NewzIntel.com

Category: Americas

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Cherfilus-McCormick Introduces Landmark Tax Bill to Provide Economic Opportunity to Working Families

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-Florida 20th district))

    Washington D.C. ─ Today, Congresswoman Cherfilus-McCormick introduced the All-Americans Tax Relief Act, comprehensive tax relief legislation that boosts economic mobility, lowers costs, and improves the financial security and well-being of hard-working South Florida families and families across the country.

    “For far too long, the U.S. tax code has deprived Americans of economic opportunity and remains a barrier to financial advancement,” said Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-FL). “My legislation will lay the necessary foundation for working families to achieve the American Dream, accounting for those everyday expenses — from rent to commuting — that stand in the way of economic mobility. Every American, regardless of their income or ZIP code, should have the tools to create wealth.”

    “The Financial Services Innovation Coalition (FSIC) fully supports the All-Americans Tax Relief Act of 2025 because it’s a real win for middle-class families,” said Kevin B. Kimble, Founder and CEO of FSIC. “This bill helps regular people by letting them deduct everyday costs like childcare, medical bills, commuting, and even tutoring. At a time when folks are struggling with high prices and flat wages, this is the kind of tax relief that can make a real difference. It’s about making the system work for the people who keep this country running, not just the wealthy.”

    The All-Americans Tax Relief Act puts the needs of working families first by:

    • Creating above-the-line deductions for medical expenses, rent expenses, daycare expenses, commuting costs, tutoring costs, and credit card debt interest payments for working- and middle-class families
    • Expanding the Earned Income Tax Credit by an average amount of $1,418.75 for single taxpayers and $1,656.25 for married couples filing jointly
    • Increasing the Child Tax Credit to $2,000 for up to three qualifying children and $500 for each additional qualifying child
    • Converting the Child Tax Credit to a fully refundable credit
    • Making the wealthy pay their fair share by increasing the top capital gains rate from 20% to 25%

    The Financial Services Innovation Coalition, HBCU Wall Street, Southern Christian Leadership Conference, Homeless Coalition of Dallas, Government Executives International, Texas Justice and Education Fund, Partnership for Innovation and Empowerment Advocacy, FederalReserve.Black, Tuskeegee Macon County Community Foundation, and the Hispanic Institute have all endorsed this legislation. 

    The full text of the bill can be found here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Stefanik, Comer Launch Investigation into Harvard’s Disregard for Civil Rights Laws Despite Receiving Enormous Amounts of Federal Funds

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Elise Stefanik (21st District of New York)

    Stefanik, Comer Launch Investigation into Harvard’s Disregard for Civil Rights Laws Despite Receiving Enormous Amounts of Federal Funds | Press Releases | Congresswoman Elise Stefanik

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: PRESS RELEASE: Congresswoman Barragán Hosts a Full House Community Conversation

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Nanette Diaz Barragán (CA-44)

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
    April 16, 2025

    Contact: Jin.Choi@mail.house.gov

    South Gate, CA — On Monday, Congresswoman Nanette Barragán (CA-44) held a second Community Conversation on the proposed Republican cuts to Medicaid, Social Security, and other essential government services; the tariff “tax” on everyday essential items; the illegal deportation of legally protected immigrants; and the impacts of these actions on communities in the district. After hosting nearly 400 constituents at her first Community Conversation in San Pedro, last night’s event saw close to 300 people gather in South Gate to hear from the Congresswoman, ask questions, and tell their personal stories of how they would be impacted by these policies. 

    The Congresswoman was joined by Community Health Pediatrician and Medical Director of Health Education and Wellness at AltaMed, Dr. Ilan Shapiro, and Immigration Attorney at the Legal Aid Foundation of Los Angeles (LAFLA), Christine Yoon. 

    “Our constituents are scared and worried about the changes coming from Republicans in Washington that will have a serious impact on their daily lives,” said Rep. Barragán. “The Trump Tax on everyday essentials like groceries, clothes, and cars and the massive cuts to federal programs affect every family in our communities. Parents should not have to decide between buying medicine for their child or putting food on the table. Seniors should not be threatened with loss of care in nursing homes while their children work full-time. And families should not have to pay thousands more every year for everyday essentials because of a misguided trade-war. House Democrats will continue to show up in our communities and fight to protect critical programs that hardworking Americans rely on every day.” 

    “Medicaid funding not only ensures that 37 million children in our country have access to care, it also helps fund critical programs for children’s mental health and children with disabilities. As a pediatrician, when Medicaid is funded, I can ensure the children I care for have access to the preventative care they need to help them grow healthy. Cutting Medicaid also cuts doctors, nurses, and resources for community health centers, hospitals, and specialty care. If we truly believe in protecting the most vulnerable in our society and investing in the future of our children, then we must protect and preserve Medicaid at all costs,” said Dr. Shapiro.

    As a practicing community pediatrician, I can tell you that if my Medicaid patients lose access or have to pay increased costs in care, the impacts will be long-lasting and detrimental to their lives, their families, and their communities,” he continued. 

    The full livestream can be found HERE. 

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Secretary of State Hoskins Identifies Top 5 Threats to Missouri Investors

    Source: US State of Missouri

     

     

    Secretary of State Hoskins Identifies Top 5 Threats to Missouri Investors

    From the Missouri Securities Division, a division of Missouri Secretary of State Denny Hoskins’ Office

    1. Scams Involving Digital Assets and Cryptocurrency

    Scammers often use Facebook, Telegram, WhatsApp, TikTok, YouTube, Instagram and other social media apps to find victims. Be cautious if someone asks you to cash out a retirement account like a 401(k) or to move money from an investment account into some sort of crypto platform. Always check the person’s background and qualifications before investing. If they hesitate to share that information, that’s a red flag. Walk away.

    2. Unregistered Promissory Notes

    Securities must be either registered or legally exempt—and so must the people selling them. Scammers often build trust and then ask for money. No friendship should require an investment. If it does, it’s likely a scam.

    3. Risky Real Estate Investments

    Real estate investment scams are on the rise. Scammers may try to sell you a share in a company that plans to buy and fix up distressed property for big profits. In many cases, the property is worthless, and investors lose most of their money. Always ask for a prospectus and read all disclosure documents before investing. Never invest more than you can afford to lose—there’s no such thing as a risk-free investment.

    4. Gold, Silver and Other Precious Metals

    Precious metals can help diversify your portfolio, but scammers use fear and pressure to convince people to invest too much in them. These investments may have hidden fees or be hard to sell. Some buyers have found it would take years to recover what they lost—time that older investors may not have.

    5. AI-Generated Testimonials

    Many online celebrity endorsements and reviews are fake and made using artificial intelligence. Whether real or not, a testimonial is never a reliable way to judge an investment. Always talk to a registered investment adviser. (You can check registrations on the Missouri Securities Commission website!) Don’t invest just because someone famous—or even a friend—recommended it.

    Stay alert when it comes to your finances. If someone asks for your investment, you can check their background by calling the Missouri Investor Protection Hotline at 1-800-721-7996.

    The Missouri Securities Division, a division of Missouri Secretary of State Denny Hoskins’ Office, is here to help protect your hard-earned money.

    About the Missouri Securities Division

    The Missouri Securities Division, a division of the Missouri Secretary of State’s Office, is responsible for protecting Missouri investors and ensuring fair and transparent securities markets. Under the authority of the Missouri Securities Act of 2003, the Division regulates the offer and sale of securities and the licensing of broker-dealers, agents, investment advisers, and investment adviser representatives.

    The Division investigates allegations of securities fraud and unregistered activity, brings enforcement actions against violators, and provides investor education resources to help Missourians make informed financial decisions. Through proactive oversight and enforcement, the Securities Division plays a critical role in promoting public trust and financial integrity in Missouri’s investment landscape. The Division is led by Commissioner Michael O’Donnell.

     

    About the Missouri Secretary of State’s Office

    The Missouri Secretary of State’s Office serves as a central hub for key state functions that promote transparency, security, and opportunity for all Missourians. The Office oversees the administration of fair and secure elections, registers and supports businesses, maintains and preserves state records through the State Archives, and ensures public access to government rulemaking via the Administrative Rules Division.

    Additionally, the Office protects investors through the Securities Division, supports libraries and literacy programs across the state, and administers the Safe at Home address confidentiality program for survivors of abuse and assault. With a commitment to service, accountability, and civic engagement, the Secretary of State’s Office works every day to strengthen Missouri’s government and communities.

     

    About Secretary of State Denny Hoskins

    Denny Hoskins, CPA, was elected Missouri’s 41st Secretary of State in November 2024. With a strong background in business and public service, he is committed to improving government efficiency, transparency, and supporting Missouri families. Hoskins previously served as a legislator in both the state Senate and House. He and his wife, Michelle, reside in Warrensburg and have five adult children.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General James Announces Convictions of Defendants for Trafficking Methamphetamine, Cocaine, and 150,000 Packets of Fentanyl and Heroin

    Source: US State of New York

    EW YORK – New York Attorney General Letitia James today announced the convictions of all 31 defendants previously charged for their roles in two major drug trafficking networks in Central New York and the North Country as part of an investigation led by the Office of the Attorney General’s (OAG) Organized Crime Task Force (OCTF) and the Syracuse Police Department (SPD). The investigation led to the seizure of more than 150,000 envelopes containing fentanyl or a mixture of fentanyl and heroin, the value of which exceeded $500,000, as well as nearly a pound of methamphetamine and one-quarter kilogram of cocaine. All 31 members of the drug trafficking rings, who operated in Onondaga, Oswego, Cortland, Jefferson, and St. Lawrence counties, have pleaded guilty. As part of their guilty pleas in Onondaga County Court, the defendants have also forfeited over $25,000 connected to their drug trafficking and two vehicles used to transport and distribute narcotics.

    “This investigation successfully took down two drug trafficking rings that put communities throughout New York at risk by distributing deadly amounts of fentanyl,” said Attorney General James. “My office works every day to protect New Yorkers from opioids, and that includes bringing fentanyl traffickers to justice. I thank all of our partners in law enforcement for their support in this investigation, and I will continue to go after anyone who tries to flood our communities with dangerous drugs.”

    The investigation included covert physical surveillance, thousands of hours of electronic surveillance, and multiple search warrants, aimed at rooting out heroin, fentanyl, methamphetamine, and cocaine dealers operating in Onondaga and Oswego Counties and elsewhere. In November 2023, Attorney General James announced that the 31 individuals were charged with 192 crimes in two separate indictments related to drug trafficking and weapons offenses. 

    Indictment One

    The first indictment outlined the activity of the “Castro Group” – which was led by Bayron Castro, a/k/a “Hov” – and charged 23 people with 150 counts for their roles in selling narcotics to customers residing in Onondaga, Oswego, St. Lawrence, Jefferson, and Cortland Counties. The investigation recovered over 100,000 glassine envelopes containing fentanyl and heroin that Castro was storing and distributing from inside suitcases in a Syracuse apartment. Castro pleaded guilty to Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the First Degree and on February 5, 2025, he was sentenced to 12 years in state prison, to be followed by five years of post-release supervision.

    The investigation revealed that Castro procured significant quantities of fentanyl from a supplier in Bronx County, Luis Miguel Joaquin. Joaquin was sentenced to eight years plus five years of post-release supervision after pleading guilty to Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance in the First Degree. Castro and his associates were accused of supplying narcotics to their co-defendants, including several alleged Bricktown gang members who were distributing fentanyl, heroin, methamphetamine, and cocaine throughout Onondaga, Oswego, Cortland, Jefferson, and St. Lawrence Counties.

    Indictment Two

    The second indictment outlined the activity of the “Pettiford Group” – which was led by Edward Pettiford, a/k/a “Buster” – and charged eight individuals with 42 counts for their roles in selling narcotics and methamphetamine and related events in Onondaga and Oswego Counties. The investigation of this group revealed that alleged Bricktown member Malik Evans was distributing narcotics in Onondaga and Oswego Counties, and that Evans was supplied by Henry Townsend, a/k/a “Henrock,” and Brycedon James, a/k/a “Doodak,” both of whom were supplied by Pettiford.

    Pettiford pleaded guilty to Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance in the Third Degree and was sentenced to six years in prison plus three years of post-release supervision. During the course of the investigation, defendant Henry Townsend fired a gun while seated in a vehicle in his driveway on West Newell Street, Syracuse, striking an innocent civilian across the street. Townsend has pleaded guilty to Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Second Degree in conjunction with that shooting, as well as Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance in the Third Degree, and he was sentenced to 12 years in prison plus five years of post-release supervision.

    “Law enforcement is never stronger than when we work together, nor is it more feared by those who decide to peddle death on our streets through narcotics like fentanyl and heroin,” said Syracuse Police Chief Joseph Cecile. “This major drug investigation is a prime example of our strength through collaboration — from investigation through prosecution.”

    “These convictions speak volumes to the tremendous interagency coordination and cooperation necessary to get illegal drugs off our streets,” said New York State Police Superintendent Steven G. James. “As a result of the commitment among our law enforcement partners, two major drug trafficking operations have been shut down. These drugs destroy communities and put lives at risk, and I want to thank our members, the Office of the Attorney General, and all our law enforcement partners for their tenacious dedication to tracking illegal drugs and intercepting them at their source.

    The following guilty pleas have been entered and sentences imposed:

    • Deion Bradley of Syracuse, NY pleaded guilty to Attempted Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Third Degree. He was sentenced to three and a half years in prison plus two years of post-release supervision;
       
    • Bayron Castro, a/k/a “Hov”, of Syracuse, NY pleaded guilty to Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the First Degree and was sentenced to 12 years in prison plus five years of post-release supervision and has forfeited two vehicles;
       
    • Jose Cosme of Syracuse, NY pleaded guilty to Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Second Degree and Criminal Possession of a Weapon Third Degree. He was sentenced to three years in prison plus five years of post-release supervision;
       
    • Jean Carlos Cruz of Syracuse, NY pleaded guilty to Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance in the Third Degree and was sentenced to five years in prison plus three years of post-release supervision;
       
    • Miguel Cruz, a/k/a “G,” of Liverpool, NY pleaded guilty to Conspiracy in the Second Degree and was sentenced to five to ten years in prison;
       
    • Lamell Davis, a/k/a “Melly,” or “O’Melly,” a/k/a “Felix,” of Syracuse, NY pleaded guilty to Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance in the First Degree and Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Second Degree and will receive a ten-year prison sentence;
       
    • Johnathan Delgado, a/k/a “Green Eyes,” of Syracuse, NY pleaded guilty to Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance in the Third Degree. He was sentenced to four and a half years in prison plus three years of post-release supervision;
       
    • Malik Evans, a/k/a “Leek,” of Syracuse, NY pleaded guilty to Attempted Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance in the Third Degree and was sentenced to five years in prison plus three years of post-release supervision;
       
    • Chad Firenze, of Granby, NY pleaded guilty to Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Third Degree and was sentenced to two years in prison plus two years of post-release supervision;
       
    • Terrah Frederick, of Adams Center, NY pleaded guilty to Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Third Degree and was sentenced to four years in prison plus two years of post-release supervision;
       
    • Jaidyn Freeman, a/k/a “Jaido,” of Syracuse, NY pleaded guilty to Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance in the Third Degree and was sentenced to five years in prison plus two years of post-release supervision;
       
    • Shawn Gifford, a/k/a “Nani,” of Syracuse, NY pleaded guilty to Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance in the Third Degree and was sentenced to three and a half years in prison plus two years of post-release supervision;
       
    • Michael Hudgins, of Syracuse, NY pleaded guilty to Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance in the Fifth Degree and was sentenced to five years of probation;
       
    • Xavier Jackson, of Syracuse, NY pleaded guilty to Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Third Degree and was sentenced to three years in prison plus three years of post-release supervision;
       
    • Brycedon James, a/k/a “Doodak,” of Syracuse, NY pleaded guilty to Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Third Degree and was sentenced to two and a half years in prison plus two years post-release supervision;
       
    • Emmanuel Jenkins, a/k/a “Lean,” of Syracuse, NY pleaded guilty to Attempted Tampering with Physical Evidence and was sentenced to time served;
       
    • Kwamea Jenkins, of Syracuse, NY pleaded guilty to Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Third Degree and was sentenced to six years in prison plus two years of post-release supervision;
       
    • Luis Miguel Joaquin, of the Bronx, NY pleaded guilty to Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance in the First Degree and was sentenced to eight years in prison plus five years of post-release supervision;
       
    • David Kalet, of Port Byron, NY pleaded guilty to Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance in the Third Degree and was sentenced to four years in prison plus three years of post-release supervision;
       
    • James Kelley, of Liverpool, NY pleaded guilty to Attempted Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Third Degree. His sentence is pending;
       
    • Christopher Lanzafame, of Baldwinsville, NY pleaded guilty to Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Fifth Degree and was sentenced to five years of probation;
       
    • Docciana Mack, of Syracuse, NY pleaded guilty to Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Fourth Degree and was sentenced to five years of probation;
       
    • Devine Mobley, Syracuse, NY pleaded guilty to Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance in the Third Degree and was sentenced to three and a half years plus two years post-release supervision;
       
    • James Odom, of Syracuse, NY pleaded guilty to Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance in the Third Degree and was sentenced to five years of probation;
       
    • Edward Pettiford, a/k/a “Buster,” of Syracuse, NY pleaded guilty to Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance in the Third Degree and was sentenced to six years in prison plus three years of post-release supervision;
       
    • Keenan Scott, a/k/a “Kasey,” of Syracuse, NY pleaded guilty to Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance in the Third Degree and was sentenced to four years in prison plus two years of post-release supervision;
       
    • Jamar Sheppard, a/k/a “Ski,” of Syracuse, NY pleaded guilty to Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance in the Fifth Degree and was sentenced to three years in prison plus two years of post-release supervision;
       
    • Carlos Torres, of Syracuse, NY pleaded guilty to Attempted Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance in the Third Degree. His sentence is pending;
       
    • Henry Townsend, a/k/a “Rock,” a/k/a “Henrock,” of Syracuse, NY pleaded guilty to Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance in the Third Degree and Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Second Degree. He was sentenced to12 years in prison plus five years of post-release supervision;
       
    • Jeffrey Walts, of Central Square, NY pleaded guilty to Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Third Degree and was sentenced to two and a half years in prison plus three years of post-release supervision;
       
    • Tevon Webb, a/k/a “Tay,” of Syracuse, NY pleaded guilty to Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Fifth Degree and was sentenced to 180 days in prison.

    The takedown marked another major drug bust in the Attorney General’s Suburban and Upstate Response to the Growing Epidemic (S.U.R.G.E.) Initiative, a law enforcement effort that brings together state and local law enforcement to target New York’s growing – and often violent – heroin, fentanyl, opioid, and narcotics trafficking networks. Since launching in 2017, SURGE has taken 991 alleged traffickers off the streets.

    The investigation brought together the resources of more than a dozen state, local, and federal enforcement agencies, including the SPD, Onondaga County Sheriff’s Office, Oswego County Sheriff’s Office, City of Oswego Police Department, City of Fulton Police Department, New York State Police, New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision, Cortland County Sheriff’s Office, the Metro-Jefferson Drug Task Force, Homeland Security Investigations, U.S. Border Patrol, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Onondaga County Probation Department.

    The investigation was led by Syracuse Police Detective Travis Holmes and OAG OCTF Supervising Detective Tim MacConaghy, under the supervision of OCTF Assistant Chief Investigator John Monte and Deputy Chief Investigator Andrew Boss. The Attorney General’s Investigations Division is led by Chief Oliver Pu-Folkes.

    The case is being prosecuted by OAG OCTF Assistant Deputy Attorney General Geoffrey Ciereck, with the assistance of Legal Support Analyst Sean McCauley and OCTF Confidential Clerk Theresa Rowe, under the supervision of Upstate OCTF Deputy Chief Maria Moran. Nicole Keary is the Deputy Attorney General in Charge of OCTF. The Criminal Justice Division is led by Chief Deputy Attorney General Jose Maldonado. Both the Investigations Division and the Criminal Justice Division are overseen by First Deputy Attorney General Jennifer Levy.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General James Wins Case Against Google for Monopolies in Digital Advertising

    Source: US State of New York

    EW YORK – New York Attorney General Letitia James today announced a major court victory after the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia found that Google has violated the law by maintaining illegal monopolies in the digital advertising technology industry, stifling competition and harming website publishers, advertisers, and consumers. Attorney General James led a coalition of 17 attorneys general joining the Department of Justice (DOJ) to sue Google in 2023, seeking to stop Google’s anticompetitive conduct that threatens markets in the online advertising industry. 

    “Google’s monopolies allow it to soak up excessive profits, leaving less for the workers and businesses whose livelihoods depend on online advertising,” said Attorney General James. “Everyone from major news organizations to small independent bloggers has taken a financial hit because of Google’s conduct, making it harder to continue to offer free, high-quality content online for everyone. Today we won a major victory after a court found Google violated the law when it used its power and influence to limit competition. I look forward to continuing this case to deliver real change and restore competition to online advertising platforms that workers and businesses across the country rely on.”

    In January 2023, Attorney General James, DOJ, and the coalition of attorneys general sued Google for stifling competition in the advertising technology industry, harming website publishers, advertisers, and consumers. The lawsuit alleged Google’s market power allows it to control nearly every aspect of online ad sales, allowing it to extract higher fees from advertisers while paying lower amounts to publishers for their ad space. This conduct hurts consumers and web publishers by making it harder for websites to make enough money on their advertising inventory, preventing them from offering internet users content for free, without subscriptions, paywalls, or alternative forms of monetization.

    Today’s decision, issued by Judge Leonie Brinkema of the Eastern District of Virginia, found Google liable for violating antitrust law by acquiring and maintaining monopolies in the publisher ad server and ad exchange markets for open-web display advertising. The judge also found Google liable for unlawfully tying together its publisher ad server and its ad exchange and that Google harmed competition, its own customers, and Internet users by imposing anticompetitive policies that reduced quality and increased prices.

    A second phase of the trial to determine remedies for Google’s conduct will take place at a later date.

    This lawsuit is led by Attorney General James, the attorneys general of Virginia and California, and DOJ, along with the attorneys general of Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, North Carolina, Rhode Island, Tennessee, Washington, and West Virginia.

    This matter is being handled for New York by Assistant Attorney General Morgan J. Feder of the Antitrust Bureau and Antitrust Bureau Chief Elinor Hoffmann. The Antitrust Bureau is a part of the Division of Economic Justice, which is overseen by Chief Deputy Attorney General Chris D’Angelo and First Deputy Attorney General Jennifer Levy.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Orrstown Financial Services, Inc. Announces Date of First Quarter 2025 Earnings Release, Conference Call and Webcast

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HARRISBURG, Pa., April 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Orrstown Financial Services, Inc. (NASDAQ: ORRF), the holding company of Orrstown Bank, announced today that it will report first quarter 2025 earnings at the close of business on Tuesday, April 22, 2025 and that management will host a conference call and webcast to review the Company’s quarterly results on Wednesday, April 23, 2025 at 9:00 am ET. The conference call and webcast details are below:

    Earnings Release: Tuesday, April 22, 2025, After Market Close

    Conference Call and Webcast: Wednesday, April 23, 2025, 9:00 a.m. ET

    Webcast:

    Interested parties may listen to the call and view a copy of the Company’s earnings presentation by joining via webcast at:

    https://events.q4inc.com/attendee/260296507

    Telephone:

    To listen to the call without access to the slides, interested parties may participate by telephone by dialing:

    USA Toll-Free: (800) 715-9871
    USA/International Toll: +1 (646) 307-1963
    Canada Toll-Free: (800) 715-9871
    Conference ID: 7533105

    Recorded Playback:

    An audio recording of the conference call will be available by telephone until April 30, 2025 by dialing one of the numbers listed below:

    US & Canada Toll-Free: (800) 770-2030
    US Toll: (609) 800-9909
    Canada Toll: (647) 362-9199
    Playback ID: 7533105#

    The audio recording of the conference call will also be available in the Investor Relations section of the Company’s website at www.orrstown.com.

    About Orrstown

    With $5.4 billion in assets, Orrstown Financial Services, Inc. and its wholly-owned subsidiary, Orrstown Bank, provide a wide range of consumer and business financial services in Berks, Cumberland, Dauphin, Franklin, Lancaster, Perry, and York Counties, Pennsylvania and Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Harford, Howard, and Washington Counties, Maryland, as well as Baltimore City, Maryland. The Company’s lending area also includes adjacent counties in Pennsylvania and Maryland, as well as Loudon County, Virginia and Berkeley, Jefferson and Morgan Counties, West Virginia. Orrstown Bank is an Equal Housing Lender and its deposits are insured up to the legal maximum by the FDIC. Orrstown Financial Services, Inc.’s common stock is traded on Nasdaq (ORRF). For more information about Orrstown Financial Services, Inc. and Orrstown Bank, visit www.orrstown.com.

    For additional information, please contact:

    Neil Kalani
    EVP, Chief Financial Officer
    717-510-7097
    nkalani@orrstown.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: International Monetary Fund (IMF) Staff Conclude the 2025 Article IV Discussions and Reach Staff-Level Agreement with Tanzania on the Fifth Review of the Extended Credit Facility and the Second Review of the Resilience and Sustainability Facility

    Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

    WASHINGTON D.C., United States of America, April 17, 2025/APO Group/ —

    • The IMF and Tanzanian authorities have reached staff-level agreement on the fifth review under the Extended Credit Facility (ECF) and the second review under the Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF). Once approved by the IMF Executive Board, Tanzania will gain access to US$441 million in financing.
    • Tanzania’s economic outlook is favorable, with robust growth, low inflation, an improved current account, and increased foreign exchange liquidity. In FY25/26, well-balanced public revenue measures are expected to maintain fiscal and debt sustainability, while safeguarding priority social spending.
    • Continuing implementation of climate adaptation and mitigation policies, supported by the RSF, will help strengthen resilience to climate-related risks.

    A staff team from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) led by Mr. Nicolas Blancher, visited Tanzania during April 2-17, 2025, and held discussions on the 2025 Article IV consultation, the fifth review under the Extended Credit Facility (ECF), and the second review under the Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF). Subject to approval by the IMF Executive Board, the reviews will make available SDR 326.47 million (about US$440.8 million), bringing the total IMF financial support under the ECF arrangement to SDR 682.21 million (about US$907.4 million), and SDR 255.72 million (about US$343.6 million) under the RSF.

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

    “I am pleased to announce that the IMF team and the Tanzanian authorities have reached a staff-level agreement on the policies needed to complete the fifth review under Tanzania’s ECF-supported program, and the second review of the RSF arrangement. The IMF’s Executive Board will discuss these reviews in the coming weeks.

    “Tanzania’s economic activity has been strong, with real GDP growth reaching 5.5 percent in 2024 and projected to increase to 6 percent in 2025. Inflation, at 3.3 percent in March (yoy), has remained subdued and below the Bank of Tanzania (BoT) target of 5 percent. While the economic outlook is favorable, risks are tilted to the downside. The external environment is uncertain, with risks from a slowdown in the global economy and trade, geoeconomic fragmentation, further intensification of the conflict in the DR Congo, and reduced foreign development assistance. On the domestic front, the upcoming national elections may increase risks of fiscal pressures or, more broadly, reform slowdown.

    “Fiscal consolidation is expected to pause in FY24/25 with the adoption of a supplementary budget in February 2025 aimed at increasing public spending by about 0.4 percent of GDP relative to the initial budget, through higher expenditures on education and health, clearance of domestic arrears, and other priority areas. It will be essential to resume growth-friendly fiscal consolidation in FY25/26 to preserve debt sustainability and rebuild fiscal space, especially in light of pressing social spending needs. To this effect, the authorities are committed to reducing the domestic primary deficit by 0.4 percentage points of GDP to 0.8 percent in FY25/26 through revenue measures yielding 0.9 percent of GDP, while safeguarding priority social spending at 7.1 percent of GDP.

    “With inflation remaining below the BoT’s 5 percent target maintaining the CBR at 6 percent, a level which the mission considers to be neutral or mildly stimulatory, will help preserve price stability in the period ahead. It will also be important to continue allowing exchange rate flexibility and conducting FX interventions in line with the BoT’s FX intervention policy. Increased tolerance for exchange rate flexibility, together with reforms to improve the functioning of the foreign exchange market, have been successful in bringing back FX flows into the formal market, increasing its liquidity and reducing the parallel market premium.

    “The current account deficit is estimated to have narrowed to 2.6 percent of GDP in CY2024, from 3.8 percent of GDP in CY2023. This was driven by strong exports of minerals and agricultural products, as well as record tourist arrivals, against a moderate increase in imports of capital goods and declining oil imports. In 2025, high gold prices are expected to support the export momentum and help further reduce the current account deficit. Gross international reserves stood at an adequate level of US$5.7 billion (about 3.8 months of imports) in March 2025.”

    “In the context of the Article IV consultation, the mission was also an opportunity to discuss longer-term prospects for the Tanzanian economy with a range of government and other counterparts. To meet the ambitious goals laid out in the Tanzania Vision 2050, it will be critical to ensure that sufficient resources are dedicated to the education and health of a young and rapidly growing population, and to create an enabling environment for private sector-led growth and job creation. In particular, further efforts to improve the availability and access to finance, streamline business regulations, and strengthen judicial and anti-corruption institutions, are key structural reform priorities.

    “Continuing the implementation of climate reforms, supported by the RSF, will enhance climate resilience and sustainability. The government has already started to strengthen the institutional framework for climate policies and public investment management in line with climate risks. Accelerating implementation of RSF reforms with technical and financial assistance from the IMF, the World Bank and other development partners, will help build resilience and catalyze support for the climate agenda in Tanzania.

    “The mission met with Minister of Finance, Dr. Mwigulu Nchemba, Bank of Tanzania Governor, Mr. Emmanuel Tutuba, other senior officials, development partners, private sector representatives, and civil society organizations. The IMF team would like to thank the Tanzanian authorities and other counterparts for their hospitality, and the candid and productive discussions.”

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Department of State Press Briefing – April 17, 2025

    Source: United States of America – Department of State (video statements)

    Spokesperson Tammy Bruce leads the Department Press Briefing, at the Department of State, on April 17, 2025.

    ———-
    Under the leadership of the President and Secretary of State, the U.S. Department of State leads America’s foreign policy through diplomacy, advocacy, and assistance by advancing the interests of the American people, their safety and economic prosperity. On behalf of the American people we promote and demonstrate democratic values and advance a free, peaceful, and prosperous world.

    The Secretary of State, appointed by the President with the advice and consent of the Senate, is the President’s chief foreign affairs adviser. The Secretary carries out the President’s foreign policies through the State Department, which includes the Foreign Service, Civil Service and U.S. Agency for International Development.

    Get updates from the U.S. Department of State at www.state.gov and on social media!
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/statedept
    X: https://x.com/StateDept
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    Subscribe to the State Department Blog: https://www.state.gov/blogs
    Watch on-demand State Department videos: https://video.state.gov/
    Subscribe to The Week at State e-newsletter: http://ow.ly/diiN30ro7Cw

    State Department website: https://www.state.gov/
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    Terms of Use: https://state.gov/tou

    #StateDepartment #DepartmentofState #Diplomacy

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g9rf_fstPfk

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ernst Works to Improve Mail Service for Iowans

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA)
    Published: April 17, 2025
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) is working to improve mail service for Iowans by calling out the so-called “Delivering for America Plan” that has led to cut services and increased rates, disproportionately harming rural communities.
    In Ernst’s letter to the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) Board of Governors, she calls for a new Postmaster General who will pause this plan and prioritize the needs of rural consumers.
    “The Postal Regulatory Commission’s recent advisory opinion on the Delivering for America Plan also stated, ‘Rural communities will experience disproportionate downgrading of service standards’ and that ‘the proposal is unlikely to significantly improve the financial health of the Postal Service for multiple reasons,’” wrote Ernst.
    After Ernst worked to terminate electric vehicle waste at USPS through her Return to Sender Act, which would claw back any of the remaining $3 billion authorized in the so-called Inflation Reduction Act, she continued to expose this government waste.
    “The Delivering for America Plan’s wasteful spending includes billions for purchasing electric Next Generation Delivery Vehicles (NGDV) and charging infrastructure. Rather than buying vehicles with internal combustion engines that cost less per unit, the USPS announced plans to acquire at least 66,000 electric NGDVs. Unsurprisingly, this boondoggle is already way behind schedule – highlighting yet another failure of the Delivering for America Plan,” wrote Ernst.
    Read the full letter here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murphy, Warren, Kelly Seek Answers On Wealthy Individuals, Corporations Set To Receive Massive Tax Breaks From Republicans

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Connecticut – Chris Murphy

    April 17, 2025

    WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), a member of the Senate Finance Committee, and Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), a member of the Joint Economic Committee, sent a letter requesting that the Joint Committee on Taxation (JCT) calculate and publish the number of wealthy individuals and billionaire corporations who might benefit from tax giveaways under Congressional Republicans’ tax plan. 
    As part of the budget reconciliation process, Senate Democrats forced Republicans to go on the record with their plans to give massive tax handouts to the wealthiest Americans and giant corporations. Democrats asked whether Republicans would oppose more tax cuts for people making over $100 million, $500 million, or even $1 billion in a single year; Republicans voted no. When asked whether Republicans would oppose additional tax cuts for corporations making over $1 billion in a single year—including corporations like Amazon, Tesla, and ExxonMobil—Republicans voted no again. 
    “While Republicans have claimed that these tax breaks are meant to help working people, their votes don’t lie,” the senators wrote. 
    The lawmakers asked the committee to share the following information by April 30, 2025: 
    The number and percentage of individual taxpayers who, in the past three tax years, made at least $10 million, $100 million, $500 million, or $1 billion each year. 
    The number and percentage of corporations who, in the past three tax years, made at least $100 million, $500 million, $1 billion, or $10 billion each year. 
    Full text of the letter is available HERE and below.
    Dear Dr. Barthold:
    Last week, Congressional Republicans officially passed a budget resolution that opens the door to massive tax breaks for the wealthiest Americans and corporations. While Republicans have claimed that these tax breaks are meant to help working people, their votes don’t lie.
    In the process of advancing their tax plans, Republicans have consistently chosen to make life even easier for the ultra-rich and giant corporations. When Democrats asked whether Senate Republicans would oppose more tax cuts for people making over $100 million, $500 million, or even $1 billion in a single year, Republicans voted no. When Democrats then asked whether Senate Republicans would oppose additional tax cuts for corporations making over $1 billion in a single year—including corporations like Amazon, Tesla, and ExxonMobil—Republicans voted no again. Republicans’ agenda, as their votes have repeatedly shown, is simple: billionaires win, families lose.
    The American people deserve to know who President Trump and Congressional Republicans truly represent. Accordingly, we ask that you provide the following information by April 30, 2025:
    For each of the past three tax years, the number and percentage of individual taxpayers who received annual taxable income exceeding:
    $10 million
    $100 million
    $500 million
    $1 billion

    For each of the past three tax years, the number and percentage of corporate taxpayers who received annual taxable income exceeding:
    $10 million
    $100 million
    $500 million
    $1 billion

    Thank you for your attention to this important matter.
    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: She shoots, she scores!

    Source: Government of Canada regional news (2)

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Army Wickr: secure communications for mission success

    Source: United States Army

    WASHINGTON —The U.S. Army Office of the Chief Information Officer’s Enterprise Cloud Management Agency announced that Army Enterprise Wickr is now available to a wider audience, and that ECMA is now broadly accepting new user requests and is prioritizing requirements and mission needs.

    The Army faces a critical juncture in its tactical messaging and collaboration capabilities. End users need an easy-to-use, lightweight and secure platform for seamless communications to support joint, multinational and interagency interoperability during exercises and operations. Without these capabilities, users often choose unauthorized consumer applications for operational communications – applications that present substantial security and compliance risks and are often in volitation of Army and DoD policy.

    Army Wickr is an accredited, FedRAMP high, DoD IL5-authorized, cloud-native messaging and collaboration solution. It is managed and governed by ECMA in the cArmy landing zone and has been used in various pilot programs service-wide. Army Wickr retains operational security during planned exercises and emerging operations, and delivers end-to-end encryption for file sharing, video, chat, text and voice communications. The application provides enterprise-level data retention and administrative controls needed to meet recordkeeping requirements, manages user and device data remotely, and includes federation capabilities between networks.

    The platform also seamlessly integrates with the Android Tactical Assault Kit, a geospatial infrastructure and situational awareness application that provides a real-time common operating picture of people and assets within a map-based view.

    A key core capability inherent to the Army Wickr capability has been Wickr bot integrations. Wickr Bots are containerized code that provide agentic workflows to support customized activities. Currently, Army Wickr has deployed on-demand translation, data retention and broadcast bots to support various use cases. On the roadmap, ECMA is looking to integrate Army Wickr with enterprise cross-domain solution and cross-platform chat for interoperability with Army Vantage, Army Intelligence Data Platform, and MSS, and deployment of a custom bot for chat with generative artificial intelligence/ large language models.

    Army Wickr has been effective in supporting interagency collaborations, multinational exercises and warfighting efforts, including Hurricane Helene, U.S. southern border support operations, and Dark Horizon in Japan.

    ECMA continues to onboard new user requests on a rolling basis, contingent on mission priority. Organizations interested in implementing Army Wickr into their communications PACE plan can start onboarding users by sending a list of names and emails to usarmy.ecma.mbx.wickr-ops@army.mil.

    Learn more about ECMA here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Mexican Man Indicted for Re-Entry of Removed Alien

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – JOSE GUADALUPE COCA-ESCALANTE, a/k/a “Lenin Romo”, a/k/a “Guadalupe Escalante,” (“COCA-ESCALANTE”) age 39, a native of Mexico, was indicted on April 11, 2025, for re-entry of a removed alien, in violation of Title 8 United States Code, Section 1326(a), announced Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson.

    According to the indictment, COCA-ESCALANTE was found in the United States on September 26, 2024, having reentered the United States without authorization from the Attorney General of the United States, after being previously deported on December 8, 2016.

    COCA-ESCALANTE faces up to two years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, up to one year of supervised release, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00 for re-entry of a removed alien.

    Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson reiterated that an indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America (https://www.justice.gov/dag/media/1393746/dl?inline), a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

    Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson praised the work of the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Carter K.D. Guice, Jr. of the General Crimes Unit  is in charge of the prosecution.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Leader of Detroit Gang Sentenced to 20 Years in Prison for Drug Trafficking Conspiracy and Money Laundering

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

    DETROIT – A 34-year-old Shelby Township man, Martaze Davis, was sentenced to 20 years in prison today for trafficking methamphetamine and laundering drug proceeds, Acting United States Attorney Julie A. Beck announced.

    Beck was joined in the announcement by Andrew Lawton, Acting Special Agent in Charge of Drug Enforcement Administration, Cheyvoryea Gibson, Special Agent in Charge of Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Charles E. Miller, Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigations, Detroit Field Divisions.

    Davis was a leader in a Detroit gang, 42 Hustle Boys. The 42 Hustle Boys and a rival gang, the Seven Mile Bloods, engaged in a longstanding and deadly feud. This investigation and prosecution, which began in 2023, focused on Davis’s leadership of a drug conspiracy that sent members to California to purchase methamphetamine brought into the United States from Mexico and transport it across the United States for distribution in Michigan, Ohio, West Virginia, and Tennessee.

    On October 24, 2023, Davis and codefendant Alexander Polanco, 28, conspired to load a rental car occupied by codefendants Taneeya Richard, 25, and Dejon Howard-Henderson, 24, with 38.9 kilograms of methamphetamine. The following day, officers stopped the rental car in Texas and seized the methamphetamine. Davis also laundered drug proceeds through his personal and business bank accounts intending to conceal the nature and source of the proceeds.

    “Our office vigorously pursues drug traffickers, including gang leaders and members, who push dangerous drugs like methamphetamine into our communities with indifference to the tragedy it inflicts. Thanks to the outstanding teamwork among the Drug Enforcement Administration, Internal Revenue Service Criminal Division, Federal Bureau of Investigation, and U.S. Attorney’s Office, a dangerous drug trafficker and money launderer has been removed from our streets,” stated Acting United States Attorney Julie A. Beck.

    “Bringing members of violent street gangs to justice is one of our top operational priorities in the DEA Detroit Division. Mr. Davis and his 42 Hustle Boys co-conspirators are responsible for fueling untold suffering by funneling massive amounts of methamphetamine into areas already hard-hit by the opioid crisis.  Today’s sentence sends another clear message to drug trafficking organizations that their criminal behavior will not be tolerated and will be met with consequences,” said Andrew Lawton, Acting Special Agent in Charge of Drug Enforcement Administration.

    “Today’s sentencing of Martaze Davis represents a significant victory in our ongoing fight against organized crime and drug trafficking in Detroit,” said Cheyvoryea Gibson, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Detroit Field Office. “This case underscores the powerful collaboration between the FBI, DEA, and Detroit’s IRS Criminal Division. Together, we remain steadfast in our mission to disrupt criminal networks, dismantle money laundering operations, and protect our communities. The removal of Mr. Davis, a dangerous Detroit gang leader, from the streets is a pivotal step in safeguarding Michigan and ensuring the safety of all its residents. Our combined efforts reflect our unwavering commitment to keeping Detroit and the surrounding areas free from criminal activity.”

    “The laundering of illegal drug profits is as important and essential to drug traffickers as the very distribution of their illegal drugs. Without these ill-gotten gains, the traffickers could not finance their organizations,” said Charles Miller, Special Agent in Charge, Detroit Field Office, IRS Criminal Investigation. “We will continue to be relentless in our mission to dismantle drug trafficking organizations and bring the criminals who run them to justice.”

    The Honorable Sean F. Cox sentenced Davis to 20 years in prison.

    This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Strike Force Initiative, which provides for the establishment of permanent multi-agency task force teams that work side-by-side in the same location. This co-located model enables agents from different agencies to collaborate on intelligence-driven, multi-jurisdictional operations to disrupt and dismantle the most significant drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations.

    This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigations, and Federal Bureau of Investigation. It was prosecuted by AUSA Paul Kuebler.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Mexican National Sentenced to Nearly Five Years in Prison for Trafficking 230 Pounds of Methamphetamine and Five Pounds of Fentanyl

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime News

    FRESNO, Calif. — Isaac Abraham Sandoval Lopez, 36, of Sinaloa, Mexico, was sentenced Monday by U.S. District Judge Kirk E. Sherriff to four years and nine months in prison for possessing with intent to distribute methamphetamine, fentanyl, and heroin, Acting U.S. Attorney Michele Beckwith announced.

    According to court documents, on June 26, 2024, officers stopped Sandoval Lopez for a traffic infraction while driving northbound on Interstate 5 in Fresno County. A subsequent search of his car revealed several bags, suitcases, and backpacks throughout the car containing different types of narcotics. In total, officers seized approximately 230 pounds of methamphetamine, 5 pounds of fentanyl, and 2 pounds of heroin.

    This case was the product of an investigation by the California Highway Patrol and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cody S. Chapple prosecuted the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Nvni Group Receives Non-Compliance Notice from Nasdaq

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, April 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Nvni Group Limited (Nasdaq: NVNI) (“Nuvini” or the “Company”), a leading acquirer of private SaaS B2B companies in Latin America, has received notice from the listing qualifications department staff of The Nasdaq Stock Market (“Nasdaq”) stating that the Company is not in compliance with Nasdaq Listing Rule 5550(a)(2), which requires listed securities to maintain a minimum bid price of $1 per share, and Listing Rule 5550(b)(2), which requires listed securities to maintain a minimum Market Value of Listed Securities (MVLS) of $35 million.

    Pursuant to Nasdaq Listing Rule 5810(c)(3)(A) and Listing Rule 5810(c)(3)(C), the Company has been granted a 180-calendar day compliance period, or until October 13, 2025, to regain compliance with both listing requirements. To regain compliance, the closing bid price of the Company’s ordinary shares must meet or exceed $1.00 per share for a minimum of ten consecutive business days during the 180-calendar day compliance period and the Company’s MVLS must close at $35 million or more for a minimum of ten consecutive business days. During the compliance period, the Company’s ordinary shares will continue to be listed and traded on the Nasdaq Stock Market under the ticker symbol “NVNI”.

    If the Company is not in compliance by October 13, 2025, the Company may be afforded a second 180-calendar day compliance period. To qualify for this additional time, the Company will be required to meet the continued listing requirement for market value of publicly held shares and all other initial listing standards for The Nasdaq Capital Market, with the exception of the bid price requirement, and will need to provide written notice of its intention to cure the deficiency during the second compliance period, by effecting a reverse stock split, if necessary. If the Company meets these requirements, Nasdaq will inform the Company that it has been granted an additional 180 calendar days.

    The Company intends to monitor the closing bid price of its ordinary shares between now and October 13, 2025, and will consider available options to resolve the noncompliance with the minimum bid price, including by means of reverse share split approved at the extraordinary shareholders meeting held on March 20, 2025, and MVLS requirements. There can be no assurance that the Company will be able to regain compliance with the minimum bid price or MVLS requirements will otherwise be in compliance with other Nasdaq listing criteria.

    About Nuvini

    Headquartered in São Paulo, Brazil, Nuvini is the leading private serial software business acquirer in Latin America. The Nuvini Group acquires software companies within SaaS markets in Latin America. It focuses on acquiring profitable “business-to-business” SaaS companies with a consolidated business model, recurring revenue, positive cash generation and relevant growth potential. The Nuvini Group enables its acquired companies to provide mission-critical solutions to customers within its industry or sector. Its business philosophy is to invest in established companies and foster an entrepreneurial environment that would enable companies to become leaders in their respective industries. The Nuvini Group’s goal is to buy, retain and create value through long-term partnerships with the existing management of its acquired companies.

    Investor Relations Contact:

    Sofia Toledo
    ir@nuvini.co

    MZ North America
    NVNI@mzgroup.us

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: News release: Collaboration is key at CanREA’s Operators Summit 2025

    Source: – Press Release/Statement:

    Headline: News release: Collaboration is key at CanREA’s Operators Summit 2025

    The fifth edition of Canada’s largest wind, solar and energy-storage operations conference and exhibition galvanizes the operators community.

    Toronto, April 17, 2025—More than 325 people assembled in Toronto this week for the fifth annual CanREA’s Operators Summit, Canada’s largest conference and exhibition devoted to the operation of renewable energy and energy storage sites.

    “The Operators Summit event brings together wind, solar and energy storage operators to learn from each other and improve how they operate facilities across Canada, making them safer, more resilient and more efficient,” said Vittoria Bellissimo, CanREA’s President and CEO. “This year’s event, taking place at such a pivotal time in Canada’s history, forced our industry to reflect on the strong partnerships we will need to continue growing our industry.”

    The Director of CanREA’s Operators Program, Mathieu Côté, put together the conference’s program to appeal to Canada’s operators community, those who manage, operate and maintain this country’s expanding fleet of wind, solar and energy storage assets, delivering the nuts and bolts of Canada’s energy transition.

    “Our theme, Engaging Communities, speaks not only to the importance of collaborating with local and Indigenous communities, but also to the strength of the operational community itself. That kind of engagement builds the resilience of our workforce—and helps ensure our wind, solar and energy storage sector is ready for the future,” said Côté.

    The strategic panel discussions centered around stakeholder engagement, community considerations in emergency response plans, how we should address our workforce needs going forward—one highlight was the launch of Electricity Human Resources (EHRC)’s new labour market analysis report.

    The Summit featured interactive discussions of operators’ experiences in the field and also covered highly technical operations topics, such as optimizing energy storage operations, vegetation management, troubleshooting anomalous gassing in transformers, and bat species protection on wind farms.“The insights we gained at this year’s Ops Summit will not only inform the operators community across Canada but also help shape the future of CanREA’s Operators program,” said Côté.

    CanREA wishes to thank all attendees, exhibitors and event sponsors for helping to make this year’s Operations Summit a success. A special thank you to Health & Safety Sponsor EDF Renewables, Registration Sponsor Nordex, Reception Sponsor Clearlight Energy, Hospitality and Lunch Sponsor Pandell, Mobile App Sponsor Energy Safety Canada, Charging Station Sponsor Goldwind, Bronze Sponsor Pattern Energy and Event Sponsors Aviva, Enercon and Sungrow.

    Don’t miss the Operators Summit 2026! To stay informed, subscribe to Watt’s On, CanREA’s events newsletter.

    Photos

    Photo: More than 325 people attended the fifth annual CanREA’s Operations Summit in Toronto on April 16-17, 2025, a unique conference devoted to the operation of Canada’s renewable energy and energy storage sites.Media can contact CanREA for more high-resolution photos. A photo album from the Summit will be available soon, here.

    Quotes

    “The Operators Summit event brings together wind, solar and energy storage operators to learn from each other and improve how they operate facilities across Canada, making them safer, more resilient and more efficient. This year’s event, taking place at such a pivotal time in Canada’s history, forced our industry to reflect on the strong partnerships we will need to continue growing our industry.” 
    —Vittoria Bellissimo, President and CEO, Canadian Renewable Energy Association

    “Our theme, Engaging Communities, speaks not only to the importance of collaborating with local and Indigenous communities, but also to the strength of the operational community itself. That kind of engagement builds the resilience of our workforce—and helps ensure our wind, solar and energy storage sector is ready for the future. The insights we gained at this year’s Ops Summit will not only inform the operators community across Canada but also help shape the future of CanREA’s Operators program.”
    — Mathieu Côté, Operators Program Director, Canadian Renewable Energy Association

    For media inquiries and interview opportunities, please contact:

    CommunicationsCanadian Renewable Energy Association(613) 805-4465communications@renewablesassociation.ca

    About CanREA

    The Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) is the voice for wind energy, solar energy and energy storage solutions that will power Canada’s energy future. We work to create the conditions for a modern energy system through stakeholder advocacy and public engagement. Our diverse members are uniquely positioned to deliver clean, low-cost, reliable, flexible and scalable solutions for Canada’s energy needs. For more information on how Canada can use wind energy, solar energy and energy storage to help achieve its net-zero commitments, consult “Powering Canada’s Journey to Net-Zero: CanREA’s 2050 Vision.” Follow us on Bluesky and LinkedIn. Subscribe to our newsletter here. Learn more at renewablesassociation.ca. 

    The post News release: Collaboration is key at CanREA’s Operators Summit 2025 appeared first on Canadian Renewable Energy Association.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI USA: US Department of Labor awards $1.5M to provide resources for Fort Bliss service members transitioning to civilian life

    Source: US Department of Labor

    WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor today awarded $1,564,526 to help service members and their spouses transitioning from the military to civilian life. The funding will ensure impacted workers at and around Fort Bliss have uninterrupted access to needed resources, including employment and training services.

    In March 2023, the department’s Employment and Training Administration announced the National Dislocated Worker Grant award of up to approximately $4.7 million, with an initial award of over $1.5 million, to provide resources to eligible service members and their spouses transitioning from the military in El Paso County. A second incremental award was announced in August 2024. With this incremental funding, the total amount awarded for the project is now at the full approved threshold of $4,693,580. 

    This incremental award allows Workforce Solutions Borderplex – one of 28 public workforce development boards in Texas – to continue providing employment and training services to dislocated service members and their spouses in El Paso County. 

    Supported by the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act of 2014, Employment Recovery National Dislocated Worker Grants provide resources for eligible applicants to respond to major economic dislocations and their associated economic impacts, including communities experiencing higher than average demand for assistance from service members and spouses transitioning from the military.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: CENTRE COUNTY – Shapiro Administration to Visit Atlas Biotech in State College, Highlight the Need for Funding to Spur Innovation Across Pennsylvania

    Source: US State of Pennsylvania

    April 18, 2025 – State College, PA

    ADVISORY – CENTRE COUNTY – Shapiro Administration to Visit Atlas Biotech in State College, Highlight the Need for Funding to Spur Innovation Across Pennsylvania

    Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) Secretary Rick Siger will join local leaders at Atlas Biotech to highlight the Shapiro Administration’s commitment to investing in Pennsylvania’s innovation economy.

    Governor Josh Shapiro’s 2025-2026 proposed budget invests $50 million to create the PA Innovation program, which includes a one-time $30 million initiative to spur life sciences job growth and $20 million to provide annual funding to support large-scale innovation.

    WHO:
    Rick Siger, Secretary, DCED
    Josh Reynolds, CEO, Atlas Biotech
    Todd Erdley, Central Region Director, Ben Franklin Technology Partners
    State Representative Paul Takac

    WHEN:
    Friday, April 18, 2025, at 10:00 AM

    WHERE:
    Atlas Biotech, 200 Innovation Boulevard, Suite 260A, State College, PA 16803

    VISUALS:
    Brief formal remarks, followed by a tour of Atlas Biotech’s lab

    MEDIA RSVP:
    Press who are interested in attending should RSVP to dcedpress@pa.gov

    Contact: Justin Backover, dcedpress@pa.gov or 717-418-4014

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Department of Justice Prevails in Landmark Antitrust Case Against Google

    Source: US State of California

    Today the Antitrust Division of the Department of Justice prevailed in its second monopolization case against Google. In United States et al. v. Google, the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia held that Google violated antitrust law by monopolizing open-web digital advertising markets. According to the Court, Google “harmed Google’s publishing customers, the competitive process, and, ultimately, consumers of information on the open web.”   

    “This is a landmark victory in the ongoing fight to stop Google from monopolizing the digital public square,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “This Department of Justice will continue taking bold legal action to protect the American people from encroachments on free speech and free markets by tech companies.”

    “The Court’s ruling is clear: Google is a monopolist and has abused its monopoly power,” said Assistant Attorney General Abigail Slater of the Justice Department’s Antitrust Division. “Google’s unlawful dominance allows them to censor and even deplatform American voices. And at the same time, Google destroyed and hid information that exposed its illegal conduct. Today’s opinion confirms Google’s controlling hand over online advertising and, increasingly, the internet itself. I am extraordinarily proud of the dedicated public servants whose tireless efforts led to today’s decision.”

    Today’s decision follows a 15-day trial in September 2024 in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia. In January 2023, the Justice Department, along with Attorneys General of several states and the Commonwealth of Virginia, filed a civil antitrust lawsuit against Google for monopolizing key digital advertising technologies, referred to as the “ad tech stack,” that website publishers depend on to buy and sell ads that reach millions of customers. As alleged in the complaint, through a series of acquisitions and anticompetitive auction manipulation, Google subverted competition for over 15 years. As a result of Google’s anticompetitive and exclusionary conduct, its ad tech competitors were neutralized or eliminated.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Westhaven Files Technical Report in Support of Updated Preliminary Economic Assessment for the Shovelnose Gold Project, British Columbia

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VANCOUVER, British Columbia, April 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Westhaven Gold Corp. (TSX-V:WHN) (“Westhaven”) announces that it has filed an independent technical report pursuant to National Instrument 43-101 – Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects (“NI 43-101”) supporting the Updated Preliminary Economic Assessment (the “Updated PEA”) for its 100% owned Shovelnose Gold Project, under the Westhaven profile on Sedar+ (www.sedarplus.com). The Company’s news release dated March 3, 2025 summarizes the positive results of the Updated PEA for the Shovelnose Gold Project, located within the prospective Spences Bridge Gold Belt, bordering the Coquihalla Highway approximately 30 kilometres south of Merritt, British Columbia.

    The Technical Report, titled “Updated Preliminary Economic Assessment and Mineral Resource Estimate of the Shovelnose Gold Project, British Columbia” was prepared by James L. Pearson, P.Eng., D. Grant Feasby, P.Eng., Yungang Wu, P.Geo., Antoine Yassa, P.Geo., Brian Ray, P.Geo., Jarita Barry, P.Geo., Alexander Partsch, P.Eng., Dipl.-Ing, MBA, William Stone, Ph.D., P.Geo., and Eugene Puritch, P.Eng., FEC, CET of P&E Mining Consultants Inc., Brampton, Ontario (“P&E”), all Independent Qualified Persons as defined by NI 43-101. The technical report includes descriptions of important assumptions, and the justifications for them, made by the Qualified Persons who prepared the Updated PEA, and upon which the Updated PEA results are based. The Updated PEA is preliminary in nature and includes Inferred Mineral Resources that are considered too speculative geologically to have the economic considerations applied to them that would enable them to be classified as Mineral Reserves, and there is no certainty that the Updated PEA will be realized. Mineral Resources are not Mineral Reserves and do not have demonstrated economic viability. There is no guarantee that Westhaven will be successful in obtaining any or all of the requisite consents, permits or approvals, regulatory or otherwise, for the Shovelnose Gold Project to be placed into production. The Updated PEA has an effective date of February 28, 2025, and the report is dated April 17th, 2025. Mr. Puritch has reviewed and approved the technical contents of this news release.

    The technical report can also be found on the Westhaven website (https://www.westhavengold.com/ ).

    On behalf of the Board of Directors
    WESTHAVEN GOLD CORP.

    “Gareth Thomas”

    Gareth Thomas, President, CEO & Director

    Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

    About Westhaven Gold Corp.

    Westhaven is a gold-focused exploration company targeting low sulphidation, high-grade, epithermal style gold mineralization within Canada’s newest gold district, the Spences Bridge Gold Belt. Westhaven controls ~61,512 hectares (~615 square kilometres) within four gold properties spread along this underexplored belt. The Shovelnose Gold project is the most advance property, with an updated 2025 Preliminary Economic Assessment that validates the Project’s potential as a robust, low cost and high margin 11-year underground gold mining opportunity with average annual life-of-mine gold production of 56,000 ounces and having a Cdn$454 million after-tax NPV6%and 43.2% IRR (base case parameters of US$2400 per ounce gold, US$28 per ounce silver and CDN/US$ exchange rate of $0.72). Initial capital costs are projected to be Cdn$184 million with a payback period of 2.1 years. Please see Westhaven’s news release dated March 3rd, 2025 (Link: March 3, 2025 News Release) details of the updated PEA. Shovelnose is situated off a major highway, near power, rail, large producing mines, pipelines and within commuting distance from the city of Merritt, which translates into low-cost exploration and development. Qualified Person: The technical and scientific information in this news release has been reviewed and approved by Peter Fischl, P.Geo, who is a Qualified Person for the Company under the definitions established by National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects. Westhaven trades on the TSX Venture Exchange under the ticker symbol WHN. For further information, please call 604-681-5558 or visit Westhaven’s website at www.westhavengold.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Video: “It feels like a part of you is being ripped out. You can’t even describe the pain…” – Patty Morin

    Source: United States of America – The White House (video statements)

    “It feels like a part of you is being ripped out. You can’t even describe the pain… Why should we allow people like this—violent criminals—that have no conscience at all to murder our mothers, our sisters, our daughters. I don’t understand.” –Patty Morin

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PdYRXgZCYvk

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Committee on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of their Families Concludes Fortieth Session after Adopting Concluding Observations on the Reports of Jamaica, Mexico and Niger

    Source: United Nations – Geneva

    The Committee on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of their Families this afternoon concluded its fortieth session after adopting concluding observations on the reports of Jamaica, Mexico and Niger.

    The concluding observations will be available on the webpage of the session in the coming days.

    Fatimata Diallo, Committee Chair, reiterated the urgent need to redouble efforts to save lives and protect the human rights of migrants.  Current migration channels were not adapted to new migration patterns, which often pushed migrants through irregular and dangerous routes, where they risked violence, exploitation, abuse, or loss of life.  The year 2023 was the deadliest year in the last decade for migrants using these routes.  Migration issues were cross-cutting across the humanitarian and development fields and should be considered in relevant instruments and forums, including the Global Compact on Refugees, the Global Refugee Forum, the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, and the Sustainable Development Goals.

    As of 21 February 2025, 60 States were parties to the Convention.  The Committee was pleased that, in November 2024, Zimbabwe became the sixtieth State party to the Convention.  The Committee continued its campaign for ratification by raising awareness in collaboration with States parties, the Inter-Parliamentary Union and civil society organizations, and by disseminating its general comments worldwide. While ratification by 60 States was a good start, the Convention remained the least ratified of the core international human rights treaties.  In line with the recommendations of the President of Global Migration Policy Associates, a concerted, organised, well resourced, multi-stakeholder, and independently led campaign was a key means of obtaining more ratifications.

    Ms. Diallo noted that the treaty body system had been affected by chronic resource constraints, in addition to the current liquidity crisis, which prevented this Committee and others from fully implementing their activities.  It was vital that these resources were strengthened.  Despite these constraints, the process of strengthening the treaty bodies had led to significant results, in response to the adoption of General Assembly resolution 68/268.  At the Meeting of Chairpersons of Treaty Bodies in June this year, States were urged to approve the introduction of a predictable eight-year review timetable, with follow-up reviews in between.  It was regrettable that the resolution recently adopted in New York did not take into account the recommendations on the foreseeable eight-year timetable, including on the harmonisation of the working methods of the Committees.

    Ms. Diallo commended the Governments of Jamaica, Mexico and Niger, whose reports were reviewed this session, for their commitment to and participation in the dialogue.  Also during the session, the Committee adopted the list of issues for Tajikistan, in relation to its third periodic report, as well as the lists of issues prior to reporting for Fiji, Guinea and Ecuador in relation to their initial, second and fourth periodic reports respectively.

    The Chair then briefed the Committee on other activities which were undertaken during the session.  The Committee had held collaborative dialogues with the International Labour Organization, the Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, and the Committee against Torture.  On 15 April, the Committee held a public side event to launch the general comment on the convergent protection of the rights of migrant workers and members of their families through the Convention and the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration, with participation from States, United Nations agencies, and civil society. 

    Finally, the Committee adopted the draft annual report covering the thirty-ninth and fortieth sessions, as well as intersessional activities.  Ms. Diallo thanked all Committee members and members of the Secretariat for their commitment to what had been a busy and successful session.

    The forty-first session of the Committee is scheduled to be held in December 2025 in Geneva.

    ___________

    Produced by the United Nations Information Service in Geneva for use of the media; 
    not an official record. English and French versions of our releases are different as they are the product of two separate coverage teams that work independently.

     

    CMW25.006E

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Bonta: Latent Print Match Leads to an Arrest in a 2016 Cold Case Homicide

    Source: US State of California

    Thursday, April 17, 2025

    Contact: (916) 210-6000, agpressoffice@doj.ca.gov

    FRESNO— California Attorney General Rob Bonta and Fresno Police Chief Mindy Casto today announced the California Department of Justice (DOJ) provided a latent print match that has led to an arrest for the brutal 2016 murder of 68-year-old Gurcharan Singh Gill who was stabbed to death while he worked at a Central Fresno convenience store.
     
    “I am incredibly proud of the endless hours of behind the scenes work our Bureau of Forensic Services put into this case,” said Attorney General Rob Bonta. “We are hopeful that this arrest will bring justice and closure to this devastating case. Thank you to our partners at Fresno Police Department Office and the Fresno County District Attorney’s Office. This arrest proves that when we work together, we get results.”
     
    “This case is a powerful example of collaboration. The California Department of Justice was instrumental in the investigation of this murder,” said Fresno Police Chief Mindy Casto. “From their initial response to the crime scene the night of the murder, to the relentless work of their forensic experts that was instrumental in identifying our suspect through latent print analysis — a breakthrough that revived a 2016 homicide investigation. Without the dedication and expertise of DOJ personnel, we wouldn’t be here today announcing this progress.”

    “Mr. Gill was the victim of a senseless and violent act, and for nearly a decade, his family has carried the weight of unanswered questions,” said Fresno County District Attoreny Lisa Smittcamp. “Today, we announce criminal charges that represent a significant step toward justice. This outcome is the result of an unwavering commitment by our office, in close coordination with the Attorney General’s Office, the FPD, and the Department of Justice’s forensic team, whose recent identification of a fingerprint match at the crime scene was pivotal. Although the defendant was a juvenile at the time of the offense, the severity of this crime demands accountability. We will continue to pursue justice to the fullest extent of the law, regardless of how much time has passed.”
     
    On New Years Day, an unknown suspect entered the Fresno convenience store that Mr. Gill was working at. The suspect beat and stabbed Mr. Gill then robbed the store. Once Fresno Police Department arrived, Mr. Gill had succumbed to his injuries and DOJ was called to process the scene for physical evidence. According to surveillance video, the suspect was seen placing his palm on the glass countertop in the store and touching many surfaces. DOJ was able to obtain latent prints and DNA, but they yielded no matches in the respective databases.
     
    Recently, the suspect got arrested in Stanislaus County and his palm prints were collected. After nine years, there was finally a match. Fresno Police Department located the suspect in Modesto area, and he has been arrested. The case is being prosecuted by the Fresno County District Attorney’s Office. 
     
    A fact sheet outlining the work of the DOJ Bureau of Forensic Services can be found here.
     
     
     

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Lawler Calls Out Schumer’s Shameful Lies And Failed Service After 50 Years in Elected Office

    Source: US Congressman Mike Lawler (R, NY-17)

    Pearl River, N.Y. – 4/17/2025… Today, in response to Minority Leader Chuck Schumer’s rally in Rockland County, where he falsely – and without evidence – accused Congressman Mike Lawler of cutting Medicaid, Rep. Lawler called Sen. Schumer “an inveterate liar” with a shameful record of putting partisan politics ahead of what’s best for New Yorkers. 

    “When Chuck Schumer got to Washington, D.C., our national debt was less than one trillion dollars, and today it’s $36 trillion and climbing with no end in sight. Any New Yorker – including the press – who takes him seriously on budget and spending issues should have their head examined,” said Rep. Lawler. “After 50 years in elected office, I wouldn’t trust Chuck Schumer to run a lemonade stand, let alone the federal government. No wonder he’s petrified of AOC.”

    Rep. Lawler specifically refuted bogus claims made by Sen. Schumer related to Medicaid. 

    “I have never and will never vote to cut Medicaid benefits for eligible recipients who rely on this program. Period. Full stop. Any accusation to the contrary is a lie and Sen. Schumer knows it,” added Rep. Lawler. “The difference between Sen. Schumer and me is that he wants to continue wasting billions of dollars providing Medicaid to illegal immigrants, who should be cut off immediately, and able-bodied young adults who would rather scam the system than try to find a job. Schumer is the reason our country is going broke, and New Yorkers pay the nation’s highest taxes. Instead of lying about me, he should be forced to answer for that.”

    Rep. Lawler also criticized Schumer over a host of other key issues. 

    Notably, that Senator Schumer blocked the Antisemitism Awareness Act during the 118th Congress, legislation that garnered overwhelming bipartisan support in the House, which combats the alarming rise in antisemitism nationwide. Schumer reportedly caved to pressure from the radical fringe of his party, choosing party politics over protecting Jewish communities.

    That Schumer was unable to advance any funding bills last year, forcing the House into repeated Continuing Resolutions for FY2025. As a result, important projects in New York, like clean water upgrades, public safety programs, and infrastructure improvements, have since been delayed.

    “When you look up ‘failed career politician’ in the dictionary, Sen. Schumer’s picture should be right next to it,” concluded Rep. Lawler. 

    Congressman Lawler is one of the most bipartisan members of Congress and represents New York’s 17th Congressional District, which is just north of New York City and contains all or parts of Rockland, Putnam, Dutchess, and Westchester Counties. He was rated the most effective freshman lawmaker in the 118th Congress, 8th overall, surpassing dozens of committee chairs.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: How does your brain create new memories? Neuroscientists discover ‘rules’ for how neurons encode new information

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By William Wright, Postdoctoral Scholar in Neurobiology, University of California, San Diego

    Neurons that fire together sometimes wire together. PASIEKA/Science Photo Library via Getty Images

    Every day, people are constantly learning and forming new memories. When you pick up a new hobby, try a recipe a friend recommended or read the latest world news, your brain stores many of these memories for years or decades.

    But how does your brain achieve this incredible feat?

    In our newly published research in the journal Science, we have identified some of the “rules” the brain uses to learn.

    Learning in the brain

    The human brain is made up of billions of nerve cells. These neurons conduct electrical pulses that carry information, much like how computers use binary code to carry data.

    These electrical pulses are communicated with other neurons through connections between them called synapses. Individual neurons have branching extensions known as dendrites that can receive thousands of electrical inputs from other cells. Dendrites transmit these inputs to the main body of the neuron, where it then integrates all these signals to generate its own electrical pulses.

    It is the collective activity of these electrical pulses across specific groups of neurons that form the representations of different information and experiences within the brain.

    Neurons are the basic units of the brain.
    OpenStax, CC BY-SA

    For decades, neuroscientists have thought that the brain learns by changing how neurons are connected to one another. As new information and experiences alter how neurons communicate with each other and change their collective activity patterns, some synaptic connections are made stronger while others are made weaker. This process of synaptic plasticity is what produces representations of new information and experiences within your brain.

    In order for your brain to produce the correct representations during learning, however, the right synaptic connections must undergo the right changes at the right time. The “rules” that your brain uses to select which synapses to change during learning – what neuroscientists call the credit assignment problem – have remained largely unclear.

    Defining the rules

    We decided to monitor the activity of individual synaptic connections within the brain during learning to see whether we could identify activity patterns that determine which connections would get stronger or weaker.

    To do this, we genetically encoded biosensors in the neurons of mice that would light up in response to synaptic and neural activity. We monitored this activity in real time as the mice learned a task that involved pressing a lever to a certain position after a sound cue in order to receive water.

    We were surprised to find that the synapses on a neuron don’t all follow the same rule. For example, scientists have often thought that neurons follow what are called Hebbian rules, where neurons that consistently fire together, wire together. Instead, we saw that synapses on different locations of dendrites of the same neuron followed different rules to determine whether connections got stronger or weaker. Some synapses adhered to the traditional Hebbian rule where neurons that consistently fire together strengthen their connections. Other synapses did something different and completely independent of the neuron’s activity.

    Our findings suggest that neurons, by simultaneously using two different sets of rules for learning across different groups of synapses, rather than a single uniform rule, can more precisely tune the different types of inputs they receive to appropriately represent new information in the brain.

    In other words, by following different rules in the process of learning, neurons can multitask and perform multiple functions in parallel.

    Future applications

    This discovery provides a clearer understanding of how the connections between neurons change during learning. Given that most brain disorders, including degenerative and psychiatric conditions, involve some form of malfunctioning synapses, this has potentially important implications for human health and society.

    For example, depression may develop from an excessive weakening of the synaptic connections within certain areas of the brain that make it harder to experience pleasure. By understanding how synaptic plasticity normally operates, scientists may be able to better understand what goes wrong in depression and then develop therapies to more effectively treat it.

    Changes to connections in the amygdala – colored green – are implicated in depression.
    William J. Giardino/Luis de Lecea Lab/Stanford University via NIH/Flickr, CC BY-NC

    These findings may also have implications for artificial intelligence. The artificial neural networks underlying AI have largely been inspired by how the brain works. However, the learning rules researchers use to update the connections within the networks and train the models are usually uniform and also not biologically plausible. Our research may provide insights into how to develop more biologically realistic AI models that are more efficient, have better performance, or both.

    There is still a long way to go before we can use this information to develop new therapies for human brain disorders. While we found that synaptic connections on different groups of dendrites use different learning rules, we don’t know exactly why or how. In addition, while the ability of neurons to simultaneously use multiple learning methods increases their capacity to encode information, what other properties this may give them isn’t yet clear.

    Future research will hopefully answer these questions and further our understanding of how the brain learns.

    William Wright receives funding from National Institutes of Health (NINDS) and the Schmidt Sciences Foundation.

    Takaki Komiyama receives funding from NIH, NSF, Simons Foundation, Chan Zuckerberg Initiative, and Kavli Institute for Brain and Mind.

    – ref. How does your brain create new memories? Neuroscientists discover ‘rules’ for how neurons encode new information – https://theconversation.com/how-does-your-brain-create-new-memories-neuroscientists-discover-rules-for-how-neurons-encode-new-information-254558

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Secretary Wright Joins FOX New’s Bill Hemmer & Dana Perino – April 17, 2025

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5bbgwZXXtBI

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: NASA Astronaut Don Pettit Turns the Camera on Science

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    NASA astronaut Don Pettit is scheduled to return home in mid-April 2025 after a seven-month mission aboard the International Space Station as part of Expedition 72. Throughout his stay, Pettit contributed to research that benefits humanity and future space missions, and delighted photography enthusiasts around the world with his unique point of view.

    Pettit also shared what he calls his “science of opportunity” to demonstrate how experimenting with our surroundings can help gain a better understanding of how things work. This understanding is enhanced when art, science, and microgravity come together.

    More: https://go.nasa.gov/3RmKPB9
    Download: https://images.nasa.gov/details/Don_Pettit_Science

    Credit: NASA
    Producer: Nicole Rose
    Music: Universal Production Music

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rc02JNRyG6g

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: NASA Astronaut Don Pettit Soyuz MS-26 Undocking

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    Watch as NASA astronaut Don Pettit, along with Roscosmos cosmonauts Alexey Ovchinin and Ivan Vagner, undock from the International Space Station and begin their voyage back to Earth.

    The Soyuz MS-26 spacecraft is set to undock from the space station at 5:57 p.m. EDT (2157 UTC), heading for a parachute-assisted landing at 9:20 p.m. EDT (0120 UTC or 6:20 a.m. Kazakhstan time, Sunday, April 20) on the steppes of Kazakhstan, southeast of the town of Dzhezkazgan. Landing will occur on Pettit’s 70th birthday.

    See our full schedule for MS-26’s return: https://go.nasa.gov/3Eg3z2l
    Follow the ISS blog for the latest updates: https://www.nasa.gov/blogs/spacestation/

    Credit: NASA

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MXzy9GahNHE

    MIL OSI Video –