NewzIntel.com

Category: CTF

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s manned deep-sea submersible Jiaolong arrives in Hong Kong for 1st time

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    HONG KONG, Sept. 24 — China’s research vessel Deep Sea No. 1, carrying manned submersible Jiaolong, received a warm welcome Tuesday in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), the first time they visited the city.

    The vessel is on a home-bound voyage after completing a scientific mission in the Western Pacific Ocean. During their two-day stay in Hong Kong, scientists on board will give lectures to Hong Kong students and hold a number of international seminars to share the results of this scientific expedition.

    Warner Cheuk, deputy chief secretary for administration of the HKSAR government, said that the visits ahead of the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China fully demonstrated the central government’s care and support for Hong Kong’s marine scientific research development and ecological conservation.

    It is hoped that this event will inspire more young people in Hong Kong to engage in deep-sea research and make planet Earth a better place to live in, he said.

    Wu Changbin, director of China Ocean Mineral Resources R&D Association, congratulated the successful completion of the Western Pacific international voyage scientific expedition, saying that this voyage not only enhanced China’s scientific understanding of deep-sea biodiversity and ecosystems but also contributed important scientific data to global marine scientific research.

    The scientific expedition team of Chinese and foreign scientists set sail on Aug. 10 from Qingdao, east China’s Shandong Province, and made a total of 18 dives in the Western Pacific. It was the first time that foreign scientists have carried out deep-sea scientific research on Jiaolong.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China launches initiative to tackle obesity surge

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    BEIJING, Sept. 24 — China has improved its obesity treatment guidelines for private medical institutions as soaring obesity rates threaten the health of people of all ages.

    According to a 2020 report from the National Health Commission (NHC), 34.3 percent of the country’s adults were overweight and 16.4 percent were obese. Research predicts that overweight and obesity rates among Chinese adults could reach 65.3 percent by 2030.

    Chinese minors are also facing significant weight challenges. Currently, about 19 percent of people aged 6 to 17 and 10.4 percent of children under 6 are overweight or obese.

    As treatment options for obesity grow more diverse, more and more patients are turning to health care providers for professional treatment plans. Medication, surgical intervention and lifestyle changes are some of these options.

    A new initiative has seen the establishment of a weight management center to offer expert guidance to private health care facilities that provide weight loss services, aiming to enhance their ability to diagnose and treat obesity.

    Obesity is regarded as a significant trigger for a variety of chronic diseases, including diabetes and cancer. It is a major obstacle to realizing China’s long-term health goals, such as raising the nation’s average life expectancy to 79 by 2030, as proposed in the country’s Outline of Healthy China 2030.

    To combat the rising obesity rates, China has introduced a series of initiatives aimed at raising public awareness of weight management and the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

    In February, the NHC released a set of dietary guidelines to offer advice on food choices and provide recipes tailored to various dietary habits across different regions of China.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Dodd Center to Host Bipartisan Conversation on Fostering Civic and Democratic Engagement

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    Members of the UConn community and the general public are invited to join in a bipartisan conversation about fostering civic and democratic engagement at The Dodd Center for Human Rights at UConn Storrs on Thursday, September 26, 2024, when Congress to Campus comes to UConn.

    The flagship program of the nonprofit organization FMC – a bipartisan, voluntary alliance of former U.S. Senators and Representatives who advocate for representative democracy at home and abroad – Congress to Campus offers a unique civic educational experience by engaging honest dialogue with bipartisan teams of former members of Congress, congressional staff, and American diplomats.

    “We know from our own work at UConn on programs like Democracy and Dialogues just how powerful it can be to engage in meaningful and civil discussion on the most critical issues we, as a society, are facing,” says James Waller, the inaugural Christopher J. Dodd Chair in Human Rights Practice at UConn and director of Dodd Human Rights Impact Programs, which is hosting the Congress to Campus event.

    “We hope that this event will showcase how civil discourse, and even disagreement, can be a productive and healthy part of our democracy,” Waller says.

    Congress to Campus sessions have been held on 183 campuses in 43 states and seven countries, reaching more than 57,000 students in the last 10 years alone.

    Loretta Sanchez (contributed photo)

    UConn’s Congress to Campus event will feature a discussion with the Honorable Loretta Sanchez (D-CA, 1997-2017), a former senior member of the Armed Services and Homeland Security Committees; and the Honorable Fred Upton (R-MI, 1987-2023), a former chairman of the Committee on Energy and Commerce and top Republican leader of the Subcommittee on Energy.

    Their discussion will be moderated by NBC Connecticut anchor and reporter Amber Diaz ’11 (CLAS), and UConn President Radenka Maric will deliver welcoming remarks

    While visiting UConn, Reps. Sanchez and Upton will also engage with members of the broader community in a series of workshops small group discussions, keynotes, and classroom visits on topics including civil discourse, messaging and disinformation, democracy and human rights, and participation and inclusion.

    The event is co-sponsored by UConn’s Gladstein Family Human Rights Institute, School of Public Policy, Department of Political Science, Undergraduate Student Government, Department of Residential Life, Community Outreach, Office of Outreach and Engagement, and the Nancy A. Humphreys Institute for Political Social Work.

    Fred Upton (contributed photo)

    It’s supported by Citizen Travelers, the nonpartisan civic engagement initiative of Travelers.

    “We’re so grateful for our many partners on this event, and we hope students as well as members of our UConn community and the greater public will join us for this important conversation,” says Waller.

    The Dodd Center is home to robust academic programs and innovative external engagement in human rights, including the Gladstein Family Human Rights Institute, its Dodd Human Rights Impact Programs, the University Archives and Special Collections, and the Center for Judaic and Contemporary Jewish Life.

    The outreach and engagement arm of human rights at UConn, Dodd Human Rights Impact works to develop and support programs and initiatives that seek to directly impact local and global communities by helping them meet their human rights challenges.



    Space is limited. Please click here to register for this event.

    For more information about Dodd Impact, visit humanrights.uconn.edu/dodd-impact-programs.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Public urged to stay vigilant against dengue fever and other mosquito-borne diseases during holidays

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Public urged to stay vigilant against dengue fever and other mosquito-borne diseases during holidays
    Public urged to stay vigilant against dengue fever and other mosquito-borne diseases during holidays
    ******************************************************************************************

         With the approach of the National Day holiday, the Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (September 24) appealed to members of the public who intend to travel to stay alert to the situation of mosquito-borne diseases in their destinations. In view of the recent increase in dengue fever (DF) activity in neighbouring areas, the CHP specifically reminded members of the public to adopt necessary anti-mosquito precautions to guard against the disease when travelling abroad.           From September 1 to yesterday (September 23), the CHP recorded 12 imported DF cases; the patients had been to Guangdong Province (4), India (3), Nepal (2), the Philippines (2) and Malaysia (1) during the incubation period. The CHP has been closely monitoring the latest DF situation in neighbouring and overseas areas. DF is endemic in many tropical and subtropical areas of the world. The latest surveillance data showed that there was a significant increase in DF cases noted in some places in Asia compared to the same period last year. According to information from the Singapore Ministry of Health, a total of 11 847 DF cases have been recorded from January to September 14 this year, which is higher when compared to 6 755 cases recorded in the same period in 2023. In addition, Malaysia has recorded 98 442 cases from January to September 7 this year, which was a 19.3 per cent increase compared to the same period in 2023.           According to the Health Commission of Guangdong Province, the number of DF cases recorded in Guangdong Province in the past three months has been increasing, with 233 and 1 220 cases in July and August 2024 respectively. Most of the cases were locally acquired infection. Information from the Guangdong Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention further showed that more than 1 400 DF local cases have been recorded in September (as of September 15), with the highest numbers of cases recorded in Foshan, Guangzhou and Zhongshan.           According to the World Health Organization, the global incidence of DF has markedly increased over the past two decades, posing a substantial public health challenge. In 2023, ongoing transmissions, combined with an unexpected spike in DF cases, had resulted in close to a historic high of over 6.5 million cases, and more than 7 300 dengue-related deaths reported in over 80 countries/territories. Since the beginning of 2024, the Americas, including Brazil, Argentina and Peru, have recorded over 11 million cases, a record number. Detailed information on the latest DF situation in Hong Kong, as well as neighbouring and overseas countries and areas, has been uploaded to the CHP website (www.chp.gov.hk/files/pdf/df_imported_cases_and_overseas_figures_eng.pdf).           A spokesman for the CHP urged members of the public to stay vigilant and adopt appropriate anti-mosquito measures during their travel to prevent DF, as well as other mosquito-borne diseases including Japanese encephalitis, zika virus infection, malaria, etc.           The CHP spokesman reiterated that members of the public should follow stringent anti-mosquito measures when travelling. When travelling to areas where vector-borne diseases are common, they may consider to arrange travel health consultation with a doctor at least six weeks before the journey for risk assessment during which the need for any vaccinations, chemoprophylaxis and vector preventive measures will be determined.           The following measures on mosquito control could reduce the chance of acquiring mosquito-borne disease during travel:

    Wear loose, light-coloured, long-sleeved tops and trousers;
    Use DEET-containing insect repellent on exposed parts of the body and clothing. For details about the use of insect repellents and the key points to be observed, please refer to ‘Tips for using insect repellents’; and
    When engaging in outdoor activities, avoid using fragrant cosmetics or skin care products, re-apply insect repellents according to instructions, and apply insect repellents after sunscreen if both are used.

         “Returned travellers should consult a doctor promptly if developing symptoms such as fever, respiratory symptoms, rash or painful swelling, and inform the doctor of their travel history for prompt diagnosis and treatment,” the spokesman added.     The CHP will continue to monitor the local and overseas situation of infectious diseases and provide the latest information to members of the public in a timely manner for a better understanding of the development of infectious diseases and preparation on precautionary works. For more information, please refer to the CHP website on GAS infection (www.chp.gov.hk/en/healthtopics/content/24/107780.html), DF (www.chp.gov.hk/en/healthtopics/content/24/19.html) and travel health service (www.travelhealth.gov.hk).

     
    Ends/Tuesday, September 24, 2024Issued at HKT 20:00

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: UK Lords committee calls for major overhaul of public inquiries

    Source: United Kingdom UK House of Lords (video statements)

    Overhaul inquiries to make them more efficient and effective, says House of Lords committee in new report.

    Public inquiries are set up to consider incidents of major public concern, such as the Grenfell Tower fire, the Post Office Horizon scandal and the Covid-19 pandemic.

    The Statutory Inquiries Committee has been considering the way these inquiries work. In its new report it found inefficiencies leading to delays and unnecessary costs. It calls on the government to conduct a major overhaul, including supporting an independent body responsible for following up on recommendations and ensuring that those accepted by the government are implemented.

    Find out more and read the report in full https://ukparliament.shorthandstories.com/statutory-inquiries-lords-report/index.html?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=statutory-inquiries-report&utm_content=lords-youtube-channel

    #HouseOfLords #PublicInquiries

    Catch-up on House of Lords business:

    Watch live events: https://parliamentlive.tv/Lords
    Read the latest news: https://www.parliament.uk/lords/

    Stay up to date with the House of Lords on social media:

    • Twitter: https://twitter.com/UKHouseofLords
    • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/UKHouseofLords/
    • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UKHouseofLords
    • Flickr: https://flickr.com/photos/ukhouseoflords/albums
    • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-house-of-lords
    • Threads: https://www.threads.net/@UKHouseOfLords

    #HouseOfLords #UKParliament

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qn3m8XQISfg

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Secretary-General of ASEAN opens the China-ASEAN Silk Road E-commerce Open Cooperation Promotion Event

    Source: ASEAN

    Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, today addressed the China-ASEAN Silk Road E-commerce Open Cooperation Promotion Event in Nanning, China. In his remarks, Dr. Kao emphasized three key areas where ASEAN and China can collaborate to unlock the full potential of e-commerce, including: building on existing digital transformation initiatives, maximizing the benefits of RCEP and ACFTA 3.0, and encouraging greater collaboration between major e-commerce platform to empower MSMEs.

    Download the full remarks here.

    The post Secretary-General of ASEAN opens the China-ASEAN Silk Road E-commerce Open Cooperation Promotion Event appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Germany: 3-months Bills of the European Stability Mechanism (ESM) – Auction result

    Source: Deutsche Bundesbank in English

    A digital euro would be a digital form of central bank money, specifically the euro. It could be used by the general public in much the same way as cash, only in virtual form. Alongside cash, the Eurosystem would thus supply households with an additional form of central bank money that can be used quickly, easily and securely.

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI German News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: A new season of paired exhibitions of “teachers and students” from the HSE School of Design is starting at the HSE ART GALLERY

    MIL OSI Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: State University Higher School of Economics – State University Higher School of Economics –

    The first project of the new season at the HSE ART GALLERY on Pionerka will continue the cycle of paired solo exhibitions of “teachers and students” of the HSE School of Design. This time, the main characters will be the head of the profile “Modern Painting” and its graduates – Vladimir Potapov and Sasha Podgorodskaya.

    The format of double solo exhibitions allows, firstly, to present a cross-section of the most significant works of young authors created during their years of study, and secondly, to compare the perspectives of students and their teachers.

    The title of Vladimir Potapov’s project, “The Duration of Decay,” refers to the artist’s personal exhibition, “The Moment of Decay,” in the Art Ru Agency space in 2011. For him, this was not only his first solo project in Moscow, but also his first attempt to go beyond the classical painting convention of “canvas and oil.” The exhibition allowed him to chart a path and showed prospects for finding practical answers to the question, “Is painting alive today?”

    The various stages of this journey are reflected in the exhibition at HSE ART GALLERY. The works on display belong to different series created by Potapov from 2012 to 2022. This range allows us to cover the author’s wide range of tools and radically different methods that have developed over the course of a decade.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    http://art.hse.ru/gallery/potavov-and-podgorodskaya?roistat_visit=1833079

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: The OSCE Mission to BiH Donates Specialized Equipment to Police K9 Units across the country

    Source: Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe – OSCE

    Headline: The OSCE Mission to BiH Donates Specialized Equipment to Police K9 Units across the country

    The OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina has donated specialized equipment to K9 police units. (OSCE) Photo details

    The OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina (Mission) has donated today specialized equipment to K9 police units across the country. The donation includes essential work gear and is part of the Mission’s project on Addressing Security and Safety Risks of Illegal Possession, Misuse, and Trafficking of Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW) and their Ammunition in Bosnia and Herzegovina. K9 units will receive muzzles, Kevlar suits, training sleeves, scent detection boxes, specialized SALW suitcases, alpinist equipment for dogs as well as a scent detection carousel, altogether worth approximately EUR 70,000
    The equipment will increase the weapons and explosives detection capacities of various agencies across BiH, including the BiH Border Police, the State Investigation and Protection Agency (SIPA), the Police of Brčko District BiH, the Republika Srpska Ministry of Interior, the Federal Police Administration, as well as the Ministries of Interior of the Tuzla Canton, Una-Sana Canton, and Zenica-Doboj Canton.
    “We are proud to be able to provide this gear to our partners across the country. It will significantly enhance the ability of police K9 units to detect concealed weapons, ammunition, and explosives,” said Ambassador Brian Aggeler, Head of the OSCE Mission to BiH. “This donation would not have been possible if it were not for our international partners and the support that they have provided to the Project. Through our joint efforts we can help BiH address serious security threats and increases safety for all citizens,” he added.
    Mlađen Božović, Chief of Cabinet of the Minister of Security, expressed his satisfaction with the ongoing efforts to equip police agencies, enhancing their operational capabilities in the fight against illegal arms trade. He stated that: “These criminal activities present an increasing security challenge for all countries. Police agencies must adapt by continually strengthening their capacity to detect illegal weapons and disrupt smuggling routes. Preventing the illegal arms trade remains a top priority for the Ministry of Security of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Our goal is to enhance security and prevent criminal activities related to weapons by curbing smuggling, both in the region and across the European Union member states.”
    The OSCE Mission to BiH remains committed to support authorities at all levels in mitigating security risks posed by the illegal possession, misuse, and trafficking of SALW and their ammunition. By this commitment, the Mission contributes to creating a safer and more secure environment for all citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
    The multi-year project: Addressing Security and Safety Risks of Illegal Possession, Misuse, and Trafficking of Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW) and their Ammunition in Bosnia and Herzegovina is implemented by the Mission thanks to the generous support provided by Austria, the Czech Republic, the European Union, Germany, France, Liechtenstein, Norway, Slovakia, Türkiye, and the United States.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: The United States is the world’s largest gasoline exporter

    Source: US Energy Information Administration

    In-brief analysis

    September 24, 2024

    Data source: U.S. Energy Information Administration, International Energy Agency, and Facts Global Energy

    The United States is the world’s largest exporter of motor gasoline (finished gasoline plus gasoline blending components), supplying over 16% of total global exports. U.S. motor gasoline exports in 2023 averaged 900,000 barrels per day (b/d), equivalent to about 10% of domestic consumption and enough to fill up the tanks of over 1.5 million SUVs per day, assuming an average tank size of 24 gallons. Other large gasoline exporters, including Singapore and the Netherlands, have never exceeded 700,000 b/d in gasoline exports. China and India have both added significant refining capacity since 2010 and have also increased gasoline exports.

    The United States was a net importer of motor gasoline for over a half century from 1961 to 2015. However, that trend changed during the past decade. The high volume of motor gasoline exports in recent years reflects longer trends in increasing U.S. exports of refined products in general, which set records in 2022 and 2023. The growth in U.S. refined product exports reflects several factors, including generally increasing refinery capacity from 2010 to 2023 and rising production from existing refineries through increased utilization. Much of the increase in refinery capacity has led to higher motor gasoline yields because of added light crude oil processing units that process increasing volumes of light tight oil produced by hydraulic fracturing, or fracking. Finally, although refinery capacity has grown, U.S. consumption of gasoline has not, making more gasoline available for export. Motor gasoline consumption in 2023 was flat compared with 2010 (and 0.4 million b/d less than its peak in 2018).

    Data source: U.S. Energy Information Administration

    Motor gasoline accounts for the third-largest share of U.S. refined product exports, behind propane and distillate fuel oil. Unlike propane, which is primarily exported to Asia, the majority of U.S. motor gasoline exports (over 500,000 b/d) go to Mexico, with the remainder going primarily to Central American and South American countries. Over 90% of U.S. gasoline exports came from the U.S. Gulf Coast (PADD 3).

    Principal contributor: Erik Kreil

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Germany: Executive Board agrees allocation of responsibilities

    Source: Deutsche Bundesbank in English

    With effect from Monday, 2 September 2024, Dr Sabine Mauderer was appointed Vice-President of the Deutsche Bundesbank. Furthermore, Lutz Lienenkämper and Michael Theurer joined the Bundesbank’s Executive Board. The responsibilities within the Executive Board have therefore been reallocated. The following reallocation of responsibilities comes into effect immediately.
    President Dr Joachim Nagel
    Economics
    Directorate for Board and International Affairs
    Communications
    Strategy and Innovation
    Legal Services
    Deputy President Dr Sabine Mauderer
    Markets
    Controlling, Accounting and Organisation
    Sustainability
    Burkhard Balz
    Cash management
    Digital Euro
    Payments and Settlement Systems
    Centre for International Central Bank Dialogue
    Lutz Lienenkämper
    Human Resources
    Internal audit
    Compliance
    Michael Theurer
    Banking and Financial Supervision
    Financial Stability
    N.N.
    Information Technology
    Data and Statistics
    Risk Control
    Research
    Responsibilities within the unallocated area have been temporarily assigned to Dr Joachim Nagel (Risk Control and Research Centre), Dr Sabine Mauderer (Data and Statistics) and Burkhard Balz (Information Technology).

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI German News –

  • MIL-OSI: Alliance Trust PLC – Net Asset Value

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ALLIANCE TRUST PLC
                     
    At the close of business on Monday 23 September 2024:

    The Company’s NAV per ordinary share, valued on a bid price basis with Debt at Par, was

    –       excluding income, 1251.6p
                     
    –       including income, 1251.3p
      
    The Company’s NAV per ordinary share, valued on a bid price basis with Debt at Fair Value, was

    –       excluding income, 1257.5p

    –       including income, 1257.2p

    For further information, please contact: –

     
    Juniper Partners Limited
    Tel. +44 (0)131 378 0500

    Notes

    1. Net Asset Values are calculated in accordance with published accounting policies and AIC guidelines.
    2. The fair value of the Company’s fixed loan notes is calculated by reference to a benchmark gilt.
    3. The dividend of 6.62p, due to be paid on 27 September 2024, has been deducted from each of the ‘including income’ figures cited above as from 29 August 2024, being the date upon which the Company’s shares went ex-dividend.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Harbour Grace — RCMP investigates collision on Veterans Memorial Highway, occupants of truck flee scene, one apprehended by Police Service Dog Marlow

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Harbour Grace RCMP is continuing to investigate a collision that occurred between two vehicles on the Veterans Memorial Highway on the evening of September 20, 2024.

    Shortly before 7:15 p.m. on Friday, police received a report of the collision that occurred on the highway near Tilton. A truck towing a utility trailer crossed over the centre line and collided with an oncoming SUV. Two of the three occupants of the truck fled the scene on foot. The third occupant was located with serious injuries at the scene. The two occupants of the SUV received non-life-threatening injuries. All three individuals were transported to Carbonear General Hospital.

    RCMP Police Service Dog (PSD) Marlow and her handler were engaged and, while approaching the scene of the collision, observed a man in a wooded area on the side of the highway. The man, who had serious injuries, was identified as one of the occupants from the truck and was arrested for leaving the scene of the collision. He was transported to the hospital for treatment of serious injuries and was released from police custody.

    The third occupant of the truck was tracked by PSD Marlow and her handler from the scene of the collision to a business in Spaniards Bay. Officers learned that the man had departed the business prior to their arrival. Efforts are underway for his arrest.

    A quantity of suspected cocaine, as well as numerous prescription pills, were located and seized from inside the truck.

    The investigation is continuing with charges pending.

    RCMP NL continues to fulfill its mandate to protect public safety, enforce the law, and ensure the delivery of priority policing services in Newfoundland and Labrador.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: St. George  — Two youths charged following assault with a weapon

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Two youths have been charged following an assault with a weapon in St. George.

    On September 16, 2024, at approximately 8:50 p.m., the St George RCMP Detachment responded to a report of an assault on Portage Street, in St. George. When police arrived on scene, they found a 43-year-old male victim. The man was transported to hospital with what were believed to be serious, but non-life-threatening injuries.

    Shortly after, police were able to identify two youths of interest. The first youth was arrested September 17, 2024, and the second youth was arrested on September 18, 2024.

    On September 19, 2024, the two youths appeared in Saint John Provincial Youth Court, and were charged with aggravated assault. They were both later released on conditions and are expected to return to court at a later date.

    Police are asking anyone who may have witnessed the assault to contact the St. George RCMP at 506-755-1130. Information can also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers by calling 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), by downloading the secure P3 Mobile App, or by Secure Web Tips at www.crimenb.ca.

    The investigation is ongoing.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Paycor Unveils Innovative Features to Redefine Time-Off Management

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CINCINNATI, Sept. 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Paycor HCM, Inc. (Nasdaq: PYCR) (“Paycor”), a leading provider of human capital management (HCM) software, today announced a suite of innovative features designed to transform time-off management for the modern workforce. These cutting-edge additions to Paycor’s HCM platform streamline time-off operations through automation, real-time visibility and proactive controls to drive efficiency and promote employee well-being.

    “It’s so important for workers to feel in control of their time, and Paycor’s new time-off features help leaders address this pain point,” said Ryan Bergstrom, Chief Product & Technology Officer at Paycor. “Our new experience helps workers unplug, empowers employees and leaders to take control of time-off management, reduces stress, and ensures smooth operations. We’re proud to offer flexible solutions that not only meet the needs of today’s workforce but also set a new standard for the future of work.”

    Key benefits include:

    Better Insights & Visibility to Help Leaders Make Decisions
    Paycor now offers seamless integration of time-off requests with scheduling, providing leaders with real-time visibility of these requests while building schedules. This feature allows for enhanced productivity and coordination through comprehensive visibility into time-off schedules for employees and leaders. Seamless integration across our ecosystem through APIs and data streams, including automatic syncing to cloud-based calendars, ensures accurate and up-to-date information.

    Faster Communication and Approvals
    Time Off Advisor provides employees with peak time visibility through blackout dates and balance forecasting, enabling better planning and communication with managers for time-off planning. Within this module, leaders can establish predefined criteria for automatically approving or denying time off requests. Additionally, managers can conveniently manage approvals on-the-go through preferred methods, such as the mobile app or email.

    Prevent Burn-out and Encourage Time Away
    Paycor Paths offers bite-sized training to empower leaders to recognize and prevent causes of burnout while easily accessing time-off balances and requests to identify potentially at-risk employees via the COR Leadership Dashboard.

    Paycor has received several accolades for these enhancements, including “Best Advance in Time” and “Best Advancement in Online Coaching Tools” from Brandon Hall Group and “Business Intelligence Solution” from Titan Business Awards.

    To learn more about how our time experience can streamline operations and provide flexibility to your workforce, visit Paycor Time & Attendance.

    About Paycor 
    Paycor’s human capital management (HCM) platform modernizes every aspect of people management, from recruiting, onboarding, and payroll to career development and retention, but what really sets us apart is our focus on leaders. For more than 30 years, we’ve been listening to and partnering with leaders, so we know what they need: a unified HR platform, easy integration with third party apps, powerful analytics, talent development tools, and configurable technology that supports specific industry needs. That’s why more than 30,000 customers trust Paycor to help them solve problems and achieve their goals. Learn more at paycor.com. 

    Media Relations:
    Carly Pennekamp
    513-954-7282
    PR@paycor.com

    Investor Relations:
    Rachel White
    513-954-7388
    IR@paycor.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: COMSTOCK RESOURCES, INC. ANNOUNCES THIRD QUARTER 2024 EARNINGS DATE AND CONFERENCE CALL INFORMATION

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    FRISCO, TX, Sept. 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Comstock Resources, Inc. (NYSE:CRK) plans to release its third quarter 2024 results on October 30, 2024 after the market closes and host its quarterly conference call at 10:00 a.m. CT on October 31, 2024 to discuss the third quarter results.  

    Parties interested in participating in the conference call telephonically will need to register at https://register.vevent.com/register/BI25940ff3de024e45b06512519e9e6a64. Upon registering to participate in the conference call, participants will receive the dial-in number and a personal PIN number to access the conference call. On the day of the call, please dial in at least 15 minutes in advance to ensure a timely connection to the call.

    ~~~

    The conference call will also be broadcast live in listen-only mode and can be accessed via the website URL: https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/27pqb8gi.

    ~~~

    A replay of the third quarter 2024 conference call will be available for twelve months beginning at 1:00 p.m. CT on October 31, 2024. The replay of the conference can be accessed using the webcast link: https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/27pqb8gi.

    About Comstock Resources:

    Comstock Resources is a leading independent natural gas producer with operations focused on the development of the Haynesville Shale in North Louisiana and East Texas.

    A slide show presentation on the financial results will be available on Comstock’s website at www.comstockresources.com. Click on “Quarterly Results” to view the slide show.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Tyton Partners’ Listening to Learners Data Assesses Correlation Between Student Safety and Re-enrollment Decisions at Institutions

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BOSTON, Sept. 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Today, Tyton Partners, a strategy consulting and investment banking firm focused on the education sector, unveiled Listening to Learners 2024: Stay Safe, Stay Informed: How Awareness of Support Services and Safety Relate to Re-enrollment, focusing on student learning outcomes. Following its widely cited debut last year, the second annual installment dives into the student perspective, linking it to institutional practices and technologies to spotlight impactful trends supporting student success in and outside the classroom.

    With data from 3,000 higher education administrators, frontline advising staff, and students, Listening to Learners 2024 offers an in-depth analysis across six pivotal areas: Safety, Learner Awareness, Basic Needs Costs, Generative AI, Stopped-out Learners, and the Equity-Excellence Imperative. These areas are critical in understanding and bridging gaps between what students need to succeed and institutional efforts.

    • Safety Concerns: Although rarely discussed during advising sessions, students are four times more likely to want to discuss safety issues as a topic than advisors, highlighting a disconnect that impacts re-enrollment.
    • Learner Awareness: Only 54% of institutions effectively communicate available student support services, underscoring an awareness gap that could significantly boost retention and re-enrollment rates. This gap is larger for students with disabilities and online students.
    • Basic Needs Costs: 60% of students cite the cost of course materials as a crucial factor in course selection, stressing the financial burdens impacting their academic choices.
    • Generative AI: 50% of students would continue using generative AI tools even if banned, indicating robust student interest in these technologies.
    • Stopped-out Learners: FAFSA delays have had disproportional effects on re-enrolled learners’ decisions to re-enroll and potentially transfer to a different college or university
    • Equity-Excellence Imperative: Despite having a perspective on which student populations are most at risk, 54% of academic advisors don’t know if student utilization of support services is tracked by at-risk sub-populations (e.g., students who are working while in school or from rural areas), suggesting a lack of targeted support.

    “At Tyton Partners, we believe deeply in the power of data to inform actionable insights,” said Catherine Shaw, Managing Director at Tyton Partners and lead author of Listening to Learners. “Through Listening to Learners, we aim to bridge the gap between student experiences and institutional strategies, fostering environments that support all aspects of student success, both in and outside the classroom.”

    “This research underscores the urgent need for higher education to equip learners with the skills for a lifelong learning journey,” said Dr. Cristi Ford, Vice President of Academic Affairs at D2L. “As people live and work longer, the traditional three-stage model of education, employment, and retirement must transform into a continuous cycle of learning and earning.”

    This year’s research, supported by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, D2L, and Lumina Foundation, highlights the critical need for educational institutions to align more closely with student needs. By bridging this gap, we can not only enhance equity and effectiveness within the educational landscape but also pave the way for innovative practices that will shape the future of learning.

    Read Listening to Learners 2024 here.

    About Tyton Partners
    Tyton Partners is the leading provider of strategy consulting and investment banking services to the global knowledge and information services sector. With offices in Boston and New York City, the firm has an experienced team of bankers and consultants who deliver a unique spectrum of services from mergers and acquisitions and capital markets access to strategy development that helps companies, organizations, and investors navigate the complexities of the education, media, and information markets. Tyton Partners leverages a deep foundation of transactional and advisory experience and an unparalleled level of global relationships to make its clients’ aspirations a reality and to catalyze innovation in the sector. Learn more at tytonpartners.com.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: hlpy Raises 18 Millions Euros and Goes Shopping in Europe

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Acquisition of German HESA Solutions GmbH – MySchleppApp

    Nextalia SGR and Alkemia Capital SGR lead the Series B round of the Italian scale-up in the digital motor assistance sector

    MILAN, Sept. 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — hlpy, the leading Italian scale-up in full digital services for mobility and vehicle assistance, has successfully completed a capital raise of 18 million euros aimed at strengthening its growth process in major European markets and acquiring a leading operator in Germany in digital roadside assistance: HESA Solutions GmbH – MySchleppApp.

    The operation was co-led by Nextalia SGR through the Nextalia Venture fund and the current partner Sinergia Venture Fund of Alkemia Capital SGR, with the participation of all major shareholders of hlpy, including The Techshop SGR, CDP Venture Capital – fondo Corporate Partners I, ServiceTech, and Simest. The Series B consists of 80% capital increase and 20% long-term financing provided by credit institutions.

    Thanks to this financial injection, hlpy accelerates its international expansion plan and announces its first M&A operation in Europe with the acquisition of 100% of the capital of HESA Solutions GmbH, commercially known as MySchleppApp, one of the leading digital roadside assistance companies in Germany and Austria, with annual growth rates exceeding 130%.

    The acquisition of MySchleppApp allows hlpy to consolidate its position as the primary European operator of full-digital roadside assistance, offering its services not only in Italy, France, and Spain but also in Germany and Austria. These services include assistance, repair, and vehicle maintenance through the use of a software platform based on machine learning and artificial intelligence.

    MySchleppApp delivers its services through a network of over 1,500 partners on the ground, with operations and a technology platform that integrate well with hlpy’s.

    Since its market entry in February 2021, hlpy has handled over 550,000 assistance requests and, following the acquisition, expects to triple the volumes of fiscal year 2023, projecting a positive EBITDA.

    “This operation,” explained Valerio Chiaronzi, CEO of hlpy, “supported by leading investors, strengthens hlpy’s leadership in the European market for digital car assistance. The capital increase reflects our shareholders’ confidence in hlpy’s growth path, which recorded a revenue increase of 157% in 2023 compared to 2022, and this year will also grow by triple digits. Despite exponential organic growth, we saw the opportunity presented by MySchleppApp as the right one to seize to enter an important market like Germany and clearly mark our growth trajectory and future: to become a leader in mobility services, redefining the rules and standards in roadside assistance, as well as in vehicle repair and maintenance, without any geographical limits. We are excited to welcome the MySchleppApp team, with whom we have formed a unique synergy from day one, thanks to shared corporate values, an operational model, and a technological approach aligned with our vision.

    “We also believe that the integration of our realities can bring concrete benefits to our business partners – many of whom are common and cross-country – who, post- integration, will have a holistic view of their vehicles and drivers in multiple countries.”

    “We are proud and excited to join the hlpy group,” added Santosh Satschdeva, CEO of HESA Solutions GmbH. “The integration between hlpy and MySchleppApp represents the union of two of the most technologically advanced entities in the vehicle assistance sector in Europe, with the common goal of providing our commercial partners and drivers with a superior customer experience, while also reducing operational costs and vehicle downtime. Together, we can expand a unique service model without any geographical barriers, accelerating the growth of the network and customer base.”

    hlpy was born in Milan in May 2020 with the aim of reinventing vehicle assistance. Thanks to its innovative digital platform, hlpy aims to create value for insurance companies, car manufacturers, rental companies, rescue operators, and, above all, to make the service more reliable and secure for end users.

    HESA Solutions GmbH, with its brand MySchleppApp, was founded in Germany in 2016. The business focus is on roadside assistance and support in the event of vehicle breakdowns. MySchleppApp’s approximately 75 clients include automobile manufacturers, fleet managers, and leasing companies. Its strength lies in the fully digital management of rescue requests, with a highly efficient rescuer engagement process and short waiting times for customers.

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/d353f255-eab3-4f97-a5a1-42b5c4afa297
    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/981a26b8-8423-4573-990b-2366331b2c2a

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: TowneBank and Village Bank and Trust Financial Corp. Announce Agreement to Merge

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SUFFOLK, Va. and MIDLOTHIAN, Va., Sept. 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Hampton Roads based TowneBank (NASDAQ: TOWN) and Village Bank and Trust Financial Corp. (NASDAQCM: VBFC) (“Village”), the parent company of Village Bank, today announced the signing of a definitive agreement and plan of reorganization pursuant to which TowneBank will acquire Village and Village Bank. The proposed transaction will enhance TowneBank’s continued and growing presence in the Richmond MSA while providing opportunity for diverse revenue synergies with Towne Financial Services Group and strategic capital deployment.

    “Our TowneBank family is humbled and excited to partner with Village Bank and its team members,” said G. Robert Aston, Jr., Executive Chairman of TowneBank. “We believe our partnership can bring additional products and expanded services to the clients of Village Bank while meaningfully enhancing our Richmond presence, which is core to our franchise and future growth.”

    “We’re excited to partner with TowneBank,” said Jay Hendricks, President and Chief Executive Officer of Village. “This merger is not just a business decision but a strategic move to enhance the value we deliver to our customers. This partnership will give us the ability to continue to meet our customers’ banking needs with greater resources and products while providing increased opportunities for our employees.” 

    Based on financials reported as of June 30, 2024, the combined companies would have total assets of $17.8 billion, loans of $12.1 billion and deposits of $14.9 billion. Under the terms of the agreement, shareholders of Village will receive $80.25 per share in cash for each share of Village outstanding common stock. This corresponds to an aggregate transaction value of approximately $120.0 million, based on Village common stock currently outstanding.

    TowneBank expects the transaction to be approximately 6% accretive to earnings per share with fully phased-in cost savings on a GAAP basis.

    In consideration of the transaction, extensive due diligence was performed by the management teams of TowneBank and Village. The definitive agreement was approved by the boards of directors of TowneBank and Village. The transaction is expected to close in the first half of 2025 and is subject to customary conditions, including regulatory approval, as well as the approval of Village’s shareholders.

    Piper Sandler & Co. served as the financial advisor and Troutman Pepper Hamilton Sanders LLP served as legal counsel to TowneBank in the transaction. Janney Montgomery Scott served as the financial advisor and Williams Mullen served as legal counsel to Village in the transaction.

    About TowneBank:
    Founded in 1999, TowneBank is a company built on relationships, offering a full range of banking and other financial services, with a focus of serving others and enriching lives. Dedicated to a culture of caring, Towne values all employees and members by embracing their diverse talents, perspectives, and experiences.

    Today, the bank operates over 50 banking offices throughout Hampton Roads and Central Virginia, as well as Northeastern and Central North Carolina – serving as a local leader in promoting the social, cultural, and economic growth in each community. TowneBank offers a competitive array of business and personal banking solutions, delivered with only the highest ethical standards. Experienced local bankers providing a higher level of expertise and personal attention with local decision-making are key to the TowneBank strategy. TowneBank has grown its capabilities beyond banking to provide expertise through its controlled divisions and subsidiaries that include Towne Wealth Management, Towne Insurance Agency, Towne Benefits, TowneBank Mortgage, TowneBank Commercial Mortgage, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Towne Realty, Towne 1031 Exchange, LLC, and Towne Vacations. With total assets of $17.1 billion as of June 30, 2024, TowneBank is one of the largest banks headquartered in Virginia.

    About Village Bank and Trust Financial Corp.
    Headquartered in Midlothian, Virginia, Village Bank and Trust Financial Corp. is the holding company for Village Bank. Village Bank was founded in 1999 and operates nine branch offices serving the greater Richmond Metropolitan area and Williamsburg, Virginia. Village Bank and Trust Financial Corp. had total assets of $747.7 million as of June 30, 2024. Additional information is available at the company’s website, http://www.villagebank.com.

    Media contact:
    G. Robert Aston, Jr., Executive Chairman, TowneBank, 757-638-6780
    William I. Foster III, Chief Executive Officer, TowneBank, 757-417-6482
    James E. Hendricks Jr., Chief Executive Officer, Village Bank and Trust Financial Corp., 804-419-1253

    Investor contact:
    William B. Littreal, Chief Financial Officer, TowneBank, 757-638-6813
    Deborah M. Golding, Vice President, Village Bank and Trust Financial Corp., 804-897-3900

    Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
    This press release contains certain forward-looking statements as defined by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements are not historical facts, but instead represent only the beliefs, expectations, or opinions of TowneBank and Village and their respective management teams regarding future events, many of which, by their nature, are inherently uncertain and beyond the control of TowneBank and Village. Forward-looking statements may be identified by the use of such words as: “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “plan,” “estimate,” or words of similar meaning, or future or conditional terms, such as “will,” “would,” “should,” “could,” “may,” “likely,” “probably,” or “possibly.” These statements may address issues that involve significant risks, uncertainties, estimates, and assumptions made by management, including statements about (i) the benefits of the transaction, including future financial and operating results, cost savings, enhancement to revenue and accretion to reported earnings that may be realized from the transaction and (ii) TowneBank’s and Village’s plans, objectives, expectations and intentions and other statements contained in this press release that are not historical facts. In addition, these forward-looking statements are subject to various risks, uncertainties, estimates and assumptions with respect to future business strategies and decisions that are subject to change and difficult to predict with regard to timing, extent, likelihood and degree of occurrence. Although TowneBank’s and Village’s respective management teams believe that estimates and assumptions on which forward-looking statements are based are reasonable, such estimates and assumptions are inherently uncertain. As a result, actual results may differ materially from the anticipated results discussed in these forward-looking statements because of possible uncertainties.

    The following factors, among others, could cause actual results to differ materially from the anticipated results or other expectations expressed in the forward-looking statements: (1) the business of Village and Village Bank may not be successfully integrated into TowneBank, or such integration may take longer, be more difficult, time-consuming or costly to accomplish than expected; (2) the expected growth opportunities or cost savings from the transaction may not be fully realized or may take longer to realize than expected; (3) deposit attrition, operating costs, customer losses and business disruption following the transaction, including adverse effects on relationships with employees and customers, may be greater than expected; (4) the regulatory approvals required for the transaction may not be obtained on the proposed terms or on the anticipated schedule; (5) the shareholders of Village may fail to approve the transaction; (6) economic, legislative or regulatory changes, including changes in accounting standards, may adversely affect the businesses in which TowneBank and Village are engaged; (7) competitive pressures in the banking industry that may increase significantly; (8) changes in the interest rate environment that may reduce margins and/or the volumes and values of loans made or held as well as the value of other financial assets held; (9) an unforeseen outflow of cash or deposits or an inability to access the capital markets, which could jeopardize TowneBank’s or Village’s overall liquidity or capitalization; (10) changes in the creditworthiness of customers and the possible impairment of the collectability of loans; (11) insufficiency of TowneBank’s or Village’s allowance for credit losses due to market conditions, inflation, changing interest rates or other factors; (12) adverse developments in the financial industry generally, such as the recent bank failures, responsive measures to mitigate and manage such developments, related supervisory and regulatory actions and costs, and related impacts on customer and client behavior; (13) general economic conditions, either nationally or regionally, that may be less favorable than expected, resulting in, among other things, a deterioration in credit quality and/or a reduced demand for credit or other services; (14) weather-related or natural disasters, acts of war or terrorism, or public health events (such as the COVID-19 pandemic); (15) changes in the legislative or regulatory environment, including changes in accounting standards and tax laws, that may adversely affect TowneBank’s or Village’s businesses; (16) cybersecurity threats or attacks, whether directed at us or at vendors or other third parties with which we interact, the implementation of new technologies, and the ability to develop and maintain reliable electronic systems; (17) competitors may have greater financial resources and develop products that enable them to compete more successfully; (18) changes in business conditions; (19) changes in the securities market; and (20) changes in the local economies with regard to TowneBank’s and Village’s respective market areas.

    Additional factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements are discussed in TowneBank’s reports (such as Annual Reports on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and Current Reports on Form 8-K) filed with the Federal Deposit Corporation (“FDIC”) and Village’s reports (such as Annual Reports on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and Current Reports on Form 8-K) filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). TowneBank and Village undertake no obligation to update or clarify these forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

    Additional Information
    This press release does not constitute a solicitation of any vote or approval. Village will deliver a definitive proxy statement to its shareholders seeking approval of the transaction and related matters. In addition, each of TowneBank and Village may file other relevant documents concerning the proposed transaction with the FDIC and SEC.

    Investors, TowneBank shareholders and Village shareholders are strongly urged to read the definitive proxy statement regarding the proposed transaction when it becomes available and other relevant documents filed with the FDIC and SEC, as well as any amendments or supplements to those documents, because they will contain important information about TowneBank, Village and the proposed transaction. Free copies of the definitive proxy statement, as well as other filings containing information about Village, may be obtained after their filing at the SEC’s website (http://www.sec.gov). In addition, free copies of the definitive proxy statement, when available, also may be obtained by directing a request by telephone or mail to Village Bank and Trust Financial Corp., 13319 Midlothian Turnpike, Midlothian, Virginia 23113, Attention: Investor Relations (telephone: (804) 897-3900), or by accessing Village’s website at https://www.villagebank.com under “About Us Investor Relations.” The documents described above also may be obtained by directing a request by telephone or mail to TowneBank, 6001 Harbour View Boulevard, Suffolk, Virginia 23425, Attention: Investor Relations (telephone: (757) 638-6794), or by accessing TowneBank’s website at https://townebank.com under “Investor Relations.” The information on TowneBank’s and Village’s websites is not, and shall not be deemed to be, a part of this presentation or incorporated into other filings either company makes with the FDIC or SEC.

    TowneBank, Village, and their respective directors and executive officers may be deemed to be participants in the solicitation of proxies from the shareholders of Village in connection with the proposed transaction. Information about the directors and executive officers of Village and other persons who may be deemed participants in the solicitation, including their interests in the transaction, will be included in the proxy statement when it becomes available. Information about TowneBank’s directors and executive officers can be found in TowneBank’s definitive proxy statement in connection with its 2024 annual meeting of shareholders, filed with the FDIC on April 11, 2024. Additional information about Village’s directors and executive officers can be found in Village’s definitive proxy statement in connection with its 2024 annual meeting of shareholders filed with the SEC on April 9, 2024. Free copies of each document may be obtained as described in the preceding paragraph.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: QuestionPro Announces Fall Xday 2024 North America Lineup

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    AUSTIN, Texas, Sept. 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — QuestionPro, a global leader in online survey and research services today announced the agenda and speaker lineup for its annual customer event, XDay 2024 North America. The event takes place Thursday, October 3, 2024 from 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. (U.S. Central Time) at the Thompson Austin in Austin, Texas. The event features keynotes, in-depth panels, and one-to-one chats with industry leaders on a range of topics related to the future of insights, experience, and delight.

    The day begins with opening remarks from Vivek Bhaskaran, QuestionPro’s founder and CEO, whose irreverent personality is combined with deep industry knowledge and vision. He will unveil exciting new products and feature updates across QuestionPro product lines and set the stage for a day of innovation and inspiration.

    Bhaskaran is followed immediately by the morning keynote from Dr. Dipul Patadia, a visionary healthcare executive with over 20 years of experience of leadership, innovation and insights. As the Head of Health System Strategy and Innovation at Salesforce, he has been pivotal in aligning technology with the unique needs of health systems. His extensive background, including roles as Chief Medical Officer at hospitals within Ascension and Advocate Health, uniquely equips him with insights into the melding of data, and new trends.

    Attendees will benefit from his leadership in national healthcare organizations and advisory roles with multiple healthcare startups. Expect to gain actionable insights into transforming your data, AI-driven empowerment, and leading with human centric data.

    Following the morning keynotes will be a series of practitioner-led breakouts featurimg experts who have held senior roles at some of the most recognized brands in the world, including: Microsoft, Twitch, HubSpot, Cost Plus World Market and others. Panels, workshops and keynotes will cover workplace experience; AI in research and experience; deep dives on CX and many others. A full agenda is available via the web at: https://www.questionpro.com/xday/2024/

    The afternoon keynote address will be delivered by Tim Sanders, currently the Vice President of Research Insights at G2. He brings a deep understanding of AI, digital transformation, and customer-centric strategies after serving as Vice President of Client Strategy at Upwork and many other prestigious institutions. As an Executive Fellow at Harvard’s Digital Data Design Institute, he drives AI adoption and data-driven business decisions. With a rich history at Yahoo and a bestselling author, Tim’s insights on leadership, digital transformation, and change management are not to be missed.

    The event concludes with a rooftop dinner reception at Arriba Abajo, on top of the Thompson Hotel. Arriba Abajo beckons guests with its unique blend of cantina concept and elevated hospitality while captivating guests with its awe-inspiring rooftop patio and pool.

    The event is open to the public. Information and registration are available online at:
    https://www.questionpro.com/xday/2024/.

    About QuestionPro:
    Founded in 2006, QuestionPro is a global provider of online survey and research services that help companies make better decisions through data. Our fully integrated online platform includes surveys, research & insights, customer experience (CX) and workforce/employee experience software. We additionally offer polling, journey mapping, employee 360s, and data visualization. Our clientele ranges from small businesses to Fortune 100 companies, who rely on us for insights about customers, employees, and the marketplace. With offices in the US, Canada, Mexico, U.K., Germany, Japan, Australia, the United Arab Emirates and India, we offer customers 24-7 access to highly trained support specialists and engineers. More information is available at www.questionpro.com.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: DocNetwork Achieves SOC 2 Type 2 Certification for CampDoc and SchoolDoc Platforms

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ANN ARBOR, Mich., Sept. 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — DocNetwork announced that it has successfully completed a SOC 2 Type 2 audit for its CampDoc and SchoolDoc platforms, reinforcing its commitment to the highest standards of data security and privacy.

    After completing their SOC 2 Type 1 and HIPAA audits in April 2024, Sensiba LLP completed a new audit to affirm that DocNetwork’s information security practices, policies, procedures, and operations meet the Service Organization Control (SOC) 2 standards for security, availability, processing integrity, confidentiality, and privacy over a period of time.

    SOC 2 Type 2 and HIPAA are the gold standard for data security and privacy, ensuring companies handle data responsibly. Completing these audits marks a significant milestone for DocNetwork, and sets their software apart from competitors. CampDoc is the only camp management software to achieve SOC 2 Type 2 and HIPAA certification, and SchoolDoc is the only school Electronic Health Record (EHR) software to achieve SOC 2 Type 2 and HIPAA certification.

    As camps and schools continue to rely on external vendors for essential operations, it is vital they trust and understand the software systems they use. DocNetwork’s independent security validation helps safeguard the Personal Identifiable Information (PII) and Protected Health Information (PHI) of campers, students, and staff.

    “Achieving SOC 2 Type 1 and HIPAA certification was an important milestone, but progressing to SOC 2 Type 2 demonstrates our ongoing commitment to rigorous privacy and security standards,” said Dr. Michael Ambrose, Founder and CEO of DocNetwork. “This achievement reinforces our dedication to protecting the camps and schools we serve, ensuring their confidence in our continuous efforts toward compliance and data protection.”

    CampDoc and SchoolDoc offer the most comprehensive solution to help ensure the health and safety of children while they are away from home. DocNetwork is trusted by over 1,250 programs across all 50 states and internationally, including traditional day and residential camps, YMCAs, Jewish Community Centers (JCCs), Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts, parks and recreation facilities, colleges and universities, and K-12 public, private, and charter schools.

    Camps and schools should visit www.campdoc.com or www.schooldoc.com for more information.

    About DocNetwork
    DocNetwork is an international, comprehensive electronic health record system, offering solutions to improve efficiency and maximize safety in camps, schools, and businesses. A collaborative effort between doctors, nurses, camp and school directors, and business owners, DocNetwork helps organizations manage health forms, allergies, medications, immunizations, and illness and injury tracking. DocNetwork also offers online registration, travel and emergency medical protection, emergency text message alerts, check-in, and attendance. For more information about DocNetwork and web-based health management, please visit www.campdoc.com, www.schooldoc.com, or call 734-619-8300.

    Contact:
    Michael Ambrose, M.D.
    DocNetwork
    734-619-8300
    michael@docnetwork.org

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Tuya Smart Selects Cerence to Provide Multi-Lingual Text-to-Speech for its Two-Wheeler Developer Platform

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BURLINGTON, Mass., Sept. 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Cerence Inc. (NASDAQ: CRNC), AI for a world in motion, today announced that Tuya Smart (NYSE: Tuya, HKEX: 2391), a global cloud platform service provider, is partnering with Cerence to provide multi-lingual text-to-speech (TTS) for its cloud developer platform designed specifically for two-wheeled vehicles, including motorcycles, e-bikes, and more.

    Tuya’s cloud developer platform provides its customers – in this case, the more than 100 two-wheeler manufacturers using the “Works with Smart Life” app – with a complete set of smart solutions, including apps, cloud capabilities, hardware, and more. Tuya will integrate Cerence TTS into its cloud developer platform designed for two-wheeler solutions, which will further enable riders to request and hear via voice real-time riding speed, riding time, battery information, phone and text messages, etc., making each ride safer and more enjoyable. In the future, the companies will partner to bring additional Cerence solutions to Tuya’s cloud developer platform, further enhancing voice-powered interaction for two-wheeler riders.

    “As voice-powered interaction continues to gain relevance and usage among consumers, it only makes sense that we would enhance our offerings with voice capabilities,” said Tony Kong, General Manager of Outdoor Business Department, Tuya Smart. “By leveraging Cerence’s industry-leading TTS, we bring best-in-class technology to our customers looking to enhance the two-wheeler rider experience with improved safety and functionality.”

    “Two-wheelers continue to present an exciting opportunity for Cerence to expand its industry-leading innovation to new areas of transportation,” said Nils Schanz, Chief Product Officer, Cerence. “We look forward to expanding the reach of our two-wheeler solutions, and transforming the rider experience, by partnering with Tuya to reach developers driving innovation within two-wheeler manufacturers.”

    To learn more about Cerence, visit www.cerence.com, and follow the company on LinkedIn.

    About Cerence Inc.
    Cerence (NASDAQ: CRNC) is the global industry leader in creating unique, moving experiences for the mobility world. As an innovation partner to the world’s leading automakers and mobility OEMs, it is helping advance the future of connected mobility through intuitive, AI-powered interaction between humans and their vehicles, connecting consumers’ digital lives to their daily journeys no matter where they are. Cerence’s track record is built on more than 20 years of knowledge and 500 million cars shipped with Cerence technology. Whether it’s connected cars, autonomous driving, e-vehicles, or two-wheelers, Cerence is mapping the road ahead. For more information, visit www.cerence.com.  

    About Tuya Smart
    Tuya Inc. (NYSE: TUYA; HKEX: 2391) is a global leading cloud platform service provider with a mission to build a smart solutions developer ecosystem and enable everything to be smart. Tuya has pioneered a purpose-built cloud developer platform with cloud and generative AI capabilities that delivers a full suite of offerings, including Platform-as-a-Service, or PaaS, Software-as-a-Service, or SaaS, and smart solutions for developers of smart device, commercial applications, and industries. Through its cloud developer platform, Tuya has activated a vibrant global developer community of brands, OEMs, AI Agents, system integrators and independent software vendors to collectively strive for smart solutions ecosystem embodying the principles of green and low-carbon, security, high efficiency, agility, and openness.

    Contact Information
    Kate Hickman | Tel: 339-215-4583 | Email: kate.hickman@cerence.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: DISQO Holiday Advertising Insights: Consumers Embrace Early Shopping Opportunities and New Discovery Tools

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LOS ANGELES, Sept. 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Today, DISQO released its 2024 Holiday Advertising report, offering marketers actionable insights into consumer holiday shopping behaviors and advertising preferences. Shoppers today have more options than ever for purchasing, discovery, and engagement. Understanding these shifts is critical for brands seeking to effectively tailor their strategies, break through the noise, and drive meaningful connections that influence purchasing decisions.

    DISQO’s new report underscores the increasing importance of employing omnichannel strategies, embracing test-and-learn approaches, and innovating advertising to capture consumers throughout their shopping journey. DISQO asked over 3,000 US members of its 100% owned and opted-in audience of 2.3M people about their 2024 holiday shopping plans. The results are balanced and weighted to the US population on gender, household income, and age.

    Key insights from the report reveal:

    • Holiday shopping is starting earlier: 52% of holiday shoppers plan to begin before November, with almost one-fifth (18%) starting before October.
    • Enabling an omnicommerce shopping journey is essential: 45% of shoppers plan to shop both in-person and online equally this year.
    • Retail media and interactive ads are gaining traction: 87% of shoppers said they had seen a seasonal ad on a retail platform that led to a purchase, while 41% said they were likely to engage with interactive ads offering exclusive holiday deals.
    • Social media drives holiday purchases: 76% of shoppers said they had purchased a product after seeing a holiday ad on a social platform, with Facebook, YouTube, and Instagram leading the way.
    • Cost and convenience win: 61% of shoppers found “free shipping” the most appealing message, and 51% were drawn to budget-friendly offers.
    • Gen Z leads in-store Black Friday shopping: 52% of Gen Z shoppers said they plan to shop in person on Black Friday, offering brands a key opportunity for in-store engagement.

    “As the holiday shopping season shifts earlier and spans across more platforms, it’s crucial for marketers to adopt a data-driven approach,” said Stephen Jepson, President, Media Effectiveness at DISQO. “To stay at the top of consumer’s wish lists, brands and retailers must continuously test campaign timing, messages, and channels, and invest in cross-platform measurement that breaks through siloed walls.”

    About DISQO

    DISQO is building the most trusted experience platform that fuels brand growth. DISQO powers smart business decisions by helping clients measure every customer, touchpoint, and outcome. DISQO’s identity-based ad measurement and audience products are powered by millions of consumers on the industry’s largest opt-in consumer data platform. DISQO is recognized in Deloitte’s Fast 500 and Ad Age’s Best Places to Work, and has won ad measurement awards from Digiday and Cynopsis Media. Follow @DISQO on LinkedIn.

    Media Contacts
    Stacy Perrus
    stacy.perrus@disqo.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: SIOS Technology Releases LifeKeeper for Linux Version 9.9.0 with Enhanced Disaster Recovery and Performance Optimization

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN MATEO, Calif., Sept. 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —  SIOS Technology Corp., a leading provider of application high availability (HA) and disaster recovery (DR) solutions, today announced the immediate release of SIOS LifeKeeper for Linux version 9.9.0. This latest version introduces advanced DR features, including synchronous and asynchronous data mirroring, intelligent failover mechanisms, enhanced security management, expanded language support, and additional Linux operating system compatibility.

    As enterprise applications and databases become increasingly critical to business operations, the need for robust HA/DR solutions has never been more vital. IT administrators are tasked with the challenging responsibility of ensuring continuous uptime and safeguarding against data loss, all while managing complex infrastructures and evolving security threats.

    “Our latest release offers the flexibility to tailor HA replication strategies to meet specific needs while automating failover and ensuring reliable restoration processes,” said Masahiro Arai, COO of SIOS Technology. “By eliminating complex manual steps, we ensure faster recovery times and maintain data consistency across all environments, saving both time and reducing the potential for human error.”

    Key Features of SIOS LifeKeeper for Linux 9.9.0, include:

    Advanced Disaster Recovery Protection:

    • Fully automated failover to DR nodes across different AWS regions or availability zones via WAN.
    • Flexibility to create both synchronous and asynchronous replication for geographically separated DR sites.
    • Automatic failover with no need for time-consuming data resynchronization.
    • Subscription add-on available to optimize DR performance and data integrity based on application-specific needs. Supported OS for this add-on are: RHEL 8.9/8.10, RHEL 9.3/9.4, SLES 15SP4/15SP5.

    Intelligent Failover for Added Reliability:

    • In a three-node cluster, SIOS automatically checks the status of secondary and tertiary nodes, ensuring a seamless failover to the tertiary node, if necessary.
    • Fast and efficient failover processes that guarantee system integrity.
    • Added redundancy protection with multiple paths and resources to eliminate single points of failure.

    Updated Security Management:

    • Enhanced security, maintainability, and access control.
    • IT administrators can now grant elevated permissions to users without compromising security by using personalized access credentials. This provides better traceability on SAP/HANA-related operations so they can review the activities from a security perspective.

    Expanded Language Support:

    • The SIOS LifeKeeper Web Management Console now supports German and Korean, in addition to Japanese and English.
    • Single Server Protection can now be managed through the updated Web Management Console.

    Additional Linux Operating System Support:

    • Support for Alma Linux and Amazon Linux 2023.

    Availability:
    SIOS LifeKeeper for Linux version 9.9.0 is now available. More information can be found here: https://us.sios.com/products/sios-lifekeeper-linux/

    About SIOS Technology Corp.

    SIOS Technology Corp. high availability and disaster recovery solutions ensure availability and eliminate data loss for critical Windows and Linux applications operating across physical, virtual, cloud, and hybrid cloud environments. SIOS clustering software is essential for any IT infrastructure with applications requiring a high degree of resiliency, ensuring uptime without sacrificing performance or data – protecting businesses from local failures and regional outages, planned and unplanned. Founded in 1999, SIOS Technology Corp. (https://us.sios.com) is headquartered in San Mateo, California, with offices worldwide.

    SIOS, SIOS Technology, SIOS DataKeeper, SIOS LifeKeeper and associated logos are registered trademarks or trademarks of SIOS Technology Corp. and/or its affiliates in the United States and/or other countries. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

    Media Contact:

    Beth Winkowski
    Winkowski Public Relations, LLC for SIOS
    978-649-7189
    bethwinkowski@US.SIOS.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Enphase Brings IQ Battery to India, Offering Energy Independence Amid Outages

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    FREMONT, Calif., Sept. 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Enphase Energy, Inc. (NASDAQ: ENPH), a global energy technology company and the world’s leading supplier of microinverter-based solar and battery systems, announced today the launch of its most powerful Enphase® Energy System™ to-date, featuring the new IQ® Battery 5P™ and IQ8™ Microinverters, for customers in India.

    India’s power grid is among the most challenging in the world, with frequent outages disrupting daily life for many households. The new Enphase Energy System transforms this situation by enabling uninterrupted, reliable backup power. Key components of the system include:

    • IQ Battery 5P: Enphase’s most powerful home battery yet, designed for modularity. Starting at 5 kWh, it can scale up to 40 kWh to meet varying home energy needs. With 3.84 kW continuous power and 7.68 kW peak power for short bursts, it enables homeowners to run even the most power-hungry appliances during outages. Built with advanced lithium iron phosphate (LFP) chemistry, the battery offers enhanced safety and significantly less maintenance compared to the widely used lead-acid batteries in India.
    • IQ®System Controller: The controller (or backup switch) isolates the home from the grid during outages, allowing seamless power supply from Enphase’s solar and IQ Battery 5P systems. The transition is instant, so most homeowners won’t even know there was an outage.
    • IQ®Microinverters: Homeowners can choose between IQ7 or IQ8 Microinverters. The IQ8HC™ and IQ8P™ Microinverters, launched in India last year, deliver peak AC output power of 384 W and 480 W, respectively, and seamlessly pair with solar panels up to 670 W DC. IQ8 Microinverters are grid-forming and feature Enphase’s Sunlight Jump Start™, allowing the system to restart using sunlight after a prolonged grid outage that drains the battery.

    “The launch of the IQ Battery 5P marks a significant milestone for India,” said Harsha Kuntur, managing director at Ecosoch Solar. “These are some of the most advanced batteries, with built-in smart inverters that integrate seamlessly into Enphase’s ecosystem, providing complete control over both critical and non-critical loads. Homeowners can optimize energy use and ensure resilience, even under high demand. Scalable and future-ready, they allow power export to the grid during non-solar hours. With a long warranty and a durable design that eliminates any single point of failure, these batteries set a new standard in energy solutions for Indian homes.”

    “Our customers are increasingly looking for energy independence, and the Enphase Energy System, powered by the new IQ Battery 5P, delivers just that,” said Rakshith Talanki, director at SunPV Energy Pvt. Ltd. “The system’s flexibility and advanced technology, including the IQ8 Microinverters, enable us to provide solutions that are not only reliable but also scalable for future growth. This gives homeowners the confidence to power through outages and reduce their reliance on the grid.”

    Homeowners can use the Enphase® App to monitor performance and intelligently manage their battery systems, including the self-consumption feature to minimize grid electricity use. The App also offers homeowners the ability to disconnect from the grid entirely and reconnect with ease, all with just a few taps when desired. Enphase provides 24/7 customer support and industry-leading warranties, including a 15-year limited warranty—extendable up to 25 years—on IQ8 Microinverters and a 15-year limited warranty on IQ Batteries activated in India. Both limited warranties require the installation of an IQ® Relay device. The IQ Relay is integrated into the IQ System Controller for systems with IQ Batteries.

    “Homeowners prioritize reliability and safety when selecting a home energy system,” said Thejas Babu, director at Thapas Energy. “The Enphase Energy System with the IQ Battery 5P is designed to provide exceptional reliability, safety, and performance, enabling homeowners to effectively harness solar power for their daily energy needs.”

    “At Enphase, we strive to provide world-class technology for homeowners and businesses to support their energy needs,” said Mehran Sedigh, senior vice president of sales at Enphase Energy. “As India aims to increase its clean energy generation, we’re proud to work with our installer network across the country to equip homeowners with smart, safe, and powerful solar and battery products.”

    Distributors and installers in India can now place pre-orders for the IQ Battery 5P, with shipments to installers expected to begin in December. For more information about the IQ Battery 5P in India, please visit the Enphase website.

    About Enphase Energy, Inc.

    Enphase Energy, a global energy technology company based in Fremont, CA, is the world’s leading supplier of microinverter-based solar and battery systems that enable people to harness the sun to make, use, save, and sell their own power—and control it all with a smart mobile app. The company revolutionized the solar industry with its microinverter-based technology and builds all-in-one solar, battery, and software solutions. Enphase has shipped approximately 76.3 million microinverters, and over 4.3 million Enphase-based systems have been deployed in more than 150 countries. For more information, visit https://enphase.com/.

    ©2024 Enphase Energy, Inc. All rights reserved. Enphase Energy, Enphase, the “e” logo, IQ, IQ8, Solargraf, and certain other marks listed at https://enphase.com/trademark-usage-guidelines are trademarks or service marks of Enphase Energy, Inc. Other names are for informational purposes and may be trademarks of their respective owners.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release may contain forward-looking statements, including statements related to the expected capabilities and performance of Enphase Energy’s technology and products in India, including safety, quality and reliability; and the availability and market adoption of Enphase products in India. These forward-looking statements are based on Enphase Energy’s current expectations and inherently involve significant risks and uncertainties. Actual results and the timing of events could differ materially from those contemplated by these forward-looking statements as a result of such risks and uncertainties including those risks described in more detail in Enphase Energy’s most recently filed Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, Annual Report on Form 10-K, and other documents filed by Enphase Energy from time to time with the SEC. Enphase Energy undertakes no duty or obligation to update any forward-looking statements contained in this release as a result of new information, future events or changes in its expectations, except as required by law.

    Contact:

    Enphase Energy
    press@enphaseenergy.com

    This press release was published by a CLEAR® Verified individual.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Aurora Information Technology joins Softlink Information Centres

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BRISBANE, Australia, Sept. 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Softlink Information Centres, a Volaris Group company, has acquired Aurora Information Technology (AIT), developer of library automation software used in public and special libraries. Their flagship product, Aurora Library Management System (LMS), is based on Aurora Montage – a patron web catalogue. This year, a new, cloud-based library staff solution called Aurora Astria was introduced to the market.

    AIT was established in the late 1990s. Co-founders, Doug Coulson and Martin Fisk, designed and developed the product.

    “It took us almost one year to build Aurora software to the point of winning business. Our first customer was the Royal Blind Society (NSW) which over time became part of Vision Australia.  AIT is now providing software for Vision Australia’s major digital transformation project. With software capabilities for Libraries for the Blind, we also won business with national organisations in New Zealand and South Africa.” Doug Coulson, AIT Co-founder.

    Today, Aurora is found in large and small public libraries, predominantly in Australia. This includes the Rural Libraries Queensland network, managed by the State Library of Queensland. The solution supports the delivery of a centralised catalogue and networked library services throughout the State.

    For more than 10 years, AIT has donated Aurora LMS software, hosting and services to all indigenous knowledge centres through Queensland.  

    “The average life of a small business is less than 9 years, so to have been in business now for 28 years, still having our original customers and being able to help support indigenous library services along the way, is something for which AIT founders are very grateful.   We are pleased that Aurora has found a home at Softlink Information Centres.” Doug Coulson, AIT Co-founder.

    Sarah Thompson, General Manager of Softlink Information Centres adds: “It is exciting to include AIT as part of our wider community of software businesses across the globe that work tirelessly to provide exceptional solutions to librarians, researchers and library managers.”

    The AIT team will join Softlink Information Centres, led by Sarah Thompson.  

    About Softlink Information Centres

    Softlink Information Centres has been a leader in providing library, knowledge and research management solutions for over 40 years. Our products are trusted by hundreds of businesses worldwide, including some of the largest multi-branch law firms, parliamentary, government libraries and top management consulting firms. We combine the latest technology with ease of use and affordability, enabling our clients to adapt, grow and deliver superior services. Visit us at Softlink Information Centres [https://ic.softlinkint.com/]. 

    For further information on Softlink Information Centres, please visit ic.softlinkint.com

    About Volaris Group

    Volaris acquires, strengthens and grows vertical market technology companies. As an operating group of Constellation Software Inc., Volaris is all about strengthening businesses within the markets they compete and enabling them to grow – whether that growth comes through organic measures such as new initiatives and product development, day-to-day business, or through complementary acquisitions. Learn more at www.volarisgroup.com.

    For more information, please contact:

    Sarah Thompson
    General Manager
    Softlink Information Centres
    Sarah.Thompson@softlinkint.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Cross Keys Capital Advises Propel Engineering in Its Partnership with Traffic & Mobility Consultants

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Fort Lauderdale, Sept. 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Cross Keys Capital, LLC, a leading independent investment banking firm providing M&A advisory services, is pleased to announce it acted as the exclusive financial advisor to Propel Engineering, a distinguished civil engineering firm based in West Palm Beach, FL, in its partnership with Traffic & Mobility Consultants (TMC), a portfolio company of Grovecourt Capital Partners.

    Founded in 2013, Propel Engineering has built an impressive reputation for delivering high-quality civil engineering services, with a particular focus on highway design, traffic analysis, and structural design. The firm’s expertise in working with both public and private sector clients, including the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), aligns perfectly with TMC’s growth strategy and commitment to excellence in transportation engineering.

    Traffic & Mobility Consultants is a Florida-based engineering company specializing in Transportation Planning and Traffic Engineering. Founded in 2012, TMC serves private clients and governmental agencies at the local, county, and state levels. TMC’s goal is to provide its clients with the highest quality services, offering innovative, strategic, and effective solutions for safe and efficient mobility.

    Maj Alam, Founder and President of Propel Engineering, commented, “Over the past decade, Propel Engineering has established itself as a trusted partner in Florida’s transportation infrastructure development. By joining TMC, we’re not just combining our expertise – we’re amplifying our ability to deliver innovative solutions for complex engineering challenges. This partnership will allow us to take on larger, more impactful projects and contribute even more significantly to Florida’s rapidly evolving transportation landscape. We’re excited about the enhanced value we’ll bring to our clients and the new opportunities this creates for our talented team.”

    Neil Dhruve, Director at Cross Keys Capital, shared his excitement, saying that “Working with Maj was an absolute pleasure, and we are excited to watch unfold all the incredible opportunities the combined companies are able to realize.”

    The financial terms of the acquisition were not disclosed. Greenberg Traurig acted as legal advisor to TMC. Cross Keys Capital acted as M&A advisor to Propel, and De Biase | Alvarez acted as legal advisor to Propel Engineering

    About Cross Keys Capital

    Cross Keys Capital is a leading middle-market investment bank providing a full range of investment banking merger and acquisition advisory services to a variety of businesses.

    This was Cross Keys’ 10th successful sell-side engagement completed in 2024.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: CMG Launches Focus CCS to Accelerate Validation of CO2 Storage Sites

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CALGARY, Alberta, Sept. 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Computer Modelling Group Ltd. (“CMG” or the “Company”) (TSX: CMG) is announcing the launch of Focus CCS, a purpose-driven simulation tool designed to accelerate the preliminary selection and validation process for CO2 storage sites.

    With its intuitive interface and guided workflows, Focus CCS enables engineers to quickly and accurately evaluate risks, predict safe CO2 storage capacities, and expedite the process leading up to permitting and regulatory approval.

    “Carbon storage is one of the most advanced and viable options to support global climate goals and ensure a sustainable future. Increasing the deployment of CCS is critical, and it must be done without compromising accuracy and safety,” said Pramod Jain, CEO of CMG. “Focus CCS leverages our decades of leadership in advanced physics modelling to significantly speed up the preliminary analysis required for successful CO2 storage site selection. This accelerates decision making and can shorten the planning and approval cycle, moving new CCS projects forward.”

    Focus CCS supports faster model building which allows users to concentrate on critical analysis for proper site selection and long-term CO2 storage. Key features include:

    • Single solution: guided workflows integrate pre-processing, simulation, and visualization into an intuitive interface, ensuring reliability for new users while offering full customization for advanced users
    • Risk mitigation: assess containment effectiveness by simulating CO2 spread and stabilization over time, based on well location and injection parameters, ensuring long-term project reliability
    • Optimize storage capacity: assess and optimize operational strategies to achieve maximum storage capacity
    • Confident business decisions: reliable data and information ensure accurate preliminary evaluation of potential storage sites, critical to the long-term success of a CCS project and avoidance of costly mistakes

    Focus CCS is now available worldwide and will make a critical contribution to getting more CCS projects into operation – supporting the global goal of progressing towards net zero.

    For more information on Focus CCS, visit our website.

    About CMG

    CMG (TSX: CMG) is a global software and consulting company that combines science and technology with deep industry expertise to solve complex subsurface and surface challenges for the new energy industry around the world. CMG is headquartered in Calgary, AB, with offices in Houston, Oxford, Dubai, Bogota, Rio de Janeiro, Bengaluru, and Kuala Lumpur. For more information, please visit www.cmgl.ca.

    Cautionary Note Regarding Forward Looking Information

    Certain statements contained in this press release constitute forward-looking information. These statements relate to future events or future performance. The use of any of the words “potential”, “target”, “optimize”, “benefit”, and similar expressions and statements relating to matters that are not historical facts are intended to identify forward-looking information and are based on CMG’s assumptions or beliefs as to the outcome or timing of such future events. In particular, this press release contains forward-looking information relating to, among other things, the expected benefits of newly developed software products. Various assumptions are applied in setting such expectations, including, but without limitation, the operational benefits and the potential time and cost savings relating to the integration and use of these products. Although such statements are based on the reasonable assumptions of CMG’s management, there can be no assurance that any conclusions will prove to be accurate. The forward-looking information contained in this press release is made as of the date hereof. Except as required by applicable securities laws, CMG is not obligated to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise. Because of the risks and assumptions contained herein, investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) 79: African Development Bank calls on Development Finance Institution’s (DFI’s) to put peace into action to promote peace and stability in Africa

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

    NEW YORK, United States of America, September 24, 2024/APO Group/ —

    The African Development Bank (www.AfDB.org) has urged Development Finance Institutions (DFIs) and other development partners to scale up innovative partnerships and initiatives to build peace and security in Africa, home to eleven of the world’s most conflict-affected states.

    Marie-Laure Akin-Olugbade, African Development Bank Vice-President for Regional Development, Integration and Business Delivery Complex led the charge during a session held September 21, on the sidelines of the 79th Assembly of the United Nations titled: Investing in Prevention: Scaling up Peace – A Call to Action for DFIs.

    Over the last 20 years, the level of global conflict has escalated, with one-fifth of Africa’s population residing in conflict affected areas, affecting the future of the world’s fastest-growing continent.

    “Our goal today is very clear. We would like to mobilise institutions to prioritise peace building and through innovative partnerships and new financial mechanisms.  This is a call for action.” Akin-Olugbade said in opening remarks.

    The New Agenda for Peace, which is at center stage of the UN’s Summit of the Future, highlights how different actors, including DFIs can serve as peace agents, and emphasises the role of partnerships, especially in the context of fragile and conflict affected countries, urging increased political and financial mobilisation to prevent conflicts.

    The effect of three decades of a devastating civil war in Mozambique are still evident, Amilcar Tivane, Mozambique’s Vice-Minister of Economy and Finance told participants, stressing the need for prevention.

    The  Mozambique government has learned innovative solutions to deal with the root causes of conflict and to address lingering security challenges in northern Mozambique such as terrorism and insurgency.  What has worked is a resilience building strategy together with partnerships, Tivane said. The country is also launching a new initiative for peace for the reconstruction of affected tourism areas

    « We have learned that prevention is critical, » he said. « Sometimes its difficult (for governments) to acknowledge that the social dimensions could have a significant impact.»

    Issa Faye, Director General of the Islamic Development Bank ( IsDB) said his institution’s blend of ordinary and concessional financing has been key to the successful  financial support for 32 fragile African countries out of the 52 they support. 

    The IsDB have aided thousands of refugees through programmes to address skills gap, training and education, combining economic empowerment and food security.

    Faye underlined Islamic financing as a concept framing a lot of the institution’s programmes and stressed the need to find alternative financing which is dedicated, responsive and resilient.

    Risk perception, another major constraint to financing peace initiatives in Africa, was the subject of Pradeep Kurukulasuriya, the Executive Secretary of the UN Capital Development Fund (UN CDF), submission. He offered a concrete example of successful de-risking of a peace initiative in Burundi.

    « UN DCRF works to de-risk so that larger streams of finance can flow from the larger and more established institutions, » he said.

    Since 2021, UNCDF has been working in collaboration with the UN Peacebuilding Fund and the Government of Burundi to address interconnected and transnational root-causes of instability and nature loss in the Kibara National Park and surrounding buffer zones. The joint initiative with several partners including UNESCO, uses a unique blended finance approach.

    Peace finance needs new a lens

    Itonde Kakoma, President of Interpeace said a new paradigm approach, which moved away from the donor focus and instead sees development partners investing in peace investment hubs and creating a pipeline of peace positive projects, is much needed.

    He said the need to connect development finance and peace building while leveraging the private sector to build peace, safety and social cohesion between communities living in complex environments, was more imperative than ever.

    « We have a conviction that the Sustainable Development Goals can be unlocked by peace finance, » Kakoma said.

    Other participants such as Elizabeth Spehar, Assistant Secretary General, United Nations Peacebuilding Support stressed the importance of inclusion and the role of DFI’s such as the African Development Bank.

    “We need the economic might of the DFI’s. We have to work on this together,” she said.

    Spehar paid tribute to the African Development Bank which emphasizes peace and security as public goods in its new Ten-year strategy (2024-2033). The Bank’s joint pilot project in Central African Republic with UNHCR has the UN “working with communities on the  peace part and the African Development Bank working on the employment part,” Spehar said.

    The Bank has been on the forefront of systematically addressing issues of fragility in Africa and has built up over 20 years of experience in building Africa’s resilience by providing intellectual leadership and dedicated financial instruments, such as the Transition Support Facility, which mobilizes additional resources for affected countries. The Bank’s Private Sector Credit Enhancement Facility allows it to do more private investments in these riskier markets.

    The audience also heard from the g7+, Asian Development Bank, Civil Society Platform for Peacebuilding and Statebuilding (CSPPS), the World Economic Forum (WEF), the Aswan Forum, UNHCR, and the African Union Peace Fund whose Director Dagmawit Moges spoke of the institution’s reforms and the importance of governance.

    “We’ve gone beyond theory and talk. We at the African Development Bank are interested in strengthening partnerships. We are not going to work in silos. We are looking forward to continuing this discussion at COP 29 and at the Africa Resilience Forum next year,” Akin-Olugbade said.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: South Sudan: MSF suspends medical activities in Yei, Central Equatoria state, following attack on staff

    Source: Médecins Sans Frontières –

    • MSF suspended outreach activities in Yei, Central Equatoria state, South Sudan, after a critical security incident.
    • MSF cannot resume activities until the safety of our staff is assured.

    Juba – Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) has suspended all outreach activities in Yei, in Central Equatoria state, South Sudan, until further notice, following a critical security incident involving MSF staff and staff from a partner organisation on Friday, 20 September 2024. We strongly condemns this attack against health workers in an area where people already face difficulty accessing healthcare.

    “We are deeply shocked by this unacceptable attack on the provision of neutral and impartial humanitarian assistance for communities in need,” says Iqbal Huda, MSF’s Head of Mission in South Sudan. “As a result of the attack, our outreach movements and activities to communities surrounding Yei and Morobo have been suspended until we can have concrete guarantees that medical humanitarian services and lifesaving work can continue unhindered in the area.”

    At approximately 3 pm on Friday, two clearly marked MSF vehicles were coming back to the town of Yei from an outreach activity, when along the road unknown armed men forced our staff to disembark from their vehicles at gunpoint, while looting MSF and the staff’s personal belongings. The armed men then forcibly took an MSF staff member and a staff member of a partner organisation to the bush, while letting the two remaining MSF staff members, the drivers, proceed with their vehicles.

    While the two abducted staff were safely released 24 hours later, this is the third attack on humanitarian organisations occurring around Yei in three months, pointing to a systematic attack on the provision of humanitarian aid. Until the safety of MSF activities and staff are assured, MSF cannot guarantee resumption of activities in the area.

    The real victims of these incidents are the most vulnerable people living in underserved areas, as MSF is the only provider of healthcare services in this area outside of Yei town.

    “Attacks against humanitarians and healthcare workers are unacceptable and they directly affect the provision of healthcare for communities who desperately need it. We call on all armed groups to uphold their responsibilities under international humanitarian law and respect the provision of humanitarian assistance,” says Huda.

    Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) has been working in the region that today constitutes the Republic of South Sudan since 1983. In Yei, MSF offers primary healthcare services by supporting four Ministry of Health facilities, delivering outpatient consultations, routine vaccinations, and maternal and child healthcare. MSF also conducts mobile clinics and provides community-based healthcare through the Boma Health Initiative programme in the area.

    In South Sudan, MSF teams provide a range of services including general healthcare, mental healthcare and specialist hospital care. Our mobile teams also provide health assistance to displaced people and remote communities in six of the country’s 10 states and in two administrative areas. In addition to responding to emergencies and disease outbreaks, we also carry out preventative activities, such as vaccination campaigns, seasonal malaria chemo-prevention, safe drinking water and distribution of non-food items.

    MIL OSI NGO –