Category: Entertainment

  • MIL-OSI: SBB Research Group Foundation Names August 2024 Grant Finalists: CASA Lake County, Insight Youth Outreach Blessings, Naomi Ruth Cohen Institute for Mental Health Education

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CHICAGO, Sept. 23, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The SBB Research Group Foundation recognizes three Chicago-area charities as the August 2024 finalists of its monthly grant program supporting impactful nonprofits (in alphabetical order): 

    • CASA Lake County (Vernon Hills, IL) is committed to protecting the best interests of youth experiencing abuse or neglect. By training volunteers to advocate for these children in court and the community, the organization aims to help them safely reunite with their families or find secure, permanent homes. The vision is for all children and families to thrive emotionally, mentally, and physically, with lasting connections to caring adults and a nurturing environment.
    • Insight Youth Outreach Blessings (Bellwood, IL) creates a safe and supportive environment where children can thrive by offering programs that promote physical activity, nutrition, and mental well-being. They believe that every child, regardless of socioeconomic background, should have access to healthy extracurricular activities and aim to help children develop life skills, self-confidence, and a positive outlook on life.
    • Naomi Ruth Cohen Institute for Mental Health Education (Chicago, IL) is dedicated to reducing the stigma of mental illness, which often prevents individuals, families, and communities from receiving essential support. The institute provides resources and hope to those affected by mental illness and those who support them. The institute educates the public on mental health issues, with the overarching goal of giving a voice to those living with mental illness.

    The Foundation encourages any 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization to apply for a grant at sbbrg.org/apply-for-grant. Donations are awarded to different organizations monthly.

    About the SBB Research Group Foundation 

    The SBB Research Group Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that furthers the philanthropic mission of SBB Research Group LLC (SBBRG), a Chicago-based investment management firm led by Sam Barnett, Ph.D., and Matt Aven. The Foundation provides grants to support ambitious organizations solving unmet needs with thoughtful, long-term strategies. In addition, the Foundation sponsors the SBBRG STEM Scholarship, which supports students pursuing science, technology, engineering, and mathematics degrees. 

    Contact: Erin Noonan 
    Organization: SBB Research Group Foundation 
    Email: grants@sbbrg.org 
    Phone: 1-847-656-1111 
    Website: https://www.sbbrg.org 

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: USNS Lucy Stone Christened as MSC’s Newest Fleet Replenishment Oiler

    Source: United States Navy

    SAN DIEGO — The fleet replenishment oiler USNS Lucy Stone (T-AO 209), the Military Sealift Command’s newest ship, was christened during a ceremony at the General Dynamics NASSCO shipyard in San Diego, Calif., today.

    The event was attended by Secretary of the Navy, Carlos Del Toro; Meredith Berger, Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Energy, Installations and Environment; Vice Adm. John F. G. Wade, commander, U.S. THIRD Fleet; Vice Adm. Jeffrey Jablon, Deputy Chief of Naval Operations for Installations and Logistics; Rear Adm. Thomas J. Anderson, Program Executive Officer, Ships; Capt. Micah Murphy, commander, Military Sealift Command Pacific; U.S. Merchant Marine Capt. Lee Apsley, Stone’s civil service master; as well as executives and employees of NASSCO San Diego.

    The ship honors American suffragist Lucy Stone, who joined other notable advocates such as Elizabeth Cady Stanton, Susan B. Anthony, Ernestine Rose, and Antoinette Brown Blackwell to petition for suffrage and abolition in the 19th century. Her efforts as a founder of the Women’s National Loyal League were essential to the passage of the Thirteenth Amendment abolishing slavery.

    “In choosing to name this ship after Lucy Stone, Secretary Mabus and Secretary Berger knew the legacy of this remarkable woman, who dedicated her life to freedom and to equality for all, “said Deborah Donnley Simmons, Stone co-sponsor. “Her legacy will continue to be told, as this ship sails throughout the world.”

    The official christening moment happened when the ship’s co-sponsors, Alicia Aadnesen
    Deborah Donley Simmons broke a bottle of champagne over the ship’s bow with the words, “For the United States of America, I christen you the USNS Lucy Stone. May God bless this ship and all who sail on her.” Following the christening moment, the ship blew her horns and slid down the rails, amid a fanfare of music from the Navy Band Southwest and red, white and blue streamers.

    “The enduring legacy of Lucy Stone as a trailblazer in the women’s rights movement remains an indelible source of inspiration today,” said Mabus. “How extraordinary that all of these years later, today, our United States Navy is headed-up by the Chief of Naval Operations, a female by the name of Adm. Lisa Franchetti. It would not have been possible if it had not been for the efforts of Lucy Stone.”

    The 746-foot Stone is the fifth ship in the new John Lewis-class previously known as the TAO(X). This class of oilers has the ability to carry 162,000 barrels of diesel ship fuel, aviation fuel and dry stores cargo. The upgraded oiler is built with double hulls to protect against oil spills and strengthened cargo and ballast tanks and will be equipped with a basic self-defense capability. The Lewis-class of oilers will replace the current Kaiser Class fleet replenishment oilers as they age out of the MSC fleet. The ship will be manned by a crew of about 100 civilian Merchant Mariners, sailing under the operational control of MSC.

    “In order to maintain sustained operations at sea, our Navy warships rely on Military Sealift Command’s Combat Logistics Fleet,” said Mabus. “Despite the challenges posed by shortfalls in numbers, MSC continues to play a vital roll in supporting our nation’s logistics readiness. I thank all of our Merchant Mariners for answering our national call to maritime service, and for their ongoing efforts to recruit and maintain our critical capabilities!”

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI: Mark Cuban Foundation Brings Free AI Bootcamp to New York City Teens

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, Sept. 23, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Time is running out to apply to participate in the Mark Cuban Foundation Artificial Intelligence (AI) Bootcamp. Applications for the no-cost bootcamp, held in New York, are closing September 30.

    The Mark Cuban Foundation is bringing the only artificial intelligence (AI) camp of its kind, free of charge, to high school students in New York. With a custom and highly relevant curriculum focused on teaching students about the latest developments in the world of AI and Generative AI, the camp will provide the tools to make these technologies work for them and promises to educate, inspire and fuel the next generation of AI professionals.

    The program aims to provide students with a foundational understanding of artificial intelligence and its applications to future careers. Students can select from six tracks: healthcare, arts and entertainment, business and entrepreneurship, computer science, sports science, or education and career readiness. Driven by the belief that fostering interest in AI at a young age is crucial for preparing the next generation for their future, the AI Bootcamps are introductory and accessible to students in 9-12 grade with an interest in technology. Students do not need any familiarity with computer science or programming to attend.

    This free AI Bootcamp is hosted for underserved high school students with a transparent focus on recruiting girls, students of color, first generation college students, and those from low to moderate income households.

    “As AI continues to become an undeniable force in all of our lives, it’s crucial that we open the door to this knowledge, especially to young people who want to explore it,” said Mark Cuban, founder. “While technology expands and becomes more advanced, it becomes more critical that we ensure our students are prepared when they apply for schools or jobs in the future. This bootcamp will offer an avenue to explore this fascinating field of technology to any student, no matter their means.”

    This year’s bootcamp, taking place in New York on November 2nd, 9th, and 16th, will provide students with lunch and a snack, transportation assistance, and technology equipment during bootcamp.

    There is just one week left until the September 30 deadline. Do not miss your chance—submit your application now, as spaces are limited.

    Apply for the bootcamp at: markcubanai.org.

    Watch Mark Cuban’s message about Mark Cuban Foundation’s AI bootcamps and access the full media kit here.

    To learn more, visit markcubanai.org.

    Media Contact:
    Bishop.wash@markcubanai.org

    This bootcamp is facilitated with support from Mark Cuban Foundation AI Bootcamp Program’s media partner, Notified, a globally trusted technology partner for investor relations, public relations and marketing professionals.

    About Mark Cuban Foundation’s AI Bootcamp Initiative
    The Mark Cuban Foundation is a 501(c)(3) private non-profit led by entrepreneur and investor Mark Cuban. The AI Bootcamps Program at MCF seeks to inspire young people with emerging technology so that they can create more equitable futures for themselves and their communities. Over 3 consecutive Saturdays underserved 9th -12th grade students learn what AI is and isn’t, where they already interact with AI in their own lives, the ethical implications of AI systems, and much more. Learn more about the no-cost AI Bootcamp program at markcubanai.org.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Rapid7 Adds Extended Ecosystem Support of Third-Party Detections to Managed Detection and Response

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BOSTON, Sept. 23, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Rapid7, Inc. (NASDAQ: RPD), a leader in extended risk and threat detection, today announced the addition of third-party detections for defense in-depth with Managed Threat Complete (MTC), the company’s Managed Detection and Response (MDR) solution. Rapid7’s global service now includes coverage for CrowdStrike Falcon, SentinelOne Singularity Endpoint, and Microsoft Defender for Endpoint.

    Native endpoint security has always been part of Rapid7’s defense-in-depth approach. Now, by enriching and layering SOC expertise with third-party endpoint detections, MTC delivers a more comprehensive defense of the customer’s extended ecosystem.

    Rapid7’s MDR service goes beyond endpoint telemetry alone and leverages its leading next-gen SIEM foundation to integrate and correlate diverse telemetry across the attack surface – endpoint, network, user, cloud. This wider coverage, combined with Rapid7’s expertise, provides critical context and faster investigations for more effective response for the modern attack surface. The additional endpoint support announced today builds on Rapid7’s strategy to provide modern attack surface monitoring across endpoint, cloud service providers, identity and access management, and network security solutions.

    “Our leading next-gen SIEM allows Rapid7 to process broad telemetry and was purpose built to operationalize our SOC expertise to deliver unparallelled clarity for our MDR service,” said Craig Adams, chief product officer at Rapid7. “Adding third-party detection support to Managed Threat Complete deepens our visibility across a customer’s environment, which in turn helps us respond even more quickly and efficiently to threats.”

    With the addition of extended ecosystem monitoring, customers can connect the supported tools in their environment to MDR for triage, investigation, and response. Rapid7’s SOC analysts now can better serve customers with:

    • Enhanced Visibility: With coverage for third-party event sources, the need to manually normalize information across a customer’s technical environment is eliminated, saving time and giving teams confidence that their full attack surface is covered.
    • Reduced Noise: Detect threats across all phases of the MITRE ATT&CK framework and modern threat landscape – without more noise. Realize high efficacy detections with operationalized threat intelligence and expertise.
    • Optimized Response: With broader telemetry and correlation across endpoint, network, identity and cloud, Rapid7’s incident response analysts can respond faster and more accurately to threats to eradicate them from customers’ environments.

    To learn more about Rapid7’s Managed Detection and Response service and its Managed Threat Complete with extended ecosystem monitoring, visit https://www.rapid7.com/services/managed-detection-and-response-mdr.

    About Rapid7
    Rapid7, Inc. (NASDAQ: RPD) is on a mission to create a safer digital world by making cybersecurity simpler and more accessible. We empower security professionals to manage a modern attack surface through our best-in-class technology, leading-edge research, and broad, strategic expertise. Rapid7’s comprehensive security solutions help more than 11,000 global customers unite cloud risk management with threat detection and response to reduce attack surfaces and eliminate threats with speed and precision. For more information, visit our website, check out our blog, or follow us on LinkedIn or X.

    Rapid7 Media Relations
    Kelly Crummey
    Corporate Communications
    press@rapid7.com 
    (617) 921-8089

    Rapid7 Investor Contact
    Elizabeth Chwalk
    Sr. Director, Investor Relations
    investors@rapid7.com 
    (617) 865-4277

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Mark Cuban Foundation Brings Free AI Bootcamp to Raleigh-Durham Teens

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    RALEIGH-DURHAM, N.C., Sept. 23, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Time is running out to apply to participate in the Mark Cuban Foundation Artificial Intelligence (AI) Bootcamp. Applications for the no-cost bootcamp, held in Raleigh, are closing September 30.

    The Mark Cuban Foundation is bringing the only artificial intelligence (AI) camp of its kind, free of charge, to Raleigh-Durham high school students. With a custom and highly relevant curriculum focused on teaching students about the latest developments in the world of AI and Generative AI, the camp will provide the tools to make these technologies work for them and promises to educate, inspire and fuel the next generation of AI professionals.

    The program aims to provide students with a foundational understanding of artificial intelligence and its applications to future careers. Students can select from six tracks: healthcare, arts and entertainment, business and entrepreneurship, computer science, sports science, or education and career readiness. Driven by the belief that fostering interest in AI at a young age is crucial for preparing the next generation for their future, the AI Bootcamps are introductory and accessible to students in 9-12 grade with an interest in technology. Students do not need any familiarity with computer science or programming to attend.

    This free AI Bootcamp is hosted for underserved high school students with a transparent focus on recruiting girls, students of color, first generation college students, and those from low to moderate income households.

    “As AI continues to become an undeniable force in all of our lives, it’s crucial that we open the door to this knowledge, especially to young people who want to explore it,” said Mark Cuban, founder. “While technology expands and becomes more advanced, it becomes more critical that we ensure our students are prepared when they apply for schools or jobs in the future. This bootcamp will offer an avenue to explore this fascinating field of technology to any student, no matter their means.”

    This year’s bootcamp, taking place in Raleigh on November 2nd, 9th, and 16th, will provide students with lunch and a snack, transportation assistance, and technology equipment during bootcamp.

    There is just one week left until the September 30 deadline. Do not miss your chance—submit your application now, as spaces are limited.

    Apply for the bootcamp at: markcubanai.org.

    Watch Mark Cuban’s message about Mark Cuban Foundation’s AI bootcamps and access the full media kit here.

    To learn more, visit markcubanai.org.

    Media Contact:
    Bishop.wash@markcubanai.org

    This bootcamp is facilitated with support from Mark Cuban Foundation AI Bootcamp Program’s media partner, Notified, a globally trusted technology partner for investor relations, public relations and marketing professionals.

    About Mark Cuban Foundation’s AI Bootcamp Initiative
    The Mark Cuban Foundation is a 501(c)(3) private non-profit led by entrepreneur and investor Mark Cuban. The AI Bootcamps Program at MCF seeks to inspire young people with emerging technology so that they can create more equitable futures for themselves and their communities. Over 3 consecutive Saturdays underserved 9th -12th grade students learn what AI is and isn’t, where they already interact with AI in their own lives, the ethical implications of AI systems, and much more. Learn more about the no-cost AI Bootcamp program at markcubanai.org.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Mark Cuban Foundation Brings Free AI Bootcamp to Richardson Teens

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    RICHARDSON, Texas, Sept. 23, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Time is running out to apply to participate in the Mark Cuban Foundation Artificial Intelligence (AI) Bootcamp. Applications for the no-cost bootcamp, held in Richardson, are closing September 30.

    The Mark Cuban Foundation is bringing the only artificial intelligence (AI) camp of its kind, free of charge, to high school students in Richardson. With a custom and highly relevant curriculum focused on teaching students about the latest developments in the world of AI and Generative AI, the camp will provide the tools to make these technologies work for them and promises to educate, inspire and fuel the next generation of AI professionals.

    The program aims to provide students with a foundational understanding of artificial intelligence and its applications to future careers. Students can select from six tracks: healthcare, arts and entertainment, business and entrepreneurship, computer science, sports science, or education and career readiness. Driven by the belief that fostering interest in AI at a young age is crucial for preparing the next generation for their future, the AI Bootcamps are introductory and accessible to students in 9-12 grade with an interest in technology. Students do not need any familiarity with computer science or programming to attend.

    This free AI Bootcamp is hosted for underserved high school students with a transparent focus on recruiting girls, students of color, first generation college students, and those from low to moderate income households.

    “As AI continues to become an undeniable force in all of our lives, it’s crucial that we open the door to this knowledge, especially to young people who want to explore it,” said Mark Cuban, founder. “While technology expands and becomes more advanced, it becomes more critical that we ensure our students are prepared when they apply for schools or jobs in the future. This bootcamp will offer an avenue to explore this fascinating field of technology to any student, no matter their means.”

    This year’s bootcamp, taking place in Richardson on November 2nd, 9th, and 16th, will provide students with lunch and a snack, transportation assistance, and technology equipment during bootcamp.

    There is just one week left until the September 30 deadline. Do not miss your chance—submit your application now, as spaces are limited.

    Apply for the bootcamp at: markcubanai.org.

    Watch Mark Cuban’s message about Mark Cuban Foundation’s AI bootcamps and access the full media kit here.

    To learn more, visit markcubanai.org.

    Media Contact:
    Bishop.wash@markcubanai.org

    This bootcamp is facilitated with support from Mark Cuban Foundation AI Bootcamp Program’s media partner, Notified, a globally trusted technology partner for investor relations, public relations and marketing professionals.

    About Mark Cuban Foundation’s AI Bootcamp Initiative
    The Mark Cuban Foundation is a 501(c)(3) private non-profit led by entrepreneur and investor Mark Cuban. The AI Bootcamps Program at MCF seeks to inspire young people with emerging technology so that they can create more equitable futures for themselves and their communities. Over 3 consecutive Saturdays underserved 9th -12th grade students learn what AI is and isn’t, where they already interact with AI in their own lives, the ethical implications of AI systems, and much more. Learn more about the no-cost AI Bootcamp program at markcubanai.org.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Africa: President calls on all stakeholders to help preserve SA’s heritage

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    President Cyril Ramaphosa has called on business and other stakeholders to work with government to protect and conserve historical, cultural and natural heritage sites, particularly in marginalised communities.

    President Ramaphosa made the call in his weekly newsletter to the nation on Monday, ahead of the Heritage Day celebrations.

    South Africa will on Tuesday observe Heritage Day, where citizens will celebrate the rich cultural tapestry that makes up the nation. 

    President Ramaphosa noted that while heritage preservation is a responsibility of government, the private sector, corporate sponsors, philanthropists, heritage organisations and other stakeholders also have an important role to play in ensuring these legacies are safeguarded for future generations. 

    “Private sector support for heritage preservation is uneven. While some high-profile heritage sites like Robben Island, the Mandela House in Soweto, Constitution Hill, and others receive donor funding, other less prominent institutions, events, and initiatives struggle to obtain support. 

    “As a result, many important sites of memory have fallen into disrepair. This is a wasted opportunity, because a number of these sites could stimulate local economies and provide work opportunities to the communities in which they are situated,” President Ramaphosa said.

    The President said protecting and conserving historical, cultural, and natural heritage sites was also vitally important for nation-building and national reconciliation. 

    “On this Heritage Day, I call on business and other stakeholders to work with government in the cause of heritage preservation, particularly in marginalised communities. There is already laudable work being done in this regard. 

    “By working together as government, business, and society, we can use our national heritage to uplift communities, create opportunities and make us all proud to be South African,” the President said.

    Highlighting the significance of Heritage Day, President Ramaphosa noted that having emerged from a painful apartheid past where indigenous customs, traditions and languages were denigrated and marginalised, Heritage Day is one of the most important events on the national calendar. 

    “It is a valuable opportunity for cross-cultural exchange and for building bridges of tolerance and understanding between races and different ethnic groups. I have always found it heartwarming to see how South Africans from all walks of life celebrate Heritage Day in their communities, schools, workplaces, places of worship and institutions of higher learning. 

    “It has become a regular facet of Heritage Day to see South Africans share their traditions, cuisine, dress, music, and other forms of cultural expression with their compatriots. Beyond the benefits for cultural self-expression, pride and nation-building, heritage preservation is an important driver of economic growth, job creation and sustainable development,” President Ramaphosa said. 

    South Africa is perfectly placed to use its rich cultural and natural heritage to promote economic growth. 

    “As one of the world’s most mega biodiverse countries, South Africa’s natural heritage attracts tourists from around the world, supporting local job creation and investment in natural resource infrastructure. By way of example, in December 2023 alone, there were more than 400 000 visitors to sites like the Table Mountain National Park and Robben Island,” the President highlighted. 

    Coupled with this, he said, South Africa has an abundance of historical sites across the country that span the pre-colonial, colonial, apartheid, and democratic eras. 

    “These sites are not just important for tourism. They are also sites of memory and monuments to the past that serve to educate the younger generation of South Africans,” President Ramaphosa said. 

    To preserve the country’s rich heritage, the President underscored a need to do more to attract young South Africans to careers and opportunities in the sector. 

    He said through the Presidential Employment Stimulus, the National Heritage Council and National Arts Council has provided unemployed young people with work opportunities in film and digital media production, cultural project management, storytelling, language preservation and as museum guides.

    Government will commemorate Heritage Day at Meqheleng Stadium in Ficksburg, in the Free State, under the theme: “Celebrating the lives of our heroes and heroines who laid down their lives for our freedom”.

    This year’s theme puts a spotlight on South Africa’s liberation movements who received various forms of solidarity and support from neighbouring countries during the liberation struggle. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa

  • MIL-OSI: EquityZen Adds to Senior Executive team – Hires Justin Howell as COO and promotes Jean Brandolini Lamb to CMO

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, Sept. 23, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — EquityZen, an online marketplace for company-approved sales of pre-IPO employee shares, today announces the appointment of Justin Howell as Chief Operating Officer. Howell’s appointment marks a significant milestone for EquityZen as it accelerates its mission of bringing “private markets to the public” for investors and shareholders on its fintech platform. 

    Howell will oversee daily operations and will report to EquityZen CEO, Atish Davda. Before joining EquityZen, Justin founded and led Rize Money, Inc., a pioneering embedded payments platform that provided payment infrastructure and risk management capabilities to fintechs and other technology companies seeking to integrate innovative financial products into their existing user experiences. Under his leadership, Rize was successfully acquired by Fifth Third Bank, where he served as Senior Vice President and oversaw the integration of Rize’s infrastructure into Newline, Fifth Third’s embedded payments division, allowing Fifth Third to win enterprise-scale clients like Stripe and Trustly. 

    “Throughout my career I have been on a mission to transform financial services through technology,” said EquityZen’s newly appointed COO, Justin Howell. “As an early investor in EquityZen and a long-time client, I am thrilled to be working with the leadership team at EquityZen to help bring greater access to alternative markets.”

    Howell’s career spans over 20 years with various roles at Bain & Company, Bain Capital, Soleil Securities and Perry Capital, where he gained experience in strategy, operations, and investment across both startups and Fortune 100 companies before founding Rize. His passion for building impactful companies extends to sectors such as personal finance, greentech, education and media & entertainment. Justin holds a Bachelor’s degree from Harvard University and an MBA from The Wharton School. He actively contributes to the entrepreneurial community as a mentor, advisor and board member.

    Jean Brandolini Lamb has spent two years as EquityZen’s head of marketing before being promoted to Chief Marketing Officer. 

    “It’s been a pleasure to be part of EquityZen’s advancement as we see interest in our category and company grow. I look forward to working even more deeply with the leadership team to focus on our customers and the opportunities ahead of our thriving business,” said Jean Brandolini Lamb, EquityZen’s new CMO. 

    Jean joined EquityZen as head of marketing in 2022. Over the last 20+ years, Jean has led marketing teams at global financial services and technology companies including J.P. Morgan, TIAA, SAP and Hewlett Packard Enterprise. She holds a Bachelor’s degree from NYU and an MA from Columbia University. 

    “Justin is an invaluable addition to our team given his experience as a seasoned entrepreneur, business strategist and his proven track record in scaling businesses. His deep understanding of our business, financial technology and how to operate nimbly in a highly regulated industry will be instrumental as we continue to innovate and transform our pre-IPO platform,” said Atish Davda, CEO of EquityZen. “Jean joined to lead marketing two years ago and expanded her purview to also lead funds, research and customer experience in her tenure. With this promotion, she brings her valued voice and insight into our customers to the senior executive team. Our goal at EquityZen is to democratize access to investing in the private markets and I look forward to both of their contributions at our company,” he added.

    About EquityZen

    Since 2013, the EquityZen marketplace has made it easy to buy and sell shares in the private companies shaping the future. EquityZen brings together investors and shareholders, providing liquidity to early shareholders and private market access to accredited investors. With low investment minimums through our funds and with more than 41,000 private placements completed across 450+ companies, EquityZen leads the way in delivering “Private Markets for the Public.” 

    Media Contact

    Deborah Kostroun, Zito Partners

    +1 (201) 403-8185

    deborah@zitopartners.com

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at
    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/946c4fa0-0b3d-4fb1-ad69-92656e2711ca
    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/24305c18-3024-4999-be01-12e6d1ecd213

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Sprout Social Deepens Commitment to Public Sector by Partnering With Carahsoft as a NASPO-Approved Vendor for Government Agencies

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CHICAGO, Sept. 23, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Sprout Social (Nasdaq: SPT), an industry-leading provider of cloud-based social media management software, today announced their publishing, engagement, customer care, advocacy, and AI-powered business intelligence solutions have been added to the National Association of State Procurement Officials (NASPO) ValuePoint Cloud Solutions Contract held by Carahsoft Technology Corp., The Trusted Government IT Solutions Provider®. The contract enables Carahsoft and its reseller partners to provide Sprout Social’s products to participating state and local government agencies.

    NASPO ValuePoint Cloud Solutions Contract is a cooperative purchasing program facilitating public procurement solicitations and agreements using a lead-state model. The program provides the highest standard of excellence in public cooperative contracting. By leveraging the leadership and expertise of all states and the purchasing power of their public entities, NASPO ValuePoint Cloud Solutions delivers the highest valued, reliable and competitively sourced contracts, offering public entities outstanding pricing.

    “Social media has become a vital tool for government agencies to engage with the public and deliver timely, transparent communication,” said Ryan Barretto, President and incoming CEO, Sprout Social. “Our partnership with Carahsoft and NASPO ensures Sprout customers in the public sector can work more efficiently, create more time for citizen engagement and confidently demonstrate the value of social.”

    Sprout takes billions of social conversations from across the major social networks and brings them together in seconds, surfacing rich insights, building comprehensive dashboards and powering intelligent automations. With the addition of Sprout Social solutions to NASPO, government agencies may now purchase the platform alongside other approved technologies, all from one contract offered by Carahsoft.

    “Carahsoft is excited to announce that Sprout Social’s cloud-based social media management platforms are now available to NASPO members,” said Craig P. Abod, Carahsoft President. “The inclusion of Sprout Social in NASPO’s offerings expands the range of digital communication solutions available to State and Local agencies. Carahsoft is committed to helping NASPO members enhance their social media management through collaboration with our resellers. With Sprout Social now part of NASPO, customers can more effectively communicate and serve their communities.”

    Learn more about Sprout Social here.

    About Sprout Social
    Sprout Social is a global leader in social media management and analytics software. Sprout’s intuitive platform puts powerful social data into the hands of more than 30,000 brands so they can deliver smarter, faster business impact. Named the #1 Best Software Product by G2’s 2024 Best Software Award, Sprout offers comprehensive publishing and engagement functionality, customer care, influencer marketing, advocacy, and AI-powered business intelligence. Sprout’s software operates across all major social media networks and digital platforms. For more information about Sprout Social (NASDAQ: SPT), visit sproutsocial.com.

    Social Media Profiles:
    www.twitter.com/SproutSocial
    www.twitter.com/SproutSocialIR
    www.facebook.com/SproutSocialInc
    www.linkedin.com/company/sprout-social-inc-/
    www.instagram.com/sproutsocial

    Contact
    Media:
    Layla Revis
    Email: pr@sproutsocial.com
    Phone: (866) 878-3231

    Investors:
    Lexi Johnson
    Twitter: @SproutSocialIR
    Email: investors@sproutsocial.com
    Phone: (312) 528-9166

    About Carahsoft
    Carahsoft Technology Corp. is The Trusted Government IT Solutions Provider, supporting Public Sector organizations across Federal, State and Local Government agencies and Education and Healthcare markets. As the Master Government Aggregator® for our vendor partners, we deliver solutions for Customer Experience and Engagement, Cybersecurity, HR and Training Technology, MultiCloud, Big Data, Artificial Intelligence, Open Source, DevSecOps and more. Working with resellers, systems integrators and consultants, our sales and marketing teams provide industry leading IT products, services and training through hundreds of contract vehicles. Visit us at www.carahsoft.com. 

    Contact
    Mary Lange
    (703) 230-7434
    PR@carahsoft.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Des Moines Register Names VizyPay as Top Workplace for Fourth Year in a Row

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    WAUKEE, Iowa, Sept. 23, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — VizyPay, the leading payment processing fintech serving small businesses in rural America, today announces its recognition as an Iowa Top Workplace by the Des Moines Register for the fourth year in a row. The winners are selected based solely on employee feedback gathered through a third-party survey that measures employee experience and themes of employees feeling respected and supported, enabled to grow, and empowered to execute.

    VizyPay was recognized specifically for its transparent, diverse and energetic environment. The company represents a melting pot of diverse backgrounds, ideas, and perspectives, creating an atmosphere that fosters innovation and creativity. The strong culture fuels success and enables top-notch service to VizyPay merchants year after year.

    “This recognition highlights the strength of #TeamVizy. At VizyPay, we prioritize our team over everything else, fostering an environment where we build strong relationships, enjoy ourselves, and support each other’s professional growth,” said VizyPay CEO Austin Mac Nab. “Our team is more than just colleagues; we’re a family that supports each other through thick and thin. We celebrate our successes and learn from our failures, always striving to be better.”

    “Earning a Top Workplaces award is a badge of honor for companies, especially because it comes authentically from their employees,” said Eric Rubino, Energage CEO. “That’s something to be proud of. In today’s market, leaders must ensure they’re allowing employees to have a voice and be heard. That’s paramount. Top Workplaces do this, and it pays dividends.”

    For more information about VizyPay’s culture, please visit www.vizypay.com.

    About VizyPay
    Headquartered in Waukee, Iowa, VizyPay was founded in 2017 by entrepreneurs who each had either significant credit card processing experience or were previously small business owners. Their combined understanding of these different industries created the perfect cocktail for a credit card processing company that could truly look out for the business owner. Making a huge splash nationwide by being honest and simple, VizyPay ranked #1841 on the 2023 Inc. 5000 list of fastest-growing private companies in America with a three-year revenue growth of 305%.

    About Energage
    Energage is a purpose-driven company that helps organizations turn employee feedback into useful business intelligence and credible employer recognition through Top Workplaces. Built on 18 years of culture research and the results from 27 million employees surveyed across more than 70,000 organizations, Energage delivers the most accurate competitive benchmark available. With access to a unique combination of patented analytic tools and expert guidance, Energage customers lead the competition with an engaged workforce and an opportunity to gain recognition for their people-first approach to culture. For more information or to nominate your organization, visit energage.com or topworkplaces.com.

    Media Contact
    Alexis Ware
    Uproar PR for VizyPay
    aware@uproarpr.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Global: View politics critically but charitably and with good old common sense: cowboy commentator Will Rogers’ wisdom for 2024

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Steven Watts, Professor of History, University of Missouri-Columbia

    Will Rogers made a career out of making fun of politics and politicians − with a generous spirit. George Rinhart/Corbis via Getty Images

    For those trying to come to terms with a particularly tumultuous election year full of deep divisions, ideological invective and personal insults, guidance can come from a historical figure whose insights into American politics still prove useful.

    As I chronicle in my new book, “Citizen Cowboy: Will Rogers And The American People,” Will Rogers stood as perhaps the most influential commentator on public affairs in the United States a century ago. Born in Oklahoma, he had risen to fame as a cowboy humorist in vaudeville, the Ziegfeld Follies, Broadway shows and silent movies, and he earned public acclaim with his shrewd, folksy and witty observations on American life and values.

    By the 1920s, this led to a syndicated column Rogers wrote for over 300 newspapers, a stream of magazine articles and essays, and steady appearances on the national lecture circuit. He hosted a national radio program and had starring roles in several Hollywood “talkie” movies.

    Rogers became the most beloved figure in America until his death in 1935. As I discovered in my research, a flood of eulogies appeared in newspapers and magazines following his passing. Typical was this one appearing in the Minneapolis Journal: “We all loved Will Rogers … . Poets we have had, and philosophers, and humorists of note; but not one among them all so endeared to the heart of the whole people. None was ever mourned with such genuine grief, none will be so missed from our common life.”

    Especially fascinated by the nation’s politics, Rogers often trained his humor on its foibles and achievements alike. Three touchstones guided his commentary: a genial skepticism about politics as usual, a belief that politics must be subsumed within a broader perspective on life and, above all, an insistence that political discussants honor a code of civility.

    Will Rogers sends up politics and politicians in this radio broadcast from 1924.

    ‘I just … report the facts’

    Rogers got most of his laughs from skeptical jabs at the system. He gleefully skewered the “bunk” of American politics, his favorite word for politicians’ shameless hypocrisy, bombastic rhetoric, inflated egos and shady deal-making. Both Democrats and Republicans stood guilty of peddling bunk.

    “You know, the more you read and observe about this politics thing, you’ve got to admit that each party is worse than the other,” Rogers said. “It is getting so that a Republican promise is not much more to be depended on than a Democratic one. And that has always been considered the lowest form of collateral in the world.”

    The Oklahoman poked fun at the political system’s grandiose rituals and fumbling institutions. He wrote of a benumbing presidential convention in 1924 that took three weeks and 103 ballots to nominate a nonentity: “In number of population the convention is holding its own. The deaths from old age among the delegates is about offset by the birthrate.”

    Rogers pilloried governmental ineptness in Washington, D.C. One year, when Congress reconvened after a round of egregious bickering and inaction, he joked, “Let us all pray: Oh Lord, give us strength to bear that which is about to be inflicted upon us. Be merciful with them, Oh Lord, for they know not what they do.”

    He claimed a simple approach: “I don’t make jokes. I just watch the government and report the facts.”

    ‘Critical yet charitable’

    Yet Rogers insisted that political disputation should be kept in perspective. He urged his fellow citizens to avoid politicizing every public issue and instead concentrate on more meaningful endeavors – family, friends, community and work.

    Despite the dire warnings of political zealots, he said, “There is no less sickness, no less Earthquakes, no less Progress, no less inventions, no less morality, no less Christianity under one (president) than the other.”

    But for Rogers, the ultimate guarantee of stability came from the mass of workaday American citizens seeking commonsense solutions to public problems. What Rogers called the “Big Honest Majority” lived simply and worked hard, wanted a good life for their families and pursued their own version of happiness.

    The average citizen, Rogers believed, had solid judgment and “was not simple minded enough to believe that EVERYTHING is right and doesn’t appear to be cuckoo enough to believe that EVERYTHING is wrong.”

    Finally, Rogers urged an approach to politics that was critical yet charitable, principled yet magnanimous. A connoisseur of civility, he insisted that political disputants were opponents, not enemies, and that contrary viewpoints deserved respect.

    The humorist set the example: “I haven’t got it in for anybody or anything.”

    Will Rogers dining with Oklahoma Gov. Bill Murray on Feb. 3, 1931, in Oklahoma City. Murray had his usual meal of hard-boiled eggs and milk; Rogers chose fried chicken.
    Associated Press

    Surviving overwrought partisanship

    Even as he pilloried politicians’ shortcomings, he never made it personal. Despite their faults, Rogers wrote, “the Rascals, when you meet ’em face to face and know ’em, they are mighty nice fellows.” He declared famously, “I’ve joked about every prominent man in my time but I never met a man I didn’t like.”

    Determinedly nonpartisan throughout most of his career, he leaned toward the party of Franklin Roosevelt during the Great Depression while jesting, “I don’t belong to any organized political faith; I’m a Democrat.” The cowboy humorist saw politics as an endeavor for genial discussion, not a blood sport.

    Rogers’ political axioms of healthy skepticism, perspicacity and civility remain useful guides for surviving even the most sordid electioneering.

    So when you hear overwrought partisans lamenting “the end of democracy” or “we won’t have a country left anymore,” take a deep breath and consider Will Rogers’ calmer, wiser approach to presidential elections a century ago. Remember his conclusion that America won’t be ruined “no matter who is elected, so the Politicians will have to wait four more years to tell us who will ruin us then.”

    Then you can adopt his sage advice that when dealing with a political adversary, “don’t disagree with him looking at him; walk around behind him and see the way he’s looking.”

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

    ref. View politics critically but charitably and with good old common sense: cowboy commentator Will Rogers’ wisdom for 2024 – https://theconversation.com/view-politics-critically-but-charitably-and-with-good-old-common-sense-cowboy-commentator-will-rogers-wisdom-for-2024-239372

    MIL OSI – Global Reports

  • MIL-OSI: Canon U.S.A., Inc. Supports Cross-University Project

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MELVILLE, N.Y., Sept. 23, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Aligned with its commitment to supporting higher education and fostering collaboration, Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, is proud to announce its support of a collaborative project between Syracuse University and Universidad del Sagrado Corazón in San Juan, Puerto Rico through which their students created a documentary film. The project was made possible through the help of powerful technology provided by Canon1, enabling students from both universities to work together to bring their ideas to life from ideation to execution. The resulting documentary, A Tale of Two Cities, will make its debut at the upcoming Syracuse Film Festival in Syracuse, New York, showcasing the students’ unique perspectives and collaborative efforts.2

    Under the guidance of faculty members Milton Santiago at Syracuse University and Professor Harold Leonard Navarro at Universidad del Sagrado Corazón, students explored a topic of mutual regional significance. Despite the geographic distance between the two groups, they were able to seamlessly collaborate using Canon’s AMLOS (Activate My Line of Sight) solution and captured the documentary on Canon’s EOS R5C hybrid camera. Canon’s AMLOS solution facilitated real-time interaction, allowing the students to communicate in an engaging way to merge their unique perspectives and skills into a cohesive documentary project.

    “This project truly enabled our students to understand the power of collaboration,” said Santiago, an assistant professor of visual communications at Syracuse University’s renowned Newhouse School of Public Communications.

    “Despite being geographically distant, the students at Syracuse and at Sagrado were able to rally around a common goal: telling an important story while raising awareness about a timely issue,” Santiago added. “In joining forces through storytelling, the work they have created will have impact beyond our academic walls.”

    In exclusive behind-the-scenes footage, captured on Canon’s EOS R5 C camera, students reflect on how they used the AMLOS solution to collaborate seamlessly across geographic boundaries.

    A Media Snippet accompanying this announcement is available by clicking on this link.

    Additional footage shows the students working with the EOS R5 C camera to bring their documentary vision to life, highlighting the impact of Canon’s technology on their creative process.

    A Media Snippet accompanying this announcement is available by clicking on this link.

    The benefits of Canon’s technology extended beyond merely facilitating interaction. It empowered students to work together to merge their perspectives seamlessly to help them create a polished final product.

    “The success of this project demonstrates that technology is an extremely powerful tool for collaboration across academic disciplines,” said Professor Navarro. “This experience has opened the door for future projects, bringing together students and faculty from diverse backgrounds in innovative ways.”

    Students echoed this sentiment, emphasizing how the project made a profound impact on their learning experience.

    “The experience that everyone got from this project is something that will leave a lasting impact on us,” said Jennifer Wybieracki, master’s graduate student at Syracuse University. “The collaboration between multidisciplinary fields is super important as we’re able to see how different industries operate and how we all contribute to the end product.”

    “We thank Canon for providing us with the equipment that allowed us to present the reality of the community by enabling us to obtain high-quality content,” said Victor Jiménez, journalism undergraduate student at Universidad del Sagrado Corazón.

    Supporting this collaborative project underscores Canon’s ongoing commitment to fostering creativity and innovation across academic institutions.

    “At Canon, we believe that technology has the power to transcend boundaries, whether geographic, cultural, or academic,” said Shinya Fukuda, senior vice president, Corporate Planning and Communications, Canon U.S.A., Inc. “By supporting this cross-university collaboration, we’re proud to help equip the next generation of filmmakers and storytellers with the tools they need to not only share their unique perspectives but also to foster meaningful connections through creativity and innovation.”

    About Newhouse School at Syracuse University

    The S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University trains the next generation of communications leaders, preparing students to not only enter a rapidly changing media industry, but to shape its future. Called one of the “very best schools” in its field by the Accrediting Council on Education in Journalism and Mass Communications (ACEJMC) in a 2023 report, Newhouse has been lauded for providing an excellent educational experience due to its outstanding students, faculty, staff, leadership and facilities, as well as financial stability and a deep curriculum. Newhouse is committed to expanding academic excellence through research and creative activity, as well as community engagement and professional opportunities to help students develop their skill set outside the classroom.

    About Universidad del Sagrado Corazón

    The Universidad del Sagrado Corazón is the oldest educational project in Puerto Rico, founded in 1880. It is located in the heart of Santurce, in the capital city of San Juan. The university offers academic programs that foster innovative thinking and creativity, helping students develop into leaders across various industries. The Ferré Rangel School of Communication is the premier institution for media and communication studies in Puerto Rico and the Caribbean. Its graduates hold leadership roles in media and communication organizations both domestically and internationally. Learn more about the Ferré Rangel School of Communication at https://www.sagrado.edu/en/communications/

    About Canon U.S.A. Inc.

    Canon U.S.A. Inc. is a leading provider of consumer, business-to-business, and industrial digital imaging solutions to the United States and to Latin America and the Caribbean markets. With approximately $29.4 billion in global revenue, its parent company, Canon Inc. as of 2023 has ranked in the top-five overall in U.S. patents granted for 38 consecutive years. Canon U.S.A. is dedicated to its Kyosei philosophy of social and environmental responsibility. To learn more about Canon, visit us at www.usa.canon.com and connect with us on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/canonusa.

    † Based on weekly patent counts issued by United States Patent and Trademark Office.

    1 Canon U.S.A., Inc. also provided limited financial support to the schools for the project.

    The views and opinions expressed in the documentary are the views and opinions of the makers thereof and do not reflect the views and opinions of Canon U.S.A.

    To learn more about the AMLOS solution, including requirements, technical specifications and compatibility information please contact your Canon Authorized Representative. Subscription to, purchase, and use of other Canon and third-party services and solutions required for set-up, sound, to see remote users, and other features. Subject to applicable Canon or third-party provider’s terms and conditions. Neither Canon Inc. nor Canon U.S.A., Inc. represents or warrants any third-party product, service, or feature referenced hereunder.

    Not responsible for typographical errors.

    Canon is a registered trademark of Canon Inc. in the United States and may also be a registered trademark or trademark in other countries. AMLOS, the AMLOS logo and Activate My Line of Sight are trademarks of Canon U.S.A., Inc. All referenced product names, and other marks, are trademarks of their respective owners.

    Contact info: Nicole Esan Niesan@cusa.canon.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Security: Murder investigation launched in Woolwich

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Statement from Detective Chief Superintendent Trevor Lawry, who is in charge of policing for Greenwich, following the fatal stabbing of a 15-year-old boy.

    “I’m very sad to say that we have launched a murder investigation following the stabbing of a teenager last night, Sunday 22 September, in Greenwich.

    “Police were called at about 6.35pm to reports of a disturbance on Eglinton Road in the Woolwich area.

    “Our officers attended and found a 15-year-old boy with a stab injury. Despite the efforts of officers and paramedics from the London Ambulance Service, sadly he died a short time later.

    “His family have been informed and are being supported by specialist officers from the Met.

    “Once again we have had to tell a child’s family that their loved one has been killed in an act of violence using a knife. Our thoughts are with them as they struggle to comprehend what has happened.

    “The fact that a 15-year-old teenager, who had his whole life ahead of him, has been taken from his family in this way, is a stark and sobering reminder of the danger of ‘zombie-style’ knives. We are committed to doing everything in our power to taking these weapons off our streets.

    “We know that this murder will also send shockwaves throughout the community and I understand the genuine concern this will create. We share those concerns.

    “You can expect to see your local officers in the area over the coming days. Please speak with them if you have any questions or need any support or advice.

    “Local teams are working closely with the specialist homicide detectives so that we can establish exactly what happened as quickly as possible. Enquiries continue at pace today.

    “We need your help to find answers the victim’s family desperately needs. Do you have any information that might help our detectives? Even the smallest detail might prove vital.

    “Were you in the area of Eglinton Road on Sunday evening around 6.30pm? Did you see anyone running from the area?

    “If you live in the area do you have any CCTV, doorbell cameras or dash cam footage? We have an online portal where you can upload images or video footage.

    “If you have useful information, please call us on 020 8721 4005 quoting Operation Baghaze.

    “Alternatively, if you are not comfortable speaking to the police you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. They will not share your personal details with the police.”

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI Economics: 5 Google TV Streamer features to try

    Source: Google

    Google TV Streamer: 5 helpful features to try

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    The Google TV Streamer is officially on shelves tomorrow for $99.99. Our all-new, 4K media streaming device is designed for you to enjoy your favorite movies and TV shows and control your compatible smart home devices. Here’s a look at five of its helpful features that let you easily find the content you want to watch, set the scene for your ideal at-home viewing experience and personalize your TV streamer to do more — like helping you find your missing TV remote yet again.

    Find what to watch next, without the stress

    Gone are the days of spending more time searching for a show than actually watching one, especially when you’re trying to get the whole family to agree! Thanks to Gemini technology, the latest Google TV features bring you full summaries, reviews and season-by-season breakdowns of some of the top movies and TV shows — which makes finding your next marathon watch that much easier.

    Google TV Streamer also uses Google AI and your personal preferences to curate content suggestions across all of your subscriptions, so you’ll always have something to watch that interests you.

    Manage your smart home with home panel

    Google TV Streamer doubles as a smart home hub, so controlling your Matter- and Thread-compatible devices from one place is effortless. You can check in on your smart home devices with the new home panel on the TV, so you can see what’s happening at the front door, dim the lights and adjust the thermostat — all from the comfort of the couch.

    You can also cast content from your phone, add it to speaker groups, control music and more directly from your TV.

    Program your remote with the new customizable button

    Know exactly what you’re looking for? The new customizable button on Google TV Streamer’s remote lets you jump in right where you left off. You can program it to switch to the home panel to control your smart home device, favorite app or another input. You’ll be able to access your preferred streaming service, gaming console or smart lighting with just one click.

    Lost your remote again? Try Find My Remote!

    If the couch cushions tend to swallow your remote, we’ve got you covered. With Google TV Streamer, we’ve added “Find my remote” for a quick and easy way to locate your remote when it seems to be hiding.

    • Simply press the button on the back of the Google TV Streamer for less than five seconds and the remote will make a beeping sound.
    • You can also ask any connected Google Assistant device, like a speaker or Pixel phone, “Hey Google, find my remote,” and the remote will then chime so you can find it.
    • Too comfortable to get off the couch? Easily access the Find My Remote feature on the Google Home app. Your remote will sound and you can get back to streaming.

    Turn your screen into art with Ambient Screensaver

    With the new Ambient Screensaver, Google TV Streamer turns your TV into bespoke art. Display family memories and favorite photos from Google Photos albums. Or to create a one-of-a-kind image, use your voice to describe what you want to generate with the help of Google AI or pick from a selection of prompts.

    Try all of these features and more with your new Google TV Streamer — available for purchase tomorrow for $99.99 from the Google Store and other third-party retailers.

    Let’s stay in touch. Get the latest news from Google in your inbox.

    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI Economics: New updates to help you do more with Google TV

    Source: Google

    New updates are coming to all Google TV devices starting today — including the new Google TV Streamer, available on September 24. From new ways to find what to watch to new ways to control your smart home, here’s a look at everything we’re launching.

    Control your smart home with Google TV

    With the new home panel on Google TV, you can control all of your compatible smart home devices — including lights, thermostats and cameras — without leaving the couch. The new doorbell notifications also allow you to see who’s at the front door without pausing what you’re watching. And, if you can’t find the remote, you can control your devices using your voice and the Google Assistant.

    Turn your TV into a personal masterpiece

    When you’re not watching your TV, you can turn your idle screen into a personalized work of art. An improved Ambient screensaver lets you create AI-generated designs or relive your favorite moments with Google Photos. To create a screensaver, simply describe your vision or go through a series of suggested prompts, then generative AI will create a one-of-a-kind image for your display. Or if you’re looking for something more sentimental, you can ask Google Assistant to display your favorite memories in Google Photos on your TV.

    Watch more of what you love

    Looking for somewhere to catch tonight’s game? The new sports page in the For You tab brings all of your sports content into one place. Quickly find live and upcoming games, catch sports commentary, browse YouTube highlights and get personalized recommendations to stay in the loop.

    And with all of the channels and subscription services out there, who couldn’t use some help deciding what to watch? Starting today, we’re bringing enhanced overviews of top movies and shows using Gemini technology. These overviews include full summaries, audience reviews and season-by-season breakdowns so you can make the perfect choice about what to watch.

    Last year, we made it even easier for you to watch live TV without breaking the bank with free built-in channels from Google TV — no downloads or subscriptions needed. Now with 150 channels to choose from, Google TV Freeplay is getting an updated channel guide so you can browse by genre and topic and quickly access free channels, including new additions like Heartland, The FBI Files and ION Plus.

    Get Google TV today

    Selection for Google TV devices is better than ever. In addition to the new Google TV Streamer, you can choose from new art TVs from Hisense and TCL and smart projectors from Vankyo, Epson and XGIMI. Google TV is also expanding to more countries including Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam and the Philippines. And we’re proud to be bringing better TV to 270 million monthly active Google TV and other Android TV OS devices.

    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Liverpool maps out masterplan to remix “Music City” status

    Source: City of Liverpool

    Liverpool City Region Mayor Steve Rotheram has announced radical plans to “remix the music sector” by embracing AI and VR to future-proof music tourism, recording and education.

    Liverpool City Council has mapped out an ambitious programme of four ground-breaking, interlinked projects which would revolutionise the industry and have a multi-million-pound economic impact for decades to come.

    The proposals are expected to be funded by private sector sources with Government support, with media giant Universal expressing their commitment to the concept.

    The four projects are:

    • The Music Futures Lab – this bespoke facility will bring together music businesses and musicians from across the creative and digital sectors to reimagine the way we all create, consume and experience music in the future. This new R&D lab would be the first of its kind in the UK, taking advantage of the opportunities AI and VR brings, and would build on – and future-proof – the incredible creative and digital sector which the city already boasts.
    • MusicFutures Cluster – a mix of academic and private sector bodies creating the talent and training pipeline to make the most of the facilities which the music lab will offer. A Creative Cluster has already been established to kickstart this R&D in bringing together the music and creative industries.
    • Immersive Liverpool – this fully immersive audio and visual visitor attraction will reimagine the way that audiences experience the music they love. A world first, this attraction will offer a rotating set of experience ‘residencies’ with the biggest music artists. Liverpool City Council is undergoing a site selection process and is in partnership with industry leaders to help develop the scheme.
    • Recording and Rehearsal space – this space would become a new rehearsal home for the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra and a leading national facility for emerging and established artists. This would be the only UK studio of its kind and capacity outside London – “the Abbey Road of the North” – and as well as boosting the city’s ability to offer recording facilities for musicians, TV, film and gaming, it would also provide first-class training, performance and rehearsal spaces all year-round for young people across the region.

    Mayor Rotheram revealed the ambitious plans at a Creative UK event as part of the Labour Party conference in the city.

    The draft business cases, funded by monies received from the DCMS, are to be presented to Government in the coming weeks with detailed plans expected to be announced in 2025 – 10 years after Liverpool was appointed a UNESCO City of Music.

    Councillor Liam Robinson, Leader of Liverpool City Council, said: “Music is the heartbeat of Liverpool and for generations it has defined the city’s global appeal. The time has come to translate that heritage into an offer that shapes our future.

    “We have ambitious plans to remix what it means to be a music city. These projects will help define and shape the next generation of talent and businesses and will increase the impact music can have on our communities and individuals from all walks of life.

    “Our ‘Music 2030’ vision harnesses ambitious thinking and focused investment to turn music into a driver of social, economic and environmental advancement, with the sector becoming the backbone for new high-paying jobs, re-energising the music tourism sector and becoming a vanguard sector for positive environmental change.

    “We have entered into a development relationship with Mercury Studios and Universal Music Group to help create the future of immersive music entertainment right here in Liverpool. The expertise and innovation of Mercury Studios will empower our own homegrown talent. This city is known for our incredible music heritage. Together, we will lean on that heritage to become the birthplace for a new form of music entertainment and create a digital future.

    “I’m delighted with the progress made to date and super excited for what is to come. I look forward to further conversations with our partners and the Government on how we can develop and deliver these projects.”

    Liverpool City Region Mayor, Steve Rotheram, said: “The Liverpool City Region has always had music running through its veins—it’s part of who we are.

    “We’re launching bold, groundbreaking projects that will remix the way music is made and experienced—right here in the heart of the UK.

    “With cutting-edge technology like AI and VR, we’re creating opportunities for the next generation, making sure that Liverpool isn’t just a city with a rich musical history, but a global leader in the music of the future.

    “This isn’t just business—it’s about giving young people the chance to thrive and putting our region back on the world stage.

    “We’re setting the standard for what a music city should be in the 21st century.”

    Culture Liverpool Director Claire McColgan said: “Liverpool is reimagining the role music plays in the regeneration of a city. By bringing musicians and the creative and digital industries closer together and building the facilities to make the most of our enviable talent pool, we believe this approach can be a driving force in positioning Liverpool as a music city remixed.

    “These projects are at a really exciting stage, and we are now starting to get a sense of their scope and potential impact which could redefine what music means to Liverpool and to the rest of the country. We’re looking at a 10 year-plan to supercharge not just our visitor economy but the way that young people get access to the best music education in the world.

    “It will give talented creative graduates a further reason to set up their business here. It’s taking music seriously as a catalyst for regeneration, both in terms of buildings and people.”

    Michael Eakin, Chief Executive of Royal Liverpool Philharmonic, said: “This centre, as part of Liverpool’s overall investment in – and development of – the music sector will be transformative for the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic and for young talent in the city. It will be a major regeneration driver in its location. It will provide economic growth for the city as part of the growing film, television and creative industries sector.

    “It will help secure the long-term sustainability of one of the country’s most important and forward-looking orchestras and music organisations. And it will make Liverpool uniquely strong in delivering true creative education opportunities in music for children and young people across our communities.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI: Karolinska Development divests its holding in the Danish dermatology company Henlez

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    STOCKHOLM, SWEDEN, September 23 2024. Karolinska Development AB (Nasdaq Stockholm: KDEV) announces the divestment of all its shares in the portfolio company Henlez ApS. Following the transaction, Karolinska Development’s investment portfolio consists of eleven holdings.

    Karolinska Development invested in Henlez ApS in 2022, in syndication with the Nordic venture capital firm Eir Ventures. Henlez is a privately held Danish dermatology company focused on hidradenitis suppurativa.

    Prior to the divestment, Karolinska Development’s ownership in Henlez amounted to 15 %.

    For further information, please contact:

    Viktor Drvota, CEO, Karolinska Development AB
    Phone: +46 73 982 52 02, e-mail: viktor.drvota@karolinskadevelopment.com 

    Johan Dighed, General Counsel and Deputy CEO, Karolinska Development AB
    Phone: +46 70 207 48 26, e-mail: johan.dighed@karolinskadevelopment.com

    TO THE EDITORS

    About Karolinska Development AB
    Karolinska Development AB (Nasdaq Stockholm: KDEV) is a Nordic life sciences investment company. The company focuses on identifying breakthrough medical innovations in the Nordic region that are developed by entrepreneurs and leadership teams. The Company invests in the creation and growth of companies that advance these assets into commercial products that are designed to make a difference to patients’ lives while providing an attractive return on investment to shareholders.

    Karolinska Development has access to world-class medical innovations at the Karolinska Institutet and other leading universities and research institutes in the Nordic region. The Company aims to build companies around scientists who are leaders in their fields, supported by experienced management teams and advisers, and co-funded by specialist international investors, to provide the greatest chance of success.

    Karolinska Development has a portfolio of eleven companies targeting opportunities in innovative treatment for life-threatening or serious debilitating diseases.

    The Company is led by an entrepreneurial team of investment professionals with a proven track record as company builders and with access to a strong global network.

    For more information, please visit www.karolinskadevelopment.com

    Attachment

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: UN Special Envoy for Road Safety to launch the UN global road safety campaign in Bosnia and Herzegovina

    Source: United Nations Economic Commission for Europe

    The UN Secretary-General’s Special Envoy for Road Safety, Jean Todt, is visiting Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, from 16 to 17 July 2024. During the visit, he will meet with key government officials, representatives of the international community, private, and public sectors in Bosnia and Herzegovina to promote road safety initiatives and advocate for enhanced measures. This aligns with the Global Plan for the Decade of Action for Road Safety 2021-2030, aiming to halve road fatalities by 2030. This silent pandemic represents a significant social and economic burden, particularly in low and middle-income countries like Bosnia and Herzegovina.

    “In addition to the human tragedy, road crashes trap countries into a vicious circle of poverty. According to the World Bank (WB 2016), the cost of road crashes represents 10% of the GDP on Bosnia and Herzegovina. Another reason to rethink mobility and to invest in road safety. Given their social and economic cost, road crashes are jeopardizing the entire sustainable development agenda,” stressed the Special Envoy Todt.

    According to the World Health Organization (WHO)’s Global Status Report on Road Safety 2023, Bosnia and Herzegovina has seen a concerning rise in road fatalities, with a mortality rate of 14 per 100,000 people, which is double the EU average.

    “Improving enforcement of traffic laws, enhancement of road infrastructure, and fostering behavioral change are crucial for reducing these alarming statistics and ensuring safer roads for everyone in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Special Envoy Todt’s visit will be instrumental in raising awareness and mobilizing support for enhanced road safety measure, which will benefit the society as a whole, particularly the overburden healthcare system, families, and victims affected by these tragedies,” stated Ingrid Macdonald, United Nations Resident Coordinator in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

    During the visit, the Special Envoy will launch the UN Global Road Safety Campaign, which aims to raise awareness of life-saving road safety measures. Launched globally in cooperation with JCDecaux Global under the motto #MakeASafetyStatement, it will run through 2025 in over 80 countries in the world, featuring safety statements from 14 global celebrities.                                            

    Support for the campaign has been given by 14 world-renowned personalities, including footballer Didier Drogba, Formula 1 driver Charles Leclerc, Oscar-winning actress and UNDP Goodwill Ambassador Michelle Yeoh, tennis player Novak Djokovic, musician Kylie Minogue, motorcycle racer Marc Marquez, supermodel Naomi Campbell, actor Patrick Dempsey, musician and inspirational leader Youssou N’Dour, actress Julie Gayet, actor Michael Fassbender, football icon Ousmane Dembélé, two-time Olympic champion Faith Kipyegon, and Formula 1 driver Mick Schumacher.                                                                                           

    Media representatives are cordially invited to cover the launch of the campaign at the press conference by Special Envoy Todt, Mayor of Sarajevo Benjamina Karić, and United Nations Resident Coordinator Ingrid Macdonald, on Wednesday, 17 July 2024 at 10:30 a.m. at the City Hall in Sarajevo. On the same day, starting at 8:30 p.m., a digital projection of the campaign will be displayed on the Eternal Flame building, in the presence of Special Envoy Todt, Mayor Karić, and United Nations Resident Coordinator Macdonald. With this event, Sarajevo will join Brussels, New York, and other capitals in the world in promoting this important campaign.

    Note to Editors

    The UN has invested heavily in road safety globally. Following the “Decade of Action for Road Safety 2011-2020”, the United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution in August 2020 for “Improving Road Safety”, which reaffirmed its commitment to halve global road deaths and injuries and provide access to safe, affordable, accessible and sustainable transport systems for all by 2030. In July 2022, the road safety community met in New York for the first-ever high-level meeting on improving global road safety at the United Nations General Assembly, unanimously adopting a text entitled: “Political declaration of the high-level meeting level on improving global road safety”.

    About the Special Envoy

    The former United Nations Secretary-General, Ban Ki-moon, appointed in 2015 Jean Todt as his Special Envoy for Road Safety. He was reconfirmed in this role by United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres, in 2017 and in 2021. In 2018, together with 14 UN organizations, the Special Envoy launched the UN Road Safety Fund (UNRSF). The Special Envoy contributes, among other things, to mobilize sustained political commitment to make road safety a priority; to advocate and raise awareness of UN legal instruments on road safety; to share established good practices in this area; to striving to generate adequate funding through strategic partnerships between the public, private and non-governmental sectors. Special Envoy brochure and Twitter account.

    MIL OSI United Nations News

  • MIL-OSI: Bumbana Nyami Announces the Launch of Its Game

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, NY, Sept. 21, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bumbana Nyami is proud to announce the launch of its “first” memecoin game “BumBar” which is built on the core values of fun, trust and growth. Bumbana Nyami is more than just a memecoin – it’s a vibrant community where everyone can join the fun and contribute to the ecosystem.

    The journey began when a group of Crypto OG friends dove into the wild and wacky world of memecoins, just for fun. Soon, they realized that they themselves knew how to have fun and be wacky: “So why don’t we create our own token?” To their surprise, the tunes of BumBana drums swept the shores and quickly caught the attention of a quirky and enthusiastic community. With their digital acumen and creative inspiration, they envisioned something truly special, like rediscovering an old wallet with 100 SOL users bought at 1 Dollar. And that’s how the spirit of Bumbana Nyami came to life. Ready to bring a splash of fun and excitement to the crypto world!

    Community Spirit

    At Bumbana Nyami they believe in the power of collaboration through community. Their community already co-created the hit song “BumBana Nights” Through their content contests, their community of gifted contributors has created countless creatives like memes, videos, and artwork. Spirits are strong and we enjoy every little piece of content.

    Now, the team has pulled out a new banana and built a first alpha version of the “BumBar” game for the community to gather input and make improvements together. Based on community feedback, they are developing the storyline and functionalities further, which will be the main foundation of the first game.

    Game and Token Utility

    Bumbana Nyami isn’t just a token – it’s users’ golden ticket to a world of fun! Their game will let users become the proud owner of a business empire of bars and nightclubs in the tropics. Plus, here’s the ALPHA:

    In BumBar, players find themselves awakening on a mysterious island with no memory of their past, armed only with an old, dusty map. The island is overgrown and filled with ruins, but there’s a sense that something important lies just beneath the surface, waiting to be uncovered. As players explore, they start small—managing a beach bar—and gradually build it into a thriving social club empire.

    Along the way, they can earn rewards through exciting mini-games, invite friends, complete in-game tasks, or in one of next versions use $BUMBANA tokens for in-game purchases and exclusive upgrades.

    Upcoming Goals & Plans:

    They plan to organize community-centric events and initiatives to foster engagement and participation. Their goal is to develop and promote interactive games to enhance community involvement and create a fun, engaging atmosphere. They will partner with influencers to amplify their reach and build a larger, more engaged community. Additionally, they aim to collaborate with other projects and promote them in the mobile game through app tasks.

    A new brand design will be launched to better represent their evolving identity. They will develop and deploy an updated, user-friendly website to improve user experience and functionality. A new game will be created and introduced on Telegram to increase user engagement and reach.

    Finally, they are working towards listing on CEXs to increase market accessibility and trading opportunities. To celebrate the launch of Bumbana 2.0, a significant real-life event will be planned and hosted. Lastly, they will recruit and onboard additional team members to enhance their development capabilities and accelerate project milestones.

    Marketing and Community Engagement

    Their marketing activities will include targeted campaigns to increase awareness and attract new community members. They will produce premium content, including videos and music, to enhance brand visibility and attract a wider audience. Developing unique characters that will be integrated into the game will strengthen storytelling and engagement.

    Don’t get left in the sand, Join the BumBar

    Ready to join the fun? Dive into the world of Bumbana Nyami today! Connect with us on Telegram, explore the exciting upcoming games and utilities we offer, and become a part of our growing community. Don’t miss out on the adventure – Bumbana Nyami awaits you.

    Social Links

    Telegram channel: https://t.me/BumbanaNyami

    X / Twitter: https://x.com/BumbanaNyami

    Contract Adress: CMMEoCR3hoXcgfEuchPUgUfwiUmj27DGJywHfFKdm6fC

    They are open to partnerships with existing projects and creators that could integrate with their ecosystem. They would love to hear about partners’ project or a creative vision that aligns with the Bumbana Nyami project.

    For Media Inquiries: Bumbana Nyami

    Email: info@bumbana.xyz

    Website: https://www.bumbana.xyz/

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: China documentary screened

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The premiere of Enchanting China, a documentary series produced by the Environment & Ecology Bureau and the Environmental Protection Department, was screened at the University of Science & Technology today.

    The series was produced in collaboration with the Ministry of Ecology & Environment’s Center for Environmental Education & Communications to mark the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China.

    The first series of Enchanting China consists of five episodes totalling 75 minutes. The episodes are “Ninety-Nine Bends of the Yellow River”, “Song of the Yangtze”, “From Desert to Forest”, “Embracing Diversity” and “Clean Air Actions”.

    The first four episodes, together with “Picturesque Bays of Hong Kong” – the first episode of Beautiful Hong Kong, a documentary series produced by the bureau – were screened at the premiere.

    Through showing the country’s achievements and contributions in environmental protection, the series aims to instil a strong sense of patriotism and help people to understand the progress being made by China, and the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government, towards ecological development and building a beautiful China.

    Speaking at the premiere, Chief Secretary Chan Kwok-ki said Enchanting China allows Hong Kong to experience the extraordinary charm of the nation and witness its major achievements and contributions in environmental protection.

    “On the first National Ecology Day last year, President Xi Jinping emphasised that ‘building an ecological civilisation is of fundamental importance for the sustainable development of the Chinese nation’”, Mr Chan said.

    Enchanting China is a meaningful way to implement the concept of ‘lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets’, and promote the construction of ecological civilisation and environmental protection education,” he added.

    The bureau’s documentary series, Beautiful Hong Kong, also consists of five episodes totalling 75 minutes. It shows the progressive environmental improvements made in Hong Kong since its return to the motherland.

    Mr Tse said “Picturesque Bays of Hong Kong” celebrates the achievements made by the Hong Kong SAR Government in environmental protection and nature conservation, adding that the city will closely collaborate with other Greater Bay Area cities to jointly set up ecological security shields to serve the bay area’s development.

    “I encourage everyone in the community to explore our picturesque bays, treasure the natural beauty of Hong Kong and work together to enhance our natural environment.”

    Enchanting China and Beautiful Hong Kong will be screened at the Space Museum and T·PARK from October. It will then be broadcast on RTHK TV 32 and uploaded online for primary and secondary schools in Hong Kong to download for broadcast.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Remarks as Prepared for Delivery by First Lady Jill  Biden at a Celebration for the Opening of “The People’s House: A White  House Experience”

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    The South Lawn
    Thank you, Fig. You inspire young people to get excited about their education, especially in STEM. We’re lucky to have you guiding the future of the White House Historical Association.
    And I’m glad to see so many Association board members with us. I know you all have had a packed schedule these past few days. Your commitment to this project warms my heart. Thank you.
    Earlier, we heard from the Suitland High School Choir. We appreciate you sharing your voices with us today.
    And thank you, Emma, JD, and Jonas, for leading us in the Pledge of Allegiance!
    We’ve also had the Armed Forces Color Guard presenting the colors, and the President’s Own Marine Band playing the beautiful music we’ve heard this afternoon. Joe and I are so grateful to you and your families for your service to our nation.
    And it’s great to see so many kids on the South Lawn. The project we’re celebrating today is for you.    
    Welcome, everyone, to the White House!
    Doorway by doorway, moment by moment, every piece of the White House is cloaked in history—whether it’s in the Cabinet Room where President Kennedy deliberated over the Cuban Missile Crisis, or the East Room where President Theodore Roosevelt once held a wrestling match.
    Kids roller skated in the room where we host heads of state, and nearby, in the Red Room, First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt held her own press conferences back when women were excluded from the President’s press briefings.
    Some guests at the White House have the chance to step inside these rooms—in fact, around 3,000 people come through these halls every day. But the reality is that many people never get that opportunity.
    Even fewer get to walk through the Rose Garden and the Oval Office. And almost no one gets to go behind the scenes to hear from the Chief Floral Designer or glimpse the upper floor of the residence.
    Until now.
    Starting Monday, an immersive learning center will be open to all.
    “The People’s House: A White House Experience” will bring new generations closer to the home behind me, sparking greater curiosity for civics education and our democracy.
    Teachers know the best way to learn is by involving all of the senses—and lingering in the little details that stand out to you.
    Right across the street, people will be able to interact and experience how our government works. 
    That makes this new space a powerful kind of classroom. Because when people learn more about our democracy, they will be more inspired to participate in it.
    At 1700 Pennsylvania Avenue, in an exact replica of the Oval Office, you can feel the gravity of sitting behind the President’s Resolute desk. You can join the intense deliberations of a Cabinet meeting. And you can get swept away by the 360-degree enchantment of a State Dinner.
    Along the way, you’ll meet people who have lived and worked here across centuries—from Cabinet Secretaries advising the President in times of war, to the chefs, ushers, and florists who work together to arrange the most intricate details of American diplomacy.
    Students will imagine themselves as public servants through interactive technology, and teachers will have dedicated spaces to bring their lesson plans to life.
    Stewart, you’ve put your whole heart and soul into “The People’s House”—and frankly, I’m not sure when you found the time to sleep! Month after month, you guided this project with careful precision and breathtaking speed.
    I’ve been a part of the process from when it was just an idea, to the final touches—and I can’t wait for everyone to see it.
    So, let’s get started. In just a moment, a group of students will load onto a bus to experience this incredible, immersive space. 
    I know it will encourage them to embrace the wonder of White House history, and inspire them to shape our nation’s future.
    Thank you, and please enjoy the celebration!

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA News: Remarks as Prepared for Delivery by First Lady Jill  Biden at a Celebration for the Opening of “The People’s House: A White  House Experience”

    Source: The White House

    The South Lawn

    Thank you, Fig. You inspire young people to get excited about their education, especially in STEM. We’re lucky to have you guiding the future of the White House Historical Association.

    And I’m glad to see so many Association board members with us. I know you all have had a packed schedule these past few days. Your commitment to this project warms my heart. Thank you.

    Earlier, we heard from the Suitland High School Choir. We appreciate you sharing your voices with us today.

    And thank you, Emma, JD, and Jonas, for leading us in the Pledge of Allegiance!

    We’ve also had the Armed Forces Color Guard presenting the colors, and the President’s Own Marine Band playing the beautiful music we’ve heard this afternoon. Joe and I are so grateful to you and your families for your service to our nation.

    And it’s great to see so many kids on the South Lawn. The project we’re celebrating today is for you.    

    Welcome, everyone, to the White House!

    Doorway by doorway, moment by moment, every piece of the White House is cloaked in history—whether it’s in the Cabinet Room where President Kennedy deliberated over the Cuban Missile Crisis, or the East Room where President Theodore Roosevelt once held a wrestling match.

    Kids roller skated in the room where we host heads of state, and nearby, in the Red Room, First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt held her own press conferences back when women were excluded from the President’s press briefings.

    Some guests at the White House have the chance to step inside these rooms—in fact, around 3,000 people come through these halls every day. But the reality is that many people never get that opportunity.

    Even fewer get to walk through the Rose Garden and the Oval Office. And almost no one gets to go behind the scenes to hear from the Chief Floral Designer or glimpse the upper floor of the residence.

    Until now.

    Starting Monday, an immersive learning center will be open to all.

    “The People’s House: A White House Experience” will bring new generations closer to the home behind me, sparking greater curiosity for civics education and our democracy.

    Teachers know the best way to learn is by involving all of the senses—and lingering in the little details that stand out to you.

    Right across the street, people will be able to interact and experience how our government works. 

    That makes this new space a powerful kind of classroom. Because when people learn more about our democracy, they will be more inspired to participate in it.

    At 1700 Pennsylvania Avenue, in an exact replica of the Oval Office, you can feel the gravity of sitting behind the President’s Resolute desk. You can join the intense deliberations of a Cabinet meeting. And you can get swept away by the 360-degree enchantment of a State Dinner.

    Along the way, you’ll meet people who have lived and worked here across centuries—from Cabinet Secretaries advising the President in times of war, to the chefs, ushers, and florists who work together to arrange the most intricate details of American diplomacy.

    Students will imagine themselves as public servants through interactive technology, and teachers will have dedicated spaces to bring their lesson plans to life.

    Stewart, you’ve put your whole heart and soul into “The People’s House”—and frankly, I’m not sure when you found the time to sleep! Month after month, you guided this project with careful precision and breathtaking speed.

    I’ve been a part of the process from when it was just an idea, to the final touches—and I can’t wait for everyone to see it.

    So, let’s get started. In just a moment, a group of students will load onto a bus to experience this incredible, immersive space. 

    I know it will encourage them to embrace the wonder of White House history, and inspire them to shape our nation’s future.

    Thank you, and please enjoy the celebration!

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Europe: ASIA/VIETNAM – “WYO4children”: a musical project that heals wounds and opens people up

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Ho Chi Minh City (Agenzia Fides) – The orphans of the home run by the Missionary sisters of Charity in the diocese of Phu Cuong, in southern Vietnam, have learned that “music heals the wounds of the heart”, said Fr. Dominic Nguyen Van Lam, a 40-year-old Vietnamese priest, to Fides, referring to a special musical initiative with orphans on the outskirts of Ho Chi Minh City. “They are children marked by suffering and the hardships of life. Music has given them back their self-confidence and joy in life, which is reflected in the relationships between them and in the not always easy relationship with the teachers and the sisters. Music is and remains a tool for human and spiritual growth that can restore the virtuous circle of love,” explains the Catholic priest who coordinates the WYO4children project as part of the Sounds of Brotherhood initiative promoted by the World Youth Orchestra (WYO) Foundation, which is being carried out this year in Vietnam thanks to the support of the Italian Cassa Depositi e Prestiti Foundation and other sponsors.As part of a cultural cooperation initiative, the project offered concrete support to orphaned and abandoned children in Vietnam, “to emphasize three fundamental values of life: friendship, brotherhood, peace,” explained Adolfo Vannucci, President of the World Youth Orchestra Foundation.At the “Home of Mother’s Love” in Binh Duong, where around 20 nuns look after a total of 80 orphaned and abandoned children and young people aged 5 to 17 from difficult family backgrounds, the young people took part in music workshops throughout the year and at the end presented the musical skills they had acquired in the last few days.Father Dominic emphasizes “the power of music, which has brought about positive changes in the children’s lives. Since they have come into contact with music and play an instrument, they are happier and the results can also be seen at school. The atmosphere in the house has become more cheerful.” “Music,” the priest continues, “builds mutual love: this path has not only helped the children to become more sensitive, both internally and in their relationships with their neighbors; it has also helped me, the teachers and the sisters to rediscover the joy of love and care when we share our time with them.” “The Missionaries of Charity confirm how much the children’s lives have improved, especially because everyone is now smiling. Music was a means of bringing back smiles and openness to love God and neighbour,” the priest concluded.In the diocese of Phu Cuong, which has around 165,000 Catholics in a population of more than 4 million people, the Catholic community is very keen on charitable and social activities. It works to help disadvantaged or poor people and provides scholarships to poor students, an initiative that the local bishop Joseph Nguyen Tan Tuoc wanted to extend to the “Home of Mother’s Love”. This enables the children to attend school for free. The local church provides accommodation and care for children of ethnic minorities from remote areas and works to improve their material and spiritual life. The “Wyo4children” project is part of this framework.The World Youth Orchestra, which has 23 years of musical and social activity, is present in 75 countries, has 300 international partners, including universities and music academies, and has involved more than 3,500 talented young musicians worldwide. (PA) (Agenzia Fides, 21/9/2024)

    Share:

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Prime Minister Justin Trudeau participates in a meeting of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals Advocates group

    Source: Government of Canada – Prime Minister

    Today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau participated virtually in a meeting of the United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Advocates group, convened by the Secretary-General of the UN, António Guterres.

    Prime Minister Trudeau and the Prime Minister of Barbados, Mia Mottley, co-chaired the meeting and welcomed four new SDG Advocates to the group, including the award-winning Canadian entertainer and founder of Unicorn Island Fund, Lilly Singh. 

    During the meeting, Secretary-General Guterres underscored the importance of taking collective action toward achieving the SDGs. The Advocates noted the challenges many countries around the globe are facing and exchanged ideas to increase momentum toward a more peaceful, equal, and healthy future. 

    The Prime Minister highlighted Canada’s commitment toward achieving the SDGs around the world, including as Co-Chair of the SDG Stimulus Leaders Group, which promotes increased access to financing for emerging economies and developing countries. 

    In line with the UN SDG Stimulus, the Prime Minister spoke about Canada’s inclusion of climate-resilient debt clauses to respond to the borrowing needs of emerging economies, Canada’s recent purchase of $274 million in hybrid capital from the World Bank to enable $1.8 billion in additional lending to developing countries, and Canada’s $720 million investment in FinDev Canada’s new concessional finance facility to help mobilize additional capital for development, including from the private sector. He also underscored the role that investments in gender equality and climate action have in accelerating progress toward all SDGs.

    The Prime Minister and fellow SDG Advocates agreed on the importance of raising awareness of the SDGs and taking ambitious action to achieve them. They agreed to continue this work in the week ahead at the Summit of the Future and the UN General Assembly.

    Associated Links

    MIL OSI Canada News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Red flags hoisted at Deep Water Bay Beach and Big Wave Bay Beach

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Attention TV/radio announcers:

    Please broadcast the following as soon as possible:
     
         Here is an item of interest to swimmers.
     
         The Leisure and Cultural Services Department announced today (September 22) that according to the Beach Water Quality Forecast System of the Environmental Protection Department (www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/environmentinhk/water/beach_quality/forecast_system.html), the Beach Water Quality Forecast Index for Deep Water Bay Beach and Big Wave Bay Beach in Southern District, Hong Kong Island is 4, which means the predicted water quality at these beaches is “Very Poor” due to potential transient water quality fluctuations caused by heavy rain. The red flags have been hoisted, and beachgoers are advised not to enter the water to safeguard their health.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Security: Meadow Lake — Meadow Lake RCMP respond to fatal ATV collision

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    On September 21, 2024 at approximately 4:15 a.m., a Meadow Lake RCMP officer observed two individuals operating an ATV without wearing helmets in Meadow Lake, SK.

    The officer activated their emergency lights in an attempt to stop the ATV but it continued at a high rate of speed on Highway #55 towards Flying Dust First Nation. The officer didn’t pursue, deactivated their emergency equipment and observed the ATV turning south off the highway where it subsequently struck the ditch.

    The officer immediately responded. One of the occupants was unresponsive and EMS was called to the scene. Life-saving measures were attempted; however, the individual was declared deceased by EMS. She has been identified as a 14-year-old female from Flying Dust First Nation. Her family has been notified. The second occupant reported minor injuries and was treated by EMS on scene.

    Meadow Lake RCMP continues to investigate with the assistance of the Saskatchewan Coroners Service.

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI Australia: UPDATE #3: Concern for Welfare – Missing person – Tennant Creek

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Northern Territory Police have called off the search for missing person Mr M. Graham after locating human remains this afternoon.

    Mr Graham was last seen by family members on Monday morning after leaving in a silver Ford vehicle.  The vehicle was located some distance from Tennant Creek on Tuesday night and a concentrated search effort was launched on Wednesday.

    Police utilised motorcycle, All Terrain Vehicles (ATVs), mounted patrols, a cadaver dog, drone and a helicopter to supplement the foot search of the rough terrain for Mr Graham.

    Formal identification is still required, however, Northern Territory police are confident the remains are that of the missing person. 

    The death is not being treated as suspicious.

    Whilst it is a sad day for the family, they are grateful that his remains have been located.  The family has expressed thanks to the police and volunteers who searched for Mr M. Graham.

    Northern Territory Police would like to thank all the volunteers who assisted in the search and to those who provided police valuable information. 

    Police would also like to thank the members of Norforce Centre Squadron who assisted during the search.

    MIL OSI News

  • MIL-OSI China: Myanmar to showcase 84 booths at 21st China-ASEAN Expo

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Myanmar will showcase 84 booths at the 21st China-ASEAN Expo in Nanning, south China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, from Sept. 24 to 28, the state-run Myanmar Radio and Television reported on Sunday.

    The booths will display a variety of products, including rice, Arabica coffee, aquatic products, fruits, tea, spices, woodwork, handicrafts, and gems, the report said.

    The expo aims to strengthen friendships and trade benefits, promote the development of the version 3.0 China-ASEAN Free Trade Area and boost high-quality development of the China-ASEAN region, it added.

    More than 100 people, including businesspeople and officials from the National University of Culture and Arts in Yangon, will participate in the event, the report said.

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Eastern District Office’s event postponed

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Eastern District Office’s event postponed
    Eastern District Office’s event postponed
    *****************************************

    Attention TV/radio announcers: Please broadcast the following as soon as possible and repeat it at suitable intervals:    Due to heavy rain, the “Eastern District Drone Show cum Variety Show to Celebrate the 75th Anniversary of the Founding of the People’s Republic of China” organised by the Eastern District Office together with the Hong Kong Island Federation and the Hong Kong Eastern District Community Association originally scheduled to be held at Siu Sai Wan Sports Ground at 7pm today (September 22) will be postponed to October 2 (Wednesday).       Participants who have obtained tickets can join the event on that day with the same ticket. Location and time for the event remains unchanged. The programme of the event will be adjusted.

     
    Ends/Sunday, September 22, 2024Issued at HKT 17:46

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI China: Myanmar to showcase 84 booths at China-ASEAN Expo

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    Myanmar will showcase 84 booths at the 21st China-ASEAN Expo in Nanning, south China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, from Sept. 24 to 28, the state-run Myanmar Radio and Television reported on Sunday.

    The booths will display a variety of products, including rice, Arabica coffee, aquatic products, fruits, tea, spices, woodwork, handicrafts, and gems, the report said.

    The expo aims to strengthen friendships and trade benefits, promote the development of the version 3.0 China-ASEAN Free Trade Area and boost high-quality development of the China-ASEAN region, it added.

    More than 100 people, including businesspeople and officials from the National University of Culture and Arts in Yangon, will participate in the event, the report said.

    MIL OSI China News