Category: Entertainment

  • MIL-OSI: Cloudbrink Named a Leader and Fast Mover in the GigaOm Radar for Zero-Trust Network Access (ZTNA)

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SUNNYVALE, Calif., July 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Cloudbrink, a leader in high-performance secure connectivity, today announced that respected industry analyst firm GigaOm has positioned Cloudbrink Personal SASE as a Leader and Fast Mover in the Innovation/Platform Play quadrant of the ZTNA Radar chart. According to the report, “Cloudbrink excels in supporting distributed workforces with latency-sensitive applications through its unique acceleration capabilities that enhance performance while maintaining security.”

    “Cloudbrink’s location so close to the center in the GigaOm Radar is a testimony to the work we’ve put in listening to customers and translating their needs into our solution,” said Prakash Mana, CEO of Cloudbrink. “We’re energized by the reception the product has gotten in awards, analyst reports, and above all, by our customers. ZTNA needs to take into account network demands as well as user performance requirements. We will continue to innovate to be at the forefront of its evolution.”

    Cloudbrink scored well on a number of decision criteria in the GigaOm report, including “exceptional” ratings for Session Monitoring, and Unmanaged Device Support, and “superior” for Legacy Application Support.

    In the Business Criteria section, Cloudbrink was top ranked, tied for the highest score. The report rated Cloudbrink “exceptional” for both cost and ease of use, and said, “As a 100% cloud-native SaaS solution, Cloudbrink enables rapid onboarding in minutes through its web-based management portal, with horizontal scaling capabilities to maintain performance as an organization grows. The solution demonstrates flexibility by supporting all popular use cases while delivering insights beyond typical offerings through additional high-fidelity telemetry, making it particularly suitable for latency-sensitive applications where other ZTNA solutions may struggle.”

    The report also praised Cloudbrink’s support for distributed offices across the globe. The report states, “International organizations benefit from CloudBrink’s comprehensive unmanaged device support that applies zero-trust controls while enabling secure access from various endpoints. Manufacturing industries appreciate the solution’s protocol-agnostic approach to legacy application support that maintains performance optimization regardless of application age. The extensive session monitoring provides organizations with detailed visibility into user experience metrics, connection quality, and application performance, making it valuable for businesses requiring both security and optimal application delivery across global operations.”

    The GigaOm Radar report examined 28 ZTNA solutions and compared offerings against the capabilities (table stakes, key features, and emerging features) and nonfunctional requirements (business criteria).

    Consistent Accolades for Cloudbrink Innovation

    Cloudbrink’s prominent position in the GigaOm Radar for ZTNA comes on the heels of several awards the company has recently received. In April Cloudbrink was awarded Most Innovative Secure Remote Access in the Cyber Defense Awards, at the RSA conference. Cloudbrink was also named Remote Work Tech Innovation of the Year in the RemoteTech Breakthrough Awards in June. Both awards selected Cloudbrink from thousands of nominations.

    About Cloudbrink
    Cloudbrink delivers a high-performance secure connectivity solution that significantly enhances productivity for the work-from-anywhere generation. The Personal SASE service (which includes high-performance ZTNA) offers up to a 30-fold increase in network performance and ensures a secure, seamless, in-office experience for employees, no matter where they are. With a focus on speed, simplicity, security, and savings, Cloudbrink streamlines management and support while providing edge-native zero-trust access for users and devices for simplified operations, reduced complexity, and fewer support calls. For more information go to www.cloudbrink.com.

    Media contact:
    Chris Fucanan
    AquaLab PR for Cloudbrink
    chris@aqualabpr.com
    916-345-3475

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Cloudbrink Named a Leader and Fast Mover in the GigaOm Radar for Zero-Trust Network Access (ZTNA)

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SUNNYVALE, Calif., July 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Cloudbrink, a leader in high-performance secure connectivity, today announced that respected industry analyst firm GigaOm has positioned Cloudbrink Personal SASE as a Leader and Fast Mover in the Innovation/Platform Play quadrant of the ZTNA Radar chart. According to the report, “Cloudbrink excels in supporting distributed workforces with latency-sensitive applications through its unique acceleration capabilities that enhance performance while maintaining security.”

    “Cloudbrink’s location so close to the center in the GigaOm Radar is a testimony to the work we’ve put in listening to customers and translating their needs into our solution,” said Prakash Mana, CEO of Cloudbrink. “We’re energized by the reception the product has gotten in awards, analyst reports, and above all, by our customers. ZTNA needs to take into account network demands as well as user performance requirements. We will continue to innovate to be at the forefront of its evolution.”

    Cloudbrink scored well on a number of decision criteria in the GigaOm report, including “exceptional” ratings for Session Monitoring, and Unmanaged Device Support, and “superior” for Legacy Application Support.

    In the Business Criteria section, Cloudbrink was top ranked, tied for the highest score. The report rated Cloudbrink “exceptional” for both cost and ease of use, and said, “As a 100% cloud-native SaaS solution, Cloudbrink enables rapid onboarding in minutes through its web-based management portal, with horizontal scaling capabilities to maintain performance as an organization grows. The solution demonstrates flexibility by supporting all popular use cases while delivering insights beyond typical offerings through additional high-fidelity telemetry, making it particularly suitable for latency-sensitive applications where other ZTNA solutions may struggle.”

    The report also praised Cloudbrink’s support for distributed offices across the globe. The report states, “International organizations benefit from CloudBrink’s comprehensive unmanaged device support that applies zero-trust controls while enabling secure access from various endpoints. Manufacturing industries appreciate the solution’s protocol-agnostic approach to legacy application support that maintains performance optimization regardless of application age. The extensive session monitoring provides organizations with detailed visibility into user experience metrics, connection quality, and application performance, making it valuable for businesses requiring both security and optimal application delivery across global operations.”

    The GigaOm Radar report examined 28 ZTNA solutions and compared offerings against the capabilities (table stakes, key features, and emerging features) and nonfunctional requirements (business criteria).

    Consistent Accolades for Cloudbrink Innovation

    Cloudbrink’s prominent position in the GigaOm Radar for ZTNA comes on the heels of several awards the company has recently received. In April Cloudbrink was awarded Most Innovative Secure Remote Access in the Cyber Defense Awards, at the RSA conference. Cloudbrink was also named Remote Work Tech Innovation of the Year in the RemoteTech Breakthrough Awards in June. Both awards selected Cloudbrink from thousands of nominations.

    About Cloudbrink
    Cloudbrink delivers a high-performance secure connectivity solution that significantly enhances productivity for the work-from-anywhere generation. The Personal SASE service (which includes high-performance ZTNA) offers up to a 30-fold increase in network performance and ensures a secure, seamless, in-office experience for employees, no matter where they are. With a focus on speed, simplicity, security, and savings, Cloudbrink streamlines management and support while providing edge-native zero-trust access for users and devices for simplified operations, reduced complexity, and fewer support calls. For more information go to www.cloudbrink.com.

    Media contact:
    Chris Fucanan
    AquaLab PR for Cloudbrink
    chris@aqualabpr.com
    916-345-3475

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Silicon Motion Announces Second Quarter 2025 Earnings Conference Call

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TAIPEI, Taiwan and MILPITAS, Calif., July 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Silicon Motion Technology Corporation (NasdaqGS: SIMO) (“Silicon Motion” or the “Company”), a global leader in NAND flash controllers for solid state storage devices, plans to release its second quarter 2025 financial results after the market closes on July 30, 2025 and will host a conference call on July 31 at 8:00 a.m. Eastern Time. Participants must pre-register using the link below to participate in the live call.  

    CONFERENCE CALL DETAILS:

    Participants must register in advance to join the conference call using the link provided below. Conference access information (including dial-in information and a unique access PIN) will be provided in the email received upon registration.

    Participant Online Registration:
    https://register-conf.media-server.com/register/BI9e8eb8a4d35743cfa957757c6a1207e2

    This call will be webcast on the Company’s website at www.siliconmotion.com.

    ABOUT SILICON MOTION:

    We are the global leader in supplying NAND flash controllers for solid state storage devices. We supply more SSD controllers than any other company in the world for servers, PCs and other client devices and are the leading merchant supplier of eMMC and UFS embedded storage controllers used in smartphones, IoT devices and other applications. We also supply customized high-performance hyperscale data center and specialized industrial and automotive SSD solutions.  Our customers include most of the NAND flash vendors, storage device module makers and leading OEMs. For further information on Silicon Motion, visit us at www.siliconmotion.com.

    FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS:

    This news release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Exchange Act. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by terminology such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “expect,” “intend,” “plan,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “predict,” “potential,” “continue,” or the negative of these terms or other comparable terminology. Although such statements are based on our own information and information from other sources we believe to be reliable, you should not place undue reliance on them. These statements involve risks and uncertainties, and actual market trends or our actual results of operations, financial condition or business prospects may differ materially from those expressed or implied in these forward-looking statements for a variety of reasons. Potential risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to the unpredictable volume and timing of customer orders, which are not fixed by contract but vary on a purchase order basis; the loss of one or more key customers or the significant reduction, postponement, rescheduling or cancellation of orders from one or more customers; general economic conditions or conditions in the semiconductor or consumer electronics markets; the impact of inflation on our business and customer’s businesses and any effect this has on economic activity in the markets in which we operate; the functionalities and performance of our information technology (“IT”) systems, which are subject to cybersecurity threats and which support our critical operational activities, and any breaches of our IT systems or those of our customers, suppliers, partners and providers of third-party licensed technology; the effects on our business and our customer’s business taking into account the ongoing U.S.-China tariffs and trade disputes; the uncertainties associated with any future global or regional pandemic; the continuing tensions between Taiwan and China, including enhanced military activities; decreases in the overall average selling prices of our products; changes in the relative sales mix of our products; changes in our cost of finished goods; supply chain disruptions that have affected us and our industry as well as other industries on a global basis; the payment, or non-payment, of cash dividends in the future at the discretion of our board of directors and any announced planned increases in such dividends; changes in our cost of finished goods; the availability, pricing, and timeliness of delivery of other components and raw materials used in the products we sell given the current raw material supply shortages being experienced in our industry; our customers’ sales outlook, purchasing patterns, and inventory adjustments based on consumer demands and general economic conditions; any potential impairment charges that may be incurred related to businesses previously acquired or divested in the future; our ability to successfully develop, introduce, and sell new or enhanced products in a timely manner; and the timing of new product announcements or introductions by us or by our competitors. For additional discussion of these risks and uncertainties and other factors, please see the documents we file from time to time with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, including our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on April 30, 2025. Other than as required under the securities laws, we do not intend, and do not undertake any obligation to, update or revise any forward-looking statements, which apply only as of the date of this news release.

    Investor Contacts:        

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: RTI and Kinova Partner to Integrate Intelligent Connectivity into Medical Robotics

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SUNNYVALE, Calif., July 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Real-Time Innovations (RTI), the software framework company for physical AI systems, today announced its partnership with Kinova, a global leader in professional and medical robotics. This collaboration will provide seamless integration of advanced robotic technologies with data-centric connectivity to simplify and accelerate product lifecycles, reduce program risk, and redefine what is possible in a new era of physical AI in advanced systems such as surgical robotics.

    Building on the extensive experience of both companies in robotics and intelligent and distributed systems, the integration of RTI Connext® with Kinova simplifies and accelerates the design of next-generation platforms. This collaboration enables the integration of robotics into a larger digital ecosystem that integrates visualization, AI, sensing, with real-time data interoperability. Recently both RTI and Kinova were announced as participants in NVIDIA’s Isaac for Healthcare program.

    This collaboration will be on display during a joint remote teleoperation demo in booth #065 at the Surgical Robotics Society Annual Meeting in Strasbourg, France from July 16-20, 2025. Developed in collaboration with MedAcuity, the demo allows attendees to use a haptic controller to manipulate a Kinova robotic arm located 3,000 miles away.

    “This partnership reinforces our mission to accelerate the development of innovative, high-performance medical robotic systems,” said François Boucher, Vice President of Business Development at Kinova. “By combining Kinova’s expertise in surgical-grade robotics with RTI’s real-time connectivity framework, we’re enabling our customers to bring next-generation solutions to market faster and with greater confidence.”

    “Our customers are solving the incredibly complex technical challenges that live at the intersection of robotics, connectivity, and AI,” said Bob Leigh, Senior Director of Commercial Markets at RTI. “This collaboration gives them the infrastructure to focus on innovation—whether that’s enabling teleoperation, improving operational precision, or accelerating integration across diverse hardware and software environments.”

    To learn more about RTI for advanced robotics, please visit our site.

    About Kinova
    Kinova accelerates the journey to market for medical robotics companies by offering both off-the-shelf and tailored solutions for the development and production of medical-grade robotic systems. Through state-of-the-art medical arms, actuators, tool drives, and expert product development services, Kinova enables its customers to enhance their value proposition and bring innovative, high-quality solutions to life. Learn more at www.kinovarobotics.com.

    About RTI
    RTI is the software framework company for physical AI systems, with a mission to run a smarter world. RTI Connext® provides the data architecture for over 2,000 designs in Aerospace and Defense, Medtech, Automotive, and Robotics – running in more than $1T of total deployed systems worldwide. Only RTI combines decades of technical expertise with industry-leading software and tools to develop smarter systems, faster. Learn more at www.rti.com.

    Media Contacts:
    Tiffany Yang
    Public Relations, RTI

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Caliber Promotes Greg James to Chief Operating Officer

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., July 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Caliber (NASDAQ: CWD), a real estate investor, developer, and manager, announced today that Greg James has been promoted to the company’s Chief Operating Officer. Greg joined Caliber in October 2024 as COO & Head of Hotel Asset Management and replaced Ignacio Martinez on July 7, 2025.

    “We thank Ignacio for his service. He joined Caliber at a time when building and scaling our business systems was critical,” said Chris Loeffler, CEO and Co-Founder of Caliber, “As we have made significant achievements in these areas, Caliber is now promoting Greg James from COO of Caliber Hospitality Trust & Head of Hotel Asset Management to Caliber’s new COO. In this expanded role, Greg brings a strong real estate focus on all aspects of Caliber’s acquisitions, development, and asset management services, applying his prior knowledge of running a hotel investment portfolio of over 100 assets valued at $3.5 billion across 26 states. This realignment takes full advantage of our talent, which is aligned with Caliber’s objective of the efficient use of capital and generating positive adjusted EBITDA.”

    “I am honored to step into the role of Chief Operating Officer at Caliber during such an exciting time of growth,” said Greg James Caliber’s new COO, “With Caliber’s strong foundation and talented team, I’m looking forward to building on our momentum, streamlining operations, expanding our hospitality platform, and delivering exceptional value to our investors and communities.”

    Mr. James brings over 34 years of experience in hotel operations and asset management. Prior to Caliber, he spent nearly two decades at Summit Hotel Properties [NYSE: INN], where he served as Senior Vice President of Operations overseeing revenue strategy, asset management, data analytics, PIP execution, acquisitions and dispositions, and day-to-day hotel operations. He began his career in 1991 with Marriott International, rising through the ranks and managing hotel operations at more than a dozen properties from coast to coast. Mr. James has a BA from Arizona State University.

    About Caliber (CaliberCos Inc.)

    With over $2.9 billion in Managed Assets, Caliber’s 16-year track record of managing and developing real estate is built on a singular goal: to make money in all market conditions, specializing in hospitality, multi-family residential, and multi-tenant industrial. Our growth is fueled by performance and a key competitive advantage: we invest in projects, strategies, and geographies that global real estate institutions often overlook. Integral to this advantage is our in-house shared services group, which gives Caliber greater control over our real estate and enhanced visibility into future investment opportunities. There are multiple ways to participate in Caliber’s success: invest in Nasdaq-listed CaliberCos Inc. and/or invest directly in our Private Funds.

    Forward-Looking Statements
    This press release contains “forward-looking statements” that are subject to substantial risks and uncertainties. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, contained in this press release are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements contained in this press release may be identified by the use of words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “contemplate,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “seek,” “may,” “might,” “plan,” “potential,” “predict,” “project,” “target,” “aim,” “should,” “will” “would,” or the negative of these words or other similar expressions, although not all forward-looking statements contain these words. Forward-looking statements are based on the Company’s current expectations and are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks and assumptions that are difficult to predict. Further, certain forward-looking statements are based on assumptions as to future events that may not prove to be accurate. These and other risks and uncertainties are described more fully in the section titled “Risk Factors” in the final prospectus related to the Company’s public offering filed with the SEC and other reports filed with the SEC thereafter. Forward-looking statements contained in this announcement are made as of this date, and the Company undertakes no duty to update such information except as required under applicable law.

    CONTACTS:
    Caliber Investor Relations:
    Ilya Grozovsky
    +1 480-214-1915
    Ilya@CaliberCo.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Save the Date: King of the Afterparty, Dave Cantin Group, Announces the 2026 NADA Party as a “Celebration for the Industry”

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, July 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The King of the Afterparty is back and going bigger than ever before. Dave Cantin Group (DCG), a leading mergers and acquisitions advisory company to retail automotive groups and their owners, has set Thursday, February 5th, as the date for its 2026 NADA Afterparty, promising a legendary event.

    DCG has taken over the world-famous LIV Nightclub at the Fontainebleau Hotel in Las Vegas. The private, invite-only event will be a celebration for the industry, with 1,500 guests attending from across all facets of automotive. “The automotive industry is the most dynamic and resilient industry in the world,” commented Dave Cantin Group CEO Dave Cantin. “This year, we wanted to be more inclusive and provide a place for everyone to come celebrate 2025 while we look forward to what’s ahead in 2026.”

    This year’s entertainment is still under wraps, but Dave Cantin Group will be announcing a complete lineup of talent that will perform throughout the night, including a surprise performance. For years, DCG has reigned supreme as the undisputed King of the Afterparty at NADA, the annual National Automobile Dealers Association conference, featuring speakers and acts including Almost Queen, Sugar Ray Leonard, Mike Tyson, Grant Cardone and Third Eye Blind.

    “Each year, we challenge ourselves to raise the bar, and this year, we’re going to be delivering something truly unforgettable,” DCG President Brian Gordon said. “February 5th at LIV will be more than a party; it will be a platform for the industry’s most influential people to come together and celebrate our incredible industry.”

    There’s the industry’s largest conference…and then there’s the unforgettable DCG Afterparty. Known for curating the most exclusive experience of NADA, DCG’s Afterparty is where influence meets entertainment on an invite-only experience for those shaping the future of automotive retail.

    Event Details:

    • Date: Thursday, February 5th, 2026 – Private Invite Only
    • Time: 9:00 PM – Late (early morning)
    • Venue: LIV Las Vegas Nightclub at the Fontainebleau Hotel

    Past Afterparty Highlights:

    • 2025: A mind-blowing performance by Third Eye Blind at NADA New Orleans, rated “10 out of 10, the best of NADA” by ASOTU, the go-to voice covering everything that happens on (and off) the NADA main stage.
    • 2023: VIP dinner and candid fireside chat with boxing legend Mike Tyson at NADA Dallas. Attendees called it “one of the most unexpected and unforgettable experiences in NADA history.”
    • 2022: Dubbed “The Undisputed Kings of the Afterparty” by Automotive News

    Don’t miss your chance to be part of the hottest night in the industry.

    To inquire about your exclusive table or be added to the VIP waitlist, contact your DCG advisor or email Dave Cantin Group at specialevents@davecantingroup.com.

    About Dave Cantin Group

    The Dave Cantin Group is a leading automotive M&A advisory company specializing in acquisitions, divestitures, intelligence, and other advisory services. The company is the M&A services provider of choice for North America’s top automotive dealership groups, advising on approximately 40 transactions annually. DCG is differentiated by its advisory approach, long-term lens on client relationships, and commitment to market intelligence tools that inform DCG and client strategies. In 2023, DCG became the only retail automotive M&A company with a significant strategic investor, welcoming Kaltroco to the DCG family.

    Through its M&A intelligence division, DCG produces automotive content and delivers relevant, timely marketing intelligence, including the automotive industry Market Outlook Report (MOR). Together with CBT News, DCG produces the Inside M&A studio show and podcast to share stories, news and trends impacting the retail automotive industry. DCG’s proprietary AI-enabled software, Jump IQ, anchors its advisory services that support retail automotive dealers in developing informed M&A strategies and making smarter M&A decisions.

    The company’s nonprofit initiative, DCG Giving, funds child and adolescent cancer research and treatment in communities nationwide and other worthy charitable initiatives. DCG team members regularly feature on the industry speaking circuit and are often cited by top national and global news outlets. For more information, please visit davecantingroup.com.

    Media Contact:
    Katie Merx
    katiemerx@gmail.com
    +1 313.510.5090

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/8336e4d6-be0b-415d-a2c2-f0938b5a993a

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Ascent Solar Technologies Reflects on H1 2025 Achievements and Milestones, Looks Ahead to Executing Upon H2 2025 Strategy

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    THORNTON, Colo., July 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Ascent Solar Technologies (“Ascent” or the “Company”) (Nasdaq: ASTI), the leading U.S. innovator in the design and manufacturing of featherweight, flexible thin-film photovoltaic (PV) solutions, today commented on its commercial progress and solar material development in the first half of 2025, as the Company looks ahead to continued growth and advancement in the second half of the year.

    “At the outset of the year, we sought to enter into a series of new private partnerships, further improve upon our technology’s efficiency, and focus our efforts and offerings on the space market,” said Paul Warley, Chief Executive Officer of Ascent Solar Technologies. “At the midpoint of the year, we are thrilled to be able to say that we have already reached those goals and look forward to further improving upon them, while also reaching new milestones and achievements throughout the remainder of the year.”

    Key Company milestones and achievements from the first half of 2025 include:

    Ascent’s leadership plans to build upon these achievements throughout the remainder of the year through:

    • Securing additional supply agreements with space partners and customers
    • The co-development and release of full plug and fly solutions with integrated structure power solutions
    • Advancing the development of space optimized encapsulation strategies for use in VLEO, LEO, and GEO with higher education, agency and private entity partnerships
    • The attendance of future events to connect with key industry leaders, existing partners, and potential customers

    Ascent’s leadership team looks forward to continued success through the remainder of 2025 and is eager to update its stockholder community with exciting Company announcements and milestones as they come to fruition. Anyone interested in learning more about the Company, its mission and technology, or anything else, is encouraged to visit https://www.ascentsolar.com.

    About Ascent Solar Technologies, Inc.

    Backed by 40 years of R&D, 15 years of manufacturing experience, numerous awards, and a comprehensive IP and patent portfolio, Ascent Solar Technologies, Inc. is a leading provider of innovative, high-performance, flexible thin-film solar panels for use in environments where mass, performance, reliability, and resilience matter. Ascent’s photovoltaic (PV) modules have been deployed on space missions, multiple airborne vehicles, agrivoltaic installations, in industrial/commercial construction as well as an extensive range of consumer goods, revolutionizing the use cases and environments for solar power. Ascent Solar’s research and development center and 5-MW nameplate production facility is in Thornton, Colorado. To learn more, visit https://www.ascentsolar.com.

    Media Contact

    Spencer Herrmann
    FischTank PR
    ascent@fischtankpr.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: The online world comes with risks – but also friendships and independence for young people with disabilities

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Andy Phippen, Professor of IT Ethics and Digital Rights, Bournemouth University

    Kleber Cordeiro/Shutterstock

    “In the real world, I’m a coward. When I’m online, I’m a hero.”

    These words, paraphrased from a conversation with a young man with autism, have stayed with us throughout the years of research that underpin our recently published book exploring the relationship between children with special educational needs and disabilities and digital technology.

    We’re constantly bombarded with warnings about the potential dangers of digital technology, especially for children. But this quote captures something we might miss. The digital world can be a vital space of empowerment and connection.

    In our work, we’ve found that digital technology offers more than just access to learning for young people with special educational needs and disabilities. It opens doors to social lives, creative outlets and even employment opportunities that might be closed to them in the offline world. And yet, this potential is too often overshadowed by fears about the risks and harms they might encounter online.


    Get your news from actual experts, straight to your inbox. Sign up to our daily newsletter to receive all The Conversation UK’s latest coverage of news and research, from politics and business to the arts and sciences.


    Adolescence, the Netflix drama that delves into the hidden dangers of growing up in a digital world, has taken up a lot of the national conversation around social media, cyberbullying and online exploitation. But there is another show on Netflix that has received far less attention.

    The Remarkable Life of Ibelin is a powerful documentary that tells the story of Mats Steen, a young Norwegian man with a severe disability who found freedom, friendship and purpose in the online world of gaming. Though physically limited by Duchenne muscular dystrophy, Mats, known as “Ibelin” in World of Warcraft, built a rich life online.

    After his passing at 25, his gaming friends revealed just how much he had meant to them. Some travelled to his funeral. The film challenges stereotypes about online gaming. It shows it as a source of connection, compassion, and real human bonds.

    We’ve spoken to many young people with special educational needs and disabilities who echo the same themes. Online spaces offer a sense of identity and capability they don’t always feel offline.

    We found that the benefits of digital engagement for children with special educational needs and disabilities are extensive. It enhances communication: tools such as voice interfaces and text-to-speech software help those with speech or language difficulties express themselves confidently. Online platforms create spaces for friendships, especially for those who find face-to-face interaction challenging.

    Young people can build meaningful relationships online.
    Frame Stock Footage/Shutterstock

    Digital tools can also foster independence. Calendar apps can be useful for those with ADHD, or assistive technology for learners with dyslexia. And for education, tailored online content can bridge the gap between mainstream and specialist learning environments.

    But the digital world isn’t an equal playing field. Children with special educational needs and disabilities face disproportionate levels of online harm, including grooming, cyberbullying and exposure to inappropriate content. Crucially, they often lack the tools or support to report harm or seek help.

    This, of course, raises concerns for the parents, carers and teachers of young people with special educational needs and disabilities. We’ve found that parents, carers and teachers we’ve spoken to often reach for a “prohibition first” approach – feeling young people will be safer if they do not have the access to the internet and social media that a young person without their needs might enjoy.

    Safeguarding and empowerment

    We’ve been asked questions such as “What apps should I ban?” or “How do I stop my child going on the dark web?” These questions reflect a risk-averse mindset that fails to appreciate the value of digital engagement. Risk cannot be eliminated, but it can be managed. And, more importantly, opportunity must be protected.

    Too often, safeguarding strategies are done to children, not with them. It’s a good idea for parents and teachers of all children to talk to them about their digital life: what brings them joy, what worries them, where they feel confident or confused. Children are more likely to talk about fears or bad experiences if they feel believed, respected and understood. Make yourself a safe adult to talk to: one who listens without panic.

    While banning apps or limiting access might be useful in some cases, it should not be the starting point for safeguarding. It’s worth considering whether there are skills that a child could learn that would allow them to use technology safely.

    What’s more, online safety lessons are best when adapted to the communication style, cognitive ability and emotional maturity of an individual child. Visual aids, social stories, or interactive games may work better than text-heavy advice.

    Fear can limit what technology can offer the children who may need it most. For young people with special educational needs and disabilities, digital spaces are not simply entertainment, they are platforms for agency, creativity, relationships and voice.

    The role of adults here is to ensure these spaces are not only safe, but welcoming and empowering. That means moving past automatic restrictions and toward thoughtful, inclusive strategies that support children who might gain the most from using these technologies. We don’t need more bans. We need more belief.

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

    ref. The online world comes with risks – but also friendships and independence for young people with disabilities – https://theconversation.com/the-online-world-comes-with-risks-but-also-friendships-and-independence-for-young-people-with-disabilities-260443

    MIL OSI Analysis

  • MIL-OSI: Churchill Reports High-Grade Zinc Results on Polymetallic Veins at the Black Raven Property, Central Newfoundland

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, July 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Churchill Resources Inc. (“Churchill” or the “Company”) (TSXV: CRI) is pleased to announce the final due-diligence sample results on its Black Raven property with three over-limit zinc assays of 5.25%, 11.03% and 12.11% from grab samples 305, 315 and 321 respectively. These samples returned high-grade gold, silver, lead and zinc, emphasizing the polymetallic metal assemblage of critical minerals present in the Black Raven vein system, per the summary table and figure below.

    Sample #   300   304   305   315   321
    Silver grade (g/t)   153   329   321   251   395
    Gold grade (g/t)   3.07   7.70   7.79   5.09   2.16
    Lead grade (%)   3.10   6.47   5.80   8.83   7.34
    Zinc grade (%)   2.85   4.97   5.25   11.03   12.11
    Copper grade (%)   nil   0.37   0.50   0.39   0.40
                         

    These samples exceeded the laboratory’s original upper detection limit for zinc (50,000ppm or 5% – see release of June 23 2025), and the results reported herein are from the overage assay protocols. The Black Raven vein systems have never been drilled.

    “These excellent zinc results complete all of the over-limit ore-grade analyses from our due-diligence sampling, and continue to strongly confirm our belief that the Black Raven system includes high-grade polymetallic veins, as well as the known Frost Cove Antimony and Stewart Gold past-producers,” commented Paul Sobie, President of Churchill. “Our next batch of rock samples are at SGS and will be processed much more quickly than the due-diligence set, as we’re running the appropriate ore grade analyses concurrently on suspected high-grade samples.”

    The Black Raven Property hosts two past-producing mines dating back to the late 1800’s, the Frost Cove Antimony Mine, and the Stewart Gold Mine which returned antimony grades of 35.1% and gold grades of 14.4 g/t, respectively (see release of 12th June 2025). The zinc results reported herein are from different locations on the property (see attached map). Black Raven is located approximately 60km northwest of Gander, and approximately 100km north of the Beaver Brook Antimony Mine, currently on care and maintenance.

    Antimony: A Critical Mineral in High Demand

    Antimony is a critical mineral essential for national security and modern technology, with over 90% of global production controlled by China, Russia, and other non-Western jurisdictions. The metal is a vital component in military applications, while also being crucial for certain flame retardants, strengthening alloys in batteries, and emerging energy storage technologies. Recent Chinese export restrictions have driven prices to record levels exceeding $50,000 per tonne, highlighting antimony’s strategic importance to a “Fortress North America” approach to critical mineral supply chains and making domestic North American sources increasingly important for economic and national security.

    Due-Diligence Sampling Program

    Antimony, gold, silver, lead, zinc, copper and molybdenum samples were selected by Dr. Derek Wilton, independent QP to Churchill, during field visits on April 24th and 25th. All samples were labelled and securely bound and delivered to the prep laboratory of SGS Canada Inc. in Grand Falls-Windsor, for crushing and pulverizing. Splits were couriered to Burnaby, B.C. by SGS for GE_AAS33E50 zinc assays and overlimit samples by the GO_ICP90Q100 ore-grade analytical method. All due-diligence samples described in this news release were grab samples and are selective by nature and are unlikely to represent average grades of the property.

    Black Raven Antimony-Gold Property

    The Black Raven Property comprises nine map-staked licenses constituting a single contiguous block of 125 claims that in total cover 3,125ha or 31.25km2. Churchill and the vendors have agreed to a 4km wide area of interest around the property boundaries as part of their agreement.

    The past sampling data reported in this News Release is historic in nature and does not meet NI43-101 standards. Churchill has relied on the information supplied in the Government of Newfoundland field assessment reports and from information found in the Mineral Occurrence Database System operated by the Newfoundland Department of Industry, Energy and, Technology. Natural Resources.

    The technical and scientific information in this news release has been reviewed and approved by Dr. Derek H.C Wilton, P.Geo., FGC, who is a “qualified person” as defined under National Instrument 43-101 – Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects (“NI 43-101”). Dr. Wilton is an honorary research professor of Economic Geology at Memorial University in St. John’s and is independent of the Company for the purposes of NI 43-101.

    References:

    Heyl, George R., 1936. Geology and Mineral Deposits of the Bay of Exploits Area. Newfoundland Department of Natural Resources, Geological Section, Bulletin No 3. 65 pages.

    Fogwill, W.D., 1968. Report on a copper prospect at Western Head, Moreton’s Harbour in the Notre Dame Bay Area, Newfoundland. Newfoundland and Labrador Geological Survey, Assessment File 2E/10/0350, 1968, 48 pages

    Kay, E.A. 1981. A geochemical and fluid inclusion study of the arsenopyrite-stibnite-gold mineralization, Moreton’s Harbour, Notre Dame Bay, Newfoundland. Master Thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John’s, Canada, 1981. Newfoundland and Labrador Geological Survey, Assessment File 002E/10/1075, 1981, 209 pages.

    Quinlan E, 2013. First Year Assessment Report for 019872M, Ninth Year Assessment Report for 015553M, and Third Year Assessment Report for 017787M for Exploration within the Black Raven Property, NTS Map Sheet 2E/10. Newfoundland and Labrador Geological Survey Assessment Report, 69 pages

    Quinlan, E. 2025. 21st, 8th & 4th Year Assessment Report of Diamond Drilling & Prospecting On Black Raven Property, License 023212M (21st Year), License 02840m (8th Year), License 35674m (4th Year) NTS 02E/10, North-Central Newfoundland. Property centered at approximately 49°57’N, 54°87’ W. 34 pages.

    About Churchill Resources

    Churchill Resources Inc. is a Canadian exploration company focused on strategic, critical minerals in Canada, principally at its prospective Black Raven, Taylor Brook and Florence Lake properties in Newfoundland & Labrador. The Churchill management team, board, and advisors have decades of combined experience in mineral exploration and in the establishment of successful publicly listed mining companies, both in Canada and around the world. Churchill’s Newfoundland and Labrador projects have the potential to benefit from the province’s large and diversified minerals industry, which includes world class nickel mines and processing facilities, and a well-developed mineral exploration sector with locally based drilling and geological expertise.

    Churchill’s Taylor Brook Nickel-Copper-Cobalt-Vanadium-Titanium Property, and Florence Lake Nickel Property, are both in good standing for a number of years, such that further exploration and development can await improved market conditions sentiment while the Company focuses on high-grade antimony-gold and other critical minerals.

    Further Information

    For further information regarding Churchill, please contact:

    Churchill Resources Inc.
    Paul Sobie, Chief Executive Officer
    psobie@churchillresources.com
    Tel. 416.365.0930 (o)
           647.988.0930 (m)

    Alec Rowlands, Business Development & IR
    Alec.rowlands1@gmail.com
    Tel. 416.721.4732 (m)

    FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

    This news release contains certain forward-looking statements, including, but not limited to, statements about Churchill’s objectives, goals and exploration activities proposed to be conducted on its properties; future growth potential of Churchill, including whether any proposed exploration programs at any of its properties will be successful; exploration results; and future exploration plans and costs. Wherever possible, words such as “may”, “will”, “should”, “could”, “expect”, “plan”, “intend”, “anticipate”, “believe”, “estimate”, “predict” or “potential” or the negative or other variations of these words, or similar words or phrases, have been used to identify these forward-looking statements. In particular, this release contains forward-looking information relating to, among other things, the Company’s goals and objectives, and future exploration work to be conducted on the Company’s Black Raven Antimony Property. These statements reflect management’s current beliefs and are based on information currently available to management as at the date hereof.

    Forward-looking statements involve significant risk, uncertainties and assumptions. Many factors could cause actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from the results discussed or implied in the forward-looking statements. These factors should be considered carefully and readers should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements. Such factors, among other things, include: exploration results on the Black Raven Antimony Property; the expected benefits to Churchill relating to the exploration proposed to be conducted on its properties; receipt of all regulatory approvals in connection with the transaction contemplated herein; failure to identify any additional mineral resources or significant mineralization; the preliminary nature of metallurgical test results; uncertainties relating to the availability and costs of financing needed in the future, including to fund any exploration programs on the Churchill’s properties, if required; fluctuations in general macroeconomic conditions; fluctuations in securities markets; fluctuations in spot and forward prices of gold, silver, base metals or certain other commodities; change in national and local government, legislation, taxation, controls, regulations and political or economic developments; risks and hazards associated with the business of mineral exploration, development and mining (including environmental hazards, industrial accidents, unusual or unexpected formations pressures, cave-ins and flooding); inability to obtain adequate insurance to cover risks and hazards; the presence of laws and regulations that may impose restrictions on mining and mineral exploration; employee relations; relationships with and claims by local communities and indigenous populations; availability of increasing costs associated with mining inputs and labour; the speculative nature of mineral exploration and development (including the risks of obtaining necessary licenses, permits and approvals from government authorities); the unlikelihood that properties that are explored are ultimately developed into producing mines; geological factors; actual results of current and future exploration; changes in project parameters as plans continue to be evaluated; soil sampling results being preliminary in nature and are not conclusive evidence of the likelihood of a mineral deposit; and title to properties. Although the forward-looking statements contained in this news release are based upon what management believes to be reasonable assumptions, the Churchill cannot assure readers that actual results will be consistent with these forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this news release, and the Churchill assumes no obligation to update or revise them to reflect new events or circumstances, except as required by law. Neither the TSXV nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSXV) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/7bb07e79-51ac-4671-b042-3607a1200922

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: OTC Markets Group Welcomes Vaxart, Inc. to OTCQX

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, July 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — OTC Markets Group Inc. (OTCQX: OTCM), operator of regulated markets for trading 12,000 U.S. and international securities, today announced Vaxart, Inc. (OTCQX: VXRT), a clinical-stage biotechnology company, has qualified to trade on the OTCQX® Best Market. Vaxart, Inc. previously traded on NASDAQ.

    Vaxart, Inc. begins trading today on OTCQX under the symbol “VXRT.” U.S. investors can find current financial disclosure and Real-Time Level 2 quotes for the company on www.otcmarkets.com.

    Trading on the OTCQX Market offers companies efficient, cost-effective access to the U.S. capital markets. Streamlined market requirements for OTCQX are designed to help companies lower the cost and complexity of being publicly traded, while providing transparent trading for their investors. To qualify for OTCQX, companies must meet high financial standards, follow best practice corporate governance, and demonstrate compliance with applicable securities laws.

    “We thank OTC Markets Group for welcoming us and appreciate our investors for their continued support” said Steven Lo, Vaxart CEO. “We remain focused on making meaningful scientific progress in developing oral pill vaccines to potentially transform public health.”

    About Vaxart, Inc.
    Vaxart is a clinical-stage biotechnology company developing a range of oral recombinant vaccines based on its proprietary delivery platform. Vaxart vaccines are designed to be administered using pills that can be stored and shipped without refrigeration and eliminate the risk of needle-stick injury. Vaxart believes that its proprietary pill vaccine delivery platform is suitable to deliver recombinant vaccines, positioning the company to develop oral versions of currently marketed vaccines and to design recombinant vaccines for new indications. Vaxart’s development programs currently include pill vaccines designed to protect against coronavirus, norovirus and influenza, as well as a therapeutic vaccine for human papillomavirus (HPV), Vaxart’s first immune-oncology indication. Vaxart has filed broad domestic and international patent applications covering its proprietary technology and creations for oral vaccination using adenovirus and TLR3 agonists

    About OTC Markets Group Inc.

    OTC Markets Group Inc. (OTCQX: OTCM) operates regulated markets for trading 12,000 U.S. and international securities. Our data-driven disclosure standards form the foundation of our public markets: OTCQX® Best Market, OTCQB® Venture Market, OTCID™️ Basic Market and Pink Limited Market.

    Our OTC Link® Alternative Trading Systems (ATSs) provide critical market infrastructure that broker-dealers rely on to facilitate trading. Our innovative model offers companies more efficient access to the U.S. financial markets.

    OTC Link ATS, OTC Link ECN, OTC Link NQB, and MOON ATS are each SEC regulated ATS, operated by OTC Link LLC, a FINRA and SEC registered broker-dealer, member SIPC. To learn more about how we create better informed and more efficient markets, visit
    www.otcmarkets.com.

    Subscribe to the OTC Markets RSS Feed

    Media Contact:
    OTC Markets Group Inc., +1 (212) 896-4428, media@otcmarkets.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Willis launches $200m facility to tackle global geopolitical uncertainty for cargo owners

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LONDON, July 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Willis, a WTW business (NASDAQ: WTW), has launched ‘Undercover’, a new $200 million facility, combining coverage for a range of geopolitical exposures faced by cargo owners worldwide.

    Developed by Willis in a joint proposition with specialist insurer, Markel, Undercover offers a unique approach to the risk transfer of cargo, war on land, terrorism, political violence and confiscation coverage, with sections of coverage selected based on the individual needs of the client. This single-facility approach minimizes coverage gaps and reduces the likelihood of claims disputes, as well as removing the need to establish the motivation for a claim.

    In challenging times of political instability, Undercover offers certainty of cover to cargo owners. It also provides protection from fluctuating insurance costs when country risk ratings change, as cargo cover is frequently provided on a global basis.

    Ben Abraham, Global CEO, Willis Marine, said, “In a period of heightened geopolitical risk, cargo owners face enormous uncertainty in fast changing situations. This innovative solution is the first that offers a clear, comprehensive approach to cover, offering the maximum certainty exactly when it’s needed and when the worst happens.”

    Brook Styles, Head of Cargo, Markel International said: “The transportation of goods is highly sensitive to geopolitical uncertainty, which has the potential to disrupt trade routes, increase operating costs and put pressure on the resilience of global supply chains. We’re therefore pleased to have launched this new product, which provides support to cargo owners by helping them navigate today’s complex geopolitical risk environment with added confidence, clarity and simplicity.” 

    For more information on the risks covered: https://www.wtwco.com/en-gb/solutions/products/undercover

    About WTW

    At WTW (NASDAQ: WTW), we provide data-driven, insight-led solutions in the areas of people, risk and capital. Leveraging the global view and local expertise of our colleagues serving 140 countries and markets, we help organizations sharpen their strategy, enhance organizational resilience, motivate their workforce and maximize performance.

    Willis is one of the oldest names in marine insurance having commenced as a marine broker in 1828. Our Global Marine team has 650+ marine risk and insurance specialists work together address the needs of the marine sector through innovative risk advice and customized solutions. Within Global Marine, our 200+ cargo insurance experts work within an industry practice framework to provide sector specific advice and a risk-centred solutions. Our teams collaborate to ensure our clients are getting the best of Willis across the geographies and sectors we serve.

    About Markel

    We are Markel Insurance, a leading global specialty insurer with a truly people-first approach. As the insurance operations within the Markel Group Inc. (NYSE: MKL), we leverage a broad array of capabilities and expertise to create intelligent solutions for the most complex specialty insurance needs. However, it is our people – and the deep, valued relationships they develop with colleagues, brokers and clients – that differentiates us worldwide. 

    Media Contacts

    Lauren David:
    Lauren.david@wtwco.com / +44 7385947619

    Candela Farroni:
    Candela.farroni@haggiepartners.com / +44 7795 155654

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI USA: Curiosity Blog, Sol 4588: Ridges and troughs

    Source: NASA

    Written by Lucy Thompson, APXS Collaborator and Senior Research Scientist at the University of New Brunswick, CanadaEarth planning date: Wednesday, July 2, 2025As we traverse the boxwork terrain, we are encountering a series of more resistant ridges/bedrock patches, and areas that are more rubbly and tend to form lower relief polygonal or trough-like features. We came into planning this morning in one of the trough-like features after another successful drive. The science team is interested in determining why we see these different geomorphological and erosional expressions. Is the rock that comprises the more resistant ridges and patches a different composition to the rock in the troughs and low relief areas? How do the rocks vary texturally? Might the resistant bedrock be an indicator of what we will encounter when we reach the large boxworks that we are driving towards?We managed to find a large enough area of rock to safely brush (target – “Guapay”), after which we will place APXS and MAHLI to determine the composition and texture. ChemCam will also analyze a different rock target, “Taltal” for chemistry and texture, and we will also acquire an accompanying Mastcam documentation image. The resistant ridge that we are planning to drive towards (“Volcan Pena Blanca”) and eventually investigate will be captured in a Mastcam mosaic. ChemCam will utilize their long-distance imaging capabilities to image the “Mishe Mokwa” butte off to the southeast of our current location, which likely contains bedrock layers that we will eventually pass through as we continue our climb up Mount Sharp.After a planned drive, taking us closer to the “Volcan Pena Blanca” ridge, MARDI will image the new terrain beneath the wheels, before we execute some atmospheric observations. Mastcam will make a tau observation to monitor dust in the atmosphere and Navcam will acquire a zenith movie. Standard DAN, RAD and REMS activities round out the plan.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Six months after the LA fires, nation’s fastest residential cleanup nears completion as Governor Newsom signs streamlining executive order, joins local leaders to unveil blueprint for rebuilding

    Source: US State of California 2

    Jul 7, 2025

    Recovery moves into next phase with focused plan to fast-track reconstruction and support impacted communities

    What you need to know: Governor Newsom has announced that debris removal for the Los Angeles firestorm is now substantially complete just six months after the fires ignited and has signed a new executive order to further fast-track rebuilding homes and schools. The Governor announced a blueprint for recovery in partnership with Los Angeles County leaders. 

    LOS ANGELES – On the six month anniversary of the Eaton and Palisades fires, Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the substantial completion of the public debris removal program from more than 10,000 fire damaged parcels — marking the fastest major disaster cleanup in American history. The Governor also signed an executive order shepherding rebuilding homes and schools. He also joined local officials to unveil a new blueprint for recovery, a step-by-step plan to accelerate rebuilding and provide support to impacted families and communities. The near-completion of the public debris removal program comes months ahead of schedule.

    This is the biggest reform of the California mental health system in decades and will finally equip partners to deliver the results all Californians need and deserve. Treatment centers will prioritize mental health and substance use support in the community like never before. Now, it’s time to roll up our sleeves and begin implementing this critical reform – working closely with city and county leaders to ensure we see results.

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    “Visiting LA during the fires and in their devastating aftermath, I met with so many who despite facing so much loss and suffering themselves, were out helping their neighbors—delivering food, donating clothes, rescuing pets, opening up their homes to those who had lost theirs,” said First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom. “Although much has been accomplished already in this recovery effort, the work continues. In it, Angelenos continue to show each other—and the world—the very best of us.” 

    Historic debris removal operation 

    The LA Fires cleanup is the second largest in state history after the Camp Fire and was jointly managed by the Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) and United States Army Corps of Engineers, in partnership with Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), as well Los Angeles County and City of Los Angeles. 
    Of the 12,048 total properties destroyed in the twin fires, 9,873 opted to participate in the cost-free public cleanup program and 1,982 opted to complete the work themselves. As of today 9,195 total have been cleared of debris with several hundred more awaiting erosion control measures and final sign-off.
    Any properties whose owner did not opt into the state-federal cleanup or remediate their parcel privately will be subject to a locally led city and county abatement process which is already underway.

    Billions of pounds of debris remediated

    The volume of ash, soot and structural debris cleaned up during this short time is nothing short of breathtaking.
    Crews removed more than 2.5 million tons — or 5.5 billion pounds — of ash, debris, metal, concrete, and contaminated soil in nine months’ time as part of California’s Consolidated Debris Removal Program. The total tonnage removed from the Eaton and Palisades Fires is equivalent to 92 Statues of Liberty. It is twice the amount removed from Ground Zero after 9/11.

    Prioritizing efficient rebuilding

    Today’s executive order fast-tracks the rebuilding of homes and schools affected by the disaster by suspending local permitting laws and building codes, at the request of local officials. The order: 

    • Expands suspensions of the Coastal Act and CEQA in the city of Los Angeles, creating parity among homeowners in the city and allowing homeowners to fast-track their entire rebuilding project.
    • Expands existing Coastal Act and CEQA exemptions to streamline rebuilding public schools, getting kids back in neighborhood public schools faster.
    • Exempts residents who are rebuilding homes from the requirement to install rooftop solar and battery storage systems to reduce up-front costs, while retaining the “Solar Ready” requirement to ensure these structures can support future installation of solar energy systems. 
    • Suspends changes to building codes that would go into effect on January 1, 2026, when not all homeowners will have finalized their plans to rebuild, to create certainty for homeowners and avoid the need to change plans, while retaining updated fire safety requirements.

    A blueprint for recovery 

    The progress made during this effort is due in large part to the unprecedented coordination among city, county, state, and federal partners.

    As the debris-removal work comes to an end and communities set their sights on the next phase of recovery, Los Angeles County embraces its role to lead local rebuilding efforts in unincorporated areas and foster conditions for a successful and equitable reconstruction and recovery in both city and county areas.

    The focus now shifts to the ongoing rebuilding process, where the state is actively supporting local officials in:

    • Identifying community needs for reconstruction
    • Specifying the magnitude and time-sensitivity of community needs, including needs for homeowners, residents, businesses and others.  
    • Defining priorities and what the county can do to move the needle and address identified needs
    • Communicating how it’s partnering to make reconstruction fast and affordable
    • Outlining an implementation roadmap 

    This blueprint will serve the near-term roadmap for the next 120 days, enabling the county to maintain the current pace for rebuilding and not be late to the needs of communities.  

    What they are saying

    “We have made tremendous progress in rebuilding our communities for the thousands of families who lost everything in the Eaton and Palisades fires, but to keep up this momentum, we are going to need more federal support. I will continue to push my colleagues in Congress to approve additional disaster assistance for California, because natural disasters don’t discriminate between red or blue states. We have always been there to help our neighbors, and it’s time for Congress to step up and deliver the disaster aid California needs.” – U.S. Senator Alex Padilla

    “For the past six months, as Los Angeles confronted the most devastating natural disaster in a generation, our communities have rallied to remind the world why we are the City of Angels. First responders, volunteers, friends, and neighbors helped recovery efforts, many of whom I’ve had the good fortune to meet and thank firsthand. In California, we have brought a sense of urgency to the cleanup and rebuilding, united in our goal of rising stronger from this ash and adversity. Senator Padilla and I continue to work with the Governor and the entire California delegation in Congress to supplement local efforts with the overdue federal disaster assistance needed to fully restore these vital neighborhoods,” – U.S. Senator Adam Schiff

    “Six months ago, our community was forever changed by the Los Angeles wildfires. Today, we remember the lives lost, the homes destroyed, and the bravery of those who stood in the face of unimaginable devastation. While we’ve made tremendous progress in delivering critical aid and coordinating relief on the ground, our work is far from over. We still face urgent challenges like securing affordable, long-term housing for those displaced. That’s why I’m incredibly grateful for Governor Newsom’s support and partnership as we fight for additional federal disaster aid to ensure that every survivor has the resources they need to recover and rebuild. As climate change fuels more frequent and devastating natural disasters across the country, we must remember that natural disasters have no political affiliations. And neither should our response. Every American deserves swift and fair federal aid no matter where they live or who they voted for.” – U.S. Representative Judy Chu

    “Reaching the six-month anniversary of the Los Angeles Wildfires reminds us that while recovery is a long journey, progress is possible when we stand together. From day one, Governor Newsom and his Administration have been true partners in this work, helping us cut red tape, bring resources to survivors, and rebuild with urgency and compassion. We have completed the fastest debris cleanup in California history and are now moving forward with an ambitious, people-first recovery blueprint. I remain committed to ensuring every affected community has the support they need to rebuild and thrive.” – Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors Chair Kathryn Barger

    “Six months ago, the Palisades and Eaton Fires put our communities to the ultimate test. In the face of colossal devastation, we witnessed the unshakable resilience of the human spirit. Our residents stood strong, banded together, and reminded us all of the power of community. Thanks to a close partnership with Governor Newsom, governmental coordination at every level, and tireless County teams, we’ve already led the fastest debris removal in history. This is the spirit of Los Angeles County — and our momentum will continue. Together, we are not just restoring what was lost — we are building back stronger, safer, and more united than ever.” – Los Angeles County Supervisor Lindsay Horvath

    “Six months ago, L.A. experienced one of the most unprecedented natural disasters in U.S. history. But this community—from Pacific Palisades to Malibu to Altadena—is resilient. We are L.A. strong. I want to thank Governor Newsom, Supervisor Barger, and all of our federal, state, County, non-profit and philanthropic partners for their collaboration as we continue to lead the fastest recovery in state history as we create clear and supportive pathways for homeowners to rebuild.” – Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass

    “As we mark six months since the Eaton Fire, I want to thank Governor Newsom for his leadership and steadfast support. I also want to acknowledge our federal, state, and local partners—including Supervisor Kathryn Barger and her team, FEMA, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, CalOES, LA County Public Works, and our dedicated City of Pasadena team. Thanks to these strong partnerships, and the strength and heart of our local community, we have forged a path of recovery that is not only steady—it is, by all measures, unprecedented in its pace and coordination.” – Pasadena Mayor Victor Gordo

    “The City of Malibu is grateful for the cooperation of the Governor’s office during this extraordinary time. Additionally, the outstanding teamwork that has developed between the State of California, County of Los Angeles and our Federal partners, including the Army of Corp of Engineers, is something we can all be proud of. All levels of government have looked to find innovative ways to respond and work to create an efficient recovery. We are excited to continue our work to rebuild our communities and find ways to reduce rebuild costs by working together.” – Malibu Mayor Marianne Riggins

    “On this six-month anniversary of the Eaton Fire, I want to extend our sincere gratitude to our federal, state, and county partners, for their continued leadership and support. Thanks to their efforts, we’ve made significant progress toward recovery. Nevertheless, we recognize there is still critical work ahead to fully restore our impacted communities and Sierra Madre remains committed to that path.” – Sierra Madre Mayor Robert Parkhurst

    “This progress is a testament to the unwavering collaboration between FEMA, USACE, CalOES, L.A. County Department of Public Works and all of our federal, state, local and private sector partners. In my 28 years of emergency management, I’ve rarely seen such an effective and united response and recovery effort. Together, we are making significant strides in helping communities rebuild and restore their lives. The dedication and hard work of everyone involved exemplifies the true spirit of American resilience and determination, making this milestone possible.” – FEMA Region 9 Administrator Bob Fenton

    “Over the past six months, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, working closely with our federal, state, and local partners, has made significant progress in the Eaton and Palisades Fire debris removal mission. Together, we’ve safely and efficiently cleared thousands of fire-impacted properties, moving quickly to reduce hazards and help communities take the next steps toward recovery. This mission demonstrates what can be achieved through strong partnerships and a shared commitment to fast, safe, and effective operations. USACE remains fully committed to seeing this mission through to completion.” – Colonel Eric R. Swenson, United States Army Corps of Engineers
     

    California’s all-in efforts

    Since the first day these firestorms ignited, Governor Newsom has been on the ground leading an all-in state response and recovery. 

    The Governor deployed resources before the hurricane-force fires broke out – growing to over 16,000 boots on the ground at the peak of the state’s response. And in the hours that followed, Governor Newsom launched historic recovery and rebuilding efforts to help Los Angeles get back on its feet, faster. 

    Even before the fires were out, Governor Newsom worked closely with outgoing President Joe Biden to secure a Presidential Major Disaster Declaration and then coordinated with the Trump Administration to ensure comprehensive federal support for Los Angeles. 

    That work has paid dividends as the current pace of debris and hazardous waste removal is months ahead of the cleanup timeline for the Camp, Woolsey, Hill fires in 2019 and Tubbs Fire in 2017/18, which at the time were themselves the fastest of their kind. 

    State and federal officials worked hand in glove to clear hazardous waste from 9,000 homes in less than 30 days. At the project’s peak, as many as 500 crews of expert heavy equipment operators from the Army Corps of Engineers worked around the clock to rapidly clear ash, soot, and fire debris from structures damaged by the Eaton and Palisades fires. 

    By the numbers 

    • 16,000 first responders and recovery personnel deployed
    • $2.5 billion in Small Business Administration Assistance approved. 
    • $144.2 million in individual assistance disbursed
    • $100 million in dedicated community partnerships through LA Rises
    • 40,000 totals visitors to disaster recovery centers 
    • 30 days to clear properties of hazardous waste
    • 9,195 properties cleared of debris 
    • 2,300 homes cleared of debris 
    • 12,500 right of entry forms submitted 
    • 8 of 8 schools resumed in person instruction 
    • 9 of 9 water systems reactivated  

    California’s historic recovery and rebuilding efforts 

    Cutting red tape to help rebuild Los Angeles faster and stronger

    • The new executive order builds on prior orders to streamline the rebuilding of homes and businesses destroyed — suspending permitting and review requirements under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and the California Coastal Act. The Governor also issued an executive order further cutting red tape by reiterating that permitting requirements under the California Coastal Act are suspended for rebuilding efforts and directing the Coastal Commission not to issue guidance or take any action that interferes with or conflicts with the Governor’s executive orders. The Governor also issued an executive order removing administrative barriers, extending deadlines, and providing critical regulatory relief to help fire survivors rebuild, access essential services, and recover more quickly.

    Providing tax and mortgage relief to those impacted by the fires

    Fast-tracking temporary housing and protecting tenants

    • To help provide necessary shelter for those immediately impacted by the firestorms, the Governor issued an executive order to make it easier to streamline construction of accessory dwelling units, allow for more temporary trailers and other housing, and suspend fees for mobile home parks. Governor Newsom also issued an executive order that prohibited landlords in Los Angeles County from evicting tenants for sharing their rental with survivors displaced by the Los Angeles-area firestorms.
    • With an eye toward recovery, the Governor directed fast action on debris removal work and mitigating the potential for mudslides and flooding in areas burned. He also signed an executive order to allow expert federal hazmat crews to start cleaning up properties as a key step in getting people back to their properties safely. The Governor also issued an executive order to help mitigate risk of mudslides and flooding and protect communities by hastening efforts to remove debris, bolster flood defenses, and stabilize hillsides in affected areas. 

    Safeguarding survivors from price gouging

    Directing immediate state relief

    Getting kids back in the classroom

    Protecting victims from real estate speculators

    • The Governor issued an executive order to protect firestorm victims in the immediate aftermath of losing their homes from predatory land speculators making aggressive and unsolicited below-market cash offers to purchase their property.

    Helping businesses and workers get back on their feet

    The Governor issued an executive order to support small businesses and workers, by providing relief to help businesses recover quickly by deferring annual licensing fees and waiving other requirements that may impose barriers to recovery.

    Recent news

    News Sacramento, California – Governor Gavin Newsom today issued a proclamation declaring July 4, 2025, as “Independence Day” in the State of California.The text of the proclamation and a copy can be found below: PROCLAMATIONEach year on the Fourth of July, we…

    News SACRAMENTO – A day after announcing California has more than doubled its Film and Television Tax Credit Program, Governor Gavin Newsom today signed legislation to further strengthen the state’s commitment to film and television production:AB 1138 by…

    News What you need to know: As we approach the Fourth of July holiday and weekend, California is taking steps to keep communities safe during festivities by increasing outreach and highlighting resources. Sacramento, California — As Californians gear up to celebrate…

    MIL OSI USA News

  • WaveX launches ‘Kalaa Setu’ challenge to boost AI-driven multilingual content generation

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    In a significant step towards strengthening inclusive digital communication, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has launched the ‘Kalaa Setu – Real-Time Language Tech for Bharat’ initiative under its WaveX Startup Accelerator Platform. The programme invites India’s leading AI startups to develop innovative solutions for real-time multilingual and multimedia content generation aimed at enhancing public outreach in governance.

    As India’s digital governance ecosystem expands, the need for prompt, effective, and localised communication with citizens has become increasingly important. Traditional content creation processes often struggle to meet the demands of scale and linguistic diversity across the country. In this context, the ‘Kalaa Setu’ challenge seeks to harness the potential of artificial intelligence to bridge language barriers and deliver information to the last mile.

    Under this initiative, startups have been invited to develop indigenous, scalable solutions capable of generating audio, video, and graphic content from text inputs in multiple Indian languages. The challenge focuses on three key areas: text-to-video generation for creating contextualised video content, text-to-graphics generation for producing infographics and illustrations, and text-to-audio generation using advanced voice synthesis technology to deliver regionally relatable speech content.

    Officials said the solutions developed under ‘Kalaa Setu’ will help public communication bodies to dynamically convert official information into locally relevant formats, such as infographic visuals, video explainers, and audio news capsules, in real time. This will benefit various sections of society, including farmers, students, and senior citizens, by providing them timely updates in languages they understand best.

    Startups can submit their applications for the challenge through the WAVEX portal (https://wavex.wavesbazaar.com) under the ‘Kalaa Setu’ category. Applicants must submit a working Minimum Viable Concept by 30th July, 2025. Shortlisted teams will present their solutions before a national jury in New Delhi. The winning team will receive support for full-scale development, pilot opportunities with All India Radio, Doordarshan, and PIB, as well as incubation under the WaveX Innovation Platform.

    Earlier, the Ministry had also launched the ‘Bhasha Setu’ challenge on 30th June, 2025, aimed at real-time language translation. Startups can apply for the ‘Bhasha Setu’ challenge till 22nd July, 2025 through the same portal.

    These initiatives are part of the Government of India’s larger push to promote AI-driven technologies for inclusive and effective governance. By supporting home-grown innovations in multilingual communication and translation, the government aims to ensure that every citizen, regardless of language or region, has timely access to information.

    WaveX, launched under the Ministry’s WAVES initiative, serves as a dedicated startup accelerator to encourage innovation in media, entertainment, and language technologies. Earlier this year, the platform provided over 30 startups an opportunity to pitch their ideas at the WAVES Summit in Mumbai. 

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Ministry of Economic Development: SEZ residents almost doubled investments in 2024

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Ministry of Economic Development (Russia) – Ministry of Economic Development (Russia) –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    The Ministry of Economic Development of Russia sent to the Government report on the results of the work of special economic zones for 2024. Such analysis is carried out annually in accordance with the rules for assessing the effectiveness of the functioning of the SEZ, approved by the Government.

    The overall efficiency indicator was 90% (the functioning of the SEZ is considered effective if the overall calculated indicator is 80%).

    “In recent years, the number of SEZs in the country has increased significantly. New territories with a preferential regime have already been included in the rating, but have not yet reached full capacity. At the same time, residents are actively entering the “young” SEZs, expanding production and investing, creating highly paid jobs. Thus, the lion’s share of all investments in the SEZ in 2024 were provided by territories created in 2020-2022. It is important that businesses are increasing investments in the development of new technologies – R&D costs have grown by almost 60% and exceeded 35 billion rubles. This means that even in difficult conditions, companies continue to search for and implement innovative solutions, update products and develop new markets,” said Deputy Minister of Economic Development Svyatoslav Sorokin.

    According to the assessment results, the leaders in terms of efficiency for 2024 were industrial production zones in the Samara Region (Tolyatti), the Republic of Tatarstan (Alabuga), Moscow Region (Stupino Kvadrat), Ivanovo Region (Ivanovo), Lipetsk Region (Lipetsk), and Kaluga Region (Kaluga).

    “Special economic zones remain one of the most effective instruments of state support for investors. Last year, residents invested more than 1.2 trillion rubles in projects, which is twice as much as the year before. Over 25 thousand new jobs were created, which is 40% more than in 2023. These results confirm that businesses are comfortable working in SEZ conditions: these are tax and customs preferences, ready-made infrastructure, administrative support and reduced costs for connecting to resources. All this makes SEZ sites growth points and attractive for long-term investments,” Svyatoslav Sorokin emphasized.

    “Business investments are new high-tech production facilities, jobs, and taxes that we direct to the development of the social sphere and improving the quality of life of our citizens. And the special economic zone “Togliatti” with its opportunities and preferences is an effective tool for attracting private investment, a key growth point. The development of the capacities of the SEZ “Togliatti” will contribute to the development of the regional economy and increase the competitiveness of the region in the investment arena,” said the Governor of the Samara Region Vyacheslav Fedorishchev.

    “Of course, the preferences of the special economic zone play an important role when an investor chooses a location – these are both tax benefits and ready-made infrastructure. For us, the SEZ in Baikalsk has become part of the important work to create a new environmentally friendly business format on the former industrial site,” said Igor Kobzev, Governor of the Irkutsk Region. He also noted that there is currently a high interest from investors in the SEZ, in connection with which the regional authorities are preparing documents for the Ministry of Economic Development of the Russian Federation to expand the preferential regime zone.

    “The Saint Petersburg Special Economic Zone annually confirms its effectiveness, taking places in the top three special economic zones of the technology implementation type. We are the leader in the volume of tax deductions from our residents to the country’s budget system. This makes a significant contribution to the high assessment of our work. Over 19 years of operation, two operating sites of the SEZ have already brought Saint Petersburg 135 billion rubles in investments, almost 8 thousand jobs and about 29 billion rubles in tax deductions. The city sees the effect for Saint Petersburg and is interested in scaling up the project,” said Tamara Rondaleva, General Director of JSC Saint Petersburg Special Economic Zone.

    The efficiency assessment was carried out based on 25 quantitative indicators, as well as six calculated metrics, including: the performance of residents, the profitability of investments from budgets at all levels in the infrastructure of the zones, the efficiency of management bodies, the quality of planning during the creation of the SEZ, and the contribution to the achievement of national development goals defined by the May decree of the President of the Russian Federation.

    Every year new production facilities are opened in the territory of special economic zones. In 2024 alone, several socially significant and high-tech projects began operating at once.

    The production of televisions under the GigaFactory brand has started in the Novgorodskaya SEZ — this is the first and only enterprise of its kind in the region. The plant produces “smart” televisions based on a domestic operating system, which makes the project an important element of import substitution.

    On the territory of the SEZ “Lotus”, the company “Rybnye Korma” launched the first stage of the plant for the production of feed for industrial aquaculture – sturgeon, catfish, trout, salmon, sea bass and dorado. The production is focused on domestic raw materials, and the volume of feed production today is up to 25 thousand tons per year.

    The Krasnogorsky dairy plant has started operating in the Orenburg SEZ. The processing capacity is up to 150 tons of milk per day, the range is more than 50 types of dairy and fermented milk products. The products are supplied not only to retail chains in the Orenburg Region and neighboring regions, but also to Kazakhstan and China.

    The Petexpert plant, specializing in the production of high-quality pet food from natural raw materials, has opened in the Lipetsk SEZ. The enterprise produces up to 20 thousand tons of dry food per year and is developing regional exports.

    On the territory of the SEZ PPT “Alga” in Bashkortostan, the company “Azimut” launched an innovative plant for the production of road paint and cold plastic for marking. The production is located in the industrial park “Ufimsky” and is equipped with a modern laboratory and lines. The products are used in the implementation of federal and regional programs for the construction of transport infrastructure.

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – RT advertising campaign in EU territory – E-002651/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002651/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Pina Picierno (S&D)

    Billboards have recently popped up in a number of major Italian cities – namely Rome, Milan and Bologna – promoting documentaries by RT, formerly Russia Today, and encouraging people to watch them.

    The billboards have been put up in highly visible and busy parts of the cities, and use an extremely provocative slogan: ‘They ban the truth, we show it. Find RT docs in your city’.

    This Russian TV campaign clearly violates the EU sanctions against Kremlin propaganda on European soil, threatening our shared democratic values.

    In view of the above:

    • 1.Is the Commission aware of this dangerous and destabilising action to circumvent the EU sanctions against Russia?
    • 2.What steps will it take to prevent and tackle the dissemination of Russian propaganda in Italy, and to ensure effective application of the sanctions against those who are acting as avenues of influence for Putin’s regime?

    Submitted: 1.7.2025

    Last updated: 8 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI: MEXC Ventures Hosts Successful “Kickstart Your Future” Event at UNSW, Marking Australian Market Entry

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VICTORIA, Seychelles, July 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — MEXC Ventures successfully concluded its inaugural Australian event, “Kickstart Your Future at MEXC Ventures,” held at the University of New South Wales Roundhouse on 19 June 2025. The Web3 career-focused gathering brought together over 120 students, graduates, and industry professionals, marking a significant milestone in the global exchange’s expansion into the Australian market.

    Exceptional Student Response and Engagement
    The event exceeded expectations with remarkable attendance figures, drawing more participants than initially registered on the platform. More than 130 attended the event with high enthusiasm. The overwhelmingly positive response demonstrated a strong appetite among Australian students for Web3 career opportunities.

    “The turnout and engagement were incredible,” noted event organizers. “Students came with genuine interest in building careers in Web3, and many stayed long after the formal presentations to continue networking and discussions.”

    Industry Expertise Takes Center Stage
    The event featured three prominent speakers who delivered compelling presentations on blockchain fundamentals and career pathways. John, founder of Bitcoin Sydney, presented on Bitcoin principles including decentralization and financial sovereignty. Bob, founder of ETH Sydney, explored how Ethereum powers innovation across the ecosystem. Ray, a UNSW lecturer specializing in blockchain and fintech, provided academic insights into emerging technologies and career opportunities.

    The diverse panel discussions emphasized that Web3 offers career paths beyond traditional coding roles, spanning marketing, community management, governance, research, and content creation.

    Community Building and Brand Presence
    MEXC Ventures established a strong local presence through strategic brand activations, including custom Australian-themed merchandise featuring koala keyrings, prominent logo placement, and a dedicated photo wall. MEXC Ventures representative delivered an engaging presentation about career opportunities, emphasizing the global nature of Web3 work and the company’s commitment to empowering the next generation of blockchain talent.

    Attendees praised the event’s organization, quality of food and beverages, and the caliber of panel discussions, with many expressing interest in future MEXC Ventures initiatives.

    Talent Recruitment Initiative Launched
    Following the event’s success, MEXC Ventures opened student volunteer and ambassador recruitment for Australia, receiving numerous applications from interested participants. The company also highlighted its IgniteX initiative, a social impact program supporting blockchain education and developer empowerment, including the recently launched partnership with Superteam for the IgniteX Solana Talent Lab.

    Building Australia’s Web3 Future
    The event’s success signals strong momentum for MEXC Ventures’ Australian operations, with plans to expand programming and deepen university partnerships across the region. The enthusiastic student response and high-quality industry engagement demonstrate the readiness of Australia’s academic community to embrace Web3 innovation.

    “This is just the beginning,” said MEXC Ventures representatives. “We’re committed to creating more opportunities for Australian students to engage with the global Web3 ecosystem and build meaningful careers in this space.”

    About MEXC Ventures
    MEXC Ventures is a comprehensive fund under MEXC dedicated to driving innovation in the cryptocurrency sector through investments in L1/L2 ecosystems, strategic investments, M&A and incubation. Upholding the principle of “Empowering Growth Through Synergy,” MEXC Ventures is committed to supporting innovative ideas and active builders in crypto.

    MEXC Ventures is an investor and supporter of TON and Aptos, looking forward to staying at the forefront of TON and Aptos’ innovations and actively engaging with builders to drive ecosystem growth.

    For more information, visit: MEXC Ventures Website

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/4f9e0774-c26c-4a61-832e-7c4fafc92cce

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/9c1aca19-362f-467b-8a65-6a56f7488b39

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/7ff52ac7-6d34-44ea-899d-50ccbf473036

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/736db56d-aaa3-46d6-8085-200150f0c698

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: MEXC Hosts Exclusive Monaco Gala to Celebrate Prominent Global KOLs

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VICTORIA, Seychelles, July 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — MEXC, a leading global cryptocurrency exchange, hosted the prestigious Whale Journey Monte Carlo Award at the renowned One Monte-Carlo in the heart of Monaco on June 28, uniting the Web3 industry’s most influential voices for an unforgettable evening of recognition and collaboration.

    The exclusive event welcomed over 1,000 attendees, including 55 top-tier KOLs from around the world, making it one of the largest and most high-profile gatherings of crypto influencers in recent memory. Designed as both a celebration and a strategic milestone, the award ceremony reflected MEXC’s commitment to deepening its global partnerships and elevating its presence in the European market.

    Held in one of Europe’s most luxurious and iconic cities, the choice of Monaco carried strong symbolic meaning. Known as a global hub of prestige and innovation, Monaco represented MEXC’s ambition to deliver world-class experiences to its partners and users.

    The event brought together a group of Web3 leaders. With more than 55 global KOLs in attendance, the event served as a powerful network catalyst — fostering new relationships and sparking conversations that will shape the next phase of crypto adoption and ecosystem building. MEXC curated a luxury atmosphere that embodied its brand values of innovation, excellence, and impact. Guests enjoyed an evening filled with meaningful dialogue, entertainment, and recognition — all against the stunning backdrop of the French Riviera.

    A highlight of the night was the recognition of Carl The Moon, a globally renowned crypto influencer, as “Icon of the Year.” Carl is the founder of The Moon Show, a leading YouTube channel dedicated to Bitcoin and cryptocurrency content. Known for his accessible and insightful analysis, Carl covers daily Bitcoin price movements, key market news, and both technical and fundamental analysis. Carl was selected as the “Icon of the Year, receiving a $500,000 reward dedicated to recognizing and empowering the most influential figures in Web3. His award not only reflected his outstanding contributions to the crypto space but also marked a new chapter as he signed a strategic partnership with MEXC. This collaboration represents a major step forward in MEXC’s influencer strategy, reinforcing its efforts to align with the most trusted and dynamic voices in the industry.

    “Europe is a key market for MEXC,” said Head of Europe at MEXC. “This event reflects our deep commitment to the region and our vision to grow together with the top KOLs and builders shaping the Web3 future. With a strong global following, Carl has become one of the most influential voices in the Web3 and crypto community. We believe in long-term partnerships and will continue to support those who push the boundaries of innovation.”

    The Whale Journey Monte Carlo Award is part of MEXC’s broader effort to elevate its global brand through meaningful engagement with creators, thought leaders, and communities. As MEXC continues to grow its footprint in Europe and beyond, events like this serve as a powerful platform to honor excellence and build stronger bridges across the crypto ecosystem.

    About MEXC
    Founded in 2018, MEXC is committed to being “Your Easiest Way to Crypto”. Serving over 40 million users across 170+ countries, MEXC is known for its broad selection of trending tokens, frequent airdrop opportunities, and low trading fees. Our user-friendly platform is designed to support both new traders and experienced investors, offering secure and efficient access to digital assets. MEXC prioritizes simplicity and innovation, making crypto trading more accessible and rewarding.
    MEXC Official WebsiteXTelegramHow to Sign Up on MEXC

    For media inquiries, please contact clemence.c@mexc.com or media@mexc.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/86e99de6-0d7b-400d-8e1a-5efbea33eb26

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Eritrea: Asmara Music School Graduates 9 Students

    Source: APO


    .

    In its 26th commencement held on 6 July, the Asmara Music School graduated nine students who completed a three-year certificate program.

    Mr. Elias Woldemicael, Director of the School, highlighted the role of music in daily life and its power to motivate public participation in national affairs and promote nationalism. He expressed appreciation to Government institutions and individuals for their support and called on the graduates to continue developing their skills through practice.

    Mr. Tesfay Seium, Director General of Technical and Vocational Training at the Ministry of Education, expressed confidence that the students received quality musical education, citing the school’s long-standing experience in the field. He also praised the efforts of the teachers and school community for nurturing musicians who can contribute to the development of the country’s music industry.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Information, Eritrea.

    MIL OSI Africa

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Protecting our environment, creating opportunities 

    Source: Government of South Africa

    By Bernice Swarts 

    South Africa continues to face a host of interconnected socioeconomic and environmental challenges. These include the triple challenges of inequality, poverty, and unemployment, which are further compounded by climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution. 

    These threats are not theoretical — they are realities already affecting our families and communities, especially the most vulnerable. Yet, within these challenges lie opportunities, and our department is taking bold steps to transform policy into real, life-changing action.

    National Dialogue 

    Over the past 30 years, we have made great strides as a nation – expanding freedom, deepening democracy and building a better life for millions. Yet we also face persistent challenges: inequality, unemployment, social divisions and a growing disconnect between citizens and institution. In this spirit, President Cyril Ramaphosa has called for an inclusive National Dialogue – a people-led, society-wide process to reflect, reset and reimagine South Africa’s future. The National Dialogue is a chance for all South Africans, from all walks of life, to come together and help shape the next chapter of our democracy. 

    At this point I wish to also express my support for the planned National Dialogue as a forum to unite South Africans behind a shared vision and approach towards addressing structural challenges as a result of the apartheid legacy. 

    For the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, the National Dialogue presents an opportunity to engage meaningfully with all South Africans — particularly youth, women, and persons with disabilities — about the socioeconomic opportunities available within our sector. 
    We believe the outcomes of this important national engagement must translate into practical solutions that enable our people to contribute and benefit meaningfully from the work we do as both a department and a government.

    One Million Trees in One Day

    Under the Presidential Flagship “Ten Million Trees Programme,” our department has set out to do something remarkable – plant 1 million trees in one day under the rallying call, “My Tree, My Oxygen. Plant Yours Today,” we invite every South African — from schoolchildren to corporates — to participate.

    This isn’t just a symbolic act. It’s a movement for environmental justice and climate resilience. Trees are nature’s air purifiers, carbon sinks, and shelters for biodiversity. We are in the final year of this programme, and with renewed vigour, we’re mobilising every corner of society to ensure we meet and exceed our target.

    Small-Scale Fisheries – Voices from the Coastline

    Our oceans offer abundant resources, but for too long, small-scale fishers have been left behind. That’s why we convened the Small-Scale Fishing Co-operatives Summit in Mthatha in May. We heard firsthand about the struggles fishers face: poor infrastructure, limited market access, and lack of support.

    The summit wasn’t just a talk-shop. It was a collective turning point. We are now developing technical support packages, mentorship programmes, and policy enhancements to bring dignity and sustainability to the sector. When fishing co-ops thrive, entire coastal communities thrive.

    Tackling E-Waste: A Crisis Turned Opportunity

    Did you know that South Africa generates over 360,000 tons of electronic waste each year? Shockingly, only about 10% of that is properly recycled. The rest — from broken TVs to outdated cellphones — ends up in our landfills or is dumped illegally, contaminating soil and water and endangering our ecosystems.

    To combat this, the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) has rolled out a groundbreaking e-Waste Recycling Pilot Project. Launched in Limpopo, Mpumalanga and North West, the project has already collected over 30 tons of e-waste from rural municipalities. This isn’t just about waste removal — it’s about building a circular economy, holding producers accountable through Extended Producer Responsibility regulations, and creating green jobs.

    Importantly, this initiative comes as South Africa assumes the G20 Presidency, where we have identified the circular economy and waste management as priorities. 

    Supporting Communities Through Forestry

    Transformation in the Commercial Forestry Sector is no longer aspirational — it is underway. The DFFE is transferring eight state-owned plantations to local communities through Community Forestry Agreements. Alongside this, we’re providing post-settlement support, including business development, training, and job creation.

    This initiative alone is expected to generate over 7,000 work opportunities and 550 full-time jobs, especially in impoverished rural areas. It’s forestry with a human face — empowering people to become stewards of their own natural resources.

    Restoring Biodiversity, One Landscape at a Time

    Through the GEF7-funded Sustainable Land Management Project, we are actively reversing land degradation in Limpopo and the Northern Cape. We have trained 129 community champions, employed over 170 people, and cleared invasive species from vast grazing lands.

    Furthermore, our commitment to combating Desertification, Land Degradation and Drought (DLDD) is echoed on the global stage as a priority under our G20 Presidency.

    Infrastructure for Nature and People

    Our work isn’t only environmental — it’s infrastructural too. The Lowveld National Botanical Garden in Nelspruit, recently restored after flood damage, now boasts a new raised bridge and viewing deck. These are not mere cosmetic upgrades; they are symbols of resilience and investments in nature-based tourism that support SMMEs and jobs.

    Last year alone, the South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) implemented over 50 infrastructure projects, while its Kids in Gardens programme reached more than 153,000 young people with environmental education. We are seeding not only trees, but a new generation of conservationists.

    Building a Just, Green Future

    Our collective mission is clear: we must transition to an environmentally sustainable, economically inclusive society. And that requires partnerships — across sectors, provinces, and people.

    As we deliver on our budget priorities, let us rally behind bold, practical and transformative action — from planting a tree to recycling e-waste to supporting a community forestry project. These aren’t just departmental initiatives. They are building blocks of a just transition that leaves no one behind.

    Together, let us restore our land, empower our people, and green our future.

    *Bernice Swarts is the Deputy Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment

    MIL OSI Africa

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Upgrades underway at Coronation Park Splashpad08 July 2025 A series of improvements are being made to enhance the experience for visitors at the Splashpad in Coronation Park this summer. New shade structures and changing huts are being installed to make visits… Read more

    Source: Channel Islands – Jersey

    08 July 2025

    A series of improvements are being made to enhance the experience for visitors at the Splashpad in Coronation Park this summer. 

    New shade structures and changing huts are being installed to make visits more comfortable for all. 

    The enhancements aim to support family-friendly facilities and provide better on-site amenities. 

    To improve safety and help deter vandalism, CCTV will also be installed across the park. 

    • CCTV installation begins on Monday 7 July and will take approximately one week to complete 
    • Shade and changing facilities installation also starts on Monday 7 July, with work expected to last two weeks. 

    While part of the rear of the park will be closed off during this period, the Splashpad will remain open throughout the works. 

    These improvements reflect the ongoing commitment to maintain Coronation Park as a welcoming and safe space for all visitors.​

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New youth festival coming to York this summer

    Source: City of York

    Young people in York are invited to come along and enjoy the first ever Youth Festival, taking place in Rowntree Park on 23 July.

    The York Youth Festival is being hosted by York Youth Council supported by City of York Council’s Communities Team and will provide a fun, safe space for young people to enjoy music, activities and free food. The event will include a range of free fun activities including axe throwing, footie kickabout, zorbing and many more.

    The festival is being held following the “Make Your Mark” survey in 2024  where the Youth Council heard from over 5,000 young people in the city.

    Will, a member of the Youth Council, said:

    “Our survey revealed that the main priorities for young people in York are opportunities, media and culture, so our festival will help address these challenges, and we can’t wait until we hold the event!”

    To help support the event the Youth Council are working with Emerging Talent to promote local young musicians and youth bands that would like to perform, with slots available for 10 and 15 minute musical sets. The event also offers local community groups free space to hold stands, run activities and host games during the event. Activities will include Zorbing, sports, inflatable axe throw, badgemaking and more.

    Naomi, also a Youth Councillor, added:

    “It’s going to be an amazing event for young people from around the city, giving them a space to get together and have some fun. It’s been great to see how supportive organisations and community groups have been already, and we’re grateful for the council’s support via the Holiday, Activity and Food programme for providing the food and Emerging Talent for providing a valuable platform for young local musical acts.”

    Cllr Bob Webb, Executive Member for Children, Young People and Education, said:

    “It’s been really positive to see how passionate the young people of our city are about building strong relationships and experiencing new cultures.

    “This festival will provide a great space for York’s young people to come together and make new friends whilst building their independence.”

    The festival will take place at Rowntree Park from 2pm to 5pm on Wednesday 23 July. There’s no need to book, simply turn up and have fun! More information on the event can be found on the Youth Council website at www.york.gov.uk/york-youth-council/york-youth-festival.

    Anyone interested in a musical slot should get in touch with Emerging Talents by emailing Mark and Julie Ellerker at theelkyork@gmail.com.

    Anyone interested in providing an activity or stall should contact the Communities Officer, Shiona at yorkyouthcouncil@york.gov.uk.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI China: Documentary to present China’s resistance war against Japanese aggression

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

    The distributors of “Mountains and Rivers Bearing Witness” announced on Monday that the documentary will open in Chinese theaters on Aug. 15 to commemorate the 80th anniversary of victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression (1931-1945) and the World Anti-Fascist War.

    A poster for “Mountains and Rivers Bearing Witness.” [Image courtesy of Huaxia Film]

    According to the filmmakers, the documentary presents the first panoramic portrayal of China’s 14-year resistance war against Japanese aggression, highlighting the nation’s pivotal role as the Eastern Front during World War II through its sweeping account of the Chinese people’s heroic struggle.

    The film is produced by Huaxia Film Distribution and China Central Newsreel and Documentary Film Studio (Group). Throughout production, the team behind “Mountains and Rivers Bearing Witness” focused on both historical accuracy and artistic expression, balancing clear historical narrative with the preservation of national spirit. 

    Building upon extensive archival footage, the team used digital restoration techniques and artistic recreation to revive historical memories from sealed records and reconstruct pivotal moments in the Chinese people’s resistance.

    China will release various cultural works to mark the 80th anniversary of victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, according to the State Council Information Office at a press conference in Beijing on June 24. “Mountains and Rivers Bearing Witness” was highlighted at the press event as a major project, alongside the war epic film “Dongji Rescue” and TV series “Our Homeland.”

    The Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression was both the first to begin and the longest sustained conflict in the World Anti-Fascist War. With over 35 million Chinese soldiers and civilians killed or injured, this 14-year struggle culminated in victory over Japanese aggression and contributed to the complete defeat of global fascism. 

    China has designated Sept. 3 as Victory Day to commemorate Japan’s formal surrender on Sept. 2, 1945.

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI: Monexis Expands Global Reach with Advanced Multi-Access Trading Platform Tailored for All Levels

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, July 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — As retail and professional traders seek smarter, more personalized tools in today’s dynamic financial markets, Monexis has emerged as a powerful ally—offering a next-generation, multi-access trading platform designed to meet the needs of global investors. Combining real-time data, AI-powered insights, and educational support, Monexis is redefining digital trading through personalized strategies, transparent operations, and user-friendly technology across more than 20 countries.

    With a focus on customized strategies, educational empowerment, and cutting-edge technology, Monexis is redefining what it means to support traders at every level. Headquartered in New York and serving clients in over 20 countries, the company continues to expand its global footprint while maintaining a sharp focus on individual investor success.

    A Tailored Approach to Trading Success

    Monexis distinguishes itself through personalized trading strategies tailored to each client’s financial goals, experience level, and risk profile. Whether a trader is seeking long-term portfolio growth, short-term gains, or diversification through cryptocurrency, Monexis works closely with them to design strategies that are both practical and performance-driven.

    This individual approach ensures that every user has a clear path to follow, one that is based on logic, market data, and their own financial objectives.

    Technology Meets Simplicity on the Monexis Platform
    At the heart of Monexis’s offering is its intuitive and feature-rich trading platform, where technology meets investment insight. The platform is equipped with:

    • Real-time market data
    • Advanced charting and analytical tools
    • Integrated portfolio management
    • Smart strategy builders

    Users can easily monitor their trading activity, analyze performance, and execute trades efficiently. The seamless interface is designed for both beginners and experienced traders, minimizing complexity while maximizing functionality.

    The platform also incorporates customized insights and personalized dashboards, giving traders a competitive edge in fast-moving markets.

    Education and Support as Strategic Tools
    Monexis recognizes that knowledge is a powerful asset in trading. That’s why it offers a comprehensive educational ecosystem to help traders build confidence and sharpen their decision-making. 

    The resource library includes:

    • Text lessons for beginners and advanced traders
    • On-demand video tutorials (VODs)
    • Cryptocurrency fundamentals and strategies
    • Guides on fundamental and technical analysis
    • Tools for trend identification, risk management, and market prediction

    These resources are supported by 24/5 technical support and access to real-time market signals, ensuring traders are never left without guidance when they need it most.

    Whether you’re navigating your first trade or refining an advanced investment strategy, Monexis ensures that education and support are always within reach.

    Globally Connected and Regionally Aware
    Monexis operates in a growing list of countries across the Americas, Europe, Asia, and Africa, including the United States, India, Brazil, Germany, South Africa, Japan, Australia, and the United Kingdom. This global reach allows the company to deliver culturally and regionally tailored insights while maintaining access to up-to-date international financial news, events, and policy updates.

    Users benefit from detailed market reports, trend analysis, and coverage of global economic movements, all aimed at helping them make informed, timely decisions.

    Account Types Designed for Every Trader
    Monexis understands that traders have different needs and investment capacities. To accommodate this, the platform offers four distinct account tiers, each with its own features and benefits:

    Basic Account (€250 minimum)

    • 24/5 tech support
    • 48-hour withdrawal time
    • Ideal for beginners looking to explore trading

    Standard Account (€2,500 minimum)

    • 24-hour withdrawals
    • 1:100 leverage
    • Bonuses up to 50%
    • Signals and basic consultations

    VIP Account (€10,000 minimum)

    • 12-hour withdrawals
    • 1:200 leverage
    • Bonuses up to 100%
    • Enhanced signals, consultations, and insurance
    • Personal account manager

    Prime Account (€50,000 minimum)

    • 3-hour withdrawals
    • 1:400 leverage
    • Bonuses up to 150%
    • Full access to all tools, training, and personal services

    Each account level is structured to grow with the trader, offering increasingly valuable services and faster execution as investment levels increase.

    Trusted Operations and Transparent Compliance
    Monexis Inc. is legally registered and operates under the laws of the State of New York, United States. The platform adheres to strict AML (Anti-Money Laundering) and KYC (Know Your Customer) protocols to ensure secure, transparent, and compliant operations.
    All users are encouraged to review the platform’s privacy policy, client agreement, AML/KYC policy, and risk notices before opening an account.

    Monexis at a Glance

    • Headquarters: New York, United States
    • Website: www.monexis.org
    • Customer Support: +1 (800) 441‑7760
    • Email: support@monexis.org
    • Global Reach: Clients in over 20 countries
    • Platform Features: Real-time data, technical tools, personalized dashboards
    • Education Resources: VODs, guides, analysis tools, calculators, news
    • Support: 24/5 tech assistance and multilingual customer service
    • Compliance: Full adherence to U.S. regulations, AML/KYC policies

    Conclusion
    Monexis brings together the essential pillars of modern trading: personalized strategy, technological excellence, continuous education, and global insight. With a flexible account structure, round-the-clock support, and a platform designed to empower users of all levels, Monexis positions itself as a reliable and forward-focused trading solution for the global investor community.

    To learn more or to get started, visit www.monexis.org.
    Disclaimer: This press release is provided by the Monexis. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice. Investing involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. In the event of any legal claims or charges against this article, we accept no liability or responsibility.

    Legal Disclaimer: This media platform provides the content of this article on an “as-is” basis, without any warranties or representations of any kind, express or implied. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information presented herein. Any concerns, complaints, or copyright issues related to this article should be directed to the content provider mentioned above.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/6c7f295b-3cdc-4f79-a007-b281fe2e86d5

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Russia: GUU professor discusses staff shortage on OSN TV

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Official website of the State –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    In the program “It’s Worth Thinking About” on the Public News Service (OSN) TV channel, experts discussed the acute problem of personnel shortage that the Russian economy is facing. One of the speakers was Vladimir Volokh, professor of the Department of Public Administration and Political Technologies at the State University of Management, member of the Council under the President of the Russian Federation for Interethnic Relations and the Public Council under the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia, and a specialist in migration policy.

    The discussion touched upon the reasons for the current situation, including demographic factors, the outflow of qualified specialists abroad, and insufficient training of personnel within the country. The participants of the program considered various scenarios for solving the problem, including attracting labor resources from abroad, improving the qualifications and retraining of Russian specialists, as well as stimulating the birth rate and supporting young families.

    Professor Volokh shared his expert opinion on the role of migration policy in solving the problem of personnel shortage, emphasizing the need to create favorable conditions for attracting qualified foreign specialists and their successful integration into Russian society. He also noted the importance of combating illegal migration and protecting the rights of labor migrants.

    The program featured various points of view on the problem of personnel shortage and possible ways to solve it. The participants in the discussion agreed on the need for a comprehensive approach, including measures of economic, social and migration policy.

    The full recording of the program “It’s Worth Thinking About” on the topic “Shortage of Personnel: How to Save the Russian Economy” can be viewed on the website of the Public News Service.

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI: Unlock Massive Savings During Amazon Prime Day with ASUS

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    KEY POINTS

    • Incredible value: Save up to $700 or 53% off during Amazon Prime Day, the best time to upgrade your tech.
    • Something for everyone: Everyday laptops, gaming rigs, Chromebooks, desktops, and all-in-ones are all on sale.
    • Limited-time event: These exclusive deals run July 8 to 11, don’t miss out.

    TORONTO, July 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — ASUS today announced a lineup of unbeatable deals for Amazon Prime Day, running from July 8 to July 11. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your everyday laptop, level up your gaming setup, or find the perfect device for work or school, ASUS has you covered, and at incredible prices. This limited-time event offers savings of up to $700 and discounts as deep as 53% off across some of our most popular models. Here’s a look at some of the top deals, sorted by category:

    Everyday Laptops: Powerful, portable, and perfect for productivity, entertainment, or schoolwork.

    • ASUS Zenbook A14 (UX3407QA-AS51-CA)
      Was: $1,399 | Now: $1,229 – Save $170
      Ultra-portable 14-inch laptop that weighs under 1kg, crafted from durable Ceraluminum for a premium, featherlight feel. Powered by a Snapdragon® X Processor, with up to 32 hours of battery life and a vibrant OLED display, it’s built for all-day productivity on the go.
    • ASUS Vivobook S14 Flip (TP3402VA-AS71T-CA)
      Was: $1,299 | Now: $949 – Save $250
      A versatile 2-in-1 laptop with a responsive 14″ FHD touchscreen, 360° hinge, and Intel® Core i7-13620H performance, 1TB SSD and 16GB of RAM, perfect for everyday productivity, creativity, entertainment and study.
    • ASUS Vivobook Go 15 (E1504FA-AS52-CA)
      Was: $799 | Now: $549 – Save $250
      Versatile everyday laptop featuring a 15.6-inch Full HD display, AMD Ryzen 5 7520U processor, and a sleek, modern design. With military-grade durability, fast charging, and ample storage, it’s built to handle school, work, and entertainment with ease.
    • ASUS Vivobook S15 (S5507QA-DB71-CB)
      Was: $1,499 | Now: $949.99 – Save $549
      Copilot+ PC powered by the Snapdragon® X Elite processor, delivering next-gen AI performance in a sleek, lightweight chassis. With a stunning 15.6″ 3K 120Hz OLED display, long-lasting battery, and premium build, it’s designed for seamless productivity and creativity on the go.

    Gaming Laptops: High-performance machines built to handle AAA titles and esports alike.

    • TUF Gaming A15 (FA507UV-AS91-CA)
      Was: $1,799 | Now: $1,299 – Save $500
      Engineered for durability and power, it delivers powerful gaming performance with an AMD Ryzen 9 8945HS processor and NVIDIA® GeForce RTX 4060 GPU. It features a 144Hz Full HD display, military-grade toughness, and enhanced cooling to handle intense gaming sessions with ease.
    • TUF Gaming F17 (FX707VI-NS74)
      Was: $2,299 | Now: $1,599 – Save $700
      Dominate your games with a 17.3” FHD display, NVIDIA® GeForce RTX 4070 GPU, and Intel® Core i9 processor. This beast is made for gamers who want maximum screen space and serious performance.
    • ROG Strix G16 (2024) (G614JV-AS71-CA)
      Was: $1,999 | Now: $1,599 – Save $400
      High-performance gaming laptop featuring an Intel® Core i7-13650HX processor and NVIDIA® GeForce RTX 4060 GPU, designed for serious gamers and creators. With a 165Hz 16-inch display, advanced cooling, and customizable RGB lighting, it delivers smooth, immersive gameplay and bold style.
    • ROG Strix G18 (2025) (G815LR-AS96-CA)
      Was: $3,799 | Now: $3,499 – Save $300
      Gaming powerhouse equipped with an Intel® Core Ultra 9 Processor and NVIDIA® GeForce RTX 5070Ti GPU for the latest and greatest performance, delivering elite-level performance. Featuring an 18-inch 240Hz Nebula Display, advanced cooling, and bold RGB design, it’s built to dominate AAA titles and heavy creative workloads.

    Chromebooks: Affordable, fast, and ideal for everyday browsing and classroom tasks.

    • ASUS Chromebook CX14 (CX1405CKA-AS01-CB)
      Was: $369 | Now: $229 – Save $140
      Stylish, reliable and affordable 14-inch laptop featuring an Intel Processor N4500 and a sleek, minimalist design ideal for students and everyday tasks. With a Full HD NanoEdge display, all-day battery life, and ChromeOS for fast, secure performance, it’s perfect for browsing, streaming, and getting work done anywhere.
    • ASUS Chromebook CX1 (CX1500CKA-DH03-CB)
      Was: $399 | Now: $189 – Save $210 – 53% off
      Combines a large 15.6-inch Full HD NanoEdge display with an Intel Celeron N4500 processor for smooth, everyday multitasking. With a spill-resistant keyboard, military-grade durability, and up to 11 hours of battery life, it’s a dependable companion for school, work, or casual use.
    • ASUS Chromebook Plus CX15 (CX1505CTA-AS31-CB)
      Was: $499 | Now: $349 – Save $150
      Enhanced productivity with a 15.6-inch Full HD display, Intel® Core i3 processor, and double the performance and memory of standard Chromebooks. With AI-powered tools, built-in Google apps, and a sleek design, it’s ideal for school, work, and everything in between.

    Desktops & All-in-Ones: Get work done faster with stylish and efficient ASUS desktop systems.

    • ASUS V440 All-in-One (V440VAK-DSI38512-CB)
      Was: $899 | Now: $599 – Save $300
      Compact, business-ready 24” All-in-One desktop powered by an Intel® Core i3-1315U processor and designed for efficient multitasking and everyday office workloads. With extensive connectivity, and a tool-free chassis for easy upgrades, it’s a reliable and flexible solution for modern workspaces.
    • ASUS ExpertCenter P500 (P500MVC-DSI58512-CB)
      Was: $899 | Now: $649 – Save $250
      powerful mini tower desktop built for business, featuring an Intel® Core i5-13420H processor and enterprise-grade reliability. With comprehensive connectivity, enhanced security features, and tool-free access for easy upgrades, it’s the ideal choice for productivity-focused professionals.

    Discover even more ASUS deals across a wide range of categories, all available for a limited time. Head to https://ca.asus.click/ASUS_Amazon_Prime_Day to explore the full lineup and score your perfect tech upgrade. Limited-time deals, while supplies last.

    NOTES TO EDITORS

    ASUS Amazon Prime Deals: https://ca.asus.click/ASUS_Amazon_Prime_Day

    ASUS: https://ca.asus.click/ASUS_CA_Homepage

    ASUS Zenbook A14: https://ca.asus.click/Zenbook_A14_Prime_Day

    ASUS Vivobook S14 Flip: https://ca.asus.click/Vivobook_S14_Flip_Prime_Day

    ASUS Vivobook Go 15: https://ca.asus.click/Vivobook_Go_15_Prime_Day

    ASUS Vivobook S15: https://ca.asus.click/Vivobook_S15_Prime_Day

    ASUS TUF Gaming A15: https://ca.asus.click/TUF_Gaming_A15_Prime_Day

    ASUS TUF Gaming F17: https://ca.asus.click/TUF_Gaming_F17_Prime_Day

    ROG Strix G16 (2024): https://ca.asus.click/Strix_G16_Prime_Day

    ROG Strix G18 (2025): https://ca.asus.click/Strix_G18_Prime_Day

    ASUS Chromebook CX14: https://ca.asus.click/Chromebook_CX14_Prime_Day

    ASUS Chromebook CX1: https://ca.asus.click/Chromebook_CX1_Prime_Day

    ASUS Chromebook Plus CX15: https://ca.asus.click/Chromebook_Plus_CX15_Prime_day

    ASUS V440VA AiO: https://ca.asus.click/ASUS_V440VA_AiO_Prime_Day

    ASUS ExpertCenter P500: https://ca.asus.click/ExpertCenter_P500_Prime_Day

    ASUS Pressroom: http://press.asus.com

    ASUS Canada Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/asuscanada/

    ASUS Canada Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/asus_ca

    ASUS Canada YouTube: https://ca.asus.click/youtube

    ASUS Global X (Twitter): https://www.x.com/asus

    About ASUS

    ASUS is a global technology leader that provides the world’s most innovative and intuitive devices, components, and solutions to deliver incredible experiences that enhance the lives of people everywhere. With its team of 5,000 in-house R&D experts, the company is world-renowned for continuously reimagining today’s technologies. Consistently ranked as one of Fortune’s World’s Most Admired Companies, ASUS is also committed to sustaining an incredible future. The goal is to create a net zero enterprise that helps drive the shift towards a circular economy, with a responsible supply chain creating shared value for every one of us.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/3ce81baf-7ee8-46dc-8bff-1a3eb55db40c

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: GCA Annual Conference 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    GCA Annual Conference 2025

    Registration is now open for the GCA’s 2025 Annual Conference which will take place on Tuesday 30 September.

    The conference will bring together the 14 large retailers, suppliers and industry experts to reflect on changes to the groceries sector, ongoing challenges, support available for suppliers and future priorities. There will also be a session from YouGov taking a closer look at the GCA’s 2025 annual survey results.

    The conference is free to attend, and participants can join online or in person.

    How to register

    In person

    To express an interest to attend in person, in Central London, please complete this form.

    Please be aware that spaces are limited for in-person attendance. If we can offer you an in-person place, we will send you an email confirmation with further information.

    Online

    Alternatively, you can register to join online.

    If you have any questions about the conference, please email enquiries@groceriescode.gov.uk.

    Updates to this page

    Published 8 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI Russia: NSU Startup Studio Presented Its Projects for the First Time in the Form of the Artificial Intelligence Alley

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Novosibirsk State University –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    The Alley of Friendship of Artificial and Natural Intelligence was a horizontal space designed as a real alley: it had trees and a waterfall, and an interactive exhibition was inscribed into such a landscape. The alley symbolized a walk of an ordinary person through the world of artificial intelligence and modern technologies that are available on the market and that can be tried right here and now. In total, over 1,000 people walked through the alley during the day of work – from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.: each of the visitors got involved in the interactive activities presented at the stands. A separate bright component of the exhibition was the game “Startup Race”, which the NSU Startup Studio presented to a wide audience and tested in action.

    The alley included the following technologies and developments:

    1. Emotion analyzer

    At the reception for registering guests of Smart Picnic there was a special camera with an interactive screen. Anyone could come up, make a face, and the screen would display the emotion they were experiencing.

    The guests were particularly impressed by this invention: everyone had fun and amusement checking how well their faces were able to express emotions. The technology also has medical applications for diagnosing diseases associated with incorrect display of emotions on the face.

    2. Virtual assistant

    After the first stop, guests were met by a virtual animator from the NSU Startup Studio, who announced all the technologies created using artificial intelligence.

    3. Emulator of human personality in voice

    NSU students who received a grant created a voice simulator that imitated the personality of famous people. Visitors to the alley interacted with the simulator through their voice, trying to sell it a pen or ask a question, like in the movie “The Wolf of Wall Street.”

    4. Smile analyzer

    The next stand was a smile analyzer, developed jointly with a doctor from the Rostov Medical University. The device, using a patented method, gave recommendations on the health of teeth and the oral cavity based on a smile analysis.

    5. Game “Academ Dreams”

    This stand offered to immerse oneself in the world of Akademgorodok in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Players could become virtual residents of the science town and interact with its inhabitants, creating a copy of themselves in the virtual space.

    6. Swaid Monitor

    It was a photoplethysmograph that recorded heart rate readings and constructed a stress index using the Baevsky method. Together with the staff of the Psychology department of the Institute of Medicine and Medical Technologies of NSU, the game “Calm Down” was developed, in which participants put on a bracelet and, while meditating, watched the stress line decrease on the screen. The monitor helped participants achieve a meditative state even in a crowd.

    7. Map of emotions

    Each of the visitors to the alley and the Picnic sites in general could mark themselves on the map and indicate what emotion they are currently experiencing in real time. The development is also intended for deep behavioral research: for example, what emotion and how intensely a particular group of people in a particular location experiences.

    8. Games with artificial intelligence

    Several separate stands presented interactive games in which visitors fought against AI – “Crocodile” and “Riddles”. Separately, an interactive demo board was presented with photographs of how people interact with inventions at the exhibition.

    9. Game “Startup Race”

    The development was first presented at the alley and was tested in real time.

    Of course, not all projects of the NSU Startup Studio were presented at the Alley, since among its participants there are more than 30 residents with their own ideas and projects.

    — The Artificial Intelligence Exhibition became a kind of “frontier” for us, which could be organized at the Smart Picnic site. On the one hand, the alley became our product and even an element of the interactive show, and, on the other hand, it was also a challenge for our residents and partners — they had to show their technology to people in extreme conditions and, despite everything, think through to the smallest detail how to present a demo version of the product, what to say in the opening speech, at what points it is worth speeding up production in order to show a finished product, and not just developments and an idea. That is, the Artificial Intelligence Alley became a powerful incentive for our residents to work, — said Evgeny Ivanov, a representative of the NSU Startup Studio and managing partner of the Coion investment syndicate.

    According to Evgeniy, some startups actually showed high growth rates thanks to their participation in the Alley.

    — One of the projects, Lexis Voice, the very same stand with a voice imitator and the question “Sell a pen”, showed a good result. The team accelerated in all directions, from development to sales market. Thus, in a month and a half, the project’s revenue increased 5 times, because there was a strict deadline – participation in the exhibition, and a clear understanding of what should be ready by this time, — summed up Evgeny Ivanov.

    The next step in popularizing innovative entrepreneurship after the Artificial Intelligence Alley is the Startup Unit school, which started in July, where anyone can feel like a budding entrepreneur. After the school, in the fall, all students will be able to start the NSU acceleration program .catalyst, and residents of the NSU startup studio will also be able to take part in the Siberian Venture Fair, where they will present projects in the format of idea boards. The goal of all these projects is one – to bring to life the ideas and developments of students.

    — The fair is really one of the elements of the chain, which the Startup Studio is developing with its residents. Ultimately, all this is so that innovators launch some product, a viable business, and then return to the state the resources that are invested in them in the form of various subsidies, grant support that they can attract. Our task is for our residents to “spend” these funds correctly and as a result, a finished product is obtained that is needed by someone and will be sold, — emphasized Alexey Starostin, Director of the NSU Startup Studio.

    Material prepared by: Tatyana Ershova, NSU press service

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Young musicians set to shine at Wulfrun Hall this summer

    Source: City of Wolverhampton

    Wolverhampton Summer Sounds is a four-night celebration of musical talent taking place at the Wulfrun Hall, University of Wolverhampton at The Halls, from next Tuesday 15 July to Friday 18 July.

    Over 4 nights, 400 members of the Youth Choir, Concert String Orchestra, Keyboard Ensemble, Fusion Fives, Big Top SEND Ensemble, Bhangra Fusion Percussion, the Primary and Secondary Rock ‘n’ Pop groups, Guitar Group, Concert Wind Band, New Wind, Early Strings, New Strings, Jazz Big Band, Youth Wind Orchestra and Youth Orchestra will take to the stage to perform in front of family, friends and the public.

    Councillor Jacqui Coogan, the City of Wolverhampton Council’s Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Education, said: “This concert series will be a powerful showcase of the dedication, creativity and spirit of Wolverhampton’s young musicians. Their talent deserves to be heard and celebrated on the big stage and we hope as many families as possible can join us for these very special performances.”

    The Summer Sounds concert series has been made possible thanks to a generous donation of £10,000 donation from the Friends of Wolverhampton Music Service. They will be raising further funds with a raffle each evening, with the top prize being a CCTV security system, worth £220, donated by Assa Abloy.

    Head of Service Ciaran O’Donnell said: “We provide our concerts entirely free of charge because we think it is really important that parents and supporters get to hear the achievements of their young musicians.

    “And it’s crucial for the performers that they play to a big audience and in the best possible venues, as that provides them with the most authentic experience.

    “We are overwhelmed by this generous donation from the Friends which will enable us to make it a summer to remember for our young musicians.”

    Wolverhampton Music Service provides high quality tuition and musical opportunities for youngsters from schools across the city, including the chance to perform with its flagship groups, Wolverhampton Youth Orchestra and Wolverhampton Youth Wind Orchestra. To find out more, please visit Wolverhampton Music Service.

    The Music Service will be recruiting new members in September – visit Music School – Parents & Pupils Music School Groups for information about each of the groups. 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI: Epiq Bolsters its Leadership of Class Action Administration in the UK and Europe with the Acquisition of Case Pilots

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, July 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Epiq announced today that it has acquired Case Pilots, one of the UK’s leading claims administration companies.

    Epiq is the world’s leading class actions and claims administrator and the largest in North America. The firm’s stellar reputation is evidenced through the successful management and distribution of some of the largest settlements in history. With over 30 years’ experience, clients rely on the deep bench of Epiq experts for guidance in driving cases forward and helping to deliver positive outcomes in the highest-profile and most-complex collective actions in the world.

    Epiq has been supporting Class Representatives and law firms bringing collective actions in the UK since the Consumer Rights Act was passed in 2015. In addition to building on the expertise and technology solutions delivered to clients, this acquisition expands Epiq’s offering in the market to include the administration of group litigation, reinforcing its position as a global leader in the space.

    Case Pilots employees have joined Epiq, including Co-founder and CEO Clare Ducksbury, who will now serve as Senior Vice President, Epiq Class Action Solutions Europe, and Co-founder and Chief Information Officer Clinton Smith, who will join Epiq’s product development team in a leadership role. The Case Pilots team has a solid track record of providing strategic consulting advice to law firms tackling the challenges posed by collective actions in the UK and Continental Europe.

    Nicole Hamann, President of the Class Action, Remediation, and Mass Tort business at Epiq, said, “The acquisition of Case Pilots marks a significant milestone and reinforces and expands the ability of Epiq to deliver claims management services to clients across the globe by strengthening our foothold in the UK and Europe. The excellent reputations of Clare, Clinton, and the Case Pilots team in the UK market is well-earned and we look forward to what we will accomplish together for our clients.”

    Commenting on the acquisition, Clare Ducksbury said, “We are delighted to be joining forces with Epiq, who is the global leader in this space, and we look forward to expanding the breadth of technology solutions and expertise that we can offer to our much-valued clients. Our team has a strong track record of supporting group and collective actions in the UK and Europe, and we are all very excited about what’s ahead.”

    Epiq Class Action and Claims Solutions operates globally including in the US, UK, Canada, Australia and Europe. Epiq has been ranked first among claims administrators by Institutional Shareholder Services Securities Class Action Services for the last seven years, having administered most of the largest US class actions settlements exceeding a total of $35 billion in value. Leveraging advanced technology and rigorous data security protocols, Epiq works with the Courts, settling parties and class members to efficiently and securely manage and distribute class action and mass tort settlements.

    About Epiq
    Epiq, a technology and services leader, takes on large-scale and complex tasks for corporate legal departments, law firms, and business professionals by integrating people, process, technology, and data. Clients rely on Epiq to streamline legal and compliance, settlement, and business administration workflows to drive efficiency, minimize risk, and improve cost savings. With a presence in 19 countries, our values define who we are and how we partner with clients and communities. Learn how Epiq and its 6,100 people worldwide create meaningful change at www.epiqglobal.com.

    Press Contact
    Carrie Trent
    Epiq, Senior Director of Communications and Public Relations
    Carrie.Trent@epiqglobal.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/9540abc1-aa7c-4424-ad45-209f74f2fefc

    The MIL Network