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  • MIL-OSI Security: Pediatric Physician Pleads Guilty to Producing Child Pornography

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

    KANSAS CITY, Mo. – An Overland Park, Kansas, pediatric physician pleaded guilty in federal court today to using concealed video cameras to secretly record 13 child victims for the purpose of producing child pornography over a three-year period from Oct. 4, 2020, to Oct. 28, 2023. Aalbers also admitted that he was in possession of child pornography.

    Brian Michael Aalbers, 50, of Kansas City, Mo., pleaded guilty before U.S. Magistrate Judge Lajuana M. Counts to 13 counts of attempting to produce child pornography and one count of possessing child pornography.

    Aalbers, a pediatric neurologist at Overland Park Regional Hospital in Overland Park, Kan., remains in federal custody without bond.

    Concerns were received by both the FBI and the United States Attorney’s Office regarding the potential victimization of patients of Aalbers’s pediatric practice. During the investigation, it was determined there was no evidence to indicate any current or former patients were victimized by Aalbers. To protect and maintain the privacy of Aalbers’s victims, no additional information regarding the victims will be released.

    According to today’s plea agreement, Kansas City, Mo., police officers investigated a report regarding concealed video cameras that had been found on Oct. 28, 2023. A witness later contacted officers to report that Aalbers was sending suicidal text messages. Lenexa, Kan., police officers located Aalbers and transported him to a local hospital to obtain voluntary mental health treatment. The hospital took possession of two laptop computers, two iPad tablets, and a cell phone that were inside a backpack Aalbers brought with him when he entered the facility.

    Investigators obtained search warrants for those devices, as well as other cameras and electronic devices owned by Aalbers. Investigators found more than 50,000 video files associated with the hidden video cameras used by Aalbers, including more than 1,000 videos that contained pornographic depictions of the 13 child victims.

    Investigators also obtained a search warrant for Aalbers’s iCloud account, which contained 1,000 additional images and 163 additional videos of child pornography, which included videos of the identified child victims that had been produced by Aalbers.

    Under the terms of today’s plea agreement, the government and Aalbers are jointly requesting a sentence of at least 20 years, but no more than 30 years, in federal prison without parole. The sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.

    This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Maureen A. Brackett. It was investigated by the FBI, the Kansas City, Mo., Police Department, the Lenexa, Kan., Police Department, the Merriam, Kan., Police Department, and the Overland Park, Kan., Police Department, with assistance from the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the District of Kansas.

    Project Safe Childhood

    This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit http://www.usdoj.gov/psc . For more information about Internet safety education, please visit http://www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab “resources.”

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Pineville Woman Sentenced to Consecutive Life Sentences in Prison for Kidnapping, Murder of Pregnant Arkansas Woman and Unborn Child

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

    SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A Pineville, Mo., woman was sentenced in federal court today for the kidnapping and murder of a pregnant Arkansas woman and her victim’s unborn child.

    Amber Waterman, 44, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Stephen R. Bough to consecutive life sentences in federal prison without parole.

    On July 30, 2024, Amber Waterman pleaded guilty to one count of kidnapping resulting in death and one count of thereby causing the death of a child in utero. Waterman admitted that she kidnapped Ashley Bush in order to claim her unborn child, Valkyrie Willis, as her own. Waterman transported Ashley Bush from Maysville, Ark., to Pineville. The kidnapping resulted in the deaths of both Ashley Bush and Valkyrie Willis.

    Her husband, Jamie Waterman, 44, pleaded guilty today before U.S. Magistrate Judge David P. Rush to one count of being an accessory after the fact to the kidnapping resulting in death. Jamie Waterman admitted that he knew Amber Waterman had kidnapped Bush, causing the death of her unborn child, and provided assistance in order to hinder or prevent the apprehension, trial, and punishment of Amber Waterman.

    Amber Waterman, using a false name, contacted Bush, who was approximately 31 weeks pregnant, via Facebook. Amber Waterman pretended to help Bush obtain employment, suggesting she had a job opportunity for her. That prompted an in-person meeting between the two women on Oct. 28, 2022, at the Gravette, Ark., public library. They agreed to meet again on Oct. 31, 2022.

    On Oct. 31, 2022, at roughly 11:45 a.m., Bush met Amber Waterman at the Handi-Stop convenience store in Maysville, Ark. Under the pretext that Amber Waterman was taking her to meet a supervisor to further discuss employment, Bush got into a truck driven by Amber Waterman. Amber Waterman then kidnapped and abducted Bush, driving her from Maysville to the Waterman residence in Pineville.

    According to court documents, Amber Waterman led Jamie Waterman to Bush’s body. Jamie Waterman assisted in hiding and disposing of the body.

    At about 5 p.m. on Oct. 31, 2022, first responders reported to the Longview store in Pineville for an emergency call of a baby who was not breathing. Amber Waterman admitted that she claimed to first responders that she had given birth to the child in the truck while on the way to the hospital. But in reality, she admitted, the child was Bush’s child, who died in utero, as a result of Amber Waterman’s kidnapping that resulted in the death of Bush.

    An autopsy indicated that Bush died as a result of penetrating trauma of the torso and her death was classified as a homicide.

    Under federal statutes, Jamie Waterman is subject to a sentence of up to 15 years in federal prison without parole. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.

    This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Stephanie L. Wan and James J. Kelleher. It was investigated by the FBI, the Benton County, Ark., Sheriff’s Department, and the McDonald County, Mo., Sheriff’s Department in conjunction with the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Western District of Arkansas and the Benton County, Ark., Prosecuting Attorney’s Office.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: International justice – France presents François Alabrune’s candidacy for judge at the International Court of Justice in 2026 (2027-2036 term) (21 Oct. 2024)

    Source: Republic of France in English
    The Republic of France has issued the following statement:

    After carrying out the consultations required by the Statute of the International Court of Justice, on October 14, the French national group in the Permanent Court of Arbitration designated François Alabrune as the French candidate in the election for judges of the International Court of Justice, which will take place in November 2026.

    France supports François Alabrune’s candidacy. A former legal advisor at the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs who is currently serving as France’s ambassador to the Netherlands, he has recognized expertise in international law and meets all the criteria of rigor, independence, impartiality and integrity required to carry out the duties of a judge of the International Court of Justice.

    France’s commitment to the International Court of Justice is longstanding and unwavering. The ICJ’s contribution to international peacekeeping and security is more vital than ever. Established by the UN Charter, the ICJ is the UN’s most important judicial body; its duty is to settle, in accordance with international law, legal disputes submitted to it by States and to give advisory opinions on legal questions referred to it by authorized UN bodies and specialized agencies.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI: Stilwell Will Vote in Favor of Proposal to Sell IF Bancorp – UPDATE

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, Oct. 21, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Stilwell Activist Investments, L.P. (together with its affiliates, “Stilwell”), one of the largest stockholders of IF Bancorp, Inc. (“IROQ” or the “Company”) (NASDAQ: IROQ), today issued the following statement in connection with the Company’s upcoming annual meeting of stockholders scheduled to be held on November 25, 2024 (the “Annual Meeting”), at which stockholders will vote on a number of matters, including Stilwell’s non-binding proposal requesting a sale of the Company (the “Proposal”), submitted pursuant to Rule 14a-8 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended:

    IF Bancorp – Chronically Disappointing.

    Based on chronic underperformance and the likelihood of continued underperformance, we intend to vote FOR the Proposal, copied directly below, at the upcoming Annual Meeting.

    Proposal: RESOLVED, that the stockholders of IF Bancorp, Inc. (the “Company” or “IROQ”) hereby recommend that the Board of Directors take all necessary steps to promptly effectuate a sale of the Company.

    As set forth in our Supporting Statement included in IROQ’s proxy statement filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on October 16, 2024, we believe that the returns on the Company’s assets have been subpar for many years and that IROQ stockholders would be best served if the Company and its assets were sold at the earliest opportunity for the highest price available.

    Although our proposal is non-binding, we believe it provides a referendum for IROQ stockholders to express their views on the status quo and that it would be incumbent upon the Board of Directors to seriously consider such views if a majority of stockholders support this Proposal at the Annual Meeting.

    Investor Contact:
    Megan Parisi
    (787) 985-2194
    mparisi@stilwellgroup.com

    PLEASE NOTE: THIS IS NOT A SOLICITATION OF AUTHORITY TO VOTE YOUR PROXY. DO NOT SEND US YOUR PROXY CARD. STILWELL IS NOT ASKING FOR YOUR PROXY CARD AND CANNOT AND WILL NOT ACCEPT PROXY CARDS IF SENT. STILWELL IS NOT ABLE TO VOTE YOUR PROXY, NOR DOES THIS COMMUNICATION CONTEMPLATE SUCH AN EVENT.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Largest Public Sector Labor Unions Unite to Get Out the Vote in Battleground States

    Source: American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees Union

    SEIU, NEA, AFT and AFSCME launch joint volunteer canvassing effort two weeks before Presidential election

    WASHINGTON, DC — The presidents of the nation’s largest public service labor unions — April Verrett of the Service Employees International Union (SEIU), Becky Pringle of the National Education Association (NEA), Randi Weingarten of the AFT, and Lee Saunders of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) — today announced a coordinated, multi-state voter outreach initiative to turn out voters in support of Harris-Walz in key battleground states. This massive effort, launching October 19 in Detroit, underscores the impact working people will have in determining the outcome of the 2024 election. 

    Following the October 19 launch, union leaders will host a series of rallies and statewide canvasses across targeted states including two rallies featuring all four union presidents in Atlanta on October 27, and Philadelphia on November 2. Following these rallies, thousands of union member volunteers from all four organizations will engage in an intensive door-to-door canvassing campaign, connecting with potential voters on issues critical to working families. 

    This joint action represents a significant escalation of labor’s political engagement, with the unions pooling resources and mobilizing their combined membership of several million workers. 

    and includes people of all backgrounds working across the public service – as nurses, child care providers, sanitation workers, first responders, teachers, education support professionals and higher education workers, among others.

    The joint campaign aims to mobilize an unprecedented number of workers across battleground states.

    “In an election this close, it’s all going to come down to turnout,” said April Verrett, President of SEIU. “That’s why our get-out-the-vote efforts are going to make the difference. We’re going to have our members and leaders on the ground in every battleground state from now until Election Day, ensuring every voice is heard and every vote is counted.”

    “Union members are mobilizing with a new level of energy, because we know what’s at stake,” said AFSCME President Lee Saunders. “Kamala Harris and Tim Walz have a vision for working people that will move us forward, lower rising costs and protect our freedoms. Meanwhile, the other side wants to take away our voice on the job. That’s the choice before working people, and that’s why we’re going to make sure that we mobilize our communities to get out the vote.”

    “The 3-million strong National Education Association is proud to partner with our union siblings to ensure working families know there is only one pro-union, pro-public education ticket: the Harris-Walz ticket,” said NEA President Becky Pringle. “Educators and union members across the country are fired up to elect Kamala Harris and Tim Walz, the leaders we need to deliver a new way forward for America. Vice President Harris and Governor Walz are tireless champions for students and educators, who will work to support strong public schools, expand school-based mental health services, ensure no student is hungry, and create good union jobs for middle class families. As some of the most trusted people in every community, NEA members are knocking on doors, making phone calls, and talking to their neighbors and friends about voting for Kamala Harris and Tim Walz, along with other pro-public education champions up and down the ballot.”

    “Kamala Harris and Tim Walz believe in the promise of America and will spend their time solving problems, not sowing fear, so every American can partake in that promise,” said AFT President Randi Weingarten. “As Donald Trump and JD Vance plan to cut taxes for billionaires, raise the retirement age and gut Medicare, Harris and Walz will crack down on price gouging, make it easier to afford a home, extend Medicare to help the Sandwich Generation and fight for public education. But it’s not just what we can gain, it’s also what we will lose with Trump and Vance: our democracy, our freedoms, our public schools, our right to have a union, a vote and a voice. Extending the ladder of opportunity or destroying it. Union members get this. And that’s why we will fight every hour of every day for the next fortnight to get out the vote to elect candidates who proudly stand for freedom, democracy and opportunity. Remember the chaos, lies and division of the Trump era? That was our dark past and we can’t let it be our future. Harris and Walz will turn the page.”

    Each union has invested significantly in GOTV programs and media outreach, across TV and streaming platforms to support the Harris-Walz ticket and worker-friendly candidates in House, Senate,gubernatorial, and other down-ballot races.

    The impact of union households on elections in key battleground states cannot be overstated. In 2020, 21% of votes cast in Michigan were from union households, representing approximately one-fifth of the electorate. The same is true for Pennsylvania and Wisconsin, where union households accounted for 18% and 13% of votes cast, respectively.

    Unions are currently enjoying a level of popularity not seen since the 1960s. This resurgence is rooted in workers’ belief in the power of collective action to transform the economy into one that works for all. As the election approaches, it’s crucial for voters to hear from real people about the issues that matter most to working families.

    By joining forces, these unions are not just amplifying their individual voices but creating a unified front to advocate for the rights and well-being of millions of workers across the nation.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: Fleet Readiness Center Southeast’s Jacksonville detachment establishes fiber optics repair capability

    Source: United States Navy

    Fleet Readiness Center Southeast (FRCSE) Detachment Jacksonville has completed certification to become the first intermediate-level (I-level) fiber optics Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) maintenance facility in the Navy.

    Currently, the detachment supports the P-8 Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft. However, the certification underscores an opportunity for FRCSE to enhance operational readiness throughout the NAVAIR domain.

    The Miniature/Micro-miniature Electronics Repair and Module Test and Repair (2M/MTR) fiber optics work center is now equipped with a high-resolution optical time domain reflectometer (HROTDR) to test and analyze fiber optics cables. The HROTDR uses a laser to determine bends, breaks and other faults in a fiber cable. The team uses the HROTDR to find issues and fabricate new cables to meet engineering drawings and specifications.

    The certification process began approximately two years ago after FRCSE’s P-8 Fleet Support Team (FST) noticed a correlation between damaged fiber optic network cables, decreased mission-capable aircraft and expensive, timely turnaround times using contracted repair organizations.

    “Many P-8 aircraft were down because of simple and straightforward fiber optics repairs,” said Alex Garcia, an FRCSE P-8A FST electrical engineer. “With the right training and certification, the team knew that we could do much quicker and cost-effective work.”

    Recognizing the need to conduct this work internally, engineers mapped the process and established local engineering specifications, a required document that authorizes I-level work and provides instructions on fiber optic cable fabrication, support, and required consumables.

    “Given that NAVAIR didn’t have an established fiber optic program, certification agents were not an option,” said Aviation Electronics Technician 1st Class Michael Parker. “During our discussions on possible certification avenues, we learned that NAVSEA (Naval Sea Systems Command) had an existing program. The team recognized that the most effective way forward was to seek support from NAVSEA for site certification.”

    Though NAVSEA couldn’t provide aviation-specific fiber optics repair capability, the groundwork could still be tailored to a NAVAIR program. After the 2M/MTR team contacted NAVSEA, representatives from the fiber optic test and repair (FOTR) program from Naval Surface Warfare Center (NSWC) responded by traveling to Naval Air Station (NAS) Jacksonville to conduct the certification process, which took only a few days.

    “We confirmed an adequate amount of appropriately trained fiber optic technicians, the required NAVAIR authorized test equipment and tooling essential to repair or manufacture 95 percent of the potential fiber optic issues across various aircraft frames,” said Richard Scott, the FOTR certification agent with NSWC, Dahlgren division. “This effort resulted in FRSCE becoming the first NAVAIR activity to obtain its FOTR certification.”

    After completing certification, KITCO Fiber Optics, a civilian company, provided two weeks of hands-on training, which took place aboard NAS Jacksonville.

    During the two-year timeline, from establishment to certification and training, the team has streamlined repairs, reducing fiber optics turnaround times from six months to just a few days.  

    The work center at Detachment Jacksonville is also helping to establish fiber optics work centers globally with footprints in Whidbey Island, Wash.; Misawa, Japan; Sigonella, Sicily; Bahrain and afloat on aircraft intermediate maintenance departments worldwide. The current workload is helping support readiness throughout the fleet and prepares FRCSE to meet advancing technological requirements.

    About Fleet Readiness Center Southeast 

     Fleet Readiness Center Southeast (FRCSE) is Northeast Florida and Southeast Georgia’s largest maintenance, repair, overhaul and technical services provider, employing approximately 5,000 civilian, military and contract workers. With annual revenue exceeding $1 billion, the organization serves as an integral part of the greater U.S. Navy, Naval Air Systems Command, and Commander, Fleet Readiness Centers by maintaining the combat airpower for America’s military forces.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: MSF temporarily suspends activities in Djibo, Burkina Faso

    Source: Médecins Sans Frontières –

    Geneva – Faced with ongoing security challenges that threaten the ability to carry out activities in Djibo, Burkina Faso, Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) has made the difficult decision to temporarily suspend our humanitarian response in the city. This decision prioritises the safety of our staff, and allows us to reassess working conditions, given the increasing difficulty of providing humanitarian medical assistance. MSF’s medical teams remain committed to continuing their efforts and maintaining a presence in other regions where we operate, to provide medical care to communities in need across Burkina Faso.

    MSF teams have been in close contact with local authorities, informing them of the reasons behind this suspension of activities. In November 2023 and again in July 2024, MSF offices, Ministry of Health-supported medical facilities, and water distribution sites were repeatedly targeted by gunfire. Tragically, a child was killed after being hit by a bullet near a water distribution point in September 2023.

    Four buildings still bear visible bullet holes, medical facilities have been set on fire, water distribution points vandalised, and our ability to supply the area by road has been severely restricted. These attacks have placed vital medical assistance and access to safe drinking water at serious risk for those impacted by the ongoing security crisis. As a result, we have been forced to significantly scale back our capacity to protect both patients and staff and we have now suspended activities altogether.

    This suspension comes during a particularly painful time for MSF. On 2 September, we were deeply saddened to learn of the tragic death of one of our team members in Djibo under unknown circumstances. A 37-year-old father of 10, he had joined MSF in 2020. Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones. MSF offers its deepest condolences and is working to understand the circumstances surrounding his death.

    In Burkina Faso, local communities are the primary victims of insecurity and violence. As a neutral and impartial medical organisation, our priority remains providing humanitarian medical assistance. Caught in the crossfire, people have seen their living conditions deteriorate rapidly, and humanitarian aid is essential for their survival. MSF calls for the protection of healthcare facilities, displaced people, and humanitarian missions.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Company Fined $125,000 for Workplace Injury

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on October 21, 2024

    On October 10, 2024, Bakke Contracting Ltd. pleaded guilty in Moose Jaw Provincial Court to one violation of The Occupational Health and Safety Regulations, 2020.

    The company was fined for contravening clause 3-1 (a) of the regulations (being an employer at a place of employment, fail to provide and maintain of a plant, systems of work and working environments that ensure, as far as is reasonably practicable, the health and safety and welfare at work of the employer’s workers, resulting in a serious injury to a worker). As a result, the Court imposed a fine of $89,285.71 with a surcharge of $35,714.29, for a total amount of $125,000.

    Four other charges were withdrawn.

    The charges stemmed from an incident that occurred on February 20, 2023, near Brownlee, Saskatchewan when a worker was seriously injured when they fell from an elevated platform.

    -30-

    For more information, contact:

    Shane Seilman
    Labour Relations and Workplace Safety
    Regina
    Phone: 306-520-2705
    Email: shane.seilman2@gov.sk.ca

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Residents invited to have their say on homelessness in the city

    Source: City of Stoke-on-Trent

    Published: Monday, 21st October 2024

    A review has been launched in Stoke-on-Trent to help identify what more needs to be done to support the city’s most vulnerable residents.

    The city council is carrying out the important piece of work to help it understand the current and likely future state of homelessness in the city and identify the prevention measures which need to be in place for residents who may become homeless.

    The review forms part of the council’s ongoing commitment to support the city’s most in-need residents and ensuring everybody has a decent place to call home.

    Councillor Chris Robinson, cabinet member for housing and planning, said: “We have made some really positive progress, so much so that we are actually the best performing local authority in the West Midlands for preventing and relieving homelessness, for the fifth year in a row.

    “Despite all of our hard work, and the support from our partners, homelessness and rough sleeping have increased in the city over the years, in line with the national picture.

    “Through this review we want to develop new and innovative approaches to preventing and relieving homelessness in the city, especially focusing on residents who are at risk of experiencing the most harmful outcomes.

    “So, whether you have personal experience, know someone who has or are just interested in helping us to improve things, we would like to hear from you.”

    The Homelessness Act 2002 requires all local housing authorities to carry out a review of homelessness every five years, and use the findings to publish a strategy setting out how it will prevent and reduce homelessness and provide support to those affected by it.

    During the lifetime of the 2020-2025 Homelessness and Rough Sleeping Strategy, the city council has achieved many positive outcomes including;

    • the launch of a new Homelessness Hub in Hanley;
    • the creation of 74-new bed spaces through various rough sleeping programmes;
    • the implementation of the Changing Futures programme for people with complex needs;
    • a range of new measures to improve access to the private-rented sector;
    • the introduction of a Pre-Eviction Protocol within supported housing providers;
    • the commission of the new Homeless Healthcare Service which provides medical provision to the homeless community;
    • the recruitment of several new specialist members of staff;
    • and the award of around £20 million of funding for new rough sleeping initiatives.

    Residents are now being invited to submit their views about homelessness and rough sleeping in the city by Sunday 24 November by visiting http://www.stoke.gov.uk/homelessreview and filling in the online form.

    All of the feedback gathered from the Homelessness and Rough Sleeping Review will be considered in the development of the city council’s next Homelessness and Rough Sleeping Strategy which will be launched next year.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: H.R. 8512, Intelligence Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025

    Source: US Congressional Budget Office

    Categories24/7 OSI, MIL-OSI, United States Government, US Congressional, US Congressional Budget Office

    By Fiscal Year, Millions of Dollars

    2025

    2025-2029

    2025-2034

    Direct Spending (Outlays)

    *

    *

    *

    Revenues

    *

    *

    *

    Increase or Decrease (-) in the Deficit

    *

    *

    *

    Spending Subject to Appropriation (Outlays)

    508

    667

    not estimated

    Increases net direct spending in any of the four consecutive 10-year periods beginning in 2035?

    *

    Statutory pay-as-you-go procedures apply?

    Yes

    Mandate Effects

    Increases on-budget deficits in any of the four consecutive 10-year periods beginning in 2035?

    *

    Contains intergovernmental mandate?

    No

    Contains private-sector mandate?

    No

    * = between -$500,000 and $500,000.
    The bill would
    Estimated budgetary effects would mainly stem from

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Government appeals to all sectors of community to support seasonal influenza vaccination programmes

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Government today (October 21) appeals to all members of the public, especially priority groups, to timely receive seasonal influenza vaccination (SIV). The Government has made special arrangements to facilitate priority groups (including school children) to receive SIV through various SIV programmes.

    Latest statistics on schools joining SIV programmes

         The 2024/25 SIV Programmes started on September 26. At present, around 870 kindergartens and child care centres (80 per cent), 620 primary schools (93 per cent) and 400 secondary schools (79 per cent) have joined the SIV School Outreach Programme (SIVSOP). As of October 20, 2024, 380 schools have completed the first dose vaccination and more than 77 800 students have received SIV under School Outreach Programmes.

    Flexible arrangements on SIV school outreach vaccination services in season 2024/25

         The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) has been promoting SIV in schoolchildren, particularly young children in child-care centres and kindergartens, and optimising the vaccination programmes in response to the feedback from schools and parents.

         To boost the SIV coverage rate among schoolchildren, special arrangements have been made under the SIVSOP this year to offer a more flexible choice of vaccine options for kindergartens and child-care centres. Kindergartens and child-care centres can choose to provide both injectable inactivated influenza vaccines (IIV) and live attenuated influenza vaccines (i.e. nasal vaccines) (LAIV) at the same or different outreach vaccination activities. Among the kindergartens and child-care centres participating in SIVSOP, 246 schools will offer LAIV, ten schools will offer both IIV and LAIV, and the rest will offer IIV. As a pilot scheme, LAIV is also provided to selected primary and secondary schools which indicated their preference for LAIV earlier this year. So far, two primary schools and four secondary schools have joined the pilot scheme. The Department of Health (DH) will continue to monitor and review the arrangement as appropriate.

         Alternatively, schools can also invite doctors to arrange outreach service for injectable IIV and/or nasal LAIV at their campus under the Vaccination Subsidy Scheme School Outreach.

    Ongoing promotion of SIV uptake amongst school children

         The DH has invited all schools in Hong Kong through the Education Bureau (EDB) to participate in the SIVSOP. Upon commencement of the 2024/25 SIV Programmes, the DH has reached out to non-participating schools one by one to understand their difficulties, offer necessary assistance and facilitate them to participate in the programmes. The DH has also liaised with the EDB to issue appeal letters again to the School Heads Association of Kindergartens/Child-Care Centres to promote SIV uptake amongst young children. The CHP spokesman calls on those schools that have yet to join the outreach vaccination programmes to enrol as soon as possible to seize the optimum timing for vaccination and do their part to provide the best protection for schoolchildren.

         Early childhood educators are also important points of contact with young school children and their parents. The DH has met a number of early childhood education and parent-teacher associations, as well as relevant medical associations to promote SIV among young children. The DH urges early childhood educators to join hands in appealing the parents to arrange for their children to participate in SIV, and at the same time to play their part in educating parents on the importance of vaccination to encourage more young school children to get vaccinated. With increased vaccination coverage, the protection of children could be strengthened and their risk of severe illness and death after contracting influenza could also be reduced.

         “Surveillance data up to October 20 showed a total of 34 severe paediatric influenza-associated complication and death cases as recorded by the CHP this year, which is comparable with 41 cases in the pre-COVID-19 era in 2019. Among these 34 cases, 25 (74 per cent) did not receive influenza vaccine, illustrating the importance of SIV,” a CHP spokesperson said.

         A range of health education materials on influenza prevention (including webpage, press releases, pamphlets, and FAQs) has been produced by the DH and disseminated through various channels, especially those parenting media. The DH will continue to maintain close communication with stakeholders (including doctors, schools and other relevant Government Departments). For the latest information, please refer to the CHP’s influenza page and Vaccination Schemes page.     

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Industrial action affecting Perth and Kinross schools

    Source: Scotland – City of Perth

    We are pleased to say several schools can open tomorrow or on other days this week. Where available we are providing information for the rest of this week to help parents and carers with their plans.

    However, please note the situation at each school may change on a daily basis. We intend to provide updates at 1pm each day for parents and carers on social media and through our website. Our School closures page will also be updated every day.

    Fairview School is closed. Intensive Support Provision (ISP) is also closed unless otherwise stated. Connections is closed but Navigate will be open.

    On Tuesday October 22 all secondaries will be open but St John’s Academy (Secondary) and Community School of Auchterarder are only open to pupils in S4 and S6.
     
    Crieff High School will be able to offer ISP for senior phase pupils only.

    Breadalbane is able to provide ISP to primary and secondary pupils but ELC is only open to three and four-year-olds.
     

    Primary Schools – OPEN

    Abernyte

    Blair Atholl

    Collace

    Dunning

    Forgandenny

    Glendelvine

    Glenlyon

    Kinloch Rannoch

    Portmoak

    Ruthvenfield

    St Dominic’s

    Primary Schools PARTIALLY OPEN

    Abernethy –  primary open, ELC closed

    Aberuthven – closed Monday and Fridays but open Tuesday to Thursday

    Alyth -primary open,  ELC closed

    Arngask – primary open, ELC closed

    Auchtergaven – primary open, ELC closed

    Blackford – open to P6 and P7 only. Open to P4 and P5 on Wednesdays.

    Braco – primary open, ELC closed        

    Comrie – primary open, ELC closed

    Craigie – primary open, ELC closed

    Fossoway – open Tuesday and Wednesday only

    Guildtown – primary open, ELC closed

    Invergowrie – closed Tuesday but open Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. ELC will remain closed all week.

    Kenmore – open Wednesday only

    Kinnoull – closed Tuesday, open Wednesday, Thursday and Friday

    Logiealmond – open Thursday and Friday only

    Luncarty – primary open,, ELC closed

    Methven – P1 and P2 only. ELC open.

    Moncreiffe – school closed ELC open

    Primary Schools CLOSED

    Balbeggie

    Burrelton

    Cleish

    Coupar Angus

    Crieff

    Dunbarney

    Goodlyburn

    Goodlyburn COPECC

    Grandtully

    Inchture

    Inch View

    Kettins

    Kinross

    Kirkmichael

    Letham

    Logierait

    Longforgan

    Milnathort

    Murthly

    Newhill

    Oakbank

    Our Lady’s

    Pitcairn

    Rattray

    Riverside

    RDM

    Royal School of Dunkeld

    St Madoe’s

    St Ninian’s Episcopal

    St Stephen’s

    Stanley

    Tulloch

    Viewlands

    Community School of Auchterarder (primary)

    St John’s Academy (primary)

    Pitlochry (primary)

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Hasta 41.000 millones de dólares de la financiación climática del Banco Mundial no aparecen en los balances

    Source: Oxfam –

    De acuerdo con un nuevo informe de Oxfam publicado hoy con motivo de las Reuniones Anuales del FMI y del Banco Mundial que se celebrarán en Washington D. C., hasta 41 000 millones de dólares de la financiación climática del Banco Mundial —cerca de un 40 % del financiamiento climático total desembolsado por la institución financiera durante los últimos siete años— no figuran en los balances debido a prácticas de registro deficientes.

    Una auditoría de Oxfam de la cartera de financiación climática del Banco Mundial de 2017-2023 ha evidenciado que se ha perdido el rastro de entre 24 000 y 41 000 millones de dólares durante el tiempo transcurrido entre la aprobación y la clausura de los proyectos.

    No hay registros públicos claros que muestren a dónde ha ido a parar este dinero o de qué forma se ha usado, de forma que es imposible evaluar su impacto. Tampoco está claro si estos fondos se han invertido en iniciativas climáticas con el objetivo de ayudar a países de renta media-baja a proteger a la población de los efectos de la crisis climática e invertir en energías limpias.

    «El Banco Mundial no pierde ocasión para alardear de los miles de millones que destina a la lucha contra la crisis climática, pero esas cifras se basan en sus planes de inversión, no en lo que realmente invierte una vez un proyecto se pone en marcha», declara Kate Donald, directora de la oficina de Oxfam Internacional en Washington D. C. «Es como pedir a tu doctora que evalúe tu dieta a partir de tu lista de la compra, sin comprobar nunca lo que realmente termina en tu nevera.»

    El Banco Mundial es el principal financiador climático multilateral, representando el 52 % del flujo total de fondos de los bancos multilaterales de desarrollo en conjunto.

    La financiación climática estará en el centro del debate en la COP29, que este año se celebrará en Azerbaiyán, y en la que los países negociarán un nuevo objetivo mundial de financiación climática: el Nuevo Objetivo Colectivo Cuantificado (NCQG, por sus siglas en inglés). Activistas de la lucha contra el cambio climático exigen que los países del norte global destinen a los países del sur global un mínimo de 5 billones de dólares anuales en financiación pública «como anticipo de su deuda climática» con sus pueblos y comunidades, dado que estos países son los menos responsables de la emergencia climática, pero los más afectados. Oxfam advierte que, en esta coyuntura crítica, la falta de trazabilidad de los gastos podría minar la confianza en los esfuerzos globales en materia de financiación climática.

    «La financiación climática es escasa y, sí, sabemos que es difícil de proveer. Pero, ¿no monitorear cómo o dónde se invierte realmente el dinero? No se trata simplemente de un descuido burocrático; es una quiebra esencial de la confianza que pone en riesgo los avances que debemos lograr en la COP29. El Banco Mundial debe actuar como si nuestro futuro dependiera de abordar la emergencia climática, porque así es», afirma Donald.

    La investigación de Oxfam revela que incluso obtener información básica sobre cómo el Banco Mundial gestiona la financiación climática fue laborioso y difícil.

    «Tuvimos que desgranar grandes cantidades de informes complejos e incompletos e, incluso entonces, los datos contenían lagunas e incoherencias. Es alarmante que esta información sea de tan difícil acceso y comprensión. No debería hacer falta un equipo de investigadores profesionales para saber cómo se están invirtiendo miles de millones de dólares destinados a la acción climática. Esta información debería ser transparente y accesible para todo el mundo, sobre todo para las comunidades a quienes tiene que beneficiar la financiación climática», señaló Donald.
     

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI: EverCommerce Announces Date of Third Quarter 2024 Earnings Call

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DENVER, Oct. 21, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — EverCommerce Inc. (NASDAQ: EVCM), a leading provider of SaaS solutions for service SMBs, will report its third quarter 2024 financial results after the U.S. financial markets close on Tuesday, November 12, 2024.

    Management will host a conference call on Tuesday, November 12 at 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time / 3:00 p.m. Mountain Time to discuss the Company’s financial results and provide a business update. Please visit the “Investor Relations” page of the Company’s website (https://investors.evercommerce.com/) for both telephonic and webcast access to this call; a replay will be archived on the website as well.

    About EverCommerce

    EverCommerce (Nasdaq: EVCM) is a leading service commerce platform, providing vertically-tailored, integrated SaaS solutions that help more than 690,000 global service-based businesses accelerate growth, streamline operations, and increase retention. Its modern digital and mobile applications create predictable, informed, and convenient experiences between customers and their service professionals. With its EverPro, EverHealth, and EverWell brands specializing in Home, Health, and Wellness service industries, EverCommerce provides end-to-end business management software, embedded payment acceptance, marketing technology, and customer experience applications. Learn more at EverCommerce.com.

    Investor Contact:
    Brad Korch
    SVP and Head of Investor Relations
    720-796-7664
    ir@evercommerce.com

    Press Contact:
    Jeanne Trogan
    VP of Corporate Communications
    512-705-1293
    press@evercommerce.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Andes Announces the AndesCore™ 46-Series Family and the 3rd generation Vector Processor AX46MPV with Matrix Extension

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Hsinchu, Taiwan, Oct. 21, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Andes Technology, a leading supplier of high efficiency, low-power 32/64-bit RISC-V processor cores and Founding Premier member of RISC-V International, today announces the AndesCore™ 46-series processor family with 4 members. The first member, AX46MPV, a new 64-bit multicore superscalar vector processor IP, is the third generation of the award-winning Andes Vector core. While it maintains the same 8-stage dual-issue pipeline as its predecessor AX45MPV, it incorporates numerous new features such as dual load/store units, private L2 cache, an extended VLEN, Andes Matrix Multiply Extension, and RVA22 profile support. Except vector and matrix support, the second member, AX46MP, has the exact same features as the AX46MPV while the third member, A46MP, and fourth member, A46MPV, are the 32-bit versions of AX46MP and AX46MPV. This makes the 46-series ideal for network processors running Linux, high-performance embedded controllers requiring high memory throughput, and large-scale AI/ML applications.

    The AX46MPV enhances SpecInt2006 performance by over 15% compared to the previous generation AX45MPV, thanks to its newly designed memory subsystem. The private L2 cache significantly reduces memory latency while the dual load/store engine eliminates memory bottlenecks in memory-bound computation kernels. It supports up to 16 cores in the same cluster, featuring cache coherence and a shared L3 cache with doubled capacity of the AX45MPV. Additionally, the AX46MPV provides TrustZone-level security with ePMP and IOPMP, accompanied by a pre-integrated software solution.

    The AX46MPV introduces several enhancements for AI/ML, including longer 2048-bit vectors, new Andes Matrix Extensions to efficiently speed up GEMM performance, and greatly improved High-Bandwidth Vector Memory (HVM) interface supporting outstanding requests and out-of-order responses. A high-performance HVM controller serving up to 16 cores and DMA accesses with 64 memory banks is optional for licensing. The AX46MPV now also includes BF16 full arithmetic mode as a standard feature. Additionally, the award-winning Andes Automated Custom Extension™ (ACE) is available in the 46-series, featuring customized vector instructions (ACE_RVV) with enhanced pipeline and Streaming Port (ASP).  

    “We are thrilled to introduce the 3rd generation of the Andes Vector series, further strengthening our leadership in the AI SoC market,” said Dr. Charlie Su, President and CTO of Andes Technology. “Our NX27V and AX45MPV have been highly successful in high-performance AI SoC applications. The AX46MPV, boosted with both compute performance and memory bandwidth, is intended to bring the new-generation AI SoCs to the next level of compute density. Additionally, with enhanced capabilities in Linux, security, and AIoT, the highly configurable 46-series is a well-rounded solution with balanced performance, power, and area”

    The AndesCore™ 46-series processor IP’s, 64-bit AX64MP(V) and 32-bit A64MP(V), can be configured from one core up to 16 cores. It is to be available for lead customers in Q1 2025 through the early access program and for general customers in Q2 2025. For further information about the Andes 46 series and Vector processors, please contact Andes Technology.

    About Andes Technology

    Nineteen years in business and a founding premier member of RISC-V International, Andes is a publicly-listed company (TWSE: 6533; SIN: US03420C2089; ISIN: US03420C1099) and a leading supplier of high-performance/low-power 32/64-bit embedded processor IP solutions, and the driving force in taking RISC-V mainstream. Its V5 RISC-V CPU families range from tiny 32-bit cores to advanced 64-bit Out-of-Order processors with DSP, FPU, Vector, Linux, superscalar, functional safety and/or multi/many-core capabilities. By the end of 2023, the cumulative volume of Andes-Embedded™ SoCs has surpassed 14 billion. For more information, please visit https://www.andestech.com. Follow Andes on LinkedIn, Twitter, Bilibili and YouTube!

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Spotlight on Services: UConn Health’s Respiratory Therapists

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    This week UConn Health celebrates its 33 respiratory therapists for their vital contribution to patient care.

    In the spirit of Respiratory Care Week, Oct. 20-26, here’s a first-hand account of a second-year medical student’s experience shadowing lead respiratory therapist Sherael Stephenson.

    Shadowing an RT today was a really informative experience. One of the first things I noticed was how involved RTs are across the whole hospital. We went to the ED, to med surg, to ICU floors, and there were always a handful of patients who required respiratory therapy.

    I also noticed how skilled a respiratory therapist must be to do different procedures like suctioning, tracheal interventions, ventilation equipment, oxygen machines, etc. Not only do they have to know how to operate all these machines and devices, but they also have to have a really deep understanding of respiratory physiology.

    I was really impressed by the RT today talking about arterial blood gas levels, vital signs and their specific meanings, breathing patterns etc. She was very interactive with different members of the health care team including the CNAs, nurses and physicians/providers. I watched the RTs communicate their interventions and findings with the patient-assigned nurses as well as making recommendations to physicians.

    The RT today also shared her story about how COVID heavily impacted the field, and how emotionally draining it was to work during the pandemic. I felt so much appreciation for her and the amount of lives she saved during such a tragic time.

    I did not get a chance to witness any suctioning on the floor today but I can imagine it can be really helpful for a patient who has increased secretions. While the procedure itself may be uncomfortable, the outcome of increased oxygen saturations and easier breathing is probably much appreciated by the patient.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Response and Recovery Efforts in Western North Carolina

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: Response and Recovery Efforts in Western North Carolina

    Response and Recovery Efforts in Western North Carolina
    mseets

    After Hurricane Helene, North Carolina continues leading a robust response and recovery with the support of federal, local, and non-profit partners.

    Helene hit North Carolina 25 days ago as the deadliest tropical storm in the state’s history. Because Governor Cooper declared a State of Emergency Declaration before the storm hit, North Carolina National Guard soldiers, swift water rescue teams, equipment and supplies were positioned in Western North Carolina to respond as soon as the storm passed. Just as this storm was unprecedented, the response that followed has been unprecedented in its size and speed.

    Key Progress and Numbers

    Today there are approximately 5,000 customers without power down from more than one million customers just after the storm. Most of the cell phone coverage that was wiped out by the storm has been restored. The NC Department of Transportation (NCDOT) has opened 789 roads of the approximately 1,200 roads that were closed as a result of the storm, which is significant considering the difficulty of making repairs in a rugged, mountainous region. NCDOT currently has approximately 2,000 employees and 900 pieces of equipment working to re-open roads that remain closed. 28 of the school districts that were closed following the storm have re-opened, with 7 still closed, two of which are scheduled to re-open this week.

    North Carolina National Guard (NCNG) soldiers and other military personnel rescued 765 people with local first responders and swift water teams rescuing hundreds more. The state has confirmed 95 fatalities and there are currently approximately 26 people still unaccounted for.

    Air Drop of Supplies and Commodities

    Because road access was limited, the state, local and federal government working with nonprofits and volunteers used a system for aerial delivery of supplies and commodities like water, food and medicine. Supplies were brought into the Asheville airport by plane and then delivered to other parts of Western North Carolina by helicopter.

    At the height of this operation, more than 30 planes and helicopters and 1,200 ground vehicles were in use. More than 27 million pounds of food and water were delivered by the state and federal government, with more being brought by non-profits and charities.

    National Guard and Military

    The response to Helene was the largest and fastest integration of U.S. military soldiers with the National Guard in North Carolina history.

    More than 3,150 Soldiers and Airmen have been working in Western North Carolina in the aftermath of the storm. Joint Task Force- North Carolina, led by the North Carolina National Guard is made up of Soldiers and Airmen from 12 different states, two different XVIII Airborne Corps units from Ft. Liberty, a unit from Ft. Campbell’s 101st Airborne Division, and numerous civilian entities working side-by-side to get the much-needed help to people in Western North Carolina.

    The Army Corps of Engineers is working with local, state and federal experts, including the EPA and the N.C. Department of Environmental Quality (NCDEQ), to assess damages, remove debris and repair water systems.

    More than 1,600 responders from 39 state and local agencies have performed 146 missions supporting the response and recovery efforts through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC).

    FEMA

    Approximately $129 million in FEMA Individual Assistance funds so far have been paid directly to people in Western North Carolina hurt by the storm and more than 207,000 people have registered for Individual Assistance. More than 6,200 people have been able to get temporary housing through FEMA’s Transitional Sheltering Assistance. More than 5,100 registrations for Small Business Administration Loans have been filed.

    Approximately 1,500 FEMA staff are in the state to help with the Western North Carolina relief effort. In addition to search and rescue and providing commodities, they have been meeting with disaster survivors in their neighborhoods and homes, in shelters, and in other areas to provide rapid access to relief resources.

    Cooper Signed Bipartisan Bill for Funding and Elections

    Just days after the storm, state legislators returned to Raleigh on October 9 to begin the process of allocating state funding for storm recovery. On October 10, Governor Cooper signed HB 149 into law as a first step in that process. In addition to initial funding, the bill also allows people in affected counties to have more options in where they return absentee ballots and gives flexibility to local election boards in impacted counties to ensure people have opportunities to vote. The 2024 election will be safe and secure, and people impacted by the storm will be able to make their voices heard.

    Governor Cooper also raised the amount of weekly unemployment payments for the thousands of people temporarily out of work. The Executive Order increasing benefits won unanimous bipartisan support from the NC Council of State.

    Misinformation and Disinformation Permeate the Response

    Governor Cooper and a bipartisan array of local, state and federal North Carolina officials have called out the intentional spread of disinformation and misinformation as detrimental to this response and recovery, leading to threats and intimidation, breeding confusion, and demoralizing storm survivors and response workers.

    On October 11, Governor Cooper responded to one of Donald Trump’s social media posts by saying, “This is a flat out lie. We’re working with all partners around the clock to get help to people. Trump’s lies and conspiracy theories have hurt the morale of first responders and people who lost everything, helped scam artists and put government and rescue workers in danger.”

    At a media briefing on October 16, Governor Cooper was asked why he believes the misinformation and disinformation have been worse after this storm compared to others. Governor Cooper explained:

    “Candidates are using people’s misery to sow chaos for their own political objectives, and it’s wrong. This is a time where we all need to pull together to help the people of Western North Carolina and it’s disappointing when candidates, knowing full well what they’re doing, are continuing this kind of disinformation filled with lies,”

    Efforts Will Continue to Ensure Long Term Recovery

    Other resources have surged into the area following the storm. $100 million in emergency funding from US Department of Transportation has been granted. NC Department of Health and Human Services, NCDEQ, Department of Motor Vehicles, NC Department of Public Instruction and many other state entities are supporting response and recovery.

    Western North Carolina has never experienced a storm like this. Recovery in mountainous terrain will require a unique, united and sustained effort that focuses on people who’ve lost everything while leaving politics at the door. With just weeks until the 2024 election, the Governor’s office urges all leaders to stick to the truth and not spread disinformation and misinformation, which only hurts the people who need help and those on the ground giving it their all to provide that help.

    ###

    Oct 21, 2024

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Thomas Tuchel: the philosophical dilemma facing the new England coach

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By John William Devine, Senior Lecturer in Ethics, Department of Sport and Exercise Sciences, Swansea University

    As the new senior head coach of the England men’s football team, Thomas Tuchel has assumed one of the most intensely scrutinised managerial roles, not only in football, but in all of sport.

    Commentary following his appointment suggests that he should expect unprecedented scrutiny. Despite superb credentials, including coaching Chelsea to Champions League victory in 2021, Tuchel’s appointment has raised anew the question of whether English players should be managed by an English manager.

    At the press conference announcing his appointment, he apologised (only partly in jest) for holding a German passport. He is the first German to be appointed to the role. Sceptics have voiced concern about whether a “foreign” manager – particularly one from the England team’s fiercest rival – could feel the requisite passion, loyalty and determination for English success. But doubts about his commitment are only the beginning – the role of England manager involves an unenviable footballing dilemma.

    The renowned American football coach Vince Lombardi made popular the sporting mantra: “Winning isn’t everything, it’s the only thing.” On the Lombardian view, performance has no value independent of its outcome. Set aside the mastery of skills, the lessons of winning and losing, forging bonds with teammates and opponents and the simple joy of play – for him, the value of sport lies in winning – and winning alone.

    On this view, the clamour for Tuchel’s predecessor, Gareth Southgate, to depart following the 2024 UEFA European Football Championship was misguided. In reaching the final of successive European championships (2020 and 2024) and the semi-final of the World Cup in 2018, Southgate brought English men’s football to its greatest height since the World Cup-winning team of 1966.

    His team comfortably outperformed the so-called “golden generation” of David Beckham, Stephen Gerrard, Frank Lampard and Wayne Rooney, which never progressed beyond the quarterfinals of a major tournament, playing for another foreign manager, Sven-Goran Ericksson. Judged by results alone, Southgate was a once in a generation England manager.

    However, the English public subscribed to a more demanding philosophy of football: “Winning is essential, but it is not enough.” Despite the team’s success, the public wanted more. They demanded not only victory, but style too.

    Southgate’s team played a conservative, defensively-minded brand of football. In Euro 2024, their passing wasn’t fluid and they created few chances on goal. Instead, they relied on a strong defence coupled with rare moments of attacking brilliance from individual players. Despite their success, Southgate became a lightning rod for criticism due to the uninspiring manner of his team’s victories.

    A philosophical dilemma

    The pursuit of victory in sport would seem, on the face of it, to be a simple proposition – play as well as you can and hope that this suffices to overcome your opponent. But playing to win is often less about playing well and more about ensuring that your opponent plays badly. It is less about executing your strengths and more about stifling the opposition.

    In happy circumstances, playing well and playing to win coincide. In such cases, an opponent’s strengths and weaknesses can largely be ignored. Athletes who are comfortably superior to their opposition (think Serena Williams, Simone Biles, or the All Blacks in their pomp) may have the luxury of ignoring their opponents’ performance. Such is their dominance that, if they play well, victory inevitably follows. However, for mere mortals – including the Three Lions – even a good day can be a losing day.

    This tension between playing well and playing to win is one that all athletes, of whatever level, must navigate. Tuchel now takes up the challenge of marrying these often opposed ideals – anything but victory is unacceptable and so too is anything but thrilling football.

    In contrast to the Lombardian obsession with winning, sport can also be seen as a vehicle for self-expression. Each sport presents athletes with a unique set of obstacles, constraints embedded in the rules coupled with challenges presented by opponents. How we respond to those obstacles can express something about us, both to ourselves and to others.

    Sporting competition can serve as a means of self-expression – a blank canvas on which athletes paint. We must decide how much we value sport as an avenue for proving athletic superiority and how much we value sport as an avenue to convey who we are and what we value. At its best, a national team’s style reflects a national footballing philosophy. But honouring our sporting identity may conflict with our desire to win.

    Winning at the highest level and playing to express the pure form of our footballing philosophy may be mutually exclusive goals for all but the most dominant teams. Tuchel must grasp both horns of this dilemma while persuading the public of his desire for English success.

    If the team’s results are anything but flawless, his commitment to the cause will be questioned. If the team’s style is unpleasing to the eye, he will be accused of misunderstanding England’s footballing identity. Who would envy him the task ahead?


    Looking for something good? Cut through the noise with a carefully curated selection of the latest releases, live events and exhibitions, straight to your inbox every fortnight, on Fridays. Sign up here.

    John William Devine does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Thomas Tuchel: the philosophical dilemma facing the new England coach – https://theconversation.com/thomas-tuchel-the-philosophical-dilemma-facing-the-new-england-coach-241836

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Video message for the COP16 Opening Ceremony on Biodiversity

    Source: United Nations – English

    ownload the video: 

    https://s3.amazonaws.com/downloads2.unmultimedia.org/public/video/evergreen/MSG+SG+/SG+8+Oct+24/3271890_MSG+SG+BIODIVERSITY+OPENING+CEREMONY+08+OCT+24.mp4

    Excellencies, friends,

    I thank the Government of Colombia for hosting this important COP:

    The COP to make peace with nature;

    And the first since countries adopted the historic Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework.
     
    That Framework is grounded in a clear truth: for humanity to thrive, nature must flourish.

    Destroying nature inflames conflict, hunger and disease;

    Fuels poverty, inequality, and the climate crisis;

    And damages sustainable development, green jobs, cultural heritage, and GDP.

    A collapse in nature’s services – such as pollination, and clean water – would see the global economy lose trillions of dollars a year – with the poorest hardest hit.

    The Global Biodiversity Framework promises to reset relations with Earth and its ecosystems.

    But we are not on track.

    Your task at this COP is to convert words into action.

    That means countries presenting clear plans that align national actions with all the Framework’s targets.

    It means agreeing a strengthened monitoring and transparency framework.

    And it means honouring promises on finance – and accelerating support to developing countries.

    We must leave Cali with significant investment in the Global Biodiversity Framework Fund, and commitments to mobilise other sources of public and private finance to deliver the Framework in full.

    And those profiting from nature must contribute to its protection and restoration.

    Developing countries are being plundered:

    Digitised DNA from biodiversity underpins scientific discoveries and economic growth. But developing countries don’t gain fairly from these advances – despite being home to extraordinary richness. 

    This COP must operationalise the mechanism that has been agreed – to ensure that when countries share genetic information, they share benefits – equitably. 

    It must engage all of society – as “La COP de la gente”

    And it must strengthen the role of Indigenous Peoples and local communities.

    Indigenous Peoples are the world’s great guardians of biodiversity; luminaries of sustainable use.

    Their knowledge and stewardship must be at the heart of biodiversity action at every level. 

    Excellencies,

    We have a plan to rescue humanity from a degraded Earth.

    I look forward to seeing you in person at the end of the COP to hear how you have delivered.

    Thank you.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI: ASUS Announces the ExpertBook P5, its First Copilot+ PC for Work, is Now Available in Canada

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    KEY POINTS

    • First ASUS Copilot+ PC for work: Powered by up to the latest Intel® Core™ Ultra 7 processor (Series 2) to deliver up to 47 NPU TOPS
    • AI-powered productivity and collaboration: ASUS AI ExpertMeet automates meeting minutes, translates subtitles, offers watermarks in conference calls
    • ASUS ExpertGuardian: Includes commercial-grade BIOS, Windows 11 Secured-core PC tech, complimentary 1-year McAfee+ Premium membership

    TORONTO, Oct. 21, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — ASUS today announces that the ExpertBook P5 (P5405), a groundbreaking Copilot+ PC1 designed to empower modern professionals is now available in Canada, starting October 21st. Available through the ASUS Store, Costco, and select retailers, it comes in four configurations starting at CA$1,299.99.

    Powered by up to the latest Intel® Core™ Ultra 7 processor (Series 2) with 47 NPU TOPS2, the laptop delivers up to 3X the AI performance boost compared to the previous generation. Featuring ASUS AI ExpertMeet, this AI-driven powerhouse streamlines workflows and enhances collaboration. Its sleek, durable aluminum chassis houses a stunning 2.5K 144 Hz display, delivering exceptional visuals. With a 1.29 kg3 feather-light design, robust security features, and a focus on sustainability, ExpertBook P5 is the perfect companion for on-the-go professionals seeking peak performance and efficiency.

    The future of work

    Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, ExpertBook P5 boasts a premium aluminum design that seamlessly blends aesthetics and ergonomics. Despite its lightweight construction, at just 1.29 kg, P5 offers exceptional durability — meeting the exacting US MIL-STD 810H military standard. Its thoughtfully designed workspace, featuring conveniently placed function keys and a spacious mouse area, optimizes productivity and comfort during video conferences and multitasking. Engineered with the ASUS ExpertCool thermal structure, a newly-enhanced cooling design, the ExpertBook P5 ensures consistent, optimal cooling whether the lid is open or closed, guaranteeing peak performance even during extended usage. It is a productivity powerhouse designed to elevate professional performance, empowering users to achieve their full potential.

    Forwarding the ASUS commitment to sustainability, ExpertBook P5 also represents a significant advancement in sustainable technology. This intelligent product has significantly enhanced its circularity by 10% to reach 50%, utilizing Circular Transition Indicators (CTI) for performance measurement. By incorporating recycled materials and a modular design, ExpertBook P5 directly addresses the pressing issue of e-waste.

    Experience the power of AI in meetings

    ASUS ExpertBook P5 benefits from the all-new ASUS AI ExpertMeet, an on-device AI assistant that transforms meetings into productive and engaging experiences, leverages advanced AI capabilities to enhance audio, video, and collaboration features, ensuring seamless communication and capturing every important detail.

    AI ExpertMeet offers a comprehensive suite of AI-powered features to elevate every meeting experience. AI Meeting Minutes accurately captures and transcribe meetings, generating detailed summaries and identifying key points from multiple speakers. The AI Translated Subtitles feature provides translations, ensuring seamless communication across languages. Additionally, the Watermark function allows video calls to be personalized with customizable business card information and screen watermarks for added security and professionalism. All powered by on-device intelligence, personal data remains secure, allowing users to focus on ideas without privacy concerns – empower teams with the latest AI technology and unlocking the full potential of virtual collaborations.

    ASUS ExpertGuardian: the ultimate guardian for confidential data

    ASUS ExpertBook P5‘s robust security arsenal safeguards critical data. Engineered with a commercial-grade and NIST SP 800-155-compliant BIOS, it provides a foundational layer of protection against firmware attacks. Coupled with Windows 11 Secured-core PC technologies, the ExpertBook P5 creates a fortified defense against software vulnerabilities. To ensure long-term security, ASUS offers a comprehensive five-year support4 for BIOS and driver updates, safeguarding the system against emerging threats.

    Complementing this robust hardware-based security, ExpertBook P5 includes a complimentary one-year McAfee+ Premium membership. This comprehensive security suite leverages McAfee Smart AI™ for advanced threat detection, including AI-powered deepfake detection to protect against sophisticated social engineering attacks. Additionally, email scam protection provides an extra layer of defense against phishing attempts.

    ASUS Business Support

    Understanding the critical needs of modern professionals, ASUS Business Support is not merely a warranty — it’s a comprehensive service package that includes on-site repairs, dedicated technical assistance and 24/7 customer support. This robust support framework ensures that every ExpertBook user experiences minimal downtime and receives personalized solutions to their technical issues.

    AVAILABILITY & PRICING

    The ASUS ExpertBook P5 is available in 4 different configurations starting from October 21st, 2024.

    The 4 specifications are available on the ASUS Store, ranging from CA$1,299 to CA$1,799 both for B2B and B2C customers.

    The ExpertBook P5 (P5404) with an Intel Core Ultra 5 processor 226V, 512 GB M.2 PCIe® 4.0 2280 SSD, an upgradeable M.2 2230 SSD slot, 16 GB LPDDR5X-8533 RAM and Windows 11 Home is now available starting from CA$1,299 on the ASUS Store and Costco.

    An additional version with Windows 11 Pro is available on the ASUS Store and selected retailers for CA$1,399.

    The ExpertBook P5 (P5404) with an Intel Core Ultra 7 processor 258V, 1 TB M.2 PCIe® 4.0 2280 SSD, an upgradeable M.2 2230 SSD slot, 32 GB LPDDR5X-8533 RAM and Windows 11 Pro is now available starting from CA$1,799 on the ASUS Store and selected retailers.

    An additional version with Windows 11 Home will be available later starting from October 28th on the ASUS Store and selected retailers, starting from CA$1,699.

    Please contact your local ASUS representative for further information.

    NOTES TO EDITORS

    For more product photos: https://press.asus.com/media/photos/

    ExpertBook P5 Product Page: https://www.asus.com/ca-en/laptops/for-work/expertbook/expertbook-p5-p5405/

    ExpertBook P5 ASUS Store: https://shop.asus.com/ca-en/expertbook-p5-p5405.html

    ExpertBook P5 Costco: https://www.costco.ca/asus-expertbook-p5-14-in-laptop%2c-intel-core-ultra-5-226v-%E2%80%93-16gb-ram%2c-512gb-ssd%2c-intel-arc.product.4000313261.html

    ASUS Pressroom: http://press.asus.com

    ASUS Canada Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/asuscanada/

    ASUS Canada Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/asus_ca

    ASUS Canada YouTube: https://ca.asus.click/youtube

    ASUS Global X (Twitter): https://www.x.com/asus

    SPECIFICATIONS5

    ASUS ExpertBook P5 (P5405)

    Model    ExpertBook P5
    P5405CSA-P73-CB    		 ExpertBook P5
    P5405CSA-DH71-CA    		 ExpertBook P5
    P5405CSA-P53-CA    		 ExpertBook P5
    P5405CSA-CH51-CB
    Compute
    platform     		   Intel® Core™ 7 Processor 258 V 32 GB 1.8
    GHz (12 MB Cache, up to 4.8 GHz, 8 cores, 8
    Threads); Intel® AI Boost NPU up to 47    		 Intel® Core™ 5 Processor 226 V 16 GB 1.6
    GHz (8 MB Cache, up to 4.5 GHz, 8 cores, 8
    Threads); Intel® AI Boost NPU up to 40″
    Graphics    Intel® Arc™ 140 V
    GPU (16GB)    		 Intel® Arc™ 140 V
    GPU (16GB)    		 Intel® Arc™ 130 V
    GPU (8GB)”    		 Intel® Arc™ 130 V
    GPU (8GB)”
    Display    14.0″ 2560 x 1600 Anti-Glare, 100% sRGB, 400 nits
    Chassis    Color: Misty Grey
    Operating
    system     		   Windows 11 Pro Windows 11 Home Windows 11 Pro Windows 11 Home
    Main memory    32 GB LPDDR5X-
    8533 MOP    		 32 GB LPDDR5X-
    8533 MOP    		 16 GB LPDDR5X-
    8533 MOP    		 16 GB LPDDR5X-
    8533 MOP
    Storage    1 x 1 TB M.2 PCIe®
     4.0 2280 SSD (Upgradeable to 2 TB)

    1 x M.2 2230 SSD, up
    to 1 TB PCIe® 4.0
    SSD User
    upgradeable

    		 1 x 1 TB M.2 PCIe®
     4.0 2280 SSD (Upgradeable to 2 TB)

    1 x M.2 2230 SSD,
    up to 1 TB PCIe® 4.0
    SSD User
    upgradeable

    		 1 x 512 GB M.2
    PCIe® 4.0 2280 SSD (Upgradeable to 2 TB)

    1 x M.2 2230 SSD,
    up to 1 TB PCIe® 4.0
    SSD User
    upgradeable

    		 1 x 512 GB M.2
    PCIe® 4.0 2280 SSD (Upgradeable to 2 TB)

    1 x M.2 2230 SSD,
    up to 1 TB PCIe® 4.0
    SSD User
    upgradeable
    Connectivity    WiFi 6E (802.11ax) (Dual band) 2*2 + Bluetooth® 5.3 Wireless Card
    Camera    1080p FHD IR camera, Webcam Shield
    I/O ports    2X Thunderbolt™ 4, USB 3.2 Gen2, support wide range 5–20 V

    1 x USB Type-A 3.2 Gen2, support BC1.2

    1 x USB Type-A 3.2 Gen2

    1 x HDMI® 2.1

    1 x Audio combo jack

    1 x Kensington® Nano lock slot
    Keyboard    Full-size keyboard with 1.5 mm key travel; backlit, spill-resistant 78 cc
    Touchpad    ASUS ErgoSense touchpad

    Smart gesture touchpad
    Silent touchpad technology
    Audio    2 x speaker

    2 x multi-array microphone with intelliGO beam forming

    Smart amp technology

    Dolby Atmos certified”
    Battery    63 Wh, 3-cell, Li-polymer
    AC adapter    65 W non-wall mount Type-C® power jack, Input : 100–240 V AC, 50 / 60 Hz universal
    Dimensions    31.2 x 22.3 x 1.645 cm
    Weight    63 Wh battery: starting at 1299 g
    Price    CA$1,799 CA$1,699 CA$1,399 CA$1,299
    Availability    October 10th, 2024 October 28th, 2024 October 10th, 2024 October 10th, 2024
    Where to Buy    ASUS Store ASUS Store ASUS Store ASUS Store
    Costco

    About ASUS

    ASUS is a global technology leader that provides the world’s most innovative and intuitive devices, components, and solutions to deliver incredible experiences that enhance the lives of people everywhere. With its team of 5,000 in-house R&D experts, the company is world-renowned for continuously reimagining today’s technologies. Consistently ranked as one of Fortune’s World’s Most Admired Companies, ASUS is also committed to sustaining an incredible future. The goal is to create a net zero enterprise that helps drive the shift towards a circular economy, with a responsible supply chain creating shared value for every one of us.

    1 Copilot+ PC experiences are coming. Requires free updates available starting late November 2024. Timing varies by device and region. See aka.ms/copilotpluspcs.
    2 The figures are based on theoretical performance. Actual performance may vary in real-world situations.
    3 Weight may vary according to specifications
    4 Five-year support includes but not limited to OS, BIOS, driver and security-related updates. OS and BIOS security update occurs twice a year.
    5 Specifications, content and product availability are all subject to change without notice and may differ from country to country. Actual performance may vary depending on applications, usage, environment and other factors. Full specifications are available at http://www.asus.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/c90e1d1e-c22c-484f-8e7c-91a555a6f437

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Major construction completed on SR 109 in Grays Harbor County

    Source: Washington State News 2

    HOQUIAM – State Route 109 travelers saw a lot of construction over summer. After five total closures over four months between Seabrook and Hoquiam, major work to remove several fish barriers is now done. 

    “We worked very hard to complete the work as quickly and safely as possible,” said Project Engineer Ben Ford. “We’re extremely thankful for everyone’s patience and understanding during this work.”

    Removing barriers to fish under state highways is far from easy. During this important work, crews dug up the entire highway. Temporary detour routes were set up to guide travelers around each closure. 

    Workers installed large concrete structures that allow fish to swim under the highway. Once crews installed the structures, workers repaved and reopened the highway. 

    Construction crews still have some work to complete. That includes landscaping and other final details. This work will require occasional one-way alternating traffic. 

    The fish barrier removal project is a big part of the Washington State Department of Transportation’s efforts to comply with a 2013 federal court order. The order directs WSDOT to correct hundreds of outdated culverts and open hundreds of miles of habitat for salmon and steelhead.

    Real-time information on highway projects is available on the WSDOT Travel Center Map and WSDOT app. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ernst Demands Answers from SBA Over Handling of Disaster Resources

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA)
    WASHINGTON – After the Small Business Administration (SBA) claimed it has run out of funds for disaster relief, U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), the top Republican on the Senate Small Business and Entrepreneurship Committee, alongside her fellow committee members Senators Tim Scott (R-S.C.), Todd Young (R-Ind.), and James Risch (R-Idaho), demanded answers over the agency’s mismanagement of disaster resources.
    In the letter, the senators highlighted that the SBA failed to notify Congress of the need for supplemental funding ahead of time, as required by law. They also stressed how bureaucratic inefficiency was to blame for the SBA coming up short for Americans in need.
    “Under existing law, the SBA already has several reporting requirements to provide Congress with sufficient notification and information before any shortfall occurs in its disaster account. Unfortunately, the SBA failed to comply, or only partially complied, with several of these provisions and is now, at the eleventh-hour, sounding alarm bells. We must consider whether SBA’s internal decisions were the catalyst for this unfortunate situation. For example, SBA currently has more than $550 million in its disaster administrative expenses account to pay for salaries, but did not request any reprogramming to their disaster loan fund,” wrote the senators.
    “Further, during a disaster, on-the-ground staff and training is essential. Congress has long recognized the need for agencies to scale up and down during times of disaster. In light of this, the SBA has a statutorily authorized disaster cadre, which is not meant to fall below 1,000 employees,” the senators continued.
    “Based on information recently provided by the SBA in response to questions as it sought supplemental funds, it appears that this cadre may have vanished, but no one was notified. This raises stark concerns about the SBA’s ability to provide for disaster victims during the immediate aftermath of these storms and its ability to inform Congress in accordance with the law,” the senators concluded.
    Click here to view the full letter.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: OSCE strengthens inter-regional co-operation between women professionals from Central Asia and South-Eastern Europe addressing violent extremism and terrorism

    Source: Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe – OSCE

    Headline: OSCE strengthens inter-regional co-operation between women professionals from Central Asia and South-Eastern Europe addressing violent extremism and terrorism

    OSCE strengthens inter-regional co-operation between women professionals from Central Asia and South-Eastern Europe addressing violent extremism and terrorism | OSCE
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    Home Newsroom News and press releases OSCE strengthens inter-regional co-operation between women professionals from Central Asia and South-Eastern Europe addressing violent extremism and terrorism

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Governments of Canada and Quebec kick off joint public consultations for Saguenay–St. Lawrence Marine Park Expansion Project

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    Governments of Canada and Quebec kick off joint public consultations for Saguenay–St. Lawrence Marine Park Expansion Project

    October 21, 2024. – The Governments of Canada and Quebec announce that joint public consultations on the Saguenay–St. Lawrence Marine Park expansion project will be held this fall. Members of the public are invited to participate in these consultations, which are scheduled to take place from October 21 to December 13, 2024.

    These consultations are open to all interested parties. Participants will be able to learn about the project and share their opinions online beginning October 21, 2024. Members of the public will have until December 13, 2024 to express their views on the project by completing a brief online survey. Individuals or organizations who wish to submit a brief may also do so via the website.

    Five participatory events will be held in municipalities adjacent to the proposed expansion area. In each town where a consultation will take place, kiosks staffed by the marine park team will allow participants to discuss the project at their leisure and according to their areas of interest in late afternoon. An information and Q&A session will follow in the evening.

    Public participatory events:

    City                                        Location                                         Date

    Rimouski                                Théâtre du Bic                                November 4
    Rivière-du-Loup                         Hôtel Lévesque                              November 6
    Kamouraska                              Community hall                              November 7
    Saint-Irénée                                   Domaine Forget                             November 12
    Les Escoumins                              Multipurpose centre                      November 13    

    Since the announcement in March 2023 regarding their shared intention to begin working to expand the boundaries of the marine park, the two levels of government have jointly carried out targeted consultations as well as outreach with Indigenous communities in order to take into consideration scientific and local knowledge as well as the viewpoints and interests of relevant stakeholders.

    The expansion project has been presented to representatives of approximately 230 organizations, including Indigenous communities, RCMs and municipalities, business owners and NGOs on both shores of the St. Lawrence Estuary.

    These discussions have led to a proposal to expand the boundaries of the marine park. Public consultations will provide interested members of the public and organizations an opportunity to express their views on the project, especially regarding the boundaries being proposed for the expansion, the objectives pursued as well as the associated challenges and opportunities. The information gathered will allow the two governments to make a joint and well-informed decision regarding the expansion project in 2025.

    Expanding the marine park would help enhance protection for belugas, rorquals and green costal areas, in particular by including all of the beluga’s critical summer habitat in the park. The project is also an opportunity to promote discovery and educational activities related to the St. Lawrence River as well as to support the maintenance and development of a sustainable tourism offer associated with the St. Lawrence River..

                                                                                                                 -30-

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Hamilton-Niagara — 6.3kg of cocaine taken off the streets after joint investigation with Brantford Police Service

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    The Brantford Police Service, in collaboration with RCMP Hamilton-Niagara Regional Detachment, executed search warrants at five southwestern Ontario locations resulting in three individuals from Brantford being charged.

    The searches uncovered 6.3kg of cocaine, with a street value of $170,000 and approximately $2,000,000 in Canadian currency, which has been seized as suspected proceeds of crime.

    A number of electronic communications devices were also seized. Additional arrests and charges may follow.

    Three individuals are facing charges:

    • Bhavandeep Gill (36 yrs.), Possession of a Controlled Substance (cocaine) for the purpose of trafficking, contrary to section 5(2) of the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA)
    • Vikram Kumar (23 yrs.), Possession of a Controlled Substance (cocaine) for the purpose of trafficking, contrary to section 5(2) of the CDSA
    • Sandeep Kaur (24 yrs.), Possession of a Controlled Substance (cocaine) for the purpose of trafficking, contrary to section 5(2) of the CDSA

    The individuals are scheduled to appear in Brantford Court on December 19, 2024.

    The success of this investigation was made possible through funding provided by the Ontario Government, Ministry of the Solicitor General in which the Criminal Intelligence Service Ontario (CISO) supported this joint force investigation.

    We would also like to thank the Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre of Canada (FINTRAC), Canada’s financial intelligence unit, for its vital role in supporting this investigation. Disclosures from FINTRAC helped uncover evidence of alleged money laundering and proceeds of crime by tracing financial transactions and identifying patterns. FINTRAC’s collaboration with the RCMP facilitated the understanding of the complex financial networks involved. The investigation’s outcome underscores the importance of interagency cooperation in combating organized crime.

    “Drug trafficking has widespread and devastating effects on multiple levels. At its core, it contributes to violence and undermines public health with increased addiction rates and overdoses. Thanks to the Brantford Police Service and all of our partner agencies for the excellent collaboration which resulted in more than 6kg of cocaine taken off of our streets.” – Inspector Vance Morgan, Officer in Charge RCMP Hamilton-Niagara Detachment

    “This is another successful joint project helping to minimize the threat to our communities caused by the distribution of controlled substances, and organized criminal activity related to drug trafficking. By disrupting the operation of criminal networks, our goal is to assist our community by reducing the violence surrounding the trade of illicit substances.

    In support of the search warrants and arrests related to this project, the Brantford Police Service would like to recognize the Criminal Intelligence Service of Ontario, for their continued funding and dedication in keeping communities safe in Ontario.” – Interim Chief Jason Saunders, Brantford Police Service

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ernst Calls to Ban Funding for American Consulting Firm Working for CCP

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA)

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) joined Chairman John Moolenaar (R-Mich.) of the House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party and U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) in exposing new evidence of an American consulting firm working for the Chinese military and Chinese Communist Party and calling on Attorney General Merrick Garland and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin to initiate a criminal investigation and debar McKinsey & Company from receiving Department of Defense (DoD) contracts.
    The lawmakers reveal how McKinsey failed to disclose consulting work for the Chinese government and lied about working for the Chinese government under oath, all while receiving over $480 million to consult for the U.S. military since 2008. In their letter, the lawmakers outline the details of McKinsey’s work to advance the Chinese Communist Party and Chinese military, its work to shape the Chinese Communist Party’s five-year plans to surpass the United States, and its failure to report its China work, as required by U.S. law.
    McKinsey’s work on sensitive U.S. national security matters occurred as the company failed to disclose its similar work for China – while it is seeking to capably threaten the U.S. military and American troops. The risk that McKinsey leveraged sensitive American programs and secrets to benefit the Chinese state is grave and merits an investigation and future consequences.
    “It is deeply disturbing that McKinsey, which has a history of undermining the interests of the U.S. government in favor of another client, engaged in sensitive government contracts with DoD while failing to disclose its work with the PRC [People’s Republic of China] government and its state-owned enterprises on issues of national importance,” the lawmakers wrote.
    “McKinsey not only failed to make necessary disclosures but actively concealed its sensitive work for the PRC government in sworn testimony before Congress. In describing McKinsey’s Chinese contracts, McKinsey’s Global Managing Partner testified under oath before Congress this year that the company never worked for the central government of the PRC,” they continued.
    The lawmakers also highlighted the massive discrepancies in McKinsey’s Managing Partner’s testimony before Congress in February 2024. They concluded by requiring a briefing from both Attorney General Garland and Defense Secretary Austin by Dec. 1 about McKinsey’s criminal implications and its status as a DoD contractor.
    Background:
    Ernst has led the bipartisan CONSULT Act to prohibit DoD from contracting with consulting firms like McKinsey for national security matters when those firms also provide consulting services for sanctioned entities or foreign adversaries, like China, Russia, or Iran.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Attorney Announces 2024 District Election Officer

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    WILMINGTON, Del. – David C. Weiss, U.S. Attorney for the District of Delaware announced today that Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) Shamoor Anis will lead the efforts of his Office in connection with the Justice Department’s nationwide Election Day Program for the upcoming November 5, 2024, general election.  AUSA Anis has been appointed to serve as the District Election Officer (DEO) for the District of Delaware, and in that capacity is responsible for overseeing the District’s handling of election day complaints of voting rights concerns, threats of violence to election officials or staff, and election fraud, in consultation with Justice Department Headquarters in Washington.

    U.S. Attorney Weiss said, “Every citizen must be able to vote without interference or discrimination and to have that vote counted in a fair and free election.  Similarly, election officials and staff must be able to serve without being subject to unlawful threats of violence.  The Department of Justice will always work tirelessly to protect the integrity of the election process.”

    The Department of Justice has an important role in deterring and combatting discrimination and intimidation at the polls, threats of violence directed at election officials and poll workers, and election fraud.  The Department will address these violations wherever they occur.  The Department’s longstanding Election Day Program furthers these goals and also seeks to ensure public confidence in the electoral process by providing local points of contact within the Department for the public to report possible federal election law violations.

    Federal law protects against such crimes as threatening violence against election officials or staff, intimidating or bribing voters, buying and selling votes, impersonating voters, altering vote tallies, stuffing ballot boxes, and marking ballots for voters against their wishes or without their input.  It also contains special protections for the rights of voters, and provides that they can vote free from interference, including intimidation, and other acts designed to prevent or discourage people from voting or voting for the candidate of their choice.  The Voting Rights Act protects the right of voters to mark their own ballot or to be assisted by a person of their choice (where voters need assistance because of disability or inability to read or write in English).   

    U.S. Attorney Weiss additionally commented that, “The franchise is the cornerstone of American democracy.  We all must ensure that those who are entitled to the franchise can exercise it if they choose, and that those who seek to corrupt it are brought to justice.  In order to respond to complaints of voting rights concerns and election fraud during the upcoming election, and to ensure that such complaints are directed to the appropriate authorities, AUSA/DEO Anis will be on duty in this District while the polls are open.  He can be reached by the public at the following telephone number – 302-893-5213.”

    In addition, the FBI will have special agents available in each field office and resident agency throughout the country to receive allegations of election fraud and other election abuses on election day.  The local FBI field office can be reached by the public at 410-265-8080.

    Complaints about possible violations of the federal voting rights laws can be made directly to the Civil Rights Division in Washington, DC by complaint form at https://civilrights.justice.gov/ or by phone at 800-253-3931.

    Please note, however, in the case of a crime of violence or intimidation, please call 911 immediately before contacting federal authorities.  State and local police have primary jurisdiction over polling places, and almost always have faster reaction capacity in an emergency. 

    U.S. Attorney Weiss concluded, “Ensuring free and fair elections depends in large part on the assistance of the American electorate.  It is important that those who have specific information about voting rights concerns or election fraud make that information available to the Department of Justice.”

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Civil Engineering and Development Department highly concerned about worker at Tuen Mun Area 38 Fill Bank falling into sea

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Civil Engineering and Development Department highly concerned about worker at Tuen Mun Area 38 Fill Bank falling into sea
    Civil Engineering and Development Department highly concerned about worker at Tuen Mun Area 38 Fill Bank falling into sea
    ******************************************************************************************

         The Director of Civil Engineering and Development, Mr Michael Fong, is highly concerned about the incident happened at the Tuen Mun Area 38 Fill Bank today (October 21) in which a subcontractor’s worker fell into the sea and went missing. Mr Fong has tasked the project team to make every endeavour to facilitate the search and rescue operation of the Police and the Fire Services Department, seriously follow up on the cause of the incident and carry out a thorough review on safety measures of related work to prevent re-occurrence of similar incidents.      At around 12.30pm today, the worker concerned accidentally fell into the sea after mooring a construction vessel. After the incident, related work has been suspended immediately and the work area concerned has been fenced off. The contractor has reported the incident to the Labour Department and has contacted the family of the worker to provide assistance.

     
    Ends/Monday, October 21, 2024Issued at HKT 23:30

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Attorney’s Office Announces Election Day Program

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SCRANTON – United States Attorney Gerard M. Karam announced today that Criminal Division Chief Bruce D. Brandler, Assistant United States Attorneys (AUSA) Michael Consiglio, Geoffrey MacArthur, and James Buchanan will lead the efforts of this Office in connection with the Justice Department’s nationwide Election Day Program for the upcoming November 5, 2024, general election.

    Criminal Chief Brandler has been appointed to oversee and lead the District’s Election Day Program.  AUSAs Consiglio, Buchanan, and MacArthur will serve as the District Election Officers (DEO) for the Middle District of Pennsylvania in our Harrisburg, Scranton, and Williamsport Offices. In that capacity, they are responsible for overseeing the handling of election day complaints of voting rights concerns, threats of any kind to election officials or staff, and election fraud, in consultation with Justice Department Headquarters in Washington.

    “Every citizen must be able to vote without interference or discrimination and to have that vote counted in a fair and free election,” said U.S. Attorney Karam. “Similarly, election officials and staff must be able to serve without being subject to unlawful threats of any kind. The Department of Justice will always work tirelessly to protect the integrity of the election process.”

    The Department of Justice has an important role in deterring and combatting discrimination and intimidation at the polls, threats of any kind directed at election officials and poll workers, and election fraud.  The Department will address these violations wherever they occur. The Department’s longstanding Election Day Program furthers these goals and also seeks to ensure public confidence in the electoral process by providing local points of contact within the Department for the public to report possible federal election law violations.

    Federal law protects against such crimes as threatening violence against election officials or staff, intimidating or bribing voters, buying and selling votes, impersonating voters, altering vote tallies, stuffing ballot boxes, and marking ballots for voters against their wishes or without their input. It also contains special protections for the rights of voters, and provides that they can vote free from interference, including intimidation, and other acts designed to prevent or discourage people from voting or voting for the candidate of their choice.  The Voting Rights Act protects the right of voters to mark their own ballot or to be assisted by a person of their choice (where voters need assistance because of disability or inability to read or write in English).   

     “The right to vote is the cornerstone of American democracy, said U.S. Attorney Karam.  “We all must ensure that those who are entitled to the franchise can exercise it if they choose, and that those who seek to corrupt it are brought to justice.”

    In order to respond to complaints of voting rights concerns and election fraud during the upcoming election, and to ensure that such complaints are directed to the appropriate authorities, our DEOs will be on duty in this District while the polls are open. AUSA/DEO Consiglio can be reached by the public at the Harrisburg Office number: 717-221-4482; AUSA/DEO Buchanan can be reached at the Scranton Office number: 570-348-2800; and AUSA/DEO MacArthur can be reached at the Williamsport Office number: 570-326-1935.

    In addition, the FBI will have special agents available in each field office and resident agency throughout the country to receive allegations of election fraud and other election abuses on election day.  The local FBI field office can be reached by the public at 215-418-4000.

    Complaints about possible violations of the federal voting rights laws can be made directly to the Civil Rights Division in Washington, DC by phone at 800-253-3931 or by complaint form at https://civilrights.justice.gov/.

     Please note, however, in the case of a crime of violence or intimidation, please call 911 immediately and before contacting federal authorities.  State and local police have primary jurisdiction over polling places, and almost always have faster reaction capacity in an emergency.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: Cybersecurity Awareness Month: Cybersecurity Through Vigilance

    Source: United States Navy

    WASHINGTON – As we continue to mark Cybersecurity Awareness Month, it’s important to understand that cybersecurity is not a passive consideration limited only to the cyber community, but something that requires proactivity and vigilance from all of us. Every Sailor and Civilian has a critical role as a defender of Navy systems and, by extension, the Naval mission.

    All levels of the command chain must possess an understanding of the risks associated with system operations and the changes to them over time. Similarly to how a pilot should understand the potential failure of faulty landing gear, it is critical that personnel understand the cyber vulnerabilities of systems they operate and what to do in the event of an incident. While the threat vector may be in the cyber world, the operational impact often occurs in the physical battlespace affecting the supported missions.

    As the cyber landscape is constantly evolving, obtaining this understanding requires regular cyber hygiene (e.g., scanning, patching, etc.) and ongoing communication between operators and the cyber community. All individuals play a role in identifying and reporting issues as they occur. While service disruptions or issues can be due to benign IT faults or ongoing maintenance, they can also be a sign of a cyber breach. One of the primary focuses of Navy is developing tools and dashboards that will provide real-time visibility into the cyber posture of systems to Navy personnel. In addition to allowing you, as Cyber Warriors, to have at-a-glance insight into operational risks, it will provide commanders the tools to strategically navigate the cyber terrain and claim ownership of cyber decision making.

    Realizing real-time continuous monitoring is one of the top Navy information warfare goals for FY25. As part of the broader Department of the Navy Cyber Ready initiative, Navy is working with the Marine Corps, to develop department-wide continuous monitoring requirements and to create a threat-based risk calculus which will be used to feed a centralized cyber data environment.

    At the command level, we need you to help us understand the cyber priorities of you and your leadership through participation in ongoing working groups and providing feedback on draft solutions. This feedback is crucial to ensuring that the tools developed reflect your operational priorities.

    The Navy must develop new technologies to support cyber vigilance and we must collectively embrace a proactive ownership of our systems’ cyber posture. The speed and reach at which information flows through an increasingly interconnected global environment has fundamentally altered the character of modern warfare. Together as Cyber Warriors, through our vigilance, we can and will prepare the maritime force for the fight.

    MIL Security OSI –