NewzIntel.com

Category: Americas

  • MIL-OSI Security: Cedar Rapids Man Sentenced to over 24 Years in Federal Prison for Attempted Sex Trafficking of a Child and Destruction of Evidence

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    A man who attempted to solicit a minor to engage in prostitution was sentenced on January 24, 2025, to 292 months in federal prison.

    Joshua Johnson, age 50, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, received the sentence after an August 7, 2024, jury verdict finding him guilty of attempted sex trafficking of a child and destruction of evidence.  The evidence at trial showed that, in December 2023, Johnson responded to an ad on a website for prostitution.  He exchanged text messages with a person who stated that she was 13 years old; she actually was an undercover law enforcement officer.  Johnson sent messages describing sex acts he could perform with the minor, and he traveled to Hiawatha, Iowa, to meet with her.  After meeting with officers, Johnson wiped his cell phone.

    Johnson was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Chief Judge C.J. Williams.  Johnson was sentenced to 292 months’ imprisonment.  He must also serve a five-year term of supervised release after the prison term.  There is no parole in the federal system.   

    This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Mark Tremmel and was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Homeland Security Investigations, the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation, and the Hiawatha Police Department.

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

    Court file information is available at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.  The case file number is CR 24-38.

    Follow us on X @USAO_NDIA.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Guatemalan Man Sentenced to Prison for Illegally Reentering the United States After Being Deported

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    A man who illegally returned to the United States after being deported was sentenced January 24, 2025, to one year in federal prison.

    Pablo Perez-Chavez, age 24, a citizen of Guatemala illegally present in the United States and residing in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, received the prison term after an August 29, 2024, guilty plea to one count of illegal reentry into the United States after having been deported following a conviction for an aggravated felony.

    At the guilty plea, Perez-Chavez admitted he had previously been deported from the United States and illegally reentered the United States without the permission of the United States government.  Perez-Chavez was convicted in January 2023 in the Northern District of Iowa of possession of a firearm by an alien, served 10 months’ imprisonment and placed on a three-year term of supervised release before being deported in May 2023.  On July 15, 2024, immigration officials learned Perez-Chavez had illegally returned to the United States after Perez-Chavez reported to the Linn County Jail to serve a state OWI sentence.  Perez-Chavez was also charged with violating the terms of his supervised release by reentering the United States without permission.  

    Perez-Chavez was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Chief Judge C.J. Williams.  Perez-Chavez was sentenced to eight months’ imprisonment.  He must also serve a three-year term of supervised release after the prison term.  Perez-Chavez was also sentenced to four months’ imprisonment to be served consecutively for violating the terms of his supervised release on his prior firearm conviction.  There is no parole in the federal system.

    Perez-Chavez is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.

    The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Daniel C. Tvedt and investigated by the Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations.

    Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.

    The case file number is 24-CR-67.

    Follow us on X @USAO_NDIA.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Global: How Canada and the U.S. can still tackle climate change in a second Trump era

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Andy Hira, Professor of Political Science, Simon Fraser University

    U.S. President Donald Trump has once again withdrawn the United States from the Paris agreement on climate change.

    There is a palpable sense of fear among environmentalists and those concerned about climate change following Trump’s re-election. His “drill baby drill” support for fossil fuels in the U.S. and frequent criticisms of renewable energy suggest that the world can expect to see a U.S. government that is far less interested in addressing climate change.

    In addition to leaving the Paris deal, Trump is likely to peel back the climate change elements of former president Joe Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) and disempower the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Trump’s nominee to head the EPA, Lee Zeldin, has promised to “pursue energy dominance.” Meanwhile, Chris Wright, Trump’s choice for energy secretary, is the CEO of Liberty Energy, a fracking company.

    While a majority of Americans recognize the dangers of climate change, how they prioritize action to address it tends to fall along partisan lines, with Republican voters seeing a trade-off with economic growth.

    Despite the challenges a second Trump administration is likely to bring, Canada can continue to address climate change by working with sub-national leadership in the U.S.

    Donald Trump signs an executive order withdrawing from the Paris climate agreement.

    U.S. states still making progress

    There are clear indications that Trump will move to dismantle key environmental policies. A dominant Trump adviser, Tesla CEO Elon Musk, has indicated his support for removing US$7,500 tax credits for the purchase of electric vehicles (EVs), apparently viewing it as a way to undermine Tesla competitors.

    But this move is opposed by other automakers that have invested billions into developing new supply chains.

    Furthermore, dismantling the IRA could undermine Trump’s broader economic agenda. Chinese companies have already leapfrogged their U.S. competitors when it comes to EVs. Biden’s tariffs on Chinese EVs and his promotion of battery supply chains are perfectly compatible with Trump’s own desire to bolster American manufacturing.

    However, despite the negative outlook on climate policy at the federal level, several U.S. states have made significant progress. Many American states already have significant and rapidly growing contributions from renewable energy, including Republican-led states such as Iowa and Texas, which generated respectively 60 and 20 per cent of its electricity from wind in 2024.

    In addition, 24 American states are projected to reduce net carbon emissions by 27 to 39 per cent by 2030, and 45 states and the District of Columbia have EV support policies. Meanwhile, California and 11 other states have EV mandates.

    Globally, solar and offshore wind costs have declined dramatically since 2010 by 89 per cent and 68 per cent, respectively. According to the 2024 levelized cost of energy estimates by financial advisory firm Lazard, onshore wind in the U.S. is fully competitive with natural gas. Utility-level solar is also within the cost range of natural gas.

    California’s decision to ban gas cars by 2035 has been supported by automakers, though the deadline remains hotly contested. California has offered the same EV tax credit if the federal one is eliminated.

    What Canada should do

    Canada must accelerate its own transition to a low-carbon economy by supporting renewable energy initiatives in engineering, construction, transportation and carbon sequestration.

    Renewable energy opportunities that align with U.S. interests exist, and can be pursued irrespective of Trump’s policies. For example, Canada has an opportunity, jointly with the U.S., to expand our mutual critical mineral industry.

    Electrification is set to proceed apace regardless of the political leanings of governments, and the transformation of transportation from fossil fuels to electricity and battery power will require vast amounts of lithium, a mineral Canada has in large quantities. It will also require large investments in cutting-edge battery technology, which is a key limitation to green electrification.

    Canada can play a crucial role in the U.S. critical strategic minerals program. Canada is a critical source of such minerals, and can play a significant role in developing North American EV and battery supply chains.

    Considering both the need for these minerals and how tightly integrated the auto industry is in North America, such integration of supply chains fits within Trump’s general goal of reducing reliance on China. Canada can leverage this role to try to ensure it captures key portions of the supply chain that will create good jobs, particularly as oil demand inevitably winds down.

    Canada could also be a key partner in expanding nuclear energy production. We understand the resistance many have to this suggestion, but it’s worth reconsidering given the intermittency of renewable energy such as wind and solar.



    Read more:
    With nuclear power on the rise, reducing conspiracies and increasing public education is key

    Canada is the second-largest producer of uranium in the world. It has experience developing safe nuclear reactors, and technological advances have improved reactive safety and performance in recent decades.

    As part of reconciliation efforts, Canada must engage Indigenous Peoples in renewable energy discussions and actions on their own lands. Canadian governments should partner with Indigenous communities to provide them opportunities to ensure that investments in green energy are made appropriately and the benefits are shared fairly.

    Lastly, Canada should assist low-income countries to develop appropriate technologies to advance their adoption of renewable energy — think something like a federal renewable energy outreach program.

    By taking these steps, Canada could make significant contributions to helping tackle climate change both in North America and around the world.

    Andy Hira is the Director of the Clean Energy Research Group based at Simon Fraser University. The group has received funding from the Willow Grove Foundation and SFU.

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

    – ref. How Canada and the U.S. can still tackle climate change in a second Trump era – https://theconversation.com/how-canada-and-the-u-s-can-still-tackle-climate-change-in-a-second-trump-era-246290

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Mark Carney might have the edge as potential Liberal leader, but still faces major obstacles

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Sam Routley, PhD Candidate, Political Science, Western University

    In the weeks following Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s resignation announcement, the race to name his successor seems to have become a two-person contest between former Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland and Mark Carney, the former governor of the Bank of Canada and the Bank of England.

    As is the usual practice in leadership bids, each has sought to advance competing visions tied to their personal credentials and desirability as candidates.

    Emphasizing her extensive cabinet experience, for example, Freeland’s pitch has so far focused on the claim that she is best equipped to handle the “existential threat” posed by the second Donald Trump administration in the United States.

    In contrast, Carney has framed himself as a pragmatic outsider. To his supporters, his monetary management of both Brexit and the 2008 financial crisis shows he can effectively address Canada’s economic challenges while remaining above the apparent politicking, ideological excesses and questionable policy decisions of the Trudeau years.

    The importance of the ground game

    It’s difficult to say for certain who is most likely to prevail. Most polls suggest many Liberals are still undecided, although Carney and Freeland are at the same level of support among Canadian voters at large.

    The incredibly short timeline for the race — voters need to be registered as Liberals by the end of today to vote for a leader — does not provide enough time for discernible trends to emerge. Despite the focus on the personality of the candidates, the Liberal leadership will be won or lost on the basis of “ground-game” organization — that is, who can identify, register and mobilize the greatest number of supporters.

    At this point, however, it’s safe to say that Carney has an advantage. Compared to Freeland, he has secured the endorsements of most senior cabinet ministers, including Francois-Philippe Champagne, Melanie Joly, Steven Guilbeault, Harjit Sajjan and Jonathan Wilkinson. This provides not only legitimacy but, far more importantly, greater organizational prowess.

    Also important is the fact that, in an environment of anti-Trudeau sentiment, he has much more — though not complete — distance from the incumbent government. It’s difficult to see how Freeland, regardless of her experience, can effectively avoid associations with the consequences of the past or existing policies that she herself was instrumental in bringing about.

    Of course, Carney has his own challenges. He will likely have to clarify his relationship with the departing Trudeau government. Since 2020, the precise nature of his role as an informal policy adviser to the prime minister — including as the chair of a task force on economic growth — remains a mystery.

    And for all of his emphasis on the importance of good policy, the substance of his actual, announced policy proposals are thin, including an ambiguous stance on the carbon tax.

    Impressive resumé

    Nonetheless, Carney simply has far more flexibility and potential than the more rigid limitations of Freeland’s candidacy. When compared to Freeland, Carney’s pitch to Canadians seems, at least on paper, to be a much smarter response to Pierre Poilievre’s Conservatives.

    His impressive resumé has the potential to be a strong, substantive contrast to the sloganeering that has so far been offered by the Conservatives. Carney could represent a reasonable alternative to voters who, while desiring change, aren’t sold on Poilievre.

    But can Carney really reverse the fortunes of the Liberal Party? Although the next leader of the party is guaranteed to be Canada’s 24th prime minister, they face near Herculean odds in establishing a term that will last more than a couple of weeks due the near certainty of a non-confidence vote in Parliament after it resumes on March 24, 15 days after the Liberal convention.

    Poilievre’s Conservatives are well over 20 points ahead in public opinion polls as they benefit from an anti-incumbent sentiment that, although commonly expressed in a personal dislike for Trudeau, is really about a deeper discontent with Canada’s structural and economic challenges.

    And, unless the NDP reverses its refusal to support the government, a federal election is likely to be held by May.

    While Carney’s outsider status may inspire the Liberal faithful, his electoral performance is more likely to highlight the drawbacks of political inexperience. Although he has potential in terms of political skills, he may not have the time to realize that potential.

    Past Liberal leaders

    Historically, and to a greater degree than the Conservatives, the Liberals have been successful at recruiting leaders with accomplishments outside of partisan electoral politics.

    William Lyon Mackenzie King made his name in labour relations, while Lester B. Pearson had an incredibly successful career as a diplomat.

    Pierre Trudeau, furthermore, was not a supporter of the Liberal Party until 1965, becoming leader only three years after entering politics. In this vein, Carney — until this stage in his career a largely non-political and accomplished central banker — is a return to form.

    The difference, however, is that — with the exception of academic Michael Ignatieff in 2011 — each of these former leaders had some, albeit limited, experience. They may have been recruited for their potential as future prime ministerial candidates, but each accumulated the requisite political experience.

    Mackenzie King had served as labour minister under Wilfrid Laurier, and Pearson had been external affairs minister for nearly a decade. Pierre Trudeau’s rise to national prominence owed a large part to his provocative legislative reforms as Pearson’s attorney general.

    Carney, on the other hand, has never run for office nor made any public interjections into partisan conflicts.

    Special skill set

    Electoral politics requires a special skill set that, unless it comes naturally, can only be learned through experience. It requires a unique combination of policy aptitude, communication ability, emotional intelligence, coalition-building and raw instinct.

    Those qualities are honed with frequent exposure to voters, whether through stump speeches, stakeholder meetings or community barbecues. Carney simply does not have these experiences.

    And faced with an anti-incumbent mood, his administrative experience may be casting him not as an interesting outsider, but as a technocratic voice of the very economic, political and cultural elite who Canadians are upset with.

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

    – ref. Mark Carney might have the edge as potential Liberal leader, but still faces major obstacles – https://theconversation.com/mark-carney-might-have-the-edge-as-potential-liberal-leader-but-still-faces-major-obstacles-247979

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NEA President Becky Pringle responds to Trump’s harmful immigration actions

    Source: US National Education Union

    By: Miguel Gonzalez

    Published: January 21, 2025 Last Updated: January 27, 2025

    WASHINGTON – Immigration and the demonizing of immigrants was central to President Trump’s 2024 election campaign and since his re-election, he and his staff have aggressively pursued immigration enforcement but also to reshape the nation’s immigration laws. The proposals include promises to carry out the largest deportation program in American history, attempt to end birthright citizenship, and overturn a 13-year policy that has kept Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents from executing raids in “sensitive areas” such as K-12 public schools.

    Educators, students, and families are understandably concerned about the safety of their families and communities especially with an administration that calls children – students – criminals. Children exercising their right to attend public schools are not criminals and no one should demonize them for political gain.

    That is why the National Education Association, on behalf of its more than three million members, put together this NEA comprehensive immigration guide to help schools and communities prepare for the onslaught of immigration actions by the Trump administration.  

    NEA President Becky Pringle noted when issuing the guidance: 

    “As educators, we are united in supporting every student—no matter the language they speak or their place of birth – and ensuring they have access to safe, welcoming public schools. Tragically, for our nation, the incoming Trump administration is committed to a mass deportation agenda that will inflict irreversible harm on our students, their families and communities.     

    “As educators, we have accepted the sacred responsibility to protect students—every single student, regardless of their immigration status—and to protect families and communities. We have a professional and moral responsibility to keep our students safe, especially if, and when, Trump sends ICE into our communities. We remain committed to using the power and strength of the largest labor union in the country to ensure every public school is a safe space for every student, and to uphold the constitutionally protected right of all students to access a public education.”

    To that end, the guidance lays out information regarding immigration and schools, including information around enrollment issues, Plyler v. Doe, and Safe Zones resolutions, how educators can legally and safely engage in immigration advocacy, a FAQ around mass raids, a Know Your Rights guide around immigration enforcement, and an update on the DACA program.  

    The National Education Association is the nation’s largest professional employee organization, representing more than 3 million elementary and secondary teachers, higher education faculty, education support professionals, school administrators, retired educators, students preparing to become teachers, healthcare workers, and public employees. Learn more at www.nea.org

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NEA President Becky Pringle issues statement pertaining to the most recent attacks by the Trump administration on federal Diversity, Equity and Inclusion programs

    Source: US National Education Union

    By: Miguel Gonzalez

    Published: January 27, 2025 Last Updated: January 27, 2025

    NEA President Becky Pringle issued the following statement in response to these unprecedented and harmful actions.

    “Donald Trump and extreme politicians want to shut the door to equal educational opportunities for all children by attacking diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs on public college and university campuses and beyond. This is just the latest example of how these politicians seek to turn back the clock and ensure that students who speak a different language, who are first-generation Americans, or who go by a different pronoun are no longer welcome and supported. These unwarranted attacks on DEI will have a chilling effect on programs that provide equity and opportunity for all Americans.

    “The relentless assault on DEI supports and programs are the latest boogeyman for far-right politicians and their allies. They go hand in hand with their efforts to whitewash history, to ban books about important figures like Martin Luther King Jr. and Rosa Parks, and to silence the voices of educators who teach about uncomfortable truths in our schools. They are weaponizing the federal government to roll back civil rights protections that have been in place since the Lyndon B. Johnson administration.

    “Let’s not let politicians distract us from their failures to fully fund public education, and from addressing the important issues for parents and families such as keeping students safe from gun violence, providing adequate resources for their public schools, and fixing the educator shortage and pay issues, to name a few.  We know what’s at stake. That’s why we are coming together — parents, students, educators, and social justice advocates —to fight for all our students’ right to be seen and supported, and to have the resources they need to live into their brilliance.”

    ###

    The National Education Association is the nation’s largest professional employee organization, representing more than 3 million elementary and secondary teachers, higher education faculty, education support professionals, school administrators, retired educators, students preparing to become teachers, healthcare workers, and public employees. Learn more at www.nea.org

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Enoch — Enoch RCMP and EPS arrest male following a dog track

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    In the early hours of Jan. 12, 2025, the Enoch RCMP received a call to the River Cree Casino for a female reporting an assault by a male suspect who was known to her. Members arrived on scene, and while conducting their investigation, learned that the male suspect had fled the area on foot.

    In cooperation with Edmonton Police K9 Unit, a dog track led to the location and arrest of the male suspect. During the course of the arrest, the male was treated for injuries sustained from the police dog. The suspect was later medically cleared at a hospital and released into police custody.

    Consequently, a 61-year-old individual, a resident of Edmonton, was charged with the following offences:

    • Assault with a weapon;
    • Theft under $5,000;
    • Possession of methamphetamine.

    The individual was also found to be on a Canada-wide warrant for a parole violation at the time of his arrest.

    The individual was taken before a justice of the peace and remanded into custody. Their next court date is scheduled for Jan. 15, 2025, at the Alberta Court of Justice in Stony Plain, Alta.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Intermediate Capital Group plc: Notification of Major Holdings

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TR-1: Standard form for notification of major holdings

    1. Issuer Details
    ISIN
    GB00BYT1DJ19 
    Issuer Name
    INTERMEDIATE CAPITAL GROUP PLC
    UK or Non-UK Issuer
    UK
    2. Reason for Notification
    An acquisition or disposal of voting rights
    3. Details of person subject to the notification obligation
    Name
    BlackRock, Inc.
    City of registered office (if applicable)
    Wilmington
    Country of registered office (if applicable)
    USA
    4. Details of the shareholder
    Full name of shareholder(s) if different from the person(s) subject to the notification obligation, above

    City of registered office (if applicable)

    Country of registered office (if applicable)

    5. Date on which the threshold was crossed or reached
    24-Jan-2025
    6. Date on which Issuer notified
    27-Jan-2025
    7. Total positions of person(s) subject to the notification obligation

    . % of voting rights attached to shares (total of 8.A) % of voting rights through financial instruments (total of 8.B 1 + 8.B 2) Total of both in % (8.A + 8.B) Total number of voting rights held in issuer
    Resulting situation on the date on which threshold was crossed or reached 5.100000 0.290000 5.390000 15731231
    Position of previous notification (if applicable) 4.730000 0.380000 5.110000  

    8. Notified details of the resulting situation on the date on which the threshold was crossed or reached
    8A. Voting rights attached to shares

    Class/Type of shares ISIN code(if possible) Number of direct voting rights (DTR5.1) Number of indirect voting rights (DTR5.2.1) % of direct voting rights (DTR5.1) % of indirect voting rights (DTR5.2.1)
    GB00BYT1DJ19   14840260   5.100000
    Sub Total 8.A 14840260 5.100000%

    8B1. Financial Instruments according to (DTR5.3.1R.(1) (a))

    Type of financial instrument Expiration date Exercise/conversion period Number of voting rights that may be acquired if the instrument is exercised/converted % of voting rights
    Securities Lending     22727 0.000000
    Sub Total 8.B1   22727 0.000000%

    8B2. Financial Instruments with similar economic effect according to (DTR5.3.1R.(1) (b))

    Type of financial instrument Expiration date Exercise/conversion period Physical or cash settlement Number of voting rights % of voting rights
    CFD     Cash 868244 0.290000
    Sub Total 8.B2   868244 0.290000%

    9. Information in relation to the person subject to the notification obligation
    2. Full chain of controlled undertakings through which the voting rights and/or the financial instruments are effectively held starting with the ultimate controlling natural person or legal entities (please add additional rows as necessary)

    Ultimate controlling person Name of controlled undertaking % of voting rights if it equals or is higher than the notifiable threshold % of voting rights through financial instruments if it equals or is higher than the notifiable threshold Total of both if it equals or is higher than the notifiable threshold
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 1) BlackRock Finance, Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 1) Trident Merger, LLC      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 1) BlackRock Investment Management, LLC      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 2) BlackRock Finance, Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 2) BlackRock Holdco 2, Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 2) BlackRock Financial Management, Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 2) BlackRock International Holdings, Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 2) BR Jersey International Holdings L.P.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 2) BlackRock Holdco 3, LLC      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 2) BlackRock Cayman 1 LP      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 2) BlackRock Cayman West Bay Finco Limited      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 2) BlackRock Cayman West Bay IV Limited      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 2) BlackRock Group Limited      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 2) BlackRock Finance Europe Limited      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 2) BlackRock Investment Management (UK) Limited      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 3) BlackRock Finance, Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 3) BlackRock Holdco 2, Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 3) BlackRock Financial Management, Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 3) BlackRock International Holdings, Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 3) BR Jersey International Holdings L.P.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 3) BlackRock Australia Holdco Pty. Ltd.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 3) BlackRock Investment Management (Australia) Limited      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 4) BlackRock Finance, Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 4) BlackRock Holdco 2, Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 4) BlackRock Financial Management, Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 4) BlackRock Holdco 4, LLC      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 4) BlackRock Holdco 6, LLC      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 4) BlackRock Delaware Holdings Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 4) BlackRock Institutional Trust Company, National Association      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 5) BlackRock Finance, Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 5) BlackRock Holdco 2, Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 5) BlackRock Financial Management, Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 5) BlackRock Holdco 4, LLC      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 5) BlackRock Holdco 6, LLC      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 5) BlackRock Delaware Holdings Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 5) BlackRock Fund Advisors      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 6) BlackRock Finance, Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 6) BlackRock Holdco 2, Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 6) BlackRock Financial Management, Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 7) BlackRock Finance, Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 7) BlackRock Holdco 2, Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 7) BlackRock Financial Management, Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 7) BlackRock International Holdings, Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 7) BR Jersey International Holdings L.P.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 7) BlackRock (Singapore) Holdco Pte. Ltd.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 7) BlackRock HK Holdco Limited      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 7) BlackRock Asset Management North Asia Limited      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 8) BlackRock Finance, Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 8) BlackRock Holdco 2, Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 8) BlackRock Financial Management, Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 8) BlackRock International Holdings, Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 8) BR Jersey International Holdings L.P.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 8) BlackRock Holdco 3, LLC      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 8) BlackRock Cayman 1 LP      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 8) BlackRock Cayman West Bay Finco Limited      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 8) BlackRock Cayman West Bay IV Limited      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 8) BlackRock Group Limited      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 8) BlackRock Finance Europe Limited      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 8) BlackRock (Netherlands) B.V.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 8) BlackRock Asset Management Deutschland AG      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 9) BlackRock Finance, Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 9) BlackRock Holdco 2, Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 9) BlackRock Financial Management, Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 9) BlackRock International Holdings, Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 9) BlackRock Canada Holdings ULC      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 9) BlackRock Asset Management Canada Limited      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 10) BlackRock Finance, Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 10) BlackRock Holdco 2, Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 10) BlackRock Financial Management, Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 10) BlackRock International Holdings, Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 10) BR Jersey International Holdings L.P.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 10) BlackRock Holdco 3, LLC      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 10) BlackRock Cayman 1 LP      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 10) BlackRock Cayman West Bay Finco Limited      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 10) BlackRock Cayman West Bay IV Limited      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 10) BlackRock Group Limited      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 10) BlackRock Finance Europe Limited      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 10) BlackRock Advisors (UK) Limited      

    10. In case of proxy voting
    Name of the proxy holder

    The number and % of voting rights held

    The date until which the voting rights will be held

    11. Additional Information
    BlackRock Regulatory Threshold Reporting Team

    Jana Blumenstein

    020 7743 3650
    12. Date of Completion
    27th January 2025
    13. Place Of Completion
    12 Throgmorton Avenue, London, EC2N 2DL, U.K.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: EBC Financial Group Partners with Shakti Regeneration Institute to Empower Marginalised Communities and Promote Indigenous Conservation Efforts

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    RANAGHAT, India, Jan. 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — EBC Financial Group (EBC), a leading global financial brokerage, proudly announces its latest Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative through a strategic partnership with the Shakti Empowerment Education Foundation, part of the Shakti Regeneration Institute (SRI). This collaboration will support the Ramakrishna Vedanta Vidyapith school in West Bengal, India, providing 50 low-income students with access to essential educational materials, uniforms, vocational sewing classes, and extracurricular activities.

    Image copyright: Shakti Regeneration Institute

    This partnership forms part of EBC’s broader CSR strategy, which complements its role as a global financial brokerage, enabling access to global markets while promoting equitable education and sustainable development in communities where economic opportunities are limited.

    EBC Financial Group has supported the University of Oxford’s What Economists Really Do (WERD) public education series through the sponsorship of two episodes: The Economics of Tax Evasion in 2023 and Macroeconomics and Climate in November 2024. These episodes explore how economics can address significant societal issues and reflect EBC’s broader mission of empowering informed decision-making—a principle that also drives its global brokerage services, enabling individuals and institutions to confidently navigate financial markets. The WERD series is independently produced by the Department of Economics, showcasing its dedication to bridging academic research and real-world challenges.

    Together, these initiatives demonstrate EBC’s dedication to advancing educational access, promoting critical discourse, and addressing the interconnected challenges of socio-economic development and sustainability. Shifting focus to India, EBC’s partnership with SRI reinforces its mission to drive long-term societal change at the local level, equipping individuals with the tools to thrive and contribute to the development of their communities while promoting sustainable development at the grassroots level.

    In addition to this critical sponsorship, EBC’s leadership in global advocacy is reflected in its contributions to the upcoming documentary #TheRegenerationGeneration, an initiative of SRI directed by its founder, Indrani Pal-Chaudhuri. The film, which addresses the urgent need for regenerative finance and education, highlights the efforts of Nobel Prize-winners, innovators, business leaders, educators, and Indigenous leaders working together to protect vulnerable ecosystems and communities from the increasing threats of climate change. It also features interviews with David Barrett, CEO of EBC Financial Group (UK) Ltd., and Professor Teytelboym from the Department of Economics, Oxford University. EBC’s involvement across both social projects underscores its commitment to not only supporting local communities but also driving global awareness and action toward sustainable and equitable futures.

    Barrett expressed the strategic importance of this partnership: “At EBC, we recognise that the true power of education creates the foundation for transforming societies and creating pathways to lasting change. Our partnership with Shakti Regeneration Institute is more than a sponsorship—it reflects our dedication to uplifting the next generation, as we support the Ramakrishna Vedanta Vidyapith school in equipping marginalised children with the tools they need to thrive. Through our involvement in the #TheRegenerationGeneration 2025 documentary, we are amplifying the voices of Indigenous communities and supporting the preservation of their cultural and environmental heritage. Similarly, our collaboration with the University of Oxford’s Department of Economics on their WERD program underscores our dedication to enhancing global understanding of critical economic and societal issues. By investing in education at every level, we aim to create opportunities, promote equity, and address the challenges of our time. These efforts align seamlessly with our core values of integrity, responsibility, and sustainability.”

    Ajay Pal-Chaudhuri, Chairman and Founder of Shakti Regeneration Institute, remarked, “We are thrilled to announce our partnership with EBC Financial Group, a collaboration that embodies the convergence of corporate responsibility and global impact. Together, we embark on a transformative journey, combining our strengths in education and ecological advocacy to empower communities worldwide. With EBC’s support, we are not only empowering marginalised children through education but also raising global awareness about the critical challenges facing Indigenous communities and the plight of vulnerable ecosystems.”

    Foundational Values at the Heart of EBC’s Mission
    EBC’s commitment to making a meaningful difference aligns with its core values of dedication, responsibility, and integrity. By ensuring that financial resources are directed toward impactful projects, EBC exemplifies how corporate responsibility can foster real-world change, contributing to the welfare of communities and the preservation of ecosystems that sustain vulnerable populations. Operating under top-tier regulation, EBC combines its mission to equip investors with access to global markets such as currencies, indices, and commodities with impactful social investments that contribute to community welfare and sustainability.

    The Ramakrishna Vedanta Vidyapith school, which will celebrate the 25th anniversary of its founding in January 2025, has been a vital institution in the betterment of local communities in West Bengal. Through its educational programs, the school empowers children and women from marginalised backgrounds, helping them to break the cycle of poverty and contribute positively to their communities. EBC’s support enhances the school’s mission, helping to ensure that these children receive not only basic education but also vocational training and community-building opportunities that will prepare them for long-term success. More information about SRI and its mission can be found at www.shaktiregeneration.org.

    For more information about EBC’s causes and initiatives, please visit https://www.ebc.com/ESG.

    About EBC Financial Group
    Founded in the esteemed financial district of London, EBC Financial Group (EBC) is renowned for its services in financial brokerage and asset management. With offices strategically located in prominent financial centres such as London, Sydney, Hong Kong, Tokyo, Singapore, the Cayman Islands, Bangkok, Limassol, and more, EBC enables retail, professional, and institutional investors to access a wide range of global markets and trading opportunities, including currencies, commodities, shares, and indices.

    Recognised by multiple awards, EBC prides itself on adhering to leading levels of ethical standards and international regulation. EBC Financial Group’s subsidiaries are regulated and licensed in their local jurisdictions. EBC Financial Group (UK) Limited is regulated by the UK’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), EBC Financial Group (Cayman) Limited is regulated by the Cayman Islands Monetary Authority (CIMA), EBC Financial Group (Australia) Pty Ltd, and EBC Asset Management Pty Ltd are regulated by Australia’s Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC).

    At the core of EBC Group are seasoned professionals with over 30 years of profound experience in major financial institutions, having adeptly navigated through significant economic cycles from the Plaza Accord to the 2015 Swiss franc crisis. EBC champions a culture where integrity, respect, and client asset security are paramount, ensuring that every investor engagement is treated with the utmost seriousness it deserves.

    EBC is the Official Foreign Exchange Partner of FC Barcelona, offering specialised services in regions such as Asia, LATAM, the Middle East, Africa, and Oceania. EBC is also a partner of United to Beat Malaria, a campaign of the United Nations Foundation, aiming to improve global health outcomes. Starting February 2024, EBC supports the ‘What Economists Really Do’ public engagement series by Oxford University’s Department of Economics, demystifying economics, and its application to major societal challenges to enhance public understanding and dialogue.

    https://www.ebc.com/

    Media Contact:
    Savitha Ravindran
    Global Public Relations Manager (EMEA, LATAM)
    savitha.ravindran@ebc.com

    Chyna Elvina
    Global Public Relations Manager (APAC, LATAM)
    chyna.elvina@ebc.com

    Douglas Chew
    Global Public Relations Lead
    douglas.chew@ebc.com

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/94dc67e3-5efc-46bb-9e48-0cb8ff3bce80

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/7947de34-6137-46a2-b7e8-8183ecc273c4

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/a45a3118-2bc7-4f3b-af6b-c721195b1fef

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Promoting Alberta’s incredible wilderness in Germany

    Source: Government of Canada regional news (2)

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Saskatchewan Proclaims Family Literacy Week

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on January 27, 2025

    The Government of Saskatchewan, in collaboration with the Saskatchewan Literacy Network (SLN) and Family Literacy Hubs, is pleased to proclaim January 27, 2025, as Family Literacy Day and January 25 to 31, 2025, as Family Literacy Week. This annual initiative highlights the importance of literacy in everyday family life.

    “Family literacy is fundamental to developing strong language and communication skills in our children and helps increase the quality of life and success in education,” Education Minister Everett Hindley said. “This week provides an opportunity for families to explore the many ways literacy can be incorporated into daily activities.”

    In 2024-25, the government has allocated more than $1.1 million for literacy initiatives, which includes $593,000 to support family literacy programming for nine Family Literacy Hubs around the province. The hubs work to raise literacy levels by increasing public awareness of family literacy and developing sustainable and quality family literacy programs together with community organizations.

    In celebration of Family Literacy Week, the Government of Saskatchewan is pleased to support Family Literacy Hubs across the province with this year’s selected book, “Fox and Bear” by Saskatchewan author and artist Miriam Körner. The book follows fox and bear as they explore their connection to the forest, aligning with this year’s national theme for Literacy Week, “Learn to be Green, Together.”  

    Gravelbourg-based Collège Mathieu will again provide province-wide French language family literacy programming and resources related to the 2025 theme of “Apprendre à être vert, ensemble” using the book, “La mélodie des petits fruits” by author and artist Michaela Goade. The book portrays a girl and her grandmother gathering gifts from the earth. For more information, please contact Mamady Camara at Collège Mathieu at education.saskatoon@collegemathieu.sk.ca.

    Regional Family Literacy Hubs and their partners have also organized events during Family Literacy Week. To find the Hub in your area, please visit: www.saskatchewan.ca/residents/education-and-learning/literacy-in-saskatchewan.

    “Family Literacy Day and Family Literacy Week are wonderful reminders that learning happens everywhere: in the kitchen, at the park, or when sorting recycling,” SLN Executive Director Phaedra Hitchings said. “As families, we build skills and create special moments together when we create tasty recipes from leftovers, explore nature, or find new ways to reuse materials. This year’s theme is a fun way to connect literacy with our everyday eco-friendly choices.”

    Family Literacy Week activities are designed to encourage playful and age-appropriate learning. The Ministry of Education encourages families to participate and make literacy part of their everyday lives.

    More information about Family Literacy Day, family literacy resources and literacy initiatives in Saskatchewan can be found on the SLN website at www.saskliteracy.ca/familyliteracyday.

    -30-

    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: VA ends DEI, stops millions in spending on DEI

    Source: US Department of Veterans Affairs

    Skip to content

    WASHINGTON —The Department of Veterans Affairs announced today that it has completed its initial implementation of President Trump’s Executive Order to end DEI within the federal government.

    To date, VA has placed nearly 60 employees who had been solely focused on diversity, equity and inclusion activities on paid administrative leave. The combined annual salary (base pay, locality pay and additional earnings) of these employees totals more than $8 million, an average of more than $136,000/year per employee. One such employee is making more than $220,000 per year.

    Additionally, VA has identified several contracts for DEI-related trainings, materials and other consulting services, which the department is currently working to cancel. The combined value of these contracts totals more than $6.1 million.

    In the coming weeks and months, VA will be working to reallocate these resources to better support the Veterans, families, caregivers, and survivors the department exists to serve.

    VA is also in the process of taking down a variety of DEI-related media from its various digital properties.

    “Under President Trump, VA is laser-focused on providing the best possible care and benefits to Veterans, their families, caregivers, and survivors. We are proud to have abandoned the divisive DEI policies of the past and pivot back to VA’s core mission. We look forward to reallocating the millions of dollars the department was spending on DEI programs and personnel to better serve the men and women who have bravely served our nation,” said VA Director of Media Affairs Morgan Ackley.

    Reporters and media outlets with questions or comments should contact the Office of Media Relations at vapublicaffairs@va.gov

    Veterans with questions about their health care and benefits (including GI Bill). Questions, updates and documents can be submitted online.

    Contact us online through Ask VA

    Veterans can also use our chatbot to get information about VA benefits and services. The chatbot won’t connect you with a person, but it can show you where to go on VA.gov to find answers to some common questions.

    Learn about our chatbot and ask a question

    Subscribe today to receive these news releases in your inbox.

    Page load link

    Go to Top

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Premier’s statement on International Holocaust Remembrance Day

    Premier David Eby has issued the following statement marking International Holocaust Remembrance Day:

    “On this sombre day, we honour the memory of the more than six million Jews murdered during the Holocaust. We remember the many others persecuted by the Nazis because of their race, creed, religion, politics, sexual identity and perceived disability. This day is also a time to honour survivors and the people killed who were trying to defend those targeted by this poisonous ideology.

    “Today marks the 80th anniversary of the liberation of the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp, an event that showed a disbelieving world the monstrosity of mass murder, systemic starvation and other horrors inflicted on Jews across Europe.

    “The number of survivors and witnesses lessens with each passing year, making it ever more important to listen to and learn from those who know too well what it means to confront evil. What must never be lost in the dizzying number is that each was an individual life cruelly extinguished.

    “Our government is working with the Jewish community in British Columbia to ensure all high school students in the province learn about the Holocaust as part of their education about injustices and discriminatory practices in Canada and around the world.

    “The terrorist attacks that killed more than 1,200 Israeli citizens in 2023 has been followed by a global increase in antisemitic acts, including here in our province. We must always confront and oppose such acts if we are to fulfil the solemn pledge of ‘Never again.’ Today and every day, we stand with the Jewish community.”

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Budd, Lummis Reintroduce Bill to Streamline Federal Permitting Process

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ted Budd (R-North Carolina)
    Washington, D.C. — Senators Ted Budd (R-NC) and Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) have reintroduced the Full Responsibility and Expedited Enforcement (FREE) Act.
    The legislation would introduce a ‘permit by rule’ system to the federal permitting process, which would allow an applicant to certify compliance with pre-established criteria to obtain a permit. 
    This approach allows permits to be automatically approved unless the agency identifies that an applicant had not made proper certifications within a specified period of time.
    Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Rick Scott (R-FL) and Tim Sheehy (R-MT) also co-sponsored the legislation. 
    Representative Celeste Maloy (R-UT) introduced the companion bill in the U.S. House of Representatives.
    Senator Budd said in a statement:
    “All too often, the federal permitting process is slow, expensive, and confusing. That is why President Trump directed federal agencies to consider a ‘permit by rule’ system in his day one Unleashing American Energy Executive Order. Now Congress should make this policy permanent to reduce bureaucratic delays and compliance costs, and create a transparent and predictable regulatory environment. I’m proud to partner with Senator Lummis and Representative Maloy in this effort to implement a ‘permit by rule’ system to federal permitting.”
    Senator Lummis said:
    “Under four years of the Biden administration’s failed leadership, our permitting process is woefully backlogged and incredibly difficult to navigate. The federal permitting process has become years-long, which discourages investment and innovation all together. Implementing permit by rule processes will streamline approvals and help us address backlogs.”
    Background:
    The FREE Act:
    Requires each agency to evaluate their current permitting systems and consider the feasibility of replacing them with a permit by rule system.
    Mandates agencies to submit a detailed report to Congress within 180 days, outlining each permit issued, the requirements for obtaining them, and an evaluation of whether a permit by rule could replace the current system.
    Establishes a permit by rule application process within 12 months of submitting the report, specifying written requirements and substantive standards for permits.
    Automatically approves permits if the application meets all required certifications and no objections are raised within 30 days.
    Allows agencies to audit applications and enforce compliance with substantive standards, including denying or halting permits if standards are not met.
    Enables applicants to appeal denied or halted permits in district court, with provisions favoring applicants who made a good faith effort to comply.
    Prohibits agencies from entering settlement agreements that would undermine the enforcement of the FREE Act.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Ted Budd Joins Intelligence Committee

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ted Budd (R-North Carolina)
    Washington, D.C. — Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD) has named Senator Ted Budd (R-NC) to serve on the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, filling the seat previously held by now-Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
    During the 119th Congress, Senator Budd will also serve on the Armed Services Committee, Commerce Committee, Small Business Committee, and the Joint Economic Committee.
    Sen. Budd said in a statement:
    “I am truly honored to serve on the Senate Intelligence Committee. The United States faces a complex global threat environment. Every day around the world, our intelligence community professionals risk their lives to collect foreign intelligence critical to our national security. At the same time, Americans are rightly concerned about abuses by, and politicization of, intelligence agencies. I am ready to join Chairman Cotton and my colleagues to ensure the intelligence community is focused on providing objective analysis to decision-makers, while protecting the privacy and civil liberties of Americans enshrined in our Constitution.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK applies fresh sanctions following sham election in Belarus

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    The UK has sanctioned 9 individuals and defence sector entities in Belarus in coordination with Canada.

    • UK sanctions 6 individuals and 3 entities in coordinated action with alongside Canada, in an immediate response to rigged presidential election in Belarus.
    • Sanctions target leaders of institutions responsible for serious human rights violations and companies in the Belarusian defence sector supporting Russia’s war in Ukraine.
    • Action demonstrates Government’s commitment to working internationally to deter threats and protect national security, a foundation in the government’s Plan for Change.

    The Chairman of the Belarusian Central Election Commission is among 9 individuals and entities designated by the UK today (Monday 27 January) in a fresh wave of sanctions in response to yesterday’s sham election in Belarus.

    Following Lukashenko’s brutal crackdown in which critical voices within Belarus have been silenced, yesterday’s sham election failed to meet international standards and has been condemned by international partners .

    Alongside sanctioning leaders of institutions responsible for serious human rights violations in the country, the UK has excluded Belarusian defence companies from the UK economy– a sector of strategic importance to Lukashenko’s regime which is helping to facilitate Russia’s war in Ukraine.

    Working with international partners to protect UK national security is essential to deliver the foundations of the Prime Minister’s Plan for Change.

    Foreign Secretary David Lammy said:

    The world has become well-accustomed to Lukashenko’s cynical pretence of democracy in Belarus, while in reality he brutally represses civil society and opposition voices to strengthen his grip on power.

    The UK, alongside our partners, will continue to stand by the people of Belarus and expose those who deny them their legitimate right to freedom and democracy.

    According to the Viasna Human Rights Centre, a Belarusian non-governmental organisation in exile, over 1250 political prisoners are incarcerated in Belarus, including civil society representatives, human rights defenders, journalists, political opponents, religious leaders,  and trade unionists. Many political prisoners are held in shocking conditions, facing isolation, mistreatment and a lack of medical care.

    Today’s designations include Heads of ‘GUBOPiK’; one of the main security forces responsible for political persecution in Belarus. Individuals sanctioned today are:

    1. Igor Vasilyevich KARPENKO – Chairman of the Belarusian Central Election Commission.
    2. Viktor Alexandrovich DUBROVKA – Head of the Belarusian correctional institution Penal Colony No11, Vaukavysk
    3. Pavel Ivanovich KAZAKOV – Head of the Belarusian correctional institution Prison No 1, Hrodno.
    4. Andrey Mikhailovich TSEDRIK – Commanding Officer of Pre-trial Detention Centre (SIZO) No 1, Minsk.
    5. Andrei Valerievich ANANENKO – Head of GUBOPiK.
    6. Mikhail Petrovitch BEDUNKEVICH – Deputy Head of GUBOPiK.

    Belarus has provided support for Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine, allowing the use of its territory and airspace to launch attacks and provided kit and logistical support.

    The three entities from Belarus’ defence sector sanctioned today are:

    1. ALEVKURP OJSC – a company affiliated to the Government of Belarus specialising in research and development and manufacturing of radar systems and weapon control systems.
    2. Legmash Plant JSC – a Belarusian company producing ammunition for the Belarusian defence sector.
    3. KB Unmanned Helicopters (UAVHeli) – a Belarusian unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) developer and manufacturer.

    Media enquiries

    Email newsdesk@fcdo.gov.uk

    Telephone 020 7008 3100

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

    Updates to this page

    Published 27 January 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: 2 Days Left To Apply for FEMA Assistance Following Hurricane Helene in South Carolina

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: 2 Days Left To Apply for FEMA Assistance Following Hurricane Helene in South Carolina

    2 Days Left To Apply for FEMA Assistance Following Hurricane Helene in South Carolina

    COLUMBIA, S.C. – FEMA is encouraging South Carolinians affected by Hurricane Helene to apply for federal disaster assistance as soon as possible. The deadline to apply is Jan. 28, just two days away.If you sustained losses or damage from Hurricane Helene, you should register for assistance even if you have insurance. FEMA cannot duplicate insurance payments, but underinsured applicants may receive help after their claims have been settled.Homeowners and renters in Abbeville, Aiken, Allendale, Anderson, Bamberg, Barnwell, Beaufort, Cherokee, Chester, Edgefield, Fairfield, Greenville, Greenwood, Hampton, Jasper, Kershaw, Laurens, Lexington, McCormick, Newberry, Oconee, Orangeburg, Pickens, Richland, Saluda, Spartanburg, Union and York counties and the Catawba Indian Nation can apply for federal assistance.The quickest way to apply is to go online to DisasterAssistance.gov. You can also visit a Disaster Recovery Center, or apply using the FEMA App for mobile devices or by calling toll-free 800-621-3362. The telephone line is open every day, and the help is available in many 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. For a video with American Sign Language, voiceover and open captions about how to apply for FEMA assistance, select this link.FEMA programs are accessible to survivors with disabilities and others with access and functional needs. 
    martyce.allenjr
    Mon, 01/27/2025 – 14:02

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Bybit Introduces Blockchain-Powered Payment Solution in Brazil with PIX Compatibility

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, Jan. 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

    Bybit, the world’s second-largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, has launched Bybit Pay in Brazil, introducing a cutting-edge payment solution that integrates seamlessly with PIX, the country’s leading instant payment system. The launch underscores Bybit’s commitment to bridging Web2 and Web3 payments and providing a streamlined way for users to transact in both fiat and cryptocurrency. Wherever there is PIX, Bybit Pay can be used.

    Bybit Pay: Redefining Digital Transactions
    Bybit Pay allows users to connect their crypto wallets to a variety of financial possibilities, supporting both fiat and cryptocurrency. The platform simplifies transactions across websites, mobile applications, and point-of-sale (POS) systems, offering an intuitive interface for deposits, withdrawals, and payments. Its launch in Brazil aligns with the country’s growing adoption of digital finance technologies.

    Joan Han, Sales and Marketing Director at Bybit, highlighted the significance of the launch: “Bybit Pay is designed to bridge traditional and digital payments effortlessly. Brazil’s forward-thinking adoption of digital finance makes it the ideal market for this launch. By leveraging PIX QR codes and multi-currency support, Bybit Pay offers a seamless, secure, and flexible solution tailored to the evolving needs of our users.”

    Currently, Bybit Pay is available to verified users in Brazil through the Bybit app and website. The platform supports payments in Brazilian reais (BRL) and leading cryptocurrencies, including USDT, USDC, BTC, and ETH.

    Key Features and Benefits of Bybit Pay

    • PIX QR Code Compatibility

    Bybit Pay integrates with PIX, allowing users to scan QR codes to complete payments in fiat or cryptocurrency. This functionality offers a convenient and familiar experience for Brazilian users.

    • Integrated Wallet Management

    The platform combines crypto and fiat wallet functionality, enabling users to manage funds seamlessly across both financial systems.

    • Multi-Currency Support

    Bybit Pay supports a range of currencies, including BRL and popular cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), and Tether (USDT).

    • Blockchain-Backed Security

    Bybit Pay ensures secure, tamper-proof transactions through blockchain encryption, maintaining user privacy and transparency.

    • Benefits for Merchants

    Merchants gain the ability to accept payments from Bybit’s global user base of over 60 million, broadening their customer reach and providing an integrated fiat-crypto payment experience.

    Welcome Promotion: Cashback Opportunity for Brazilian Users
    To celebrate the launch, Bybit is offering a promotional campaign that rewards early adopters.

    • Event Period: January 27 – February 28, 2025
    • Eligibility: Users who deposit an equivalent of $100 or more and complete a payment by scanning a PIX QR code.

    Each week, 100 participants will be randomly selected to receive 100 percent cashback in USDT, capped at the BRL equivalent of 100 USDT per user.

    Winner Quotas (Weekly):

    • Payments of $5 – $10: 50 winners
    • Payments of $11 – $50: 30 winners
    • Payments of $51 – $100: 20 winners

    Transforming Digital Payments in Brazil
    Bybit Pay’s integration with PIX, alongside its multi-currency support and blockchain-powered security, positions the platform as a transformative solution in Brazil’s digital payment landscape. The launch represents a significant step forward in Bybit’s mission to enhance global payment systems and provide secure, flexible solutions for users and merchants.

    #Bybit / #BybitPay /#TheCryptoArk

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

    For more details about Bybit, please visit Bybit Press 
    For media inquiries, please contact: media@bybit.com
    For updates, please follow: Bybit’s Communities and Social Media

    Contact

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

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/8d2640d1-8542-442b-93a8-058da17e062d

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: BexBack Unveils Double Deposit Bonus, $50 Welcome Bonus, and 100x Leverage Crypto Trading with No KYC

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, Jan. 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — As Bitcoin hovers around the $100,000 mark, analysts predict prolonged market volatility, making cryptocurrency derivatives trading the preferred choice for traders seeking to profit from both upward and downward trends. To empower traders and maximize their potential, BexBack Exchange has introduced an exclusive package featuring a 100% deposit bonus, a $50 welcome bonus for new users, and 100x leverage for cryptocurrency trading—all with a No KYC policy, ensuring privacy and seamless trading.

    How Does 100x Leverage Work?

    100x leverage enables traders to control larger positions with minimal capital investment. For example:

    • Suppose Bitcoin is priced at $100,000, and you open a long contract with 1 BTC. Using 100x leverage, you control a position worth 100 BTC.
    • If the price rises to $105,000, your profit will be:
      (105,000−100,000)×100BTC÷100,000=5BTC That’s a 500% return on your initial investment.

    With BexBack’s 100% deposit bonus, your trading power doubles, giving you the ability to amplify profits even further.

    How the 100% Deposit Bonus Works

    BexBack’s deposit bonus is designed to boost your trading potential. While it cannot be withdrawn directly, the bonus:

    1. Increases Margin Capacity – Use the bonus to open larger positions and enhance your profit potential.
    2. Provides Risk Protection – During significant market fluctuations, the bonus serves as extra margin, reducing liquidation risks.

    For example, depositing 1 BTC unlocks an additional 1 BTC in bonus funds, doubling your margin.

    Why Choose BexBack?

    • No KYC Required: Trade with just an email address—simple and private.
    • 100% Deposit Bonus: Double your trading funds instantly.
    • $50 Welcome Bonus: Earn $50 after completing your first trade.
    • High Leverage: Up to 100x leverage to maximize capital efficiency.
    • Demo Account: Practice risk-free with 10 BTC in virtual funds.
    • Transparent Fees: No slippage, no spreads, and clear fee structures.
    • 24/7 Global Support: Dedicated multilingual customer service anytime, anywhere.
    • Affiliate Rewards: Earn up to 50% commission with no limits on duration or earnings.

    About BexBack

    BexBack is a premier cryptocurrency derivatives platform offering 100x leverage on BTC, ETH, ADA, SOL, and XRP futures contracts. Headquartered in Singapore with offices in Hong Kong, Japan, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Argentina, BexBack operates under a US MSB (Money Services Business) license. The platform is trusted by over 200,000 traders worldwide, including users in the US, Canada, and Europe.

    Don’t Miss Out—Start Trading Today!

    If you’re looking to capitalize on Bitcoin’s historic price levels and market volatility, BexBack is the platform for you. With 100x leverage, unbeatable bonuses, and a focus on privacy, BexBack sets you up for success in the dynamic world of cryptocurrency trading.

    Sign up now to claim your exclusive bonuses and start building your crypto portfolio.

    Website: www.bexback.com

    Contact: business@bexback.com

    Contact:
    Amanda
    business@bexback.com

    Disclaimer: This content is provided by BexBack. The statements, views and opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the content provider. The information provided in this press release is not a solicitation for investment, nor is it intended as investment advice, financial advice, or trading advice. It is strongly recommended you practice due diligence, including consultation with a professional financial advisor, before investing in or trading cryptocurrency and securities. Please conduct your own research and invest at your own risk.

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/ed72ce34-c448-429b-baf5-afdbccee1640

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/b63bbbd5-050a-4972-9308-fa38c4b98ca8

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/8fe9b4af-bef7-450b-8933-9d7096274920

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/a1ccb133-7ea0-4960-a4b2-f127cce10ea8

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/9778b6a3-46d2-49b8-a574-adb73a41cd4f

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Belarus Presidential Election: Joint Statement, January 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Australia, Canada, the EU, New Zealand and the UK have released a joint statement following Belarus’ sham presidential elections on 26 January 2025.

    Joint statement from the Commonwealth of Australia, Canada, The European Union, New Zealand, and The United Kingdom of Great Britain & Northern Ireland:

    We are united in our condemnation of the sham presidential elections in Belarus on 26 January and the ongoing human rights violations perpetrated by the Belarusian regime. Recently announced sanctions represent a coordinated, multilateral effort to hold the Lukashenko regime to account.

    No election can be considered free, fair or in line with international standards when it is held in a climate of ongoing repression, marked by a clampdown on civil society, arbitrary detentions, and restrictions on genuine political participation. The regime’s decision to invite the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe / Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights to observe only 10 days before the elections prevented ODIHR’s access to key stages of the election process. These actions are at odds with Belarus’ international commitments and demonstrate a clear desire to avoid transparency in the electoral process.

    We condemn the ongoing appalling human rights violations committed by the Lukashenko regime and call on them to release the over 1,250 political prisoners who remain unjustly detained. We urge Belarus to follow its international human rights obligations and OSCE commitments in all respects, including restoring an open civil society, to create an environment in which new elections which meet international standards can be held. We stand with the Belarusian people and recognise their right to determine their own future in a genuinely free and fair manner, without fear, oppression or external interference.

    We will continue to support the aspirations of the Belarusian people for a free, democratic and independent Belarus.

    Updates to this page

    Published 27 January 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: 3 Days Left To Apply for FEMA Assistance Following Hurricane Helene in South Carolina

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency 2

    strong>COLUMBIA, S.C. – FEMA is encouraging South Carolinians affected by Hurricane Helene to apply for federal disaster assistance as soon as possible. The deadline to apply is Jan. 28, just three days away.
    If you sustained losses or damage from Hurricane Helene, you should register for assistance even if you have insurance. FEMA cannot duplicate insurance payments, but underinsured applicants may receive help after their claims have been settled.
    Homeowners and renters in Abbeville, Aiken, Allendale, Anderson, Bamberg, Barnwell, Beaufort, Cherokee, Chester, Edgefield, Fairfield, Greenville, Greenwood, Hampton, Jasper, Kershaw, Laurens, Lexington, McCormick, Newberry, Oconee, Orangeburg, Pickens, Richland, Saluda, Spartanburg, Union and York counties and the Catawba Indian Nation can apply for federal assistance.
    The quickest way to apply is to go online to DisasterAssistance.gov. You can also visit a Disaster Recovery Center, or apply using the FEMA App for mobile devices or by calling toll-free 800-621-3362. The telephone line is open every day, and the help is available in many 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. For a video with American Sign Language, voiceover and open captions about how to apply for FEMA assistance, select this link.
    FEMA programs are accessible to survivors with disabilities and others with access and functional needs. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: 1 Day Left To Apply for FEMA Assistance Following Hurricane Helene in South Carolina

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency 2

    strong>COLUMBIA, S.C. – FEMA is encouraging South Carolinians affected by Hurricane Helene to apply for federal disaster assistance as soon as possible. The deadline to apply is Jan. 28, just one day away.
    If you sustained losses or damage from Hurricane Helene, you should register for assistance even if you have insurance. FEMA cannot duplicate insurance payments, but underinsured applicants may receive help after their claims have been settled.
    Homeowners and renters in Abbeville, Aiken, Allendale, Anderson, Bamberg, Barnwell, Beaufort, Cherokee, Chester, Edgefield, Fairfield, Greenville, Greenwood, Hampton, Jasper, Kershaw, Laurens, Lexington, McCormick, Newberry, Oconee, Orangeburg, Pickens, Richland, Saluda, Spartanburg, Union and York counties and the Catawba Indian Nation can apply for federal assistance.
    The quickest way to apply is to go online to DisasterAssistance.gov. You can also visit a Disaster Recovery Center, or apply using the FEMA App for mobile devices or by calling toll-free 800-621-3362. The telephone line is open every day, and the help is available in many 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. For a video with American Sign Language, voiceover and open captions about how to apply for FEMA assistance, select this link.
    FEMA programs are accessible to survivors with disabilities and others with access and functional needs. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Pacvue Rolls Out Amazon DSP Management and Optimization Tools to LATAM, EMEA and APAC

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LOS ANGELES, Jan. 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Pacvue, the leading commerce acceleration platform that integrates retail media, commerce management and measurement, today announced expanded access to its full range of Amazon DSP capabilities beyond North America, bringing Pacvue’s intelligent automation, reporting and optimization solutions to 16 countries across LATAM, EMEA and APAC. Through Pacvue, brands in these regions now have self-serve access to a full suite of programmatic media solutions to elevate their growth strategies. 

    “Our partners around the globe have been eagerly awaiting access to Amazon DSP tools, so we’re excited to be among the first platforms to unlock these new capabilities for them,” said Melissa Burdick, president and co-founder at Pacvue. “Access to Amazon DSP tools brings greater capabilities and reach for advertisers in these regions, as well as opportunities for growth from a wider variety of ad types, channels and audiences.”

    Pacvue is an early adopter of the Amazon DSP Campaign Management API’s global expansion. Previously, Pacvue’s Amazon DSP customers outside North America only had access to reporting capabilities. Now, advertisers in these regions are able to leverage the Pacvue platform to reach Amazon Ads audiences via Amazon DSP. This expansion includes campaign creation and management, budget, bid and dayparting automation controls.

    “The synergy between Amazon DSP, Amazon Search and Pacvue’s intelligent platform has transformed how we are able to measure success on a global scale for Crucial, Micron’s only consumer brand,” said Becky Durbin, VP Marketplaces at Labelium. “By combining our Amazon targeting strategy with Pacvue’s advanced optimization and reporting tools, we successfully activated new AMC audiences, drove campaign efficiencies and delivered impactful, full-funnel measurement across multiple markets.”

    Pacvue announced the following features for customers in expanded regions:

    • Amazon sponsored ads & Amazon DSP combined dashboard
    • AMC audience creation that enables seamless transitions from insights to action via Amazon DSP campaigns
    • Automation tools like dayparting, allowing for precise optimizations throughout the day
    • Automated budget management that controls monthly and daily spend without manual oversight
    • Advanced reporting and analytics powered by Amazon Ads performance data and Pacvue’s industry-leading tech

    Countries where Pacvue’s full Amazon DSP platform will now be available:

    • North America: United States, Canada and Mexico
    • EMEA: Germany, Spain, France, Italy, Netherlands, Poland, Sweden, Turkey, United Kingdom, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates
    • LATAM: Brazil 
    • APAC: Australia, India, Japan, Singapore

    In addition to the expansion of Amazon DSP campaign management tools, Pacvue is also an official Amazon DSP Reseller. As a reseller, Pacvue offers businesses access to Amazon DSP capabilities, empowering advertisers with the tools and support needed to maximize their digital advertising impact.

    Visit Pacvue.com to learn about its latest commerce solutions and recent company developments.

    About Pacvue:
    Pacvue is the leading commerce acceleration platform that integrates retail media, commerce management, and measurement. The company’s first-to-market platform drives incrementality, profitability and market share for brands, while turning insights into actionable recommendations. Backed by a global team of experts, Pacvue works with over 70,000 brands and agencies across 95+ retailers worldwide including Amazon, Walmart, Target and Instacart. With the incorporation of Pacvue’s enterprise solution with Helium 10 for SMBs, Pacvue is now the most comprehensive commerce and retail media platform available in the market. Founded in 2018, their global presence includes locations in Seattle, New York, Los Angeles, Washington DC, London, Shanghai and Tokyo. For more information, visit www.pacvue.com.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Voxtur Terminates Definitive Agreement with University Bancorp

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO and TAMPA, Fla., Jan. 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Voxtur Analytics Corp. (TSXV: VXTR; OTCQB: VXTRF), a technology company creating a more transparent and accessible real estate lending ecosystem, today announced the termination of the definitive agreement dated Friday July 26, 2024, with University Bancorp, Inc. (“University”) for the acquisition of 50.5% stake in Blue Water Financial Technologies Holding Company, LLC, an indirect subsidiary of Voxtur (“Blue Water”).

    About Voxtur

    Voxtur is a transformational real estate technology company that is redefining industry standards in a dynamic lending environment. The Company offers targeted data analytics to simplify tax solutions, property valuation and settlement services throughout the lending lifecycle for investors, lenders, government agencies and servicers. Voxtur’s proprietary data hub and workflow platforms more accurately and efficiently value assets, originate and service loans, securitize portfolios and evaluate tax assessments. The Company serves the property lending and property tax sectors, both public and private, in the United States and Canada. For more information, visit www.voxtur.com.

    Forward-Looking Information

    This news release contains certain forward-looking statements and forward-looking information (collectively, “forward-looking information”) which reflect the expectations of management regarding the Company’s strategic initiatives, plans, business prospects, and opportunities. Forward-looking statements should not be read as guarantees of future events, performance or results, and give rise to the possibility that management’s predictions, forecasts, projections, expectations, or conclusions will not prove to be accurate, that the assumptions may not be correct and that the Company’s future growth, financial performance and objectives and the Company’s strategic initiatives, plans, business prospects and opportunities, will not occur or be achieved. Any information contained herein that is not based on historical facts may be deemed to constitute forward-looking information within the meaning of Canadian and United States securities laws. Forward-looking information may be based on expectations, estimates and projections as at the date of this news release, and may be identified by the words “may”, “would”, “could”, “should”, “will”, “intend”, “plan”, “anticipate”, “believe”, “estimate”, “expect” or similar expressions. Forward-looking information may include but is not limited to: the effects of unexpected costs, liabilities or delays; success of software activities; the competition for skilled personnel; expectations for other economic, business, environmental, regulatory and/or competitive factors related to the Company, or the real estate industry generally; anticipated future production costs; and other events or conditions that may occur in the future. Investors are cautioned that forward-looking information is not based on historical facts but instead reflects estimates or projections concerning future results or events based on the opinions, assumptions and estimates of management considered reasonable at the date the information is provided. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking information are reasonable, such information involves risks and uncertainties, and undue reliance should not be placed on such information, as unknown or unpredictable factors could have material adverse effects on future results, performance, or achievements of the Company. Among the key factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking information include but are not limited to: implementation of new products; changing global financial conditions; reliance on specific key employees and customers to maintain business operations; competition within the Company’s industry; a risk in technological failure, failure to implement technological upgrades, or failure to implement new technological products in accordance with expected timelines; changing market conditions; failure of governing agencies and regulatory bodies to approve the use of products and services developed by the Company; the Company’s dependence on maintaining intellectual property and protecting newly developed intellectual property; operating losses and negative cash flows; and currency fluctuations. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information contained herein.

    This forward-looking information is provided as of the date of this news release and, accordingly, is subject to change after such date. The Company does not assume any obligation to update or revise this information to reflect new events or circumstances except as required in accordance with applicable laws.

    NEITHER THE TSXV NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN THE POLICIES OF THE TSXV) ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE.

    Voxtur’s common shares are traded on the TSXV under the symbol VXTR and in the US on the OTCQB under the symbol VXTRF.

    Voxtur Contact:
    Jordan Ross
    Chief Operating Officer
    Tel: (416) 708-9764
    Email: jordan@voxtur.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kaine Statement on Pete Hegseth’s Confirmation as Secretary of Defense

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Virginia Tim Kaine

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement regarding Pete Hegseth’s confirmation as Secretary of Defense:

    “I’m shocked but not surprised at the willingness of GOP members to confirm a nominee who has been called out by so many (including his own mother) for egregious and disqualifying misconduct. Trump wanted to see if any had a gag reflex. He has his answer.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Statement by the Prime Minister on International Holocaust Remembrance Day

    Source: Government of Canada – Prime Minister

    The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on International Holocaust Remembrance Day:

    “Eighty years ago today, the Auschwitz Birkenau German Nazi Concentration and Extermination Camp was liberated. Within its confines, over one million Jewish people had been barbarically murdered. As the largest camp under Hitler’s regime, it became one of the most important symbols of the Holocaust.

    “Let me be unequivocally clear – the Holocaust was one of the darkest chapters of human history. The Nazi regime systemically and senselessly murdered six million Jewish people, accounting for two thirds of the Jewish population in Europe. They killed millions of others, including 500,000 Roma and Sinti peoples, political opponents, 2SLGBTQI+ people, and people with disabilities. They executed a genocide of unconscionable inhumanity and evil.

    “The pain inflicted onto Holocaust survivors is still felt to this day. We can never bring back the six million Jewish lives lost during the Holocaust. We can never reunite the families torn apart forever. We can never finish the stories left incomplete. But we can remember. We can and must remind ourselves and each other of our obligation to stop this from ever happening again.

    “Over the past 15 months, in the wake of Hamas’ horrifying attack against Israel and with the rise in antisemitism, Jewish people in Canada and across the world have felt unsafe in their communities, workplaces, and places of worship. This is unacceptable, and we are doubling down on our commitment to combat antisemitism and hate: With the Canada Community Security Program to enhance security at community spaces at risk of hate-motivated crimes. With new investments in Canada’s Anti-Racism Strategy 2024-2028 and Canada’s Action Plan on Combatting Hate. With the efforts of our Special Envoy on Preserving Holocaust Remembrance and Combatting Antisemitism, Deborah Lyons, including the launch of the Canadian Handbook on the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) Working Definition of Antisemitism last fall. With a National Forum on Combatting Antisemitism being held in March. And later today, we will be announcing a new set of projects funded under the National Holocaust Remembrance Program, with more to come, to help Canadians better understand the Holocaust and the ways antisemitism still affects us today.

    “As social media and those who control its platforms seek to distort the horrors of the Holocaust and platform Holocaust denialism, it is now more important than ever to remember. To remember the hate and the cruelty. To remember, listen, and re-tell the stories of survivors while they’re still with us. To remember those who risked and gave their lives to save countless others. To remember our solemn vow: Never forget. Never again.”

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI: Ninepoint Partners LP Launches Two New Series of Ninepoint Global Infrastructure Fund and Announces Termination of Ninepoint Carbon Credit ETF

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, Jan. 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Ninepoint Partners LP (Ninepoint Partners) is pleased to announce the launch of two new series of Ninepoint Global Infrastructure Fund, being Series T and Series FT. As of January 16, 2025, Ninepoint Global Infrastructure Fund is now available in Series A, Series F, Series T, Series FT, Series I and Series D securities.

    The investment objective of Ninepoint Global Infrastructure Fund is primarily to maximize risk adjusted long-term returns and secondarily to achieve a high level of income. Ninepoint Global Infrastructure Fund focuses on achieving growth of capital through securities selection and pursues a long-term investment program with the aim of generating capital gains and seeks to provide a moderate level of volatility and a low degree of correlation to other asset classes through diversifying across a relatively concentrated group of global infrastructure stocks.

    “The Series T and Series FT are designed to provide investors with a greater amount of cash flow compared to other available series, making them an attractive option for those seeking a reliable source of investment income,” commented Jeff Sayer, Vice President & Portfolio Manager, Ninepoint Partners. “With a target annualized distribution of 6.0%, paid monthly, these series’ distributions are comprised of return of capital, net income, and capital gains, delivering a consistent income stream.”

    Ninepoint Partners also announced today it intends to terminate Ninepoint Carbon Credit ETF effective on or about March 28, 2025 (the Termination Date). Effective immediately, Ninepoint Carbon Credit ETF is closed to new purchases, however, investors can continue to trade ETF series units on Cboe Canada until they are delisted. Investors may also redeem or switch their mutual fund series units of Ninepoint Carbon Credit ETF up to the close of business on the Termination Date. Ninepoint Partners will waive any short-term trading fees for redemptions of units of Ninepoint Carbon Credit ETF prior to the Termination Date. Investors that still hold units of Ninepoint Carbon Credit ETF on the Termination Date will receive a cash payment for their units equal to the proportionate share of all property and assets of Ninepoint Carbon Credit ETF attributable to the applicable series of Ninepoint Carbon Credit ETF, which is expected to be the series net asset value per unit on the Termination Date multiplied by the number of units held.

    Ninepoint Partners will send a notice to each investor in Ninepoint Carbon Credit ETF regarding the termination. The ETF series units of Ninepoint Carbon Credit ETF are expected to be delisted from Cboe Canada, at the request of Ninepoint Partners, at the close of business on or about March 26, 2025. As Ninepoint Carbon Credit ETF prepares to terminate, it may no longer be fully invested in accordance with its stated investment objectives outlined in the simplified prospectus.

    About Ninepoint Partners LP

    Based in Toronto, Ninepoint Partners LP is one of Canada’s leading alternative investment management firms overseeing approximately $7 billion in assets under management and institutional contracts. Committed to helping investors explore innovative investment solutions that have the potential to enhance returns and manage portfolio risk, Ninepoint offers a diverse set of alternative strategies spanning Equities, Fixed Income, Alternative Income, Real Assets, F/X and Digital Assets.

    For more information on Ninepoint Partners LP, please visit www.ninepoint.com or please contact us at (416) 943-6707 or (866) 299-9906 or invest@ninepoint.com.

    Commissions, trailing commissions, management fees and expenses all may be associated with mutual fund investments. Please read the Prospectus before investing. Mutual fund securities are not covered by the Canada Deposit Insurance Corporation or by any other government deposit insurer. There can be no assurances that the Fund will be able to maintain its NAV per security at a constant amount or that the full amount of your investment in the Fund will be returned to you. Past performance may not be repeated.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable securities laws in Canada (“forward-looking statements”). Often, but not always, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as “plans”, “expects”, “is expected”, “budget”, “scheduled”, “estimates”, “forecasts”, “intends”, “anticipates”, or “believes” or variations (including negative variations) of such words and phrases, or state that certain actions, events or results “may”, “could”, “would”, “might” or “will” be taken, occur or be achieved. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of Ninepoint Partners LP to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements contained herein are made as of the date of this press release and Ninepoint Partners LP disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Ninepoint Partners LP undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements if circumstances, management’s estimates or opinions should change, except as required by securities legislation. Accordingly, the reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.

    Sales Inquiries:
    Ninepoint Partners LP
    Neil Ross
    416-945-6227
    nross@ninepoint.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: College course teaches Philly students to appreciate beer − whether they’re tailgating or fine dining

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Paul O’Neill, Assistant Clinical Professor of Food and Hospitality Management, Drexel University

    The Philadelphia region is home to over 90 craft breweries. sutiporn somnam/Moment Collection via Getty Images

    Uncommon Courses is an occasional series from The Conversation U.S. highlighting unconventional approaches to teaching.

    Title of course:

    The Fundamentals of Beer

    What prompted the idea for the course?

    After 25 years of working in professional kitchens and as a server in fine dining, I became an adjunct professor and then director of special projects in the Food and Hospitality Management department at Drexel University. Lynn Hoffman, the founder of the school’s culinary program and the author of “The Short Course in Beer,” suggested we create a 10-week beer course.

    It seemed like a no-brainer, given beer’s popularity with college students. But it was also an opportunity to help our students appreciate beer’s dizzying array of styles, as well as its deep cultural and historical significance – including right here in Philadelphia.

    What does the course explore?

    The course explores the history of brewing and how different societies – specifically Sumerian, German, English and Belgian – influenced the ingredients and brewing techniques used to make different styles of beers.

    Some styles are named after their city of origin – for example, pilsners originated in Pilzen, Czech Republic. Others are derived from the brewing procedure. “Lager,” for example, is German for “to stock or store.” These beers are stored at refrigerated temperatures for months after they’re brewed in order for residual flavors to subside, making way for a cleaner, crisper and more refreshing profile. Meanwhile, “porters” are named after the London working-class longshoremen – those who loaded and unloaded cargo at ports – who commonly consumed them.

    After studying the foundational aspects of beer, students learn about its evolution in America, with a focus on the Philadelphia region.

    For example, Yuengling, originally named Eagle Brewery, was established in 1829 in Pottsville, Pennsylvania, about 100 miles outside Philadelphia, and is credited with being America’s oldest continuously operating brewery. And in the city itself, local brewer Robert Hare Jr. made what George Washington referred to as “the best porter in Philadelphia,” just down the street from where America’s first lager was purportedly brewed by Bavarian expat John Wagner around 1840.

    We also discuss current Philadelphia-area brewers such as the Philadelphia Brewing Company, Dock Street and Yards, and their impact on the city’s craft beer industry.

    Why is this course relevant now?

    Beer and other alcoholic beverages have a significant financial impact on the restaurant industry, where many businesses operate on thin margins. Restaurants can attract diners with a dynamic beverage offering. A good beer program requires an informed staff, locally brewed options and an array of diverse styles. They might showcase classic lagers and ales alongside popular contemporary favorites such as New England IPAs and Italian pilsners, and off-the-wall experiments like Fruity Pebbles kettle sour ales.

    What’s a critical lesson from the course?

    Beer appreciation is not inebriation.

    There is a proper way to analyze beer through sight, aroma, palate texture and flavor. We use a tasting grid to guide students through this process. First we assess the beer’s color, clarity and foam, which gives us our initial ideas regarding the beer’s character. We then evaluate the beer’s aroma, which is derived from the grains, hops and fermentation. Then we sip and focus on the texture of the beer to determine the weight of it on the palate, the quality of the carbonation and the mouthfeel – whether it is thin, full or silky. Last, we assess the flavor profile.

    Students get the opportunity to distinguish the various malt and hop characters present in many popular beer styles – from the crisp, biscuit or cracker flavor and light green bitterness of a pilsner, to the dried fruit and dark caramel-laden quality of doppelbocks, to the cold-brew coffee style of dry stouts.

    “Tasting” and not simply “drinking” beer enables students to understand and appreciate what is in their glass. It is also important to note that when analyzing a beer, the glass must be clean, clear and of a certain shape – tulip. Having a globe to swirl the beer allows tasters to judge the viscosity, test the carbonation and open up the aromas.

    What materials does the course feature?

    • Lynn Hoffman’s “Short Course in Beer” offers a digestible summation of beer styles, history and how beer can be enjoyed in settings ranging from tailgates to fine dining.

    • Joshua Bernstein’s “The Complete Beer Course” illustrates the beer family tree in great detail, includes interviews with prominent brewers and provides textbook examples of various beer styles.

    • The Brewers Association’s Style Guidelines
      and Tasting Grid are go-to guides for how beer styles are delineated using a scale of color, bitterness and flavor attributes.

    • Six 1-oz. weekly samples allow students to taste historical representations and current iterations of a particular beer style, such as Bohemian pilsners, German hefeweizens, English bitters and Belgian tripels.

    • We also do a guided tour and tasting at one of Philadelphia’s larger independent craft beer brewers, Yards brewery.

    What will the course prepare students to do?

    Students learn about the history of beer production and its cultural relevance, and develop an understanding of tasting notes and profiles for various beer styles so they can distinguish between ale and lager family styles. By the end of the course, they should also be able to design their own beer menu for a restaurant.

    Paul O’Neill does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. College course teaches Philly students to appreciate beer − whether they’re tailgating or fine dining – https://theconversation.com/college-course-teaches-philly-students-to-appreciate-beer-whether-theyre-tailgating-or-fine-dining-244476

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Why Trump’s tariffs can’t solve America’s fentanyl crisis

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Rodney Coates, Professor of Critical Race and Ethnic Studies, Miami University

    Americans consume more illicit drugs per capita than anyone else in the world; about 6% of the U.S. population uses them regularly.

    One such drug, fentanyl – a synthetic opioid that’s 50 to 100 times more potent than morphine – is the leading reason U.S. overdose deaths have surged in recent years. While the rate of fentanyl overdose deaths has dipped a bit recently, it’s still vastly higher than it was just five years ago.

    Ending the fentanyl crisis won’t be easy. The U.S. has an addiction problem that spans decades – long predating the rise of fentanyl – and countless attempts to regulate, legislate and incarcerate have done little to reduce drug consumption. Meanwhile, the opioid crisis alone costs Americans tens of billions of dollars each year.

    With past policies having failed to curb fentanyl deaths, President Donald Trump now looks set to turn to another tool to fight America’s drug problem: trade policy.

    During his presidential campaign, Trump pledged to impose tariffs on Canada and Mexico if they don’t halt the flow of drugs across U.S. borders. Trump also promised to impose a new set of tariffs against China if it doesn’t do more to crack down on the production of chemicals used to make fentanyl. He reiterated his plan on his first day back in office, saying to reporters, “We’re thinking in terms of 25% on Mexico and Canada because they’re allowing … fentanyl to come in.”

    Speaking as a professor who studies social policy, I think both fentanyl and the proposed import taxes represent significant threats to the U.S. While the human toll of fentanyl is undeniable, the real question is whether tariffs will work – or worsen what’s already a crisis.

    Fentanyl: The ‘single greatest challenge’

    In 2021, more than 107,000 Americans died from overdoses – the most ever recorded – and nearly seven out of 10 deaths involved fentanyl or similar synthetic opioids. In 2022, fentanyl was killing an average of 200 people each day. And while fentanyl deaths declined slightly in 2023, nearly 75,000 Americans still died from synthetic opioids that year. In March of that year – the most recent for which full-year data on overdose deaths is available – the then-secretary of homeland security declared fentanyl to be “the single greatest challenge we face as a country.”

    But history shows that government efforts to curb drug use often have little success.

    The first real attempt to regulate drugs in the U.S. occurred in 1890, when, amid rampant drug abuse, Congress enacted a law taxing morphine and opium. In the years that followed, cocaine use skyrocketed, rising 700% between 1890 and 1902. Cocaine was so popular, it was even found in drinks such as Coca-Cola, from which it got its name.

    This was followed by a 1909 act banning the smoking of opium, and, in 1937, the “Marihuana Tax Act.” The most comprehensive package of laws was instituted with the Controlled Substances Act of 1970, which classified drugs into five categories based on their medical uses and potential for abuse or dependence. A year later, then-President Richard Nixon launched the “War on Drugs” and declared drug abuse as “public enemy No. 1.” And in 1986, Congress passed the Anti-Drug Abuse Act, directing US$1.7 billion for drug enforcement and control.

    President Richard Nixon declared drug abuse “Public enemy No. 1” at this 1971 press conference.

    These policies have generally failed to curb drug supply and use, while also causing significant harm to people and communities of color. For example, between 1980 and 1997, the number of incarcerations for nonviolent drug offenses went from 50,000 to 400,000. But these policies hardly put a dent in consumption. The share of high school seniors using drugs dipped only slightly over the same period, from 65% in 1980 to 58% in 1997.

    In short, past U.S. efforts to reduce illegal drug use haven’t been especially effective. Now, it looks like the U.S. is shifting toward using tariffs – but research suggests that those will not lead to better outcomes either, and could actually cause considerable harm.

    Why tariffs won’t work

    America’s experiments with tariffs can be traced back to the founding era with the passage of the Tariff Act of 1789. This long history has shown that tariffs, industrial subsidies and protectionist policies don’t do much to stimulate broad economic growth at home – but they raise prices for consumers and can even lead to global economic instability. History also shows that tariffs don’t work especially well as negotiating tools, failing to effect significant policy changes in target countries. Economists generally agree that the costs of tariffs outweigh the benefits.

    Over the course of Trump’s first term, the average effective tariff rate on Chinese imports went from 3% to 11%. But while imports from China fell slightly, the overall trade relationship didn’t change much: China remains the second-largest supplier of goods to the U.S.

    The tariffs did have some benefit – for Vietnam and other nearby countries with relatively low labor costs. Essentially, the tariffs on China caused production to shift, with global companies investing billions of dollars in competitor nations.

    This isn’t the first time Trump has used trade policy to pressure China on fentanyl – he did so in his first term. But while China made some policy changes in response, such as adding fentanyl to its controlled substances list in 2019, fentanyl deaths in the U.S. continued to rise. Currently, China still ranks as the No. 1 producer of fentanyl precursors, or chemicals used to produce illicit fentanyl. And there are others in the business: India, over that same period, has become a major producer of fentanyl.

    A question of supply and demand

    Drugs have been pervasive throughout U.S. history. And when you investigate this history and look at how other nations are dealing with this problem rather than criminalization, the Swiss and French have approached it as an addiction problem that could be treated. They realized that demand is what fuels the illicit market. And as any economist will tell you, supply will find a way if you don’t limit the demand. That’s why treatment works and bans don’t.

    The U.S. government’s ability to control the production of these drugs is limited at best. The problem is that new chemical products will continually be produced. Essentially, failure to restrict demand only places bandages on hemorrhaging wounds. What the U.S. needs is a more systematic approach to deal with the demand that’s fueling the drug crisis.

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

    – ref. Why Trump’s tariffs can’t solve America’s fentanyl crisis – https://theconversation.com/why-trumps-tariffs-cant-solve-americas-fentanyl-crisis-245978

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Norovirus, aka the winter vomiting bug, is on the rise – an infectious disease expert explains the best ways to stay safe

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By William Schaffner, Professor of preventive medicine, health policy, infectious diseses, Vanderbilt University

    Norovirus is accompanied by abdominal pain, diarrhea and explosive vomiting. Alla Bielikova/Moment via Getty Images

    The highly contagious norovirus – popularly known as “stomach flu” or the “winter vomiting bug” – is now surging through the U.S.. The number of outbreaks is up significantly over previous years, possibly due in part to a new strain of the virus. Outbreaks can occur after direct contact with someone who is infected. Food and household surfaces can also become contaminated.

    William Schaffner, a professor of preventive medicine and infectious diseases at the Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, discusses the symptoms of norovirus, how best to treat it, and the populations most vulnerable to this illness.

    Dr. William Schaffner discusses the norovirus.

    The Conversation has collaborated with SciLine to bring you highlights from the discussion that have been edited for brevity and clarity.

    What are the symptoms of a norovirus infection?

    William Schaffner: Norovirus is an intestinal virus that can make you very, very sick. It is indelicately called winter vomiting disease, and it begins suddenly, often with an explosive vomit that then repeats itself.

    Norovirus can cause abdominal pain and diarrhea at the same time, along with a fever. It will probably make you feel miserable for two or three days – but then everybody pretty much recovers.

    How should norovirus be treated?

    William Schaffner: The major problem norovirus causes is dehydration from all that vomiting and diarrhea. So you have to stay hydrated. Do this with little sips of clear liquids, because if you take too much, it’ll come right back up. Sports drinks are very good.

    Most people who get into trouble are either very young or older and more frail. They may have to go to the hospital to get rehydrated with an IV. When the occasional death occurs due to this dehydrating infection, it’s in those vulnerable populations.

    Why does norovirus tend to surge during the winter?

    William Schaffner: You can get it any time of the year, but there is a seasonal increase in the winter for reasons that scientists are not quite sure of. But people spend a lot of time indoors with each other in wintertime, so that makes it easier for the virus to get from one place to another. All that travel over the holidays, as well as family gatherings and parties, can spread the virus.

    How can people protect themselves from the norovirus?

    William Schaffner: The most important thing is good hand hygiene. Washing with soap and water works the best. Those hand hygiene gels and wipes – the hand sanitizers – that people tend to use aren’t as effective against norovirus, so just wash frequently with good old soap and water. And then, of course, avoid people who are sick.

    Also, remember that the virus can survive on environmental surfaces, like counters, doorknobs and tables. You don’t want to pick up those viruses on your fingers. If you get a little bit of virus on your fingertips and then touch your lips, you can get an infection because it just takes a small dose of the virus to make you sick.

    Who’s particularly vulnerable to norovirus?

    William Schaffner: The people who are more susceptible to catching it are those living in semi-enclosed or enclosed populations. For example, people in nursing homes, schools and prisons – essentially any circumstance where people are together for a long period of time.

    Another place where the virus can spread is cruise ships, which is why norovirus is also called the cruise ship virus. When people are confined on a ship for days and days, these outbreaks can run through most of the passengers.

    Interestingly enough – and this has never been well explained – the crew is usually less affected.

    But again, the most serious illness occurs in older, frail and immune-compromised people, or in the very young, where dehydration can be more serious.

    Where’s the research on developing a norovirus vaccine?

    William Schaffner: Norovirus has presented some scientific challenges. It’s actually rather difficult to grow in the laboratory, and so that has delayed the development of a vaccine. But researchers are working on it.

    Are there other infectious diseases going around right now?

    William Schaffner: Along with norovirus, respiratory viruses are still out there: influenza, COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV. They’re all perking up at the same time. It looks as though we’re having a very brisk winter viral season.

    Watch the full interview to hear more.

    SciLine is a free service based at the American Association for the Advancement of Science, a nonprofit that helps journalists include scientific evidence and experts in their news stories.

    William Schaffner receives funding from the CDC-sponsored Emerging Infections Program Collaborative Agreement.

    – ref. Norovirus, aka the winter vomiting bug, is on the rise – an infectious disease expert explains the best ways to stay safe – https://theconversation.com/norovirus-aka-the-winter-vomiting-bug-is-on-the-rise-an-infectious-disease-expert-explains-the-best-ways-to-stay-safe-247667

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –