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  • MIL-OSI: Banzai Regains Compliance with NASDAQ Minimum Bid Price Rule

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SEATTLE, Oct. 22, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —  Banzai International, Inc. (NASDAQ: BNZI) (“Banzai” or the “Company”), a leading marketing technology company that provides essential marketing and sales solutions, today announced that it has received notice from The Nasdaq Stock Market LLC (“Nasdaq”) informing the Company that it has regained compliance with the minimum bid price requirement under Nasdaq Listing Rule 5450(a)(1) (the “Rule”) for continued listing.

    To regain compliance with the Rule, the Company’s Class A common stock was required to maintain a minimum closing bid price of $1.00 or more for at least 10 consecutive business days; on October 18, 2024, Nasdaq informed the Company it achieved compliance with such Rule. Therefore, the Nasdaq Listing Qualifications Staff considers the prior bid price deficiency matter now closed.

    About Banzai

    Banzai is a marketing technology company that provides essential marketing and sales solutions for businesses of all sizes. On a mission to help their customers achieve their mission, Banzai enables companies of all sizes to target, engage, and measure both new and existing customers more effectively. Banzai customers include Square, Hewlett Packard Enterprise, Thermo Fisher Scientific, Thinkific, Doodle and ActiveCampaign, among thousands of others. Learn more at http://www.banzai.io. For investors, please visit https://ir.banzai.io/.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements often use words such as “believe,” “may,” “will,” “estimate,” “target,” “continue,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “expect,” “should,” “would,” “propose,” “plan,” “project,” “forecast,” “predict,” “potential,” “seek,” “future,” “outlook,” and similar variations and expressions. Forward-looking statements are those that do not relate strictly to historical or current facts. Examples of forward-looking statements may include, among others, statements regarding Banzai International, Inc.’s (the “Company’s”): future financial, business and operating performance and goals; annualized recurring revenue and customer retention; ongoing, future or ability to maintain or improve its financial position, cash flows, and liquidity and its expected financial needs; potential financing and ability to obtain financing; acquisition strategy and proposed acquisitions and, if completed, their potential success and financial contributions; strategy and strategic goals, including being able to capitalize on opportunities; expectations relating to the Company’s industry, outlook and market trends; total addressable market and serviceable addressable market and related projections; plans, strategies and expectations for retaining existing or acquiring new customers, increasing revenue and executing growth initiatives; and product areas of focus and additional products that may be sold in the future. Because forward-looking statements relate to the future, they are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks and changes in circumstances that are difficult to predict and many of which are outside of our control. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, and our actual results of operations, financial condition and liquidity and development of the industry in which the Company operates may differ materially from those made in or suggested by the forward-looking statements. Therefore, investors should not rely on any of these forward-looking statements. Factors that may cause actual results to differ materially include changes in the markets in which the Company operates, customer demand, the financial markets, economic, business and regulatory and other factors, such as the Company’s ability to execute on its strategy. More detailed information about risk factors can be found in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K and the Company’s Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q under the heading “Risk Factors,” and in other reports filed by the Company, including reports on Form 8-K. The Company does not undertake any duty to update forward-looking statements after the date of this press release.

    Investor Relations
    Chris Tyson
    Executive Vice President
    MZ Group – MZ North America
    949-491-8235
    BNZI@mzgroup.us
    http://www.mzgroup.us

    Media
    Rachel Meyrowitz
    Director, Demand Generation, Banzai
    media@banzai.io

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Upward adjustment of expectations for 2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    To Nasdaq OMX Copenhagen

    22 October 2024

    Announcement no. 13/2024

    Upward adjustment of expectations for 2024

    As a consequence of the bank’s good performance in the first nine months of 2024, the expected profit before tax is adjusted upwards to an interval of DKK 225-250 million.

    Most recently, in company announcement no. 07/2024 of 24 July 2024, the bank announced expectations for 2024 to a profit before tax in the range of DKK 200-240 million. 

    The Report for the first nine months of 2024 will be published on 6 November 2024.

    Please direct any questions to:

    Kind regards,
    The BANK of Greenland

    Martin Kviesgaard
    Managing Director

    Tel. no.: +299 34 78 00/e-mail: mbk@banken.gl

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: SHAREHOLDER INVESTIGATION: The M&A Class Action Firm Investigates the Merger of Universal Stainless & Alloy Products Inc. – USAP

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, Oct. 22, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Monteverde & Associates PC (the “M&A Class Action Firm”), has recovered money for shareholders and is recognized as a Top 50 Firm in the 2018-2022 ISS Securities Class Action Services Report. We are headquartered at the Empire State Building in New York City and are investigating Universal Stainless & Alloy Products Inc. (Nasdaq: USAP), relating to its proposed merger with Aperam US Absolute LLC. Under the terms of the agreement, all USAP shares will be automatically converted into the right to receive $45.00 per share.

    Click here for more information https://monteverdelaw.com/case/universal-stainless-alloy-products-inc/. It is free and there is no cost or obligation to you.

    NOT ALL LAW FIRMS ARE THE SAME. Before you hire a law firm, you should talk to a lawyer and ask:

    1. Do you file class actions and go to Court?
    2. When was the last time you recovered money for shareholders?
    3. What cases did you recover money in and how much?

    About Monteverde & Associates PC

    Our firm litigates and has recovered money for shareholders…and we do it from our offices in the Empire State Building. We are a national class action securities firm with a successful track record in trial and appellate courts, including the U.S. Supreme Court. 

    No company, director or officer is above the law. If you own common stock in the above listed company and have concerns or wish to obtain additional information free of charge, please visit our website or contact Juan Monteverde, Esq. either via e-mail at jmonteverde@monteverdelaw.com or by telephone at (212) 971-1341.

    Contact:
    Juan Monteverde, Esq.
    MONTEVERDE & ASSOCIATES PC
    The Empire State Building
    350 Fifth Ave. Suite 4740
    New York, NY 10118
    United States of America
    jmonteverde@monteverdelaw.com
    Tel: (212) 971-1341

    Attorney Advertising. (C) 2024 Monteverde & Associates PC. The law firm responsible for this advertisement is Monteverde & Associates PC (http://www.monteverdelaw.com). Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome with respect to any future matter.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Thnks Honored as 2024 Inc. Power Partner Award Winner

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NASHVILLE, Tenn., Oct. 22, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —  Thnks, the first on-demand gratitude expression platform for enterprises, SMBs, and individual contributors, today announced it has been named a 2024 Inc. Power Partner Award winner. The prestigious list honors B2B organizations across the country that have proven track records supporting entrepreneurs and helping startups grow. Thnks is featured alongside other renowned business leaders, including Slack, Intuit QuickBooks, Oracle NetSuite, Virtru, and HubSpot, among many others.

    “Gratitude is powerful—it not only strengthens relationships but also drives measurable business outcomes,” said Brendan Kamm, Thnks Co-Founder and CEO. “Incorporating gratitude into the business world has the potential to transform how companies scale and grow. Our clients understand this, and this recognition reaffirms our commitment to helping our partners deepen connections and redefine how businesses build trust and achieve success.”

    Thnks offers an easy-to-use digital platform, available and relevant to both enterprises and SMBs, focused on supporting and growing business relationships through gratitude. With Thnks, users can send personalized gestures of appreciation to colleagues, clients, or partners to strengthen business relationships that drive loyalty and revenue. Small acts of gratitude will always have an outsized business impact.

    This year’s list recognizes Thnks in the Customer Relationship Management (CRM) category among other leading companies in marketing and advertising, health and wellness, financial services, legal, logistics, public relations, and productivity. Every company on the Inc. Power Partner award list received top marks from clients for being instrumental in helping leadership navigate the dynamic world of startups. The B2B partners in CRM enhance the sales enablement process by supporting entrepreneurs across various facets of the business, including hiring, compliance, infrastructure development, cloud migration, fundraising, etc., allowing founders to focus on their core missions.

    “This is our definitive listing of vendors and suppliers who have demonstrated excellence in serving small- and midsize customers,” says Inc. editor in chief Mike Hofman. “As part of the vetting process, our team of editors, researchers and reporters gathered information on companies’ products and services, assessed their reputation as captured in online comments and forums, and collected customer testimonials to ensure that the sales pitch matches the actual client experience. In every case, we spoke to founders like you who were happy to attest to a vendor’s genuine commitment to a mutually beneficial business partnership. We’re happy to be the conduit for that positive word of mouth.”
    ​​
    To view the complete list, go to: Power Partner Awards 2024: Inc.’s Directory of B2B Excellence

    The November 2024 Issue of Inc. magazine is available online now at https://www.inc.com/magazine and will be on newsstands beginning October 29, 2024.

    ABOUT THNKS
    Established in 2016, Thnks believes making people feel appreciated – not just part of a transaction – is a business-building strategy. Utilized by over 10,000 teams and 120 Fortune 500 companies, Thnks is an on-demand gratitude expression platform for enterprises, SMBs, and individual contributors that converts small acts of gratitude into lasting business relationships that drive loyalty and revenue. The Thnks platform incorporates technology, program analytics and compliance/budget adherence to empower customers with a more economical, intentional, and authentic way to make people feel appreciated. To date, millions of Thnks have been sent – proving small acts of gratitude generate outsized business impact.

    ABOUT INC.
    Inc. is the leading media brand and playbook for the entrepreneurs and business leaders shaping our future. Through its journalism, Inc. aims to inform, educate, and elevate the profile of our community: the risk-takers, the innovators, and the ultra-driven go-getters who are creating our future. Inc.’s award-winning work achieves a monthly brand footprint of more than 40 million across a variety of channels, including events, digital, print, video, podcasts, newsletters, and social media. Its proprietary Inc. 5000 list, produced every year since its launch as the Inc. 100 in 1982, analyzes company data to rank the fastest-growing privately held businesses in the United States. The recognition that comes with inclusion on this and other prestigious Inc. lists, such as Female Founders and Power Partners, gives the founders of top businesses the opportunity to engage with an exclusive community of their peers, and credibility that helps them drive sales and recruit talent. For more information, visit http://www.inc.com.

    FOR MORE INFORMATION, PRESS ONLY:
    Kaileigh Higgins
    thnks@inkhouse.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Security: San Diego Physician and Medical Practice Pay $3.8 Million to Resolve False Claims Act Allegations

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

    SAN DIEGO – Dr. Janette J. Gray of San Diego and her former medical practice, The Center for Health & Wellbeing in San Diego, have agreed to pay $3.8 million to settle allegations that they violated the False Claims Act by knowingly submitting false claims to the Medicare and TRICARE programs.

    Dr. Gray and The Center claimed to operate an “alternative,” “integrative,” and “holistic” clinic, which was staffed by medical doctors, nurse practitioners, naturopathic doctors, chiropractors, acupuncturists, and mental health professionals, along with ancillary medical and administrative staff. Dr. Gray and The Center promoted IV infusion therapy, hormone/supplement therapy, and a variety of other alternative treatments.

    The settlement resolves allegations that from 2012 to 2022, Dr. Gray and her practice billed Medicare and TRICARE for services that were not covered under either program by disguising the rendering provider, misrepresenting the services provided, “unbundling” services (by billing for a procedure or service in separate parts instead of a single code), or billing for services not medically necessary. In addition to paying $3.8 million to resolve the allegations, Dr. Gray will now be excluded from participating in Medicare, Medicaid, and all other Federal health care programs for five years.

    “There’s no price tag on the integrity of our healthcare system,” said U.S. Attorney Tara McGrath. “When a doctor engages in billing fraud, we will protect patients and taxpayers from deceit.”

    “The civil settlement holds Dr. Gray and her former medical practice accountable for questionable actions that circumvented the TRICARE billing guidelines and allowed them to receive payments for services that should not have been reimbursed by TRICARE, costing American taxpayers millions of dollars,” said Bryan D. Denny, Special Agent in Charge of the Department of Defense Office of Inspector General, Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS), Western Field Office.  “DCIS and its partners will always aggressively investigate those who defraud TRICARE, because those deceptive actions ultimately harm those defending our country and their families.”

    “This investigation is proof that the FBI and its law enforcement partners remain committed to investigating and bringing to justice anyone who tries to violate the American health care system,” said FBI San Diego Acting Special Agent in Charge Houtan Moshrefi.

    The resolution obtained in this matter was the result of a coordinated effort between the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of California; the United States Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General; DCIS; and the FBI. This matter was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Maritsa A. Flaherty.

    The resolution of this matter illustrates the government’s emphasis on combating healthcare fraud. One of the most powerful tools in this effort is the False Claims Act. Tips and complaints from all sources about potential fraud, waste, abuse, and mismanagement can be reported to the Department of Health and Human Services at 800-HHS-TIPS (800-447-8477).

    The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: NATO continues to strengthen 30 years of scientific cooperation with Bulgaria

    Source: NATO

    On Tuesday (22 October 2024), a team from the NATO Science for Peace and Security (SPS) Programme was in Sofia to further strengthen scientific cooperation with Bulgaria.

    Representatives from the SPS Programme and Bulgarian government officials highlighted the value of three decades of cooperation – which began during Bulgaria’s partnership with NATO and has continued in the 20 years since the country joined the Alliance. Through this scientific cooperation, researchers have developed novel materials to absorb sound, modelled pollution risks in the Black Sea, created software to enhance cyber defences, and more. The NATO team highlighted that they will soon launch a new call for proposals, enabling further research and innovation.

    The Information day organised by the NATO SPS Programme is one of a number of events to mark Bulgaria’s 20th anniversary as a member of NATO. Scientists at the event were joined by members of the diplomatic community, as well as officials from Bulgaria’s Ministry of Defence, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Ministry of Education and Science.
     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Retirement Commission – NEW FINANCIAL EDUCATION PARTNERSHIP HELPS RANGATAHI LEARN ABOUT MONEY

    Source: Retirement Commission

    Te whai hua – kia ora, Sorted in Schools, Inland Revenue and School Kit have joined forces to bring more innovative new learning resources to teach high school students about money.

    Newly designed interactive resource packs on tax and compound interest will be sent to around 13,000 year 9 and 10 students throughout New Zealand over the next 12 months.

    Te Ara Ahunga Ora Retirement Commission Learning Lead, Yasmin Frazer says this partnership extends the reach of Te whai hua – kia ora, Sorted in Schools, the Retirement Commission’s free financial education programme.

    “It’s critical the next generation of New Zealanders can access financial knowledge through the education system, and this provides teachers further resources to engage their students with money,” she says.

    “We have been providing resources and upskilling teachers and Kaiako through our Te whai hua – kia ora, Sorted in Schools programme since 2019, with 89% of New Zealand schools and kura now using it.

    “Partnering with School Kit has meant we can offer more ways to teach kids about money as well as supporting us to support more teachers to learn more about financial education themselves.”

    The kits can be incorporated into a variety of subjects, comprising English, Math, Business or Social Studies and combine a mix of digital and physical resources including encouraging use of the practical tools available on the Sorted website.

    The tax focused kit teaches students about tax in a way that is compelling and meaningful so they can hit the ground running when they start working, it also delves into how it contributes to areas like health and education.

    Inland Revenue Te Tari Taake Community Compliance Leader, Cy Lochead says, “We want everyone in New Zealand Aotearoa to understand how tax works and what it’s used for, as it’s an important part of our working lives.”

    “Partnering with Te Ara Ahunga Ora to develop financial literacy through the education system has created an opportunity to develop that understanding right from the start.

    “We’re excited to see the School Kit released, creating new opportunities to engage with the taxation module content.”

    Notes:

    About Te whai hua – kia ora, Sorted in Schools

    Te Ara Ahunga Ora Retirement Commission launched Te whai hua – kia ora, Sorted in Schools in 2019, which now has 78% New Zealand secondary schools and 81% of kura taking part.

    It is the first government-backed financial education programme fully aligned with the curriculum, so can be taught as part of day-to-day classes in subjects as diverse as maths, social sciences, technology, English and even health. The resources cover topics ranging from debt and money management to KiwiSaver and insurance and include learning and assessment materials for NCEA unit and achievement standards.

    More than 300 resources, designed by teachers for teachers, are already available through the website sortedinschools.org.nz, and we deliver free professional development workshops and webinars to help teachers feel confident to teach the subject. Ask your secondary school if you haven’t seen them using it.

    In 2022/23 68% of schools and kura have used Te whai hua – kia ora and 97% of teachers value Te whai hua – kia ora as a financial capability programme they like to use. And it’s all free.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SCHNEIDER INTRODUCES THE EXPANDING CLEAN FUEL PRODUCTION ACT

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Brad Schneider (D-IL)

    LINCOLNSHIRE, IL — Congressman Brad Schneider (IL-10), with Reps. Dan Kildee (MI-08) and Julia Brownley (CA-26), introduced today the Expanding Clean Fuel Production Act which would extend for ten years the Section 45Z clean fuel production credit. 

    The Inflation Reduction Act created the clean fuel production credit (CFPC) for transportation fuel with zero or low greenhouse gas emissions, including sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). This credit currently expires at the end of 2027 and this bill would extend it for ten additional years, making the credit available through 2037. 

    “I’m proud to introduce this legislation with Reps. Kildee and Brownley to extend the SAF credit, boost production of clean fuels and position the U.S. as a global leader in production and use of sustainable fuels,” said Rep. Schneider. “A ten-year extension would allow for sustained investment in production to accelerate the transition to cleaner fuels and to significantly cut greenhouse gas emissions from the aviation industry, in particular. We are already seeing the impact of the Inflation Reduction Act’s investments on U.S. production of sustainable fuels.” 

    Schneider authored the tax credit for the production of SAF which was included in the Inflation Reduction Act in 2022 and aims to halve carbon emissions in the aviation sector.  

    The credit was inspired by a SAF credit included in the Sustainable Skies Act, which Rep. Schneider authored with Reps. Kildee and Brownley in 2021. The credit was ultimately enacted in the Inflation Reduction Act in 2022, will transition into the CFPC in 2025, and will expire in 2027. SAF producers are eligible for a tax credit of $1.25 to $1.75 per gallon. 

    “The 45z tax credit has been critical in helping to ramp up U.S. production of sustainable aviation fuel,” said Rep. Brownley. “However, we needed to extend the credit long-term to provide market certainty and to ensure a safe and reliable supply of SAF to meet the needs of the aviation industry. I appreciate Congressman Schneider and Congressman Kildee’s partnership on this bill, and I look forward to working with stakeholders in the environmental, energy, and aviation community to extend the 45z credit and promote U.S. investment in this critical domestic fuel source.” 

    “In my home state of Michigan, we have already seen the harmful effects of climate change on our Great Lakes,” said Rep. Kildee. “This legislation will help us continue producing clean energy and fuels here in the United States, to help create good paying jobs, provide new markets to Michigan farmers, and reduce carbon emissions from airplanes and other vehicles,”  

    “As the leading U.S. airline in SAF use and advocacy, we know that extending incentives for U.S. SAF producers by a full ten years is a necessary first step to grow the industry,” said Lauren Riley, Chief Sustainability Officer for United Airlines. “The continued leadership of Representatives Schneider, Kildee and Brownley is helping to assure U.S. competitiveness in SAF and clean fuels, while boosting U.S. agricultural producers and rural communities. We look forward to working with Representatives Schneider, Kildee and Brownley and their colleagues on both sides of the aisle to ensure that this tax credit is both extended and enhanced in a way that will maximize investment in SAF and other clean, low-carbon fuels.” 

     “Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) is the single most important method to decarbonize aviation in the coming decades, and LanzaJet applauds the leadership of Representatives Schneider, Kildee, and Brownley in advancing SAF tax incentives that will catalyze domestic investment in this critical sector,” said Jimmy Samartzis, LanzaJet CEO. “As the original sponsors of the IRA’s SAF Blender’s Tax Credit via the Sustainable Skies Act, Reps Schneider, Kildee, and Brownley continue to lay the foundation for a vibrant U.S. SAF industry by providing for ten years of policy certainty for domestic SAF producers via this important bill.  We look forward to continuing to work with Representatives Schneider, Kildee, and Brownley to develop policy proposals that will both extend and enhance the IRA’s short term SAF tax credits and enable achievement of the goals of the SAF Grand Challenge.”   

     “We applaud Representative Schneider and his colleagues Representatives Kildee and Brownley for their efforts to extend incentives for SAF,” said Alison Graab, Executive Director of the SAF Coalition. “We look forward to working with them on both an extension as well as enhancing and strengthening the incentive. Advancing sustainable aviation fuel demonstrates a clear commitment to the environmental and economic promises SAF holds, and incentives that are durable and attract investment are essential to unlocking that potential and driving the progress needed to sustain and grow the SAF industry.” 

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Debary Man Sentenced To Fifteen Months In Federal Prison For Dealing In Firearms Without A License

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

    Orlando, Florida – U.S. District Judge Wendy W. Berger has sentenced Brandon Eugene Brooke (30, Debary) to 15 months in federal prison for dealing in firearms without a license. Brooke entered a guilty plea on May 22, 2024.

    According to court documents, between April 14 and October 10, 2022, Brooke purchased 69 firearms from federally licensed firearms dealers (FFLs). Many of the firearms were identical and were purchased together or close in time to one another. On October 13, 2022, ATF agents questioned Brooke regarding his repeated purchases of identical firearms from FFLs. A search of Brooke’s phone revealed evidence of firearms dealing.

    Following the interview, ATF agents served Brooke with a “Warning Notice of Unlicensed Firearms Dealing in Violation of Federal Law.” In the Notice, Brooke was advised that his firearm transfers constituted dealing in firearms without a license. Brooke signed the Notice, acknowledging receipt, and was given a copy to retain. Following his acknowledgment of the Notice, Brooke continued to deal in firearms without a license, in violation of federal law.

    This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the United States Postal Inspection Service, and Homeland Security Investigations. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Noah P. Dorman.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Justice Department Launches Voter Assistance Resources for People Impacted by Recent Hurricanes and Severe Weather Damage

    Source: US State of Vermont

    The Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division launched a webpage today compiling information to help voters in states impacted by recent hurricanes Helene and Milton to have access to the ballot. The hurricanes have displaced several thousands of people from their residences; disrupted vital services; closed schools, businesses and other places; slowed postal delivery; and destroyed important personal possessions, including photos and identification documents.

    In these online resources, the department focuses on the six states that were directly affected by recent hurricanes: Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia. The site identifies and provides links to various state changes made to accommodate voters who have been displaced, lost their identification documents, have had polling sites moved or who are unsure where or how they can vote. It also provides contact information so that voters can reach local voting officials who can provide the most specific and up-to-date guidance.

    The Justice Department is also committed to ensuring every eligible voter can cast their ballot free from discrimination and intimidation. Federal laws protect against voter intimidation, coercion and interference at every stage of the voting process. For additional information about voting and elections, including filing federal voting rights violations or threats against election workers, visit http://www.justice.gov/voting. Contact the Civil Rights Division’s Voting Section through the internet reporting portal at http://www.civilrights.justice.gov or by calling 1-800-253-3931.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman Holds Town Hall in North Brunswick

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman

    October 22, 2024

    Yesterday, Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman held a town hall to hear from neighbors and share updates about her work in Congress and the District on behalf of New Jersey’s 12th Congressional District constituents.

    Congresswoman Watson Coleman began the town hall by discussing her work on gun violence prevention, healthcare access, and defending reproductive rights and democracy. 

    The Congresswoman also discussed her efforts in the Appropriations Committee to bring back over $31.7 million to the 12th District for important infrastructure projects like the North Brunswick Safety Access Road, upgrades to Route 522, and enhancements to the Veterans Memorial Bridge connecting South River and Sayreville.

    She also answered questions from constituents about background checks for gun purchases, assistance to veterans, bringing back the State and Local Tax (SALT) deduction, and how we can bring the country together and unite around our common values.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Federal government launches programs to help small and medium-sized enterprises adopt and adapt artificial intelligence solutions

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    News release

    October 22, 2024 – Ottawa, Ontario

    Canada is a world leader in artificial intelligence (AI). Our vast AI ecosystem includes researchers, academics, entrepreneurs and more than 1,500 innovative companies, many of which are small or medium-sized enterprises (SME), serving a wide variety of economic sectors that include health, financial services and agriculture.

    Today, the Honourable Chrystia Freeland, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, on behalf of the Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry, announced the launch of two programs to grow Canada’s AI ecosystem by supporting the development of new generative AI applications and enabling AI adoption among SMEs to increase productivity. These programs are part of a $2.4 billion package of AI-focused initiatives announced in Budget 2024 to accelerate job growth, boost productivity and ensure AI is used responsibly.

    First, the Regional Artificial Intelligence Initiative (RAII) will invest $200 million to help bring new AI technologies to market and help accelerate AI adoption by SMEs and sectors across the country.

    Second, the AI Assist Program is investing $100 million to help innovative Canadian SMEs that are building or actively incorporating generative AI and deep learning solutions into their core products and services.

    On behalf of Minister Champagne, Deputy Prime Minister Freeland also thanked all the businesses, researchers and AI innovators who responded to the public consultation on artificial intelligence computing infrastructure, which closed in September. The consultations engaged more than 1,000 Canadians and Canadian businesses both online and in person through surveys, roundtables and meetings. This feedback is informing the design and implementation of two initiatives: the new AI Compute Access Fund and the Canadian AI Sovereign Compute Strategy.

    Quotes

    “Small and medium-sized businesses are the backbone of Canada’s AI ecosystem. The investments announced today are designed to serve as a catalyst for quicker AI adoption by this vital section of the economy, be a source of significant Canadian innovation, and enhance productivity and exports. The government will build on this with Canada’s first sovereign compute strategy that will reflect the voices of Canadians from coast to coast to coast.”
    – The Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry

    “AI is not science fiction; it helps businesses get more done—like software that scans a piece of lumber to help a mill increase its yield. It will empower businesses across our region and help grow our economy.”
    – The Honourable Gudie Hutchings, Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency

    “Artificial intelligence is changing our world, and Quebec is on the cutting edge. With over 750 businesses specializing in AI, our province is among the top ten places in the world for AI investment and innovation. Today’s announcement builds on this success, helping small businesses across Quebec seize the opportunities presented by AI while creating good jobs in our communities.”
    – The Honourable Soraya Martinez Ferrada, Minister of Tourism and Minister responsible for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions

    “Small and medium-sized businesses are the backbone of the prairie and northern economies. With the launch of the Regional Artificial Intelligence Initiative, delivered by PrairiesCan and CanNor, we’re helping businesses achieve their innovative goals and create well-paying jobs Canadians can rely on.”
    – The Honourable Dan Vandal, Minister of Northern Affairs and Minister responsible for Prairies Economic Development Canada and the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency

    “Supporting innovation in Northern Ontario is critical to the long-term prosperity and growth of the region. The Regional AI Initiative, which will be delivered by FedNor in Northern Ontario, will support the development of this important sector; create good, stable jobs for years to come; and help grow an economy that works for everyone.”
    – The Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Indigenous Services and Minister Responsible for the Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario

    “Southern Ontario is home to future leaders in the AI sector. Our government is supporting them as they grow their businesses and develop new technologies that will lead to advancements in many industries. Together, we are keeping our place at the forefront of the world’s advanced economies, taking the necessary steps to enhance our digital solutions and creating skilled jobs for Canadians.”
    – The Honourable Filomena Tassi, Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario

    “Cutting-edge companies across Canada are developing and adopting AI technologies to increase productivity, drive innovation and attract investment. AI has the potential to transform industries in all regions and sectors of our country. The Government of Canada is committed to leadership in AI to ensure Canadian businesses have the resources they need to integrate this transformative technology and harness its benefits right now and for the future.”
    – The Honourable Harjit S. Sajjan, President of the King’s Privy Council for Canada, Minister of Emergency Preparedness and Minister responsible for the Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada

    Quick facts

    • Budget 2024’s $2.4 billion investments in artificial intelligence (AI) include funding for sovereign compute (data centres) capacity, the creation of an AI safety institute, skills training and programs to encourage AI adoption across the Canadian economy.

    • Canada’s seven regional development agencies (RDA) will be delivering the $200 million Regional Artificial Intelligence Initiative (RAII) over the next five years. This funding will help bring new AI technologies to market and drive AI adoption by small and medium-sized enterprises (SME) and sectors across the country. For more information, including on how to apply, visit the RDAs’ websites.

    • Delivered by the National Research Council of Canada Industrial Research Assistance Program, the AI Assist Program is designed to help innovative Canadian SMEs navigate the challenges of developing and adapting generative AI and deep learning solutions and assist SMEs with awareness, planning and execution to develop these technologies safely and ethically.

    • It will do this by supporting scientific research, product development, testing and validation, building the next generation of AI technologies and applications for Canada and beyond.

    • The compute initiatives will enable Canada to secure its globally competitive position by ensuring that industry and researchers have access to affordable and cutting-edge infrastructure to support the growing AI ecosystem. 

    Associated links

    Contacts

    Audrey Milette
    Press Secretary
    Office of the Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry
    audrey.milette@ised-isde.gc.ca

    Media Relations
    Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada
    media@ised-isde.gc.ca

    Media Relations
    National Research Council of Canada
    Toll free: 1-855-282-1637
    media@nrc-cnrc.gc.ca

    Stay connected

    Find more services and information on the Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada website.

    Follow Canadian Science on social media.
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    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kean Advocates for Nearly $2 Million in Funding for Readington Police

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07)

    (October 19, 2024) READINGTON TOWNSHIP, NJ – On Thursday, Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07) toured the Readington Township Police Department ahead of the FY25 appropriations discussion to gain insight into local law enforcement needs and priorities. Congressman Kean is advocating for $1.9 million in the FY25 appropriation process to benefit Readington Township. This funding would be used to enhance the operational capacity, efficiency, and community engagement of the department through strategic upgrades and expansion efforts. 

    “As we continue with the FY25 appropriations process, I remain committed to advocating for the $1.9 million in funding that has already passed the House Appropriations Committee,” said Congressman Kean. “This critical investment will help modernize infrastructure, upgrade technology, and expand resources, ensuring that our officers have the tools they need to effectively serve and protect the residents of Readington Township.” 

    “As mayor of Readington Township, I am deeply grateful for Congressman Tom Kean’s partnership in securing millions of dollars through the House Appropriations Committee’s community project funding grant,” said Adam Mueller, Mayor of the Readington Township. “This crucial funding will be used for the expansion and modernization of our police department, ensuring they have the resources to serve our community effectively. Congressman Kean has been a devout supporter of our first responders, and his commitment to their safety and success is truly commendable.” 

    “The Readington Township Police Department is grateful for Congressman Kean’s continued support for law enforcement, and his commitment to secure funding that ensures our police officers have the tools they need to deliver the highest quality police service to the residents of Readington Township,” said Jim Curry, Director of Public Safety for the Readington Township Police Department.  

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kamlager-Dove Joins Democratic Efforts to Put a Spotlight on Project 2025 with New Documentary Style Video Series

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager California (37th District)

    New Documentary Video Series Details Project 2025’s Threat to Reproductive Freedom, Workers’ Rights, Environmental Protections, Public Education, and American Democracy

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Kamlager-Dove (CA-37) joined Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10) for a five-part video documentary series detailing Project 2025’s threat to democracy, reproductive freedom, workers’ rights, environmental regulation, and public education. The series will feature interviews with Representatives Kamlager-Dove, Goldman, and 11 of their House Democratic colleagues from across the country, as well as American Federation of Teachers President Randi Weingarten, Planned Parenthood Vice President Karen Stone, NY League of Conservation Voters President Julie Tighe, and Accountable.US President Caroline Ciccone. As Vice Ranking Member of the House Natural Resources Committee, Congresswoman Kamlager-Dove will highlight the devastating impacts Project 2025 would have on the environment.

    Watch the Trailer for the Series Here

    “Project 2025 poses a grave threat, not just to our democracy but to our planet, too,” said Congresswoman Kamlager-Dove. “This hostile takeover of the federal government would depose dedicated public servants and install Trump loyalists and climate denialists at the EPA, enabling Republicans to slash environmental protections at the behest of Big Oil. But Project 2025 doesn’t stop at encouraging the world’s worst polluters—this agenda also seeks to discontinue air quality, clean energy, and decarbonization programs by overturning the Inflation Reduction Act, harming the health of our communities and the environment, eliminating clean energy jobs, and exacerbating the climate crisis. With Project 2025, Republicans have shown that they will continue to put polluters over people—this plan must be stopped.”

    As an increasing share of Americans consume their news from non-traditional sources on Instagram, YouTube, and other social media sites, Congressman Goldman’s series marks an effort by Democrats to reach audiences where they are in a diversified media landscape. Across various social media platforms, the first two videos of the series have received over 400,000 views, signaling the potential of this new format to reach large numbers of Americans.

    “Project 2025’s shocking plan to gut checks and balances, restrict abortion access, decimate public education, pollute our air and water, and endanger American workers for the sole benefit of Republican authoritarian extremists is utterly reprehensible and incredibly dangerous,” Congressman Dan Goldman said. “This document is a detailed guide for how a second Trump administration will dismantle our democracy, and it is critical that the American people understand exactly how Trump intends to do it. I am proud to be joined by so many of my colleagues and policy leaders to expose this radical plan to reshape American society as we know it.”

    Congressional Equality Caucus Co-Chair Becca Balint said, “Project 2025 is a far-right plan by Trump allies to impose Christian nationalist values onto every American. It goes completely against our American values to promote a strong, resilient democracy; in fact this plan aims to erode our democratic institutions by gutting checks and balances and seizing power for the presidency. Project 2025 is nothing short of an anti-freedom and anti-equality agenda: it further attacks reproductive rights and disproportionately harms communities of color and our LGBTQI+ community. Project 2025 would increase gun violence rather than protect our communities. And its plan to abolish the Department of Education would hurt millions of families whose kids go to public schools, teachers who are already underpaid, and students. It’s dangerous and we must take it extremely seriously. I’m proud to be a part of this series to help Americans understand the threat it poses to our values and democratic norms.”

    Pre-K and Child Care Caucus Co-Chair Suzanne Bonamici said, “Project 2025 is a blueprint for MAGA extremists to undermine government and destroy programs and policies that support working families. It’s the product of people who held top positions in the previous administration and special interest groups that hold significant influence over the GOP’s agenda. I’m working with my colleagues to counter this extremist plan and to educate Americans about its potentially devastating effects.”

    Pro-Choice Caucus Task Force Chair Judy Chu said, “Trump and his allies’ Project 2025 is a 900 page comprehensive plan for MAGA Republicans to grab power for themselves, enrich their allies, and shatter our already fragile democracy. Project 2025 touches on every agency in the federal government and is January 6th extremism crafted into a governing ideology: fire tens of thousands of civil servants to replace them with partisan loyalists, abolish checks and balances, chip away at church-state separation, and impose a far-right agenda that rips away our freedoms and takes money out of pockets. It’s so critical for House Democrats to work together to shine a light on as many details of this plan as possible so we can equip ourselves and the American people with the information we need to fight back and make certain we put systems into place to protect us from these extreme policies.”

    Freshman Leadership Representative Jasmine Crockett said, “Let me make it plain: Project 2025 is the GOP’s attack plan against the American constitution. It doesn’t just undermine the progress made in this country for women, people of color, and LGBTQIA folks over the past century; it undermines the very principles of self-government that our country was founded on. If our Founding Fathers were to read Project 2025, they would have thought it was sent over by King George himself. It’s a blueprint for authoritarianism, a blueprint for monarchy, and a blueprint for a right-wing dictatorship in America that will end our democratic experiment for good. If the majority of Americans were to read and understand this plan – a plan authored by hundreds of members of former President Trump’s administration – they would reject it as un-American and dangerous. Thank you to Congressman Goldman for bringing us together to break down Project 2025 from every angle – no matter how engaged you are, you can still learn something from this series.”

    Homeland Security Subcommittee on Counterterrorism, Intelligence and Law Enforcement Ranking Member Seth Magaziner said, “Donald Trump’s Project 2025 will hand a future Trump administration nearly unlimited power to ban abortion, take away healthcare for people with preexisting conditions, and rip away the freedoms that Americans have fought hard for. Trump’s Project 2025 is dangerous, cruel, and out-of-touch with the needs of the American people. We will not let Trump and Congressional Republicans take us back.”

    House Bipartisan Task Force for Combating Antisemitism Co-Chair Kathy Manning said, “Project 2025 is simply a more detailed blueprint of Donald Trump’s extreme MAGA agenda that promises to roll back Americans’ basic rights and freedoms. Because of Donald Trump and the three extreme MAGA Justices he appointed to the Supreme Court to overturn Roe. v. Wade, one in three women of reproductive age lives in a state with a Trump abortion ban. Now, his extreme Project 2025 plans will attack reproductive freedoms even further by targeting abortion pills and contraception coverage, and threatening IVF treatments. Project 2025 would also ban the mailing of abortion medications, equipment, or materials, effectively creating a nationwide, backdoor abortion ban — without the approval of Congress.”

    Labor Caucus Co-Founder Donald Norcross said, “Project 2025 is a 920-page manifesto designed to tell every American how to live their life. If enacted into law, Project 2025 would destroy the 250-year-old system of checks and balances that make up our democracy and completely dismantle almost every labor standard that protects workers. As a union electrician and co-chair of the Labor Caucus, it pains me to see a document that would strip away worker protections and fair labor practices that working families have been fighting for decades. I’m proud to join Rep. Goldman in this video series to help explain the threat Project 2025 poses to American values, ideals, and freedoms.”

    Subcommittee on the Weaponization of the Federal Government Ranking Member Stacey Plaskett said, “Project 2025 is the playbook for Donald Trump’s second term, which will ensure that the few have power over the many and that the rule of law as we know it, is gone. It is a plan to ensure that the federal government no longer acts as a check on the greed and desire for absolute power that Trump and his cohort of friends share. In every way, Project 2025 will make Americans less safe and less free. Republicans know that these ideas are not popular with the people of America and that’s why they hide from the facts, obfuscate the truth and distract the public’s attention with wild claims to vilify minorities and keep us divided. It is imperative that we all do our part to ensure that Donald Trump is not allowed to enforce the clear and present danger that the Project 2025 master plan represents to American democracy.”

    American Federation of Teachers President Randi Weingarten said, Project 2025 is about institutionalizing Trumpism. It’s about going after educational opportunity, economic opportunity and equal opportunity. It’s about going after the legitimacy of elections. This is the stuff of demagogues and dictators, not democracies. This is not the promise of America. We can and must do better than this—for the sake of our families and the future of our republic.”

    Accountable.US President Caroline Ciccone said, “Project 2025 isn’t about serving the people; it’s about ensuring that political loyalty becomes the guiding rule. They want to replace our government’s independent watchdogs with partisan loyalists, dismantling checks and balances to consolidate power in the executive branch. With a captured Supreme Court and a weaponized Department of Justice, the next conservative administration would have all the tools they needed to drive America closer and closer to their idealized far-right dystopia, at the cost of our personal freedoms.”

    A third of all U.S adults say they regularly get their news from Facebook or YouTube, and nearly 20% report preferring to receive their news from social media. As more Americans turn to non-traditional platforms such as social media, YouTube, and online searches to stay informed Congressman Goldman is focused on ensuring that important information reaches all Americans in this rapidly transforming media landscape.

    In addition to Representatives Kamlager-Dove and Goldman, the following members of Congress are featured in the series: Congressional Equality Caucus Co-Chair Becca Balint (VT-AL), Pre-K and Child Care Caucus Co-Chair Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), Pro-Choice Caucus Task Force Chair Judy Chu (CA-28), Freshman Leadership Representative Jasmine Crockett (TX-30), Democratic Women’s Caucus Chair Lois Frankel (FL-22), Dads Caucus Founder and Chair Jimmy Gomez (CA-34), Homeland Security Subcommittee on Counterterrorism, Intelligence and Law Enforcement Ranking Member Seth Magaziner (RI-02), House Bipartisan Task Force for Combating Antisemitism Co-Chair Kathy Manning (NC-06), Labor Caucus Co-Founder Donald Norcross (NJ-01), Subcommittee on the Weaponization of the Federal Government Ranking Member Stacey Plaskett (VI-AL), and Sustainable Energy and Environment Coalition Co-Chair Paul Tonko (NY-20).

    Project 2025 is a comprehensive plan for the next conservative president to swiftly enact the most anti-democratic and archconservative agenda in the history of this country. It lays the groundwork for Donald Trump to seize power, gut checks and balances, and enact a radical agenda. It touches on every department and agency within the federal government.

    The Heritage Foundation, a right-wing think tank funded by shady dark money interests, has been plotting Project 2025, an unprecedented scheme to help the next conservative president quickly enact the most radical agenda in the history of the country. The plan is laying the groundwork for a new president to seize power and enact broad changes that are deeply unpopular with the American people. This includes vastly expanding the ability of the president to purge civil servants who are not sufficiently loyal to this extreme right-wing agenda.

    • Within the first 180 days of taking office, the plan calls for attacks on reproductive rights, the rule of law, and the expansion of the cruel and inhumane immigration policies from the Trump administration. Project 2025 is a comprehensive plan that would touch every department of the federal government and fundamentally reshape the lives of the American people. The Project’s four-pronged strategy that includes:
      • A laundry list of extreme policies to be enacted across the federal government;
      • A blueprint for how to use existing authority—or expand the power of the presidency—to implement right-wing policy proposals;
      • A database of right-wing ideologues who wholeheartedly endorse this power grab and far-right policies;
      • Training for staff so they can more efficiently enact this extreme agenda.

    While Project 2025 is being run out of the Heritage Foundation, its advisors include former Trump White House aides like Stephen Miller, and more than half the groups supporting the effort have received $21.5 million in funding from Leonard Leo’s dark money network.

    Congresswoman Kamlager-Dove is a member of the Stop Project 2025 Task Force.

     

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kamlager-Dove, Kim, Coons, and Tillis to Introduce Bicameral Legislation to Promote Protection of International Digital Freedom

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager California (37th District)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congresswomen Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37) and Young Kim (CA-40), alongside Senators Chris Coons (DE) and Thom Tillis (NC), announced plans to introduce the bicameral Advancing Digital Freedom Act of 2024, which would equip the U.S. State Department with the authorities to elevate digital freedom as a cornerstone of U.S. foreign policy and support its critical role in advancing democratic governance around the world.

    “Digital technology has both benefits and drawbacks when it comes to advancing democracy,” said Congresswoman Kamlager-Dove. “It can enable citizens to access information, share ideas, and organize while simultaneously allowing for authoritarian regimes to spread propaganda, enhance surveillance, and stifle free speech. We must ensure that digital technologies are used to strengthen democracy, not dismantle it. It is crucial for the United States to develop a comprehensive strategy to safeguard digital freedom worldwide and work with partners to implement this plan. Promoting human rights and democracy at home and abroad must remain a bipartisan issue, and I am proud to advance these priorities with a bipartisan, bicameral group of congressional colleagues.”

    “The Unholy Alliance, including the People’s Republic of China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea, relies on abusive surveillance technologies to restrict access to information and the outside world and to maintain their grip on power,” said Congresswoman Young Kim, Chair of the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on the Indo-Pacific. “To remain a global human rights leader, the United States cannot stand idly by as these authoritarian regimes use digital technologies and platforms to suppress innocent civilians, religious minorities, and political dissenters. I am proud to join Representative Kamlager-Dove and Senators Coons and Tillis to lead this bipartisan, bicameral effort to protect the right to international digital freedom. I’ll keep fighting to ensure the United States promotes global human rights and protects freedom-loving people around the world.”

    “As a global leader of human rights, the United States must deter authoritarian and illiberal states that are using advanced technologies to threaten human rights alongside our own national security,” said Senator Coons. “Protecting digital freedom abroad is a cornerstone of American foreign policy for the modern age, and that is why we must cooperate with like-minded countries to develop and deploy emerging technology in a manner that respects democracy and rule of law. As Co-Chair of the Senate Human Rights Caucus, I’m confident that this bill will help protect digital freedoms and counter global misinformation and disinformation in partnership with our allies.”

    “With increasing cyber threats and attacks on the horizon than ever before, working with our allies to counter them is all the more important,” said Senator Tillis. “Protecting and promoting digital freedom across the globe must be a priority, which is why I look forward to introducing this bipartisan legislation to ensure the Department of State continues to prioritize this as a cornerstone of U.S. foreign policy.”

    The right to freedom of expression has become a fault line between pro-democracy groups and authoritarian governments. Digital platforms, including social media, have been crucial tools for movements such as the Mahsa Amini protests in Iran or the Umbrella Movement in Hong Kong. However, autocratic governments have attempted to stifle these efforts by cracking down on digital freedom. Russia and China deploy digital tools to identify and silence dissidents, Iran routinely blocks access to thousands of websites conveying political content, and North Korea and Venezuela coordinate disinformation campaigns to undermine citizens’ access to credible information. To address such threats to digital freedom, the Advancing Digital Freedom Act would strengthen the United States’ role in leading efforts to ensure technology is used to uphold human rights, democratic values, and the rule of law.

    Specifically, the bill would:

    • Elevate digital freedom as a foremost foreign policy priority of the United States;
    • Empower the Coordinator for Digital Freedom in the State Department’s Bureau of Cyberspace and Digital Policy to lead global efforts to protect digital freedom, counter disinformation and misinformation, and advance democratic governance in the digital space;
    • Encourage the State Department to engage with foreign governments, nongovernmental organizations, and other actors to coordinate efforts to defend digital freedom against digital authoritarianism; and
    • Require the Bureau of Cyberspace and Digital Policy to submit an annual report to the Senate Foreign Relations Committee and the House Foreign Affairs Committee on the state of global digital freedom, including analysis of emerging and concerning trends impacting digital freedom.                                                                                                              

    The text of the bill is available here.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kamlager-Dove, Salazar Introduce Legislation to Simplify Visa Processing

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager California (37th District)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37) introduced H.R. 9545, the Visa Processing Improvement and Paperwork Reduction Act alongside Representative María Elvira Salazar (FL-27).

    Currently, our visa application and processing systems are outdated, duplicative, and waste crucial resources. This legislation will save the State Department countless hours of labor and thousands of dollars in postage and paper by keeping federal communications about visa applications online. It will also reduce requirements on families to mail physical copies of documents that have already been submitted online.

    The Visa Processing Improvement and Paperwork Reduction Act streamlines the visa processing system by eliminating the requirement to mail all signed communications from the applicant and from the Agency that are already sent electronically.

    “Excessive visa wait times have long plagued our broken immigration system, causing unnecessary heartache for many applicants,” said Congresswoman Kamlager-Dove. “Digitizing more aspects of the visa application process will eliminate redundant paperwork, speeding up visa processing times and reducing burdens on applicants. Simple reforms like this legislation can have outsized impacts on the immigration process. I am proud to partner with Representative Salazar to advance commonsense solutions in our immigration system.”

    “We have an opportunity to both improve government efficiency and reduce the burden on individuals navigating our complex immigration system,” said Representative Salazar. “The Visa Processing Improvement and Paperwork Reduction Act will save the State Department tons of time and money so they can process visa applications quicker and easier.”

    Previously, Reps. Kamlager-Dove and Salazar collaborated on the GRATEFUL Act, which was signed into law in 2023. This policy provided visas for locally employed U.S. embassy staff to immigrate to the U.S. after a career of service to the United States. These staff are critical to our diplomacy abroad, and securing this reform allows us to continue retaining and rewarding the best and brightest that serve the United States and advance our interests abroad.

    To read the full text of the bill, click here. To read a short summary of the legislation, click here.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: IMF Staff Reached Staff-level Agreement on the Reviews of the Rwanda’s Policy Coordination Instrument and Arrangement under Resilience and Sustainability Facility, and the Stand-by Credit Facility Arrangement

    Source: International Monetary Fund

    October 22, 2024

    End-of-Mission press releases include statements of IMF staff teams that convey preliminary findings after a visit to a country. The views expressed in this statement are those of the IMF staff and do not necessarily represent the views of the IMF’s Executive Board. Based on the preliminary findings of this mission, staff will prepare a report that, subject to management approval, will be presented to the IMF’s Executive Board for discussion and decision.

    • IMF staff and the Rwandan authorities reached staff-level agreement on policies needed to complete the fourth reviews of Rwanda’s Policy Coordination Instrument and program under the Resilience and Sustainability Facility, and the second review of the Stand-by Credit Facility arrangement.
    • Rwanda’s economic growth continues to be among the strongest in the Sub-Saharan African region, but fiscal and external vulnerabilities remain high. Recurrent shocks in recent years exacerbated internal and external imbalances, making it more challenging for the authorities to rebuild policy buffers.
    • To reduce vulnerabilities, contain inflation, and ensure debt sustainability, Rwanda needs strong fiscal consolidation, better domestic revenue mobilization, continued data-driven monetary policy, and exchange rate adjustments. Additionally, maintaining climate resilience and intensifying efforts to develop bankable climate projects are crucial.

    Washington, DC: From October 7 to October 20, 2024, an International Monetary Fund (IMF) team, led by Ruben Atoyan, discussed with the authorities’ policy priorities and progress on reforms within the context of the fourth reviews of Rwanda’s Policy Coordination Instrument (PCI) and Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF), and the second review of the Stand-by Credit Facility (SCF) arrangement. Consideration by the Board is tentatively scheduled for December 2024. Upon completion of the review by the Executive Board, Rwanda would have access to SDR 71.8 million (equivalent to about US$ 95.9 million) under the RSF and SDR 66.75 million (equivalent to about US$ 89.0 million) under the SCF.

    At the conclusion of the mission, Mr. Atoyan issued the following statement:

    “Rwanda’s growth momentum remained strong, notwithstanding the challenging external environment. Real GDP is projected to grow by 8.3 percent in 2024, driven by strong performance of the services, and construction sectors, and recovery in food crop production. Inflation stabilized within the central bank’s target range, owing to appropriately tight monetary policy and favorable developments in food prices. The current account deficit widened due to high capital goods imports and low coffee exports. The Rwandan franc depreciated by 6.6 percent against the US dollar in January-October, a necessary step towards facilitating the much-needed external adjustment. International reserves stood at 4.5 months of prospective imports at mid-2024, providing a buffer against external shocks.

    “Despite the challenging environment, macroeconomic policy performance through end-June 2024 remained in line with program objectives under the PCI/SCF arrangement. All quantitative targets were met, and reforms to enhance the transparency of public investments and strengthen FX market functioning are progressing well. The authorities’ commitment to implement climate-related reforms under the RSF arrangement remained strong, with measures to implement climate budget tagging, improve the climate resilience of public investment, adopt sustainability disclosure standards, and develop a green taxonomy being on track to be completed in the coming weeks.   

    “While Rwanda’s economic outlook continues to be positive, risks remain tilted to the downside. Deepening of geopolitical fragmentation, another spike in global energy and food prices, or slowdown in trading partners’ growth would weigh on the outlook and adversely affect the availability of external financing. As demonstrated by the poor harvests and floods last year, Rwanda’s dominantly rain-fed agriculture is highly exposed to climate shocks. The recent Marburg virus disease outbreak showed Rwanda’s vulnerability to infectious disease risks, but also the country’s strong capacity to respond to such events.

    “Recurrent shocks in recent years complicated the authorities’ objective to rebuild policy buffers. Fiscal consolidation has been slower than envisaged under the program, failing to halt the continued increase in the public debt-to-GDP ratio, which is expected to reach 80 percent of GDP in 2025. Increased access to concessional financing is welcomed as it creates an opportunity to implement critical reforms but does not substitute for domestic revenue mobilization. Accelerating domestic revenue mobilization, expenditure rationalization, and mitigating fiscal risks from state-owned enterprises will be critical to preserve Rwanda’s policy space to react to shocks and achieve its development objectives.

    “Monetary policy should anchor inflation around the center of the target band, while continued exchange rate flexibility will help absorb external shocks and support current account adjustment. Strengthening the FX intervention framework is needed to help develop the FX market and improve the effectiveness of monetary policy transmission. Monetary policy needs to remain forward looking and data-driven with a clear communication to anchor expectations.

    “The authorities have made significant progress in integrating climate considerations into macroeconomic policies. Rwanda is set to complete all RSF commitments six months ahead of schedule. However, the development of green projects and lending operations needs to be accelerated. With institutional reforms and a strong project pipeline, additional climate financing can be catalyzed, enhancing the RSF’s impact.

    “The mission is grateful for the authorities’ excellent cooperation, and candid and constructive discussions, and reaffirms the IMF’s support for the government’s efforts to implement its economic reform program.”

    Links:

    The Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF)

    The Policy Coordination Instrument (PCI)

    The Stand-by Credit Facility (SCF)

    Rwanda and IMF

    IMF Communications Department
    MEDIA RELATIONS

    PRESS OFFICER: Tatiana Mossot

    Phone: +1 202 623-7100Email: MEDIA@IMF.org

    @IMFSpokesperson

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI: NNIT A/S: NNIT adjusts 2024 financial outlook

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NNIT adjusts the 2024 financial outlook and now expects organic revenue growth to be around 6-7% (previously around 10%) and the Group operating profit margin to reach 6-7% before special items (previously 8-9%) on the back of unsatisfactory performance in Q3. An uplift in Q4 is expected based on improved transparency and a solid backlog for the remainder of the year following recent important contract wins.

    Based on preliminary and unaudited financial figures, NNIT generated Q3 2024 Group revenue of DKK 445 million (2023: DKK 453 million) and Group operating profit of DKK 17 million before special items (2023: DKK 26 million) corresponding to organic growth of -1.6% (2023: 11.1%) and a Group operating profit margin of 3.9% before special items (2023: 5.8%) in the quarter. For the first nine months of 2024, Group revenue was DKK 1,382 million (2023: DKK 1,290 million) with Group operating profit of DKK 73 million before special items (2023: DKK 72 million) for organic growth of 5.6% (2023: 11.3%) and a Group operating profit margin of 5.3% before special items (2023: 5.6%).

    The outlook adjustment follows an unexpected revenue decline in Region Europe and Region US in Q3, which was impacted by a moderate market slowdown resulting in projects being postponed or put on hold, combined with prolonged challenges in the data migration business. As one of several levers to accelerate profitability in the second half of 2024, NNIT recalibrated capacity in both Europe and the US in Q3, and additional adjustments are made to align internal capacity with market demand. NNIT is executing as planned on the remaining initiatives already taken to accelerate profitability, which include securing important wins in the US and Europe, leveraging the full effect of the turnaround in Asia, completing crucial internal projects and benefiting from a lower cost run-rate after relocation of offices. These key levers are contributing positively to profitability in 2024 and beyond.

    NNIT will publish the Q3 2024 trading statement on November 5, 2024 as planned.

    Contact for further information
    Carsten Ringius
    EVP & CFO
    Tel: +45 3077 8888
    carr@nnit.com

    Media relations
    Tina Joanne Hindsbo
    Media Relations Manager
    Tel: +45 3077 9578
    tnjh@nnit.com

    NNIT is a leading provider of IT solutions to life sciences internationally, and to the public and enterprise sectors in Denmark

    We focus on high complexity industries and thrive in environments where regulatory demands and complexity are high.

    We advise and build sustainable digital solutions that work for the patients, citizens, employees, end users or customers.

    We strive to build unmatched excellence in the industries we serve, and we use our domain expertise to represent a business first approach – strongly supported by a selection of partner technologies, but always driven by business needs rather than technology.

    NNIT consists of group company NNIT A/S and subsidiaries SCALES, Excellis Health Solutions and SL Controls. Together, these companies employ more than 1,700 people in Europe, Asia and USA.

    Read more at http://www.nnit.com

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    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Federal Complaint Charges Chicago Man With Illegally Possessing Machine Gun Conversion Device

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

    CHICAGO — A man has been charged in federal court with illegally possessing a machine gun conversion device in his Chicago residence last week.

    Federal law enforcement on Thursday executed a court-authorized search of LATAVION JOHNSON’s residence on the South Side of Chicago and discovered the conversion device in a tool bag in Johnson’s bedroom, according to a criminal complaint filed in U.S. District Court in Chicago. When equipped to a firearm, the conversion device, also known as a “Glock switch” or “auto sear,” allows the gun to fire multiple rounds with a single pull of the trigger.

    The complaint alleges that Johnson posted videos on social media showing himself possessing a firearm equipped with a conversion device.  Johnson also allegedly posted a photograph of a conversion device next to a stack of $20 bills.

    The complaint charges Johnson, 22, with one count of possession of a machine gun, which is punishable by a maximum sentence of ten years in federal prison.  Johnson was arrested on Friday and remains in federal custody.  A detention hearing is set for Wednesday at 11:00 a.m. before U.S. Magistrate Judge Sheila M. Finnegan.  The U.S. Attorney’s Office will seek Johnson’s continued pre-trial detention.

    The complaint and arrest were announced by Morris Pasqual, Acting United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, Christopher Amon, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago Field Division of the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and Larry Snelling, Superintendent of the Chicago Police Department.  The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Saqib M. Hussain.

    The ongoing investigation is being conducted in coordination with ATF’s Crime Gun Intelligence Center of Chicago.  The CGIC is a centralized law enforcement hub that focuses exclusively on investigating and preventing gun violence in Chicago and throughout northern Illinois.  The CGIC is an interagency collaboration that brings together – under one roof – federal, state, and local law enforcement officers, prosecutors, and intelligence analysts to move quickly to investigate and prosecute violent crimes.

    Holding illegal firearm possessors accountable through federal prosecution is also a centerpiece of Project Safe Neighborhoods, the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction strategy.  In the Northern District of Illinois, the U.S. Attorney’s Office and law enforcement partners have deployed the PSN program to attack a broad range of violent crime issues facing the district, particularly firearm offenses.

    The public is reminded that a complaint is not evidence of guilt.  The defendant is presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial at which the government has the burden of proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former CEO of Abercrombie & Fitch and Two Other Individuals Charged with Sex Trafficking and Interstate Prostitution

    Source: United States Department of Justice (Human Trafficking)

    Defendants Allegedly Arranged for Dozens of Men to Travel to New York and Hotels Around the World for Sex Events

    A 16-count indictment was unsealed today in federal court in Central Islip charging former Abercrombie & Fitch Co. (Abercrombie) Chief Executive Officer Michael Jeffries, along with Matthew Smith and James Jacobson, with sex trafficking and engaging in interstate prostitution.  The indictment alleges that between December 2008 and March 2015, Jeffries, Smith and Jacobson used a combination of force, fraud and coercion to traffic men while operating a prostitution enterprise.  All three defendants were arrested this morning. Jeffries and Smith are scheduled to make their initial appearances this afternoon in federal court in the Southern District of Florida, and Jacobson is scheduled to make his initial appearance this afternoon in federal court in St. Paul, Minnesota. They will be arraigned in the Eastern District of New York at a later date.

    Breon Peace, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, James E. Dennehy, Assistant Director in Charge, New York Field Office (FBI) and Thomas G. Donlon, Interim Commissioner, New York City Police Department (NYPD), announced the arrests and charges.

    “As alleged in the indictment, former CEO of Abercrombie Michael Jeffries, his partner Matthew Smith and their recruiter James Jacobson used their money and influence to prey on vulnerable men for their own sexual gratification,” stated United States Attorney Peace.  “Today’s arrests show that my Office and our law enforcement partners will not rest until anyone who engages in sex trafficking or interstate prostitution, regardless of their wealth or power, is brought to justice.”

    Mr. Peace expressed his thanks to the FBI Miami Field Office, West Palm Beach Resident Agency; the FBI Milwaukee Field Office, Eau Clair Resident Agency; the Barron County, Wisconsin, Sheriff’s Office; and the United States Attorney’s Offices for the Southern District of Florida and the District of Minnesota, for their assistance with the case.

    “Today’s indictment highlights the alleged abhorrent behavior of Michael Jeffries, Matthew Smith, and James Jacobson.  The defendants allegedly preyed on the hopes and dreams of their victims by exploiting, abusing, and silencing them to fulfill their own desires, with insidious secret intentions.  This case is yet another example of individuals using their wealth, power, or reputation to manipulate and control others for their personal gratification.   The FBI and our partners won’t allow these criminal acts to go unchecked, we remain committed to investigating and bringing these cases forward to prosecution,” stated FBI Assistant Director in Charge Dennehy.

    “Sex trafficking remains a pressing issue nationwide and New York City is no exception,” stated NYPD Interim Commissioner Donlon. “Through our continued partnership with the FBI and the U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, the NYPD is able to enhance our investigations and secure convictions. Importantly, our close collaboration also allows us to connect survivors of this abhorrent crime with the necessary support and services they deserve.”

    From approximately 1992 to 2014, Jeffries was the CEO of Abercrombie, a fashion clothing retailer that owned and operated retail stores around the world.  Smith was Jeffries’ life partner.  The indictment alleges that Jacobson was employed by Jeffries and Smith to recruit, interview and hire men to perform commercial sex acts for Jeffries and Smith.

    As set forth in the indictment, from approximately 2008 to 2015, Jeffries, Smith and Jacobson, together with others, operated an international sex trafficking and prostitution enterprise.  Jeffries and Smith not only relied on their financial resources and Jeffries’ power as the CEO of Abercrombie, but also on numerous others, including Jacobson and a network of employees, contractors and security professionals, to operate this venture, which was dedicated to fulfilling their sexual desires.

    As further alleged in the indictment, Jeffries and Smith paid for dozens of men to travel within the United States and internationally to various locations, including the Hamptons on Long Island, New York City and hotels in England, France, Italy, Morocco and Saint Barthélémy, for the purpose of engaging in commercial sex acts with Jeffries, Smith and others (the “Sex Events”). Jacobson allegedly traveled throughout the United States and internationally to recruit and interview men for the Sex Events.  During “tryouts” of potential candidates, Jacobson typically required that the candidates first engage in commercial sex acts with him.

    The indictment alleges that Jeffries, Smith and Jacobson used coercive, fraudulent and deceptive tactics in connection with their sex trafficking and prostitution venture. For example, among other things, Jeffries, Smith, Jacobson and others acting at their direction:

    • Employed a referral system and interview process that did not inform men of the details of the Sex Events before they attended, including the full extent and nature of the sexual activity that would be required of the men at the Sex Events;
    • Caused men to believe that attending the Sex Events could yield modeling opportunities with Abercrombie or otherwise benefit their careers;
    • Caused men to believe that not complying with requests for certain acts during the Sex Events could harm their careers;
    • Required men to relinquish their personal items, including clothing, wallets and cellular phones, and store them in an inaccessible location during the Sex Events;
    • Required men to sign non-disclosure agreements;
    • On more than one occasion when men did not or could not consent, Jeffries and Smith violated the bodily integrity of the men by subjecting them, or continuing to subject them, to invasive sexual and violent contact by body parts and other objects;
    • On more than one occasion, Jeffries and Smith directed others to inject, or personally injected, men with an erection-inducing substance for the purpose of causing the men to engage in sex acts the men were incapable or unwilling to engage in.

    Many of the victims, at least one of whom was as young as 19 years old, were financially vulnerable and aspired to become models in the fashion industry.  Some victims recruited by the defendants had previously worked at Abercrombie stores or had modeled for Abercrombie.

    If convicted of the sex trafficking charge, the defendants each face a maximum sentence of life imprisonment and a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years’ imprisonment.  If convicted of the interstate prostitution charges, the defendants face a maximum sentence of 20 years’ imprisonment.

    The charges in the indictment are allegations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

    If you believe you are victim of a crime perpetrated by Michael Jeffries, Matthew Smith or James Jacobson, please contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI.

    The government’s case is being handled by the Office’s Civil Rights Section and the Criminal Section of the Office’s Long Island Division.  Assistant United States Attorneys Megan Farrell, Erin Reid and Philip Pilmar are in charge of the prosecution with the assistance of Bilingual Victim Witness Specialist Stephanie Marroquin and Fact Witness Services Unit Supervisor/Victim Witness Coordinator Huda Abouchaer.

    The Defendants:

    MICHAEL JEFFRIES
    Age: 80
    West Palm Beach, FL

    MATTHEW SMITH
    Age: 61
    West Palm Beach, FL

    JAMES JACOBSON
    Age:  71
    Rice Lake, WI

    E.D.N.Y. Docket No. 24-CR-423 (NJC)

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Brooklyn Man Admits Conspiracy to Commit Child Sex Trafficking

    Source: United States Department of Justice (Human Trafficking)

    NEWARK, N.J. – A Brooklyn, New York, man today admitted his role in a conspiracy to commit child sex trafficking, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced.

    Soauib Butcher, 30, of Brooklyn, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Michael E. Farbiarz in Newark federal court to one count of conspiracy to commit sex trafficking of a minor.

    According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:

    In August 2019, Butcher brought the victim by train to New York City, where he instructed the victim to perform oral sex for money on a rooftop in Brooklyn. Several days later, Butcher brought the victim to Elizabeth, New Jersey, where, from August 2019 to January 2020, the victim stayed with Butcher and a conspirator in a series of motel rooms. The conspirator posted advertisements depicting the victim on escort websites and, together with Butcher, arranged for customers to come to the motels to have sex with the victim in exchange for money.

    Conspiracy to commit sex trafficking of a minor carries a maximum term of life in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentencing is scheduled for Feb. 19, 2025.

    U.S. Attorney Sellinger credited special agents of the FBI, under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge Nelson I. Delgado in Newark, with the investigation.

    The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Katherine M. Romano of the Health Care Fraud Unit and Aaron L. Webman of the Economic Crimes Unit in Newark.

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Meloë Kacenelenbogen Eyes the Future of Air Quality, Climate Research

    Source: NASA

    A mentor of research scientist Meloë Kacenelenbogen once shared a sentiment from French author André Gide: “You cannot discover new oceans unless you have the courage to lose sight of the shore.” Kacenelenbogen pushes beyond her comfort zone to explore the unknown.
    Name: Meloë S. KacenelenbogenFormal Job Classification: Research scientistOrganization: Climate and Radiation Laboratory, Science Directorate (Code 613)

    What do you do and what is most interesting about your role here at Goddard?
    I study the impact of aerosols — suspended particles from, for example, wildfire smoke, desert dust, urban pollution, and volcanic eruptions — on air quality and the Earth’s climate. I use space, air, and ground-based observations, as well as models.
    Why did you become a scientist? What is your educational background?
    I never made a deliberate choice to become a scientist. I started with very little confidence as a child and then built up my confidence by achieving things I thought I could not do. I chose the hardest fields to work on along the way. Science looked hard and so did fluid mechanics, remote sensing, and atmospheric physics. I have failed many times, but I always learn something and move on. I do get scared and maybe even paralyzed for a day or two, but I never let fear or failure immobilize me for long.
    I was born in Maryland, but my family moved to France when I was young, so I am fluent in French. I have a bachelor’s and master’s degree in mechanical engineering, and physical methods in remote sensing from the Université Pierre et Marie Curie (Paris VI, Jussieu). In 2008, I got a Ph.D. in atmospheric physics for applying satellite remote sensing to air quality at the Université des Sciences et Technologies de Lille (USTL), France.
    What are some of your career highlights?
    After my Ph.D., I worked for the Atmospheric Lidar Group at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC), on spaceborne and ground-based lidars. In 2009, I got a NASA Post-doctoral Program (NPP) fellowship at the agency’s Ames Research Center in California’s Silicon Valley, where I worked for 13 years on space-based, aircraft-based, and ground-based atmospheric aerosol vertical distribution and aerosol typing.
    In 2022, I came to work at the Climate and Radiation Lab at Goddard.
    What is most interesting about aerosols?
    Aerosols are very topical because they have a huge impact on the air we breathe and our Earth’s climate. The smaller the aerosol, the deeper it can get into our lungs. Among other sources, aerosols can come from cars, factories, or wildfires. We all know that wildfires are becoming bigger and more frequent. They are expected to happen even more frequently in the future due to climate change. Both when I was living in California and here in Maryland, I have experienced first-hand choking from the wildfire smoke. I will always remember how apocalyptic it felt back in the summer of 2020 in California when wildfire smoke was paired with COVID confinement, and the sky turned Mars-like orange.
    Please tell us about your involvement with the Atmosphere Observing System (AOS)?
    I am incredibly lucky to be able to contribute to the next generation of NASA’s satellites. I am working on AOS, which will observe aerosols, clouds, convention, and precipitation in the Earth’s atmosphere. I am part of the team that is helping design several instruments and algorithms.
    My role is to connect this spaceborne observing system to all our other space, ground, and air-based measurements at the time of launch. We are making a mesh of observations to address the science questions, run the algorithms, and validate the spaceborne measurements. I am constantly pushed to expand my horizon and my own knowledge.
    Why do you enjoy always challenging yourself intellectually?
    I started that way. I had no confidence, so I felt that the only way I could build my confidence was to try doing things that scared me. I may sometimes be a little scared, but I am never bored.
    What did you learn from your mentors?
    A few years ago, a mentor shared a quote from André Gide with me that encapsulates what we are talking about: “You cannot discover new oceans unless you have the courage to lose sight of the shore.” In other words, it is OK, maybe preferable, to be out of my comfort zone to explore the unknown as scary as it may be.
    Along the way, it has been extremely important for me to deliberately choose mentors. To me, a good mentor has earned the respect of all who have worked with them, is uplifting, reassuring, and gives me the invaluable guidance and support that I need. I deliberately try to surround myself with the right people. I have been very, very fortunate to find incredible people to encourage me.
    As a mentor, what do you advise?
    I tell them to deliberately choose their mentors. I also tell them that it is OK to be uncomfortable. Being uncomfortable is the nature of our field. To do great things, we often need to be uncomfortable.
    Why do you enjoy working on a team?
    I love working on teams, I love to feed off the positive energy of a team whether I lead it or am part of it. In my field, teamwork with a positive energy is incredibly satisfying. Everybody feeds off everybody’s energy, we go further, are stronger, and achieve more. This may not happen often, but when it does it makes it all worth it.
    What are the happiest moments in your career?
    I am always happiest when the team publishes a paper and all our efforts, are encapsulated in that one well-wrapped and satisfying peer-reviewed paper that is then accessible to everyone online. Every paper we publish feels, to me, the same as a Ph.D. in terms of the work, pain, energy, and then, finally, satisfaction involved.
    What do you hope to achieve in your career?
    I want to have been a major contributor to the mission by the time the AOS satellites launch.
    What do you do for fun?
    I do mixed martial arts. I love the ocean, diving, and sailing. I also love going to art galleries, especially to see impressionist paintings to reconnect with my Parisian past.

    Who is your favorite author?
    I love Zweig, Kafka, Dostoyevsky, Saint-Exupéry, and Kessel. The latter two wrote a lot about aviators in the early 1900s back in the days when it was new and very dangerous. Those pilots, like Mermoz, were my heroes growing up.
    Who would you like to thank?
    I would like to thank my family for being my rock.
    What are your guiding principles?
    To paraphrase Dostoevsky, everyone is responsible to all men for all men and for everything. I have a strong sense of purpose, pride, justice, and honor. This is how I try to live my life for better or for worse.
    By Elizabeth M. JarrellNASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center, Greenbelt, Md.

    Conversations With Goddard is a collection of Q&A profiles highlighting the breadth and depth of NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center’s talented and diverse workforce. The Conversations have been published twice a month on average since May 2011. Read past editions on Goddard’s “Our People” webpage.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Neguse Announces Juana Mendoza as Winner of 2024 Polly Baca Raíces Fuertes Community Leader Award in Honor of Hispanic Heritage Month

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Joe Neguse (D-Co 2)

    The Colorado Congressman launched the award in 2020 to honor committed service to Latino communities in the 2nd District.

    Lafayette, CO — Today, Congressman Joe Neguse and his staff announced Juana Mendoza is the recipient of the 2024 Polly Baca Raíces Fuertes Community Leader Award while at Downtown Longmont’s Día de Muertos Family Celebration. Juana has served the people of Boulder County for more than 30 years, providing critical support to often underserved communities and to families of diverse backgrounds through her work at the Office of Housing and Human Services and the Case Management and Community Outreach Division. 
     
    “The Honorable Polly Baca devoted her life to serving others, and as we come together to celebrate the rich and diverse cultures, traditions, and histories that shape Colorado’s vibrant Latino community, I can think of no better recipient of this year’s award than Juana Mendoza. Her unwavering dedication to ensuring that people of all backgrounds have access to life-changing programs that pave the way for success, and her tireless work and passion, continue to inspire countless Coloradans,” said Congressman Neguse.
     
    Each year, the Polly Baca Raíces Fuertes Community Service Award honors individuals who represent the qualities of service to others and the uplifting of the Latino community that former State Senator Polly Baca embodies. Rep. Neguse established the award in 2020 to recognize an exemplary leader in the 2nd Congressional District who best exhibits commitment to the service of others. 
     
    About Juana Mendoza: 
     
    Juana Mendoza devoted more than three decades of service to the families and communities of Boulder County. She has an unwavering commitment to ensuring that people of all backgrounds, particularly those in the Latino community, have access to programs that help them achieve success. She played a critical role in shaping Boulder County’s Early Intervention Team, working as an Early Intervention Support Specialist for 17 years. In this role, she promoted child well-being and prevented abuse and neglect by serving the whole family.
     
    Throughout her career, Juana went above and beyond to provide life-changing support to underserved families. She often extended herself beyond traditional business hours, office settings, job descriptions, and the standard lifecycle of a case, nurturing and maintaining thriving intergenerational relationships with children and families.
     
    As a mentor to countless social workers, public servants, and leaders in Boulder County, Juana consistently led by example. Even in her retirement, she continues to serve the people and community she loves by volunteering to help victims of human trafficking and people living with addictions in Boulder County.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Bergman & Michigan Republican Colleagues Demand Accountability After Chinese Nationals Breach U.S. Military Bases

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jack Bergman (MI-1)

    Last week, Representative Jack Bergman was joined by fellow Michigan Republican Members of Congress in sending a letter to Department of Defense (DoD) Secretary Lloyd Austin, demanding answers and accountability after several breaches of military bases by Chinese nationals.

    This letter comes after federal prosecutors charged five Chinese nationals on October 2, 2024 with crimes in connection to trespassing on the Camp Grayling training facility during Northern Strike – one of DOD’s largest reserve component readiness exercises.

    As the Members explained, this security breach was not an isolated incident:

    “In recent years, Chinese nationals have been found trespassing at military installations and other sensitive sites across the U.S., including a Naval station in Florida, a shipyard in Virginia, a Marine Corps base in California, and an arctic warfare training base in Alaska. The alarming rise in such breaches suggests a coordinated effort by the Chinese Communist Party to gauge the security of sites critical to U.S. national security, potentially in anticipation for an attack from within the homeland.”

    “We know that weakness only invites aggression, which is why my colleagues and I are demanding swift action from our Defense Department to review and bolster the security of our sensitive sites. With a raging border crisis and a resulting increase in Chinese national encounters at our southern border, our Nation can’t afford inaction on this issue. We must ensure accountability from the DoD to avoid any further incidents that could embolden and inform our enemies,” Rep. Bergman stated.

    “After the disturbing arrests of five Chinese nationals outside of Camp Grayling, Michiganders deserve answers,” said Rep. Tim Walberg. “I’m proud to join my Michigan Republican colleagues in demanding these answers and accountability from the Department of Defense. Beyond this, we cannot allow our colleges and universities to be used by adversaries to undermine our national security.”

    “China is our greatest geopolitical threat, and the repeated attempts by Chinese nationals to gain access to American military installations across the country are incredibly alarming,” said Rep. Lisa McClain. “The incident at Camp Grayling was not a one-off event, and the Department of Defense needs to improve its security protocols to prevent further incursions and national security risks.  We need answers from the DoD on how they plan to ensure the integrity and protection of our installations.”

    “This incident demands answers from the Defense Department. It also demands answers from Governor Whitmer. She is the commander in chief of the Michigan National Guard, and she has yet to act or comment on this security threat against our men and women in uniform. Finally, U-M must end its joint research institute with Shanghai Jiao Tong University, the program these individuals were a part of when they came to Michigan,” Rep. John Moolenaar stated.

    Rep. Bill Huizenga added, “The overt attempts by the CCP to weaponize its diaspora community to undermine US national security must be addressed. This is no longer a theoretical exercise. The University of Michigan has now been used on multiple occasions as a proxy for nefarious CCP activity. These actions demonstrate that Congress must re-examine the relationship between American colleges and universities and CCP entities.”

    “The Biden-Harris Administration has failed our national security, and the crisis at Camp Grayling is the most recent example. Our enemies no longer fear us, thanks to this administration. Their open borders and weak-on-China policies have emboldened our peer adversaries. The Department of Defense must provide us with an accurate and clear assessment of the incident to reassure our fellow Americans and Michiganders,” Rep. John James concluded.

    Read the full letter here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Updated vaccines for influenza, COVID-19 available throughout B.C.

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    People who are already registered in the provincial Get Vaccinated system will automatically receive an invitation to book their influenza and COVID-19 immunization online when they become due.

    Those who are not registered yet are encouraged to do so by visiting:
    https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/covid-19/vaccine/register

    Although booking through the Get Vaccinated system is the most efficient way to access the vaccines, people can also phone the provincial call centre (toll-free) to book or ask questions about their influenza and or COVID-19 immunizations: 1 833 838-2323

    Seniors will continue to receive free enhanced influenza vaccines, which offer better protection against influenza than standard-dose vaccines. This is because they stimulate stronger immune responses to compensate for the natural weakening of the immune system that occurs with age. A stronger immune response can lead to better protection against influenza.

    The National Advisory Committee on Immunization recommends people get the updated COVID-19 vaccine this fall, or six months since their most recent COVID-19 vaccine dose or infection, whichever is later.

    For influenza, public-health officials look to the influenza season in the Southern Hemisphere to help anticipate the influenza season in the Northern Hemisphere. Data from the Southern Hemisphere shows children were more significantly affected this past season. Research and data show the recent viral respiratory illness season varied in severity, timing and duration across regions.

    Immunization-related protection against influenza varies from season to season because the influenza viruses continue to change. As a result, circulating influenza viruses may or may not be well matched to the seasonal influenza vaccine produced for use in the Northern Hemisphere.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Supporting Alberta’s growing communities

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    [embedded content]

    Many of Alberta’s cities and towns are experiencing population growth that increases the demand on public infrastructure needs such as roads, bridges and water treatment systems. To help municipalities experiencing population growth-related pressures on public infrastructure, Alberta’s government has introduced the Local Growth and Sustainability Grant (LGSG), providing $60 million over three years to help meet this challenge.

    “We have heard clearly from our municipal partners that population growth and expanding industrial and commercial activity, though good for local economies, are also putting significant pressure on public infrastructure in some Alberta communities. The LGSG is designed to bring some relief to recent growth pressures while attracting new investment that provides jobs for Albertans and helps to keep our provincial economy thriving.”

    Ric McIver, Minister of Municipal Affairs

    As a complement to Alberta’s other existing infrastructure programs, such as the Local Government Fiscal Framework, the LGSG is an application-based program that will be open to municipalities experiencing significant growth and related infrastructure pressures. The program will also support municipalities seeking to capitalize on specific economic development opportunities.

    The LGSG has two components. The growth component (approximately $15 million in 2024-25) is meant to help mid-sized communities with populations between 10,000 and 200,000 meet growth-related infrastructure needs such as vital roadways. The sustainability component (approximately $5 million in 2024-25) is meant to help smaller communities with populations fewer than 10,000 address pressing health or safety issues, such as water treatment.

    “Our province is growing, and I am proud to see Alberta’s government make yet another investment to create jobs, improve our communities and grow our local economy. I’m excited to see the opportunities ahead for growing municipalities like our city.”

    Nathan Neudorf, MLA for Lethbridge-East

    “Like many Alberta municipalities, Lethbridge is experiencing growth pressures. The Local Growth and Sustainability Grant offers essential funding opportunities for our priority projects, such as expanding the Wastewater Treatment Plant and enhancing efforts to recruit more healthcare workers. We are grateful to the province for introducing this new funding stream, and we look forward to submitting competitive proposals that ensure a sustainable and healthy community for our residents.”

    Blaine Hyggen, mayor of Lethbridge

    Applications for the LGSG are now open and close on Nov. 29.

    Quick facts

    • Projects funded under the growth component will be cost-shared with the applicant municipal government.  Growth component funding will provide up to 50 per cent of project costs.
    • In the 2025-26 fiscal year, municipalities will receive more than $820 million, an increase of over 13 per cent from Budget 2024.

    Related information

    For more, visit http://www.Alberta.ca/local-growth-and-sustainability-grant

    Multimedia

    • Watch the news conference

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Victim named in Farringdon murder investigation

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Met officers have named a man who died following a stabbing in Farringdon.

    Abdul-Latif Pouget, aged 20 from Camden, sadly died in hospital on the morning of 21 October after being stabbed.

    An investigation was launched after police were called to Back Hill, EC1 at 21:36hrs on Friday, 18 October, following reports of a moped colliding with a wall.

    While paramedics from the London Ambulance Service were treating Abdul-Latif, they found he also had stab injuries. He was taken to hospital but sadly died. His family are aware and being supported by specialist officers.

    Oguzcan Dereli, 26 (08.04.98) of Islington, was arrested on Sunday, 20 October and charged with murder the following day – he appeared at Highbury Corner Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, 22 October and was remanded in custody to next appear at the Old Bailey on Thursday, 24 October.

    Anyone with information on this incident is asked to call 101 or ‘X’ @MetCC and quote reference CAD 8294/18Oct.

    Alternatively, you can also provide information anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or visit crimestoppers-uk.org.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Houlahan Receives Re-Opening Plan from IRS After Demanding Answers on Reading Office Closure

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA)

    Houlahan Receives Re-Opening Plan from IRS After Demanding Answers on Reading Office Closure

    Reading, October 22, 2024

    READING, PA – Today, Representative Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA) announced that the Internal Revenue Service shared a re-opening plan for its Reading, PA Taxpayer Assistance Center (TAC) that has been closed since early July. The TAC is currently open for taxpayer services three days a week and, starting December 30th, the IRS expects it will resume full five-day service. 

    In July, Houlahan sent a letter to IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel sharing her concern about the extended closure of the Taxpayer Assistance Center in Reading. This center, located just one floor below Houlahan’s own district office, provides vital services and accessibility to her constituents in Pennsylvania’s Sixth Congressional District. 

    In her letter, Houlahan emphasized the importance of the Reading TAC to the community and the need for in-person services for people who cannot access tax law assistance over the phone. “As you know, in-person services are critical for disadvantaged, older, or disabled individuals who may be unable to access these services online or over the phone. In-person assistance is especially necessary in the City of Reading, where the poverty rate is 29.4% and nearly 20% of residents live with a disability. I urge you to re-open the Reading TAC as soon as possible,” wrote Houlahan.  

    In September, Houlahan received a response from Commissioner Werfel, who stated that the closure occurred due to the attrition of two employees. Werfel also shared that the IRS was enlisting the help of employee volunteers to resume three-day service until the office is fully staffed and the agency’s commitment to opening the office as soon as feasibly possible. “I appreciate Commissioner Werfel’s response and transparency regarding the center’s re-opening. I am grateful that my letter brought eyes, attention, and prioritization to the importance of the in-person Taxpayer Assistance Center in Reading,” said Houlahan. 

    Additionally, members of Houlahan’s team have met with IRS staff on multiple occasions to discuss the center’s re-opening. The recent updates from the IRS are as follows:  

    A temporary employee is present at the Reading TAC to meet with taxpayers three days a week. Hours of operation are Tuesday: 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Wednesday: 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and Thursday: 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.  

    Houlahan is an Air Force veteran, an engineer, a serial entrepreneur, an educator, and a nonprofit leader. She represents Pennsylvania’s 6th Congressional District, which encompasses Chester County and southern Berks County. She serves on the House Armed Services Committee and the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence. She is the recipient of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s Abraham Lincoln Leadership for America Award which “recognizes members who demonstrate the bipartisan leadership and constructive governing necessary to move our country forward” and the Congressional Management Foundation’s 2022 Democracy Award for best Constituent Services in Congress. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: CONGRESSMAN JOE MORELLE TAKES ACTION TO ADDRESS CHILDCARE CRISIS, SUPPORT WORKING FAMILIES

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Joe Morelle (NY-25)

    Outlines legislation to lower the cost of childcare and ensure it is accessible for all parents

    October 22, 2024 (Rochester, N.Y.)—Today, Congressman Joe Morelle was joined by the YWCA of Rochester and Monroe County and the Children’s Agenda to announce legislation he supports to ensure quality, affordable childcare is accessible for all working families.

    “I hear every day from parents in our community who are struggling to find safe, reliable, accessible, and affordable childcare. This is a crisis, and we need decisive action to ease the burden on working families,” said Congressman Joe Morelle. “That’s why I’m leading the charge to enact legislation that will reduce the exorbitant cost of childcare, get more children into high-quality programs, and ease the burden on families. I look forward to continuing my work alongside organizations like The Children’s Agenda and the YWCA to support families in our community.”

    “Our commitment to advocating for quality, affordable childcare is unwavering,” said Dr. Myra Henry, President and CEO of YWCA of Rochester and Monroe County. “Access to reliable childcare is crucial for the stability and success for many of the families we serve. The ability to secure quality childcare and early education opportunities for mothers of young children in our programs is often a real struggle.  By supporting efforts to make childcare and early education accessible and affordable, we aim to build a stronger, more inclusive community where parents can be proud of the nurturing support they are providing for their children to thrive.”

    “Every day, families in our community are forced to make impossible choices between their jobs and their children’s care. Quality, affordable childcare should be a right, not a privilege,” said Stevie Vargas, Director of Campaigns & Organizing with The Children’s Agenda. “The legislation Congressman Morelle supports is a critical step toward ensuring all working families have access to the childcare they need to thrive. At The Children’s Agenda, we are committed to advocating for policies that prioritize children’s well-being and give parents the support they deserve. Together, we can create a future where no family is left struggling to find safe and reliable care.”

    Last July, Congressman Morelle warned of an impending “childcare cliff” and outlined immediate actions he supported to restore federal support for parents and childcare centers. Unfortunately, over the last 15 months, Republicans in Congress have ignored the needs of working families and refused to allocate the resources required for these programs, and the impacts of their negligence are being felt across the country.

    Last month, the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago reported American families living below the poverty line spent more than one-quarter of their annual income on childcare, and the cost is only continuing to rise. In New York State, another report from the Century Foundation found the cost of childcare has increased by almost 50 percent since 2019, with the average price for an infant at a childcare center now hovering around $19,500 per year or $1,625 per month.

    Congressman Morelle has fought to address this crisis and bring down the cost of childcare by supporting the following legislation:

    • The Child Care for Working Families Act—legislation to help ensure universal access to high-quality childcare by mandating federal investment to establish and support a network of locally-run Child Care and Early Learning Centers and Family Child Care Homes and ensuring no one pays more than 7% of their income on childcare;
    • The After Hours Child Care Act—legislation to establish a pilot program and explore increasing the capacity of childcare providers to provide services to families in which a parent is working nontraditional work hours (e.g., before 9:00 a.m., after 5:00 p.m., or on a Saturday or Sunday);
    • The Child Care Investment Act—legislation to increase the employer-provided child care tax credit, the amount excludable from gross income for dependent care flexible spending accounts, and makes the household and dependent care tax credit refundable.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Top comedian highlights the work of foster carers

    Source: City of York

    Published Tuesday, 22 October 2024

    A top stand-up comedian highlighted the life-changing work that foster carers do in a gig in York earlier this month (13 October).

    Kiri Pritchard McLean has spoken about her own experience as a foster carer for the first time during her current show, Peacock.

    Better known nationally as the Star of 8 out of 10 Cats Does Countdown, Have I Got News For You and QI, as well as hosting Live at the Apollo and fronting the Radio 4 panel show Best Medicine, Kiri hasn’t even told the children in her care that she’s a comedian.

    Cllr Bob Webb, the council’s Executive Member for Children and Young People, said:

    It’s fantastic to see such a well-known and loved comedian like Kiri highlighting the life changing work foster carers do.

    Fostering can be such a rewarding experience and we’d always welcome more foster carers in York to provide safe, loving homes for local children and young people. We welcome people from all backgrounds and we’d love to hear from anyone who thinks fostering might be for them.”

    A York foster carer who attended the performance, said:

    It’s great to see someone combining a high-profile role as a stand-up comedian with fostering, sharing their experiences with audiences across the country.

    “Fostering certainly has its challenges, but the rewards from helping children and young people are life changing.”

    For more information in fostering in York visit our fostering page, or call 01904 555678.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –