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Category: Business

  • MIL-OSI Global: Why the future of workplace mental health support may be self-guided online tools

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Ehsan Etezad, PhD Candidate in Applied Organizational Psychology, Saint Mary’s University

    As the gap between what employees need and what is available to them, businesses are recognizing that conventional methods are no longer cutting it. (Shutterstock)

    Employee mental health, once a silent and often overlooked issue, has now become an urgent workplace concern. In Canada, the rate of depression and anxiety has doubled since the COVID-19 pandemic.

    The Mental Health Commission of Canada reports that one in five adults experiences mental illness, but stigma remains a significant barrier, with 60 per cent of those affected choosing not to seek help.

    These mental health challenges directly translate to workforce challenges: 7.5 per cent of employees have taken time off because of stress or mental health concerns, leading to an average loss of 2.4 work days per employee.

    With 77 per cent of employees acknowledging that work-related stress adversely affects their physical health, the demand for innovative wellness solutions has never been greater.

    Traditional mental health support is falling short

    For decades, employers have relied on employee assistance programs to address the mental health needs of their employees.

    These programs typically refer individuals to short-term counselling, which can be effective for immediate concerns. However, their overall impact remains limited, with usage rates hovering around five per cent across industries.

    Traditional counselling is also expensive, with waitlists that can stretch for weeks, and may require employees to take time off during work hours, which many avoid due to fear of stigma or judgment.

    One in five adults experiences mental illness.
    (Shutterstock)

    Stigma associated with seeking traditional counselling has left many mental health challenges unaddressed until they escalate to burnout, presenteeism, absenteeism, turnover or mental health disability leave.

    As the gap between what employees need and what is available to them widens, businesses are recognizing that conventional methods are no longer providing the accessible and responsive care that today’s workforce demands.

    Single-session digital interventions

    Many mental health interventions have demonstrated remarkable success with just a single, well-designed session. This offers intriguing evidence and sets the stage for an innovative advancement in mental-health care. The research has shown that, when carefully crafted, single-session interventions may serve as an efficient and scalable alternative to multi-week commitments, especially when access to therapy is limited.

    Self-guided single-session digital interventions (SSDIs) are carefully crafted, evidence-based programs designed to require only one focused interaction with a digital platform.

    Unlike the traditional one-size-fits-all model, SSDIs are personalized and can adapt content based on individual responses and needs.

    For instance, an employee struggling with insomnia might receive cognitive-behavioral techniques specifically aimed at improving sleep, while a manager experiencing burnout could access modules for building resilience and managing work stress.

    The strength of SSDIs lies in their accessibility, adaptability, immediacy, affordability, scalability and confidentiality. They offer practical strategies without the prolonged wait times of traditional therapy.

    A growing body of research supports the effectiveness of single-session digital interventions as effective tools for initiating meaningful change.

    Research into single-session digital interventions is still in its early stages, but the available evidence suggests they can be both effective and highly scalable. This is particularly important at a time when access to traditional therapy is often limited by a lack of resources.

    Real-world examples of digital tools

    The growing success of SSDIs can be seen in a number of real-world programs that translate these principles into practical, measurable outcomes. Although these initiatives are not yet publicly available, they were successful in demonstrating early positive results during the initial research phases:

    1. Happy@Work

    Happy@Work is an online, guided self-help intervention designed for employees experiencing symptoms of depression. Drawing on both problem-solving therapy and cognitive therapy, it addresses areas ranging from learning problem-solving methods and identifying maladaptive thoughts to managing work-related challenges and preventing relapse.

    Each lesson combines psychoeducation, structured exercises and personalized feedback. The program also incorporates stress management and burnout prevention techniques with the goal of bolstering employees’ psychological wellness.

    In a randomized controlled trial, Happy@Work showed small but statistically significant benefits in reducing anxiety and exhaustion among the participants.

    2. Three Good Things

    Three Good Things is a digital gratitude-based intervention designed to enhance well-being among healthcare workers.

    Participants receive three text messages each week that prompt them to record and reflect on three positive experiences from their day. This structured reflection is intended to amplify positive emotions and nurture a sense of gratitude.

    A randomized controlled trial found that Three Good Things produced small and short-term increases in positive emotions among participants.

    77 per cent of employees acknowledging that work-related stress adversely affects their physical health.
    (Shutterstock)

    3. Beating the Blues

    Beating the Blues is a structured cognitive behavioural therapy program targeted at employees dealing with stress-related absenteeism.

    It guides participants through techniques like cognitive restructuring to challenge unhelpful thoughts, problem-solving skills, relaxation training and behavioural activation to organize daily activities. It also addresses sleep management and introduces graded exposure to reduce anxiety.

    A randomized controlled trial found that Beating the Blues successfully reduced depression symptoms and negative attributional styles immediately following the treatment, with lower anxiety scores noted one month post-treatment.

    Why these digital interventions work

    Digital mental health interventions are proving to be effective for a number of reasons:

    1. They break the stigma cycle

    Digital self-help tools offer a discreet and accessible way for employees to address mental challenges, allowing individuals to engage anonymously and at any time, on their own schedule.

    And, since these tools are available online and can be used anonymously, they offer an added layer of privacy and comfort. This flexibility helps minimize the stigma often linked to taking time off for traditional counselling sessions.

    2. They are cost-effective and scalable

    Traditional employee mental health programs, which often rely on therapist-centred models, can be prohibitively expensive and difficult to scale. By contrast, SSDIs provide an accessible solution that significantly reduces the financial burden on businesses and employees. Their digital format ensures support is available 24/7, providing employees with immediate access to help at a fraction of the cost of conventional approaches.

    3. They deliver rapid and measurable results

    When it comes to addressing burnout and other workplace mental health challenges. SSDIs provide quick access to coping strategies and stress relief techniques, helping employees strengthen their psychological well-being before issues escalate as an effective preventive tool.

    The future of workplace mental health is digital. Self-guided single-session digital mental health interventions offer a pragmatic and immediate way to reduce stigma, cut costs and foster resilience. These tools can complement and integrate with traditional therapy to provide employees with an accessible and immediate resource to help them cope with stress and build resilience.

    Ehsan Etezad provides private consulting at MEUS Science with a focus on Workplace Wellness & Psychological Health & Safety.

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

    – ref. Why the future of workplace mental health support may be self-guided online tools – https://theconversation.com/why-the-future-of-workplace-mental-health-support-may-be-self-guided-online-tools-254271

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: CFTC’s Energy and Environmental Markets Advisory Committee to Meet May 28

    Source: US Commodity Futures Trading Commission

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — CFTC Commissioner Summer K. Mersinger, sponsor of the Energy and Environmental Markets Advisory Committee, today announced that the EEMAC will hold a virtual public meeting Wednesday, May 28 from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. EDT. Members of the public may also attend the meeting. 
    At this meeting, the EEMAC will discuss a report written and approved by EEMAC Role of Metals Markets in Transitional Energy Subcommittee. A committee vote to advance the subcommittee’s report to the Commission will follow. The EEMAC will also get a presentation of and discuss the EEMAC Physical Energy Infrastructure Subcommittee report. agenda for this meeting is forthcoming. For agenda updates and more information about this advisory committee, including its members, please visit EEMAC.
    “I am truly grateful to the members of both Subcommittees for their hard work and diligence in writing these reports.” said Commissioner Mersinger. “The issues and topics addressed by both Subcommittees are multifaceted and complex — having a direct impact on the everyday prices of the energy that we use and food we consume. The issues tackled in these reports affect every American household, highlighting the importance of the Subcommittees’ work over the last year.”
    Members of the public may watch a live webcast or listen to the meeting via conference call using a domestic or international number to connect to a live, listen-only audio feed. People requiring special accommodations to attend the meeting because of a disability should notify Lauren Fulks, the EEMAC Secretary, at (816) 787-6297 or [email protected].

    What:

    Energy and Environmental Markets Advisory Committee Meeting 

    Location
    (In-person/virtual):

    *Virtual instructions below
     

    When:
     

    Wednesday, May 28, 2025
    12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. (EDT) 
     

    Viewing/Listening Instructions: To access the live meeting feed, use the dial-in numbers below or stream on CFTC.gov. A live feed can also be streamed through the CFTC’s YouTube channel. Call-in participants should be prepared to provide their first name, last name, and affiliation, if applicable. Materials presented at the meeting, if any, will be made on cftc.gov.

    Instructions:

    Domestic Toll-Free Numbers:
     
    Domestic Toll Numbers:

    1-833-568-8864 or 1-833-435-1820 
    +1 669 254 5252 US (San Jose)
    +1 646 828 7666 US (New York)
    +1 646 964 1167 US (US Spanish Line)
    +1 669 216 1590 US (San Jose)
    +1 415 449 4000 US (US Spanish Line)
    +1 551 285 1373 US (New Jersey)
       

    International Numbers:
    International Numbers

    Webinar ID:

    Passcode:

    160 295 4046

    762417

    Members of the public can submit written statements in connection with the meeting by June 4, 2025. Submit public comments at CFTC.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments through the Comments Online process. If you are unable to submit comments online, contact Lauren Fulks, EEMAC Secretary, via the contact information above to discuss alternative means to submit comments. Any statements submitted in connection with the committee meeting will be made available to the public, including publication on CFTC.gov. Written statements should have “Energy and Environmental Markets Advisory Committee” as the title on any statement. 
    There are five active advisory committees overseen by the CFTC. They were created to provide advice and recommendations to the Commission on a variety of regulatory and market issues that affect the integrity and competitiveness of U.S. markets. These advisory committees facilitate communication between the Commission and market participants, other regulators, and academics. The views, opinions, and information expressed by the advisory committees are solely those of the respective advisory committee and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Commission, its staff, or the U.S. government.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Crapo Statement at Executive Session to Consider CBP Commissioner Nomination

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Idaho Mike Crapo

    Washington, D.C.–U.S. Senate Finance Committee Chairman Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) delivered the following remarks at an executive session to consider the nomination of Rodney Scott to be U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Commissioner.
    As prepared for delivery:
    “We meet today to consider favorably reporting the nomination of Rodney Scott to be Commissioner of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP).
    “As we have done with other nominees, the meeting this morning will provide members with the opportunity to offer remarks on Mr. Scott’s nomination.  We will notify members of a time and location later today to conduct the vote. 
    “At his hearing, Mr. Scott outlined his vision to empower the CBP workforce through revamped training, an expansion of resources and modernized processes to enhance efficiency.  I look forward to working with him, if confirmed, to ensure CBP is focused on border security, national security, the flow of legitimate trade, and enforcement of U.S. trade laws.
    “Mr. Scott’s 29 years of service to the U.S. Border Patrol and our country makes him duly qualified to oversee CBP, one of the world’s largest law enforcement agencies.
    “Mr. Scott knows what policies make CBP effective, and I am confident he will implement these policies as soon as he is confirmed.
    “I will vote in favor of his nomination, and I encourage my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to do the same.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Mexco Energy Corporation Declares Dividend on Common Shares

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MIDLAND, TX, May 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Mexco Energy Corporation (NYSE American: MXC) announced today that its Board of Directors declared a regular annual cash dividend of $0.10 per common share. The dividend is payable June 16, 2025 to the stockholders of record at the close of business on June 2, 2025.

    Mexco Energy Corporation, a Colorado corporation, is an independent oil and gas company located in Midland, Texas engaged in the acquisition, exploration and development of oil and gas properties primarily in the Permian Basin. For more information on Mexco Energy Corporation, go to www.mexcoenergy.com.

    Dividends are authorized and determined by the Company’s Board of Directors in its sole discretion. Decisions regarding the payment of dividends are subject to a number of considerations at the time, including without limitation, the Company’s liquidity and capital resources, the Company’s results of operations and anticipated future results of operations, the level of cash reserves the Company maintains to fund future capital expenditures or other needs, and other factors that the Board of Directors deems relevant. The Company can provide no assurance that dividends will be authorized or declared in the future or the amount of any future dividends.

    For additional information, please contact: Tammy L. McComic, President and Chief Financial Officer, at Mexco Energy Corporation, (432) 682-1119.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: ACP Names Artealia Gilliard as Chief Communications Officer

    Source: American Clean Power Association (ACP)

    Headline: ACP Names Artealia Gilliard as Chief Communications Officer

    WASHINGTON D.C., May 13, 2025 — The American Clean Power Association (ACP) today announced that Artealia Gilliard will join the organization as Chief Communications Officer. With over 20 years of experience in strategic communications, public policy, and energy sector leadership, Gilliard will guide the association’s communications efforts to advance American energy production and domestic manufacturing growth as the industry positions itself to meet America’s growing demand.
    “Clean energy is leading an all of the above American energy renaissance, but polarized politics remain an obstacle to achieving our economic and security interests,” said Jason Grumet, ACP’s Chief Executive Officer. “Artealia has a strong track record of building consensus and connecting intricate policy issues to everyday American values. She also understands that reliable, affordable, domestic energy isn’t just good policy—it’s good business and good for communities.”
    Gilliard has experience leading organizations in the public, private and non-profit sectors. Most recently, Gilliard was head of environmental and sustainability communications and advocacy at Ford Motor Company, where she helped communicate the company’s energy innovation initiatives and American manufacturing investments. Her previous roles include Director of Communications at Columbia University’s Center on Global Energy Policy and Deputy Assistant Secretary of Transportation Policy at the Department of Transportation, where she worked on energy issues.
    “I am honored to join the American Clean Power Association at such a critical time for America’s energy future. The clean power industry is driving economic growth, creating jobs, and strengthening communities across the country,” said Artealia Gilliard. “I look forward to working with ACP’s members and stakeholders to tell the compelling story of how American-made clean energy is building a more secure, prosperous, and sustainable future for all Americans.”

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warren Demands Health and Human Services Nominee Erase Ethics Conflicts with Pharmaceutical, Biotech Companies

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren
    May 13, 2025
    As RFK Jr.’s Deputy, O’Neill would have insight and influence over FDA approvals
    “Your relationships with biomedical companies regulated by HHS will raise concerns about your impartiality in this role”
    Text of Letter (PDF)
    Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) wrote to Mr. James O’Neill, nominee for Deputy Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), asking him to recuse himself from matters involving companies he has worked with, given many of those companies may seek the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) regulatory approval during his tenure. Senator Warren also asked Mr. O’Neill to commit not to take a job in the industries regulated by HHS for at least four years after leaving office and not to lobby HHS for at least four years after leaving office. The Senate Finance Committee will vote on advancing O’Neill’s nomination on Thursday, May 15, 2025. 
    O’Neill, a “close ally” of Trump-backer Peter Thiel, once managed one of Thiel’s venture capital firms, Mithril Capital Management, where he invested in biotech companies developing medical robots, diabetes treatments, antibody technologies, and more. Some of these companies are now seeking FDA approval. After O’Neill left the company, the Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated the firm for potentially defrauding its investors. 
    As Deputy HHS Secretary, O’Neill would have insight into and influence over the FDA’s approvals process and could potentially sway HHS’s decision-making to favor companies with which he has worked. O’Neill advises and serves on the board of ADvantage Therapeutics, a pharmaceutical company developing an Alzheimer’s drug that will require FDA approval. He has agreed to recuse from matters related to ADvantage for one year (or two years if he receives a bonus from the company), but “after just one or two years, [his] relationship with the company will remain fresh enough to raise serious impartiality concerns.” Given that, Senator Warren urged, “To mitigate even the appearance of a conflict of interest, you should agree to recuse for four years from [matters related to the company].”
    Former HHS officials, including former FDA Commissioner Robert Califf and NIH Director Monica Bertagnolli, agreed to recuse themselves from their former clients’ matters for four years — beyond the two-year recusal required by the Biden administration. 
    O’Neill’s ties to the pharmaceutical industry also raise concerns about his post-government employment prospects. As a result, Senator Warren asked him to commit not to work for any company he regulates or otherwise interacts with during his time at HHS for four years after leaving government service. 
    If O’Neill were to take a job in the industry, “the public would reasonably question whether the decisions [he] made in office were influenced by the prospect of future compensation from a company [he] regulated,” said Senator Warren. 
    “The public may also question whether you were cashing in on your executive-branch connections and government expertise to help your new company benefit from insider information to skirt rules that you helped oversee or to curry favor with HHS and/or its subagencies,” the senator continued. 
    Senator Warren reminded O’Neill that both former FDA Commissioner Califf and former NIH Director Monica Bertagnolli agreed to these post-government employment restrictions. Even HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who refused to give up some of his egregious conflicts, still agreed not to work for a drug company after leaving office. 
    Finally, to mitigate concerns about the revolving door of former government officials lobbying the agencies they once led, Senator Warren pushed O’Neill to commit not to lobby HHS for four years after leaving office, similar to the agreements made by multiple Biden appointees, including Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, Internal Revenue Service Chief Counsel Marjorie Rollinson, and Treasury Assistant Secretary for Investment Security Paul Rosen.
    “The rampant revolving door of former government leaders lobbying the agencies they once led, while their government relationships remain fresh, erodes Americans’ faith in the federal government,” said Senator Warren. 
    Senator Warren asked O’Neill to answer these ethics commitment requests on the record, including whether he plans to accept any future payment from the companies he’s tied to, by May 14, 2025. 
    Senator Warren has been a leader on enforcing government ethics standards and pressing nominees to address conflicts of interest: 
    In March 2025, Senator Elizabeth Warren wrote to Marty Makary and Jay Bhattacharya, nominees to lead the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the National Institutes of Health (NIH), respectively, asking them to address their conflicts of interest ahead of their confirmation hearings.
    In February 2025, Senator Elizabeth Warren and Tim Kaine (D-Va.) called on Mr. Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to recuse himself from former clients’ and employers’ particular matters and commit to not lobbying HHS after his tenure as Secretary.
    In February 2025, following the Senate Finance Committee vote to advance the nomination of Mr. Robert F. Kennedy Jr. for Secretary of Health and Human Services, Senator Elizabeth Warren gave remarks regarding the nominee’s continued conflicts of interest. 
    In February 2025, Senators Warren and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Ranking Member on the Senate Finance Committee, wrote to Mr. Robert F. Kennedy Jr., pressing him to urgently resolve his serious conflicts of interest before the committee vote Wednesday morning.
    In January 2025, following pressure from Senate Democrats, Mr. Robert F. Kennedy Jr. agreed to amend his flawed ethics agreement (see Warren QFRs at the end of Part 2 and start of Part 3).
    In January 2025, at a hearing of the Senate Finance Committee, Senator Elizabeth Warren questioned Mr. Robert F. Kennedy Jr., nominee for Secretary of Health and Human Services, about his dangerous conflicts of interest and record of profiting from anti-vaccine conspiracies.
    In January 2025, ahead of Mr. Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s confirmation hearing for Secretary of Health and Human Services, Senator Elizabeth Warren sent a 34-page letter detailing her concerns with his nomination and asked him to answer 175 questions ahead of his hearing before the Finance Committee.
    In January 2025, Senator Elizabeth Warren wrote to Trump Transition Co-Chairs Howard Lutnick and Linda McMahon, urging them to make the White House’s ethics pledge for incoming appointees as strong as possible and outlining specific provisions to do so. The letter came at the end of the first week of confirmation hearings for President-elect Trump’s cabinet nominees, many of whom have been found to have serious conflicts of interest and massive wealth.
    In December 2024, Senators Elizabeth Warren, Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), and Representative Lloyd Doggett (D-Texas) wrote to Dr. Mehmet Oz, President-elect Donald Trump’s pick to lead the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, raising stark concerns about his advocacy to eliminate traditional Medicare and his deep financial ties to the private health insurers that would benefit from that move.
    In November 2024, in response to the news that President-elect Donald Trump selected Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to serve as Secretary of Health and Human Services, Senator Elizabeth Warren released a statement calling him a “danger to public health, scientific research, medicine, and health care coverage for millions of Americans.”
    In January 2022, Senator Elizabeth Warren secured a commitment from then-FDA Commissioner nominee Dr. Robert Califf to recuse himself from matters involving his former employers and clients for four years, two years longer than what was required in the Biden administration’s Ethics Pledge. He also agreed not to seek employment with or compensation, including as a result of board service, from any pharmaceutical or medical device company that he interacts with during his tenure as FDA Commissioner for four years after completing his government service. 
    In December 2020, Senator Elizabeth Warren and Representative Jayapal introduced the Anti-Corruption and Public Integrity Act, the most ambitious anti-corruption legislation since Watergate, which would outlaw corrupt revolving-door schemes so that public servants are serving the public – not the financial interests of themselves or giant corporations.
    In March 2020, President Trump signed the bipartisan Presidential Transition Enhancement Act into law, which included major provisions of Sen. Warren’s (D-Mass.) Transition Team Ethics Improvement Act.
    In September 2019, the Senate passed a key provision of the Transition Team Ethics Improvement Act introduced by Senators Warren and Tom Carper (D-Del.) to enhance the ethics requirements that govern presidential transitions.
    In November 2016, as President Trump prepared to take office, Senator Elizabeth Warren and Chairman Cummings requested a GAO investigation of the chaotic Trump transition. In September 2017, Government Accountability Office (GAO) released the results of the investigation, finding that the Trump transition team ignored advice from the Office of Government Ethics and failed to follow past precedents regarding ethics and presidential transitions.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Publication of financial reports: Federal Office of Justice imposes disciplinary fine on VARTA AKTIENGESELLSCHAFT

    Source: Bundesanstalt für Finanzdienstleistungsaufsicht – In English

    The disciplinary fine order related to a breach of section 325 of the German Commercial Code (Handelsgesetzbuch – HGB). VARTA AKTIENGESELLSCHAFT failed to submit its accounting documents for the financial year 2023 for the purpose of disclosure to the operator of the German Federal Gazette (Bundesanzeiger) in electronic form. The legal basis for the sanction is section 335 of the HGB.

    The company lodged an appeal against the Federal Office of Justice’s decision to impose a disciplinary fine.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NORTHUMBERLAND COUNTY – Pennsylvania Department of Aging to Announce $3 Million Investment in Senior Community Centers to Benefit Older Pennsylvanians and Keep Them Connected in Their Communities

    Source: US State of Pennsylvania

    May 14, 2025 – Herndon, PA

    ADVISORY – NORTHUMBERLAND COUNTY – Pennsylvania Department of Aging to Announce $3 Million Investment in Senior Community Centers to Benefit Older Pennsylvanians and Keep Them Connected in Their Communities

    Pennsylvania Department of Aging Secretary Jason Kavulich will join Northumberland County leaders to announce the recipients of $3 million in Senior Community Center (SCC) competitive grants that help those centers complete larger-scale projects such as updating and modernizing facilities, providing new health and entertainment programs, upgrading technology, and enhancing nutrition services.

    SCCs throughout Pennsylvania welcome thousands of older adults through their doors every day with services that help them stay healthy and connected to their communities: nutritious meals, educational opportunities, transportation services, financial and insurance counseling, and exercise programs.

    The grant funding is appropriated by the General Assembly from the Pennsylvania Lottery.

    WHO:
    Secretary of Aging Jason Kavulich
    Northumberland County Commissioners Sam Schiccatano and Meghan Beck
    Olivia Sims, Administrator, Northumberland County Area Agency on Aging
    Erica Miller, Director, Herndon Adult Community Center

    WHEN:
    Wednesday, May 14, 2025, 12:00 PM

    WHERE:
    Herndon Adult Community Center
    5089 State Route 147
    Herndon, PA 17830

    MEDIA RSVP:
    Media interested in attending must RSVP with the name of photographer/reporter to

      • Full Advisory

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Publication of financial reports: Federal Office of Justice imposes disciplinary fine on VARTA AKTIENGESELLSCHAFT

    Source: Bundesanstalt für Finanzdienstleistungsaufsicht – In English

    The disciplinary fine order related to a breach of section 325 of the German Commercial Code (Handelsgesetzbuch – HGB). VARTA AKTIENGESELLSCHAFT failed to submit its consolidated accounting documents for the financial year 2023 for the purpose of disclosure to the operator of the German Federal Gazette (Bundesanzeiger) in electronic form. The legal basis for the sanction is section 335 of the HGB.

    The company lodged an appeal against the Federal Office of Justice’s decision to impose a disciplinary fine.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Harbour Grace — Man arrested by RCMP East District General Investigation Section following internal fraud investigation

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Following an investigation that began in April 2023, charges have been laid by RCMP NL’s East District General Investigation Section (GIS) against 53-year-old Craig Williams.

    In April 2023, Independent Fish Harvesters Ltd. contacted the RCMP about possible internal fraud. Williams, who was the company’s office manager and accountant, was suspected as being involved.

    As part of the investigation, RCMP GIS engaged the Forensic Accounting Management Group (FMAG) and a forensic financial audit was completed. The investigation discovered internal fraud in excess of $125,000.00.

    Williams was arrested on March 12, 2025, and is charged with the following criminal offences:

    • Fraud over $5,000.00 – four counts
    • Theft over $5,000.00

    Williams is set to attend court in Harbour Grace on July 2, 2025.

    RCMP East District GIS thanks Independent Fish Harvesters Ltd. and FAMG for their cooperation and assistance provided during the police investigation.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Foodie Squirrel ($FDS) Sells Out on NovaMeme; IEO Launching on Toobit Speed Zone

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    GEORGE TOWN, Cayman Islands, May 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Foodie Squirrel ($FDS), a meme token created to bring food lovers into the Web3 ecosystem, has successfully completed its Initial DEX Offering (IDO) on NovaMeme, selling out in just five minutes. The strong market response underscores growing interest in community-powered tokens with cultural relevance.

    Following this milestone, Foodie Squirrel will launch its Initial Exchange Offering (IEO) on Toobit Speed Zone, offering broader access to the token ahead of its official listing on Toobit. This exclusive token launch feature gives users early access to emerging tokens ahead of their official listing, giving new projects greater visibility while providing users with a valuable first-mover advantage.

    “Foodie Squirrel’s IDO generated some of the fastest engagement we’ve seen on NovaMeme,” said Perry, founder of NovaMeme. “It’s a great example of how storytelling, culture, and utility can combine to capture real user interest. We’re excited to support the project as it grows its presence across the Web3 space.”

    Foodie Squirrel is designed to engage users at the intersection of food culture and decentralized finance. With an emphasis on community participation, digital ownership, and social engagement, Foodie Squirrel aims to foster an inclusive ecosystem centered around shared passion and online expression.

    The token’s IDO was hosted on NovaMeme, a decentralized launchpad that supports early-stage projects through transparent, community-first fundraising models. Backed by Mantle EcoFund, Bybit, Bybit Web3, HashKey, and OKX, NovaMeme continues to attract high-interest projects within the meme and culture-driven crypto space.

    For more information on Foodie Squirrel, visit: https://www.foodiesquirrel.com/

    About NovaMeme

    NovaMeme is a leading decentralized finance (DeFi) launchpad that empowers creators and traders. Dedicated to offering fair and innovative asset launch solutions, the fundraising platform bridges the gap between early-stage projects and the DeFi community. NovaMeme is community-first, and is supported by Mantle Ecofund, Bybit, Bybit Web3, Hashkey, and OKX.

    For more information about NovaMeme, visit: Website | X | Telegram | Discord

    Contact: Davin C.
    Email: pr@nova.meme
    Toobit
    market@toobit.com
    Website: www.toobit.com

    Disclaimer: This is a paid post and is provided by Toobit. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. We do not guarantee any claims, statements, or promises made in this article. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice.Investing in crypto and mining-related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. It is possible to lose all your capital. These products may not be suitable for everyone, and you should ensure that you understand the risks involved. Seek independent advice if necessary. Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector—including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining—complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed.
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    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/734073db-e268-43f1-9bd2-c64d0a9a17ca

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Fluxys Belgium: Regulated information – Payment of dividend

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    The Ordinary General Meeting of Shareholders of 13 May 2025 decided to distribute a dividend for the financial year 2024 and set the gross amount at EUR 1.40 per share.

    The net dividend, after deduction of the 30% withholding tax, amounts to EUR 0.98 per share and is payable as from 21 May 2025.

    Holders of dematerialised and registered shares on 20 May 2025 will receive the dividend as from 21 May 2025 as follows:

    • The dividend of dematerialised shares will be paid automatically by the financial intermediary holding the shares on behalf of the shareholder.
    • The dividend of registered shares will be paid directly to the shareholders entered in the register.

    According to Euronext procedure: Ex date: 19.05.2025 / Record date: 20.05.2025 / Payment date: 21.05.2025

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: AMD and HUMAIN Form Strategic, $10B Collaboration to Advance Global AI

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SANTA CLARA, Calif. and RIYADH, Saudi Arabia, May 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — AMD (NASDAQ: AMD) and HUMAIN, Saudi Arabia’s new AI enterprise, today announced a landmark agreement to build the world’s most open, scalable, resilient, and cost-efficient AI infrastructure, that will power the future of global intelligence through a network of AMD-based AI computing centers stretching from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to the United States.

    As part of the agreement, the parties will invest up to $10B to deploy 500 megawatts of AI compute capacity over the next five years. The AI superstructure built by AMD and HUMAIN will be open by design, accessible at scale, and optimized to power AI workloads across enterprise, start-up and sovereign markets. HUMAIN will oversee end-to-end delivery, including hyperscale data center, sustainable power systems, and global fiber interconnects, and AMD will provide the full spectrum of the AMD AI compute portfolio and the AMD ROCm™ open software ecosystem.

    “At AMD, we have a bold vision to enable the future of AI everywhere – bringing open, high-performance computing to every developer, AI start-up and enterprise around the world,” said Dr. Lisa Su, Chair and CEO, AMD. “Our investment with HUMAIN is a significant milestone in advancing global AI infrastructure. Together, we are building a globally significant AI platform that delivers performance, openness and reach at unprecedented levels.”

    “This is not just another infrastructure play – it’s an open invitation to the world’s innovators,” said Tareq Amin, CEO of HUMAIN. “We are democratizing AI at the compute level, ensuring that access to advanced AI is limited only by imagination, not by infrastructure.”

    With initial deployments already underway across key global regions, the collaboration is on track to activate multi-exaflop capacity by early 2026, supported by next-gen AI silicon, modular data center zones, and a developer-enablement focused software platform stack built around open standards and interoperability.

    Full-Spectrum AI at Scale

    The collaboration will deliver a market-defining value proposition by combining the Kingdom’s energy resources, AI-ready workforce and forward-looking national AI policies with the AMD full-spectrum AI stack including:

    • AMD Instinct™ GPUs, with industry-leading memory and inference performance.
    • AMD EPYC™ CPUs, offering world-class compute density and energy efficiency.
    • AMD Pensando™ DPUs, enabling scalable, secure, and programmable networking.
    • AMD Ryzen™ AI, bringing on-device AI compute to the edge.
    • AMD ROCm open software ecosystem with built-in support for all AI frameworks (PyTorch, SGLang, etc.)

    About AMD
    For more than 50 years AMD has driven innovation in high-performance computing, graphics and visualization technologies. AMD employees are focused on building leadership high-performance and adaptive products that push the boundaries of what is possible. Billions of people, leading Fortune 500 businesses and cutting-edge scientific research institutions around the world rely on AMD technology daily to improve how they live, work and play. For more information about how AMD is enabling today and inspiring tomorrow, visit the AMD (NASDAQ:AMD) website, blog, LinkedIn and X pages.

    About Humain
    HUMAIN, a PIF company, is a global artificial intelligence company delivering full-stack AI capabilities across four core areas – next-generation data centers, hyper-performance infrastructure & cloud platforms, advanced AI Models, including the world’s most advanced Arabic multimodal LLMs, and transformative AI Solutions that combine deep sector insight with real-world execution. HUMAIN’s end-to-end model serves both public and private sector organisations, unlocking exponential value across all industries, driving transformation and strengthening capabilities through human-AI synergies. With a growing portfolio of sector-specific AI products and a core mission to drive IP leadership and talent supremacy world-wide, HUMAIN is engineered for global competitiveness and national distinction. www.humain.ai

    AMD, the AMD logo, AMD Instinct, AMD ROCm, EPYC, Pensando, Ryzen and combinations thereof are trademarks of Advanced Micro Devices, Inc.

    Cautionary Statement
    This press release contains forward-looking statements concerning Advanced Micro Devices, Inc. (AMD) such as, the expected benefits of the collaboration between AMD and HUMAIN; the expected plans to deploy up to 500 megawatts of AI infrastructure over the next five years; the ability of AMD to provide its AMD AI compute portfolio and software ecosystem; and the ability of the collaboration to activate multi-exaflop capacity by 2026, which are made pursuant to the Safe Harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements are commonly identified by words such as “would,” “may,” “expects,” “believes,” “plans,” “intends,” “projects” and other terms with similar meaning. Investors are cautioned that the forward-looking statements in this press release are based on current beliefs, assumptions and expectations, speak only as of the date of this press release and involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from current expectations. Such statements are subject to certain known and unknown risks and uncertainties, many of which are difficult to predict and generally beyond AMD’s control, that could cause actual results and other future events to differ materially from those expressed in, or implied or projected by, the forward-looking information and statements. Material factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from current expectations include, without limitation, the following: the impact of government actions and regulations such as export regulations, tariffs and trade protection measures, and licensing requirements; Intel Corporation’s dominance of the microprocessor market and its aggressive business practices; Nvidia’s dominance in the graphics processing unit market and its aggressive business practices; competitive markets in which AMD’s products are sold; the cyclical nature of the semiconductor industry; market conditions of the industries in which AMD products are sold; AMD’s ability to introduce products on a timely basis with expected features and performance levels; loss of a significant customer; economic and market uncertainty; quarterly and seasonal sales patterns; AMD’s ability to adequately protect its technology or other intellectual property; unfavorable currency exchange rate fluctuations; ability of third party manufacturers to manufacture AMD’s products on a timely basis in sufficient quantities and using competitive technologies; availability of essential equipment, materials, substrates or manufacturing processes; ability to achieve expected manufacturing yields for AMD’s products; AMD’s ability to generate revenue from its semi-custom SoC products; potential security vulnerabilities; potential security incidents including IT outages, data loss, data breaches and cyberattacks; uncertainties involving the ordering and shipment of AMD’s products; AMD’s reliance on third-party intellectual property to design and introduce new products; AMD’s reliance on third-party companies for design, manufacture and supply of motherboards, software, memory and other computer platform components; AMD’s reliance on Microsoft and other software vendors’ support to design and develop software to run on AMD’s products; AMD’s reliance on third-party distributors and add-in-board partners; impact of modification or interruption of AMD’s internal business processes and information systems; compatibility of AMD’s products with some or all industry-standard software and hardware; costs related to defective products; efficiency of AMD’s supply chain; AMD’s ability to rely on third party supply-chain logistics functions; AMD’s ability to effectively control sales of its products on the gray market; long-term impact of climate change on AMD’s business; AMD’s ability to realize its deferred tax assets; potential tax liabilities; current and future claims and litigation; impact of environmental laws, conflict minerals related provisions and other laws or regulations; evolving expectations from governments, investors, customers and other stakeholders regarding corporate responsibility matters; issues related to the responsible use of AI; restrictions imposed by agreements governing AMD’s notes, the guarantees of Xilinx’s notes, the revolving credit agreement and the ZT Systems credit agreement; impact of acquisitions, joint ventures and/or strategic investments on AMD’s business and AMD’s ability to integrate acquired businesses, including ZT Systems; AMD’s ability to sell the ZT Systems manufacturing business; impact of any impairment of the combined company’s assets; political, legal and economic risks and natural disasters; future impairments of technology license purchases; AMD’s ability to attract and retain qualified personnel; and AMD’s stock price volatility. Investors are urged to review in detail the risks and uncertainties in AMD’s Securities and Exchange Commission filings, including but not limited to AMD’s most recent reports on Forms 10-K and 10-Q.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: FAVO Capital Announces Participation in the D. Boral Capital Inaugural Global Conference

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla., May 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — via IBN — FAVO Capital, Inc. (OTC: FAVO) (“FAVO Capital” or the “Company”), a leading provider of revenue-based funding solutions for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs), today announced that it will participate in the D. Boral Capital Inaugural Global Conference, where Shaun Quin, President of FAVO Capital, will engage with potential investors and highlight the Company’s growth strategy and market opportunities.

    Conference Details:

    • Date: Wednesday, May 14, 2025
    • Location: New York City
    • Venue: The Plaza Hotel

    “We are looking forward to engaging with potential investors and learning what exactly the industry is looking for in a company about to IPO”. Said Vincent Napolitano, CEO of FAVO Capital, he added, “We believe this platform will showcase the company to new and potential investors.”

    The D. Boral Capital Inaugural Global Conference is a premier event bringing together emerging growth issuers and institutional investors. With approximately seventy-five companies presenting and hundreds of institutional investors in attendance, the conference provides FAVO Capital with a platform to showcase its innovative funding solutions and engage directly with the investment community.

    “We are excited to participate in the D. Boral Capital Inaugural Global Conference,” said Shaun Quin, President of FAVO Capital. “This event is an excellent opportunity for us to connect with investors, share our strategy, and highlight our growth story as we embark towards an uplisting.”

    Investors attending the conference are encouraged to reach out to FAVO Capital to arrange one-on-one meetings with the Company’s management team.

    About FAVO Capital, Inc.

    FAVO Capital, Inc. (OTC: FAVO) is a private credit firm specializing in alternative financing solutions for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) across the United States. Since its inception, FAVO Capital has supported more than 10,000 businesses. FAVO Capital is committed to financial transparency, sustainable growth, and empowering SMBs with flexible funding solutions. Headquartered in Fort Lauderdale, FL, the company also has operations in New York and the Dominican Republic.

    For more information, visit www.favocapital.com and follow us on LinkedIn and X.

    Investor Alerts

    Interested investors and shareholders are encouraged to sign up for press releases and industry updates by registering for Email Alerts at FAVO News Alerts.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. These statements include, but are not limited to, projections, estimates, and expectations regarding future trends, financial performance, and operational strategies. Forward-looking statements are often identified by words such as “expects,” “anticipates,” “intends,” “believes,” “plans,” “seeks,” “estimates,” “may,” “will,” “should,” or similar expressions.

    These statements are based on the company’s current beliefs, expectations, and assumptions and are subject to significant risks, uncertainties, and changes in circumstances that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied. Factors that may cause such differences include, but are not limited to, market conditions, regulatory developments, competition, economic conditions, and the company’s ability to execute its business strategy.

    Actual results may differ materially from those anticipated, and investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. The company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements to reflect events, circumstances, or changes in expectations after the date of this press release, except as required by law.

    Company Contact:

    FAVO Capital, Inc.
    4300 N University Drive
    D-105
    Lauderhill, FL 33351

    Investor Relations:
    Scott McGowan
    InvestorBrandNetwork (IBN)
    Phone: 310.299.1717
    ir@favocapital.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Santech Holdings Limited Files Its Fiscal Year 2024 Annual Report on Form 20-F

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HONG KONG, May 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Santech Holdings Ltd. (“Santech” or the “Company”) (NASDAQ: STEC) today announced that it has filed its annual report containing its audited combined financial statements for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2024 on Form 20-F with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on May 13, 2025 Eastern Time. The annual report can be accessed on Santech’s investor relations website at https://ir.santechholdings.com and on the SEC’s website at http://www.sec.gov. The Company will provide hard copies of the annual report, free of charge, to its shareholders and ADS holders upon request. Requests should be sent to ir@santechholdings.com.

    About Santech Holdings Limited

    Santech Holdings Limited (NASDAQ: STEC) is a technology-focused company. The Company historically served a large number of high net-worth clients in China and Hong Kong in wealth management, asset management and health management, and accumulated a large customer base. The Company has since exited or disposed of its historical businesses in financial services, and is actively exploring innovative new opportunities in technology verticals, including and not limited to consumer technologies and enterprise technologies. For more information, please visit https://ir.santechholdings.com.

    Safe Harbor Statement

    This press release contains statements that may constitute “forward-looking” statements pursuant to the “safe harbor” provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as “anticipate,” “estimate,” “forecast,” “plan,” “project,” “potential,” “continue,” “ongoing,” “expect,” “aim,” “believe,” “intend,” “may,” “should,” “will,” “is/are likely to,” “could” and similar statements. Statements that are not historical facts, including statements about the Company’s beliefs, plans, and expectations, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Further information regarding these and other risks is included in the Company’s filings with the SEC. All information provided in this press release is as of the date of this press release, and the Company does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statement, except as required under applicable law.

    Investor Contact:

    Santech Holdings Limited
    Email: ir@santechholdings.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CE leads delegation to begin visit to Kuwait (with photos/ videos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    CE leads delegation to begin visit to Kuwait (with photos/ videos) 
    In the morning, Mr Lee met with the Amir of Kuwait, Mr Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, who is the head of state of Kuwait; the Crown Prince of Kuwait, Mr Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Mubarak Al-Sabah; and the Acting Prime Minister, Mr Fahad Yousuf Saud Al-Sabah, to exchange views on strengthening co-operation between Hong Kong and Kuwait. Mr Lee then attended a roundtable meeting chaired by the Acting Prime Minister, engaging in in-depth discussions with senior officials of the Kuwait Government on areas such as finance, trade, and innovation and technology (I&T). Mr Lee and the Acting Prime Minister witnessed the signing of Memoranda of Understanding by Invest Hong Kong and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council with the Kuwait Direct Investment Promotion Authority respectively. He and the delegation also participated in a luncheon hosted by the Acting Prime Minister.
     
    Mr Lee noted that Kuwait is the first member of the Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf (GCC) to sign both an Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement and a Comprehensive Avoidance of Double Taxation Agreement with Hong Kong, establishing a robust framework and foundation for economic and trade co-operation between the two places.
     
    He said that Kuwait has been actively developing a diversified economy in recent years, proposing Kuwait Vision 2035 to promote digital transformation and develop the country into a regional and international financial and trade centre. Hong Kong, as an international financial, shipping and trade centre with world-class professional services, has vast opportunities for co-operation with Kuwait in areas such as finance, investment, digital economy, and I&T, and can assist Kuwait in advancing its Vision 2035. Noting that Kuwait is the rotating President of the GCC currently, Mr Lee expressed his anticipation to strengthen co-operation between Hong Kong and Kuwait, adding that he looks forward to establishing closer economic, trade and cultural exchanges with more GCC member states.
     
    Mr Lee highlighted that Hong Kong enjoys the advantage of connecting the country with the world under the “one country, two systems” principle. Hong Kong will fully leverage its role as a bridge to serve enterprises in going global and attracting external investment, complementing the strengths of Mainland enterprises while deepening international exchanges and co-operation. He welcomed the Kuwaiti Government and enterprises to utilise Hong Kong’s role as a “super connector” and “super value-adder” to explore new opportunities under the Belt and Road Initiative for mutual benefit.
     
    Later, Mr Lee and the delegation met with representatives of a local corporation, Bukhamseen Group Holding Company, to learn about the latest developments in the company’s businesses in construction, real estate, financial services, and culture and tourism. Mr Lee introduced Hong Kong’s development opportunities and its highly internationalised and market-oriented business environment with its pool of professional services talent. He welcomed the company to use Hong Kong as a springboard to develop diversified businesses and tap into the Mainland market, better grasping the immense opportunities brought by the Belt and Road Initiative and the development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.
     
    Mr Lee then visited the Sheikh Abdullah Al Salem Cultural Centre to learn about Kuwait’s arts and culture projects and developments. The Sheikh Abdullah Al Salem Cultural Centre, which opened in 2018, comprises eight buildings, six of which are museums with different themes, housing a total of 22 display halls.
     
    Mr Lee said that the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government is committed to developing Hong Kong into an East-meets-West centre for international cultural exchanges, with the West Kowloon Cultural District as one of the world’s largest arts and culture projects. Both Hong Kong and Kuwait place importance on arts and culture development, and he said he looks forward to further deepening connections and co-operation in cultural exchanges between the two places.
     
    The delegation led by Mr Lee attended a dinner hosted by the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the People’s Republic of China to the State of Kuwait, Mr Zhang Jianwei. Mr Lee expressed gratitude to the Embassy for making meticulous arrangements for this visit and for its continued support to the HKSAR Government and the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Dubai. The HKSAR Government will continue to promote economic, trade, and cultural exchanges between Hong Kong and Kuwait.
     
    Mr Lee will lead the delegation to continue its visit to Kuwait tomorrow (May 14), meeting with local political and business leaders, and visiting enterprises.
    Issued at HKT 23:47

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI: Chino Commercial Bank Receives Super Premier Performing Recognition

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CHINO, Calif., May 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Chino Commercial Bank, the wholly owned subsidiary of Chino Commercial Bancorp (OTC: “CCBC”), was recently recognized by The Findley Reports on Financial Institutions by receiving Findley’s highest rating of “Super Premier Performing Bank.” The Bank, which has branches in Chino, Ontario, Rancho Cucamonga, Upland, and a new branch planned for Corona, received the recognition from Findley for its financial and operational performance during the 2024 year. The recognition by Findley was based upon multiple factors, including Profitability, Return on beginning Equity and Loan performance.

    Dann H. Bowman, President and CEO, stated, “We are very pleased to receive Findley Reports’ highest rating of Super Premier Performing Bank. 2024 was a very good year for the Bank, with increased revenue, earnings and earnings per share, in addition to strong credit performance. With the Bank’s strong capital position and low loan losses, we are in a good position to expand lending to the consumers and businesses in our area.”

    Contact: Dann H. Bowman, President and CEO or Melinda Milincu, Vice President and CFO, Chino Commercial Bank, N.A., 14245 Pipeline Avenue, Chino, Ca. 91710, (909) 393-8880.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: U.S. Ski & Snowboard, Stifel Extend Groundbreaking Title Partnership Through 2034

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    PARK CITY, Utah and ST. LOUIS, May 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — U.S. Ski & Snowboard and Stifel Financial Corp. (NYSE: SF) are proud to announce a landmark renewal of their partnership from May 2026 through April 2034. This unprecedented 8-year agreement marks the most expansive partnership in U.S. Ski & Snowboard’s history and reflects a bold, shared vision through the next three Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games.

    Under the renewed agreement, Stifel will be the title partner of the Stifel U.S. Ski Team, supporting the alpine, cross country, freeski, moguls, aerials, ski jumping, nordic combined and Para alpine teams, as well as the exclusive financial services partner of U.S. Ski & Snowboard.

    “As we look ahead to three Olympic and Paralympic Games, including a home Salt Lake City-Utah 2034 Games, this extended partnership with Stifel represents a generational investment in our teams and our athletes,” said Sophie Goldschmidt, President and CEO of U.S. Ski & Snowboard. “Stifel’s support has also enabled us to implement innovative new initiatives that are having a direct impact on the organization. From World Cup podiums to grassroots development, Stifel’s belief in the power of sport and our athletes has been a game-changer.”

    Since launching the partnership in 2022, Stifel’s support of U.S. Ski & Snowboard has driven record-breaking performances, increased the visibility of U.S. athletes and fueled the growth of competitive skiing in the U.S. Over the initial three years of partnership, the Stifel U.S. Ski Team has achieved historic success both athletically and as an organization.

    Organizationally, U.S. Ski & Snowboard has expanded its World Cup footprint in North America with the support of Stifel, bringing the total amount of World Cups from four to a record 11 in 2024-25. In the same season, the organization’s streaming and broadcast audience has doubled, earned media surpassed 30 billion impressions and social media impressions increased 70%.

    2024 was also a record-breaking year for Stifel, highlighting the strength and balance of a diversified business model, achieving net revenues of $4.97 billion, the highest in the firm’s history, and delivering a 23% return on average tangible equity, with non-GAAP net earnings of $756 million, or $6.81 per share – a 46% increase from the prior year. And finally, over the year, Stifel’s share price increased 56.4%.

    “The news of Stifel’s renewal as title sponsor of the Stifel U.S. Ski Team is so incredible,” said two-time Olympic champion Mikaela Shiffrin. “Ron (Kruszewski, Chairman and CEO of Stifel) and Stifel have shown amazing support for snow sports and are truly invested in the stories of our athletes and the growth of our sports, which has translated into more success on the mountain.”

    “Stifel has opened up so many opportunities for us as athletes and humans looking to reach our full potential, and I am so grateful for their support and proud to be part of their team,” said Olympic champion cross country skier Jessie Diggins. “Their commitment to helping us reach the top level is incredible and makes all the difference!”

    “The Stifel U.S. Ski Team partnership continuation is monumental for both parties,” said two-time Olympic medalist freeskier Alex Ferreira. “It is where success meets success. I am humbled and grateful to benefit from all sides.”

    Stifel also launched innovative programs around the increased domestic World Cup events, including the Stifel HERoic Cup, designed around U.S. Ski & Snowboard’s HERoic initiative celebrating women’s sport. Stifel also invested in the Stifel Bibbo Award for the athlete who moves up the most in ranks in alpine World Cup races, and continues to support the Stifel Success Tour, development-level NorAm races in the U.S. that feed the Stifel U.S. Ski Team pipeline. Additionally, Stifel supported the Stifel Snow Show, a weekly series on CNBC, Peacock and YouTube that highlighted the achievements and stories of U.S. Ski & Snowboard athletes each week throughout the season.

    The Stifel brand will remain prominently displayed on team uniforms and event signage at US events, along with a continuation of the Stifel U.S. Ski Team branding across digital and broadcast platforms. Stifel will also support a new performance bonus program for athletes and coaches based on key results during the season.

    “This partnership is about helping athletes reach their full potential,” said Ron Kruszewski, Chairman and CEO of Stifel. “As the firm Where Success Meets Success, we believe in backing those who strive for excellence—and that’s exactly what these athletes do, every day. We’re proud to support them not only as champions on the podium, but as role models, teammates and leaders who inspire us all.”

    QUOTES
    Mikaela Shiffrin, Stifel U.S. Alpine Ski Team
    The news of Stifel’s renewal as title sponsor of the Stifel U.S. Ski Team is so incredible. Ron and Stifel have shown amazing support for snow sports and truly are invested in the stories of our athletes and the growth of our sports which has translated into more success on the mountain.

    Jessie Diggins, Stifel U.S. Cross Country Ski Team
    Stifel has opened up so many opportunities for us as athletes and humans looking to reach our full potential, and I am so grateful for their support and proud to be part of their team. Their commitment to helping us reach the top level is incredible and makes all the difference!

    Alex Ferreira, Stifel U.S. Freeski Team
    The Stifel U.S. Ski Team partnership continuation is monumental for both parties. It is where success meets success. I am humbled and grateful to benefit from all sides.

    Nick Page, Stifel U.S. Freestyle Ski Team
    Thank you Stifel for all of your support – it means the world to have you in our corner and on our team. I’m looking forward to the future and our continued success in 2026.

    Niklas Malacinski, Stifel U.S. Nordic Combined Team
    Having Stifel step up as the title sponsor of the Stifel U.S. Nordic Combined Team means the world to us. It’s not just an investment in our sport but it’s a belief in our potential. Their support gives us the opportunity to focus on training and competition so we can be at our best. We’re proud to wear their name and represent the U.S. with everything we’ve got.

    Andrew Kurka, Stifel U.S. Para Alpine Ski Team
    Stifel has been huge supporter of the Para alpine team. Helping fund our development, pipeline and giving us the support we need to pursue our careers as athletes. Most Para sports aren’t seen as equal opportunity athletic endeavors. But the fact that Stifel stands behind us, helping to fund our team. Shows they see the big picture and treat athletes on the US Ski team as more than just philanthropic endeavors.

    Tate Frantz, Stifel U.S. Ski Jumping Team
    Having Stifel come on as a title sponsor is a huge boost for our team. Their support means we can keep pushing the limits and representing our country at the highest level. It’s exciting to have a partner that believes in our journey and wants to be part of the ride.

    ABOUT STIFEL
    Stifel Financial Corp. (NYSE: SF) is a financial services holding company headquartered in St. Louis, Missouri, that conducts its banking, securities, and financial services business through several wholly owned subsidiaries. Stifel’s broker-dealer clients are served in the United States through Stifel, Nicolaus & Company, Incorporated, including its Eaton Partners business division; Keefe, Bruyette & Woods, Inc.; Miller Buckfire & Co., LLC; and Stifel Independent Advisors, LLC; and in the United Kingdom and Europe through Stifel Nicolaus Europe Limited. The Company’s broker-dealer affiliates provide securities brokerage, investment banking, trading, investment advisory, and related financial services to individual investors, professional money managers, businesses, and municipalities. Stifel Bank and Stifel Bank & Trust offer a full range of consumer and commercial lending solutions. Stifel Trust Company, N.A. and Stifel Trust Company Delaware, N.A. offer trust and related services. To learn more about Stifel, please visit the Company’s website at www.stifel.com.

    ABOUT U.S. SKI & SNOWBOARD
    U.S. Ski & Snowboard is the Olympic and Paralympic National Governing Body of ski and snowboard sports in the USA, based in Park City, Utah. Started in 1905, the organization now represents nearly 240 elite skiers and snowboarders competing on 10 teams: alpine, cross country, freestyle moguls, freestyle aerials, snowboard, freeski, nordic combined, ski jumping, Para alpine and Para snowboard. In addition to the elite teams, U.S. Ski & Snowboard also provides leadership and direction for tens of thousands of young skiers and snowboarders across the USA, encouraging and supporting them in achieving excellence. By empowering national teams, clubs, coaches, parents, officials, volunteers and fans, U.S. Ski & Snowboard is committed to the progression of its sports, athlete success and the value of team. For more information, visit www.usskiandsnowboard.org

    FOR MORE INFORMATION
    Courtney Harkins
    U.S. Ski & Snowboard, Director of Marketing & Communications
    courtney.harkins@usskiandsnowboard.org

    Rhett Geraghty
    Stifel, Director, Advisor Recruiting & Brand Marketing
    geraghtyr@stifel.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: What will the Antichrist look like? According to Western thought, an authoritarian king – or the pope

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Philip C. Almond, Emeritus Professor in the History of Religious Thought, The University of Queensland

    Composite image by The Conversation. Images courtesy of TruthSocial/@realDonaldTrump and Wikimedia Commons

    The US presidency and the papacy came together on May 3 when Donald Trump posted an AI-generated photograph of himself dressed as the pope to Truth Social. The image was then shared by the White House’s accounts.

    Seated in an ornate (Mar-a-Lago-style) golden chair, he was wearing a white cassock and a bishop’s hat, with his right forefinger raised.

    Trump has since told reporters he “had nothing to do with it […] somebody did it in fun”.

    This image of “Pope Donald I” is of historical significance, for reasons of which, no doubt, the White House and Trump were blissfully unaware. It is the first ever image to combine the two most important understandings of the figure of the Antichrist in Western thought: on the one hand, that of the pope, and on the other, that of the authoritarian, despotic world emperor.

    On April 22, the day after Pope Francis’ death, Trump declared “I’d like to be pope. That would be my number one choice”. On April 28, Trump told The Atlantic “I run the country and the world”.

    So, both pope and world emperor.

    The Imperial Antichrist

    In the New Testament, the First Letter of John says, before Christ came again, the Antichrist will appear: the most conspicuous sign the end of the world was near.

    The Antichrist would be the archetypal evil human being who would persecute the Christian faithful. He would be finally defeated by the forces of good. As Sir Isaac Newton suggested, “searching the Prophecies which [God] hath given us to know Antichrist by” is a Christian obligation.

    The first life of the Antichrist was written by a Benedictine monk, Adso of Montier-en-der, around 1,100 years ago. According to Adso, the Antichrist would be a tyrannical evil king who would corrupt all those around him with gold and silver. He would be brought up in all forms of wickedness. Evil spirits would be his instructors and his constant companions.

    The Antichrist, left, is depicted as a king, in this image from a 12th century manuscript.
    Wikimedia Commons

    Seeking his own glory, as Adso put it, this king “will call himself Almighty God”.

    The Antichrist was opposite to everything Christ-like. According to the Christian tradition, Christ was fully human yet absolutely “sin free”. The Antichrist too was fully human, but completely “sin full”. The Antichrist was not so much a supernatural being who became flesh, as a human being who became fully demonised.

    Influenced by Christian stories of the Antichrist, Islam and Judaism constructed their own Antichrists – al-Dajjal, the Antichrist of the Muslims, and Armilus, the Antichrist of the Jews. Both al-Dajjal and Armilus are king-like messiahs.

    Over the centuries, many world leaders have been labelled “the Antichrist” – the Roman emperors Nero and Domitian were Antichrist figures, and the French emperor Napoleon was named the Antichrist in his own time.

    There have been more recent leaders who have been likened to the Antichrist, among them former president of Iraq Saddam Hussein, King Charles III, former Russian leader Mikhail Gorbachev, al-Qaeda founder Osama bin Laden, and Trump.

    The Papal Antichrist

    In the year 1190, King Richard I of England, on his way to the Holy Land, was informed by the Italian theologian Joachim of Fiore (c.1135–1202) the next pope would be the Antichrist.

    In the history of the Antichrist, this was a momentous occasion. From this time on, the tyrannical Antichrist outside of the Church would be juxtaposed with the papal deceiver within it.

    That the Catholic pope was the Antichrist was the common reading of the pope in the 16th-century Protestant Reformation.

    Martin Luther (1483–1546), the founder of the Protestant revolution, declared the pope “is the true […] Antichrist who has raised himself over and set himself against Christ”.

    Just as all Christians would not worship the Devil as God, he went on to say, “so we cannot allow his apostle the pope or Antichrist, to govern as our head or lord”.

    This 1877 painting depicts Martin Luther summoned by the Catholic Church in 1521, to renounce or reaffirm his views criticising Pope Leo X.
    Wikimedia Commons

    As he was about to be burned by the Catholic Queen Mary for his Protestant beliefs, the Anglican bishop Thomas Cranmer (1489–1556) declared, “as for the pope, I refuse him, as Christ’s enemy and antichrist with all his false doctrine”.

    Even in 1988, as Pope John Paul II addressed the European Parliament, the Northern Ireland hardline Protestant leader Ian Paisley roared, “Antichrist! I renounce you and all your cults and creeds” – to which, we are told, the pope gave a slight bemused smile.

    Except among the most extreme of Protestant conservatives, the idea of the papal Antichrist no longer has any purchase. The papal Antichrist has vacated the Western stage for the imperial Antichrist.

    The Antichrist and the end of the world

    In the history of Christianity, the idea of the Antichrist was a key part of Christian expectations about the return of Christ and the end of the world.

    In the final battle between the forces of good and evil, the Antichrist would be defeated by the forces of Christ. In short, the rise of the world emperor who was the Antichrist was a sign that the end of the world was at hand.

    In the light of the Western history of “the Antichrist”, the image of the imperial and papal US president is a powerful sign that the global order – at least as we have known it for the last 80 years – may be at an end.



    Read more:
    Five things to know about the Antichrist

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

    – ref. What will the Antichrist look like? According to Western thought, an authoritarian king – or the pope – https://theconversation.com/what-will-the-antichrist-look-like-according-to-western-thought-an-authoritarian-king-or-the-pope-256205

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: What or where is the Indo-Pacific? How a foreign policy pivot redefined the global map

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Andrew Latham, Professor of Political Science, Macalester College

    Is the Indo-Pacific concept about international dialogue … or just containing China? Tetra images/Getty Images

    Open a book of maps and look for the “Indo-Pacific” region – it likely won’t be there.

    Yet the Indo-Pacific is now central to how many countries think about strategy and security. It describes a region spanning two oceans and dozens of countries, encompassing much of the world’s trade routes.

    The Indo-Pacific did not emerge from the patterns of ancient trade, nor from long-standing cultural or civilizational ties.

    Instead, the concept comes from the realms of political science and international relations. The term can be traced back to the work of German political scientist and geographer Karl Haushofer – a favorite of Adolf Hitler – in the 1920s. But it only really began to take hold in the think tanks and foreign policy-setting departments of Washington and other Western capitals in the late 20th and early 21st centuries.

    It coincided with a shift in the global balance of power from unipolarity – that is, dominated by one superpower – to multipolarity over the past decade or so.

    ‘Confluence of the two seas’

    For much of the Cold War, the United States treated the Pacific and Indian oceans as separate theaters of operation. Its military forces in the area, known as U.S. Pacific Command, focused on East Asia and the western Pacific, while the Indian Ocean figured mainly in energy security discussions, tied to the Middle East and the flow of oil through the Strait of Hormuz, which connects the Persian Gulf to the Arabian Sea.

    Strategic maps during that era divided the world into distinct zones of interest. But China’s economic rise, India’s growing influence and the increasing strategic significance of sea lanes across both oceans since the end of the Cold War blurred those old dividing lines.

    The Indian Ocean could no longer be treated as a secondary concern. Nor could the Pacific be thought of in isolation from what was happening further west.

    Japan helped give political voice to this emerging reality. In 2007, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe stood before India’s parliament and spoke of the “confluence of the two seas” − an image that deliberately linked the Indian and Pacific oceans as a single geopolitical space.

    Abe’s message was clear: The fate of the Pacific and Indian oceans would be increasingly intertwined, and democratic states would need to work together to preserve stability. His vision resonated in Washington, Canberra and New Delhi, and it helped set the stage for the revival of the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue, or Quad.

    In 2018, the United States made the shift official, renaming U.S. Pacific Command as U.S. Indo-Pacific Command.

    What might have seemed like a bureaucratic rebranding was in fact a serious strategic move. It reflected the growing recognition that the rise of China − and Beijing’s growing influence from East Africa to the South Pacific − required an integrated regional approach.

    Framing the challenge in Indo-Pacific terms allowed Washington to strengthen its ties with India, deepen cooperation with Australia and Japan, and reposition itself as a maritime balancer across a vast strategic arc.

    The phrase “free and open Indo-Pacific” quickly became the centerpiece of American regional diplomacy. It emphasized freedom of navigation, respect for international law, and democratic solidarity.

    But while the rhetoric stressed inclusivity and shared values, the driving force behind the concept was clear: managing China’s expanding power. The Indo-Pacific framework allowed Washington to draw together a range of initiatives under a single banner, all aimed at reinforcing a rules-based order at a time when Beijing was testing its limits.

    Rejecting zero-sum thinking

    Not every country has enthusiastically embraced this vision. Many Southeast Asian states, wary of being drawn into a competition between the United States and China, have approached the Indo-Pacific concept with caution. The Association of Southeast Asian Nations’ document titled Outlook on the Indo-Pacific, released in 2019, deliberately avoided framing the region in confrontational terms. Instead, it stressed dialogue and the centrality of Southeast Asia − a subtle rebuke to visions that seemed to pit democracy against authoritarianism in stark, zero-sum terms.

    The breadth of the Indo-Pacific concept also raises difficult questions. It covers an enormous range of political, economic and security realities. The priorities of small island states in the Pacific differ sharply from those of major continental powers such as India or Australia. Treating the Indo-Pacific as a single strategic space risks flattening these differences and could alienate smaller nations whose concerns do not always align with those of the major players.

    The Indo-Pacific today

    Recent shifts in Washington’s foreign policy also complicate matters. The Trump administration’s skepticism toward alliances created doubts among regional partners about the reliability of U.S. commitments. Even as the Indo-Pacific idea gained traction, questions remained about whether it represented a long-term strategy or a short-term tactical adjustment.

    The Biden administration maintained the Indo-Pacific framework, launching the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity to provide an economic counterpart to the security-heavy focus of earlier years. But the central strategic challenge remains the same: how to manage China’s rise without forcing the region into a rigid geopolitical divide.

    For now, the Indo-Pacific framing has reshaped how policymakers, military planners and diplomats think about Asia’s future. It provides a vocabulary for coordinating alliances, building new partnerships and addressing the challenges posed by China’s expanding influence.

    Yet its long-term success will depend on whether the framework can genuinely accommodate the region’s diversity − and whether it can be seen as something more than just a mechanism for great power competition and a thinly veiled strategy to contain China.

    This article is part of a series explaining foreign policy terms commonly used but rarely explained.

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

    – ref. What or where is the Indo-Pacific? How a foreign policy pivot redefined the global map – https://theconversation.com/what-or-where-is-the-indo-pacific-how-a-foreign-policy-pivot-redefined-the-global-map-256406

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Tax Canadian movies? Why culture has always been at the centre of trade wars

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Sarah E.K. Smith, Canada Research Chair in Art, Culture & Global Relations and Associate Professor, Faculty of Information & Media Studies, Western University

    The United States government recently announced a plan to leverage a 100 per cent tariff on “foreign” films. President Donald Trump explained it was because he wanted to protect the U.S. film industry. He said other reasons include “national security” and “propaganda.”

    The current announcement may seem out of place in trade talks about steel and automobiles. But culture has long been a key part of North American trade relations.

    In my book, Trading on Art: Cultural Diplomacy and Free Trade in North America, I examine how culture became a vital tool for shaping relationships among Canada, Mexico and the United States. I focus on visual art — including exhibitions and museum initiatives — to show how culture is intertwined with the negotiation of free trade in North America.

    A history of cultural negotiations

    In the late 20th century, when Canada negotiated the Canada-United States Free Trade Agreement (later expanded into NAFTA), culture was central to free-trade debates.

    The period was charged with anxiety over American cultural imperialism and concerns about protecting Canadian cultural production. Ultimately, at Canada’s urging, culture was formally exempted from free-trade agreements, with limited provisions focused on cultural industries. But even though the cultural exemption in trade agreements may give the impression that culture has nothing to do with the histories of free trade, my research shows otherwise.

    This exemption isn’t just about protecting markets. Political scientist Patricia Goff says it also comes from a “desire to uphold …a distinct cultural identity.” Culture held a key place in the discussions about the impact of free trade. And it served as a means to construct new geopolitical identities, helping to introduce and reinforce the trade alliance.

    Culture was mobilized in different ways. It functioned as a unifying tool, but also a venue for critique.

    For example, following the creation of NAFTA, the online exhibition Panoramas: The North American Landscape in Art brought together art from Canada, Mexico and the U.S. The show offered a new transnational approach and explored landscapes across the continent.

    Other artworks such as Free Expression by Canadian activist-artists Carole Condé and Karl Beveridge articulated a critical response to impending free trade. Their piece depicts apprehension about the danger of U.S. cultural domination and speaks to the need to protect Canada’s cultural producers.

    Art as a diplomatic tool

    All three governments — of Canada, Mexico and the United States — used art exhibitions as a way to create and share stories about North American unity. While art has long been used for national narratives, this collaboration and these new stories about the North American region were a departure.

    For most of the 20th century, people did not think of North America as a unified or shared cultural entity. Most people saw the Americas as divided between Anglo and Latin America.

    Art was seen as a means to overcome this. It provided a way to support and depict the new alliance between Canada, Mexico and the United States under free trade. Exhibitions offered a way to depict North America in a new perspective. They presented concepts about continental unity to the public.

    During a trip to Canada, President Ronald Reagan, Nancy Reagan, Prime Minister Brian Mulroney and Mila Mulroney sing during a gala performance at Grand Théâtre de Québec in March 1985.
    (Ronald Reagan Library), CC BY

    How could Canada, Mexico and the United States understand themselves as part of a regional group? These art shows worked on many levels. They brought together work that helped make visual, thematic connections. They helped cultural professionals meet and make connections. They helped museums forge relationships.

    On top of that, the exhibitions also provided diplomatic spaces. Many openings celebrated specific moments in bi- and trilateral relationships, creating and facilitating social spaces for diplomatic and government connections.

    In this way, these exhibitions functioned as a form of cultural diplomacy. Some were initiated by governments to mark the economic integration of the continent. Others picked up on new understandings of the continent that were circulating. It was a process, according to American historian Nicholas Cull, by which international relationships became managed through the circulation of “cultural resources and achievements.”

    Art and cultural exchange gave people a meaningful and accessible way to see and understand the growing ties between the three countries. Art also offered a powerful and engaging way to tell the public about North American connections.

    Artistic resistance, critiques of free trade

    These were not the only messages circulating in this period. A body of contemporary art questioned and challenged free trade.

    For many Canadian artists, their work offered a means to question and critique increasing economic integration under free trade. In the 1980s and ‘90s, video art was a particularly active site for such work.

    An affordable medium that was easily disseminated, video art critiqued the media coverage of free trade, reflected on cultural nationalism and advanced experimental narratives about North America. Video art was also deeply tied to the anti-globalization protests that began at the start of the economic integration of North America under free trade.

    Video offered a space for creative expression and documentation of the protests. Video also enhanced protection for activists who were safer because they were recording their encounters with law enforcement. Beyond producing artworks, many artists joined other cultural producers, community and labour organizations to advocate against free trade.

    A behind-the-scenes image from the film shoot for ‘Acknowledgment’ (2020) by Jonathan Elliott.
    (Andrew Williamson for the City of Toronto/Toronto History Museums), CC BY-NC

    The role of culture

    Free-trade agreements radically reshaped the economies and public understandings of the western hemisphere in the late 20th century. Political scientist Guy Poitras argues that North America as a region was invented at this time.

    Culture is often overlooked when considering free-trade histories and dismissed as a form of “soft power.” But the cultural sphere does not sit apart from daily life and political economic concerns. Art and exhibitions from this period offer a rich vantage point on how free trade was perceived and contested. Examination of culture also reveals how it was used to construct a North American identity.

    Culture is not simply an entity to be instrumentalized for international relations, but a key venue in which these relations always play out. In the lead up to the renegotiation of the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement and amid the current tariff war, the ties between Canada, Mexico and the United States seem fragile. We should pay attention to how culture will be used as a tool to support or fracture these connections.

    Sarah E.K. Smith receives funding from the Canada Research Chairs program, the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council, and Western University. She is affiliated with the North American Cultural Diplomacy Initiative and the International Cultural Relations Research Alliance.

    – ref. Tax Canadian movies? Why culture has always been at the centre of trade wars – https://theconversation.com/tax-canadian-movies-why-culture-has-always-been-at-the-centre-of-trade-wars-256022

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Staying socially connected can help maintain healthy eating with age, especially for older women

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Annalijn I. Conklin, Associate Professor, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia

    Older people who are socially isolated have poor diet quality compared to those with frequent friend contact.
     (Shutterstock)

    Healthy eating supports healthy aging: Canada’s Food Guide recommends daily intake of fruits and vegetables as a way to help prevent multiple chronic conditions that typically affect older adults.

    We know that healthy eating is strongly influenced by our social connections and different settings. But aging often brings losses to different social connections that can put healthy eating at risk.

    As researchers who study the interaction of nutrition, age and social issues, we were curious to know if adverse changes in an older person’s social connections matter for maintaining a good diet, and who is most affected?

    Social isolation and social diversity change with age

    There is broad health research focused on social isolation that measures this concept at one point in time using a combination of different types of social contexts such as living alone, infrequent social contact, no social participation and not married.

    About one in five aging adults reduces the variety of their social engagement.
    (Shutterstock)

    Social isolation, however, is not a static experience as aging adults frequently go through changes in different types of social relationships, often reducing their social contacts and activities over time.

    Our recent research shows that the number of different social activities decreases over time for middle-age and older adults.

    About one in five aging adults reduces the variety of their social engagement (for example, seeing friends and family, volunteering, sports, religious and educational activities, etc.), with greater declines seen among older women.

    In addition, about 14 per cent of aging Canadians either became socially isolated or stayed socially isolated over time. Canadians in the oldest age group and in more socio-economically disadvantaged groups appear most vulnerable to staying or becoming either socially isolated or less socially diverse over time.

    It is important, then, for research on nutrition and healthy aging to better capture distinct alterations in social engagement over time, not only in terms of a lack of regular social interaction but also in terms of a diversity of social interactions.

    Dietary risks of changing social connections

    Both the quantity and the quality of the foods we eat can be affected by our meal setting, and eating alone is correlated with poor diet quality.

    Eating alone is correlated with poor diet quality.
    (Shutterstock)

    Among older adults, being socially isolated is linked to inadequate intakes of fruits and vegetables — a marker of diet quality that is associated with chronic disease. More specifically, both older men and women with no or rare friend contact have poor diet quality compared to those with frequent friend contact.

    It has been unclear whether staying or becoming socially isolated is a problem for maintaining healthy eating habits as people age. It is also unknown whether reducing the variety of social activities puts diet quality at risk of declining.

    The handful of nutrition studies that do consider changes in social connections all focus on marital transitions, leaving a critical gap in knowledge for healthy aging policy and practice.

    Our new study with collaborators is filling this knowledge gap by using multiple waves from a nationally representative cohort of middle-aged and older Canadians.

    The first important finding is that older women who stayed socially isolated — meaning one or no monthly activity — reduced their diet quality over time compared to women who stayed engaged in two or more monthly social activities.

    The second notable finding is the older women who reduced their diversity of social activities also had declines in diet quality over time. And finally, both older women and older men who had a small number of social activities that stayed the same over time were also at risk of declining diet quality.

    These results were not explained by other social or behavioural factors that were included in the study’s analysis.

    Social interventions to support healthy eating

    Canada’s healthy aging strategy and Food Guide both emphasize the important role of social connections for maintaining health and healthy eating. There have long been programs, such as Meals on Wheels, that support health and well-being by providing hot, nutritious meals to individuals, especially older adults, who are home-bound.

    Both older women and older men who had low social diversity over time were also at risk of declining diet quality.
    (Shutterstock)

    Maintaining regular and diverse social activities is vital for promoting health and well-being as people transition from mid to later life. Everybody can benefit from not just being connected, but also from staying connected across a range of social settings.

    We want to call attention to the significance of both persistent isolation and losses of social diversity for women’s nutrition and health in Canada. Different types of social connections may matter for women than for men, and their maintenance over time can show different effects on diet and health that need more research and policy action.

    Understanding the social determinants of diet for women is key to addressing health inequities and to tailoring more effective social interventions for aging Canadians, such as social prescribing and other social relational models of care.

    Annalijn I. Conklin receives funding from The Canadian Institutes of Health Research, the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada, and Michael Smith Health Research BC. Dr. Conklin is affiliated with Obesity Canada.

    Gilciane Ceolin and Sanaz Mehranfar do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Staying socially connected can help maintain healthy eating with age, especially for older women – https://theconversation.com/staying-socially-connected-can-help-maintain-healthy-eating-with-age-especially-for-older-women-254585

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: FOUR-YEAR LOW: Prices for Essentials Fall as Workers See Relief in President Trump’s Economy

    Source: The White House

    Inflation has fallen to the lowest level in more than four years as April’s Consumer Price Index smashes expectations for the third straight month in President Donald J. Trump’s Golden Age.

    Here’s what you need to know:

    • Grocery prices saw their largest decline in nearly five years.
    • Gas prices fell for the third month in a row.
    • Egg prices saw the largest one-month decline in more than four decades.
    • Workers’ real wages are up 1.9%, increasing each of the last three months.
    • Prices for airfare, energy, hotels, and used vehicles are all down compared to last year.

    Here’s what they’re saying:

    • Bloomberg’s Augusta Saraiva: “US inflation rose by less than forecast in April amid tame prices for clothing and new cars, suggesting little urgency so far by companies to pass along the cost of higher tariffs to consumers.”
    • Investopedia Editor-in-Chief Caleb Silver: “The smoke was much worse than the fire … A big part of that was the drop in gasoline prices. This is very significant for households … That drop in gasoline and energy prices — a big deal.”
    • Fox Business Network’s Maria Bartiromo: “Oil is down, eggs are down, food is down. We’re seeing that reflected, so all that hysteria over tariffs is not showing up in these numbers.”
    • USA TODAY: Inflation eased to 4-year low in April as Trump’s tariffs took effect, CPI report shows
      • “Prices for groceries, including eggs, used cars and airfares all fell sharply.”
    • Bloomberg: US Consumer Prices Rose Less Than Expected in April
      • “The pace is the slowest since the sprinsg of 2021 when inflation broke out in earnest.”
      • “Grocery prices were down 0.4% on the month, and eggs fell 12.7%, the most since 1984, validating some of President Donald Trump’s messaging.”
    • NBC News: April consumer price index report shows inflation dropped to slowest pace since 2021

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Amata Commends Entrepreneurs for Small Business Week

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Aumua Amata (Western Samoa)

    Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata is commending entrepreneurship for Small Business Week, and thanking small businesses for their important role in the community. 

    “Small businesses are the heartbeat of our economy. You mean so much to our community. May your diligent planning lead to well-earned thriving for your small business! (Proverbs 21:5)

    “Thank you to the small businesses all over our islands. We depend on you for what we need, just as you depend on your customers, and in that exchange of goods and services we uplift one another. 

    “Most of our businesses qualify as small businesses including our shopping, restaurants, and other services. Thank you for investing and building right here. Building a small business always involves risk and hard work, but that entrepreneurial vision can build something special over time.

    “Finally, thank you to the many influencing or involved in our business community, including American Samoa Small Business Development Center, ASCC, the American Samoa Chamber of Commerce, and other local leadership efforts, clubs, groups or associations that support small business growth, and educators who teach the skills needed for employers.

    “I support a helpful limited government role that encourages growth by keeping taxes down and regulations sensible, while putting the focus on improving the infrastructure priorities we need and share.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Universal Music Group and Apple Music announce Sound Therapy

    Source: Apple

    Headline: Universal Music Group and Apple Music announce Sound Therapy

    May 13, 2025

    UPDATE

    Universal Music Group and Apple Music announce Sound Therapy

    The collection leverages cognitive science and UMG’s roster of global superstars, adding subtle auditory beats to well-known curated tracks, aiming to help listeners focus, relax, and sleep

    Apple Music is joining forces with Universal Music Group (UMG) to introduce Sound Therapy, an innovative audio wellness collection designed to help listeners attain clearer focus, deeper relaxation, and better sleep.1

    “For years, elevating music’s role in health and wellbeing has been a strategic priority for UMG, linked to a potentially significant commercial opportunity, as well as something that our chairman and CEO, Sir Lucian, and the entire management team are passionate about,” said Michael Nash, UMG’s executive vice president and chief digital officer. “Given Apple’s leadership at the intersection of health and technology, the launch of Sound Therapy represents an important validation of our innovative, science-led Sollos initiative. We look forward to working closely with the team at Apple to expand the ways that music can be harnessed to improve the wellness benefits for its users.”

    “Every day, people around the world make Apple Music part of their daily routine, and we’ve seen incredible engagement around our personalized mood playlists and the new Apple Music Chill radio station,” said Rachel Newman, Apple Music’s co-head. “Now, with Sound Therapy, we’re proud to work alongside UMG and Sollos to bring a new listening experience to Apple Music — one that’s grounded in artistry, shaped by innovation, and designed to support wellness.”

    Available exclusively on Apple Music, Sound Therapy blends songs subscribers already know and love with special sound waves designed to enhance users’ daily routines, while retaining the artist’s original vision. Backed by scientific research and powered by UMG’s proprietary audio technologies, Sound Therapy harnesses the power of sound waves, psychoacoustics, and cognitive science to help listeners relax or focus the mind.

    The collection was crafted by a team of producers, scientists, and audio engineers at Sollos, a groundbreaking music-wellness venture incubated within UMG’s London offices. Sound Therapy features extended, instrumental, and reimagined versions of popular tracks from acclaimed artists such as Imagine Dragons, Katy Perry, Kacey Musgraves, Ludovico Einaudi, AURORA, Jhené Aiko, Chelsea Cutler, and Jeremy Zucker, providing a premium listening experience.

    Sound Therapy features three categories: Focus, Relax, and Sleep. Songs have been enhanced with auditory beats or colored noise to help encourage specific brain responses. Gamma waves and white noise — a whoosh-like combination of every sound frequency — may help with focusing; theta waves could aid in relaxation; and delta waves and pink noise — a deeper, gentler variation akin to rain or wind — might assist in achieving better sleep. A dreamy version of Katy Perry’s “Double Rainbow,” for example, could help listeners drift off to sleep, while an Imagine Dragons track might help them tackle a to-do list. Learn more about Sound Therapy from Apple Music’s Zane Lowe.

    Apple has long been committed to enabling its customers to lead healthier, more active lives through offerings like Apple Watch, HealthKit, and Apple Fitness+. The company will work closely with Sollos and UMG to further establish scientific evidence supporting music and audio for improved wellbeing, and finding inclusive ways to bring these benefits to people around the world.

    Maintain Focus

    The Focus category is designed to support improved cognitive performance and concentration, tapping into the power of gamma auditory beats to help listeners get in the mindset to achieve optimum focus. White noise masks distracting sounds, aiming to help listeners stay in the moment.

    Time to Relax

    Songs in the Relax category are made for letting go, blending and infusing in theta auditory beats to help achieve ultimate relaxation.

    Made for Sleep

    The Sleep category is designed to encourage deeper sleep through an infusion of delta auditory beats or pink noise, which works similarly to white noise but uses natural sounds like rainfall and ocean waves.

    Sound Therapy arrives on the heels of the brand-new Apple Music Chill radio station, created to serve as a sanctuary of sound listeners can turn to throughout their day to seek refuge. The station’s programming is a continuous flow of chill highlights across genres, interspersed with mindful moments meant to remind listeners to make the time to find center and calm. Enjoy the velvety tones of discerning tastemakers like Brian Eno, Stephan Moccio, and Zane Lowe, who expertly take listeners through stories of calm and wellbeing in their own hosted shows.

    About Apple Music Apple loves music. Apple revolutionized the music experience with iPod and iTunes. Today, the award-winning Apple Music celebrates musicians, songwriters, producers, and fans with a catalog of over 100 million songs, expertly curated playlists, and the best artist interviews, conversations, and global premieres with Apple Music Radio. With original content from the most respected and beloved people in music, autoplay, time-synced lyrics, lossless audio, and immersive sound powered by Spatial Audio with Dolby Atmos, Apple Music offers the world’s best listening experience, helping listeners discover new music and enjoy their favorites while empowering the global artist community. Apple Music is available in over 167 countries and regions on iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch, Apple TV, HomePod, CarPlay, Apple Vision Pro, and online at music.apple.com, plus popular smart speakers, smart TVs, and Android and Windows devices. Apple Music is ad-free and never shares consumer data with third parties. More information is available at apple.com/apple-music. About Universal Music Group At Universal Music Group, we exist to shape culture through the power of artistry. UMG is the world leader in music-based entertainment, with a broad array of businesses engaged in recorded music, music publishing, merchandising, and audiovisual content. Featuring the most comprehensive catalogue of recordings and songs across every musical genre, UMG identifies and develops artists and produces and distributes the most critically acclaimed and commercially successful music in the world. Committed to artistry, innovation, and entrepreneurship, UMG fosters the development of services, platforms, and business models in order to broaden artistic and commercial opportunities for our artists and create new experiences for fans. For more information on Universal Music Group, please visit universalmusic.com.

    1. Sound Therapy is designed to support a person’s overall wellbeing. It is not intended to treat any medical condition.

    Press Contacts

    Jessica Bass

    Apple

    jessica_bass@apple.com

    Cat Franich

    Apple

    cfranich@apple.com

    Apple Media Helpline

    media.help@apple.com

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Universal Music Group and Apple Music announce Sound Therapy

    Source: Apple

    Headline: Universal Music Group and Apple Music announce Sound Therapy

    May 13, 2025

    UPDATE

    Universal Music Group and Apple Music announce Sound Therapy

    The collection leverages cognitive science and UMG’s roster of global superstars, adding subtle auditory beats to well-known curated tracks, aiming to help listeners focus, relax, and sleep

    Apple Music is joining forces with Universal Music Group (UMG) to introduce Sound Therapy, an innovative audio wellness collection designed to help listeners attain clearer focus, deeper relaxation, and better sleep.1

    “For years, elevating music’s role in health and wellbeing has been a strategic priority for UMG, linked to a potentially significant commercial opportunity, as well as something that our chairman and CEO, Sir Lucian, and the entire management team are passionate about,” said Michael Nash, UMG’s executive vice president and chief digital officer. “Given Apple’s leadership at the intersection of health and technology, the launch of Sound Therapy represents an important validation of our innovative, science-led Sollos initiative. We look forward to working closely with the team at Apple to expand the ways that music can be harnessed to improve the wellness benefits for its users.”

    “Every day, people around the world make Apple Music part of their daily routine, and we’ve seen incredible engagement around our personalized mood playlists and the new Apple Music Chill radio station,” said Rachel Newman, Apple Music’s co-head. “Now, with Sound Therapy, we’re proud to work alongside UMG and Sollos to bring a new listening experience to Apple Music — one that’s grounded in artistry, shaped by innovation, and designed to support wellness.”

    Available exclusively on Apple Music, Sound Therapy blends songs subscribers already know and love with special sound waves designed to enhance users’ daily routines, while retaining the artist’s original vision. Backed by scientific research and powered by UMG’s proprietary audio technologies, Sound Therapy harnesses the power of sound waves, psychoacoustics, and cognitive science to help listeners relax or focus the mind.

    The collection was crafted by a team of producers, scientists, and audio engineers at Sollos, a groundbreaking music-wellness venture incubated within UMG’s London offices. Sound Therapy features extended, instrumental, and reimagined versions of popular tracks from acclaimed artists such as Imagine Dragons, Katy Perry, Kacey Musgraves, Ludovico Einaudi, AURORA, Jhené Aiko, Chelsea Cutler, and Jeremy Zucker, providing a premium listening experience.

    Sound Therapy features three categories: Focus, Relax, and Sleep. Songs have been enhanced with auditory beats or colored noise to help encourage specific brain responses. Gamma waves and white noise — a whoosh-like combination of every sound frequency — may help with focusing; theta waves could aid in relaxation; and delta waves and pink noise — a deeper, gentler variation akin to rain or wind — might assist in achieving better sleep. A dreamy version of Katy Perry’s “Double Rainbow,” for example, could help listeners drift off to sleep, while an Imagine Dragons track might help them tackle a to-do list. Learn more about Sound Therapy from Apple Music’s Zane Lowe.

    Apple has long been committed to enabling its customers to lead healthier, more active lives through offerings like Apple Watch, HealthKit, and Apple Fitness+. The company will work closely with Sollos and UMG to further establish scientific evidence supporting music and audio for improved wellbeing, and finding inclusive ways to bring these benefits to people around the world.

    Maintain Focus

    The Focus category is designed to support improved cognitive performance and concentration, tapping into the power of gamma auditory beats to help listeners get in the mindset to achieve optimum focus. White noise masks distracting sounds, aiming to help listeners stay in the moment.

    Time to Relax

    Songs in the Relax category are made for letting go, blending and infusing in theta auditory beats to help achieve ultimate relaxation.

    Made for Sleep

    The Sleep category is designed to encourage deeper sleep through an infusion of delta auditory beats or pink noise, which works similarly to white noise but uses natural sounds like rainfall and ocean waves.

    Sound Therapy arrives on the heels of the brand-new Apple Music Chill radio station, created to serve as a sanctuary of sound listeners can turn to throughout their day to seek refuge. The station’s programming is a continuous flow of chill highlights across genres, interspersed with mindful moments meant to remind listeners to make the time to find center and calm. Enjoy the velvety tones of discerning tastemakers like Brian Eno, Stephan Moccio, and Zane Lowe, who expertly take listeners through stories of calm and wellbeing in their own hosted shows.

    About Apple Music Apple loves music. Apple revolutionized the music experience with iPod and iTunes. Today, the award-winning Apple Music celebrates musicians, songwriters, producers, and fans with a catalog of over 100 million songs, expertly curated playlists, and the best artist interviews, conversations, and global premieres with Apple Music Radio. With original content from the most respected and beloved people in music, autoplay, time-synced lyrics, lossless audio, and immersive sound powered by Spatial Audio with Dolby Atmos, Apple Music offers the world’s best listening experience, helping listeners discover new music and enjoy their favorites while empowering the global artist community. Apple Music is available in over 167 countries and regions on iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch, Apple TV, HomePod, CarPlay, Apple Vision Pro, and online at music.apple.com, plus popular smart speakers, smart TVs, and Android and Windows devices. Apple Music is ad-free and never shares consumer data with third parties. More information is available at apple.com/apple-music. About Universal Music Group At Universal Music Group, we exist to shape culture through the power of artistry. UMG is the world leader in music-based entertainment, with a broad array of businesses engaged in recorded music, music publishing, merchandising, and audiovisual content. Featuring the most comprehensive catalogue of recordings and songs across every musical genre, UMG identifies and develops artists and produces and distributes the most critically acclaimed and commercially successful music in the world. Committed to artistry, innovation, and entrepreneurship, UMG fosters the development of services, platforms, and business models in order to broaden artistic and commercial opportunities for our artists and create new experiences for fans. For more information on Universal Music Group, please visit universalmusic.com.

    1. Sound Therapy is designed to support a person’s overall wellbeing. It is not intended to treat any medical condition.

    Press Contacts

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    Apple

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    Apple

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    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Adding More Affordable Mixed-Use Housing in Brooklyn

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul and New York City Mayor Eric Adams today announced the completion of Logan Fountain, a new affordable housing development in the Cypress Hills neighborhood of Brooklyn. The $214 million project transformed a vacant parcel into affordable apartments, transitional housing for homeless families, and new retail space. With 343 total units, the new building includes 173 affordable apartments and 169 units of transitional housing, as well as one unit reserved for a superintendent. The development is a city-state project with investments from New York State Homes and Community Renewal (HCR), New York City Department of Social Services (DSS), and New York City Housing Preservation and Development (HPD). Since the Governor has taken office, HCR has financed over 7,600 affordable homes in Brooklyn. Logan Fountain continues this effort and complements Governor Hochul’s $25 billion five-year housing plan, which is on track to create or preserve 100,000 affordable homes statewide.

    “It’s simple: the only way to address the housing crisis is to build more housing,” Governor Hochul said. “New Yorkers deserve a safe, stable and affordable home. By working together with Mayor Adams and our partners in New York City, we can address the needs of New Yorkers and create the types of modern and sustainable homes that uplift communities and allow families to grow.”

    New York City Mayor Eric Adams said, “Every day, we are working to make New York City more affordable, and our whole-of-government approach is allowing us to partner with Governor Hochul and the state today to deliver over 340 units of affordable and transitional housing. This project will provide exactly the type of long-term stability our families need to help them thrive — providing them access to on-site services, resources, and housing. We are thrilled to open this world-class building with crucial supports and energy efficient designs that will make a lasting impact on hundreds of families, and which will serve as a model for how we can smartly address our decades-long housing crisis.”

    Apartments are available to households earning up to 70 percent of the Area Median Income. Of the 173 affordable apartments, there are 105 supportive apartments with onsite social services including case management, career counseling, mental health support, and referrals to healthcare. Logan Fountain was designed to appeal to families of different sizes and has a mix of studios, one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments. Additionally, the building includes ground-floor retail, play areas, fitness space, and a courtyard.

    Logan Fountain will also host 169 units of transitional housing for families. Designed with trauma-informed principles, HELP New Leaf will offer critical support for families including clinical care, employment counseling, and housing placement support.

    Logan Fountain’s sustainability measures include rooftop solar panels for on-site energy generation, a Variant Refrigerant Flow heating and cooling system that captures and repurposes heat already in the environment, as well as ENERGY STAR (r) appliances.

    The project to redevelop the vacant site into a mixed-use hub for families was identified in the New York City Department of City Planning’s East New York Neighborhood Plan. The project’s developer is Hudson Companies, Jericho Project is providing the onsite support services, and HELP USA is operating the transitional housing within the building.

    The 173 affordable and supportive apartments at Logan Fountain are supported by HCR’s Federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credit Program which generated nearly $50 million in equity and $18 million of long-term bond financing from its Housing Finance Agency.

    The site is also participating in the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation’s successful Brownfield Cleanup Program and will be eligible for approximately $9 million in tax credits to be issued by the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance. Operational funding for the 105 supportive apartments is being provided by the New York City 15/15 Supportive Housing Program. DSS’s 30-year contract facilitates financing for the development and not-for-profit ownership of the 169 units of transitional housing.

    Additional support included $24 million from HPD’s Supportive Housing Loan Program, $1 million in discretionary capital funding from the New York City Council, and over $150,000 in incentives from the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority.

    New York State Homes and Community Renewal Commissioner RuthAnne Visnauskas said, “HCR’s investment in affordable housing will bring benefits to Brooklyn’s Cypress Hills community for generations to come. With affordable apartments, family-friendly amenities, and energy-efficient features, Logan Fountain demonstrates the potential housing can have on the lives of New Yorkers and the future of our neighborhoods. We thank Governor Hochul for her dedication to addressing the housing crisis in Brooklyn, and we appreciate the continued collaboration and support from City Hall and our partner agencies.”

    NYSERDA President and CEO Doreen Harris said, “Reimagining vacant infrastructure by incorporating the latest sustainable building technologies moves New York State forward in its just and equitable transition to a clean energy economy. The transformation of Logan Fountain will help to meet the diverse, local needs of the Brooklyn community, while creating comfortable, and affordable spaces for future generations.”

    New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Acting Commissioner Amanda Lefton said, “Cleaning up environmental pollution in communities like Brooklyn unlocks investments in critical needs like affordable housing, transitional housing services, and commercial development. New York State’s Brownfield Cleanup Program is a vital tool that supports community revitalization across the state and the Logan Fountain project in Cypress Hills is a prime example of how this successful cleanup program is helping advance Governor Hochul’s continued efforts to increase affordable, sustainable housing statewide while also protecting public health and the environment.”

    New York City Housing Preservation and Development Acting Commissioner Ahmed Tigani said, “Turning a former gas station into the largest project of its kind in New York City with affordable homes, supportive services, and transitional shelter all under one roof shows what real public-private partnership can deliver. Logan Fountain is a powerful example of what’s possible when we rethink how underused land can serve our communities. These 105 supportive homes, along with critical onsite care, reflect a new model for housing that prioritizes stability, dignity, and opportunity.”

    New York City Department of Homeless Services Administrator Joslyn Carter said, “The Logan Fountain is an exemplary project that transforms underutilized city space into much-needed supportive and transitional housing for vulnerable families. At DHS, we are committed to reimagining the shelter system through innovative high-quality models and strong provider partnerships that enhance our delivery of services and strengthen pathways to long-term housing stability for New Yorkers experiencing homelessness. We are grateful to our partners at HELP USA, The Hudson Companies, and others as we continue to raise the bar on the physical infrastructure of our shelter system.”

    U.S. Senator Charles Schumer said, “I’m proud that the federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credit that I worked hard to protect and expand has generated $68 million to help build Logan Fountain in Cypress Hills, Brooklyn — a new development with 174 affordable apartments and a 169-unit family shelter with on-site support services. I applaud Governor Hochul’s efforts to create and preserve affordable homes across the state, especially for vulnerable New Yorkers, and I will continue working to deliver the federal resources needed for more affordable housing options.”

    State Senator Roxanne J. Persaud said, “This is an incredible addition to the Cypress Hills neighborhood. By providing affordable housing alongside comprehensive wraparound services, Logan Fountain sets a standard for how we should address community needs — strengthening families, supporting vulnerable New Yorkers, and building more resilient neighborhoods.”

    Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso said, “I am thrilled to see what was once a vacant gas station transformed into a vibrant mixed-use facility with more than 300 units of housing, including transitional housing for our most vulnerable neighbors. Logan Fountain’s unique financing embodies the innovative thinking we need more of to make a dent in our housing crisis. I am so thankful to Governor Hochul and NYS Homes and Community Renewal for supporting Logan Fountain and their long-term commitment to building desperately needed housing in Brooklyn.”

    New York City Council Member Sandy Nurse said, “Logan Fountain will bring hundreds of much-needed affordable, supportive, and transitional housing units to Brooklyn. I am particularly grateful that forty-one percent of the units will be family sized units, which will help stem the exodus of primarily Black families from the city. This project will help stabilize those most in need of permanent housing and allow families to put down roots in East New York.”

    Hudson Companies President David Kramer said, “Logan Fountain stands as the largest project of its kind in New York City — a truly groundbreaking achievement that brings much-needed housing and social services to East New York. Today’s ribbon-cutting marks the transformation of a long-vacant site into a vibrant, mixed-use development designed to support and uplift our most vulnerable residents and tackle the city’s housing crisis. We’re deeply grateful to Governor Hochul for her support in bringing this development to life and to The Jericho Project and Help USA for their vital role in delivering these essential social services.

    Jericho Project CEO Tori Lyon said, “Jericho Project is honored to provide support to the 105 families residing in Logan Fountain’s supportive housing complex — a critical initiative made possible through strong public and private partnership. Through our integrated service model – which includes mental health care, employment support, family counseling, and housing stabilization – our experienced staff will help ensure these families have the tools and support necessary to thrive.”

    HELP USA President and CEO Dan Lehman said, “HELP New Leaf Family Shelter at Logan Fountain is a powerful example of what’s possible when the City and State work in true partnership with nonprofits and private developers. This shelter stands on the site of HELP 1 — our very first family shelter — which opened in the 1980s and set a national standard for transitional housing. As we celebrate HELP USA’s 40th anniversary and our work serving more than 30,000 people each year, New Leaf reflects all we’ve learned since then — a new model of care, services, and design built to meet the complex needs of today’s families. Logan Fountain is more than a building — it’s a commitment to dignity, stability, and opportunity for families rebuilding their lives.”

    Governor Hochul’s Housing Agenda
    Governor Hochul is committed to addressing New York’s housing crisis and making the State more affordable and more livable for all New Yorkers. As part of the Fiscal Year FY25 Enacted Budget, the Governor secured a landmark agreement to increase New York’s housing supply through new tax incentives for Upstate communities, new incentives and relief from certain state-imposed restrictions to create more housing in New York City, a $500 million capital fund to build up to 15,000 new homes on state-owned property, an additional $600 million in funding to support a variety of housing developments statewide and new protections for renters and homeowners. In addition, as part of the FY23 Enacted Budget, the Governor announced a five-year, $25 billion Housing Plan to create or preserve 100,000 affordable homes statewide, including 10,000 with support services for vulnerable populations, plus the electrification of an additional 50,000 homes. Nearly 60,000 homes have been created or preserved to date.

    The FY25 Enacted Budget also strengthened the Pro-Housing Community Program which the Governor launched in 2023. Pro-Housing certification is now a requirement for localities to access up to $650 million in discretionary funding. Over 300 communities have currently been certified, including the City of New York.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Angola at 50: Angola Oil & Gas (AOG) 2025 Affirms Oil and Gas as a Development Driver

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

    LUANDA, Angola, May 13, 2025/APO Group/ —

    As sub-Saharan Africa’s second largest oil producer and an emerging global gas player, Angola is revitalizing its oil and gas sector through policy reform, upcoming projects and aligned industry goals. The country has secured over $60 billion in commitments over the next five years, reflecting the growing interest by international financiers and operators in advancing Angolan projects. As the country continues to promote investment, the upcoming Angola Oil & Gas (AOG) conference affirms the role oil and gas plays as a fuel for development in Angola.  

    This year’s edition of AOG – taking place September 3-4 in Luanda – is hosted under the theme Angola 50 Years: Oil and Gas as a Development Driver, highlighting the fundamental role the industry has played in the country’s economic growth. Taking place on the eve of Angola’s 50 years of independence celebration and with a focus on policy improvements, upcoming investment prospects, major developments and cross-sector opportunities, the event underscores how investing in Angola will unlock long-term growth and high returns.  

    AOG is the largest oil and gas event in Angola. Taking place with the full support of the Ministry of Mineral Resources, Oil and Gas; the National Oil, Gas and Biofuels Agency; the Petroleum Derivatives Regulatory Institute; national oil company Sonangol; and the African Energy Chamber; the event is a platform to sign deals and advance Angola’s oil and gas industry. To sponsor or participate as a delegate, please contact sales@energycapitalpower.com.

    Angola’s oil and gas industry is at a critical juncture, striving to address production decline while accelerating sustainable growth. An upcoming licensing round – planned for this year – in tandem with the country’s 2025-2028 project pipeline is set to bolster production and unlock greater value from the industry. Major developments include the New Gas Consortium’s Quiluma and Maboqueiro fields (2026); the Azule Energy-led Agogo Integrated West Hub Development (late-2025); the TotalEnergies-operated Kaminho Deepwater Development (2028); and the Cabinda Oil Refinery (2025). Beyond existing projects, Angola has committed to unlocking its frontier basins, with the Namibe-Benguela, Etosha-Okavango and Kassanje basins at the fore. ExxonMobil is leading exploration in Namibe while Vietnam’s XTG signed a deal to explore the Etosha-Okavango basin in 2025. Future discoveries will augment the industry’s contribution to the economy while creating new opportunities for joint ventures, increased output and value addition.  

    By sustaining production above one million barrels per day, Angola is positioning the oil and gas industry as a fuel for cross-sector development. The industry already supports activities across key sectors, including mining, agriculture and industry. With goals to become a globally-leading critical mineral producer, produce 17.5 million carats of diamonds by 2027 while enhancing fertilizer production for agri-operations, strengthened synergies between the hydrocarbon, mining and agricultural industries would stand to drive future growth. As such, the government has been implementing policies to support multi-sector development.

    Regulatory reform and aligned policies are expected to support future projects while diversifying the industry through natural gas monetization. To offset production decline, the country implemented an Incremental Production Decree, comprising attractive firms for companies re-investing in producing assets. The country is also expected to introduce its Gas Master Plan in 2025, designed to attract investment across the gas value chain. These policies have already begun to entice spending, and the government is promoting a flexible approach to investing in Angola.

    The AOG 2025 conference steps into this picture to provide a platform where the industry can connect, engage and sign deals. In celebration of 50 years of independence and energy leadership in Angola, the event unites stakeholders from across the economy. Major sponsors have already come on board, underscoring the value AOG plays in supporting portfolio expansion and brand exposure by major oil and gas players. Sonangol Integrated Logistics Services, Cabship and Azule Energy have joined as Gold Sponsors; FAMAR and Petrotec have joined as Silver Sponsors; while Algoa Cabinda Services and Enagol have joined as Bronze Sponsors. There are still a range of sponsorship opportunities available. Visit www.AngolaOilAndGas.com for more information.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Lebanese National Sentenced to 14 Years in Prison for Running a Ponzi Scheme

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

    Note: See the factual proffer here.

    MIAMI – On May 8, 2025, Henry Abdo, 48, of Lebanon, was sentenced to 168 months in prison and ordered to pay a $300,000 fine and $375,479 in restitution by United States District Court Judge William P. Dimitrouleas.

    Abdo pled guilty in federal court to orchestrating a fraudulent scheme that solicited over $6 million from investors under false pretenses. According to court records, Abdo’s company, Titanium Capital LLC, purported to operate a foreign exchange platform that guaranteed fixed returns for investors. In reality, Titanium Capital had no such platform, and Abdo used investor funds to pay off earlier investors and finance his personal lifestyle.

    Beginning in July 2014, Abdo falsely claimed that Titanium Capital was a “zero-risk” investment fund that generated profits from fees on foreign currency transactions. Abdo further deceived investors by claiming Titanium Capital was part of a multibillion-dollar holding company, had developed proprietary software, and was registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission. None of these claims were true.

    Court documents indicate that Abdo solicited investments through in-person meetings, emails, video conferences, and phone calls. Abdo directed potential investors to websites and promotional materials that falsely depicted Titanium Capital as a legitimate enterprise. In truth, Titanium operated as a classic Ponzi scheme, using funds from new investors to pay earlier investors while diverting large sums of money for Abdo’s personal use, including international travel and other expenses.

    In addition to fraudulent investment claims, court records reveal that Abdo attempted to bolster his credibility by falsely associating himself with various charitable and educational organizations. Abdo also falsely claimed that Titanium Capital’s profits were donated to assist the blind and handicapped.

    After soliciting millions from over 200 investors, Abdo’s scheme unraveled. Many victims were financially devastated. Several victims reported losing retirement accounts and personal savings that they had relied on for basic living expenses, such as food and medication.

    U.S. Attorney Hayden P. O’Byrne for the Southern District of Florida and acting Special Agent in Charge Brett Skiles of the FBI, Miami Field Office, made the announcement. 

    FBI Miami’s Palm Beach Resident Agency investigated the case. 

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan Bailyn and Justin Chapman in West Palm Beach, Florida, prosecuted it.  

    Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or at http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov, under case number 23-cr-80209.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Global: AI methods help predict the emergence of ‘gazelles’ and other high-growth firms, but challenges remain

    Source: The Conversation – France – By Tatiana Beliaeva, Enseignante–chercheuse en entrepreneuriat, UCLy (Lyon Catholic University)

    Predicting whether or not companies will be successful is crucial for guiding investment decisions and designing effective economic policies. However, past research on high-growth firms – enterprises thought to be key for driving economic development – has typically shown low predictive accuracy, suggesting that growth may be largely random. Does this assumption still hold in the AI era, in which vast amounts of data and advanced analytical methods are now available? Can AI techniques overcome difficulties in predicting high-growth firms? These questions were raised in a chapter I co-authored in the De Gruyter Handbook of SME Entrepreneurship, which reviewed scientific contributions on firm growth prediction with AI methods.

    According to the Eurostat-OECD (Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development) definition, high-growth firms are businesses with at least 10 employees in the initial growth period and “average annualised growth greater than 20% per annum, over a three year period”. Growth can be measured by the firm’s number of employees or by its turnover. A subset of high-growth firms, known as “gazelles”, are young businesses – typically start-ups – that are up to five years old and experience fast growth.


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    High-growth firms drive development, innovation and job creation. Identifying firms with high-growth potential enables investors, start-up incubators, accelerators, large companies and policymakers to spot potential opportunities for investment, strategic partnerships and resource allocation at an early stage. Forecasting outcomes for start-ups is more challenging than doing so for large companies due to limited historical data, high uncertainty, and reliance on qualitative factors like founder experience and market fit.

    How random is firm growth?

    Accurate growth forecasting is especially crucial given the high failure rate of start-ups. One in five start-ups fail in their first year, and two thirds fail within 10 years. Some start-ups can also contribute significantly to job creation: research analysing data from Spanish and Russian firms between 2010 and 2018 has shown that while “gazelles” represented only about 1-2% of all businesses in both countries, they were responsible for approximately 14% of employment growth in Russia and 9% in Spain.

    High-growth firms are “widely considered essential for stimulating economic growth and employment” but are difficult to identify. Stakeholders need accurate growth predictions to help optimize decision-making and minimize risks by identifying firms with the highest potential for success.

    In an effort to understand why some firms grow faster than others, researchers have looked into various factors including the personality of entrepreneurs, competitive strategy, available resources, market conditions and macroeconomic environment. These factors, however, only explained a small portion of the variation in firm growth and were limited in their practical application. This led to the suggestion that predicting the growth of new businesses is like playing a game of chance. Another viewpoint argued that the problem of growth prediction might stem from the methods employed, suggesting an “illusion of randomness”.

    As firm growth is a complex, diverse, dynamic and non-linear process, adopting a new set of methods and approaches, such as those driven by big data and AI, can shed new light on the growth debate and forecasting.

    AI offers new opportunities for predicting high-growth firms

    AI methods are being increasingly adopted to forecast firm growth. For example, 70% of venture capital firms are adopting AI to increase internal productivity and facilitate and speed up sourcing, screening, classifying and monitoring start-ups with high potential. Crunchbase, a company data platform, claims that internal testing has shown that its AI models can predict start-up success with “95% precision” by analysing thousands of signals. These developments promise to fundamentally change how investors and businesses approach decision-making in private markets.

    The advantages of AI techniques lie in their ability to process a far greater volume, variety and velocity of data about businesses and their environments compared to traditional statistical methods. For example, machine learning methods such as random forest (RF) and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) help identify key variables affecting business outcomes in datasets with a large number of predictors. A “fused” large language model has been shown to predict start-up success using both structured (organized in tables) fundamental information and unstructured (unorganized and more complex) textual descriptions. AI techniques help enhance the accuracy of firm growth predictions, identify the most important growth factors and minimize human biases. As some scholars have noted, the improved prediction indicates that perhaps firm growth is less random than previously thought. Furthermore, the ability to capture data in real time is especially valuable in fast-paced, dynamic environments, such as high-technology industries.

    Challenges remain

    Despite AI’s rapid progress, there is still considerable potential for advancement. Although the prediction of high-growth firms has been improved with modern AI techniques, studies indicate that it continues to be a challenge. For instance, start-up success often depends on rapidly changing and intangible factors that are not easily captured by data. Further methodological advances, such as incorporating a broader range of predictors, diverse data sources and more sophisticated algorithms, are recommended.

    One of the main challenges for AI methods is their ability to offer explanations for the predictions they make. Predictions generated by complex deep learning models resemble a “black box”, with the causal mechanisms that transform input into output remaining unclear. Producing more explainable AI has become one of the key objectives set by the research community. Understanding what is explainable and what is not (yet) explainable with the use of AI methods can better guide practitioners in identifying and supporting high-growth firms.

    While start-ups offer the potential for significant investment returns, they carry considerable risks, making careful selection and accurate prediction crucial. As AI models evolve, they will increasingly integrate diverse and unstructured data sources and real-time market signals to detect early indicators of potential success. Advancements are expected to further enhance the scalability, accuracy, speed and transparency of AI-driven predictions, reshaping how high-growth firms are identified and supported.

    Tatiana Beliaeva ne travaille pas, ne conseille pas, ne possède pas de parts, ne reçoit pas de fonds d’une organisation qui pourrait tirer profit de cet article, et n’a déclaré aucune autre affiliation que son organisme de recherche.

    – ref. AI methods help predict the emergence of ‘gazelles’ and other high-growth firms, but challenges remain – https://theconversation.com/ai-methods-help-predict-the-emergence-of-gazelles-and-other-high-growth-firms-but-challenges-remain-255907

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –