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MIL-OSI Russia: Financial News: The Financial Navigator Program Will Start on October 3

MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Central Bank of Russia –

The Bank of Russia webinars on personal finance and investments are designed for young people and adult listeners. The knowledge gained from them will help you competently build a personal strategy to achieve your financial goals and learn how to avoid possible financial traps.

The program has two thematic blocks. The first is devoted to the basics and principles of investing. The classes will cover the nuances of various investment products, the rules for forming an investment portfolio taking into account the acceptable level of risk, safe financial transactions, and choosing an intermediary. The second block focuses on financial planning and reasonable savings. Participants will also discuss how to get out of a difficult financial situation and learn about the rules of responsible borrowing.

The webinars provide the opportunity for live communication. The lecturers will be experts from the Bank of Russia, and everyone will be able to ask questions about finances live.

To participate in the program, simply register on the website projectYou can join webinars individually or as part of a group.

The program will end on December 13, 2024.

Preview photo: maxbelchenko / Shutterstock / Fotodom

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://vvv.kbr.ru/press/event/?id=21056

EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and or sentence structure not be perfect.

MIL OSI Russia News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UN and African Union collaboration is vital for tackling conflicts in Africa: UK statement at the UN Security Council

Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

Statement by Ambassador James Kariuki, UK Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on cooperation between the UN and the African Union.

Location:

United Nations, New York

Delivered on:

2 October 2024 (Transcript of the speech, exactly as it was delivered)

I will make three points.

First, the UK welcomes the African Union’s leadership in championing multilateralism and supporting stability and prosperity across Africa. We praise the AU’s work driving and sustaining peace and security on the continent and its focus on putting women and youth at the centre of peace-making, peacekeeping and peacebuilding.

We welcome African leadership in this council and have long supported permanent African representation.

Second, we reaffirm our support for the deepening cooperation and partnership between the UN and the AU to advance our shared objectives. This is especially evident in Somalia.

We express our gratitude to the AU and troop contributing countries who, with the coordination and input of the UN Support Office for Somalia, have worked tirelessly to improve security in Somalia through the ATMIS mission.

We look forward to receiving the proposals by the UN and AU, in consultation with Somalia and international stakeholders, finalising the mission design for ATMIS’ successor, in line with Resolution 2748.

It is imperative that the final mission is financially viable and deliverable, and that it supports Somalia’s efforts to eventually assume full responsibility for, and ownership of, its security.

Third, we welcome the work of the joint UN-AU taskforce to prepare implementation of Resolution 2719, including in the critical areas of joint planning and decision making, financing and budgeting, human rights compliance, and protection of civilians. Sustained close collaboration between the UN and the AU will be essential to ensure 2719’s success.

We encourage member states to continue to support the AU in developing their frameworks. We look forward to receiving the joint roadmap, including a realistic assessment of needs and timeframes, and welcome this Council being kept updated on progress.

President, in conclusion, the UK looks forward to further collaboration, cooperation and partnership between the UN and the AU. This will be vital to help silence the guns and tackle the greatest challenges and conflicts on the continent.

We look forward to the consultations between the UN Security Council and the AU Peace and Security Council later this month.

Updates to this page

Published 2 October 2024

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Cassidy Announces Grant for Small Business Incubator in Jefferson Parish

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy
BATON ROUGE – This morning, U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) joined officials from JEDCO (Jefferson Parish Economic Development Commission), Greater New Orleans, Inc., and the Louisiana Department of Economic Development to announce the launch of the GNO Food and Beverage Incubator at the Churchill Technology and Business Park. Nearly half of the incubator’s start-up costs were provided by a U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) grant.
“Louisiana’s food is the best in the world and this incubator will help keep it that way,” said Dr. Cassidy. “Chefs and caterers will use its kitchen space to serve new clients. They’ll grow their businesses and add to our culinary legacy.”
JEDCO recently was awarded $4.2 million from various agencies to launch the GNO Food and Beverage Incubator, including $2 million from the EDA. This incubator was made necessary after the closing of Edible Enterprises, the only food and beverage incubator in the Greater New Orleans area, which sustained severe damage from Hurricane Ida.
The food and beverage industry already has an enormous impact on Louisiana’s economy, especially via tourism. According to Oxford Economics in 2022, over $4.7 billion in direct, indirect, and induced food and beverage sales were generated by visitors to Louisiana. Additionally, the National Restaurant Association says there were 11,275 restaurants last year in Louisiana, supporting over 200,000 jobs.
The incubator will provide small food and beverage businesses and start-ups with commercial kitchen space and technical assistance, in order for them to grow and service their clients. It will include three commercial kitchens and training and demonstration space, totaling 15,000 square feet.
Cassidy praised everyone involved with the incubator for their efforts and was thanked for his support in a statement by JEDCO President and CEO Jerry Bologna.
“It was an honor to welcome Senator Cassidy to Churchill Technology and Business Park today to announce the development of the Greater New Orleans Food + Beverage Incubator,” said Mr. Bologna. “JEDCO received a $2 million EDA grant and matching state and local dollars that will fund the design, engineering and construction of the facility, which fulfills a critical regional need. This incubator will be the only facility of its kind in the area, further solidifying Jefferson Parish and all of Greater New Orleans as a destination for culinary manufacturing and innovation. This project would not be possible without the support of our federal delegation. We are tremendously grateful for Senator Cassidy’s support.”

MIL OSI USA News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Senator Murray Delivers $5 Million in Workforce Training Funds for Central Washington

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray
ICYMI: Senator Murray advocates for the reauthorization of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA)
Murray authored the bill that established the grant program providing OIC with $5 million in 2014 and has funded it ever since
Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), a senior member and former Chair of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee, announced a $5,048,619 million grant for the Opportunities Industrialization Center (OIC) of Washington to provide training, support, and career services to help migrant and seasonal farmworkers and their dependents develop skills to pursue careers in agriculture or non-agriculture sectors.
“I hear all the time from businesses across our state who need more skilled workers, and workers who want to set themselves and their families up for success,” said Senator Murray. “With this grant the OIC will be able to provide comprehensive workforce and educational training for our farmworkers and their families in Central Washington. Investing in this kind of workforce training not only helps us build a strong economy for our state and nation, but helps make life better for people in Washington state.”
The OIC is an economic development and career training agency in Yakima, Washington that educates, trains, and provides supportive services to low-income and rural communities. The Center has hosted programs on job skills training, high school completion, energy assistance, emergency food assistance, energy conservation, and youth and seniors in the region for over 50 years.
Murray secured funding to the OIC from the National Farmworker and Jobs Program within the U.S. Department of Labor’s Employment and Training Administration. The grant delivered is authorized through the bipartisan Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act(WIOA)—landmark legislation Murray authored and led passage of in 2014 to strengthen the nation’s workforce development programs, help Americans–including youth and those facing significant barriers to employment–acquire high-quality jobs and careers, and assist employers in hiring and retaining skilled workers.
Senator Murray has been a consistent advocate for federal investments to strengthen our workforce and support workers and employers across Washington state. In Congress, Murray is advocating for the reauthorization of WIOA. As Senate Appropriations Chair, Murray prioritizes protecting investments in workforce training and development, securing $2.9 billion in FY 2024 for WIOA formula grants and $285 million for Registered Apprenticeships. In the Senate FY 2025 funding bill she passed out of committee, Murray protected essential investments made in recent years by providing $2.9 billion for WIOA formula grants, $290 million for Registered Apprenticeships, and $110 million for YouthBuild while she sustained funding for other programs—such as Reentry Employment Opportunities.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Reed Delivers $250,000 for Saint Antoine Alzheimer’s Disease & Dementia Care

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Rhode Island Jack Reed
NORTH SMITHFIELD, RI – In an effort to ensure more Rhode Islanders who need memory care can access the support they need and comfortably ‘age in place’ while receiving top-notch services, U.S. Senator Jack Reed has teamed up with the Saint Antoine Community to deliver a $250,000 federal earmark for a new, state-of-the-art Assisted Living Memory Care Unit.
Saint Antoine’s newly renovated memory care unit features 24 home-like suites for patients with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia and has helped develop a new model of care for seniors with cognitive needs. The memory care unit brings together elements of more skilled health care, rehab, and behavioral support services to residents on the same campus, rather than transferring the resident to a different environment.
Senator Reed hopes that Saint Antoine’s new model of care can be applied elsewhere to help aging Americans across the country safely and comfortably ‘age in place’ and create a better model to advance treatment and improve care for seniors with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.
“Alzheimer’s is a devastating disease that impacts millions of Americans and their families. This federal earmark for the Saint Antoine Community is helping to create a new environment of compassion and support for Rhode Islanders with developing cognitive needs and will pioneer a new model of care that hopefully can assist other seniors across the country,” said Senator Reed, who recently helped pass major legislation to combat Alzheimer’s disease and invest in finding new treatments and a cure. “I’m grateful for the team and service providers at Saint Antoine who are working every day to support Rhode Islanders with Alzheimer’s and helping them age with dignity and comfort.”
Saint Antoine’s new model being employed at the Assisted Living Memory Care Unit allows for greater flexibility in the use of its facility, improved cost-effectiveness, and the ability for residents to ‘age in place.’ The new care unit has transformed two wings in an existing part of Saint Antoine Residence into a supportive community of hope and care for seniors.
“Saint Antoine Community stands out above all else when it comes to our continuum of care,” said Tammy Summiel, Executive Director of Primrose Lane Memory Care Assisted Living & The Villa Assisted Living. “Our population is living longer and memory care can place such an added burden on families who cannot manage all their needs at home. With the addition of Primrose Lane, Saint Antoine Community can further emphasize the importance of family above all else, and allow residents and their families to enjoy each other’s company without extra stress. We have further strengthened our continuum, while addressing a growing need for affordable memory care in Northern Rhode Island.”
Founded in 1913, Saint Antoine Community remains the largest long-term care facility in northern Rhode Island. All located on one campus, Saint Antoine Community provides access to rehabilitative services, assisted living, short/long term skilled care, and two tiers of residential memory care. Saint Antoine Community is located at 10 Rhodes Avenue, North Smithfield.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Casey, Fetterman, Boyle, Evans Secure More Than $15.4 Million to Retrofit Housing in Philadelphia, Lower Energy Costs for Seniors, Families, People with Disabilities

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Pennsylvania Bob Casey
Funding will support more resilient and energy efficient housing for lower income Philadelphians
St. George Athenagoras Manor, Cobbs Creek, and Inglis Gardens will receive funding
Awards, made possible by the Inflation Reduction Act, will bring down energy and housing costs for seniors, working families, people with disabilities
Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Bob Casey (D-PA) and John Fetterman (D-PA) and U.S. Representatives Brendan Boyle (D-PA-2) and Dwight Evans (D-PA-3) secured $15,440,000 in federal funds to improve units in three housing developments in Philadelphia: St. George Athenagoras Manor, Cobbs Creek, and Inglis Gardens. The funds come from grants and loans under the Green and Resilient Retrofit Program (GRRP) which was made possible by the Inflation Reduction Act.
“Every family deserves a safe, reliable, and affordable home,” said Senator Casey. “This funding will upgrade communities to ensure safer and more resilient and energy efficient housing in Philadelphia that will bring down costs for our families, seniors, and people with disabilities. I will always fight for investments that lower costs and expand the stock of reliable, affordable housing in our Commonwealth.”
“With this funding, the Biden-Harris administration is again making clear that it understands the need to invest in housing in the Commonwealth,” said Senator Fetterman. “These funds will improve utility efficiency and make housing more resilient for working families across Philadelphia. I’m proud to have helped bring these federal dollars to the commonwealth.”
The Inflation Reduction Act, that I voted for, will support the Green and Resilient Retrofit Program—a truly forward-thinking initiative that modernizes buildings while prioritizes sustainability and energy efficiency,” said Congressman Boyle. “By integrating green technology and resilient infrastructure, it ensures long-term benefits for both the environment and residents. This program sets a strong example of how we can work together to create healthier, more durable communities while reducing our collective carbon footprint.”
“I was proud to vote for the Biden-Harris administration’s historic investment in our environment, also known as the Inflation Reduction Act, which is delivering this more than $15 million in federal funding for more sustainable housing in Philadelphia,” said Representative Evans.
The Green and Resilient Retrofit Program (GRRP), awarded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), provides grant or loan funding to support housing development projects that reduce carbon emissions, improve energy efficiency, implement renewable energy generation, enhance indoor air quality, or improve the climate resilience of HUD-assisted multifamily properties. St. George Athenagoras Manor, an assisted living facility for seniors, will receive $7,520,000 to improve 94 housing units, Cobbs Creek will receive $6,800,000 to make improvements in 85 housing units for working families, and Inglis Gardens will receive $1,120,000 to improve 14 units for residents with disabilities.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Law Enforcement Endorses Casey’s Stop Fentanyl at the Border Act

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Pennsylvania Bob Casey
The Stop Fentanyl at the Border Act will increase staffing and technology to detect and stop the flow of fentanyl coming across the border
Bill has now been endorsed by the Fraternal Order of Police, National Association of Police Organizations, and other law enforcement organizations
Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) announced growing support from law enforcement organizations for his Stop Fentanyl at the Border Act, which would reduce the flow of fentanyl by providing much-needed resources to secure the southwest border. The bill, which would increase staffing capacity and technology to detect illicit drugs and other contraband being smuggled through ports of entry along the border, has now been endorsed by four major police organizations: the Fraternal Order of Police, the National Association of Police Organizations, Major County Sheriffs of America, and the National Narcotic Officers’ Associations’ Coalition. The bill is also now backed by the National Treasury Employees Union, which represents U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) employees.
“Pennsylvania law enforcement can’t tackle the fentanyl crisis when so much of the fentanyl devastating our families and communities is being smuggled across our southwest border,” said Senator Casey. “This bill will help provide the hardworking law enforcement officers at the border with the resources, technology, and support they need to stop the flow of fentanyl into Pennsylvania communities. I’m proud to have law enforcement support and I won’t stop until we’ve passed this commonsense legislation.”
“Our law enforcement members are the first line of defense against the scourge of fentanyl that comes across the American border each day,” said Patrick Yoes, National President of the Fraternal Order of Police. “Now more than ever, our country must invest in methods to stem the flow of fentanyl into our communities. This legislation will support our members by giving them the tools they need to support border operations and drug interdiction efforts.”
“Fentanyl is now the drug most associated with overdoses in the United States,” said Bill Johnson, the Executive Director of the National Association of Police Organizations. “This deadly poison is being mixed with other illicit drugs, hidden in counterfeit drugs, and being peddled at alarmingly high rates to our nation’s youth. The Stop Fentanyl at the Border Act provides much needed support, resources, and funding to the southwest border to help federal, state, and local law enforcement fight the trafficking of fentanyl and other illicit drugs into the country. Law enforcement at all levels of government have long been asking for these resources to support their efforts to prevent and detect fentanyl coming into this country and our communities. NAPO stands with Senator Casey in support of this important bill.”
The Stop Fentanyl at the Border Act would enable CBP to hire more officers and border patrol agents to increase capacity to stop illicit smuggling over the border. The bill also provides funding to purchase Non-Intrusive Inspection systems, which scan vehicles and cargo at the border to provide detailed images of their interiors, which leads to the detection of fentanyl and other illicit drugs. Additionally, the bill would create an inspection program to increase seizure of firearms, which Mexican cartels frequently purchase in the United States and smuggle into Mexico to support their fentanyl production operations and other violent criminal enterprises.
Senator Casey has been a leader in the Senate on efforts to prevent the spread of fentanyl into the United States. He has traveled around Pennsylvania meeting with law enforcement and families of victims of fentanyl overdoses as he pushed for passage of the FEND Off Fentanyl Act. In July, Senator Casey applauded the Senate passage of the Preventing the Financing of Illegal Synthetic Drugs Act, a bill that will direct the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) to investigate how transnational criminal organizations finance synthetic drug trafficking and help the federal government target them more effectively. In August, Casey led his colleagues in introducing the bipartisan Fighting Illicit Goods, Helping Trustworthy Importers, and Netting Gains (FIGHTING) for America Act to help CBP prevent fentanyl from entering the country undetected. In September, Casey introduced the Interdiction of Fentanyl at Federal Prisons Act, which would protect prison officers, staff, and inmates from fentanyl and other illicit substances entering the Federal Prison System through inmate mail.
Read more about the Stop Fentanyl at the Border Act here.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI: Innventure LLC and Learn CW Investment Corporation Announce Closing of Business Combination

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

ORLANDO, Fla., Oct. 02, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Innventure, Inc. (Nasdaq: INV) and Learn CW Investment Corporation (NASDAQ: LCW) (“Learn CW”), a special purpose acquisition company, today announced the completion of their previously announced business combination (“Business Combination”). The Business Combination was approved at an extraordinary general meeting of Learn CW’s shareholders on September 30, 2024. Upon the completion of the Business Combination, the combined company changed its name to Innventure, Inc. and its common stock is expected to begin trading on the Nasdaq Stock Market under the new ticker symbol “INV” beginning on October 3, 2024.

In connection with the closing of the Business Combination, Innventure is expected to ring the Closing Bell at 4 p.m. EST on October 3, 2024 at the Nasdaq Marketsite.

“We’re thrilled to reach this milestone, which supports our goal to found, fund and operate companies that offer transformative technology solutions,” said Bill Haskell, CEO of Innventure. “We believe becoming a public company creates a unique opportunity to offer investors access to technologies with early-stage economics and late-stage risk. I’m grateful to our partners at Learn CW for recognizing the value of our unique business model and supporting our vision to be a conglomerate of majority-owned companies. I’d also like to thank our multinational corporation partners for their engagement and collaboration, and the trust they put in us to commercialize their breakthrough technologies. We look forward to growing Innventure and maximizing shareholder value over the long term.”

Rob Hutter, CEO of Learn CW, added, “As someone who has spent my career in venture creation, I am thrilled to help bring Innventure to the public market. I believe this public listing will further accelerate Innventure’s credibility and standing as the innovation launch partner of choice for the world’s largest companies, giving Innventure, in my opinion, the pick of the best opportunities for years to come and enabling investors to share in a remarkable stream of innovative companies that could compound over time and that are available few other places.”

Innventure uses operational expertise to take what it believes to be breakthrough technologies sourced from multinational corporations to market. In the process, Innventure builds and scales companies around these technologies using a systematic, quantitative and repeatable analysis. Innventure has launched three such companies since its inception: PureCycle Technologies, Inc., AeroFlexx and Accelsius. PureCycle became a publicly traded company in 2021.

Advisors
Jones Day acted as legal advisor to Innventure, and Sidley Austin LLP acted as legal advisor to Learn CW. The Maples Group acted as Cayman legal advisor to Learn CW.

About Innventure
Innventure founds, funds, and operates companies with a focus on transformative, sustainable technology solutions acquired or licensed from multinational corporations. As owner-operators, Innventure takes what it believes to be breakthrough technologies from early evaluation to scaled commercialization utilizing an approach designed to help mitigate risk as it builds disruptive companies it believes have the potential to achieve a target enterprise value of at least $1 billion. Innventure defines ‘‘disruptive’’ as innovations that have the ability to significantly change the way businesses, industries, markets and/or consumers operate.

About Learn CW Investment Corporation
Learn CW Investment Corporation (“Learn CW”) was formed for the purpose of effecting a merger, share exchange, asset acquisition, share purchase, reorganization or similar Business Combination with one or more businesses. Learn CW is sponsored by CWAM LC Sponsor LLC, an affiliate of Learn Capital, LLC (“Learn Capital”) and Commonwealth Asset Management. Learn Capital is a leading venture capital firm focused on early- and mid-stage investments in the $5.4 trillion global education sector. Learn Capital was founded in 2008 by Rob Hutter and Greg Mauro, who formerly managed an affiliate of Founders Fund. The firm possesses decades of founding, operating, and investing experience in the education, consumer, hard tech, and enterprise technology sectors. Commonwealth Asset Management is a Los Angeles-based asset management platform founded in June 2019 and led by Adam Fisher, who is the former Head of Global Macro and Real Estate at Soros Fund Management LLC and the former founder and Chief Investment Officer of Commonwealth Opportunity Capital, GP LLC.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, including statements regarding the parties or the parties’ respective management team’s expectations, hopes, beliefs, intentions, plans, prospects or strategies regarding the future, including the anticipated benefits of the Business Combination, including revenue growth and financial performance, product expansion and services, and the financial condition, results of operations, earnings outlook and prospects of Innventure and/or Learn CW, including, in all cases, statements for the period following the consummation of the Business Combination. Any statements contained herein that are not statements of historical fact are forward-looking statements. In addition, any statements that refer to projections, forecasts or other characterizations of future events or circumstances, including any underlying assumptions, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are typically identified by words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “continue,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “forecast,” “intend,” “may,” “might,” “outlook,” “plan,” “possible,” “potential,” “predict,” “project,” “should,” “will,” “would” and other similar words and expressions, but the absence of these words does not mean that a statement is not forward-looking. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are based on the current expectations and beliefs of the management of Learn CW and Innventure in light of their respective experience and their perception of historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments and their potential effects on Learn CW and Innventure as well as other factors they believe are appropriate in the circumstances. There can be no assurance that future developments affecting Learn CW or Innventure will be those that we have anticipated. These forward-looking statements involve a number of risks, uncertainties (some of which are beyond the control of the parties) or other assumptions that may cause actual results or performance to be materially different from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements, including those discussed and identified in the public filings made or to be made with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) by Learn CW, including in the final prospectus relating to Learn CW’s initial public offering, which was filed with the SEC on October 12, 2021 under the heading “Risk Factors,” or made or to be made by Learn SPAC Holdco, Inc., including in the registration statement on Form S-4, which was filed in connection with the Business Combination and has been declared effective by the SEC, and the definitive proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus relating to the Business Combination which was mailed to the Learn CW shareholders and sent to the unitholders of Innventure LLC. These risks and uncertainties include: expectations regarding Innventure’s strategies and future financial performance, including its future business plans, expansion and acquisition plans or objectives, prospective performance and opportunities and competitors, revenues, products and services, pricing, operating expenses, product and service acceptance, market trends, liquidity, cash flows and uses of cash, capital expenditures, and Innventure’s ability to invest in growth initiatives; the implementation, market acceptance and success of Innventure’s business model and growth strategy; Innventure’s future capital requirements and sources and uses of cash; that Innventure will have sufficient capital upon the approval of the Business Combination to operate as anticipated; Innventure’s ability to obtain funding for its operations and future growth; developments and projections relating to Innventure’s competitors and industry; the outcome of any legal proceedings that may be instituted against Learn SPAC Holdco, Inc., Learn CW or Innventure following the closing of the Business Combination; the risk that the announcement and consummation of the proposed Business Combination disrupts Innventure’s current plans; the ability to recognize the anticipated benefits of the Business Combination; unexpected costs related to the proposed Business Combination; limited liquidity and trading of Learn CW’s securities; geopolitical risk and changes in applicable laws or regulations; the possibility that Learn CW and/or Innventure may be adversely affected by other economic, business, and/or competitive factors; the potential characterization of Innventure as an investment company subject to the Investment Company Act of 1940; and operational risk. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should any of our assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary in material respects from those projected in these forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements in this press release are made as of the date hereof, based on information available to Learn CW and Innventure as of the date hereof, and Learn CW and Innventure assume no obligation to update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as may be required under applicable law.

Media Contact: Laurie Steinberg, Solebury Strategic Communications
press@innventure.com

Investor Relations Contact: Sloan Bohlen, Solebury Strategic Communications
investorrelations@innventure.com

The MIL Network –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Translation: Interview with Olaf Scholz, Chancellor of the Federal Republic of Germany.

MIL OSI Translation. Government of the Republic of France statements from French to English –

The President of the Republic met with Olaf Scholz, Chancellor of the Federal Republic of Germany, on Wednesday 2 October 2024, during his trip to Germany to participate in the Berlin Global Dialogue. The two leaders prepared the main issues of the next European Council on 17 and 18 October:

– European competitiveness, based on the findings made by Mr Mario Draghi in his recent report and in line with the joint Franco-German contribution adopted in Meseberg last May;

– effective protection of the EU’s external borders, in particular through the implementation of the European Pact on Asylum and Migration and the strengthening of cooperation with third countries to improve returns and readmissions;

– continued European Union support for Ukraine in the face of Russian military aggression, for as long and as intensely as necessary, as Russian strikes on civilian infrastructure intensify and winter approaches;

– the call for military de-escalation in the Middle East, condemning in the strongest terms Iran’s strikes against Israel on 1 October, and asking all parties to exercise the greatest restraint to avoid a regional conflagration. The President of the Republic and the German Chancellor agreed to remain in close contact to work towards peace and security for all in the Middle East.

EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.

MIL Translation OSI

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Translation: Proposal for the renewal of Philippe Mauguin as Chairman and CEO of INRAE.

MIL OSI Translation. Government of the Republic of France statements from French to English –

The President of the Republic is considering, on the proposal of the Prime Minister, renewing Philippe Mauguin as Chairman and CEO of INRAE.

The President of the National Assembly and the President of the Senate are notified of this draft appointment, so that the relevant committee of each of the assemblies can decide under the conditions provided for in the fifth paragraph of Article 13 of the Constitution.

EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.

MIL Translation OSI

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Translation: National Defense and Security Council on the situation in Lebanon and recent developments in the Middle East crisis.

MIL OSI Translation. Government of the Republic of France statements from French to English –

The Head of State chaired a National Defense and Security Council on the situation in Lebanon and recent developments in the Middle East crisis, on Tuesday, October 1, 2024, at the Elysée Palace, in the presence of the Prime Minister, the Minister of the Interior, the Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs and the Minister of the Armed Forces.

Faced with the dangerous escalation of tensions in the Middle East, the President of the Republic reaffirmed France’s commitment to peace and security for all in the region. In this regard, he condemned in the strongest possible terms Iran’s new attacks against Israel. Committed to Israel’s security, France today mobilized its military resources in the Middle East to counter the Iranian threat. The Head of State also reiterated France’s demand that Hezbollah cease its terrorist actions against Israel and its population.

The President of the Republic also expressed France’s willingness to act for Lebanon. He called for Israel to end its military operations as soon as possible. He considered that too many civilians are already victims. He hoped that Lebanon’s sovereignty and territorial integrity would be restored in strict compliance with United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701. In this regard, he reaffirmed France’s commitment to UNIFIL. He noted that it is also up to the Lebanese to come together at this critical moment. France will stand alongside all those who act in this direction and will very soon organize a conference in support of the Lebanese people and their institutions.

The President of the Republic reiterated his determination to obtain a long-term settlement that ensures the security of the populations on both sides of the Blue Line. The displaced must be able to return home in complete safety, in Israel as well as in Lebanon. The United Nations Security Council must be notified and be able to express its views on the current situation.

The President of the Republic has instructed the Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs to travel to the Middle East again. There he will consult with all those who have a role to play in initiating de-escalation and finding lasting solutions to the current crisis in all its aspects, particularly the situation in Lebanon and Gaza.

Attentive to the security and protection of our compatriots in Lebanon and the Middle East, the Head of State requested that all necessary measures be taken to assist them and, if necessary, help them. He also requested that the greatest vigilance be observed and that adequate measures be taken to prevent the possible repercussions of these latest developments in the Middle East on the national territory and ensure the security of everyone.

The President of the Republic concluded that it was necessary for all actors involved in the crisis in the Middle East to exercise the greatest restraint.

EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.

MIL Translation OSI

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Translation: Minutes of the Council of Ministers of October 1, 2024.

MIL OSI Translation. Government of the Republic of France statements from French to English –

BILL

MODERNIZATION OF THE ALTERNATIVE INVESTMENT FUNDS REGIME

The Minister of Economy, Finance and Industry presented a bill ratifying Ordinance No. 2024-662 of July 3, 2024, modernizing the alternative investment fund regime.

This order was adopted on the basis of Article 40 of Law No. 2023-973 of October 23, 2023 relating to the green industry.

It introduces numerous measures to modernise and simplify the alternative investment fund (AIF) regime in order to make our asset management law more attractive and competitive, to take maximum advantage of the entry into force of Regulation (EU) 2023/606 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 15 March 2023, known as “ELTIF 2.0” on 10 January 2024 and thus increase long-term financing of the European economy, necessary in particular to finance the transition to carbon neutrality.

In this respect, the order modifies several provisions of the Monetary and Financial Code:

– it modernises the regime of so-called “professional” FIAs, in particular by simplifying the rules for the composition of this type of FIA and creating a new corporate form without legal personality for specialised professional funds;

– it adapts the rules applicable to so-called “non-professional” FIAs, in order to ensure their complementarity with ELTIF 2.0 funds;

– it allows corporate mutual funds (FCPE) to invest in ELTIF 2.0 funds.

DECREE

REQUIREMENTS FOR THE NEEDS OF DEFENSE AND NATIONAL SECURITY AND THEIR ARTICULATION WITH THE DIFFERENT LEGAL REGIMES RELATING TO CRISIS PREPARATION AND MANAGEMENT

The Minister of the Armed Forces and Veterans presented a draft decree relating to requisitions for the needs of defence and national security and their articulation with the various legal regimes relating to the preparation and management of crises.

This decree is issued for the application of Article 47 of Law No. 2023-703 of August 1, 2023 relating to military programming (LPM) for the years 2024 to 2030 and containing various provisions relating to defense. This article carried out a complete renovation of the requisition system under the Defense Code, which appeared obsolete, complex to implement and based on criteria whose scope was uncertain.

Article 47 of the LPM now distinguishes:

– on the one hand, requisitions aimed at dealing with threats to the life of the Nation, decided by presidential decree deliberated in the Council of Ministers to respond to situations whose territorial scope exceeds that which the prefectural authorities can deal with on the basis of the general code of local authorities in the event of a threat to public order (article L. 2212 1, defense code);

– on the other hand, requisitions aimed at dealing with emergency situations involving the safeguarding of national defence interests, decided by decree of the Prime Minister, in the absence of any other means available in good time, to enable the State to conduct the operations necessary for its defence (article L. 2212-2, defence code).

This decree is intended to define the procedural arrangements for implementing this new requisition regime and the prior constraints which constitute its corollary, by considerably simplifying the legal framework previously applicable, which did not allow the public authorities to mobilise it effectively to respond to crisis circumstances.

The dedicated book of the defense code is thus reduced from 182 to 30 articles, while clarifying the procedure for ordering the census of people, goods and services likely to be subject to a requisition measure as well as the conditions under which they can be subject to tests and exercises, thus contributing to the construction of a global policy of resilience of the Nation in the face of the risks and threats it faces.

To meet this same purpose, this decree also proceeds, in a continuum logic, to the articulation between, on the one hand, the requisition measures and the prior constraints which constitute their corollary and, on the other hand, the different legal regimes relating to the preparation and management of crises linked to national defence, in connection with the prerogatives devolved to the public authorities by the defence code in matters of military defence and civil defence.

Finally, taking into account the specific issues raised by the potential use of the requisition system, the decree defines a legal framework adapted to the specificities of all overseas communities, in particular to take into account their geographical isolation and their distance from mainland France.

INDIVIDUAL MEASURES

The Council of Ministers adopted the following individual measures:

On the proposal of the Keeper of the Seals, Minister of Justice:

– Ms Christine MAUGÜÉ, State Councilor, is appointed President of the Administration Section of the Council of State, effective October 8, 2024.

On the proposal of the Minister of the Interior:

– Mr. Laurent BUCHAILLAT, State administrator, is appointed prefect of Tarn;

– the functions of prefect of the Bourgogne-Franche-Comté region and prefect of the Côte d’Or exercised by Mr. Franck ROBINE are terminated, as of September 21, 2024;

– the functions of prefect of the Brittany region, prefect of the West defense and security zone, prefect of Ille-et-Vilaine exercised by Mr. Philippe GUSTIN are terminated;

– the functions of delegated prefect for defense and security with the prefect of the Hauts-de-France region, prefect of the North defense and security zone, prefect of the North exercised by Mr. Louis-Xavier THIRODE are terminated, as of September 26, 2024;

– the functions of delegated prefect for equal opportunities with the prefect of the Hauts-de-France region, prefect of the North defense and security zone, prefect of the North exercised by Ms Virginie LASSERRE are terminated;

– the functions of Prefect of Nièvre exercised by Mr. Michaël GALY are terminated;

– the functions of Prefect of Aube exercised by Ms. Cécile DINDAR are terminated.

On the proposal of the Minister of National Education and the Minister of Higher Education and Research:

– the functions of rector of the Limoges academy exercised by Ms Carole DRUCKER-GODARD are terminated.

On the proposal of the Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs:

– the functions of Director General of Globalization, Culture, Education and International Development exercised by Mr. Aurélien LECHEVALLIER are terminated, effective September 22, 2024.

On the proposal of the Minister of the Armed Forces and Veterans:

– various individual measures were adopted concerning general officers of the army, the navy, the air and space force, the general directorate of armaments and the army commissariat service;

– the functions of Director General of Digital and Information and Communication Systems exercised by Mr. Vincent TEJEDOR are terminated.

On the proposal of the Minister of National Education and the Minister of Labor and Employment:

– the functions of High Commissioner for Vocational Education and Training exercised by Mr. Geoffroy de VITRY are terminated.

EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.

MIL Translation OSI

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Translation: Federal government and Boyle Street Community Services invest in vital community building in downtown Edmonton

MIL OSI Translation. Canadian French to English –

Source: Government of Canada – MIL OSI Regional News in French

Press release

Edmonton’s downtown core will have a renovated facility to deliver a vital range of programs and services thanks to a joint investment of more than $45 million from the federal government and Boyle Street Community Services.

Edmonton, Alberta, May 3, 2024 — Edmonton’s downtown core will have a renovated facility to deliver a vital range of programs and services thanks to a joint investment of more than $45 million from the federal government and Boyle Street Community Services.

Announced by Minister Randy Boissonnault and Jordan Reiniger, Executive Director, Boyle Street Community Services, this new building will be better suited to provide health and support services to people experiencing homelessness and poverty in Edmonton’s growing downtown core.

The new Okimaw Peyesew Kamik (King Thunderbird Centre) will be an accessible, energy-efficient building that will replace the former community centre. It will provide essential health and housing services, while supporting Edmonton’s vulnerable community, all under one roof. Located two blocks north of the former location, the centre will feature a private outdoor space for ceremony and land-based healing, as well as 75,000 square feet of indoor space, including a triage area for those waiting for health supports and services. Improvements to this innovative, solution-focused space include improved accessibility to services on the ground floor and the integration of important aspects of Indigenous culture and ceremony throughout the building. The renovated building, which will be carbon neutral, will serve as the headquarters for Boyle Street Community Services.

For over 50 years, Boyle Street Community Services has been working to help people experiencing homelessness and poverty. The new facility will allow Boyle Street Community Services to continue its long-standing work in the community, providing vital programs such as basic needs support, health services, addictions assistance, identification and financial services, cultural healing and essential services.

Quotes

“Through this significant investment in the new Okimaw Peyesew Kamik (King Thunderbird Centre) in Edmonton, the federal government is helping to improve Edmonton’s downtown core. By ensuring Boyle Street Community Services continues to operate in a centralized location that provides a safe and reliable space for the community, we will make our downtown core a safer and more vibrant place to work and live. This world-class facility, which is being built to better meet the unique needs of a vulnerable population, will provide dignified support to those who need it most in our city.”

The Honourable Randy Boissonnault, Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Official Languages, on behalf of the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities

“Today’s transformative $21 million contribution to Okimaw Peyesew Kamik (King Thunderbird Centre) through the BCVI grant from the Government of Canada is ensuring that the people our organization serves receive the health and community services they need in a welcoming, accessible and beautiful building. It is also enabling us to build a carbon neutral and climate resilient building that will enable our organization to sustainably support our community for decades to come. The success of this project is yet another testament to the care and compassion that exists in Edmonton and Canada. It reminds us of what can be accomplished when we come together and put the dignity of our most vulnerable neighbours at the heart of our efforts.” On behalf of everyone who works at Boyle Street, I want to thank Ministers Boissonnault and Fraser, and their teams, for their dedication and commitment to our organization, and for their role in making okimaw peyesew kamik a reality.”

Jordan Reiniger, Executive Director, Boyle Street Community Services

Quick Facts

The federal government is investing $21,000,000 in this project through the Green and Inclusive Community Buildings (GICB) Program, and Boyle Street Service Society is investing $24,023,383.

These improvements are expected to result in annual fuel savings of approximately 99% for the facility and a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions of 709 tonnes.

The Green and Inclusive Community Buildings (GICB) program was created to support Canada’s Strengthened Climate Plan: A Healthy Environment and a Healthy Economy. It supports the first pillar of the Plan by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and increasing energy efficiency, and by helping to build resilience to climate change.

The program provides $1.5 billion over five years for modernization, repair or improvement work that promotes the environment and accessibility.

At least 10 percent of the funds are allocated to projects for First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities, which includes Indigenous populations in urban centres.

The application period for the Green and Inclusive Community Buildings program is now closed.

On December 18, 2023, the federal government launched the Prairie Green Economy Framework, which highlights the need for a collaborative, regional approach to sustainability, focused on strengthening the coordination of federal programs and initiatives with significant investments. The Framework is the first step in a journey that will bring together many stakeholders. PrairiesCan, the federal department working to diversify Canada’s Prairie economy, has committed $100 million over three years to support projects aligned with priority areas identified by Prairie stakeholders to create a stronger, more sustainable and inclusive economy for the Prairie provinces and Canada.

Infrastructure Canada supports the Prairie Green Economy Framework to encourage greater collaboration on investment opportunities, leverage additional funding and attract new investment to the Prairies to better meet needs.

Related links

Contact persons

For further information (media only), please contact:

Mathis DenisPress OfficerOffice of the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Official Languages343-573-1846mathis.denis@hrsdc-rhdcc.gc.ca

Media RelationsInfrastructure Canada613-960-9251Toll Free: 1-877-250-7154Email: media-medias@infc.gc.caFollow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram And LinkedInWebsite: Infrastructure Canada

Elliott TantiDirector, Communications and EngagementBoyle Street Community Services587-338-4025etanti@boylestreet.org

EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.

MIL Translation OSI

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Alachua County Disaster Recovery Center Reopens

Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

Headline: Alachua County Disaster Recovery Center Reopens

Alachua County Disaster Recovery Center Reopens

TALLAHASSEE, Fla.– The Disaster Recovery Center in Alachua County has reopened to help people affected by Hurricane Debby.

Center location:

Alachua County
Millhopper Branch Library
3145 NW 43^rd St.
Gainesville, FL 32606
Open 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday

For other Disaster Recovery Center locations, go online to fema.gov/drc.

For the latest information about Florida’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4806. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.

kirsten.chambers
Wed, 10/02/2024 – 19:50

MIL OSI USA News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Disaster Recovery Centers Open in Pinellas and Taylor Counties

Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

Headline: Disaster Recovery Centers Open in Pinellas and Taylor Counties

Disaster Recovery Centers Open in Pinellas and Taylor Counties

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Disaster Recovery Centers are operating in Pinellas and Taylor counties to provide one-on-one help to Floridians affected by Hurricane Debby and Hurricane Helene.

Center locations:

Pinellas County

Largo Public Library
120 Central Park Drive
Largo, FL 33771
Open 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday-Wednesday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Thursday-Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday

Taylor County

Loughridge Park
1100 W. Hampton Springs Ave.
Perry, FL 32347
Open 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday-Friday

Florida Division of Emergency Management and FEMA are urgently reopening centers that were in place for Debby prior to Helene and these centers can serve people affected by both storms. New locations are being assessed to meet the needs in areas heavily impacted by Helene.

To find other center locations go to fema.gov/drc or text “DRC” and a Zip Code to 43362. All centers are accessible to people with disabilities or access and functional needs and are equipped with assistive technology.

Floridians can apply for either storm online at DisasterAssistance.gov. They can also apply using the FEMA mobile app or by calling FEMA’s helpline toll-free at 800-621-3362. Lines are open every day and help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as Video Relay Service (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service. To view an accessible video on how to apply visit Three Ways to Apply for FEMA Disaster Assistance – YouTube.

If you applied to FEMA after Hurricane Debby and have additional damage from Hurricane Helene, you will need to apply separately for Helene and provide the dates of your most recent damage.

For the latest information about Florida’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4828. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.

kirsten.chambers
Wed, 10/02/2024 – 20:08

MIL OSI USA News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: SPEECH BY MDM RAHAYU MAHZAM, MINISTER OF STATE, MINISTRY OF HEALTH, AT THE COMMUNITY CARE MANPOWER DEVELOPMENT AND COMMUNITY CARE EXCELLENCE AWARDS CEREMONY, 2 OCTOBER 2024

Source: Asia Pacific Region 2 – Singapore

Dr Gerard Ee, Chairman, Agency for Integrated Care (AIC)

Mr Dinesh Vasu Dash, Chief Executive Officer, AIC

Distinguished guests, award recipients

Ladies and gentlemen

1. A very good morning. I am delighted to be here at the Community Care Manpower Development Awards (CCMDA) and Community Care Excellence Awards (CCEA), as we recognise and celebrate the accomplishments of our dedicated and inspiring staff. I am pleased to be among passionate individuals who are dedicated to improving the wellbeing of our community and advancing the community care sector.

Community Care Manpower Development Awards

2. The CCMDA is a study award first introduced in 2017 and provides important training support and opportunities for both new and in-service staff in the community care sector. Since its inception, CCMDA has supported the professional development of over 980 individuals, with 118 receiving the award this year.

3. Growing our workforce is essential to meet the growing needs of our community. For instance, as palliative care services expand in the coming years, there will be growing demand for community care staff to acquire the relevant skills and knowledge to support the needs of this group.

4. Acquiring new skills is never easy, especially if we may already have many things on our plate, such as taking care of our families, and managing our careers. Ms Liu Maoxiang, from Singapore Anglican Community Services (SACS), has inspired us with her journey to grow professionally. With the support of her SACS colleagues and the CCMDA, she embraced the opportunity to further develop her professional skills as a social worker focusing on palliative and community care. Her journey saw her taking up a Professional Certificate in Palliative Care for Social Workers in 2024. She subsequently completed her training and continued on her journey as a social worker with SACS specialising in palliative and community care. Her dedication to lifelong learning and passion for serving others exemplify the values that we see in our awardees today. We wish her a long and fulfilling career.

Community Care Nursing Leadership Programme

5. Alongside individual growth, it is crucial to cultivate nursing talents for leadership roles, to ensure a robust pipeline of nursing leaders for the future. The Community Care Nursing Leadership Programme (CCNLP) aims to achieve this by preparing nurses to take on leadership roles. Nominated nursing talents will undergo a three- or five-year developmental programme that includes leadership coaching, clinical training both at home and abroad, and more.

6. Since its launch in 2021, CCNLP has supported 25 nursing leaders from various settings, such as nursing homes, community hospitals, palliative care, and centre-based care. Today, we proudly celebrate the graduation of six nurses who completed the programme this year.

Community Care Excellence Awards

7. As we continue to nurture the skills and leadership capabilities of our staff, it’s also essential to recognise that these efforts ultimately serve a greater purpose to improve the quality of service that we provide. The CCEA celebrates the dedication of individuals and teams who have shown outstanding service and commitment to delivering quality care to their seniors. Since the CCEA was introduced in 2014, nearly 2,000 individuals and teams have received the award. This year, we are honouring 229 recipients, including 209 individual awards.

8. One such individual is Ms Ng Ling Ling, an executive from Ren Ci Community Hospital who took the initiative to streamline manual data work by picking up Robotic Process Automation. By automating repetitive tasks needed for financial counselling forms, she not only improved the quality of financial counselling at Ren Ci Community Hospital but, more importantly, freed up her team’s bandwidth to offer more meaningful interactions with patients and their families.

9. The CCEA also acknowledges team achievements in areas such as clinical quality, client experience, and improvements in productivity and digitalisation. This year, Lentor Health Nursing Home at Macpherson embarked on the Chef Partnership Programme, where it worked with professional chefs to optimise kitchen workflows, train staff in modern cooking techniques, and of course, develop tasty and nutritious meal plans for their residents. From this programme, Lentor Health achieved a 47% improvement in resident satisfaction. This is testament to the sector’s dedication to innovate and improve the everyday experiences of our seniors.

10. As part of our ongoing effort to recognise the exceptional contributions of healthcare leaders in preventive health and community care, I am pleased to announce the introduction of a new Platinum Leadership Award category for next year’s CCEA. This prestigious award will honour Community Care Leaders who have made outstanding contributions to advance and enhance community care. It celebrates those who exemplify remarkable leadership, driving excellence and pioneering practices that strengthen the sector and ensure that all Singaporeans have the support they need to live and age well within their communities.

Strengthening Manpower Capabilities

11. As we recognise our healthcare workers’ efforts to upskill and bring greater impact to their roles, the Ministry of Health (MOH) and AIC are committed to supporting these aspirations by creating clear career progression pathways that align with the evolving needs of the community. I am pleased to share that the Community Care Career Track for support care staff, initially piloted in 2021, is now ready for adoption across the sector. The new track provides new opportunities for support care staff progression, by broadening their roles and enabling cross-deployment across various care settings.

12. Ms Kelly Kait from Ren Ci Nursing Home exemplifies this progression. After completing her training, she was promoted from Community Care Associate to Senior Community Care Associate, where her role was expanded to include responsibilities such as assisting with mobility training. Over time, with greater experience gained, she will be able to advance further along the Care Track at Ren Ci.

13. To prepare our support care staff for these new roles, AIC, in partnership with MOH, SkillsFuture Singapore, and industry stakeholders, have accredited the training and development of Community Care Associates as part of the national Skills Framework for Healthcare. I am pleased to share that the first group of 12 staff have started this training back in July. Upon completion, they will be awarded the WSQ Higher Certificate in Healthcare for Community Care. With this certification, and continuous training, this group can move on to assume roles where they will work closely together with clinicians and therapists to provide holistic care to support the physical and clinical wellbeing of clients.

14. We look forward to having all community care organisations and support care staff join us in this transformative journey as we roll out the Community Care Track across care settings. This will contribute to our collective effort to provide even better care and support for our communities.

15. In closing, I would like to wish all awardees continued success in your learning journeys. I commend you for your dedication and exceptional contributions to the community care sector. Your efforts continue to make a significant impact, and I am certain you will continue to inspire and lead.

16. Congratulations to all our awardees and thank you for your commitment to advance community care.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Necropsy confirms sea lion killed with shotgun

Source: Department of Conservation

Date: 03 October 2024

Losing the juvenile female, who was born about 60 km up the Clutha River Mata-au earlier this year, is a significant setback for the local population.

DOC Murihiku Operations Manager John McCarroll says the necropsy, carried out by Massey University scientists, found the young female sea lion likely died several hours after she was shot.

“These necropsy results tell us the sea lion was alive when she was shot. She was last seen alive on Monday 16 September and was reported dead to us on the morning of Sunday 22 September.

X-ray of the sea lion showing shotgun pellets
Image: Massey University

“DOC wants to find out who has committed this atrocious act and we’re calling for anyone with information to get in touch on 0800 DOC HOT (0800 362 468).

“The New Zealand Sea Lion Trust is also offering a $5,000 reward for information that leads to a successful prosecution.”

Although DOC staff are relieved to learn the sea lion did not suffer for more than a week, as initially feared, they are appalled at the extent of the painful injuries inflicted on her by the shooter, John McCarroll says.

“She appears to have been shot in the back while lying on her stomach, causing a large amount of bleeding in the abdomen and chest and damage to the lungs, liver, spleen, intestine and spine. At least 25 steel shotgun pellets were found in her body.

“Shooting a protected sea lion and leaving it to a painful death is a disgusting act and completely unacceptable.

“The loss of this juvenile female is a significant setback to the Catlins sea lion population. Sea lions restarted breeding in the Catlins back in 2006, and so far 45 have been born there, although a number of those have passed away.

“In the 2023/24 breeding season there were 13 breeding age females and 7 pups born. It takes 4 years for a female to reach breeding age. Given the low numbers, every female is extremely important to the population.”

Under the Wildlife Act, it is illegal to injure or kill protected native wildlife like sea lions and anyone who does so can face punishments of up to two years imprisonment and/or a fine of up to $250,000.

The sea lion’s mother Jade was born under a crib (bach) at Kākā Point in 2016. She was named after the late son of the bach owners.

Pakake have a threat status of “Nationally Vulnerable” and number about 12,000. About 96% of the population is found in the Subantarctic Islands and is in decline. On the Mainland, there are small but growing populations in Rakiura/Stewart Island, Murihiku/Southland, and Otago.

Contact

For media enquiries contact:

Email: media@doc.govt.nz

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Pressley, Advocates Unveil State-by-State Data Quantifying Harm of Project 2025 on Public Service Workers
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07)

By Eliminating Public Service Loan Forgiveness, Project 2025 Would Force 3.6M Workers to Pay $250B in Additional Student Debt

In Massachusetts, Eliminating PSLF Would Harm Over 78,000 Workers and Rob Them of Over $5 Billion in Debt Relief Under PSLF

Press Conference | Analysis

BOSTON – Today, Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), co-founder of the Stop Project 2025 Task Force, joined the Student Borrower Protection Center (SBPC) and President of the American Federation of Teachers Randi Weingarten for a virtual press conference unveiling a groundbreaking state-by-state analysis quantifying the harm that Project 2025’s elimination of the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF) would wreak on millions of teachers, healthcare workers, servicemembers, first responders, and other public service workers. Over the last three years alone, the Biden-Harris Administration has approved more than $69 billion in debt relief to nearly 1 million public service workers under PSLF.

Project 2025 proposes to eliminate all time- and employment-based student debt relief and specifically calls for the elimination of PSLF and any debt discharge under Income Driven Repayment. According to SBPC’s analysis, Project 2025’s proposal to eliminate PSLF would force 3.6 million public service workers—educators, nurses and other healthcare workers, servicemembers, first responders and others—to pay an additional $250 billion in student loan debt over the next decade. In Massachusetts, eliminating PSLF would harm more than 78,000 public service workers and rob them of more than $5 billion in debt relief under PSLF.

“Project 2025 would have a devastating impact on people from all walks of life, including public service workers burdened by the crushing weight of student debt,” said Rep. Pressley. “Project 2025’s plan to eliminate the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program is cruel, anti-worker, and would deny essential relief to millions of people who have given back so much to our communities, our Commonwealth, and our country. As co-founder of the Stop Project 2025 Task Force, I won’t stop pressing to make sure this far-right manifesto does not manifest, and I’ll keep pushing to ensure our borrowers get the student debt relief they demand and deserve.”

“As our country once again calls on first responders and healthcare workers to confront unprecedented natural disasters in communities across the southeastern United States, the right-wing architects of Project 2025 conspire to strip away their student debt relief,” said SBPC executive director Mike Pierce. “The Biden-Harris administration delivered debt relief for nearly one million public service workers—fragile progress that Project 2025 is determined to erase. We won’t let them drag us back.”

“Let’s be clear, Project 2025 will be the next chapter of Donald Trump’s relentless attacks on public service workers with student debt. It was not long ago that the AFT was fighting Betsy DeVos and Donald Trump in court for illegally denying educators and other public service workers of PSLF debt relief that they earned,” said Randi Weingarten, President of AFT. “Now, with Project 2025, they want to eliminate the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program outright which will leave more than 3.6 million public service workers drowning in student loan debt. Under the Biden-Harris Administration, nearly 1 million public service workers have benefitted from life-changing PSLF relief and they are not finished yet. We will not go back and we will not stop shedding light on the dangers of Project 2025.”

“Like so many workers, I took on student loans to advance my education, believing it would open doors. Like millions of educators, healthcare workers, and first responders, I relied on PSLF to ease the burden of student debt after years of public service. When you’re in student loan debt, you have to make choices. Can I buy a home? Can I choose to buy a new car? Can I enjoy small parts of my life like visiting my family or taking a girl’s weekend with my friends? The Biden-Harris administration’s recent changes to PSLF have already helped nearly a million workers, including me, to get out from under crushing debt. Loan forgiveness has changed my life!” said Catherine Hutchinson, President, California State University Employees Union, SEIU Local 2579. “If PSLF is eliminated, millions of public service workers, like myself, will be pushed further into debt. This is why we must fight to protect PSLF. Working people everywhere, from a fast-food worker in South Carolina to a nurse in Oregon should be able to thrive regardless of their education. For many of us, student loans were supposed to be a path forward, not something that holds us back. We need leaders that prioritize policies that put working people first.”

SBPC’s analysis provides a nationwide snapshot of how eliminating PSLF will harm public service workers across each state. The ten hardest-hit states—those that would be home to the most public service workers trapped in debt—include Pennsylvania, Georgia, and Michigan. See the analysis in the form of an interactive map here.

Pressley and Weingarten were joined by union members who would pay the price should this extremist playbook come to pass. A full transcript of Congresswoman Pressley’s remarks is available below and footage is available here.

Transcript: Pressley, Advocates Unveil State-by-State Data Quantifying Harm of Project 2025 on Public Service Workers
October 2, 2024
Boston, Massachusetts

Good afternoon and thank you all for joining us today.

As I so often say about Randi, I would follow her anywhere and certainly into any battle or any fight, grateful for her leadership and strength of conviction.

It’s an honor to stand alongside all of you, our dedicated public servants, the Student Borrower Protection Center, AFT, borrowers and advocates to further highlight the devastating impact Project 2025 would have for millions of public servants and their families.

I think it’s important always to make that point, when we talk about borrowers, when we talk about educators, people often think that they’re sort of independent contractors. Borrowers, educators belong to families and those families are a part of communities, and so there is a residual impact felt by everyone.

I am proud to be an original co-founder of the House Stop Project 2025 Task Force, alongside Congressman Jared Huffman, and we are being very intentional about leveraging every tool at our disposal – from the power of our pen as lawmakers, to the power of our platform, to the power of convening through committee – to shine a light, because sunlight is the best disinfectant, on every aspect of Project 2025 and to give the public as clear a picture as possible of just how harmful Project 2025 is.

Project 2025, yes it is a blueprint for a far-right wing manifesto that we have to do everything possible to make sure it does not become manifest. But it is in simpler terms, it’s a playbook.

I have learned in my six years in Congress that these extremist Republicans do not make threats, they make promises.

So Project 2025 is a playbook, it is a playbook that means harm to every person that calls this country home.

It is wholesale policy violence.

But today, again, thanks to our partners at SBPC, we now have damning new data that shows how harmful it would be for public service workers.

So it gives us that sort of disaggregated data to tell in even more detail a picture about the harm that would be caused, very precisely, to public service workers.

To put it bluntly, Project 2025’s proposal to eliminate Public Service Loan Forgiveness is cruel, it’s anti-worker, and it would deny this life-saving relief to millions of people who have given so much to our country.

And it is not just an attack on a federal program – it is an attack on the lives and livelihoods of those who strengthen our communities and build up our nation.

Public Service Loan Forgiveness was designed to provide relief to those who dedicate their lives to public service—our educators, our nurses, our healthcare workers, servicemembers, first responders, and more.

Our public service workers make many sacrifices to stay in their field, answering what I think is a higher and a deep calling.

And Project 2025 seeks to gut this program that is essential to retaining dedicated people.

Now if enacted, this plan, this playbook, would strip away a critical pathway to student debt relief from approximately 3.6 million public service workers and saddle them with over 250 billion dollars in additional student loan debt.

That’s 250 billion dollars in debt on the backs of those who have already sacrificed so much for so many.

In my home state, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, roughly 78 thousand public service workers would lose out on more than 5 billion dollars in debt relief.

These are the people who show up, day in and day out, who certainly did that ten-fold during the pandemic, whether it’s the educator in the classroom teaching our babies, the nurse caring for us at our bedside, or the first responder running towards danger.

These workers are the backbones of our communities, and they deserve a government that sees them, that centers them, that invests in them. But Project 2025 is telling them that their contributions don’t matter.

It is as heartless as it is wrong. And again, as I’ve learned with these extremists Republicans, the cruelty is the point. It seems to be the only point.

You know, there are so many stories and lived experiences that I carry with me in this fight, in this work, specific to student debt and the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program.

And I’m thinking specifically, in this moment, of Priscilla Valentine – a first generation American, a proud union educator with Boston Public Schools and the Boston Teachers Union, and my guest, it was my honor, my guest at President Biden’s State of the Union Address this year.

Now, Priscilla, she took out loans to pursue her goal of becoming a teacher. But like so many borrowers, she was saddled with debt that impacted her credit score and her life for years, and that of her family.

As a last hope, Priscilla applied for PSLF, and ultimately had her entire student loan balance of over $117,000 wiped out.

In her words, PSLF, “opened up my family’s world to a life that I could have only dreamed of a year ago. I am now able to save for my children to be able to go to college, and I’m building good credit so my husband and I can refinance our mortgage.”

PSLF has given people like Priscilla a pathway to financial stability and allowed them to continue serving our communities.

When we talk about economic justice, when we talk about economic freedom, it’s a peace of mind that you and yours are going to be okay.

And since the Biden-Harris Administration fixed the program in 2021, we’ve seen over $69 billion in student debt cancelled for nearly 1 million public service workers nationwide.

This is how government is supposed to work. We’re supposed to be responsive to the struggles and the aspirations of everyone who calls this country home.

But perhaps most importantly, in addition to this critical relief, the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program has given borrowers hope.

Under Project 2025, Priscilla and millions of others would be denied that hope, would be denied that relief.

So stopping Project 2025 is as much about protecting our fundamental freedoms and our democracy as it is about advancing workers’ justice and economic justice, and gender justice, and racial justice.

So thank you again to everyone for joining us today and thank you to our partners for this important work.

Together, we are going to do everything in our power to ensure that this far-right-wing manifesto does not become manifest.

And we are going to keep pushing to ensure that every last borrower receives the student debt relief that they demand and that they deserve.

Rep. Pressley has been a leading voice in Congress urging President Biden to cancel student debt. Following years of advocacy by Rep. Pressley—in partnership with colleagues, borrowers, and advocates—the Biden-Harris Administration announced a historic plan to cancel student debt that stands to benefit over 40 million people. She has consistently helped borrowers access student debt cancellation resources, including PSLF, and she was proud to welcome a union educator and PSLF recipient as her guest to President Biden’s State of the Union Address in March.

Rep. Pressley is a founding member of a Congressional Task Force designed to stop Project 2025, a thousand-page blueprint for Donald Trump to seize “supreme” powers and radically undermine reproductive rights, LGBTQIA+ equality, racial justice, free speech, and other democratic institutions and freedoms. The Task Force was announced by Rep. Huffman in June and its members are leaders on many of the issues currently under attack by Project 2025.

As a member of the House Oversight Committee, Rep. Pressley has repeatedly sounded the alarm on Project 2025, a bucket list extremist policies that would uproot every government agency and disrupt the lives of every person who calls America home.
- On September 24, 2024, Rep. Pressley joined House Democratic Leadership and her colleagues on the Steering and Policy Committee to hold a historic hearing on Trump’s Project 2025 and its devastating impact on families across America.
- On September 19, 2024, Rep. Pressley and Rep. Huffman launched a confidential tip line and encouraging members of the public to come forward with any information about the hidden “Fourth Pillar” of Project 2025.
- On August 6, 2024, Rep. Pressley and Rep. Huffman wrote to Kevin Roberts, President of the Heritage Foundation, requesting that he come before Congress to discuss Project 2025 and release its undisclosed “180-Day Playbook.”
- On July 30, 2024, Rep. Pressley issued a statement on reports that Paul Dans is stepping down from his role as the head of Project 2025.
- On June 27, 2024, Rep. Pressley discussed the importance of the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), which combats discrimination in the workplace, and sharply criticized the harmful impact that far-right manifesto Project 2025 would have on the Department of Labor, the EEOC, and vulnerable workers.
- On June 17, 2024, Rep. Pressley joined Rep. Jared Huffman on a letter decrying the FCC Commissioner Brendan Carr for crafting part of Project 2025 in his official capacity as an executive-level employee of the federal government.
- On June 14, Rep. Pressley was announced as a founding member of a Congressional Task Force designed to stop Project 2025 which was founded by Rep. Jared Huffman (CA-02).
- On June 12, 2024, Rep. Pressley outlined the damning link between Project 2025 and the Supreme Court’s corruption.
- In a May 2024 committee hearing, Rep. Pressley highlighted the harm of Project 2025’s plans to replace tens of thousands of civil servants with partisan sycophants and destroy government infrastructure.
###

MIL OSI USA News –
January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Canada: The Honourable Kamal Khera, Minister of Diversity, Inclusion and Persons with Disabilities, the Honourable Dominic LeBlanc, Minister of Public Safety, Democratic Institutions and Intergovernmental Affairs and the Honourable Arif Virani, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, issue a statement on Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year

Source: Government of Canada News

The Government of Canada issues a statement to mark Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year and start of the High Holy Days

OTTAWA, October 2, 2023

Shana tova to all Jewish communities in Canada and around the world!

Tonight’s sunset marks the start of Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, which also signals the beginning of the High Holy Days, lasting 10 days.

During Rosh Hashanah, apples dipped in honey symbolize the hope for a sweet and harmonious New Year. The call of the shofar, an instrument made from a ram’s horn, will be heard, calling for introspection.

Although this sacred time embodies both optimism and reflection, it is a difficult period for the Canadian Jewish community and Jewish people around the world. On October 7, we will mark the first anniversary of the deadliest attack on Jews, during which Canadians were killed, since the Holocaust. We are also all deeply alarmed by the rise of antisemitism in our country and law enforcement takes all threats seriously. There is no excuse for this hatred and there is no place for it in Canada. Everyone has the right to feel safe, regardless of who we are, what we look like or what we believe.

Jewish communities are not alone. Our federal government is committed to doing whatever it takes to protect everyone living in Canada and to uphold the values of the country we believe in, where diversity and inclusion are our strengths. During Rosh Hashanah, we recognize the heightened security concerns of the Jewish community as they attend synagogues and temples across the country. We are committed to safeguarding their right to worship safely and peacefully. Recently, we launched Canada’s first-ever Action Plan on Combatting Hate to empower communities with the resources they need to identify and prevent hate, increase supports to victims and survivors, and ensure we have a coordinated approach across government to protect Canadians. A key component of the Action Plan is the Canada Community Security Program, which provides time-limited funding and support, for communities at risk of hate-motived incidents, to take safety measures to protect their communities. We know that the Jewish community has been targeted by vile hatred online and in the real world. Bill C-63 proposes tougher hate laws and creates a regime to make social media companies more responsible for hate and other harmful content on their platforms.

Jewish people have helped shape the Canada we know and they continue to make our communities more vibrant every day. May Rosh Hashanah remind us of how new beginnings can bring hope and unity. We wish all Jewish communities in Canada and beyond a happy, healthy and meaningful New Year.

Shana tova u metuka!

Waleed Saleem
Attaché de presse
Cabinet de la ministre de la Diversité, de l’Inclusion et des Personnes en situation de handicap
waleed.saleem@hrsdc-rhdcc.gc.ca

MIL OSI Canada News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Government meeting (2024, No. 29)

MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

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

1. On the draft federal law “On Amendments to the Federal Law “On the State Defense Order” (in terms of creating legal grounds for the Federal Treasury to exercise its powers for automated monitoring of prices for products under the state defense order in the state integrated information system for managing public finances “Electronic Budget”)

The bill is aimed at identifying risks affecting the cost of products supplied under state defense orders, in the order of a preventive risk-oriented approach for the response of state customers of state defense orders, implementing organizations, and federal executive bodies to such facts.

2. On the draft federal law “On Amendments to Article 32 of the Federal Law “On Special Economic Zones in the Russian Federation” and Article 22 of the Land Code of the Russian Federation”

The bill proposes to lift restrictions on residents of special economic zones attracting additional borrowed financing by transferring lease rights as collateral to credit institutions.

3. On amendments to the distribution of subsidies to the budgets of constituent entities of the Russian Federation for the creation of modular non-capital accommodation facilities during the implementation of investment projects for 2024, approved by Appendix 31 (Table 140) to the Federal Law “On the Federal Budget for 2024 and for the Planning Period of 2025 and 2026”

The draft order is aimed at approving the subject-by-subject distribution of funds within the framework of the implementation of the state program of the Russian Federation “Tourism Development”.

4. On the allocation of budgetary appropriations to the Ministry of Industry and Trade of Russia in 2024 from the reserve fund of the Government of the Russian Federation for the purpose of providing a subsidy from the federal budget to the autonomous non-profit organization “Center for Support of Engineering and Innovation” for the provision of grants to Russian organizations for conducting research and development work

The draft order is aimed at supporting innovative projects for the development and creation of production in priority industries, including in the areas of transport and oil and gas engineering.

5. On the draft federal law “On Amendments to the Federal Law “On the State Corporation for Space Activities “Roscosmos””

The bill is aimed at improving the regulation of legal relations related to the management of state property and clarifying certain powers of the state corporation.

6. On the allocation of budgetary allocations to Rosavtodor in 2024 from the reserve fund of the Government of the Russian Federation to ensure the accelerated implementation of measures for the construction and reconstruction of highways

After the completion of construction of a number of sections of the federal highway M-7 “Volga”, they will become part of the M-12 “Vostok” highway as part of its extension from Kazan to Yekaterinburg.

7. On the allocation of budgetary appropriations from the reserve fund of the Government of the Russian Federation to the Russian Emergencies Ministry in 2024 for the purpose of providing another interbudgetary transfer to the budget of the Kursk region for the financial support of certain measures to eliminate the consequences of the attack of the Ukrainian armed forces on the territory of the Kursk region, meaning the provision of financial assistance to affected citizens in connection with the complete loss of their essential property

Moscow, October 2, 2024

The content of the press releases of the Department of Press Service and References is a presentation of materials submitted by federal executive bodies for discussion at a meeting of the Government of the Russian Federation.

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/meetings/52881/

EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and or sentence structure not be perfect.

MIL OSI Russia News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI: Diversified Royalty Corp. Announces October 2024 Cash Dividend and Q3 2024 Earnings Release Date

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Oct. 02, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Diversified Royalty Corp. (TSX: DIV and DIV.DB.A) (the “Corporation” or “DIV”) is pleased to announce that its board of directors has approved a cash dividend of $0.02083 per common share for the period of October 1, 2024 to October 31, 2024, which is equal to $0.25 per common share on an annualized basis. The dividend will be paid on October 31, 2024 to shareholders of record as of the close of business on October 15, 2024.

Q3 2024 Earnings Release Date
DIV will release earnings results for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024 following the closing of regular trading on the Toronto Stock Exchange on November 6, 2024.

About Diversified Royalty Corp.

DIV is a multi-royalty corporation, engaged in the business of acquiring top-line royalties from well-managed multi-location businesses and franchisors in North America. DIV’s objective is to acquire predictable, growing royalty streams from a diverse group of multi-location businesses and franchisors.

DIV currently owns the Mr. Lube + Tires, AIR MILES®, Sutton, Mr. Mikes, Nurse Next Door, Oxford Learning Centres, Stratus Building Solutions and BarBurrito trademarks. Mr. Lube + Tires is the leading quick lube service business in Canada, with locations across Canada. AIR MILES® is Canada’s largest coalition loyalty program. Sutton is among the leading residential real estate brokerage franchisor businesses in Canada. Mr. Mikes operates casual steakhouse restaurants primarily in western Canadian communities. Nurse Next Door is a home care provider with locations across Canada and the United States as well as in Australia. Oxford Learning Centres is one of Canada’s leading franchisee supplemental education services. Stratus Building Solutions is a leading commercial cleaning service franchise company providing comprehensive environmentally friendly janitorial, building cleaning, and office cleaning services primarily in the United States. BarBurrito is the largest quick service Mexican restaurant food chain in Canada.

DIV’s objective is to increase cash flow per share by making accretive royalty purchases and through the growth of purchased royalties. DIV intends to continue to pay a predictable and stable monthly dividend to shareholders and increase the dividend over time, in each case as cash flow per share allows.

Forward Looking Statements

Certain statements contained in this news release may constitute “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable securities laws that involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. The use of any of the words “anticipate”, “continue”, “estimate”, “expect”, “intend”, “may”, “will”, ”project”, “should”, “believe”, “confident”, “plan” and “intends” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking information, although not all forward-looking information contains these identifying words. Specifically, forward-looking information in this news release includes, but is not limited to, statements made in relation to: the amount and timing of the October 2024 dividend to be paid to DIV’s shareholders; DIV’s objective to continue to pay predictable and stable monthly dividends to shareholders; and DIV’s corporate objectives. These statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results or events, performance, or achievements of DIV to differ materially from those anticipated or implied by such forward-looking information. DIV believes that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking information included in this news release are reasonable but no assurance can be given that these expectations will prove to be correct. In particular there can be no assurance that: DIV will be able to make monthly dividend payments to the holders of its common shares; or DIV will achieve any of its corporate objectives. Given these uncertainties, readers are cautioned that forward-looking information included in this news release are not guarantees of future performance, and such forward-looking information should not be unduly relied upon. More information about the risks and uncertainties affecting DIV’s business and the businesses of its royalty partners can be found in the “Risk Factors” section of its Annual Information Form dated March 21, 2024 and in its most recent Management’s Discussion and Analysis, copies of each of which are available under DIV’s profile on SEDAR+ at http://www.sedarplus.com.

In formulating the forward-looking information contained herein, management has assumed that, among other things, DIV will generate sufficient cash flows from its royalties to service its debt and pay dividends to shareholders; the business and economic conditions affecting DIV and its royalty partners will continue substantially in the ordinary course, including without limitation with respect to general industry conditions, general levels of economic activity and regulations. These assumptions, although considered reasonable by management at the time of preparation, may prove to be incorrect.

All of the forward-looking statements made in this news release are qualified by these cautionary statements and other cautionary statements or factors contained herein, and there can be no assurance that the actual results or developments will be realized or, even if substantially realized, that they will have the expected consequences to, or effects on, DIV. The forward-looking information included in this news release is presented as of the date of this news release and DIV assumes no obligation to publicly update or revise such information to reflect new events or circumstances, except as may be required by applicable law.

THE TORONTO STOCK EXCHANGE HAS NOT REVIEWED AND DOES NOT ACCEPT RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR THE ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE.

Additional Information

Additional information relating to the Corporation and other public filings, is available on SEDAR+ at http://www.sedarplus.com.

Contact:
Sean Morrison, President and Chief Executive Officer
Diversified Royalty Corp.
(236) 521-8470

Greg Gutmanis, Chief Financial Officer and VP Acquisitions
Diversified Royalty Corp.
(236) 521-8471

The MIL Network –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: SR 99 tunnel to close for first two weekends in October for inspection in Seattle
Source: Washington State News 2

SEATTLE – Both directions of the State Route 99 tunnel in Seattle will close the first two weekends in October for its first six-year inspection. The tunnel opened to travelers in February 2019 to replace the Alaskan Way Viaduct and provide safety and mobility improvements along Seattle’s central waterfront.

Closure details

From 10 p.m. Friday, Oct. 4, until 6 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 5, and from 10 p.m. Friday, Oct. 11, until 6 a.m. Sunday, Oct. 13, both directions of the SR 99 tunnel will close.

To conduct part of these inspections, Washington State Department of Transportation crews will begin to reduce lanes at 9 p.m. with the tunnel fully closed at 10 p.m. Southbound traffic will detour to the Harrison Street off-ramp and northbound traffic will detour to the Alaskan Way off-ramp. Additionally, the Sixth Avenue and Royal Brougham Way on-ramps will close at 9 p.m.

Travelers should seek alternate routes during these inspections and expect delays because several other WSDOT and Seattle Department of Transportation closures are scheduled the same weekends.

Other work

People traveling in the Puget Sound region should be aware of several other closures at the same time as the tunnel inspections, including:
- The Ballard Bridge in Seattle
  - 10 p.m. Friday, Oct. 4, to 5 a.m. Monday, Oct. 6
  - 10 p.m. Friday, Oct. 11, to 5 a.m. Monday, Oct. 14
- All northbound lanes of Interstate 5 from 54th Avenue East in Fife to SR 18 in Federal Way
  - 10:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 4, to 7 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 5
  - 10:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 11, to 7 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 12
  - 10:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 12, to 8 a.m. Sunday, Oct. 13
- All southbound lanes of I-5 from SR 18 in Federal Way to 54th Avenue East in Fife
  - 11 p.m. Friday, Oct. 4, to 7:30 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 5
  - 11 p.m. Friday, Oct. 11, to 7:30 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 12
  - 11 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 12, to 8:30 Sunday, Oct. 13
- Both directions of the SR 520 bridge, between I-5 in Seattle and 92nd Avenue Northeast in Clyde Hill
  - 11 p.m. Friday, Oct. 11, to 5 a.m. Monday, Oct. 14
Inspection details

In February 2001, a 6.8 magnitude earthquake struck near Olympia, causing several foundations of Alaskan Way Viaduct columns to shift as much as 5 inches. Engineers believed the viaduct would have collapsed had the earthquake lasted a few moments longer.

During the next decade, state and local agencies studied more than 90 alternatives to replace the aging viaduct, which carried SR 99 through Seattle. In 2009, a deep-bored tunnel was chosen. Construction finished in February 2019. The unique structure of the tunnel and federal regulations require specialized inspections every six years.

The inspections take two weeks to complete, but crews only need to close the tunnels during the two weekends.

The inspections will include an overall condition assessment of the tunnel’s electrical systems and checks of the fire detection system, communication systems, lighting, jet fans, cameras and variable message signs.

The inspections also will include an overall condition assessment of the tunnel’s
mechanical system, including operational testing of the centrifuge fans and other aspects of the ventilation system, drainage system and generator.

To perform these specialized inspections, the WSDOT Bridge Preservation team brings in inspectors and vendors from out of state.

People can get real-time traffic information on mobile phones with the  WSDOT traffic app and the  WSDOT real-time travel map.

MIL OSI USA News –
January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: President Biden Approves Governor Cooper’s Request for Active-Duty Military Personnel and Equipment for Western North Carolina

Source: US State of North Carolina

Headline: President Biden Approves Governor Cooper’s Request for Active-Duty Military Personnel and Equipment for Western North Carolina

President Biden Approves Governor Cooper’s Request for Active-Duty Military Personnel and Equipment for Western North Carolina
bconroy
Wed, 10/02/2024 – 16:37

Today, President Biden approved Governor Cooper’s request for active-duty military personnel and equipment to support ongoing rescue, relief and recovery operations in Western North Carolina. The Governor previously requested Department of Defense aviation resources which were approved to surge personnel and equipment to western North Carolina communities as state, federal and local partners work together to effectively use all resources.

The active-duty military personnel are in addition to more than 1,000 North Carolina National Guard soldiers currently deployed who are surging food, water, supplies and conducting search and rescue operations. The NC National Guard has already performed more than 1,400 rescues and delivered more than 700,000 pounds in supplies.

“We are bolstering our massive relief and rescue effort in communities impacted by Hurricane Helene and I am grateful for President Biden’s approval of our requests,” said Governor Roy Cooper. “The North Carolina National Guard is already on the ground working with federal, state, non-profit and local emergency responders around the clock to save lives, deliver critical supplies, and restore communications and utilities.”

President Biden and Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III have authorized the movement of up to 1,000 active-duty military personnel to support the delivery of food, water and other critical aid to communities impacted by Hurricane Helene.

The active-duty soldiers are part of an Infantry Battalion Task Force, formed from the XVII Airborne Corps to include members of the 82^nd Airborne and other units stationed at Fort Liberty, NC. The task force includes a Forward Support Company with the necessary support structures (fuel, water, mechanics, etc.) to support stabilizing critical lifelines and essential services for communities in North Carolina. Soldiers are assembling and moving to the affected areas within the next 24 hours.

###

Oct 2, 2024

MIL OSI USA News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: Suspicious fire at Torrensville

Source: South Australia Police

Police are investigating a suspicious fire at Torrensville early this morning.

About 3am on Thursday 3 October, police and emergency services were called to Henley Beach Road after reports of a fire at a business premises.

Fire crews were quickly on scene and doused the flames. Fortunately, there was no structural damage to the property and there were no reports of injuries.

The fire was believed to have been caused by a Molotov cocktail at the front of the building.

Crime Scene Investigators and Western District Detectives will make their way to the scene this morning to further investigate the incident.

Anyone who may have dashcam footage or saw any suspicious activity in the area at the time are asked to contact Crime Stoppers. You can anonymously provide information to Crime Stoppers online at https://crimestopperssa.com.au or free call 1800 333 000.

MIL OSI News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: CFTC Charges Former CEO of Carbon Credit Project Developer with Fraud Involving Voluntary Carbon Credits

Source: US Commodity Futures Trading Commission

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Commodity Futures Trading Commission today filed a complaint in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York against Kenneth Newcombe of California, the former chief executive officer and majority shareholder of a Washington, D.C.-based carbon credit project developer, charging fraud and false, misleading, or inaccurate reports relating to voluntary carbon credits. The CFTC also issued orders filing and settling charges against Washington, D.C.-based CQC Impact Investors LLC (CQC) and against Jason Steele, CQC’s former chief operating officer. These are the first CFTC actions for fraud in the voluntary carbon credit market.

“Last month, I highlighted the CFTC’s final guidance for designated contract markets that list derivatives on voluntary carbon credits as the underlying commodity as a critical step in support of the development of high-integrity voluntary carbon markets,” said Chairman Rostin Behnam. “Today’s actions show strong enforcement is another critical step in ensuring the integrity of these markets.”

“With the first enforcement actions charging fraud in connection with the issuances and sales of voluntary carbon credits, the CFTC demonstrates its commitment to vigorously fight fraud in its markets, whether long-established or new and evolving, such as the carbon credit markets,” said Director of Enforcement Ian McGinley. “Today’s action also exemplifies the value the Division of Enforcement and the CFTC place in substantial cooperation in the division’s investigations and appropriate remediation, as reflected here in a reduction in penalty for CQC.”

Newcombe Complaint

The complaint against Newcombe alleges from at least 2019 to at least in or about Dec. 2023, Newcombe, while CEO and majority shareholder of a carbon credit project developer, engaged in a fraudulent scheme that involved reporting false and misleading information to at least one carbon credit registry and third-party reviewers, among others. The complaint alleges Newcombe did so in order to present a misleading impression of the quality of the project developer’s emissions-reduction projects to obtain carbon credits far beyond what the company was entitled to receive, and which the carbon credit project developer could and did sell to others.

The CFTC seeks civil monetary penalties, disgorgement of ill-gotten gains, restitution, permanent trading and registrations bans, and a permanent injunction against further violations of the Commodity Exchange Act (CEA), as charged.

CQC Order

The CQC order finds from in or after 2019 to at least Dec. 2023, CQC engaged in a deceptive scheme relating to projects it developed purportedly intended to reduce carbon emissions, such as by installing more efficient cookstoves or LED light bulbs in sub-Saharan Africa, Asia, and Central America. Based on information CQC reported to at least one carbon credit registry and third-party reviewers, among others, CQC sought and received issuances of carbon credits that CQC could and did sell to other participants in the voluntary carbon credit market. As found in the order, CQC fraudulently reported false, misleading, and inaccurate information in connection with the verification and issuance of carbon credits, which resulted in the issuances of millions more carbon offset credits than CQC was entitled to receive. According to the order, CQC’s fraudulent conduct involved certain of the company’s former executives, supervisors, and operations and compliance personnel.

The order requires CQC to pay a $1 million civil monetary penalty, cease and desist from violating the applicable provisions of the CEA and CFTC regulations, and comply with certain conditions and undertakings, including the cancelation or retirement of voluntary carbon credits sufficient to address the violative conduct. CQC admitted the findings of the order and acknowledged that its conduct violated the CEA and CFTC regulations.

The order recognizes CQC’s substantial cooperation with the Division of Enforcement and CQC’s representations of its remediation, such as terminating, replacing or separating from individuals responsible for the violative conduct, and notes CQC’s substantial cooperation and appropriate remediation is further reflected in the form of a reduced civil monetary penalty.

Jason Steele Order

The Steele order finds, while COO of the project developer, he intentionally participated in the project developer’s providing false and misleading information to at least one carbon credit registry and third-party reviewers, among others, for the purpose of presenting a misleading impression of the quality of the cookstove projects, wrongfully increasing the number of carbon credits a project would produce. Steele admitted the findings of the order and acknowledged that his conduct violated the CEA and CFTC regulations.

The order recognizes Steele entered into a formal cooperation agreement with the Division of Enforcement.

Parallel Criminal and Civil Actions

Today, in separate actions, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York and the Securities and Exchange Commission announced filing parallel matters for related conduct.

The Division of Enforcement thanks and acknowledges the assistance of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the SEC.

The Division of Enforcement also thanks the Division’s Environmental Fraud Task Force.

The Division of Enforcement staff members responsible for this case are Meredith Borner, Nicole Buseman, Jonathan G. Coppola, Trevor Kokal, Gates S. Hurand, R. Stephen Painter, Jr., Lenel Hickson, Jr., and Manal M. Sultan.

* * * * * * *

Customers and other individuals can report suspicious activities or information, such as possible violations of commodity trading laws, to the Division of Enforcement via a toll-free hotline 866-FON-CFTC (866-366-2382), file a tip or complaint online, or contact the Whistleblower Office. Whistleblowers may be eligible to receive between 10 and 30 percent of the monetary sanctions collected paid from the CFTC Customer Protection Fund, which is financed through monetary sanctions paid to the CFTC by violators of the CEA.

The CFTC also notes its June 20, 2023 Whistleblower Office Alert seeking tips related to carbon market misconduct.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Ricketts, Ernst Introduce Bill to Deport Illegal Immigrants Convicted of Sex Crimes

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator Pete Ricketts (Nebraska)

October 2, 2024

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) joined Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA) to introduce the Better Enforcement of Grievous Offenses by unNaturalized Emigrants (BE GONE) Act. The bill, led by Ernst, would allow the U.S. to deport sexual offenders currently in the country and block those seeking to enter.

The introduction comes after a shocking Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) report revealed that 16,320 illegal immigrants with sexual assault convictions are in the U.S. This legislation would also amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to include sexual assault and aggravated sexual violence as crimes that are defined as “aggravated felonies.”

“The Biden-Harris administration’s open borders policies have allowed violent sexual offenders to cross our border illegally then roam undeterred across America,” said Senator Ricketts. “They should have never set foot in our country. Our bill will make sure these criminals are deported or stopped from ever crossing our border.”

“These violent criminals never would have entered America in the first place if we had real border security, but now that they’re in our communities, they need to BE GONE,” said Senator Ernst. “Since Border Czar Kamala Harris won’t protect this country, then I will. My legislation will combat sexual violence by ensuring predators are identified, stopped, and deported.”

“I am honored to amplify and support the incredible efforts of Senator Joni Ernst on this bill. Senator Ernst has been the tip of the spear when it comes to enhancing our public safety,” said Retired Acting Director of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Tom Homan. “This bill will hold accountable those who commit the most heinous crimes and ensure they are dealt consequences. That is something this country not only demands but expects from our representatives and as always Joni Ernst comes through for America.”

“We are grateful to Senator Ernst for introducing the BE GONE Act which will deport immigrants who have committed heinous acts,” said NumbersUSA Director of Federal Affairs Michael Hough. “This is common sense legislation that Congress must pass, so criminals are identified and stopped to protect Americans.”

“The Biden-Harris Administration has created an historic crisis at our borders. Under this administration’s policies, tens of thousands of criminal aliens are being apprehended attempting to enter illegally and shocking new data shows that there are now 16,320 aliens in the U.S. convicted of sexual assault,” said Federation for American Immigration Reform (FAIR) President Dan Stein. “Congress must work to ensure that criminal aliens are quickly removed from our country and this bill will help to accomplish exactly that. FAIR is proud to support the BE GONE Act and keeping American communities safe from illegal alien crime.”

MIL OSI USA News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Senator Reverend Warnock Champions Bipartisan Push for Quick Passage of Disaster Relief Legislation

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock – Georgia

Senator Reverend Warnock Champions Bipartisan Push for Quick Passage of Disaster Relief Legislation

Senator Reverend Warnock is urging congressional leadership to act urgently to meet needs of Georgians and Americans impacted by Hurricane Helene

Effort follows Senator Reverend Warnock’s previous push to congressional leadership to ensure disaster relief resources are made available to agricultural producers following the devastating impacts of Hurricane Helene

ICYMI: Senator Reverend Warnock Meets with Community Leaders, Surveys Damage in Augusta Following Hurricane Helene

Senator Reverend Warnock and lawmakers: “Although the true level of devastation is still unfolding, it is clear that Congress must act to meet the unmet needs in our states and address the scope and scale of destruction experienced by our constituents. This may even require Congress to come back in October to ensure we have enough time to enact legislation before the end of this calendar year”

Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA) and 11 of his colleagues made a bipartisan push urging Senate leadership to quickly pass supplemental government funding legislation to support the millions of Georgians and Americans affected by Hurricane Helene. In a letter to addressed to Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY), Senate Appropriations Chair Patty Murray (D-WA), and Senate Appropriations Vice Chair Susan Collins (R-ME), Senator Warnock and his colleagues lamented the loss of life across the southeast, destruction of communities, and ongoing impacts following Hurricane Helen’s landfall as recovery efforts continue. In the letter, Senator Warnock and his colleagues also indicated that Congress may need to return into session in October to ensure enough time to enact disaster relief legislation this year.

“The devastation from Hurricane Helene across the southeastern United States is simply inconceivable…Because of a lack of cell service, we anticipate even greater tragedy to unfold in the days and weeks ahead as communications and power are restored and we can understand the full scope of this disaster,” Senator Warnock and his colleagues wrote.

“Even preliminary damage assessments indicate that, at a minimum, the total damage and economic loss will be in the tens of billions of dollars. This amount will likely soar as recovery efforts continue and the full picture of this ruinous disaster becomes clear,” Senator Warnock and his colleagues continued.

The letter was led by U.S. Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) and, in addition to Senator Warnock, was signed by U.S. Senators Ted Budd (R-NC), Lindsey Graham (R-SC), Tim Scott (R-SC), Jon Ossoff (D-GA), Marco Rubio (R-FL), Rick Scott (R-FL), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Bill Hagerty (R-TN), Mark Warner (D-VA), and Tim Kaine (D-VA).

Senator Warnock has been a vocal proponent for additional disaster aid and resources for Georgians, including successfully passing legislation strengthening funding for Federal Emergency Management Agency, Department of Housing and Urban Development, and the Small Business Administration to address storm damage.

Text of the full letter is available HERE.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Senator Warnock Joins Bipartisan, Bicameral Push for Agricultural Disaster Relief Funding Following Hurricane Helene

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock – Georgia

Senator Warnock Joins Bipartisan, Bicameral Push for Agricultural Disaster Relief Funding Following Hurricane Helene

Senator Reverend Warnock is a key member of the Senate Agriculture committee and longtime champion of Georgia’s agriculture community

Senator Reverend Warnock is urging congressional leadership to ensure disaster relief resources are made available to agricultural producers following the devastating impacts of Hurricane Helene

Senator Reverend Warnock has previously pushed Congress to approve additional disaster relief for Georgia’s farmers

Senator Reverend Warnock and lawmakers: “To prevent deep and lasting economic damage to the agricultural industry in the southeastern United States, it is imperative that Congress make appropriations as soon as possible upon the completion of damage assessments to fully fund unmet agricultural disaster relief needs in our states and across the nation”

Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA), a key member of the Senate Agriculture committee, joined 34 of his colleagues in a bipartisan, bicameral effort to push Congressional leaders to approve urgent disaster relief funding that will help prevent deep and lasting economic damage to the agricultural industry in the southeastern United States following the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene. Last week, Hurricane Helene made landfall in Florida as a devastating Category 4 hurricane before making its way through Georgia and downgrading to a tropical storm affecting South Carolina, North Carolina, Kentucky, and Tennessee—with deep, disastrous impacts across agricultural sectors. In a new letter led by U.S. Senator Jon Ossoff (D-GA) and U.S. Representative Austin Scott (R-GA-08), Senator Warnock and a bipartisan group of lawmakers representing southeastern U.S. states urged Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) and Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) to work with Congress and the Biden Administration to ensure disaster relief resources are made available to agricultural producers following the damaging impacts of Hurricane Helene to the state’s crops and livestock.

“To prevent deep and lasting economic damage to the agricultural industry in the southeastern United States, it is imperative that Congress make appropriations as soon as possible upon the completion of damage assessments to fully fund unmet agricultural disaster relief needs in our states and across the nation,” Senator Warnock and colleagues wrote to congressional leadership. “Farmers and growers nationwide, not only those damaged by Helene, have now faced multiple growing seasons without sufficient federal support. Our constituents are counting on us to act swiftly.”

Warnock, Ossoff and Scott were joined in their letter by U.S. Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) and U.S. Representatives Earl L. “Buddy” Carter (R-GA-01), Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (D-GA-02), Drew Ferguson (R-GA-03), Hank Johnson (D-GA-04), Nikema Williams (D-GA-05), Rich McCormick (R-GA-06), Lucy McBath (D-GA-07), Andrew Clyde (R-GA-09), Mike Collins (R-GA-10), Barry Loudermilk (R-GA-11), Rick Allen (R-GA-12), David Scott (D-GA-13), Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA-14), Darren Soto (D-FL-09), Maxwell Frost (D-FL-10), Kathy Castor (D-FL-14), Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-FL-20), Jared Moskowitz (D-FL-23), Frederica Wilson (D-FL-24), Morgan McGarvey (D-KY-03), Don Davis (D-NC-01), Deborah Ross (D-NC-02), Greg Murphy (R-NC-03), Kathy Manning (D-NC-06), Dan Bishop (R-NC-08), Chuck Edwards (R-NC-11), Alma Adams (D-NC-12) Wiley Nickel (D-NC-13), Jeff Jackson (D-NC-14), and Diana Harshbarger (R-TN-01).

“Federal agricultural disaster assistance is essential to help our states and our Nation recover. We urge you to work with the administration to ensure disaster relief resources are made available to our growers. Thank you for your support, and we look forward to working with you to secure these critical resources,” Senator Warnock and the lawmakers continued.

Senator Warnock has been a vocal proponent for additional disaster aid and resources for Georgia’s farmers. Prior to Hurricane Helene, Senator Warnock pushed the Biden Administration to support Georgia’s agricultural industry following natural disasters, including urging the Administration to provide funding for agricultural disaster assistance in the President’s supplemental appropriations requests to Congress, noting the particular impact of Hurricane Idalia and the early freeze in March 2023 on Georgia’s key agricultural industries. Following Hurricane Idalia, Senator Warnock also successfully passed legislation strengthening funding for Federal Emergency Management Agency, Department of Housing and Urban Development, and the Small Business Administration to address storm damage. In December 2023, Senator Warnock traveled to Albany and joined local growers on a pecan farm damaged by severe storms to highlight his commitment to South Georgia farmers—including his focus on securing federal disaster assistance to Georgia farmers impacted by these storms, and protecting permanent disaster assistance to provide relief following future natural disasters and stronger storms. The Senator has also championed improving safety net programs for Georgia’s specialty crops and securing federal relief for producers following natural disasters, previously introducing the bipartisan Protecting America’s Orchardists and Nursery Tree Growers Act to reform the Tree Assistance Program (TAP) so it will work more efficiently, improve margins for producers, and help them compete with foreign imports. In 2021, Senator Warnock joined Senator Bill Cassidy (R-LA) to introduce legislation that will help America’s landowners recover from the loss of timber after natural disasters; the Disaster Reforestation Act improves the tax code to allow forest owners to deduct the value of their timber prior to the loss caused by a natural disaster.

Read the bipartisan, bicameral letter HERE.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Baldwin Introduces Bill to Prevent Fentanyl Trafficking Through U.S. Transportation Networks
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for Wisconsin Tammy Baldwin

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) introduced new legislation to crack down on the trafficking of illicit synthetic drugs, like fentanyl, using the U.S. transportation network. The bill would create first-ever inspection strategies to stop drug smuggling by commercial aircraft, railroads, vehicles, and ships. The legislation would boost state, local and tribal law enforcement resources, deploy cutting edge non-intrusive detection technologies, and increase inspections at ports of entry.

“I’ve heard from parents who lost children, law enforcement fighting on the front lines, and advocates – all demanding we do more to stop the scourge of fentanyl,” said Senator Baldwin. “I’m fighting this crisis on all fronts – from stopping the precursor chemicals being manufactured in China, to boosting access to overdose reversal drugs, and everything in between. I’m proud to lead this legislation to give our law enforcement the tools they need to stop drug traffickers from using American airports, railways, ports, and roads to smuggle fentanyl into our communities.”

According to U.S. Government authorities, drug traffickers exploit the U.S. transportation network to smuggle fentanyl, precursor chemicals and other illicit drugs into and throughout the country. Once drugs have entered the country, drug traffickers continue to rely on the national transportation network—trucks, trains and commercial aircraft—to move their product to its final destination.

Senator Baldwin introduced this legislation with Senators Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Jon Tester (D-MT), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), and Ben Ray Luján (D-NM). The Stop Smuggling Illicit Synthetic Drugs on U.S. Transportation Networks Act of 2024 would:
- Create a National Prevention Plan: Directs the Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) to develop a comprehensive national strategy that examines the entire U.S. transportation network and ports of entry to prevent the smuggling of illicit synthetic drugs.
- Boost Illegal Drug Detection by Air, Sea, Rail and Road: The bill establishes four new transportation-specific inspection programs—private and commercial aircraft, railroads, commercial vehicles and maritime vessels—to expand detection across all transportation modes and prevent interstate smuggling. State, local, tribal and territorial law enforcement would carry out inspections using non-intrusive technologies and canines, in coordination with federal law enforcement authorities – and without unduly delaying the movement of goods or interrupting interstate commerce.
- Deploy High-Tech Detection Tools: Directs the Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP) and the ONDCP to accelerate new emerging, non-intrusive technologies, including integrating AI and quantum, to detect illicit synthetic drugs. National laboratories, including Pacific Northwest National Laboratories, are already developing next-generation technologies for fentanyl detection. AI could help increase capacities to integrate multiple sources of data and overcome challenges in identifying fentanyl when it is mixed with other opioids to evade detection.
- Increase Port of Entry Drug Detections: Currently, only 1-2 percent of passenger vehicles and 15-17 percent of commercial vehicles are scanned at U.S. ports of entry. The bill requires Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to inspect 100 percent of motor vehicles and railroads entering the country through a port of entry within five years, and all civil air cargo and maritime cargo within ten years.
- Support Law Enforcement Workforce, Technology and Training: Authorizes the Secretary of Homeland Security to provide grants to state, local, tribal and territorial law enforcement to acquire new technology and canines and support overtime and other program-related expenses. It would also increase federal support to state and local crime scene investigators and forensics laboratories to process evidence related to fentanyl crimes and deaths.
- Improve Data and Information Sharing to Prevent Drug Trafficking: Requires the Director of ONDCP to create a public-private task force to improve intelligence and information sharing among federal, state and local authorities and the private sector to combat drug trafficking.
“The National Narcotic Officers’ Associations’ Coalition applauds Senator Cantwell for her work on the Stop Smuggling Illicit Synthetic Drugs on U.S. Transportation Networks Act. The surge in drug poisoning deaths, especially from fentanyl, shows that more needs to be done. We know that a large portion of illegal narcotics are trafficked through our transportation systems, and this legislation will provide the needed resources such as advanced detection technology and canines to enhance law enforcement’s ability to conduct inspections on our nation’s transportation systems,” said Eric Brown, President of the National Narcotic Officers’ Associations’ Coalition.

“The Major Cities Chiefs Association thanks Senator Cantwell for taking an innovative approach to fentanyl interdiction with the Stop Smuggling Illicit Synthetic Drugs on U.S. Transportation Networks Act. In cities across the country, resources are strained and the fentanyl crisis is a factor. Federal support is welcome as MCCA member agencies work to curb this crisis and promote safer communities and public health. We look forward to additional engagement on the matter as it moves forward in Congress,” said Laura Cooper, Executive Director of the Major Cities Chiefs Association.

“Deaths and adverse events from illicit synthetic drugs continue to be at epidemic proportions, yet funding for forensics labs remains stagnant. This bill prioritizes resources for the professionals on the front lines of the fight against illicit drugs, including fentanyl and other novel psychoactive substances. We commend members of the Commerce Committee for taking this approach to ensure our forensic experts have the necessary resources and data to combat this epidemic,” said Matthew Gamette, Chair of the Consortium of Forensic Science Organizations.

“The Association of State Criminal Investigative Agencies (ASCIA) appreciates Senator Cantwell’s introduction of the Stop Smuggling Illicit Synthetic Drugs on U.S. Transportation Networks Act of 2024. While recent figures show progress in reducing drug poisoning deaths in the U.S., we are nowhere near where we need to be to protect Americans from the ongoing threat. This bill would strengthen the ability of agencies at all levels of government to detect and disrupt drug trafficking,” said Drew Evans, President of the Association of State Criminal Investigative Agencies.

“The National High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) Directors Association appreciates Senator Cantwell’s efforts to combat the fentanyl crisis and her support for providing critically needed tools and resources for state, local, tribal and federal law enforcement to interdict fentanyl shipments before negatively impacting the communities across the country. Given the profound impact fentanyl has had on families, schools, and communities, this bill will be instrumental in enabling law enforcement agencies participating in the HIDTA program to develop new and innovative strategies to tackle this crisis,” said F. Mike McDaniel, President of the National High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) Directors Association.

“The Major County Sheriffs of America (MCSA) strongly supports the Stop Smuggling Illicit Synthetic Drugs on U.S. Transportation Networks Act of 2024. This vital legislation will equip law enforcement with effective tools to combat drug smuggling and the fentanyl crisis, while also enhancing data sharing in the fight against drug trafficking. We extend our gratitude to Senators Cantwell, Tester, Baldwin, Rosen, and Luján for their leadership in advancing this important initiative,” said Megan Noland, Executive Director of Major County Sheriffs of America.

Senator Baldwin has been fighting to combat the fentanyl and opioid crisis, disrupting supply chains and bolstering support for prevention and recovery services. As Chair of the Senate Commerce Subcommittee that oversees the U.S. Coast Guard, Senator Baldwin held a hearing in September on the Coast Guard’s role in combatting the fentanyl crisis and stemming the flow of drugs into the United States. She worked to pass the FEND Off Fentanyl Act to stem the flow of the drug from coming into the U.S. by cracking down on Chinese chemical suppliers and Mexican cartels. Senator Baldwin also fought to pass a bipartisan bill that would have helped bolster border security and technology and reform parts of the immigration system.

As Chair of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies (LHHS), Senator Baldwin wrote the government funding bill that funds the opioid response program and successfully fought to get it signed into law. Senator Baldwin also led the charge to improve the reach of the funding through her State Opioid Response Grant Authorization Act, giving Wisconsin increased funding and more flexibility in administering federal investments.

A one-pager on this bill is available here. Full text of this legislation is available here.
MIL OSI USA News –
January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Lankford Issues Joint Statement with Bipartisan Task Forces for Combating Antisemitism on FBI Hate Crime Statistics Report

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Oklahoma James Lankford
OKLAHOMA CITY, OK — Senators James Lankford (R-OK) and Jacky Rosen (D-NV) along with Representatives Kathy Manning (NC-06) and Chris Smith (NJ-04), co-chairs of the Senate and House Bipartisan Task Forces for Combating Antisemitism, respectively, released the following statement in response to the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s (FBI) 2023 Hate Crime Statistics Report. The FBI data shows anti-Jewish hate crimes increased in 2023 by nearly 63 percent from 2022, which is the highest number recorded in almost three decades.
“We are deeply alarmed by the dramatic increase in hate crimes targeting Jewish Americans over the past year, as noted in the FBI’s 2023 Hate Crimes Statistics Report,” said the Members. “With antisemitism skyrocketing across the United States following Hamas’s October 7 terrorist attack on Israel, a whole-of-government approach is needed to protect Jewish communities from violence and hate.”
Anti-Jewish hate crimes rose from 1,122 to 1,832 incidents from 2022 to 2023. According to the FBI, a total of 16,009 law enforcement agencies, which represent 95.2 percent of the agencies enrolled in the hate crime data collection program, participated in hate crimes reporting for 2023.
They continued: “As the co-chairs of the House and Senate Bipartisan Task Forces for Combating Antisemitism, we remain steadfast in our commitment to root out the scourge of antisemitism. We’ll continue working across party lines to ensure the federal government keeps Jewish Americans safe from discrimination.”
Jewish Americans make up around two percent of the US population, yet antisemitic hate crimes accounted for 15.4 percent of all hate crimes reported by the FBI. Anti-Jewish incidents comprised a little over two-thirds of all religion-based hate crimes.
As co-chair of the Senate Bipartisan Taskforce for Countering Antisemitism, Lankford has been leading the fight against rising antisemitism. Lankford, along with the co-chairs of the Senate and House Bipartisan Task Forces, introduced a bill to take historic action to counter antisemitism in the United States by establishing a first-ever National Coordinator to Counter Antisemitism. In May, Lankford and Rosen sent a letter urging the Department of Education to designate a senior official to oversee efforts to combat antisemitism on college campuses. They also called on the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee to hold a full hearing on rising antisemitism on college campuses.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 23, 2025