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  • MIL-OSI USA News: FACT SHEET: Biden-⁠ Harris Administration Approves Nearly $2 Billion for Hurricane Response and Recovery  Efforts

    Source: The White House

    The Biden-Harris Administration continues its response and recovery efforts across the Southeast and Appalachia following Hurricanes Helene and Milton. Nearly 8,000 Federal personnel remain on the ground working side-by-side with State and local officials to help survivors with recovery and rebuilding.

    As part of our commitment to remaining with impacted communities as long as it takes, under President Biden’s direction, the Administration has already approved more than $1.8 billion in assistance for hurricane recovery efforts.

    This includes assistance for individuals – including funding for temporary housing, essential needs like food, water, baby formula, and other emergency supplies – as well as public assistance to states for costs related to debris removal, life-saving emergency protective measures, and restoring public infrastructure, including roads, bridges, schools, and courthouses.

    In North Carolina, where the Administration continues to surge resources, more than $100 million in assistance has been approved for more than 77,000 survivors.

    This funding supplements additional investments announced by President Biden during his visit to Florida this weekend, where he awarded more than $600 million from the Department of Energy to six projects across the Southeast to enhance the reliability and resilience of the electric grid in the face of more extreme weather events.

    Specific funding for impacted communities includes:

    For those affected by Hurricane Helene, FEMA has approved over $911 million, which includes $581 million in assistance for individuals and affected communities and over $330 million for public assistance costs like debris removal and other activities to save lives, protect public health and safety, prevent damage to public and private property, and restore public infrastructure.

    For individual assistance related to Hurricane Helene, specific funding approved includes:

    • Florida: More than $213 million for 71,000 survivors
    • South Carolina: More than $132 million for 146,000 survivors
    • Georgia: More than $119 million for 118,000 survivors
    • North Carolina: More than $100 million for 77,000 survivors
    • Tennessee: More than $11.8 million for 2,400 survivors
    • Virginia: More than $4.7 million for 1,500 survivors

    For those affected by Hurricane Milton, FEMA has already approved over $620 million, which thus far includes $16 million in assistance for individuals and affected communities and over $604 million in public assistance.  

    The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has offered over $48 million in tentatively approved disaster loan funding to survivors of Hurricanes Helene and Milton. The SBA also has hundreds of staff working on the ground supporting communities in Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia in 48 disaster recovery centers, as well as in loan processing and customer service centers. 

    Disaster Recovery Centers open throughout impacted states:

    Additional Disaster Recovery Centers are opening throughout the affected communities to provide survivors with in-person assistance. These centers serve as “one stop shops,” offering help with applications for FEMA assistance, information on available resources from other Federal agencies, and guidance on navigating the recovery process. Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams remain on the ground in neighborhoods in all affected states helping survivors apply for assistance and connecting them with additional state, local, federal and voluntary resources.

    Survivors can visit Disaster Recovery Centers in the following cities/towns:

    Florida:

    • Twelve Disaster Recovery Centers are open in Bradenton, Branford, Glen Saint Mary, Homosassa, Lake City, Largo, Live Oak, Madison, Perry, Sarasota, and Tampa, and more will open in the coming days and weeks. DRCs will support survivors impacted by both Helene and Milton. In addition, 120 Disaster Survivor Assistance Team members are going into neighborhoods to connect with survivors.

    North Carolina:

    • Six Disaster Recovery Centers are open in Asheville, Bakersville, Boone, Lenoir, Marion and Sylva. FEMA expects to open up to ten more Disaster Recovery Centers in impacted communities in the coming days. More than 1,200 FEMA staff are on the ground, and 379 Disaster Survivor Assistance Team members are going into neighborhoods to connect with survivors.

    Georgia:

    • Four Disaster Recovery Centers are open in Valdosta, Douglas, Sandersville and Augusta. 152 Disaster Survivor Assistance Team members are going into neighborhoods to connect with survivors.

    South Carolina:

    • Six Disaster Recovery Centers are open in Anderson, Greenville, Barnwell, Batesburg, Easley, and North Augusta. 92 Disaster Survivor Assistance Team members are going into neighborhoods to connect with survivors.

    Tennessee:

    • One Disaster Recovery Center is open in Erwin. 48 Disaster Survivor Assistance Team members are going into neighborhoods to connect with survivors.

    Virginia:

    • Four Disaster Recovery Centers are open in Damascus, Dublin, Independence, and Tazewell. 57 Disaster Survivor Assistance Team members are going into neighborhoods to connect with survivors.

    Additional assistance to agriculture producers includes:

    The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced that people in parts of Georgia, North Carolina and Tennessee recovering from Tropical Storm Helene may be eligible for food assistance through the USDA’s Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP). Approximately 982,930 households in Georgia, 152,572 households in North Carolina and 54,692 households in Tennessee are estimated to be eligible for this relief to help with grocery expenses. Through this program, which USDA makes available through states in the aftermath of disasters, people who may not be eligible for SNAP in normal circumstances can participate if they meet specific criteria, including disaster income limits and qualifying disaster-related expenses.

    USDA also announced additional assistance to help agriculture producers impacted by Hurricane Helene in the recovery process. Producers will receive over $233 million in indemnities for losses from Hurricane Helene. These payments will directly help farmers and rural communities recover.

    Currently, Hurricane Helene estimated indemnities by state include:

    • Georgia: $207.7 million 
    • Florida: $12.8 million
    • Alabama: $5.0 million 
    • North Carolina: $4.1 million 
    • South Carolina: $4.1 million
    • Virginia: $61,000

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Data Center Company CEO Indicted for Major Fraud and Making False Statements to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission

    Source: US Justice – Antitrust Division

    Headline: Data Center Company CEO Indicted for Major Fraud and Making False Statements to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission

    A federal grand jury in the District of Columbia returned an indictment yesterday charging a Maryland man with major fraud against the United States and making false statements to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for his alleged participation in a scheme to deceive the SEC into thinking his company’s data center was certified at the highest rating level for reliability, availability, and security, when it was not.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Lawler Announces Over $32 Million in Federal Funding in FY25, Set to Deliver More Than $70 Million For District in First Term

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Mike Lawler (R, NY-17)

    Yesterday, Congressman Mike Lawler was joined by Rockland County Sheriff Lou Falco and other local elected officials outside the Rockland County Sheriff’s office to highlight major infrastructure and public safety investments for the Hudson Valley secured in federal community project funding for Fiscal Year 2025. Although the appropriations work for Fiscal Year 2025 is still ongoing, Congressman Lawler has already secured more than $32.9 million for fifteen different projects across New York’s 17th Congressional District. This is in addition to $38 million in federal funding for 17 projects in Fiscal Year 2024. With the latest numbers, Congressman Lawler is set to deliver more than $70 million for New York’s 17th Congressional District in his first term in office.

    “When I was elected to represent this district, I promised I would work with my partners at every level of government and in both parties to prioritize the needs of our residents,” said Congressman Lawler. “That’s exactly what I’ve done in working with each of the officials with me here today to ensure funding for each of these important projects.”

    “Projects like these are great examples of what we can accomplish when we put aside politics and focus on meeting the needs of our communities and constituents,” Congressman Lawler concluded. “That’s been my focus as a Congressman, it’s been my focus throughout the appropriations process for both Fiscal Year 2024 and 2025, and it will always be my focus.”

    Congressman Lawler is one of the most bipartisan members of the 118th Congress and represents New York’s 17th Congressional District, which is just north of New York City and contains all or parts of Rockland, Putnam, Dutchess, and Westchester Counties.

    Complete footage of yesterday’s press conference can be viewed here.

    Below is a list and description of each project announced by Congressman Lawler:

    Rockland County Public Safety and Crime Prevention Initiative

    Recipient: Rockland County Sheriff’s Office

    Amount: $4,500,000

    Summary: The funding will be used for necessary law enforcement priorities such as police vehicles, equipment to be utilized at a new reality-based public safety training facility, and the structural analysis and design of the facility. This project will provide necessary support to the Rockland County Sheriff’s Office to ensure effective enforcement of laws, address crimes, and improve the criminal justice system across the County. These priorities closely align with the purposes of the Byrne Justice Grants program.

    Law Enforcement Reality-Based Training Facility

    Recipient: Rockland County Sheriff’s Office

    Amount: $2,600,000

    Summary: The funding will be used to construct a new reality-based training facility for the Rockland County Sheriff Department to grow law enforcement capacity, ensure effective law enforcement operations, and overall enhance public safety throughout the county. This project will increase law enforcement capacity and enhance development of public safety in Rockland County, NY. This new facility will allow the Sheriff’s office to better combat crime, improve community safety, and foster an environment more conducive to economic development.

    Westchester Pleasantville Water District Storage Tank Replacement/Rehabilitation

    Amount: $2,250,000

    Summary: The funding will be used to mitigate risks attached to their leaking North and South Water Storage Tanks. Both 1-million-gallon water storage tanks are housed within the Millwood Water Treatment Plant approximately 3 miles north of the Village and services the entire Pleasantville Water District and approximately 2,000 residents in the Town of Mount Pleasant. Over the course of their 90-year history, both storage tanks have been exposed to natural deterioration, which has led to their useful life cycles coming to an end. Funding for the proposed Water Tank Improvement project will replace both of the Village’s North and South water tanks, which will significantly reduce the tax burden placed on residents. The completion of this project will positively impact the Pleasantville water distribution system, which services all 7,513 residents (U.S. Census Bureau’s 2020 Decennial Census) and an additional 2,000+ residents living in the Town of Mount Pleasant. Without funding, Pleasantville’s North and South Water Tanks would continue to suffer from leakage which will compromise the Village’s water supply, further increasing distribution risks that will negatively affect residential quality of life.

    Nanuet TOD Project

    Recipient: Town of Clarkstown

    Amount: $5,000,000

    Summary: The funding will be used for construction of the first phase of its transformative vision for the Nanuet Transit Oriented Development Plan (TOD), including water and sewer infrastructure improvements, road, sidewalk, and pedestrian safety and streetscape enhancements. Bringing this extensive new infrastructure will spark the redevelopment of the area by mitigating the drainage issues plaguing development in the area, enhancing the appeal of the area, and creating the necessary connectivity for a walkable and easily accessible TOD neighborhood. This transformational project will lead to an expansion of workforce housing, parking, and economic opportunity for the community.

    Safer Ramapo Project

    Recipient: Town of Ramapo

    Amount: $5,000,000

    Summary: The funding will be used for installation of pedestrian safety measures, including traffic signals, turning lanes, walking paths, and sidewalks in the Town of Ramapo. Directing funding towards pedestrian safety measures will not only mitigate the risk of accidents but also cultivate a more pedestrian-friendly environment. This will improve accessibility and safety, improve connectedness, and improve ADA compliance. The Town of Ramapo is also home to one of the largest Orthodox and Hasidic Jewish populations in the country, with many of these individuals walking to shul on Saturdays. To ensure the safety of these individuals, the Town of Ramapo requires additional funding for the construction of sidewalks. From 2011-2022, there have been 983 pedestrian injuries, and twenty-seven (27) deaths in the Town of Ramapo. Safer walking conditions continue to be an urgent need for Ramapo residents. 

    Carmel Water District II Water Plant Upgrade and Rehabilitation Project

    Recipient: Town of Carmel

    Amount: $1,250,000

    Summary: The funding will be used to repair/replace a 60-year-old facility and associated equipment to meet federal and state requirements of PFOAs. This project will directly benefit approximately 10,000 individuals on a daily basis. Beyond safeguarding public health, it will also have far reaching positive effects on various institutions and businesses in downtown Carmel, including the Putnam Hospital, and Carmel High School.

    Hallocks Mill Sewer District Extension Project

    Recipient: Town of Yorktown

    Amount: $1,250,000

    Summary: The funding will provide public sewer service to neighborhoods presently serviced by residential septic systems. The properties served by septic systems have generally been installed on small lots with steep slopes and environmental constraints, which are not ideal for septic system performance. The extended district will dramatically improve and enhance the water quality of Sparkle Lake, a major recreational resource for town residents, as well as the Croton Reservoir, which provides drinking water for millions of residents in the metropolitan area. The proposed wastewater infrastructure project, however, protects one of the largest public water systems in the United States. 

    Croton Falls Sewer Project

    Recipient: Town of North Salem

    Amount: $1,250,000

    Summary:  The project will install sewers in the Village of Croton Falls’ General Business district to replace existing septic and cesspools. The Village is struggling because some of its businesses, especially all of the restaurants which have mixed use with residential apartments over them, are on older septic tanks that cannot be upgraded due to a lack of space. Due to its proximity to the Muscoot Reservoir, many of the existing tanks and fields are on New York City Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) property and under roads, some are not fixable if they were to fail. To allow the Village to take advantage of its assets and begin to realize the potential of the community, Croton Falls needs sewers, which this funding will provide.

    Town of Orangetown Sidewalk Improvement Project

    Recipient: Town of Orangetown

    Amount: $1,500,000

    Summary: The funding would be used for streetscaping improvements in the Hamlet of Pearl River in the Town of Orangetown specifically to install sidewalks, curbs, and drainage improvements. This project provides streetscape improvements that meet a compelling local need consistent with the statutory purposes of the Economic Development Initiative. The corridor receiving these improvements has seen three fatalities in the last 15 years and is part of Orangetown’s continued efforts to improve pedestrian safety on Middletown Road. Sidewalks are a critical element of community well-being and serve as a connector between residents, neighborhoods, local economies, and more. Walkable sidewalks will ensure Orangetown is a place that attracts both businesses and new residents, which will surely promote economic development in the community.

    Village of New Square Road Infrastructure Improvements Project

    Recipient: Village of New Square

    Requested Amount: $4,000,000

    Summary: The funding will complete much needed improvements for NYS Route 45, widen Village roads, and complete paving improvements. The project will enhance traffic flow and increase the safety of motorists and pedestrians by addressing long-standing concerns about road conditions and motorist/pedestrian safety in the Village of New Square. Portions of the project area lack adequate sidewalks as a buffer from narrow, congested roads and are inherently dangerous in a fast-growing Village where many pedestrians utilize Village streets to travel to school, shopping, and visits to friends and family. By rectifying roadway deficiencies, the Village will relieve congestion, reduce travel time, and increase vehicle operating benefits.

    Memorial Drive Reconstruction Project

    Recipient: Village of Suffern

    Amount: $1,000,000

    Summary: The funding will be used for the reconstruction of Memorial Drive. The project will reopen a critical thoroughfare for emergency vehicles and for their timely response which can save lives, prevent injuries and protect property. Memorial Drive, which is currently closed due to the continual road deterioration and for the safety of residents, is also a major connection between the local community and US Route 202. Its reconstruction will stabilize the road for the safe use by all traffic including emergency vehicles.

    Downtown Water Main Lining Project

    Recipient: Village of Sleepy Hollow

    Amount: $983,200

    Summary: The funding will support a multi-phase project to address hydraulic inefficiencies in the downtown area, the Village of Sleepy Hollow will reline and replace approximately 1,980 linear feet of existing 8” water main line along a portion of Cortlandt Street and College Avenue. The current downtown water system is over 100 years old. The inner village neighborhoods bordering the downtown area represent the Village’s largest number of public housing units, low-income housing, low-income senior housing, and middle-income housing. This corridor is a critical aspect of public health and safety, connectivity and multi-modal transportation, affordable housing, resilient infrastructure, and overall economic investment. As a result, this project will provide immediate remediation and resiliency to infrastructure that otherwise poses a water quality and economic risk to the community, particularly its most vulnerable residents. 

    Samsondale Avenue Curbs & Sidewalk Replacement Project

    Recipient: Village of West Haverstraw

    Amount: $800,000

    Summary: The funding will be used to construct necessary upgrades of sidewalks and curbing along Samsondale Avenue, which have rapidly deteriorated and become a hazard. The project will unlock critical improvements to a main thoroughfare for a Village operating on a limited budget. Many pedestrians utilize Samsondale Avenue to get to the business district along Railroad Avenue and Route 9W as well as access to and from the Village of Haverstraw. The lack of sidewalks is potentially hazardous to people walking on them. This project will improve accessibility and safety, improve connectedness, and improve ADA compliance.

    Westchester County Public Safety Enhancements

    Recipient: City of Peekskill

    Amount: $520,000

    Summary: The funding will be used for expanding and modernizing the Peekskill police station, which is currently at capacity. The City of Peekskill’s police station is currently at capacity and urgently requires more space. With this necessary facility expansion and modernization, the City will be able to hire 10 more law enforcement officers, which will significantly improve operations.

    North State Road Water Main Replacement Initiative

    Recipient: Town of Ossining

    Amount: $1,000,000

    Summary: The funding will upgrade the community’s water distribution system on North State Road, an area that has a history of water main breaks, including 14 incidents over the last 5 years, that has exposed the general public to health risks and requires expensive repairs. It will improve the Town’s water distribution system as a part of a larger initiative to replace all aged cast iron water mains, significantly reducing the likelihood of water main breaks in a historically problematic area and positively impacting all 37,764 users in the service area.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sorensen Joins South Pekin Leaders to Announce Funding Request for Clean Drinking Water

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17)

    PEORIA, IL – Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17) joined local leaders in South Pekin to provide updates on funding he requested from the federal government to fix the village’s water system and provide clean drinking water to families. 

    “In South Pekin, we are seeing what happens when our communities don’t have the resources to repair broken infrastructure,” said Sorensen. “The water mains need to be replaced, and we need to make sure South Pekin has a new manganese filter, so dangerous chemicals stay out of the water and out of glasses that my neighbors use to drink. That is why I have requested millions from Congress for South Pekin to replace its water mains and ensure everyone has access to safe drinking water. I will continue working across the aisle, with Republicans and Democrats to get this passed so we can deliver this funding to my neighbors here at home.” 

    “The Village of South Pekin is greatly appreciative of Representative Sorensen and the House Appropriations Committee for taking up our request for funding, which will go a long way to help South Pekin achieve the goal of installing filtering, replacing water mains, and replacing the lead pipes and/or fixtures from the curb to the resident’s dwelling. The Village of South Pekin and its residents extend their thanks,” said Eric Stout, Mayor, Village of South Pekin.  

    Photos of the event are available for use by the media here.  

    Sorensen’s request comes as the Village of South Pekin looks to overhaul its water system that has been found to have levels of manganese levels that exceed the allowable limit, according to the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency. 

    Sorensen requested federal funds for South Pekin as part of the Community Project Funding process, which allows members of Congress to secure funds in spending legislation for critical initiatives in their communities. 

    In the Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies House Appropriations bill, Sorensen fought to include $1,105,800 in investments for South Pekin. This legislation has passed the House and is awaiting a vote in the Senate. 

    Congressman Eric Sorensen serves on the House Committee on Agriculture and the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology. Prior to serving in Congress, Sorensen was a local meteorologist in Rockford and the Quad Cities for nearly 20 years. His district includes Illinois’ Quad Cities, Rockford, Peoria, and Bloomington-Normal.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Nuer people have a sacred connection to birds – it can guide conservation in Ethiopia and South Sudan

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Abebayehu Aticho, PhD student, researcher and conservationist, Jimma University

    The pied kingfisher helps the Nuer to find parts of the river where there’s an abundance of fish. Henrik Karlsson/Getty Images

    The Nuer are a large pastoralist community living in western Ethiopia and South Sudan in east Africa. They rely on livestock keeping and have special beliefs and customs about how to live with nature. These are passed down from parents to children through the telling of stories.

    Uncommonly for east African pastoralists, the Nuer live in an expansive, low-lying floodplain. This Gambella region is shaped by the convergence of several rivers originating in the Ethiopian highlands. Its wetlands and lush greenery offer a unique habitat that supports both the Nuer and a wide variety of birds and other wildlife. The people have a centuries-old cultural connection with the local biodiversity.

    Our collaborative study involved Ethiopian and European scientists from diverse fields (such as ornithology, ethno-ornithology, biodiversity and nature conservation). We conducted interviews and 15 group discussions with Nuer people to understand their interaction with and knowledge of birds. The study included two districts and 400 households. We found a significant and seldom studied relationship with birds, which serve a range of purposes in Nuer life.

    Our study not only highlights the deep spiritual and cultural ties between the Nuer people and the avian world. It also underscores the importance of incorporating traditional ecological knowledge into contemporary conservation efforts.

    The Nuer’s relationship to birds can be a valuable model for sustainable human-wildlife interactions. It can contribute to the conservation of bird diversity and promote a more harmonious coexistence between humans and nature.

    The role of birds in Nuer life

    Ethiopia, known for its rich biodiversity, is home to 821 bird species and over 80 indigenous ethnic groups. Among these, the Nuer community stands out for its unique admiration of birds, viewing them as sacred beings.

    The Nuer use three interchangeable names for birds: gaatkuoth (sacred children of God), kuoth (bearers of spirit), and diit (symbols of human twins). These terms reflect spiritual beliefs and also influence cultural practices, such as naming twins after birds. This Nuer tradition connects the prolific nature of birds to human fertility.

    In our study, participants recognised 71 bird species as having unique cultural roles. The birds that live near Nuer villages have seven distinct uses. Ten species are used as bushmeat. Five are for traditional medicine. Eight are fish indicators – by meticulously observing species like the African fish eagle, African pygmy kingfisher, pied kingfisher or malachite kingfisher, people can identify areas with high fish populations.

    Seven birds serve as omens – they signal potential dangers like the presence of wild animals. Three are used to create protective amulets. Three are used to indicate the change of seasons – for instance the return of migratory western yellow wagtails is a reliable sign that the sunny, dry season will be replacing the rainy, wet season. And 45 are hailed for their aesthetic beauty, often linked with a sense of place. The vibrant plumage, melodious songs and elegant flight patterns of birds like the black-crowned crane, blue-naped mousebird and purple heron create a spectacle that significantly enhances Nuer life.

    This intricate knowledge of birds is communal: over 90% of participants agreed on the uses of these bird species.

    Indigenous knowledge and sustainability

    One of the most striking things about the Nuer community is the sustainable practice embedded within their traditional systems. When birds are used as amulets, for example, only small, non-invasive parts of the bird, like feathers, are utilised. These are fashioned into necklaces or bracelets believed to offer protection from dangers like diseases. The birds are not killed or significantly harmed, which preserves their populations.

    A Nuer village.
    fabio lamanna/Getty

    There are strict limits on when and how birds can be used in Nuer society. The use of birds as bushmeat or for making traditional medicine is carefully controlled by elders and within family structures. Hunting is typically allowed only during severe food shortages. It’s often restricted to those in dire need, such as impoverished households. Families with a history of twins, who hold birds in special reverence, are not allowed to hunt them.

    These cultural practices help prevent overexploitation of bird species, conserving them for future generations. They ensure that the use of natural resources remains sustainable.

    It’s important to raise awareness about the conservation of birds, which are used for various purposes across Africa. Traditional medicine, bushmeat and the making of amulets has a direct impact on bird populations.

    Nuer traditions balance human needs with the preservation of bird life. Our study therefore offers a compelling case and model for the conservation of avian and indigenous cultural diversity in Africa.

    Why this matters

    It is, however, essential to acknowledge that the Nuer’s cultural practices are not immune to the pressures of modern society. As globalisation and development continue to encroach on traditional lands, the Nuer people will face increasing challenges in maintaining their sustainable practices.

    Threats such as habitat loss, climate change and illegal wildlife trading could jeopardise bird populations. In recent decades, the expansion of large-scale agriculture in the Gambella region has emerged as a driver of habitat loss and wildlife decline.

    This makes the Nuer people’s traditional conservation practices even more relevant to future generations. By recognising and valuing their knowledge and practices, we can learn valuable lessons for broader conservation efforts.

    Indigenous territories, despite their relatively small size, often harbour extraordinary biodiversity. Recognising this, the United Nations’ Post-2020 Global Biodiversity Framework places indigenous-occupied areas among conservation priority areas at the forefront of biodiversity preservation strategies.

    It is crucial to help the Nuer community adapt to changing circumstances while preserving their cultural heritage and ensuring the sustainability of bird biodiversity.

    Changkuoth Puok Diet, a lecturer at Gambella University in Ethiopia, contributed to this article.

    Abebayehu Aticho works for both Jimma University and the Threatened Species Conservation Organisation (a small local NGO). He got funding for this study from the International Crane Foundation and Jimma University.

    Andrew Gosler has received grant funding in the past from the Arts and Humanities Research Council for the Ethno-ornithology World Atlas.

    Abebe Beyene, Desalegn Chala, Nils Christian Stenseth, and Shimelis Aynalem Zelelew do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Nuer people have a sacred connection to birds – it can guide conservation in Ethiopia and South Sudan – https://theconversation.com/nuer-people-have-a-sacred-connection-to-birds-it-can-guide-conservation-in-ethiopia-and-south-sudan-239420

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Marat Khusnullin took part in an extended joint meeting of the State Duma committees in preparation for the government hour

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Marat Khusnullin took part in a meeting of the State Duma committees in preparation for the government hour

    October 16, 2024

    Marat Khusnullin took part in a meeting of the State Duma committees in preparation for the government hour

    October 16, 2024

    Previous news Next news

    Marat Khusnullin took part in a meeting of the State Duma committees in preparation for the government hour

    Deputy Prime Minister Marat Khusnullin took part in an extended joint meeting of three relevant committees in preparation for government hour.

    On the eve of the government hour, the participants discussed the key areas of the new national project “Infrastructure for Life”, the main tasks for the country’s infrastructure development in the coming years, including the housing and utilities sector.

    “On the instructions of the President, we are forming a new national project “Infrastructure for Life”, in which one of the key blocks is the modernization of the public utility infrastructure. We must form a clear plan and a set of specific mechanisms – how exactly we will improve the quality of existing public utilities for Russians and develop housing and communal services in the future. In particular, we must take into account that by 2030 the task is to build 1 billion square meters of housing. Thus, to fulfill all the tasks set in the housing and communal services sector, it is necessary to strictly account for the existing volume of public utility networks, their capacity, improve executive discipline, and develop related infrastructure. As part of the new national project, we will also determine master plans for at least 200 settlements, which, among other things, must have verified schemes of public utility networks. In general, we have a lot of, but very important, work ahead of us. By 2030, we will allocate 4.5 trillion rubles to modernize the public utility infrastructure, which will improve the quality of services provided to about 20 million people,” said Marat Khusnullin.

    Chairman of the State Duma Committee on Construction and Housing and Utilities Sergey Pakhomov noted that there is a lot of joint work to be done with the Government related to the modernization of the housing and utilities infrastructure. “In addition to choosing the vector of this process, we also need to strengthen the staffing. The industry already uses modern technologies, their implementation will be more widespread, but today there is no one to service the new equipment from both a methodological and practical point of view. Objectively, we need to strengthen the staff, since the housing and utilities industry has a profound impact on many related industries and on the economy of the country as a whole. And most importantly, the state of the industry affects the mood of our residents,” said Sergey Pakhomov.

    According to Nikolai Shulginov, Chairman of the State Duma Committee on Energy, in order to improve the reliability of the electric grid complex, the committee ensured the adoption of Federal Law No. 185-FZ “On Amendments to the Federal Law “On Electric Power Industry” and Certain Legislative Acts of the Russian Federation”. It launches a mechanism for creating system-forming territorial grid organizations in each region of Russia, which become single centers of responsibility for the electricity supply of regions and the elimination of accidents on electric grids. “Taking into account law enforcement practice, we consider it appropriate for the Government and the Ministry of Energy of Russia to consider the issue of introducing a similar mechanism for “picking up” heat supply facilities with a high accident rate of regional and municipal owners by owners of heat generation facilities that have heat supply sources, main networks, loops on their balance sheets and operate efficiently,” said Nikolai Shulginov.

    “We continue to actively prepare for the government hour, where during the meeting we will tell our colleagues from the deputy corps about the current national and federal projects, plans, challenges and new solutions aimed at improving the housing and utilities sector, including within the framework of the national project being formed “Infrastructure for Life”. In this part, the Ministry of Construction of Russia has organized work on promptly responding to emerging issues and developing solutions for the effective modernization of the utilities infrastructure and improving the quality of services provided. Thanks to the support of our President, we are preparing a new federal project “Modernization of Utilities Infrastructure”, which includes current and planned support measures,” noted the head of the Ministry of Construction Irek Faizullin.

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

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    http://government.ru/nevs/53008/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI: STOCKHOLDER INVESTIGATION: The M&A Class Action Firm Investigates the Merger of Longboard Pharmaceuticals, Inc. – LBPH

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, Oct. 16, 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 Longboard Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (Nasdaq: LBPH), relating to a tender offer from H. Lundbeck A/S. Under the terms of the agreement, H. Lundbeck offers to acquire outstanding shares of Longboard common stock for $60.00 per share.

    Click here for more information https://monteverdelaw.com/case/longboard-pharmaceuticals-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 USA: Less Than Five Days Remain to Apply for FEMA Assistance

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Less Than Five Days Remain to Apply for FEMA Assistance

    Less Than Five Days Remain to Apply for FEMA Assistance

    Attention, New Mexicans affected by the South Fork and Salt Fires and/or flooding. Do not wait any longer to apply for FEMA federal disaster assistance. The deadline to apply for assistance is less than five days away. 

    Homeowners and renters impacted by the fires and flooding, from June 17 to Aug. 20, 2024, who live in Lincoln, Otero, Rio Arriba, San Juan Counties, or on the Mescalero Apache Reservation have only until Saturday, Oct. 19 to apply. The deadline to apply for a long-term, low-interest disaster loan for physical damage from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is also Oct. 19.

    FEMA grants do not have to be repaid. FEMA assistance is nontaxable and will not affect eligibility for Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, SNAP or other federal and state benefits.  

    How to Apply for FEMA Disaster Assistance 

    The first step for individuals and households to receive assistance is to apply to FEMA for federal assistance. There are no costs involved to apply for, or receive, FEMA assistance. There are four ways to apply:

    1. Go online to disasterassistance.gov/
    2. Download the FEMA App for mobile devices at fema.gov/about/news-multimedia/mobile-products
    3. Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 between 5 a.m. and 9 p.m. Help is available in most languages.
    4. Visit the state of New Mexico/FEMA Disaster Recovery Center at the Horton Complex, 237 Service Road in Ruidoso. Hours are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, noon to 4 p.m. on Saturday.

    For an American Sign Language (ASL) video on how to apply for assistance, visit youtube.com/watch= WZGpWI2RCNw.

    For more information about FEMA’s Individual Assistance program, visit  www.fema.gov/assistance/individual. 

    angela.ambroise

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Anniversary Statement: Socata TB-20 Tobago, (N33NW), 10 October 2023

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Collision with trees during takeoff, Langham Airfield, Norfolk, 10 October 2023

    This statement provides an update on the ongoing AAIB investigation into an accident involving a Socata TB-20 which struck trees during takeoff at Langham Airfield, Norfolk.

    The investigation into this accident has been completed and the investigation report will be published in the near future.

    Updates to this page

    Published 16 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: USGS Celebrates New Office with Official Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

    Source: US Geological Survey

    The urban-serving institution of higher education hosted the official ribbon cutting for the office in East Hartford, on Friday, October 4. USGS cooperators, town officials, and agency and university staff came out to learn about the new building. Attendees toured the modern facility and spoke to USGS staff to better understand the agency’s mission and the hydrologic science conducted at the center.

    The ceremony included remarks by representatives from USGS, Goodwin University, and local, state, and federal officials, including U.S. Representative John Larson, Connecticut State Representatives Henry Genga and Jason Rojas, and East Hartford Mayor Connor Martin. East Hartford Town Council members Don Bell and Awet Tsegai were also present. 

    “Since the late 1990s when the USGS moved from Hartford to East Hartford we have been a proud member of the East Hartford community,” USGS New England Water Science Center Deputy Director Marcel Belaval said at the event. “Today, thanks our partnership with Goodwin University, we are working to facilitate scientific learning in the community by extending our expertise to Goodwin’s students and the broader East Hartford community.” 

    USGS first became involved with Goodwin when the Connecticut River Academy, a magnet high school of Goodwin, opened. USGS assisted the school with their environmental science curriculum.  

    “Our partnership with USGS is very deep and this is only the latest chapter of it,” said Goodwin University President Mark Scheinberg. “In this chapter, instead of USGS being spread around the area, we were able to entice them to consolidate what they were doing right on our campus.”

    USGS is currently working with Goodwin and the Connecticut River Academy to set up water science lectures in the classroom and demonstrations out in the field.

    Mayor Martin, who worked for Goodwin University for 15 years and attended the school, credited Goodwin for reviving East Hartford with new and modern facilities in recent years.

    “I always campaigned on the promise that I would revitalize Main Street, and everything Goodwin has done here with USGS … is all contributing to moving East Hartford forward,” said Martin. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Treasury Bond Auction Announcement – RIKB 27 0415 – RIKS 37 0115

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Series RIKB 27 0415 RIKS 37 0115
    ISIN IS0000036291 IS0000033793
    Maturity Date 04/15/2027 01/15/2037
    Auction Date 10/18/2024 10/18/2024
    Settlement Date 10/23/2024 10/23/2024
    10% addition 10/22/2024 10/22/2024

    On the Auction Date, between 10:30 am and 11:00 am, the Government Debt Management will auction Treasury bonds in the Series, with the ISIN numbers and with the Maturity Dates according to the table above. Payments for the Treasury bonds must be received by the Central Bank before 14:00 on the Settlement Date, and the Bonds will be delivered in electronic form on the same day. Article 6 of the General Terms of Auction for Treasury bonds applies for the right to purchase an additional 10%.

    Further reference is made to the description of the Treasury bond and the General Terms of Auction for Treasury bonds on the Government Debt Management website.

    For additional information please contact Oddgeir Gunnarsson, Government Debt Management, at +354 569 9635.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Joint statement on establishing Multilateral Sanctions Monitoring Team (MSMT)

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Several countries gave a joint statement on the establishment of the Multilateral Sanctions Monitoring Team (MSMT) in response to the termination of the mandate of the Panel of Experts for the UNSC 1718 Sanctions Committee in April this year.

    The Republic of Korea, Japan, the USA, the UK, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Australia, Canada and New Zealand gave a statement on their recent establishment of the Multilateral Sanctions Monitoring Team (MSMT) for the implementation of UN Security Council Resolutions regarding the DPRK:

    We, the participating states of the MSMT, are aligned in our commitment to uphold international peace and security and to safeguard the global non-proliferation regime and address the threat arising from the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea’s (DPRK) weapons of mass destruction (WMD) and ballistic missile programs, which are in violation of UN Security Council resolutions (UNSCRs).

    In light of the veto which disbanded the UN Security Council’s 1718 Committee Panel of Experts this year, we hereby express our intention to establish the Multilateral Sanctions Monitoring Team (MSMT), a multilateral mechanism to monitor and report violations and evasions of the sanction measures stipulated in the relevant UNSCRs. The goal of the new mechanism is to assist the full implementation of UN sanctions on the DPRK by publishing information based on rigorous inquiry into sanctions violations and evasions attempts.

    We underscore our shared determination to fully implement relevant UNSCRs regarding the DPRK, reaffirm that the path to dialogue remains open, and call on all states to join global efforts to maintain international peace and security in the face of the ongoing threats from the DPRK.

    Media enquiries

    Email newsdesk@fcdo.gov.uk

    Telephone 020 7008 3100

    Contact the FCDO Communication Team via email (monitored 24 hours a day) in the first instance, and we will respond as soon as possible.

    Updates to this page

    Published 16 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: Old National Bank Recognized as 2024 Leading Disability Employer

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    EVANSVILLE, Ind., Oct. 16, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Honoring National Disability Employment Awareness Month in October, the National Organization on Disability (NOD) named Old National Bank as one of only 59 Leading Disability Employers for 2024. This recognition formally acknowledges companies with the highest performance in disability inclusion practices and policies, benchmarked against more than 200 participating organizations.

    In its 10th year, the NOD Leading Disability Employer Seal spotlights the transformative contributions made by business leaders in promoting employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities. It also honors those organizations that prioritize diversity, equity and importantly, accessibility — setting a high standard for others to follow.

    “We’re incredibly grateful to this group of exceptional companies for their unwavering commitment to disability inclusion,” said Beth Sirull, President and Chief Executive Officer, National Organization on Disability. “We believe that diversity fuels innovation and growth, and inclusive workplaces reduce costly employee turnover. These employers embody that vision in action. We applaud their efforts and investments to provide pathways to fulfilling careers for Americans with disabilities.”

    Leading Disability Employer Seal recipients are determined based on data provided by companies on the NOD Employment Tracker™. The Tracker is the only free assessment tool that helps companies understand which employment practices correlate to improved talent outcomes related to hiring, retention and advancement of people with disabilities.

    “Inviting diversity and activating our core value of inclusion are critical to our success. We are thrilled to be recognized for what we believe is a differentiator for our team members, clients and the communities we serve,” says Corliss Garner, Chief Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer, Old National Bank. “Our commitment to uplifting people with apparent and non-apparent disabilities promote an inclusive work environment that attracts talent and makes us stronger as an organization.”

    ABOUT THE NATIONAL ORGANIZATION ON DISABILITY (NOD)
    The National Organization on Disability (NOD) is a private, non-profit organization that seeks to increase employment opportunities for the 60% of working-age Americans with disabilities who are not employed. To achieve this goal, NOD offers a suite of employment solutions, tailored to anticipate and meet leading companies’ workforce needs. NOD has helped some of the world’s most recognized brands be more competitive in today’s global economy by building or enriching their disability inclusion programs. For more information about NOD and how its portfolio of professional services, Leadership Council and Employment Tracker™ can help your business, visit http://www.NOD.org.

    ABOUT OLD NATIONAL
    Old National Bancorp (NASDAQ: ONB) is the holding company of Old National Bank. As the sixth largest commercial bank headquartered in the Midwest, Old National proudly serves clients primarily in the Midwest and Southeast. With approximately $53 billion of assets and $30 billion of assets under management, Old National ranks among the top 30 banking companies headquartered in the United States. Tracing our roots to 1834, Old National focuses on building long-term, highly valued partnerships with clients while also strengthening and supporting the communities we serve. In addition to providing extensive services in consumer and commercial banking, Old National offers comprehensive wealth management and capital markets services. For more information and financial data, please visit Investor Relations at oldnational.com. In 2024, Points of Light named Old National one of “The Civic 50” — an honor reserved for the 50 most community-minded companies in the United States.

    Investor Relations:
    Lynell Durchholz
    (812) 464-1366
    lynell.durchholz@oldnational.com

    Media Relations:
    Rick Vach
    (904) 535-9489
    rick.vach@oldnational.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Mpox vaccine is safe and generates a robust antibody response in adolescents

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 2

    News Release

    Wednesday, October 16, 2024

    NIH clinical trial addresses knowledge gap on vaccine use in adolescent populations

    WHAT:

    A National Institutes of Health (NIH)-funded clinical trial of an mpox vaccine in adolescents found it was safe and generated an antibody response equivalent to that seen in adults, according to a planned interim analysis of study data. Adolescents are among the population groups affected by mpox in the current Clade I mpox outbreak. The interim results of this trial were presented at the IDWeek2024 conference in Los Angeles.

    The first human case of mpox was recorded in 1970 in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Two types of the virus that causes mpox have been identified. Clade I is endemic in Central Africa and can cause severe illness. Clade II, endemic in West Africa, caused the global mpox outbreak that began in 2022 and tends to result in milder illness. People with compromised immune systems, children, and those who are pregnant are especially vulnerable to severe mpox regardless of the virus clade. A large proportion of people affected in the current Clade I outbreak in the DRC and other African countries are adolescents and children. The modified vaccinia Ankara-Bavarian Nordic (MVA-BN) vaccine is approved in several countries for the prevention of mpox and smallpox in adults, but insufficient data are available to support licensure for people younger than 18 years.

    NIH’s National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) is sponsoring a mid-stage study in the United States to evaluate the safety and immune response generated by two doses of MVA-BN in adolescents aged 12-17 years, comparing outcomes to those in adults aged 18-50 years. In a planned interim analysis, study investigators measured antibody levels two weeks after the second dose (study day 43) and monitored safety through 180 days after the second dose (study day 210). The analysis showed that the MVA-BN vaccine generated antibody levels in adolescents equivalent to those observed in adults at day 43 and found that the vaccine was well tolerated through study day 210. The overall frequency of adverse events was comparable between the study groups. Reports of dizziness were more common in adolescents than adults, but similar to the frequency of dizziness reported when other vaccines are administered in adolescents.

    According to the study team, the interim data support the safety and quality of the immune response generated by the MVA-BN vaccine in adolescents, findings relevant to the United States and other areas where mpox cases have occurred. The authors underscored the need to evaluate the MVA-BN vaccine in younger children to extend the evidence base to all people affected by mpox.

    NIH is grateful to the research sites and volunteers who participate in studies to improve the mpox response.

    For more information about this study, please visit ClinicalTrials.gov and use the identifier NCT05512949.

    NIAID conducts and supports research—at NIH, throughout the United States, and worldwide—to study the causes of infectious and immune-mediated diseases, and to develop better means of preventing, diagnosing and treating these illnesses. News releases, fact sheets and other NIAID-related materials are available on the NIAID website.

    About the National Institutes of Health (NIH): NIH, the nation’s medical research agency, includes 27 Institutes and Centers and is a component of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. NIH is the primary federal agency conducting and supporting basic, clinical, and translational medical research, and is investigating the causes, treatments, and cures for both common and rare diseases. For more information about NIH and its programs, visit http://www.nih.gov.

    NIH…Turning Discovery Into Health®

    Reference

    CM Healy et al. Safety and Immunogenicity of Mpox Vaccination in Adolescents. IDWeek2024. Saturday, October 19, 2024.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: STOCKHOLDER INVESTIGATION: The M&A Class Action Firm Investigates the Merger of Longboard Pharmaceuticals, Inc. – LBPH

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, Oct. 16, 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 Longboard Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (Nasdaq: LBPH), relating to a tender offer from H. Lundbeck A/S. Under the terms of the agreement, H. Lundbeck offers to acquire outstanding shares of Longboard common stock for $60.00 per share.

    Click here for more information https://monteverdelaw.com/case/longboard-pharmaceuticals-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: As the CFPB tightens restrictions on medical debt collections, Navicore Solutions provides invaluable resources to consumers affected by medical debt

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MANALAPAN, N.J., Oct. 16, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Approximately 14 million people (6% of adults) in the U.S. owe over $1,000 in medical debt according to health policy research group KFF. The CFPB (Consumer Financial Protection Bureau) stated that about 100 million Americans owe over $220 billion in medical debt, a problem that’s compounded by medical billing complexity and the third-party vendors many healthcare organizations employ to complete that billing.

    Medical debt can be overwhelming, especially when compounded with other debt loads such as credit card debt. Navicore Solutions provides a vital resource for households, providing guidance and solutions to alleviate the stress of a spiraling financial situation.

    “Medical billing is often riddled with errors, including inflated or duplicative charges, fees for services the patient never received, or charges already paid,” CFPB Director Rohit Chopra said in a statement earlier this month. “The CFPB is taking action to ensure that Americans are not unfairly chased by debt collectors over unsubstantiated or invalid medical bills.”

    The CFPB is focusing on the regulation of third-party medical debt collection companies, the enforcement of the ‘No Surprises Act’ which ensures that healthcare consumers do not face unjustifiably high medical debts, and that consumers are not pursued for falsified or ‘up-coded’ medical procedures.

    Across the United States, 14.3% of households are carrying medical debt with the aging Boomer generation holding the most medical debt with an average of $22,000 owed. The problem of medical debt is exacerbated across all generations when there is low or no medical insurance coverage, or a household includes an individual with a disability.

    “Medical debt can strike anyone at any time, throwing a household into financial uncertainty,” said Diane Gray, Navicore’s Chief Operating Officer. “Navicore offers a lifeline to those seeking actionable steps to overcome growing medical debt.”

    As the medical debt issue in America mounts, CFPB asserted that all entities involved in patient collections, including debt collectors and patients themselves, must be aware of the federal laws protecting consumers. Navicore Solutions provides a help to consumers in search of a path forward.

    About Navicore Solutions

    Founded in 1991, Navicore Solutions is a national leader in the field of nonprofit financial counseling with a mission to strengthen the well-being of individuals and families through education, guidance, advocacy, and support.

    Navicore counselors provide a wide range of services including credit counseling to consumers in need; education programs through workshops, courses and written material; debt management plan to provide relief for applicable consumers; student loan counseling for those struggling with student loan debt; and housing counseling services in the areas of rental, pre-purchase, default and reverse mortgage. The agency is an advocate of financial education helping communities achieve and maintain financial stability.

    Contact:
    Lori Stratford
    Digital Marketing Manager
    Navicore Solutions
    lstratford@navicoresolutions.org
    navicoresolutions.org

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: MSF urges Polish authorities to retract announced suspension of right to seek asylum

    Source: Médecins Sans Frontières –

    • We are deeply concerned by the Polish government’s plan to suspend the right for people to seek asylum in Poland.
    • This is a major escalation in a series of actions to dehumanise migrants, refugees, and asylum seekers.
    • MSF urges the Polish government to change their course of action and ensure migrants and refugees are protected in the country.

    Warsaw- Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) is deeply concerned by the Polish government’s plan to suspend the right for people to seek asylum in Poland. Such a suspension will have predictable dramatic consequences for people seeking safety in Europe. MSF calls on the Polish authorities to drastically change course of action and take all necessary measures to ensure the protection and rights of refugees and migrants.

    Over the last days, the Polish government announced a strategy to reform the country’s migration policy, including the possibility of a temporary suspension of the right to seek asylum in Poland in order to “regain control” of borders and “ensure security”.https://notesfrompoland.com/2024/10/15/polish-government-approves-tough-new-migration-strategy-including-possibility-to-suspend-asylum/

    While the full details of the government’s plan are yet to be disclosed, MSF warns that such restrictive and punitive measures against people seeking safety, denying them legal pathways to protection, would only lead to more harmful border practices at the Poland-Belarus border and further expose already vulnerable people to life-threatening conditions.

    “The Polish government’s willingness to further restrict and suspend the right to seek asylum is extremely concerning and risks leading to more unchecked pushbacks and violence against people crossing the border,” says Uriel Mazzoli, MSF Head of Mission in Poland.

    “The new Polish government had an opportunity to reform the country’s asylum and reception system but has instead only deepened existing and dangerous political rhetoric, rooted in a ‘crisis’ narrative, further normalizing a militarized response, violent practices and denial of humanity to people seeking safety in the European Union,” says Mazzoli.

    Since November 2022, MSF teams have treated over 400 people, many of them stranded for weeks in uninhabitable forests and exposed to violent practices at the border. Given the extreme conditions of deprivation people experience in the border area, MSF patients suffer from a wide range of severe medical conditions ranging from exhaustion, hypothermia, dehydration, trench foot to mental health issues.

    In 2024, our teams have also witnessed a sharp increase in people carrying the scars of physical assaults, including bruises and dog bites. In July 2024, MSF teams treated for the first time injuries related to the use of rubber bullets being fired. Additionally, half of people MSF has seen in 2024 have reported having been pushed back, some of them several times.

    This latest announcement represents a further escalation of an already extremely hostile environment for people on the move and those providing humanitarian assistance to them. In June 2024, the Polish authorities imposed a ban on access to the border zone, which has prevented civil society and humanitarian organizations from accessing people in need in these areas. 

    Layers of barbed wire on the Poland-Belarus border at the river in Kozłowe Borki. Poland, January 2024.
    Jakub Jasiukiewicz/MSF

    Despite official requests for unrestricted and independent access to the entire border region, MSF has been granted access to only a limited part of the buffer zone. This buffer is an exclusion zone along 60 kilometers of the country’s border with Belarus and includes key locations where most people on the move have been crossing the border since 2021.

    Not only does this ban prevent the delivery of essential assistance, but it also enables much of the violence reported by people we treat to take place out of sight.

    “The restrictions on humanitarian and medical aid at the Poland-Belarus border are already alarming, with entire zones where humanitarian workers are prevented access and a legislation that could favor the use of violence by state authorities,” says Mazzoli. “Delaying assistance and medical care to people at the border can have life-threatening consequences as many of the patients we see experience health issues that can rapidly deteriorate.”

    The suspension of territorial asylum will have far-reaching consequences on the capacity of people seeking safety in Poland to access medical care and protection. Worryingly so, such extraordinary measures are becoming the despicable new normal in the European Union (EU), where governments and institutions have increasingly seized upon the notion of ‘crisis’ as a reason to derogate from minimum standards and people’s rights.

    Over recent years, MSF teams have witnessed many examples of the detrimental consequences of policies that put border controls above human life across our projects in Greece, Libya, the Central Mediterranean Sea and Belgium. For too long now, EU member states have been waging a war on some of the world’s most vulnerable people under the guise of ‘instrumentalisation’ by third countries.
     
    MSF calls on the Polish authorities to retract the announced suspension of the right to seek asylum and to end this gross dehumanisation of refugees and migrants and the increasing militarisation of responses towards them.

    MSF activities in Poland:
    After a short intervention along the Poland–Belarus border region in 2021, MSF teams returned in the Podlasie region, near the border with Belarus, in November 2022. Since then, our medical team provides basic medical care through mobile teams in remote locations and organise emergency referrals and follow-up, in close cooperation with other organisations and civil society groups. Furthermore, since 2022, MSF supports the Polish Ministry of Health to offer medical and psychosocial care to patients with tuberculosis.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI: Decisions of the extraordinary general meeting of shareholders of EfTEN Real Estate Fund AS 16.10.2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    The extraordinary general meeting of shareholders of EfTEN Real Estate Fund AS was held on 16 October 2024 in in the Radisson Collection Hotel Conference Center (2nd floor, Tallinn, Rävala 3).                       

    A total of 133 shareholders attended the meeting representing 8 332 014 votes. This means 77,01% of the total votes were represented. Of the participants, 17 shareholders representing 1 394 885 votes, i.e., 12,89% of all votes attached to the shares, cast their votes electronically before the meeting in accordance with the electronic voting procedure announced in the invitation to the meeting. The meeting therefore had a quorum.

    The decisions of the extraordinary general meeting were as follows:

    Increase of share capital and listing of new shares on the Main List of Nasdaq Tallinn Stock Exchange
    With 8 323 537, i.e. 99,9% votes in favour, the shareholders decided in accordance with the law and the fund’s articles of association, to give the mandate on a decision to  increase of the share capital of the fund within the following 6-month period in the competence of the superviosry board of the fund, considering that the total volume of the additional capital to be raised will not exceed 30,000,000 euros and the existing shareholders shall retain the pre-emptive right to subscribe for the new shares, and submit application for listing and admission to trading of all newly issued shares of the fund in the main list of the Nasdaq Tallinn Stock Exchange. To authorise the supervisory board and the management board of the fund to carry out all activities and conclude all agreements necessary for this purpose.                                                                                                                  

    The minutes of the general meeting shall be made available on the fund’s website (https://eref.ee/investorile/uldkoosolekud/) not later than 7 days after the meeting.

    Viljar Arakas
    Member of the Management Board
    Phone 655 9515
    E-mail: viljar.arakas@eften.ee

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Surgent Knowledge Summit Offers Premium CPE Courses for Accounting and Tax Professionals

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    RADNOR, Pa., Oct. 16, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Surgent Accounting & Financial Education, a division of KnowFully Learning Group, is excited to announce the inaugural Surgent Knowledge Summit, a series of exclusive, live events celebrating International Accounting Week. The Knowledge Summit will provide accounting and tax professionals with valuable, premium content designed to enhance their expertise and support their ongoing professional development.

    This event will feature a variety of insightful sessions aimed at helping attendees earn essential continuing professional education (CPE) credits while staying up to date with the latest industry trends and practices. 

    “At Surgent, we believe that continuous learning is the key to staying competitive in today’s fast-paced accounting and tax landscape,” said Liz Kolar, executive vice president of Surgent. “The Surgent Knowledge Summit is our commitment to helping professionals not only meet their CPE requirements but also stay informed on the latest industry trends and technologies.” 

    The Surgent Knowledge Summit features sessions led by industry experts and covers critical topics like the future of financial reporting, the impacts of artificial intelligence (AI) on accounting, post-election tax policy changes and much more. Below is the calendar of events, showcasing the diverse range of sessions that will be held during the summit. 

    “The Surgent Knowledge Summit offers unparalleled access to exclusive content delivered by top industry experts,” Kolar said. “From the latest AI developments to crucial tax updates following the 2024 elections, our courses are designed to equip professionals with the knowledge and tools they need to thrive in this dynamic industry.”

    Surgent Knowledge Summit Events

    Thursday, Nov. 7

    AICPA and Surgent Panel on the CPA Exam and State of the Industry
    We kick off the summit with a free webinar at noon ET featuring a panel discussion on the CPA exam and the state of the accounting industry. Liz Kolar will join Mike Decker and Joe Maslott from the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants (AICPA) to discuss the recent CPA exam overhaul, industry trends and what lies ahead for 2025 and beyond.

    Free Premium CPE: Weekly Expert Hour Webinar
    Later that afternoon, join Washington insider Ken Kies and Surgent instructor Mike Tucker for Surgent CPE’s exclusive free Weekly Expert Hour on how the 2024 election results may shape tax policies. They will explore potential changes to tax legislation and expiring provisions of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. This premium CPE course will be held 2-3 p.m. ET and attendees will earn one CPE credit.

    Tuesday, Nov. 12

    Mark Your Calendars: Surgent’s Most Exciting Annual Event Is Coming! 
    In celebration of International Accounting Day Surgent will be offering its biggest sale of the year.

    Tax Preparation for Accountants
    Join Surgent Income Tax School at 3 p.m. ET for a free webinar: How Accounting Firms Can Increase Revenue with Tax Prep. Surgent’s team of industry experts will share strategies on using tax preparation services to boost revenue and client retention.

    Wednesday, Nov. 13 

    The Surgent Knowledge Summit will kick into high gear with a day dedicated to the future of accounting and auditing with cutting-edge webinars, including:

    • What A&A Pros Need to Know About Blockchain, Bitcoin, and Digital Assets (BBD2) with Jack Castonguay will explore the impact of blockchain, Bitcoin and digital assets on accounting practices. Attendees will learn about the regulatory challenges, reporting standards and key accounting complexities related to these emerging technologies. This course will be held 9-11 a.m. ET and attendees will earn two CPE credits.  
    • Innovating Accounting: The Impact of AI, Automation and Blockchain on Financial Reporting and Auditing (AAB1) with Eric Cohen, owner of Cohen Computer Consulting and co-founder of XBRL. This webinar will cover how AI, automation and blockchain are transforming financial reporting and audit. This course will be 11 a.m.-noon ET and attendees will earn one CPE credit. 
    • CFOs as Leaders of Organizational Change (CFO1) will feature a panel facilitated by Cory Ng, Surgent’s accounting and auditing content developer, and will include Avia Yudalevich and Landon Cortenbach, two leading CFOs from diverse industries. This program will discuss how CFOs are driving innovation and navigating economic challenges. This course will be held 1-2 p.m. ET and attendees will earn one CPE credit. 
    • The Threat and Opportunity to Accounting Posed by Generative AI and Other Emerging Technologies (GEN1) with Dr. Sean Stein Smith, associate professor at Lehman College; Jack Castonguay, Surgent vice president of learning and development; and James Madison University associate professor, Dr. Nicole Wright, will explore how AI and emerging technologies are reshaping audit functions by automating tasks like data analysis and fraud detection. It will also address challenges related to ethics, data security and the evolving role of auditors in the AI-driven landscape. This course will be held 2-3 p.m. ET and attendees will earn one CPE credit. 
    • Quarterly Update: The FASB, AICPA, SEC, and PCAOB (QFA2) with Jack Castonguay and Cory Ng will cover new FASB, SEC, and PCAOB standards. This session provides an overview of key updates from the FASB, SEC and PCAOB. Attendees will learn about recent changes to accounting standards and auditing regulations, including new standards and guidance, and their impact on financial reporting. This course will be held 3-5 p.m. ET and attendees will earn two CPE credits. 

    Thursday, Nov. 14

    The Knowledge Summit continues with a day dedicated to the tax industry and how the 2024 presidential and congressional elections will impact the profession. Here is a rundown of the CPE webinars that Surgent has planned for the day:

    • 2024 Tax Changes and Year-end Planning Opportunities (YT24) featuring Surgent instructor Mike Tucker; Shannon Retzke Smith, a partner in the international law firm Withers Bergman; and Lance Weiss, a CPA and member of SFW Partners, LLC in St. Louis; will cover the key 2024 tax law changes and their implications for year-end planning. Attendees will gain valuable insights into new tax strategies and opportunities to optimize their tax positions before the end of the year. This course will be held 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. ET and attendees will earn four CPE credits.
    • How Our Economy and Markets Perform in Election Years (ELY2) will feature David Peters, founder and owner of Peters Tax Preparation & Consulting in Richmond, Va., and financial advisor for Peters Financial, LLC. This course will look at the economic cycle and the effect of election years. It will examine how certain key investments have performed, examine why this year is unique and look at how major tax policy changes affect our economy. This course will be held 1-3 p.m. ET and attendees will earn two CPE credits. 
    • Post-election Coverage of Potential Tax Changes and Planning Strategies (PEL2) with Mike Tucker, Ken Kies, Lance Weiss and Ed Renn, of counsel at the international tax law firm Withers Bergman, will examine potential tax law changes following the recent election. This course will explore how shifts in tax policy may impact individuals and businesses, offering strategies to adapt and plan for potential legislative changes. Participants will learn to navigate the evolving tax landscape. This course will be held 3-5 p.m. ET and attendees will earn two CPE credits.

    Friday, Nov. 15

    Mock CPA Exam
    The Surgent Knowledge Summit concludes with a free virtual mock CPA exam facilitated by Michael Matthews, director of state society partnerships at Surgent. This online event will allow CPA candidates to practice CPA exam questions, pinpoint their strengths and identify areas that need extra attention before their exam day. By simulating the actual exam, candidates will gain the confidence and insights needed to improve their performance. Plus, they will receive detailed feedback to guide them through their final stages of preparation. The mock exam will be at 3 p.m. ET and is open to the public.

    About Surgent
    Surgent Accounting & Financial Education, a division of KnowFully Learning Group, is a provider of the high-impact education experiences that accounting, tax and financial professionals need throughout their careers. For most of the company’s 35-year history, Surgent has been a trusted provider of the continuing professional education (CPE), continuing education (CE) and skill-based training that professionals need to maintain their credentials and stay current on industry changes. More recently, Surgent became one of the fastest-growing certification exam review providers, offering adaptive learning-based courses that help learners pass accounting and finance credentialing exams faster. Learn more at Surgent.com. 

    About KnowFully  
    KnowFully Learning Group provides continuing professional education, exam preparation courses and education resources to the accounting, finance and healthcare sectors. KnowFully’s suite of learning solutions helps learners become credentialed, satisfy required credit hours to maintain credentials, and stay informed on the latest trends and critical changes in their industries over the course of their careers. The company provides exam preparation and continuing education for accounting, finance and tax professionals under the Surgent Accounting & Financial Education brand. KnowFully’s healthcare education brands include CME Outfitters, CE Concepts, PharmCon, The Rx Consultant, ChiroCredit, IA Med, EMT & Fire Training Inc., Psychotherapy.net and American Fitness Professionals & Associates. For more information, please visit KnowFully.com.

    SOURCE: Surgent Accounting & Financial Education

    Contact:
    marketing@surgent.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at
    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/697a0e4f-d78c-414e-8545-08e12377070c

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: AutoScheduler.AI and Softeon Host LinkedIn Live Event: The Future of Warehouse Productivity: Strategies for Supply Chain Success

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    AUSTIN, Texas, Oct. 16, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — AutoScheduler.AI, an innovative Warehouse Orchestration Platform and WMS accelerator announces that Keith Moore, CEO of AutoScheduler.AI, and Mark Fralick, CTO from Softeon, will discuss on a LinkedIn Live session the future of warehouse productivity and the strategies that will define success in today’s supply chain. The free event occurs on October 31, 2024, at 1:00 PM EDT.

    As the warehouse management landscape evolves, businesses face increasing pressure to optimize operations, integrate advanced technologies, and respond to labor and demand volatility. In this session, Keith and Mark will explore the power of warehouse orchestration—a game-changing approach that combines automation, real-time data, and predictive analytics to maximize efficiency.

    Sign up for the Live Event at: https://www.linkedin.com/events/7252297224133451776/comments/

    “Whether your business is dealing with ongoing labor challenges or looking to future-proof your warehouse operations, this LinkedIn Live session will provide actionable insights to help you stay ahead in the rapidly changing world of supply chain management,” says Keith Moore, CEO of AutoScheduler.AI. “Don’t miss this opportunity to hear about the innovations shaping the future of warehouse productivity.”

    Attendees will learn:

    • How warehouse orchestration can optimize workflows, minimize downtime, and enhance labor productivity.
    • How to leverage technology to gain real-time operational visibility and improve decision-making.
    • What are the practical strategies for addressing the growing complexity of supply chain operations.

    As CEO of AutoScheduler.AI, Keith Moore is a warehousing visionary, working with top Consumer Goods, Food, Beverage, Retail, and Distribution companies to drive efficiencies and improve on-time, in-full fulfillment. He is focused on bringing advanced technologies like AI and ML to the supply chain in network optimization and warehouse orchestration. Keith holds multiple patents in neural architecture search and supply chain planning. He has been published in trade journals and industry groups like SupplyChainBrain, Inbound Logistics, ISSA, and OTC for his work in logistics, cyber security, and predictive maintenance applications.

    Mark Fralick serves as Softeon’s Chief Technology Officer, driving its architectural platform, deployment infrastructure, and operating platform. For his work as a WMS architect, he has been called the “Godfather of the Modern WMS.” Mark has been a leader in the Warehouse Management System sector for three decades and a pioneer in the development of WMS technologies. His expertise and strategic vision contribute to Softeon’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge technology solutions, emphasizing optimizing value for its clientele.

    About AutoScheduler.AI
    AutoScheduler.AI orchestrates warehouse activities directly on top of your WMS, optimizing operations for peak performance. Developed alongside industry leaders like P&G and successfully deployed at prominent companies such as Pepsi, General Mills, and Unilever, our AI and Machine Learning platform seamlessly integrates with your existing systems. Focused on labor planning, inventory workflow, human-robotics interaction, and space utilization, we streamline operations, reducing travel and inventory handling while maximizing OTIF rates and labor efficiency. With prescriptive analytics driving insights, our clients harness the power to enhance efficiencies and generate value across their supply chains. Reach out to us at info@autoscheduler.ai for more information.

    About Softeon
    Softeon is a WMS provider focused exclusively on optimizing warehouse and fulfillment operations. For over two decades now, we have been helping our customers succeed. Investing in R&D enables us to develop software to solve the most complex warehouse challenges. Softeon is laser-focused on customer results, with a 100% track record of deployment success. We believe warehouse leaders shouldn’t have to settle for a one-size-fits-all all approach to technology. For more information, please visit http://www.Softeon.com.

    Contact:
    Becky Boyd
    MediaFirst PR
    Becky@MediaFirst.Net
    Cell: (404) 421-8497

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Brown Secures Major Investment for The North Coast Connector

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Ohio Sherrod Brown
    CLEVELAND, OH – Today, U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown (D-OH) announced a new infrastructure investment for the City of Cleveland to connect downtown Cleveland with Lake Erie and improve the downtown transportation network.
    The North Coast Connector project will help transform downtown Cleveland by creating a 120-foot-wide land bridge for pedestrians and reconfigure a two-mile freeway segment that separates Cleveland from its lakefront into a modern and safe boulevard. The City’s project will also construct a new consolidated terminal serving Amtrak, the Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority (RTA) and intercity bus service. The project’s expanded connections between downtown Cleveland and Cleveland’s lakefront will provide greater mobility and accelerate plans to build new public green space and redevelop underutilized lakefront property. Brown advocated for the U.S. Department of Transportation to support this project.
    “This investment unlocks an exciting new future for Cleveland’s lakefront and downtown. The Cleveland community and our visitors will have new access to Lake Erie, our greatest natural resource, and a better transportation network that will drive growth,” said Brown. “I want to thank Mayor Bibb, County Executive Ronayne, and Cleveland’s business community who all worked with us to support this project that will be transformational for all of us who call Cleveland home.”
    The City’s North Coast Connector project will redesign a two-mile segment of the Memorial Shoreway (State Route 2) to establish new connections between downtown and improve pedestrian safety. The project’s pedestrian bridge will create a wide, park-like land bridge to allow walkers and bikers to safely travel from the core of downtown at the Cleveland Mall to the lakefront amenities. The City’s plans also include a new multimodal station to serve Amtrak and RTA rail services, and a dedicated, grade-separated truck route that will serve the Port of Cleveland to reduce truck queuing and eliminate pedestrian conflicts, ensuring greater safety and reliability for trucks enter and existing the Port.   
    The Department of Transportation (DOT) has awarded the nearly $60 million investment through the Nationally Significant Multimodal Freight & Highway Projects program (known as the INFRA program) and the funding is being distributed under the Multimodal Project Discretionary Grant Program competition. The investment was made possible by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which Brown helped write and pass. This funding award will support the design, engineering, and construction of road elements, including the port access road, and Brown is supporting additional federal funding requests to accelerate construction of the overall project. 
    The project’s construction of a new multimodal Amtrak station will also help prepare Cleveland for the expansion of Amtrak service under development. Last December, Brown announced that two routes serving Cleveland were selected as priorities for Amtrak expansion: Cleveland-Columbus-Dayton-Cincinnati, the 3C+D corridor, and the Cleveland-Toledo-Detroit corridor. In addition, in May of 2023 Brown announced that the Cleveland RTA received funding for new rail cars, and the new rail cars will give the RTA the ability to provide direct service from across the agency’s network to the new lakefront station.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Fannie Mae Forgoes Issuing Benchmark Notes on October 16, 2024 Announcement Date

    Source: Fannie Mae

    About Fannie Mae
    Fannie Mae advances equitable and sustainable access to homeownership and quality, affordable rental housing for millions of people across America. We enable the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage and drive responsible innovation to make homebuying and renting easier, fairer, and more accessible. To learn more, visit:
    fanniemae.com | X (formerly Twitter) | Facebook | LinkedIn | Instagram | YouTube | Blog

    Media Contact
    Christopher Davis
    202-752-7724

    Fannie Mae Newsroom
    https://www.fanniemae.com/news

    Photo of Fannie Mae
    https://www.fanniemae.com/resources/img/about-fm/fm-building.tif

    Fannie Mae Resource Center
    1-800-2FANNIE

    This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy securities of Fannie Mae. Nothing in this press release constitutes advice on the merits of buying or selling a particular investment. Any investment decision as to any purchase of securities referred to herein must be made solely on the basis of information contained in Fannie Mae’s applicable Offering Circular, and no reliance may be placed on the completeness or accuracy of the information contained in this press release.

    You should not deal in securities unless you understand their nature and the extent of your exposure to risk. You should be satisfied that they are suitable for you in light of your circumstances and financial position. If you are in any doubt you should consult an appropriately qualified financial advisor.

    Benchmark Notes and Benchmark Securities are registered trademarks of Fannie Mae. Unauthorized use of these trademarks is prohibited.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI: Mountain America Named a Top Workplace by The Salt Lake Tribune

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SANDY, Utah, Oct. 16, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Mountain America Credit Union has been ranked 4th out of 154 workplaces and is the highest-ranked financial institution to receive a Top Workplaces 2024 honor by The Salt Lake Tribune. This award is based on feedback from employees, collected through Energage, an independent employee engagement technology partner. The Salt Lake Tribune recently announced the rankings.

    “Achieving the Top Workplace status for 2024 is a testament to the dedication and enthusiasm of our teams,” said Trent Savage, chief human resources officer at Mountain America. “We are committed to creating a workplace where team members feel valued and motivated. This award reflects our efforts to foster a culture of growth and development.”

    A Media Snippet accompanying this announcement is available by clicking on this link.

    Mountain America is committed to maintaining a high-quality workplace culture by emphasizing collaboration, innovation, and service excellence. This recognition showcases the dedication of our team members and their commitment to making the credit union an exceptional place to work.

    “This award is a tribute to our dedicated team members who are the heart of Mountain America,” said Sterling Nielsen, president and chief executive officer at Mountain America. “Their feedback drives our continuous improvement and commitment to creating a workplace where everyone feels respected, supported, and empowered to succeed.”

    The 2024 Salt Lake Tribune Top Workplaces award is based entirely on feedback from an employee engagement survey. The confidential survey measures various aspects of the employee experience, including respect, support, growth opportunities, and empowerment.

    For more information about Top Workplaces, please visit https://topworkplaces.sltrib.com/

    About Mountain America Credit Union
    With more than 1 million members and $19 billion in assets, Mountain America Credit Union helps its members define and achieve their financial dreams. Mountain America provides consumers and businesses with various convenient, flexible products and services and sound, timely advice. Members enjoy access to secure, cutting-edge mobile banking technology, over 100 branches across six states, and over 50,000 surcharge-free ATMs. Mountain America—guiding you forward. Learn more at macu.com.  

    Contact: publicrelations@macu.com, macu.com/newsroom

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Expansion of the emerald ash borer regulated area into the city of Burnaby

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has updated its regulated areas for emerald ash borer (EAB – Agrilus planipennis) to include the City of Burnaby, in an effort to slow the insect’s spread.

    Oct. 16, 2024 – Canadian Food Inspection Agency

    The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has updated its regulated areas for emerald ash borer (EAB – Agrilus planipennis) to include the City of Burnaby, in an effort to slow the insect’s spread.

    The regulated area in British-Columbia now includes the City of Burnaby along with the City of Vancouver, the University of British Columbia (UBC) campus, and the University Endowment Lands (UEL).

    EAB is commonly spread through the movement of firewood and other infested ash wood products, although it can also spread on its own by flying up to 10 kilometers.

    Effective immediately, ash material (such as logs, branches and woodchips) and all species of firewood cannot be moved outside of the regulated area without permission from the CFIA. If you need to move ash material, please contact your local CFIA office to request written authorization.

    Although the EAB poses no threat to human health, it is highly destructive to ash trees. It has already killed millions of ash trees in regulated areas in Canada and the United States and poses a major economic and environmental threat to urban and forested areas of North America.

    The CFIA will continue to survey and monitor the spread of this pest in British Columbia and will continue to work with federal, provincial, municipal and First Nations partners and organizations to slow its spread.

    If you spot EAB outside regulated areas, report it to the CFIA to help stop the spread.

    The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) touches the lives of all Canadians in so many positive ways. Each day, hard-working CFIA employees – including inspectors, veterinarians and scientists – inspect food for safety risks, protect plants from pests and invasive species, and respond to animal diseases that could threaten Canada’s national herd and human health. Guided by science-based decision-making and modern regulations, the Agency works tirelessly to ensure access to safe and healthy food in Canada, and support access to international markets for our high-quality agricultural products. To learn more, visit inspection.canada.ca.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Death of an inmate from Joyceville Institution

    Source: Government of Canada News

    On October 15 2024, Donald Musselman, an inmate from Joyceville Institution, died while in our custody.

    October 16, 2024 – Joyceville, Ontario – Correctional Service Canada

    On October 15 2024, Donald Musselman, an inmate from Joyceville Institution, died while in our custody.

    At the time of death, the inmate was 24 years old and had been serving an indeterminate sentence for Second Degree Murder, since May 21, 2024.

    The inmate’s next of kin have been notified.

    As in all cases involving the death of an inmate, the Correctional Service of Canada (CSC) will review the circumstances. CSC policy requires that the police and the coroner be notified.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Transit investments in Cape Breton Regional Municipality

    Source: Government of Canada News

    News release

    Cape Breton Regional Municipality, Nova Scotia, October 16, 2024 — Transit Cape Breton will have new buses on the road after an investment of more than $2.3 million from the federal government.

    This project was announced today by Parliamentary Secretary Jaime Battiste, MP for Sydney-Victoria, Parliamentary Secretary Mike Kelloway, MP for Cape Breton-Canso, and Mayor Amanda McDougall-Merrill.

    Transit Cape Breton will buy two new traditional buses, two new hybrid accessible mini buses, and build five new bus shelters. This project will include the implementation of a new on-demand software that will make paratransit service more efficient by improving ride booking, cutting down route travel time, and increasing the capacity of the service. The project will also support the introduction of a new smart card fare payment system, a contactless payment service that will make paying transit fares faster and easier. 

    Quotes

    “Public transit in CBRM is vital to our community, helping residents get to school and work on time, providing an accessible way to get to meetings and appointments, and offering an affordable alternative to driving. Our government is proud to support these equipment and service upgrades to Transit Cape Breton, building a public transit system that Cape Bretoners can rely on.”

    Jaime Battiste, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Member of Parliament for Sydney–Victoria on behalf of the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities

    “Investments in Cape Breton Transit ensure that residents across CBRM from Howie Centre to Glace Bay can get to where they need to go with confidence. This project is going to make scheduling easier and day-to-day commutes better for residents of CBRM.”

    Mike Kelloway, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard and Member of Parliament for Cape Breton–Canso

    “Today marks a significant step forward for our community as we announce vital funding for rural transit in the Cape Breton Regional Municipality. This investment through the Rural Transit Solutions Fund will enhance rural accessibility, connect communities, and support our growing population. Access to transportation is essential in building an inclusive and thriving community – this fund will open up opportunities for employment, education and social events to residents across the CBRM.” 

    Amanda McDougall-Merrill, Mayor of Cape Breton Regional Municipality

    Quick facts

    • The federal government is investing $2,380,000 in this project through the Rural Transit Solutions Fund (RTSF), and Cape Breton Regional Municipality is contributing $595,000.

    • The RTSF helps Canadians living in rural and remote areas get around their communities more easily. It supports the development of rural transit solutions, including new transit service models that could be replicated or scaled up.

    • The RTSF’s Capital Projects stream helps cover capital costs like the purchase of vehicles or digital platforms, as well as support for the purchase of zero-emission vehicles. This stream closed on February 28, 2024.

    • A minimum of 10% of RTSF’s funding is allocated to projects that benefit Indigenous populations and communities.

    • One in five Canadians live in rural communities. Rural communities in Canada account for nearly 30% of the nation’s gross domestic product.

    • The RTSF complements Canada’s strengthened climate plan: A Healthy Environment and a Healthy Economy. Through the plan the federal government has committed to providing federal funding for public transit in support of making clean and affordable transportation available in every community. 

    • The new Canada Public Transit Fund (CPTF) will provide an average of $3 billion a year of permanent funding to respond to local transit needs by enhancing integrated planning, improving access to public transit and active transportation, and supporting the development of more affordable, sustainable, and inclusive communities. 

    • Since 2015, the federal government has committed over $30 billion for public transit and active transportation projects. These historic investments have resulted in close to 2000 projects across the country.

    • The funding announced today builds on the federal government’s work through the Atlantic Growth Strategy to create well-paying jobs and strengthen local economies.

    • Federal funding is conditional on the signing of a contribution agreement.

    Associated links

    Contacts

    For more information (media only), please contact:

    Sofia Ouslis
    Communications Advisor
    Office of the Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities
    Sofia.ouslis@infc.gc.ca

    Media Relations
    Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada
    613-960-9251
    Toll free: 1-877-250-7154
    Email: media-medias@infc.gc.ca
    Follow us on X, Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn
    Web: Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada

    Rob MacNamara 
    Communications Advisor – Mayor’s Office
    Cape Breton Regional Municipality
    902-563-5297   
    rjmacnamara@cbrm.ns.ca

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: VR developments, game design, online communities: the gaming industry festival took place at the HSE

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: State University Higher School of Economics – State University Higher School of Economics –

    The festival “I want to go to gamedev!” has ended at the business school. It was organized by a team of teachers and graduates of the “Game Project Management” program. More than 220 representatives of the gaming industry gathered at the HSE campus on Shabolovka: from beginners to developers, scriptwriters and other gamedev professionals. The initiators of the project offered a vibrant program so that participants could immediately immerse themselves in showcase projects, master classes and discussions, lectures from industry gurus – neither theoretical nor practical aspects of game development were forgotten. The festival partner is the company “Virtual Glasses”.

    The showcase zone became a special highlight of the event – students of the Game Project Management program launched their projects here. One of them was the game Twilight Wars, created by graduates and teacher Sergey Golubkin, which was recently released in early access on the VK Play platform. Participants were lucky to see the premiere from the Terrabyte Games team and blogger Daria Ostrovskaya – the game Run Away from Me: Alexandra – and many other promising projects. The children’s development project KnigaKit, developed by a graduate of the program and winner of the All-Russian competition Start the Game, the stand of the Vengeance Games studio with their projects Azrael: Herald of the Death and Shadows of Vengeance, the cooperative shooter Ironwaste from the team of a 21games graduate.

    A separate area of the festival was dedicated to virtual and augmented reality technologies. The latest VR developments were tested here, such as the role-playing VR shooter “Dixotomia” and the new VR game “Smasher VR” from the BHS team.

    A special guest of the festival was Anastasia Shalunkova with the team of one of the largest communities of independent developers – “Gamedev Schrödinger”. They held a master class on creating mascots and organizing online communities and discussed with the participants the future of “Gamedev Schrödinger” and cooperation with regional developers. Together with them, partners from the All-Russian competition “Start the game” took part in the event, which became a social lift for many developers. They held many activities and presented branded gifts.

    The lecture part of the festival started with a greeting from Vyacheslav Utochkin, head of the Game Project Management program. The first speaker, Konstantin Sakhnov, producer and founder of Vengeance Games, talked about how to become a game designer, what skills are needed for this and how to prepare for work in the industry. Oleg Dobroshtan picked up the topic of project management and talked about the importance of assembling the right team and keeping it motivated. Sergey Chekmaev, writer, screenwriter, literary producer, member of the Board of the Union of Writers of the Russian Federation, and Nikolay Kalinichenko, Chairman of the Union of Writers of the Russian Federation, announced the release of books on game franchises. Vyacheslav Utochkin and Sergey Zykov, teachers of the Game Project Management program, together with representatives and members of the Union of Writers, presented a book in the RealRPG genre about a game designer who finds himself in the world of a game. The series of announcements was completed by the news about the opening of the Dzen Games Studio, created by future students of the “Game Project Management” program with the support of teachers.

    Ilya Boytsov, another speaker at the festival, founder of the Midhard studio, also a graduate and teacher of the HSB program, shared his experience of working in the gaming industry, spoke about the risks and successes of his path. The speech by Andrey Malakhov, game director of Mensa Studio, was devoted to pitching projects and evaluating ideas at the early stages of development.

    The final chord of the event was a round table, where invited experts and guests discussed current trends in game design. The discussion was attended by famous figures in the gaming industry: Konstantin Sakhnov, game producer and founder of the Vengeance Games studio, Vladimir Agarev, creative director of the Jay-Joy studio, Olga Maksimenkova, associate professor of the Faculty of Computer Science at the National Research University Higher School of Economics, and Denis Pozdnyakov, co-owner of the Vintorog and Contrast Games studios. The speakers discussed artificial intelligence in game development, the growth of indie projects, and new opportunities for developers through government funds and grants.

    The “I Want to Be in Gamedev!” festival at the Higher School of Business of the National Research University Higher School of Economics has become a landmark event for everyone interested in the gaming industry.

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

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    http://gsb.hse.ru/nevs/975637470.html

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: AG Platkin, Division of Consumer Affairs Announce New Rules Aimed at Promoting Greater Transparency in Prescription Drug Pricing, Including How and Why Prices Are Increased

    Source: US State of New Jersey

    TRENTON –  Advancing the Murphy Administration’s efforts to rein in the high cost of prescription drugs in New Jersey, Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin and the Division of Consumer Affairs (“Division”) today announced specially adopted new rules promoting greater transparency in prescription drug pricing.

    The new rules, which became effective upon acceptance for filing by the Office of Administrative Law yesterday, implement P.L. 2023, c. 106, signed into law by Governor Murphy in July 2023 as part of a legislative package to combat the rising costs of prescription drugs in the state.

    “The high cost of prescription drugs is a financial burden that disproportionately impacts the health and well-being of the most vulnerable among us: low-income families, the elderly, the uninsured, and people with disabilities,” said Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin. “Until now, we’ve been kept in the dark about the main drivers of high prescription drug costs. The new rules allow us to gain greater insight into prescription drug pricing and a better understanding of how we can help advance the goal of prescription drug affordability and accessibility.”

    The new rules establish registration, reporting, and compliance requirements for five entities across the prescription drug supply chain—manufacturers, insurance carriers, pharmacy benefits managers, wholesalers and pharmacy services administrative organizations. The entities will be required to provide the Division with information and data pertaining to drugs with significant price increases or high launch prices and other drugs of interest. The Division will then use this information to produce an annual report on emerging trends in prescription drug prices.  The report, which will be posted on the Division’s newly created prescription drug pricing webpage, will also be used to help the newly created Drug Affordability Council formulate legislative and regulatory policy recommendations focused on prescription drug affordability.

    “Establishing rules for the collection, analysis, and reporting of information that sheds light on drug pricing is integral to the Division’s core mission of ensuring fairness and transparency in the market for goods and services,” said Cari Fais, Acting Director of the Division of Consumer Affairs. “The information we collect will help us identify factors that contribute to the high cost of prescription drugs and improve oversight of the drug industry to the benefit of New Jersey consumers.”

    Under the new rules:

    • Manufacturers must notify the Division of price increases and new drugs that meet statutory price thresholds, and then report more detailed information on those drugs to the Division;
    • Carriers must report to the Division information on spending for the top 25 prescription drugs and drug groups in certain categories;
    • Pharmacy Services Administrative Organizations (PSAOs) must report negotiated reimbursement rates to the Division; and
    • Wholesalers and Pharmacy Benefits Managers must provide pricing, volume, and discount information for drugs and drug groups identified by the Division as a result of the information provided by the manufacturers, carriers, and PSAOs.

    The specially adopted new rules shall be effective for a period not to exceed 545 days from the date of filing. Concurrently, the provisions of the new rules will be proposed for readoption and published in the NJ Register on November 18, 2024, in accordance with the normal rulemaking requirements of the Administrative Procedure Act, N.J.S.A. 52:14B-1 et seq.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: National Drought Group discusses preparations for extreme weather

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Water resources are healthy following the wettest 12 months in England since 1836

    The changing climate means we will see more extreme weather in the coming years, the National Drought Group heard at its latest meeting today (16 October 2024), which was attended by Water Minister Emma Hardy.

    The Environment Agency chaired a routine meeting of the expert group today in which it was confirmed that water resources are currently healthy following the wettest 12 months (October 2023 to September 2024) on record in England. However, the Group discussed that flood and drought should be viewed as different sides of the same coin and England needs to be prepared for an increase of both in the coming years.

    Despite recent warnings about flood preparedness, the Environment Agency reiterated that droughts are likely to become more frequent and more severe in future, and we need to be ready for all rainfall scenarios. Extreme dry weather can come unexpectedly, as happened in the summer of 2022, and can impact our lives in various ways, including on agriculture. At the meeting, attendees heard about the challenges farmers and growers have experienced this year in managing the variable weather conditions. The importance of making the environment more resilient to the impacts of all weather extremes was also discussed.  

    It comes a week after the Environment Agency warned there were significant areas of under-delivery against water resource management plans, meaning improvements are needed in order to manage water supplies efficiently and sustainably.

    Chairing the meeting, Environment Agency Director of Water, Helen Wakeham said:

    Heavier rainfall and drier summers are the shape of things to come, and this will be an enormous challenge over the next few decades.  

    As well as preparing for floods, we must ensure we are resilient to drought, and we cannot be complacent even when water resources are healthy. 

    Water companies must deliver on their commitments to improve infrastructure and rollout smart water meters, but we can all take small steps to reduce demand such as installing a water butt to capture rain to water the garden.

    Water and Floods Minister Emma Hardy said:

    Population growth and climate change is putting tremendous pressure on our water system, and we all saw in 2022 how quickly drought can take hold.  

    We need to be prepared for all eventualities and the government is taking decisive action to improve the resilience of our precious water supplies.  

    This Government will secure investment to upgrade our crumbling water infrastructure, which in turn will help fix leaks and ensure water is used more efficiently.

    The National Drought Group – which includes the government, regulators, water companies, farmers, conservation experts and the Met Office   – heard about the current water resources situation:

    • The last 12 months has been the wettest October to September on record since 1836 for England. Some parts of the country received more than three times the average rainfall in September.

    • Reservoir storage across England was at 76% of total capacity at the end of September.

    • River flows in September were normal or higher at three-quarters of sites, with a third ‘exceptionally high’ for the time of year.

    • Groundwater levels usually continue to decline in September and, despite the wet weather, this is the case for the majority of sites. However, we are now seeing groundwater levels in early October rising in many aquifers in response to the exceptionally wet September. 

    Water resources

    By 2050, England will need to find an additional 5 billion litres of water a day to meet demand for public water supply. This is more than a third of the 14 billion litres of water currently put into the public water supply. To bridge the gap between supply and demand, proposed developments over the next three decades include nine new reservoirs. However, earlier this month the EA warned of under-delivery against these plans, noting that some water companies wouldn’t have had sufficient water supply to meet planned levels of resilience in the event of a drought last year.

    In the last six months, regulators – including the EA, Ofwat and Natural England – have been working with all water companies on their final 2025-2030 Water Resource Management Plans. National Drought Group members also heard that the EA will launch an eight-week public consultation in the coming weeks on how drought is managed in England, calling for public views on the document and input into its operational area drought plans.

    Further information

    The meeting follows recent measures announced by the government and the Environment Agency to drive improvements across the water sector.  

    • 100% of storm overflows are monitored which helps the Environment Agency to inspect water companies and ensure they are operating within their permits. 

    • The EA is implementing a fourfold increase in water company inspections to hold companies to account – 4000 will be carried out by the end of March 2025, and 10,000 in 2025/26. 

    • The EA is recruiting up to 500 additional staff and using more data-driven analytics to identify any non-compliance and take action.  

    • The EA is conducting its largest ever criminal investigation into potential widespread non-compliance by water and sewerage companies at thousands of sewage treatment works. Tough enforcement action has already led to over £151m in fines since 2015.   

    • In his first week, the Secretary of State for Environment Food and Rural Affairs Steve Reed announced a series of initial steps towards ending the crisis in the water sector.

    • After writing to Ofwat, the Secretary of State has secured agreement that funding for vital infrastructure investment is ringfenced and can only be spent on upgrades benefiting customers and the environment. Ofwat will also ensure that when money for investment is not spent, companies refund customers, with money never allowed to be diverted for bonuses, dividends or salary increases.

    • Water companies will place customers and the environment at the heart of their objectives. Companies have agreed to change their ‘Articles of Association’ – the rules governing each company – to make the interests of customers and the environment a primary objective.

    • There will be strengthened protection and compensation for households and businesses when their basic water services are affected. Subject to consultation, the amount of compensation customers are legally entitled to when key standards are not met will more than double. The payments will also be triggered by a wider set of circumstances including Boil Water Notices.

    • The Secretary of State has announced that the Government will be carrying out a review to fundamentally transform how our water system works and clean up our rivers, lakes and seas for good.

    • The Water (Special Measures) Bill has been introduced to Parliament. It will:

      • Strengthen regulation to ensure water bosses face personal criminal liability for lawbreaking.
      • Give the water regulator new powers to ban the payment of bonuses if environmental standards are not met.
      • Boost accountability for water executives through fitness and proprietary tests.
      • Introduce new powers to bring automatic and severe fines.
      • Require water companies to install real-time monitors at every sewage outlet with data independently scrutinised by the water regulators.

    Updates to this page

    Published 16 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Find cheaper airfare with this new Google Flights feature

    Source: Google

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