NewzIntel.com

Category: CTF

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Bonta: Forced Reset Triggers Remain Illegal Under California Law

    Source: US State of California

    Monday, June 2, 2025

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

    OAKLAND – California Attorney General Rob Bonta today issued a new law enforcement bulletin affirming that “forced reset triggers” (FRTs) remain illegal under California law. At a minimum, FRTs are “multiburst trigger activators” under California Penal Code section 16930, and California Penal Code section 32900 prohibits the possession, sale, offering for sale, manufacture, importation, giving, or lending of such devices. On May 13, 2025, the United States Department of Justice executed a settlement agreement with several plaintiffs to address ongoing federal litigation that contested the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives’ (ATF) classification of FRTs as machine guns under the National Firearms Act of 1934. This settlement provides that the U.S. DOJ will stop regulating FRTs as machine guns under federal law and allow individual owners to request the return of FRTs that were seized by or voluntarily surrendered to the ATF, consistent with instructions to be provided by ATF. However, the U.S. DOJ’s settlement does not alter the fact that FRTs remain illegal under California law. 
     
    “No matter who oversees the federal government, California will remain the steadfast beacon of progress on gun safety that it has long been,” said Attorney General Bonta. “It is a devastating fact that in our nation, children and teens are more likely to die by gun violence than any illness or accident. California’s commonsense gun-safety laws save lives, and the prohibition of forced reset triggers is no exception. As firearms become faster, more powerful, and more deadly, the threat of these weapons being used for gun violence only increases. My office will continue to promote and defend gun-safety laws and fight to keep our communities safe.”
     
    An FRT is a device used in semiautomatic firearms that forcibly resets the trigger through operation of the firing cycle, enabling a quicker reset than a conventional spring-based trigger. A firearm that features an FRT allows the user to shoot at a higher rate compared to a standard trigger. The California Department of Justice has concluded that an FRT, at the very least, fits the definition of a multiburst trigger activator as outlined in Penal Code section 16930. As a result, an FRT cannot be owned, sold, offered for sale, manufactured, imported, given away, or lent in California according to Penal Code section 32900. Despite the U.S. DOJ’s settlement, California residents who possessed FRTs that have been voluntarily surrendered to or confiscated by the ATF should refrain from requesting their return under the terms of the settlement, and California dealers should not offer FRTs for sale.
     
    Should you have any questions, please contact the Bureau of Firearms, Customer Support Center at (916) 210-2300 or via email at Firearms.Bureau@doj.ca.gov. 
     
    A copy of the bulletin can be found here. 
     
     

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Guggenheim Investments Announces June 2025 Closed-End Fund Distributions

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, June 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Guggenheim Investments today announced that certain closed-end funds have declared their distributions. The table below summarizes the distribution schedule for each closed-end fund (collectively, the “Funds” and each, a “Fund”).

    The following dates apply to the distributions:

    Record Date June 13, 2025
    Ex-Dividend Date June 13, 2025
    Payable Date June 30, 2025
    Distribution Schedule
    NYSE
    Ticker    		 Closed-End Fund Name Distribution
    Per Share    		 Change from Previous
    Distribution    		 Frequency
    AVK Advent Convertible and Income Fund $0.1172†   Monthly
    GBAB Guggenheim Taxable Municipal Bond & Investment Grade Debt Trust $0.12573†   Monthly
    GOF Guggenheim Strategic Opportunities Fund $0.1821†   Monthly
    GUG Guggenheim Active Allocation Fund $0.11875†   Monthly


    †     A portion of this distribution is estimated to be a return of capital rather than income. Final determination of the character of distributions will be made at year-end. The Section 19(a) notice referenced below provides more information and can be found at www.guggenheiminvestments.com.

    You should not draw any conclusions about the Fund’s investment performance from the amount of this distribution or from the terms of the Fund’s Distribution Policy.

    Past performance is not indicative of future performance. As of this announcement, the sources of each fund distribution are estimates. Distributions may be paid from sources of income other than ordinary income, such as short-term capital gains, long-term capital gains or return of capital. Unless otherwise noted, the distributions above are not anticipated to include a return of capital. If a distribution consists of something other than ordinary income, a Section 19(a) notice detailing the anticipated source(s) of the distribution will be made available. The Section 19(a) notice will be posted to a Fund’s website and to the Depository Trust & Clearing Corporation so that brokers can distribute such notices to Shareholders of the Fund. Section 19(a) notices are provided for informational purposes only and not for tax reporting purposes. The final determination of the source and tax characteristics of all distributions will be made after the end of the year. This information is not legal or tax advice. Consult a professional regarding your specific legal or tax matters.

    About Guggenheim Investments

    Guggenheim Investments is the global asset management and investment advisory division of Guggenheim Partners, LLC (“Guggenheim”), with more than $246 billion* in assets under management across fixed income, equity, and alternative strategies. We focus on the return and risk needs of insurance companies, corporate and public pension funds, sovereign wealth funds, endowments and foundations, consultants, wealth managers, and high-net-worth investors. Our 220+ investment professionals perform rigorous research to understand market trends and identify undervalued opportunities in areas that are often complex and underfollowed. This approach to investment management has enabled us to deliver innovative strategies providing diversification opportunities and attractive long-term results.

    Guggenheim Investments includes Guggenheim Funds Investment Advisors, LLC (“GFIA”), Guggenheim Partners Investment Management, LLC (“GPIM”) and Guggenheim Funds Distributors, LLC (“GFD”). GFIA serves as Investment Adviser for GBAB, GOF and GUG. GPIM serves as Investment Sub-Adviser for GBAB, GOF and GUG. GFD serves as servicing agent for AVK. The Investment Adviser for AVK is Advent Capital Management, LLC and is not affiliated with Guggenheim.

    *Assets under management are as of 3.31.2025 and include leverage of $15.2bn. Guggenheim Investments represents the following affiliated investment management businesses of Guggenheim Partners, LLC: Guggenheim Partners Investment Management, LLC, Security Investors, LLC, Guggenheim Funds Distributors, LLC, Guggenheim Funds Investment Advisors, LLC, Guggenheim Corporate Funding, LLC, Guggenheim Wealth Solutions, LLC, Guggenheim Partners Europe Limited, Guggenheim Partners Japan Limited, GS GAMMA Advisors, LLC, and Guggenheim Private Investments, LLC.

    This information does not represent an offer to sell securities of the Funds and it is not soliciting an offer to buy securities of the Funds. There can be no assurance that the Funds will achieve their investment objectives. Investments in the Funds involve operating expenses and fees. The net asset value of the Funds will fluctuate with the value of the underlying securities. It is important to note that closed-end funds trade on their market value, not net asset value, and closed-end funds often trade at a discount to their net asset value. Past performance is not indicative of future performance. An investment in closed-end funds is subject to investment risk, including the possible loss of the entire amount that you invest. Some general risks and considerations associated with investing in a closed-end fund may include: Investment and Market Risk; Lower Grade Securities Risk; Equity Securities Risk; Foreign Securities Risk; Interest Rate Risk; Illiquidity Risk; Derivative Risk; Management Risk; Anti-Takeover Provisions; Market Disruption Risk and Leverage Risk. See www.guggenheiminvestments.com/cef for a detailed discussion of Fund-specific risks.

    Investors should consider the investment objectives and policies, risk considerations, charges and expenses of any investment before they invest. For this and more information, visit www.guggenheiminvestments.com or contact a securities representative or Guggenheim Funds Distributors, LLC 227 West Monroe Street, Chicago, IL 60606, 800-345-7999.

    Analyst Inquiries
    William T. Korver
    cefs@guggenheiminvestments.com

    Not FDIC-Insured | Not Bank-Guaranteed | May Lose Value
    Member FINRA/SIPC (06/25) 65080

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: In Fox News Op-Ed, Warren, Sheehy Announce Bipartisan Fight to Guarantee Military Right to Repair Its Equipment

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren

    May 29, 2025

    “On both sides of the aisle, many of us agree that waste, fraud, and abuse are real problems in our government – and it’s worse when it threatens our military readiness. It’s time to show servicemembers we’ve got their backs and restore their right to fix their own equipment.”

    Op-Ed in Fox News Digital

    Washington, D.C. — In a Fox News op-ed, U.S. Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and Tim Sheehy (R-Mont.) underscored how right to repair restrictions imposed by defense contractors hurt the military’s ability to respond to threats and bloat the national defense budget by blocking servicemembers from repairing weapons and equipment. The lawmakers called for every service of the military to follow Army Secretary Dan Driscoll’s lead and ensure the military has the right to repair the equipment it owns. The senators also announced a new bipartisan bill to make the right to repair policies permanent. 

    As the lawmakers outline, repair restrictions buried in the fine print of contracts threaten military readiness, raise costs unpredictably, and limit competition for military contracting. Contractors’ monopolization of repairs means that, for some contracts, the repairs are more profitable than the original sale. By some estimates, giving the military the right to repair would save taxpayers billions. 

    “Our military can’t afford to wait 207 days to get a helicopter back online…Imagine how frustrating it would be to be in the field up against an enemy, suffer an equipment break down, and there would be nothing to do about it. We need to end these dangerous right to repair restrictions so that our military is always ready,” wrote the senators. 

    “On both sides of the aisle, many of us agree that waste, fraud, and abuse are real problems in our government – and it’s worse when it threatens our military readiness. It’s time to show servicemembers we’ve got their backs and restore their right to fix their own equipment,” the lawmakers concluded. 

    Ready the full op-ed here and below: 

    SENS WARREN, SHEEHY: Pentagon wastes billions with devastating repair rules. We’re working together to stop it.
    May 28, 2025 

    Our defense industrial base is stumbling. For years, the U.S. Department of Defense – under both Republicans and Democrats – failed to address one of the most fundamental issues within our military industrial complex, perverse incentives for contractors. But with the recently announced Army Transformation Initiative, Secretary of the Army Dan Driscoll and General Randy George are taking a major step to stand up for soldiers and strengthen our military readiness. Driscoll’s plan will help end one source of waste, fraud, and abuse. Every other military branch should follow their lead – and, if they do, they will have our bipartisan support. 

    The Department of Defense is the largest federal agency, consuming half the discretionary budget the federal government spends every year. In 2023, for example, DoD spent almost $450 billion on contracts. But buried down deep in the fine print, many of those contracts included restrictions that prevent our troops from fixing their own weapons and equipment.  

    That fine print means that every time something breaks, DoD must call the contractor, schedule a repair visit, and pay a hefty fee. For some contracts, the repairs are more profitable than the original sale – a dynamic that represents how years of broken bureaucracy has slowed our acquisition process and driven costs higher and higher. 

    Our military buys a lot of gear – from tanks to helicopters to night vision goggles, and the process to buy that gear is longer and more complicated than ever. Even worse, because our service members often can’t make any repairs, they can be stuck waiting weeks or months, even for simple problems they could fix themselves with a little know-how and a 3D printer. 

    Driscoll has identified these problems in the Army, but right to repair restrictions have spread across the military. The Navy was forced to rely on flying contractors out to sea for maintenance. The Air Force is struggling to keep its planes ready for combat because of restrictions and companies that won’t even negotiate.  

    Every hour these servicemembers can’t fix their own weapons undermines their readiness to meet their assignments. Instead of working to help the military be ready for battle, these contractors are focused on squeezing out more revenue. 

    These restrictions lead to three critical problems: readiness, cost and lack of competition. 

    First, when contractors stop soldiers from fixing their own equipment, it threatens military readiness. All around the country, maintainers were struggling to keep the F-35 flying because Lockheed Martin won’t give them the data they need to fix damage to basic parts. When our military could fix a helicopter in Korea themselves, they saved 207 days and roughly $1.8 million. 

    Our military can’t afford to wait 207 days to get a helicopter back online. And, in the most extreme cases, our military can’t afford to have soldiers unable to repair equipment in the heat of battle, either because the contract has tied their hands or because they haven’t had the chance to learn how. 

    Imagine how frustrating it would be to be in the field up against an enemy, suffer an equipment breakdown, and there would be nothing to do about it. We need to end these dangerous right-to-repair restrictions so that our military is always ready.  

    Second, repair restrictions waste billions of dollars. If Boeing got the Pentagon to agree that only Boeing can repair equipment, what stops them from charging whatever they want for that fix? Suddenly a $0.16 clip costs $20, and the defense budget rises even higher. That is a terrible deal for the taxpayer.  

    By some estimates, giving the military the right to repair would save us billions. But more importantly, it would reinvigorate the operational resilience of our forward-deployed elements and allow them to self-sustain. 

    And third, letting a contractor monopolize repairs doesn’t just hurt taxpayers, it hurts small businesses that otherwise could compete for the repair work, depressing competition and thinning out our industrial base. Why would a small business start manufacturing a safety clip when the military is forced to go to its larger competitor to buy it? 

    And equally alarmingly, if that big contractor decided one day to stop producing the part, the military would be out of luck because the contractor had the only game in town. To be sure, the military created this monopolistic environment, incentivizing consolidation through decades of bureaucratic process. Now they are reaping the whirlwind. We need a more diverse array of contractors who can bring free market competition to our defense space, driving costs down and efficiencies up. 

    Until now, the military has enabled a broken status quo, handing over billions of dollars and hoping that there is no emergency when the equipment they need is sidelined. Meanwhile, over 70% of voters support giving the military the right to repair their own equipment. But Secretary of the Army Dan Driscoll showed real leadership. He stood up to a broken bureaucracy and announced that every new Army contract would explicitly guarantee the right of the Army to fix its own equipment. That’s a big deal.  

    The new Army policy is a breakthrough in our fight to empower soldiers, but unless every single military service follows his lead, taxpayers will keep getting ripped off. And, because this is a directive from the secretary, a subsequent secretary could go back to the way things were before. 

    But we have a plan to solve that problem. In the coming weeks, we will be introducing a bipartisan bill that would make changes to right to repair permanent. With a single change in the law, we can boost military readiness and cut costs by allowing servicemembers to repair their own equipment.  

    On both sides of the aisle, many of us agree that waste, fraud and abuse are real problems in our government – and it’s worse when it threatens our military readiness. It’s time to show servicemembers we’ve got their backs and restore their right to fix their own equipment. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch Joins Planned Parenthood of Northern New England for Roundtable on Republicans’ Attacks on Abortion and Reproductive Care

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) joined Planned Parenthood of Northern New England (PPNNE) for a roundtable highlighting the harmful consequences of Republicans’ reconciliation bill for patients in Vermont. The Republican budget would prohibit Planned Parenthood’s participation in Medicaid, end the Affordable Care Act’s Premium Tax Credits, and take away healthcare from children, seniors, Americans with disabilities, veterans, and rural Americans. The nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office determined that “defunding” Planned Parenthood would cost $300 million, increase the deficit and rip away health care coverage for more than 25 million Americans.
    Republican’s reconciliation bill targets Planned Parenthood by prohibiting Medicaid, which covers more than 80 million Americans, from using Planned Parenthood as a Medicaid provider. The nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office determined that “defunding” Planned Parenthood would cost $300 million, increase the deficit and rip away health care coverage for more than 25 million Americans.
    “President Trump and Republicans’ will hurt Vermonters and providers across our state, devastating our already strained health care system,” said Senator Welch. “Any claims that defunding Planned Parenthood will save money are bogus. In addition to ripping away patients’ access to care, defunding Planned Parenthood will raise health care costs in our state, as more Vermonters wait to see a care provider until it is an emergency or have nowhere else to turn for their care. I will continue to do everything I can to protect access to health care for communities small and large, safeguard access for patients, and lower costs for hardworking Vermonters.” 

    In Vermont, about 24% of PPNNE’s patients rely on Medicaid. Over the three-state organization, ‘defunding’ Planned Parenthood would result in a loss of $5 million annually for Planned Parenthood of Northern New England. In Vermont, nearly 16,000 patients are served annually across six health centers.
    In addition to this direct impact on PPNNE, the bill will result in more than 29,000 Vermonters losing health coverage. Conservative estimates for loss of coverage are 20,000 Vermonters on Medicaid and 8,000 Vermonters who buy their health care from Vermont Health Connect. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch Speaks About Trump’s Attack on Green Jobs at Energy Action Network (EAN) and EAN Climate Workforce Coalition Forum

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)

    WINOOSKI, VT – U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Ranking Member of the Senate Agriculture Subcommittee on Rural Development, Energy, and Credit, joined a forum hosted by the Energy Action Network (EAN) and the EAN Climate Workforce Coalition on how Congressional policy and budget decisions may impact Vermont’s energy transformation and climate action initiatives, including Vermont’s climate workforce. 
    “President Trump has put Big Oil first, and his attacks on green jobs prove it. He and his administration are walking back our global climate goals, gutting tax credits that help folks make energy efficiency home upgrades, and slashing green jobs and climate research. Vermonters have made their opposition to Trump’s actions clear—I’ve heard from hundreds of folks across our state who are deeply concerned about how Republicans’ budget will raise costs for families, businesses, and farmers,” said Senator Welch. “I’ll continue to join Senate Democrats in standing up to these attacks and fighting for a clean energy future.” 
    Republicans’ reconciliation bill will repeal clean energy programs established through the historic Inflation Reduction Act and raise energy costs for American households and businesses. It will eliminate jobs in manufacturing, clean technologies, and budding industries, and has already sown economic uncertainty throughout the energy sector. 
    The legislation advanced by the U.S. House of Representatives would effectively repeal many of the clean energy investments in the Inflation Reduction Act while expanding fossil fuel production and subsidies. Specifically, the bill: 

    Rescinds unspent funding for clean energy grant programs in the Inflation Reduction Act;  
    Eliminates or effectively eliminates most clean energy tax credits including: 

    Electric Vehicles Tax Credit for new and used vehicles;  
    Energy Efficiency Home Improvement Tax Credit; 
    Clean Electricity Investment and Production Tax Credits; 
    Advanced Manufacturing Production Credit; and 

    Mandates oil and gas leases on public lands and allows Big Oil companies to pay the government to fast-track environmental reviews. 

    All told, Republicans’ plans will have drastic consequences for the economy. Studies predict that repealing the Inflation Reduction Act will eliminate 790,000 jobs, increase energy costs for American consumers by $32 billion between 2025-35, and shrink the U.S. economy by $190 billion in 2035. President Trump’s policies have already killed $14 billion in clean energy investments and 10,000 new energy jobs since he took office. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Province reviewing Community Living BC home sharing

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    The Province is commissioning an independent review of Community Living BC’s (CLBC) home-sharing program to ensure people are receiving the best and safest service possible.

    “We want adults with developmental disabilities to live as independently as possible in a safe, welcoming and inclusive environment,” said Sheila Malcolmson, Minister of Social Development and Poverty Reduction. “We are reviewing CLBC’s home-sharing program to ensure that changes made since 2018 are getting people the highest quality of service possible.”

    Government has hired independent contractor Tamar Consultancy to assess safety in home-sharing arrangements, standards that promote quality of life, and accountability and oversight measures. The Ministry of Social Development and Poverty Reduction will convene an advisory body made up of individuals, families and service providers to provide input and advice for the contractor to inform its work and develop recommendations for the ministry.

    “Community Living BC welcomes this independent review,” said Shane Simpson, chair, CLBC board. “We want to do everything we can to make sure this model is as strong as it can be, because this is about keeping people safe, and we believe the number of people supported through the home-sharing model will grow considerably. We look forward to the conclusions and any suggestions or proposals that may arise from this review, with input from the families and people who receive services funded by CLBC and our partners.”

    CLBC has made a number of changes to its processes and oversight, including mandating home visits every three months, health-care planning and annual doctor visits, following the death of Florence Girard, who passed away in 2018 while living in a home-sharing arrangement.

    Home sharing is a CLBC-funded service where an adult with a developmental disability lives with a person, couple or family who is contracted through an agency to provide support. These supports include help with daily living, social connection and community inclusion. The goal of home sharing is to offer personalized, flexible support that helps adults with developmental disabilities achieve greater independence in a caring, secure and inclusive home setting.

    Quick Facts:

    • The review is expected to be finished by fall 2025.
    • About 4,300 people supported by CLBC live in home-sharing living arrangements.
    • Home-sharing providers can be a single person, a couple or a family, either renting or owning a home.
    • Arrangements can be long-term or a stepping stone to greater independence, and individuals accessing home sharing have their own space within the home.

    Learn More:

    Information about the CLBC governance structure can be found here: https://www.communitylivingbc.ca/about-us/leadership/

    To learn more about CLBC, visit: https://www.communitylivingbc.ca/

    For more information about home sharing, visit: https://www.communitylivingbc.ca/for-service-providers/home-sharing/

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI: 21Shares Announces 3-for-1 Share Split for ARK 21Shares Bitcoin ETF (ARKB)

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, June 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — 21Shares US LLC (“21Shares”), an affiliate of 21Shares AG, one of the world’s largest issuers of crypto exchange traded funds (“ETFs”), today announced a 3-for-1 share split for its flagship fund ARK 21Shares Bitcoin ETF (ARKB). This move is designed to make shares more accessible to a broader base of investors and enhance trading efficiency.

    The share split is expected to be effective at market open on June 16, 2025. Following the split, the fund’s shares will continue to trade under the ticker symbol “ARKB” under the same CUSIP, and the total net asset value (NAV) of ARKB will not change as a result of the split. The investment objective, strategy, and underlying holdings of the fund remain unchanged.

    Fund name Ticker CUSIP Split
    Ratio    		 Record
    Date    		 Pay Date Ex-Date
    ARK 21Shares
    Bitcoin ETF    		 ARKB 409191022 3:1 June 12,
    2025    		 June 13,
    2025    		 June 16,
    2025

    ARKB is a physically-backed Bitcoin ETF that seeks to track the performance of Bitcoin as measured by the performance of the CME CF Bitcoin Reference Rate – New York Variant. The fund is designed to offer investors regulated access to the world’s largest cryptocurrency.

    For more information on ARKB, please visit https://www.21shares.com/en-us/product/arkb.

    About 21Shares

    21Shares AG, an affiliate of 21Shares US LLC, the sponsor to the ARK 21Shares Bitcoin ETF (ARKB), is one of the world’s leading cryptocurrency exchange traded product providers and offers the largest suite of crypto ETPs in the market. The company was founded to make cryptocurrency more accessible to investors, and to bridge the gap between traditional finance and decentralized finance. 21Shares listed the world’s first physically-backed crypto ETP in 2018, building a seven-year track record of creating crypto exchange-traded funds that are listed on some of the biggest, most liquid securities exchanges globally. Backed by a specialized research team, proprietary technology, and deep capital markets expertise, 21Shares delivers innovative, simple and cost-efficient investment solutions.

    21Shares is a member of 21.co, a global leader in decentralized finance. For more information, please visit www.21Shares.com

    Contact: matteo.valli@21shares.com

    Important Information

    The information provided does not constitute a prospectus or other offering material and does not contain or constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of any offer to buy securities or financial instruments in any jurisdiction, including the United States. Some of the information published herein may contain forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements about the stock split, and are subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors beyond ARKB’s control, including those risks set forth in ARKB’s annual report on Form 10-K and subsequent SEC filings. The information contained herein may not be considered as economic, legal, tax, or other advice and viewers are cautioned not to base investment or any other decisions on the content hereof.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Altai Announces Repositioning of Investment Portfolio to Maximize Liquidity

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, June 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Altai Resources Inc. (TSXV: ATI) (“Altai” or the “Company”) announced today that the Company has completed the repositioning of its Canadian investment portfolio (the “Investment Portfolio”) through the sale of all marketable securities and the subsequent reinvestment of those net cash proceeds into cash and cash equivalents (the “Repositioning”), to maximize the liquidity of the Investment Portfolio and to eliminate any associated equity market risk.

    As a result of the Repositioning, the Company’s Investment Portfolio is now comprised of cash and cash equivalents, with a total market value of approximately $3.9 million. Based on the Company’s total issued and outstanding common shares of 56,033,552 as of May 30, 2025 (the “Common Shares”), the market value of the Investment Portfolio per Common Share is approximately $0.07.

    ABOUT THE COMPANY

    Altai Resources Inc. is a Toronto, Ontario based resource company with a producing oil property in Alberta, an exploration gold property in Quebec, and a Canadian investment portfolio comprised of cash and cash equivalents. Additional information about the Company is available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca and on the Company’s website at www.altairesources.com.

    For further information, please contact:
    Kursat Kacira, Chairman & CEO/President
    T: (647) 282-8324, E: kursatkacira@altairesources.ca

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

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: ibex to Present at Baird’s 2025 Global Consumer, Technology & Services Conference

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, June 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — IBEX Limited (NASDAQ: IBEX), a leading global provider of business process outsourcing (BPO) and AI-powered customer engagement technology solutions, today announced that CEO Bob Dechant and CFO Taylor Greenwald will participate in Baird’s 2025 Global Consumer, Technology & Services Conference in New York City.

    Dechant and Greenwald will host a “Fireside Chat” on Tuesday, June 3, 2025, at 2 p.m. ET to speak about the company and answer questions. They will also participate in one-on-one investor meetings.

    About ibex
    ibex delivers innovative business process outsourcing (BPO), smart digital marketing, online acquisition technology, and end-to-end customer engagement solutions to help companies acquire, engage and retain valuable customers. Today, ibex operates a global CX delivery center model consisting of approximately 30 operations facilities around the world, while deploying next generation technology to drive superior customer experiences for many of the world’s leading companies across retail, e-commerce, healthcare, fintech, utilities and logistics.

    ibex leverages its diverse global team of more than 31,000 employees together with industry-leading technology, including the AI-powered ibex Wave iX solutions suite, to manage nearly 175 million critical customer interactions, adding over $2.2B in lifetime customer revenue each year and driving a truly differentiated customer experience. To learn more, visit our website at ibex.co and connect with us on LinkedIn.

    IR Contact:  Michael Darwal, EVP, Investor Relations, ibex, michael.darwal@ibex.co
    Media Contact:  Dan Burris, VP, Marketing and Communications, ibex, daniel.burris@ibex.co

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Alford Requests Report Reviewing Biden Administration’s Use of Race-Based Criteria in Relief for Farmers

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mark Alford (Missouri 4th District)

    Following groundbreaking investigative reporting from NewsNation, Congressman Mark Alford (MO-04) sent a letter to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), the USDA’s Inspector General (IG), and the Government Accountability Office (GAO), requesting a report within 90 days on the Biden Administration’s continued use of race-based, DEI criteria in loan relief programs for farmers, even after a federal court ruled it unconstitutional.

    Read the full letter here or below:

    “Dear Secretary Rollins, Comptroller General Dodaro, and Inspector General Sorensen,

    “I am writing to urgently request a review of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) policies in United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) programs authorized by the Biden Administration. As first reported by NewsNation, socially disadvantaged farmers were provided additional loan relief in Section 1005 of the American Rescue Act. Picking winners and losers within American Agriculture is a disservice to both consumers and producers and deserves immediate attention. Simply put, this is racial discrimination.

    “Specifically, Section 1005 provides funding for the USDA to pay off outstanding farm loan debts of up to 120 percent for socially disadvantaged farmers and ranchers. As defined in Section 2501(a) of the Food, Agriculture Conservation and Trade Act of 1990, ‘socially disadvantaged farmer or rancher’ means a farmer or rancher who is a member of a socially disadvantaged group, essentially ensuring white farmers could not receive loan forgiveness.

    “As a result, several Caucasian farmers sued in federal court alleging that this provision was race-based and unconstitutional. Even though the federal court judge agreed that constitutional harm was found, the Biden Administration’s USDA did not cease their wrongful and racial distribution of assistance. In fact, the administration turned toward the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) to continue offering assistance specifically for farmers with socially disadvantaged status. This is outrageous and any program based on race is inherently unconstitutional, racist, and wrong. Our nation’s farmers work sunup to sundown to feed, fuel and clothe the world, regardless of the color of their skin, and none of them deserve this type of discrimination.

    “I am proud of the steps President Trump and his administration have taken and continue to take to eliminate DEI from our government. Which is why it is of the upmost importance we investigate these programs and their implications on American farmers. I implore you to complete a report outlining the scope of socially disadvantaged farmer programs under the Biden administration, their geographical reach, and their financial impact within 90 days.

    It is essential that this egregious overreach never occurs again. Our farmers and ranchers should be empowered as the backbone of America.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Becca Balint Statement on 10 Construction Workers Detained by ICE in Vermont

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Becca Balint (VT-AL)

    Rep. Balint (VT-AL) released the following statement in response to the detention of ten construction workers at an affordable housing construction site in Newport on Thursday by Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

    “Today we learned that ten construction workers were detained by ICE at an affordable housing site Newport, Vermont. My office is closely monitoring the situation to ensure every person in this country is given the due process they deserve. 

    “The fear of being snatched up by ICE just for showing up to work does not make our communities safer. It takes away parents and family members from their homes and creates a looming sense of distrust among neighbors. This marks the second mass immigration raid in our state since Trump took office. This is an administration that governs by fear, chaos, and division. This violates our nation’s deeply held values of due process for all and the rule of law.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kiggans, Jacobs Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Streamline Medical Credentialing for Military Providers

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Sara Jacobs (D-CA-53)

    May 30, 2025

    Yesterday, Congresswoman Jen Kiggans (VA-02) introduced the Digital Oversight of Credentials for Service Members (DOCS) Act alongside Congresswoman Sara Jacobs (CA-51). This bipartisan bill streamlines how the Department of Defense verifies licenses for military healthcare providers, ensuring they can deliver care without unnecessary bureaucratic delays.

    Right now, military doctors, nurses, and specialists often face lengthy re-credentialing processes when they transfer—sometimes even within the same facility. These delays contribute to staffing gaps and put added strain on an already overburdened healthcare system.

    “As a Navy veteran and healthcare provider, I know how frustrating and harmful these delays can be,” said Congresswoman Kiggans. “The DOCS Act delivers a simple, commonsense solution: verify licenses quickly, centrally, and consistently—so our providers can do what they were trained to do: take care of our service members and their families.”

    “Bureaucratic red tape shouldn’t delay military doctors and nurses from seeing and treating their patients for months,” said Congresswomen Jacobs. “But unfortunately, bottlenecks in military treatment facilities (MTFs) recredentialing – even when moving from one military facility to another – can take up to six months. That’s why I’m proud to partner with Congresswoman Kiggans to introduce bipartisan legislation to streamline the MTFs recredentialing process so we can protect patient safety and make patient care more efficient.”

    “This commonsense legislation helps protect the value, with high quality and access, of the service-earned health care benefit — a key to the success and stability of the all-volunteer force,” Lt Gen (ret) Brian Kelly, President & CEO, Military Officers Association of America (MOAA) said. “MOAA thanks Congresswoman Kiggans for championing this cause, and we look forward to working with Congress on more ways to modernize, strengthen, and support the military health care system.”

    You can find the full text of this bill here.

    You can find a one-pager on this bill here.

    Background:

    • The Department of Defense employs thousands of licensed medical professionals to care for service members and their families.
    • Currently, a provider’s move—even within the same base—can require redundant and lengthy re-credentialing processes.
    • Inconsistent credentialing timelines contribute to workforce shortages, delayed care, and frustration among providers.

    Specifically, this legislation would:

    • Require the Secretary of Defense to create a centralized credentialing system for all uniformed and civilian DoD medical providers.
    • Ensure that 90% of license verifications are completed within seven days of request—dramatically improving access to care.
    • Allow commanding officers at any facility to verify a provider’s license, regardless of service branch or location.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Presidential Message on Global Coptic Day, 2025

    US Senate News:

    Source: US Whitehouse
    class=”has-text-align-left”>Today, I join the Coptic Orthodox Christian community in observing Global Coptic Day—a celebration of the ancient heritage, rich culture, and reverent worship of the Coptic Orthodox Church.
    Tracing its roots to Saint Mark, the apostle of Jesus Christ and Evangelist who brought the Christian faith to Egypt in the first century, the Coptic Church has been a beacon of Christendom in Africa for nearly 2,000 years.  The Coptic community has left an indelible mark on the hearts of millions of Christians—most evidently seen in their timeless contributions to Christian theology and culture.
    This Global Coptic Day, we also pause to reflect upon the vicious and ongoing persecution of Coptic Orthodox Christians in Africa and across the Middle East.  In 2015, 21 Coptic construction workers were brutally executed by ISIS terrorists in Libya.  Like persecuted Christians all around the world, these heroic martyrs refused to renounce their faith—They exemplified their sacrificial love and steadfast devotion to God, even in the face of certain death.  The Copts’ persistence amid relentless persecution is a living testament to their unbreakable resolve and fearless dedication to spreading the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
    As we remember the extraordinary contributions and tragic martyrdoms of Coptic Orthodox Christians, my Administration renews its commitment to vigorously defending the right to religious liberty, a bedrock of the American way of life.  I was honored to recently establish the Religious Liberty Commission, a team of religious leaders tasked with ensuring that Americans can freely practice their faith without government interference.  I also signed an Executive Order to eradicate the pervasive anti-Christian bias sweeping across our Nation—correcting the unjust abuses, investigations, and persecutions of faithful Christians that occurred under the previous administration.
    As our Nation celebrates Global Coptic Day, we pray for an increased love of God and a rebirth of religious faith both in the United States and around the world.  Today and every day, may the treasured traditions of the Coptic Orthodox Christian community serve as a light for all Americans—and may their unwavering devotion to Christ inspire our Nation to renew our love, faith, and trust in Almighty God.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senators Coons, Grassley introduce AI Whistleblower Protection Act

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Delaware Christopher Coons

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Chris Coons (D-Del.) and Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) introduced the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Whistleblower Protection Act, which provides explicit whistleblower protections to those developing and deploying AI. Currently, AI companies’ restrictive severance and nondisclosure agreements (NDAs) create a chilling effect on current and former employees looking to make whistleblower disclosures to the federal government, including Congress.  

    The legislation establishes employment protections for current and former AI employees who make disclosures of violations of law or of failures to respond to substantial dangers that AI may pose to public safety, public health, or national security. This includes relief for AI whistleblowers who suffer retaliation, including applicable reinstatement, back pay, and compensation for damages incurred.  The bill would reinforce other efforts that Senator Coons has led, including the bipartisan Platform Accountability and Transparency Act, to provide regulators, independent researchers, and the public important information about the dangers of technology that are currently known only to tech companies.

    “AI is rapidly evolving in ways that have the potential to radically reshape our society and transform our world for the better and for the worse,” said Senator Coons. “I have long been concerned with how much more tech companies know about the risks and harms of their products compared with regulators, independent researchers, and the public. The AI Whistleblower Protection Act is a critical tool, among others, that Congress must enact to ensure that we can get the best out of AI while also learning when it poses a substantial danger to public safety.”

    “Transparency brings accountability. Today, too many people working in AI feel they’re unable to speak up when they see something wrong. Whistleblowers are one of the best ways to ensure Congress keeps pace as the AI industry rapidly develops. We need to act to make these protections crystal clear. I’m proud to introduce this legislation to increase accountability and protect AI whistleblowers,” said Senator Grassley.

    Additional co-sponsors include Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Josh Hawley (R-Mo.), and Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii). Representatives Jay Obernolte (R-Calif.) and Ted Lieu (D-Calif.) are introducing companion legislation in the House of Representatives.  

    The legislation is endorsed by the National Whistleblower Center, Government Accountability Project, Center for AI Policy, Encode AI, Americans for Responsible Innovation, and The Anti-Fraud Coalition.

    “The introduction of the [AI Whistleblower Protection Act] answers the call for AI industry employee whistleblower protections that will serve to protect the public, marking a turning point in guaranteeing transparency and accountability over AI companies,” said Stephen Kohn, Co-Founder and Chairman of the Board of the National Whistleblower Center. “National Whistleblower Center extends its sincere appreciation to [Senator Grassley], and [his] fellow sponsors and cosponsors, for championing this bill and taking a stand for all AI employees.”

    “In a time when AI technologies are advancing faster than many institutions can keep up, it’s absolutely vital that the federal government has access to accurate, truthful information about the dangers AI poses to public health and public safety,” said Jason Green-Lowe, Executive Director of the Center for AI Policy. 

    “[This] bill offers crucial protection for AI whistleblowers,” said Jacklyn DeMar, President & CEO of The Anti-Fraud Coalition. “Sector-based whistleblower protections are desperately needed to allow insiders within the AI industry to best protect investors and ensure proper safety protocols are implemented. Given the rapid development and adoption of AI throughout our society, insiders working within the industry need to be properly protected when they blow the whistle.”

    “As AI systems grow more powerful and autonomous, we must shield those who sound the alarm about emerging risks. The engineers and researchers closest to these systems are the first to spot dangerous vulnerabilities or safety gaps,” said Sunny Gandhi, Vice President of Political Affairs at Encode AI. “The AI Whistleblower Protection Act creates a vital safety valve for our AI ecosystem, ensuring that legitimate national security concerns reach regulators before they spiral into preventable harm.”

    “Ensuring transparency and accountability in the rapidly evolving field of AI is a public interest and national security imperative,” said Brad Carson, President of Americans for Responsible Innovation. “Employees in the industry have firsthand knowledge of practices that may jeopardize public safety and our national security. The AI Whistleblower Protection Act ensures they aren’t silenced by a fear of retaliation.”

    Senator Coons is a member and former Chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee’s Intellectual Property Subcommittee. He has led legislative efforts related to AI, focusing on American leadership in the sector, intellectual property, and potential threats associated with AI. 

    The text of the bill is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Tribunal Continues Order—Thermoelectric Containers from China

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    Ottawa, Ontario, June 2, 2025—The Canadian International Trade Tribunal today continued its order made on September 5, 2019, in expiry review RR‑2018‑004, concerning the dumping and subsidizing of certain thermoelectric containers originating in or exported from China.

    The Tribunal found that the expiry of the order was likely to result in injury. As such, the Tribunal continued its order. The Canada Border Services Agency will therefore continue to impose anti‑dumping and countervailing duties on these products.

    The Tribunal is an independent quasi-judicial body that reports to Parliament through the Minister of Finance. It hears cases on dumped and subsidized imports, safeguard complaints, complaints about federal government procurement and appeals of customs and excise tax rulings. When requested by the federal government, the Tribunal also provides advice on other economic, trade and tariff matters.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Lamont Receives Report on Independent Investigation Regarding Vehicle Use

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    (HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont today announced that he has received the final report of the independent investigation he commissioned regarding the use of state-owned motor vehicles assigned to the Office of the Governor. The investigation was conducted by Shipman & Goodwin LLP.

    “I asked for an investigation to be conducted by an independent firm because I believe the people of Connecticut deserve transparency and accountability from their government, and I remind my team every day that we need to lead by example,” Governor Lamont said. “To correct this issue and ensure better accountability, my office immediately adopted internal controls and policies around acceptable use of state vehicles and returned pooled vehicles to DAS.”

    Late last year around the same time that he commissioned the investigation, the governor mandated that all staff who use vehicles assigned to the office take a training course on the proper use of state-owned motor vehicles.

    Last month, a decision was made to return the two motor vehicles assigned to the office back to the fleet maintained by the Connecticut Department of Administrative Services. Accordingly, the Office of the Governor no longer has any motor vehicles assigned to it and staff are no longer using them.

    **Download: Final report of independent investigation conducted by Shipman & Goodwin LLP

     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Federal Reserve Board announces approval of application by Crown Agents Bank Limited

    Source: US State of New York Federal Reserve

    Official websites use .govA .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

    Secure .gov websites use HTTPSA lock (
    Lock
    Locked padlock icon

    ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Construction Manager Sentenced to Prison for Multimillion-Dollar Embezzlement and Tax Evasion

    Source: US FBI

    Jay Clayton, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, announced today that JOSE GARCIA was sentenced to 27 months in prison for committing two lengthy fraud crimes—a $4.5 million embezzlement crime and a $2.1 million tax evasion crime.  In the embezzlement scheme, GARCIA had a lucrative no-show job with a technology company from 2012 to 2019.  GARCIA did no work for the technology company, but GARCIA’s co-conspirator, a technology executive, approved millions in payments to GARCIA and GARCIA’s shell entities.  In the tax evasion scheme, GARCIA neither filed tax returns nor paid income taxes from 2011 through 2019.  GARCIA previously pled guilty to wire fraud conspiracy and tax evasion before U.S. District Judge Dale E. Ho, who imposed today’s sentence.  Three other members of the embezzlement conspiracy have also pled guilty to date.

    “Jose Garcia engaged in a lengthy embezzlement scheme that involved a no-show job, fraudulent billings, and largescale cash kickbacks,” said U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton. “Garcia then doubled-down and sought to conceal his embezzlement activities by committing another crime – tax evasion.  In all, Garcia stole millions at the expense of hard-working, tax-paying Americans.  He then used the proceeds of his frauds to fund a lavish lifestyle.  For these brazen crimes, Garcia has been sentenced to prison.”

    According to the allegations contained in the Indictment, the Superseding Information to which GARCIA pled guilty, and statements made in public filings and in public court proceedings:

    The Embezzlement Scheme

    From approximately May 2010 through February 2019, GARCIA’s co-defendant, Mark Angarola, spearheaded a large fraud scheme to unlawfully enrich himself and his co-conspirators (the “Conspirators”) by submitting and causing to be submitted fraudulent invoices and expenses to an information technology (“IT”) services company (the “Contractor”), at which Angarola was employed in a senior position. In total, the embezzlement scheme caused a loss of more than $7 million.  GARCIA received the majority of the scheme’s fraud proceeds: $4,554,950.

    Angarola was a New York-based Global Account General Manager at the Contractor.  He was responsible for managing the Contractor’s relationship with a particular client, which was a subsidiary of a global financial institution (the “Client”).  The Contractor had a service contract with the Client, pursuant to which the Contractor provided IT support services to the Client at locations across the U.S.  The Contractor subcontracted certain of this work to a technology solutions company (the “Subcontractor”).  Pursuant to the agreement between the Contractor and the Subcontractor (the “Subcontract”), the Subcontractor provided certain IT support services directly to the Client in the place of the Contractor.  Angarola was responsible for oversight of the Subcontractor’s performance on the Subcontract, which included approving payment to the Subcontractor on invoices submitted for work purportedly performed and expenses purportedly incurred in the Subcontractor’s performance on the Subcontract.

    Angarola abused his position to fraudulently enrich himself, his family, and his friends.  For instance, he arranged for the Subcontractor to hire certain of his family members, friends, and subordinates, despite the fact that these individuals lacked apparent qualifications to perform deskside IT work.  He arranged for the Subcontractor to hire, among others, his wife (a homemaker); his former college roommate (a police sergeant); and his close friends, including GARCIA (a construction manager) and GARCIA’s wife (a schoolteacher).  Thereafter, various Conspirators falsely reported to the Subcontractor that they had performed work under the Subcontract and incurred business expenses.  The Subcontractor submitted invoices to the Contractor for the hours purportedly worked and business expenses purportedly incurred by several of the Conspirators, and Angarola, in turn, caused the Contractor to pay the Subcontractor on these fraudulent invoices.  The purported business expenses incurred by several Conspirators, and ultimately paid for by the Contractor at the direction of Angarola, included restaurant meals, hotel stays, transportation fees, a cruise, and gentlemen’s clubs.  In fact, the expenses were personal expenses and were not reimbursable under the Contractor’s policy.

    GARCIA was a central beneficiary of the embezzlement scheme and received the majority of the fraud proceeds.  These fraud proceeds were paid in part to GARCIA personally, and in part to his shell entities.  GARCIA did no work whatsoever for the Contractor or Subcontractor, but invoiced the Subcontractor, month after month, requesting payment for purported “Management Fees.” For instance, at different points in the scheme, GARCIA requested monthly payment of $36,000, $45,000, $51,000, or $60,000.  Angarola approved these payments to GARCIA on behalf of his employer, the Contractor. In return, GARCIA paid Angarola cash kickbacks exceeding $1 million.  GARCIA participated in the embezzlement scheme despite having fulltime, gainful employment elsewhere as a consultant and project manager in the construction industry.

    Financial records reveal that GARCIA spent fraud proceeds on, among other things, private school tuition, rent, luxury travel, luxury items, gym memberships, and sports memorabilia.  For instance, GARCIA paid for stays at luxury hotels such as the Ritz Carlton (in four different cities), the Waldorf Astoria, and the Plaza.  And GARCIA spent more than $50,000 on luxury items, including expensive purchases at Cartier, Hermes, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Bulgari, Burberry, Bianca Jewelers, a glass blower in Venice, and a violin shop specializing in Stradivarius models.

    Tax Evasion

    From 2011 through 2019, GARCIA also committed tax evasion, resulting in a tax loss to the Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”) of approximately $2,116,605.  For this nine-year period, GARCIA neither filed tax returns nor paid income taxes. As such, GARCIA failed to report to the IRS the income he derived from the embezzlement scheme as well as the income he derived from other business interests and sources.   GARCIA used shell entities to conceal his receipt of income, including by creating such entities, diverting income to such entities, and using entity bank accounts to pay for his personal expenses.

    *                *                *

    In addition to his prison term, GARCIA, 53, of New York, New York, was sentenced to three years of supervised release.  GARCIA was also ordered to forfeit $4,554,950 and pay restitution in the amount of $7,007,055.

    Mr. Clayton praised the outstanding investigative efforts of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, New York Field Office; the IRS-Criminal Investigation, New York Field Office; and the U.S. Department of Labor – Office of Inspector General, Northeast Regional Office.

    This matter is being handled by the Office’s Complex Frauds and Cybercrime Unit, along with the Justice Department’s Tax Division.  Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael D. Neff, Timothy V. Capozzi, and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Jorge Almonte of the Tax Division are in charge of the prosecution.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Father and Son Plead Guilty to Defrauding Sports Park Bondholders

    Source: US FBI

    Jay Clayton, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, announced today that RANDY MILLER and CHAD MILLER pled guilty to securities fraud and aggravated identity theft in connection with their scheme to defraud municipal bond investors.  The defendants pled guilty before U.S. Magistrate Judge Robyn F. Tarnofsky and will be sentenced before U.S. District Judge Lewis A. Kaplan at a later date.

    “Randy and Chad Miller’s fraudulent actions resulted in nearly total losses for investors,” said U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton.  “As today’s guilty pleas make clear, this Office remains committed to protecting the integrity of the public finance system and holding accountable those who exploit investors’ trust.  This case demonstrates the strength of our partnership with the FBI, whose diligent investigation uncovered the defendants’ fraud.”

    According to the allegations contained in the Indictment, the Superseding Information, public filings, and statements made in court:

    RANDY MILLER and CHAD MILLER defrauded investors in municipal bonds used to fund the development of a major sports complex in Mesa, Arizona called Legacy Park.  In connection with the initial $250 million bond offering in August 2020 and supplemental bond offering in June 2021, the defendants lied to potential investors about the interest sports organizations and other potential customers had in using or relocating to Legacy Park.  The defendants and their associates forged and altered purported “binding” letters of intent and other documents from those potential customers to make it appear that the customers were committing to holding many events at Legacy Park, with a significant number of spectators, and agreeing to pay large fees – all far beyond what the organizations were considering, if they were considering Legacy Park at all.  In some instances, RANDY MILLER and CHAD MILLER signed and directed others to sign customers’ names without the customers’ knowledge or permission.  At other times, the defendants copied and directed others to copy the signatures of other customers onto the fabricated letters, again without the customers’ knowledge or permission.  As part of their scheme, the defendants forged documents on behalf of numerous persons and organizations, including an organization that promotes sports for disabled athletes.

    RANDY MILLER and CHAD MILLER presented the fraudulent documents to prospective bond investors and incorporated them into their solicitation materials by claiming that Legacy Park would be 100% occupied at opening and would generate nearly $100 million in revenue in its first year of operations, more than enough to cover the bond payments. 

    After the Legacy Park bonds were sold to investors, RANDY MILLER and CHAD MILLER profited personally from the bond proceeds raised.  Legacy Park opened in 2022 and failed shortly thereafter, defaulting on its bonds in October 2022 and filing for bankruptcy in May 2023.  The project was later sold in bankruptcy for less than $26 million.  Of those proceeds, less than $2.5 million went to repay the approximately $284 million owed to Legacy Park bondholders.

    *               *                *

    RANDY MILLER, 70, and CHAD MILLER, 41, both of Phoenix, Arizona, pled guilty to one count of securities offering fraud, which carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison, and one count of aggravated identity theft, which carries a mandatory consecutive sentence of two years in prison.  As part of their guilty pleas, money judgments in the amounts of $7,289,134.89 and $4,798,980.19 were entered against RANDY MILLER and CHAD MILLER, respectively.

    The maximum potential sentence in this case is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendants will be determined by a judge. 

    Mr. Clayton praised the outstanding work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation.  Mr. Clayton also thanked the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, which has filed a parallel civil action. 

    The case is being handled by the Office’s Securities and Commodities Fraud Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Matthew R. Shahabian and Courtney L. Heavey are in charge of the prosecution.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Woman Bound for Dubai Arrested at Airport and Indicted in Feeding Our Future Scheme

    Source: US FBI

    MINNEAPOLIS – The 71st defendant in the Feeding Our Future fraud scheme has been indicted with two counts of wire fraud following her failed attempt to leave the country for Dubai, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Lisa D. Kirkpatrick.

    According to court documents, Hibo Daar, 50, owned and operated an entity called Northside Wellness Center. In 2020, Daar applied to use Northside Wellness Center as a food distribution site in the federal child nutrition program under the sponsorship of Feeding Our Future. Using Northside Wellness, Daar purportedly served thousands and thousands of meals to children from a small business park on Hennepin Avenue in Minneapolis. At times, Daar completed and signed meal count forms on which she claimed to be serving 40,000 meals to children from the Northside Wellness site each week. Court documents explain that those meal counts were inflated, and that Daar used false invoices and false attendance rosters to bolster those inflated claims. Daar’s Northside Wellness site submitted over $2.4 million in reimbursement claims. A bank account Daar controlled received more than $1.7 million in taxpayer dollars from those claims. Financial records indicate that Daar used only a tiny portion of those dollars to purchase food and instead transferred most of that money to family, associates, and to herself. Court documents further describe that Daar paid $72,000 in bribes to a Feeding Our Future employee to ensure processing of Daar’s fraudulent reimbursement claims.

    Federal agents apprehended Daar at the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport this week before she could board a flight booked to Dubai. Daar is currently in custody pending a detention hearing scheduled for May 30.

    “As we have said, the U.S. Attorney’s Office is not stopping.  We will continue to investigate and charge defendants who defrauded the government in the Feeding Our Future case—the largest COVID fraud scheme in the country and the single largest case charged in the history of this office,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Lisa D. Kirkpatrick.  “Our work is not done.”

    “Fraud against the government takes money out of taxpayers’ pockets,” said Special Agent in Charge Alvin M. Winston Sr. of FBI Minneapolis. “Criminals who exploit government programs for personal gain will face the full weight of justice. The FBI and our law enforcement partners condemn these actions and will continue to work to protect the public from these damaging schemes.”

    This case is the result of an investigation by the FBI, IRS – Criminal Investigations, and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joseph H. Thompson, Matthew S. Ebert, Harry M. Jacobs and Daniel W. Bobier are prosecuting the case.

    An indictment is merely an allegation, and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: HCI Group Announces Completion of its 2025 – 2026 Catastrophe Reinsurance Programs

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TAMPA, Fla., June 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — HCI Group, Inc. (NYSE: HCI) has successfully completed its catastrophe reinsurance programs for the 2025-2026 treaty year, which runs from June 1, 2025 through May 31, 2026.

    “We are grateful for the strong support from our global reinsurance partners, whose continued confidence in HCI underscores the quality of our underwriting and our disciplined approach to risk,” said Paresh Patel, HCI’s chairman and chief executive officer. “We believe our reinsurance programs are prudently structured to protect the long-term financial stability of our insurance companies. With the reinsurance placement now finalized, we are well-positioned to pursue strategic initiatives aimed at delivering sustained value to our shareholders.”

    HCI secured three reinsurance towers for the 2025-2026 treaty year. Reinsurance Tower 1 is shared between HCI subsidiary, Homeowners Choice Property & Casualty Insurance Company, and HCI sponsored reciprocal insurance company, Tailrow Insurance Exchange, and covers all Homeowners Choice policies issued in Florida and all Tailrow policies issued in Florida. Reinsurance Tower 2 is shared between HCI subsidiary, TypTap Insurance Company, and Homeowners Choice and covers all TypTap policies (whether issued in Florida or outside of Florida) and all Homeowners Choice policies issued outside of Florida. Reinsurance Tower 3 covers all Condo Owners Reciprocal Exchange policies issued in Florida. Condo Owners Reciprocal Exchange, known as CORE, is a reciprocal insurance company sponsored by HCI.

    Across the three reinsurance towers, HCI secured over $3.5 billion in excess of loss aggregate limit and full reinstatement premium protection for the 2025-2026 treaty year. Claddaugh Casualty Insurance Company Ltd, HCI’s Bermuda-based reinsurance subsidiary, selectively participates across all three reinsurance towers. All participating reinsurers are AM Best rated ‘A-’ (Excellent) or better or have fully collateralized their obligations to HCI.

    The statutory retentions for the first and second event are $18 million for both Reinsurance Tower 1 and Reinsurance Tower 2, and $3 million for Reinsurance Tower 3. Claddaugh’s estimated maximum retained loss is approximately $117 million for a first event and $35 million for a second event.

    For the three reinsurance towers, HCI expects to incur net consolidated reinsurance premiums ceded to third parties, excluding Claddaugh, of approximately $422 million from June 1, 2025 through May 31, 2026. The reinsurance premiums are an estimate based on exposure projections and subject to true up at September 30, 2025.

    More information is available in the Company’s Form 8-K, filed today with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.

    About HCI Group, Inc.
    HCI Group is a holding company with two distinct operating units. The first unit includes four top-performing insurance companies, a captive reinsurance company, and operations in claims management and real estate. The second unit, called Exzeo Group, is a leading innovator of insurance technology that utilizes advanced underwriting algorithms and data analytics. Exzeo empowers property and casualty insurers to transform underwriting outcomes and achieve industry-leading results.

    The company’s common shares trade on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol “HCI” and are included in the Russell 2000 and S&P SmallCap 600 Index. HCI Group, Inc. regularly publishes financial and other information in the Investor Information section of the company’s website. For more information about HCI Group and its subsidiaries, visit www.hcigroup.com.

    Company Contact:
    Bill Broomall, CFA
    Investor Relations
    HCI Group, Inc.
    Tel (813) 776-1012
    wbroomall@exzeo.com

    Investor Relations Contact:
    Matt Glover
    Gateway Group, Inc.
    Tel 949-574-3860
    HCI@gateway-grp.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Turtle Beach Corporation to Participate in Fireside Chat Hosted by Maxim Group

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN DIEGO, June 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Turtle Beach Corporation (Nasdaq: TBCH), a leading gaming accessories brand, today announced that Cris Keirn, Chief Executive Officer, and Mark Weinswig, Chief Financial Officer, will participate in a fireside chat at the Maxim Group 2025 Virtual Tech Conference, on Wednesday, June 4 at 2:00p.m. ET.

    A live webcast of the event will be available through the “Events & Presentations” section of TBCH’s website at corp.turtlebeach.com. A replay of the webcast will be available on the investor relations website for two weeks.

    About Turtle Beach Corporation
    Turtle Beach Corporation (the “Company”) (corp.turtlebeach.com) is one of the world’s leading gaming accessory providers. The Company’s namesake Turtle Beach brand (www.turtlebeach.com) is known for designing best-selling gaming headsets, top-rated game controllers, award-winning PC gaming peripherals, and groundbreaking gaming simulation accessories. Innovation, first-to-market features, a broad range of products for all types of gamers, and top-rated customer support have made Turtle Beach a fan-favorite brand and the market leader in console gaming audio for over a decade. Turtle Beach Corporation acquired Performance Designed Products LLC (www.pdp.com) in 2024. Turtle Beach’s shares are traded on the Nasdaq Exchange under the symbol: TBCH.

    Cautionary Note on Forward-Looking Statements
    This press release includes forward-looking information and statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws. Except for historical information contained in this release, statements in this release may constitute forward-looking statements regarding assumptions, projections, expectations, targets, intentions, or beliefs about future events. Statements containing the words “may”, “could”, “would”, “should”, “believe”, “expect”, “anticipate”, “plan”, “estimate”, “target”, “goal”, “project”, “intend” and similar expressions, or the negatives thereof, constitute forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are only predictions and are not guarantees of performance. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties, which could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement. The inclusion of such information should not be regarded as a representation by the Company, or any person, that the objectives of the Company will be achieved. Forward-looking statements are based on management’s current beliefs and expectations, as well as assumptions made by, and information currently available to, management.

    While the Company believes that its expectations are based upon reasonable assumptions, there can be no assurances that its goals and strategy will be realized. Numerous factors, including risks and uncertainties, may affect actual results and may cause results to differ materially from those expressed in forward-looking statements made by the Company or on its behalf. Some of these factors include, but are not limited to, risks related to trade policies, including the imposition of tariffs on imported goods and other trade restrictions, the release and availability of successful game titles, macroeconomic conditions affecting the demand for our products, logistic and supply chain challenges and costs, dependence on the success and availability of third-parties to manufacture and manage the logistics of transporting and distributing our products, the substantial uncertainties inherent in the acceptance of existing and future products, the difficulty of commercializing and protecting new technology, the impact of competitive products and pricing, general business and economic conditions, risks associated with the expansion of our business including the integration of any businesses we acquire and the integration of such businesses within our internal control over financial reporting and operations, our indebtedness, liquidity, and other factors discussed in our public filings, including the risk factors included in the Company’s most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K, Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, and the Company’s other periodic reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Except as required by applicable law, including the securities laws of the United States and the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission, the Company is under no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement after the date of this release whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise.

    CONTACTS

    Investors:
    tbch@icrinc.com

    Public Relations & Media:
    MacLean Marshall
    Sr. Director, Global Communications
    Turtle Beach Corporation
    (858) 914-5093
    maclean.marshall@turtlebeach.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: XAI Octagon Floating Rate & Alternative Income Trust Declares its Monthly Common Shares Distribution of $0.070 per Share

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CHICAGO, June 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — XAI Octagon Floating Rate & Alternative Income Trust (the “Trust”) has declared its regular monthly distribution of $0.070 per share on the Trust’s common shares (NYSE: XFLT), payable on July 1, 2025, to common shareholders of record as of June 16, 2025, as noted below. The amount of the distribution represents a 9.09% decrease from the previous month’s distribution amount of $0.077 per share.

    The Trust’s investment objective is to seek attractive total return with an emphasis on income generation across multiple stages of the credit cycle. Due to recent market volatility, the loan and CLO asset classes have experienced drastic interest rate spread compression, which has negatively impacted asset class yields. In the most recent quarter, market conditions were marked by heightened volatility stemming from tariff developments and ongoing trade tensions. With the new distribution amount of $0.070 per share, the Trust’s annualized distribution rate on market price was 14.51% and the annualized distribution rate on NAV is 13.86% as of market close on May 30, 2025.

    The following dates apply to the declaration:

         
    Ex-Dividend Date   June 16, 2025
       
    Record Date   June 16, 2025
       
    Payable Date   July 1, 2025
       
    Amount   $0.070 per common share
       
    Change from Previous Month   9.09% decrease
         

    Common share distributions may be paid from net investment income (regular interest and dividends), capital gains and/or a return of capital. The specific tax characteristics of the distributions will be reported to the Trust’s common shareholders on Form 1099 after the end of the 2025 calendar year. Shareholders should not assume that the source of a distribution from the Trust is net income or profit. For further information regarding the Trust’s distributions, please visit www.xainvestments.com.

    XFLT Q1 Webinar

    The Trust plans to host its Quarterly Webinar on June 4, 2025, at 12:00 pm (Eastern Time). Kevin Davis, Managing Director at XA Investments will moderate the Q&A style webinar with Kimberly Flynn, President at XA Investments, and Lauren Law, Senior Portfolio Manager at Octagon Credit Investors.

    TO JOIN VIA WEB: Please go to the Knowledge Bank section of xainvestments.com or click here to find the online registration link.

    TO USE YOUR TELEPHONE: After joining via web, if you prefer to use your phone for audio, you must select that option and call in using a number below, based on your current location.

    Dial: (312) 626-6799 or (646) 558-8656 or (267) 831-0333 or (213) 338-8477 or (720) 928-9299

    Webinar ID: 817 1030 7383

    REPLAY: A replay of the webinar will be available in the Knowledge Bank section of xainvestments.com.

    The Trust’s net investment income and capital gain can vary significantly over time; however, the Trust seeks to maintain more stable common share monthly distributions over time. The Trust’s investments in CLOs are subject to complex tax rules and the calculation of taxable income attributed to an investment in CLO subordinated notes can be dramatically different from the calculation of income for financial reporting purposes under accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“U.S. GAAP”), and, as a result, there may be significant differences between the Trust’s GAAP income and its taxable income. The Trust’s final taxable income for the current fiscal year will not be known until the Trust’s tax returns are filed.

    As a registered investment company, the Trust is subject to a 4% excise tax that is imposed if the Trust does not distribute to common shareholders by the end of any calendar year at least the sum of (i) 98% of its ordinary income (not taking into account any capital gain or loss) for the calendar year and (ii) 98.2% of its capital gain in excess of its capital loss (adjusted for certain ordinary losses) for a one-year period generally ending on October 31 of the calendar year (unless an election is made to use the Trust’s fiscal year). In certain circumstances, the Trust may elect to retain income or capital gain to the extent that the Board of Trustees, in consultation with Trust management, determines it to be in the interest of shareholders to do so.

    The common share distributions paid by the Trust for any particular period may be more than the amount of net investment income from that period. As a result, all or a portion of a distribution may be a return of capital, which is in effect a partial return of the amount a common shareholder invested in the Trust, up to the amount of the common shareholder’s tax basis in their common shares, which would reduce such tax basis. Although a return of capital may not be taxable, it will generally increase the common shareholder’s potential gain, or reduce the common shareholder’s potential loss, on any subsequent sale or other disposition of common shares.

    The distribution shall be paid on the Payment Date unless the payment of such distribution is deferred by the Board of Trustees upon a determination that such deferral is required in order to comply with applicable law to ensure that the Trust remains solvent and able to pay its debts as they become due and continue as a going concern, or to comply with the applicable terms or financial covenants of the Trust’s senior securities.

    Future common share distributions will be made if and when declared by the Trust’s Board of Trustees, based on a consideration of a number of factors, including the Trust’s continued compliance with terms and financial covenants of its senior securities, the Trust’s net investment income, financial performance and available cash. There can be no assurance that the amount or timing of common share distributions in the future will be equal or similar to that described herein or that the Board of Trustees will not decide to suspend or discontinue the payment of common share distributions in the future.

    The investment objective of the Trust is to seek attractive total return with an emphasis on income generation across multiple stages of the credit cycle. The Trust seeks to achieve its investment objective by investing in a dynamically managed portfolio of opportunities primarily within the private credit markets. Under normal market conditions, the Trust will invest at least 80% of its Managed Assets in floating rate credit instruments and other structured credit investments. There can be no assurance that the Trust will achieve its investment objective.

    The Trust’s common shares are traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “XFLT,” and the Trust’s 6.50% Series 2026 Term Preferred Shares are traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “XFLTPRA”.

    About XA Investments

    XA Investments LLC (“XAI”) serves as the Trust’s investment adviser. XAI is a Chicago-based firm founded by XMS Capital Partners in 2016. XAI serves as the investment adviser for two listed closed-end funds and an interval closed-end fund. The listed closed-end funds, the XAI Octagon Floating Rate & Alternative Income Trust and XAI Madison Equity Premium Income Fund both trade on the New York Stock Exchange and the interval fund, Octagon XAI CLO Income Fund is available via direct subscription and through select broker/dealers and wealth management platforms.

    In addition to investment advisory services, the firm also provides investment fund structuring and consulting services focused on registered closed-end funds to meet institutional client needs. XAI offers custom product build and consulting services, including development and market research, sales, marketing, fund management.

    XAI believes that the investing public can benefit from new vehicles to access a broad range of alternative investment strategies and managers. XAI provides individual investors with access to institutional-caliber alternative managers. For more information, please visit www.xainvestments.com.

    About XMS Capital Partners
    XMS Capital Partners, LLC, established in 2006, is a global, independent, financial services firm providing M&A, corporate advisory and asset management services to clients. It has offices in Chicago, Boston and London. For more information, please visit www.xmscapital.com.

    About Octagon Credit Investors
    Octagon Credit Investors, LLC (“Octagon”) serves as the Trust’s investment sub-adviser. Octagon is a 25+ year old, $32.1B below-investment grade corporate credit investment adviser focused on leveraged loan, high yield bond and structured credit (CLO debt and equity) investments. Through fundamental credit analysis and active portfolio management, Octagon’s investment team identifies attractive relative value opportunities across below-investment grade asset classes, sectors and issuers. Octagon’s investment philosophy and methodology encourage and rely upon dynamic internal communication to manage portfolio risk. Over its history, the firm has applied a disciplined, repeatable and scalable approach in its effort to generate attractive risk-adjusted returns for its investors. For more information, please visit www.octagoncredit.com.

    XAI does not provide tax advice; please consult a professional tax advisor regarding your specific tax situation. Income may be subject to state and local taxes, as well as the federal alternative minimum tax.

    Investors should consider the investment objectives and policies, risk considerations, charges and expenses of the Trust carefully before investing. For more information on the Trust, please visit the Trust’s webpage at www.xainvestments.com.

    This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation to buy, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such offer or solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the laws of such state or jurisdiction.

    NOT FDIC INSURED        NO BANK GUARANTEE    MAY LOSE VALUE
             

    Paralel Distributors, LLC – Distributor

    Media Contact:

    Kimberly Flynn, President
    XA Investments LLC
    Phone: 888-903-3358
    Email: KFlynn@XAInvestments.com
    www.xainvestments.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Dime Announces Receipt of Federal Reserve and NYDFS Approvals for Lakewood, NJ Branch Location

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HAUPPAUGE, N.Y., June 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Dime Community Bancshares, Inc. (NASDAQ: DCOM) (the “Company” or “Dime”), the parent company of Dime Community Bank (the “Bank”), announced it has received approvals from the Federal Reserve Bank of New York and the New York State Department of Financial Services to open a branch location in Lakewood, New Jersey.

    The branch will be located at 500 Boulevard of the Americas, Lakewood, New Jersey, pending approval from the New Jersey Department of Banking and Insurance. As previously announced, construction of the branch is expected to start in the second half of 2025, with the branch opening planned for early 2026.

    ABOUT DIME COMMUNITY BANCSHARES, INC.

    Dime Community Bancshares, Inc. is the holding company for Dime Community Bank, a New York State-chartered trust company with over $14 billion in assets and the number one deposit market share among community banks on Greater Long Island (1).

    Dime Community Bancshares, Inc.
    Investor Relations Contact:
    Avinash Reddy
    Senior Executive Vice President – Chief Financial Officer
    Phone: 718-782-6200; Ext. 5909
    Email: avinash.reddy@dime.com

    ¹ Aggregate deposit market share for Kings, Queens, Nassau & Suffolk counties for community banks with less than $20 billion in assets.

    FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
    Statements contained in this news release that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements as that term is defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties which could cause actual results to differ materially from those currently anticipated.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Internet-enabled orgasms: How teledildonics are changing the way we have sex

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Madison E. Williams, PhD Student, Experimental Psychology, University of New Brunswick

    Sex toys are no longer limited to the analogue dildos and masturbators of the past. Today, they have become increasingly sophisticated.
     (Shutterstock)

    Sex toys are fairly common in people’s sex lives, and broadly accessible both online and in brick-and-mortar stores. In the United States, more than 40 per cent of heterosexual women and men have incorporated vibrators into the bedroom.

    More than three-quarters of Canadians have used a sex toy with a partner at least once, including vibrators, anal toys and penile masturbators. Reported rates also vary widely across western countries — for instance, 16 per cent of Australians say they’ve used sex toys while up to 52 per cent of people in Germany say they have.

    However, sex toys are no longer limited to the analogue dildos and masturbators of the past. Today, they have become increasingly sophisticated.

    Internet-connected toys, known as teledildonics, are novel devices designed to enhance sexual experiences by mimicking elements of real human intimacy — such as genital touch, body warmth, synchronized movements or orgasmic sensations — without a partner being physically present.

    They can be synced with online pornography, integrated with virtual reality or even controlled remotely by a partner, allowing for intimacy at a distance.

    One question remains as this burgeoning technology becomes integrated in individuals’ lives: Can teledildonics promote sexual well-being?

    Why people use sex toys

    Research reveals that using sex toys, whether on their own or with a partner, is linked with greater sexual satisfaction. One study also found that using a vaginal vibrator helped women experience stronger arousal, better lubrication and reach orgasm more easily.

    People use sex toys for all sorts of reasons. In one Canadian study, the most popular reason people used sex toys was to spice up their sex life with a sexual partner.

    Other commonly reported motivations included wanting to boost sexual arousal during masturbation and partnered sex, and to reach orgasm more easily. For a smaller proportion, sex toys also served to help them relax or release tension.

    What about teledildonics?

    In one survey, nine per cent of U.S. adults reported they’ve used teledildonics, with more men (15 per cent) reporting usage than women (five per cent) and gender-diverse individuals (13 per cent).

    Although more and more people are turning to teledildonic devices, we still know relatively little about why they use them or how they relate to well-being — especially compared to the growing body of research on traditional, non-connected sex toys.

    Our research team at the Université du Québec à Montréal surveyed 617 men between the ages of 19 and 75 years old. They were customers of the teledildonics company, Kiiroo, which specializes in interactive, app-connected sex toys, particularly for men, such as masturbatory sleeves and strokers. Kiiroo’s marketing team helped recruit participants for the survey.

    This industry collaboration allowed us to explore, for the first time, who uses these devices, why they use them, and how certain usage patterns like using it alone or with a partner may support greater sexual well-being.

    More than three-quarters of Canadians have used a sex toy with a partner at least once, including vibrators, anal toys and penile masturbators.
    (Interactive Life Forms/Wikimedia), CC BY-SA

    Most of our participants resided in North America (74 per cent) and Europe (22 per cent), while a minority were in Australia, Asia and Central America (three per cent combined). They primarily identified as white (75 per cent), Asian (17 per cent), Latin American (10 per cent) and Black (four per cent).

    In our study, nearly all the men used their teledildonic devices alone, but 21 per cent of them also reported incorporating them into partnered sex.

    We found that people who use teledildonics with a partner tend to own a greater number of these devices compared to those who use them solely for solo play.

    Partnered use was also associated with a higher number of previous sexual partners, which may suggest that greater sexual experience increases one’s comfort in sharing sex toy use with a partner.

    Finally, partnered use was associated with greater sexual well-being in men. Those who used their toys with a partner reported having greater sexual desire, more ease in reaching orgasm with a partner and increased confidence as a sexual partner.

    In other words, men who use their teledildonics with a partner may experience greater sexual well-being than men who only use their devices alone.

    Research reveals that using sex toys, whether on their own or with a partner, is linked with greater sexual satisfaction.
    (Shutterstock)

    Why do men use teledildonics?

    Our study was the first to uncover the motivations behind men’s teledildonic sex toy use.

    For 57 per cent of the men in our study, teledildonics were used primarily to relax or relieve tension. Just over half also reported using teledildonics to fantasize about sexual activities that are not possible in real life and to increase sexual arousal during masturbation.

    More than one third of participants (38 per cent) shared that their teledildonics usage was specifically motivated by the ability to connect their toys with other technologies (like virtual reality headsets or online pornography).

    Other motivations for using teledildonics appear to mirror many of those that drive traditional sex toy use, notably relaxation and tension relief and to increase arousal.

    What’s next for teledildonics?

    Taken together, these findings offer promising evidence that using teledildonics, particularly with a partner, can have sexual benefits. They also invite us to reflect on how such technologies could improve the sex lives of people facing challenges such as sexual dysfunction, physical disabilities or a lack of access to sexual partners — although further research is needed to understand how teledildonics can meet their specific needs.

    In addition, this growing industry raises important questions around data security, ethics and digital consent, including how to address concerns about the devices being hacked or remotely controlled without permission.

    Ensuring that these technologies are developed with privacy and safety in mind is essential to maximizing their impact as tools that support sexual well-being in a rapidly changing sexual landscape.

    As teledildonics and other sex technologies become more sophisticated, they will continue to transform the future of sex, intimacy and well-being.

    Madison E. Williams consults for Kiiroo.

    David Lafortune received funding from Kiiroo to conduct this study.

    Éliane Dussault consults for Kiiroo.

    – ref. Internet-enabled orgasms: How teledildonics are changing the way we have sex – https://theconversation.com/internet-enabled-orgasms-how-teledildonics-are-changing-the-way-we-have-sex-252856

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Province strengthens community-based primary-care services

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    The Province is launching an assessment of its primary-care system to ensure it is effectively supporting community-based solutions, including in rural areas, and providing everyone in B.C. with timely access to primary care.

    “We are working to ensure that everyone has access to primary care when and where they need it,” said Josie Osborne, Minister of Health. “With a close connection and deep understanding of the people they serve, community health centres are a critical part of this by providing team-based, high-quality services. Collaboration is key to making progress, and I look forward to finding ways to further strengthen community-based primary care.”

    Under the Cooperation and Responsible Government Accord 2025, the B.C. government and BC Green caucus committed to:

    • assessing all elements of B.C.’s primary care system;
    • providing $15 million to assist the creation of new or support for existing community health centres (CHC); and
    • establishing targets for the opening of new publicly funded CHCs.

    The assessment is underway, led by a working group co-ordinated by the Ministry of Health in collaboration with the Green caucus. The working group will engage with key stakeholders to receive input and feedback during the assessment.

    “This assessment is a necessary step, and we expect it will lead to real action on the deep challenges in B.C.’s health-care systems,” said Jeremy Valeriote, MLA for West Vancouver-Sea to Sky, and interim leader, BC Greens. “Community health centres are crucial for delivering team-based, person-centred care for the full spectrum of needs, but access is a major barrier. Fixing primary-health care is essential to improving health outcomes in this province.”

    An initial report will be completed and released publicly in summer 2025. It will set priorities for the use of $15 million to support existing and new CHCs, and also consider options for funding models.

    A final report will be completed and released publicly in fall 2025. It will address the barriers that exist for health professionals and communities that want to establish CHCs and establish data-driven processes for identifying priority communities for CHC expansion in 2026.

    CHCs are community-governed, not-for-profit organizations with services tailored to meet the unique health needs of the community they serve. This includes:

    • providing access to complex medical and social services, such as for people with chronic illnesses and for underserved populations, such as immigrants and members of the LGBTQ2S+ community;
    • integrating team-based programs and services in primary care, health promotion and community well-being; and
    • addressing the social determinants of health.

    Primary care is a foundational element of health care and is often the first point of contact between a person and B.C.’s health-care system. Generally delivered by a family doctor or nurse practitioner, primary care is focused on the overall well-being of patients throughout their lifespan. Primary-care providers develop strong, long-term relationships with patients and offer a range of care, including educating and promoting healthy lifestyle choices, managing chronic conditions, and diagnosing and treating illness and injury.

    In 2018, the Province launched its primary-care strategy to increase patient attachment and access to quality, comprehensive, team-based, culturally safe and person-centred primary-care services throughout the province.

    Quick Facts:

    • Since the launch of its primary-care strategy in 2018, the Province has provided support for:
      • more than 90 primary-care networks to connect health-care teams with community organizations that work together to streamline and co-ordinate patient services and address the unique primary-care needs of each community;
      • 50 urgent and primary care centres, with 41 already open and delivering services;
      • 15 community health centres, with 12 already open and delivering services; and
      • 15 First Nations primary-care centres in partnership with the First Nations Health Authority.
    • Since 2018, more than 675,000 people have been connected to a primary-care provider, either a family doctor or nurse practitioner.

    Learn More:

    To learn more about the agreement, visit: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2024PREM0075-001656

    To read the terms of reference for the primary-care assessment, visit: https://news.gov.bc.ca/files/Terms_Of_Reference.pdf

    To learn more about B.C.’s primary-care strategy, visit: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/health/accessing-health-care/bcs-primary-care-system

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI: Eos Energy Enterprises Announces Participation in Upcoming Investor Event

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    EDISON, N.J., June 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Eos Energy Enterprises, Inc. (NASDAQ: EOSE) (“Eos” or the “Company”), America’s leading innovator in designing, manufacturing, and providing zinc-based long duration energy storage systems sourced and manufactured in the United States, today announced its participation in an upcoming investor event.

    Stifel 2025 Boston Cross Sector 1×1 Conference

    Chief Executive Officer Joe Mastrangelo will attend the Stifel 2025 Boston Cross Sector 1×1 Conference on Tuesday, June 3, 2025. The event will include 1×1 investor meetings.

    Investors seeking to meet with management should reach out directly to their representatives at Stifel.

    About Eos

    Eos Energy Enterprises, Inc. is accelerating the shift to American energy independence with positively ingenious solutions that transform how the world stores power. Our breakthrough Znyth™ aqueous zinc battery was designed to overcome the limitations of conventional lithium-ion technology. It is safe, scalable, efficient, sustainable, manufactured in the U.S., and the core of our innovative systems that today provides utility, industrial, and commercial customers with a proven, reliable energy storage alternative for 3 to 12-hour applications. Eos was founded in 2008 and is headquartered in Edison, New Jersey. For more information about Eos (NASDAQ: EOSE), visit eose.com.

           
                
                     

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: ILUS Provides Update on Shareholder Meeting

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, NY, June 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Ilustrato Pictures International Inc. (OTC: ILUS) (“ILUS” or the “Company”), a mergers and acquisitions company focused on acquiring and scaling businesses in the public safety and industrial sectors, is pleased to provide shareholders with further details regarding its previously announced Annual Shareholder Meeting scheduled for Friday, June 20, 2025.

    The meeting will include updates from ILUS leadership on key business developments, strategic plans, and progress on current initiatives. Shareholders will have the opportunity to engage directly with the Company during a dedicated Q&A session.

    Meeting Details
    Date: Friday, June 20, 2025
    Time: 9:30 AM EDT
    Location: Trump International Beach Resort,18001 Collins Avenue, Sunny Isles Beach, FL 33160, United States

    To participate in the meeting, shareholders are required to register in advance using ILUS’ official event portal:
    https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ilus-shareholder-meeting-tickets-1353057223579

    Shareholders of record will be eligible to attend. Upon registration, participants will receive further instructions and access credentials for the event. Shareholders may also submit questions in advance through the portal.

    Additional meeting materials, including the formal notice and agenda, will be distributed in line with Regulation requirements and made available at https://ilus-group.com.

    For further information on ILUS, please see its communication channels:
    Website: https://ilus-group.com
    X: @ILUS_INTL
    Email: IR@Ilus-Group.com
    Source: ILUS

    Forward-Looking Statement

    Certain information set forth in this press release contains “forward-looking information”, including “future-oriented financial information” and “financial outlook”, under applicable securities laws (collectively referred to herein as forward-looking statements). Except for statements of historical fact, the information contained herein constitutes forward-looking statements and includes, but is not limited to, the (i) projected financial performance of the Company; (ii) completion of, and the use of proceeds from, the sale of the shares being offered hereunder; (iii) the expected development of the Company’s business, projects, and joint ventures; (iv) execution of the Company’s vision and growth strategy, including with respect to future M&A activity and global growth; (v) sources and availability of third-party financing for the Company’s projects; (vi) completion of the Company’s projects that are currently underway, in development or otherwise under consideration; (vii) renewal of the Company’s current customer, supplier and other material agreements; and (viii) future liquidity, working capital, and capital requirements. Forward-looking statements are provided to allow potential investors the opportunity to understand management’s beliefs and opinions in respect of the future so that they may use such beliefs and opinions as one factor in evaluating an investment. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and undue reliance should not be placed on them. Such forward-looking statements necessarily involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties, which may cause actual performance and financial results in future periods to differ materially from any projections of future performance or results expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Although forward-looking statements contained in this presentation are based upon what management of the Company believes are reasonable assumptions, there can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. The Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements if circumstances or management’s estimates or opinions should change except as required by applicable securities laws. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) has provided guidance to issuers regarding the use of social media to disclose material nonpublic information. In this regard, investors and others should note that we announce material financial information via official Press Releases, in addition to SEC filings, press releases, Questions & Answers sessions, public conference calls, and webcasts also may take time from time to time. We use these channels as well as social media to communicate with the public about our company, our services, and other issues. It is possible that the information we post on social media could be deemed to be material information. Therefore, considering the SEC’s guidance, we encourage investors, the media, and others interested in our company to review the information we post on the following social & media channels: Website: https://ilus-group.com X: @ILUS_INTL

    Contact:
    IR@Ilus-group.com
    (917) 522-3202

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Capital City Bank Group Announces Leadership Transition

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TALLAHASSEE, Fla., June 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The board of directors of Capital City Bank Group (NASDAQ: CCBG) announced today that Bethany Corum has been named president of Capital City Bank, effective as of July 1, 2025. This historic appointment takes place during the Bank’s landmark 130th anniversary year and marks a significant milestone as Corum becomes the first female president in the history of the Bank. She assumes this role with extensive experience and a deep commitment to championing the mission and continued success of Capital City Bank.

    At the same time, Tom Barron, who has dedicated 51 years to Capital City Bank, including the last 30 as president, has been appointed president of Capital City Bank Group and chairman of the Capital City Bank Board of Directors, effective as of July 1, 2025. In this new capacity, he will continue to be engaged in the management of the Bank and guide the Company’s growth.

    Additionally, William G. Smith Jr. will continue as Capital City Bank Group chairman and CEO, overseeing corporate strategy and governance while guiding the long-term financial performance of the Company.

    These changes reflect a strategic effort to diversify the executive ranks and bolster management as the Company enters its next phase of growth.

    Corum has served as chief operating officer since 2015, with the primary responsibilities of overseeing the commercial lending, retail market management, wealth management, information technology, loan and deposit operations, facilities management and information security departments, as well as the disaster recovery, human resources and talent development functions. After establishing her financial industry roots as an executive with the Florida Bankers Association, Corum came to Capital City Bank in 2006 and served a decade as chief people officer and president of Capital City Services Company before being promoted to chief operating officer.

    “For almost two decades, I have had the privilege of witnessing Beth’s exceptional leadership and commitment to the success of our Company,” said Capital City Bank Group Chairman, President and CEO William G. Smith Jr. “She has consistently driven growth, innovation and operational efficiency while managing a vast array of our business functions. Her strategic vision and dedication to fostering a positive workplace culture have earned us recognition year after year among the best employers in the nation. I firmly believe in Beth’s ability to guide us through the next phase of our journey with continued excellence.”

    Barron has played an integral role in helping guide the Company through industry shifts and an evolving banking landscape. Barron was among the original architects of Capital City Bank Group, which was formed as a multi-bank holding company in 1984, and a principal player in subsequently consolidating the seven-member family of brands under the single name of Capital City Bank in 1995.

    “Working shoulder-to-shoulder with Tom for the last 50 years has been one of the greatest honors of my career,” said Smith. “His 51 years of service have not only helped to shape our Company legacy but also set a high standard for leadership in our industry, making him a clear choice for these vital roles. His exceptional expertise, strategic vision and consistent acumen have guided us through transformative times. I am confident that his deep knowledge of our past and insightful perspective on our future will continue to lead us to new heights.”

    Corum earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Tennessee at Martin and her master’s degree from Florida State University. She is a dedicated community advocate and currently serves as treasurer of Tallahassee Memorial Healthcare board of directors, chairman of the United Way of the Big Bend and chair-elect of the Community Foundation of North Florida. She has formerly served as chair of the Children’s Home Society of North Florida, trustee for the Florida Bankers Educational Foundation and as past chair of the Greater Tallahassee Chamber of Commerce. Additionally, Corum is a Leadership Tallahassee and Leadership Florida graduate. 

    Barron holds an MBA from Florida State University and served as president of the Community Bankers of Florida in 1989. He currently serves on the boards of Capital Health Plan and Tall Timbers. A former chair of the Southeastern Community Blood Center, Greater Tallahassee Chamber of Commerce, United Way of the Big Bend, Seminole Boosters and Hollins University, Barron has demonstrated community leadership and advocacy throughout his career.

    About Capital City Bank Group, Inc.
    Capital City Bank Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: CCBG) is one of the largest publicly traded financial holding companies headquartered in Florida and has approximately $4.5 billion in assets. We provide a full range of banking services, including traditional deposit and credit services, mortgage banking, asset management, trust, merchant services, bankcards, securities brokerage services and financial advisory services, including the sale of life insurance, risk management and asset protection services. Our bank subsidiary, Capital City Bank, was founded in 1895 and now has 62 banking offices and 105 ATMs/ITMs in Florida, Georgia and Alabama. For more information about Capital City Bank Group, Inc., www.ccbg.com. 

    For Information Contact:
    Brooke Hallock
    Hallock.Brooke@ccbg.com
    850.402.8525

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/6e7d733b-3458-481b-a2cc-a12b2c43f7dd

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/3c1f5a36-ff85-4e5d-9320-63493e95dd97

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/df11cf9b-ef6e-4de1-ad9e-630a5d824fbc

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Oxbridge / SurancePlus to Attend Money20/20 Europe in Amsterdam

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    GRAND CAYMAN, Cayman Islands, June 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Oxbridge Re Holdings Limited (Nasdaq: OXBR) (“Oxbridge Re”), together with its subsidiary SurancePlus, is engaged in the tokenization of Real-World Assets (“RWAs”), initially with tokenized reinsurance securities and in providing reinsurance solutions to property and casualty insurers in the Gulf Coast region of the United States. The company today announced its participation in Money20/20 Europe 2025, taking place June 3–5, 2025, in Amsterdam, Netherlands.

    Money20/20 Europe 2025

    Recognized as one of the world’s most important gatherings in blockchain, digital assets, and Web3 innovation, Money20/20 Europe brings together leading builders, capital allocators, protocol teams, tokenization platforms, and infrastructure providers to define the future of decentralized finance.

    With over 2,000 participating companies, 370+ sponsors, and 340+ expert speakers, the event offers a high-density environment for strategic meetings, deal-making, and ecosystem advancement.

    While at Money20/20 Europe, Oxbridge and SurancePlus will be advancing conversations with both long-standing partners and new ecosystem players – supporting our long-term vision of democratizing access to high-yield institutional-grade reinsurance investment opportunities.

    Oxbridge / SurancePlus 2025 Offering:

    Learn more at SurancePlus.com/invest

    Jay Madhu, CEO of Oxbridge, commented, “Money20/20 Europe brings together many of the leaders shaping the future of digital finance. The conference offers an ideal setting to advance conversations with partners and ecosystem players as we pursue our mission to democratize access to high-yield, institutional-grade reinsurance investments.”

    Meet Oxbridge / SurancePlus at Money20/20 Europe – Amsterdam

    Investors and potential partners interested in Oxbridge and SurancePlus’ tokenized reinsurance offerings are encouraged to connect with the team during the event. Contact details are provided below.

    Disclaimer: This press release does not constitute an offer to sell nor a solicitation of an offer to buy the EtaCat Re or ZetaCat Re tokenized reinsurance securities (the “Securities”). The Securities are not required to be, and have not been, registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended, in reliance on the exemptions provided by Regulation S and SEC Rule 506(c) thereunder. Offers and sales of the Securities are made only by, and pursuant to, the terms set forth in the Confidential Private Placement Memorandum relating to the Securities. The offering of the Securities is not being made to persons in any jurisdiction in which the making or acceptance thereof would not be in compliance with the securities, blue sky, or other laws of such jurisdiction.

    About Oxbridge Re Holdings Limited 

    Oxbridge Re Holdings Limited (NASDAQ: OXBR, OXBRW) (“Oxbridge”) is headquartered in the Cayman Islands. The company offers tokenized Real-World Assets (“RWAs”) as tokenized reinsurance securities and reinsurance business solutions to property and casualty insurers, through its wholly owned subsidiaries SurancePlus Inc., Oxbridge Re NS, and Oxbridge Reinsurance Limited.

    Insurance businesses in the Gulf Coast region of the United States purchase property and casualty reinsurance through our licensed reinsurers Oxbridge Reinsurance Limited and Oxbridge Re NS.

    Our Web3-focused subsidiary, SurancePlus Inc. (“SurancePlus”), has developed the first “on-chain” reinsurance RWA of its kind to be sponsored by a subsidiary of a publicly traded company. By digitizing interests in reinsurance contracts as on-chain RWAs, SurancePlus has democratized the availability of reinsurance as an alternative investment to both U.S. and non-U.S. investors. 

    Company Contact:
    Oxbridge Re Holdings Limited
    Jay Madhu, CEO
    +1 345-749-7570
    jmadhu@oxbridgere.com

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release may contain forward-looking statements made pursuant to the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Words such as “anticipate,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “plan,” “project” and other similar words and expressions are intended to signify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future results and conditions but rather are subject to various risks and uncertainties. A detailed discussion of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results and events to differ materially from such forward-looking statements is included in the section entitled “Risk Factors” contained in our Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) on 26th March 2024. The occurrence of any of these risks and uncertainties could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, financial condition and results of operations. Any forward-looking statements made in this press release speak only as of the date of this press release and, except as required by law, the Company undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statement contained in this press release, even if the Company’s expectations or any related events, conditions or circumstances change.

    The MIL Network –