NewzIntel.com

Category: Finance

  • MIL-OSI Security: South Florida Tax Preparer, Two Others Charged with Conspiring to Defraud Covid-19 Relief Program

    Source: United States Department of Justice (National Center for Disaster Fraud)

    MIAMI –The last of three defendants made his initial appearance in Miami federal court yesterday to face an indictment charging the men with conspiracy to commit wire fraud while scheming to fraudulently obtain Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans.

    PPP loans were intended to provide economic relief to small businesses during the Covid-19 pandemic. According to the allegations in the indictment, between May 2020 and March 2021, Guillermo Lopez Carrazana, Christian Mendoza, and Max Alberto Mera Ulloa, all residents of Miami-Dade County, conspired to submit over 165 false and fraudulent PPP loan applications to the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), which administered the emergency relief program under the CARES Act. The PPP was designed to help businesses maintain payroll and cover essential expenses during the pandemic. It is alleged that the defendants received $6.5 million in COVID relief money through the fraud.  

    It is alleged that Carrazana, Mendoza (a tax preparer) and Ulloa owned and operated various businesses, including G LUX LLC, Global Tax & Accounting Group Corp, CM Logistics Systems LLC and Max Mera Corporation. Along with others, the defendants allegedly submitted fraudulent loan applications that misrepresented payroll and employee information to obtain large sums of money under false pretenses.

    The indictment further alleges that the defendants engaged in a kickback scheme, offering and receiving payments in exchange for referring additional individuals to participate in the fraudulent loan applications. It is also alleged that the defendants and the other fraudsters did not use the proceeds of the PPP loans for their intended purpose, instead they used the funds to enrich themselves.

    U.S. Attorney Hayden P. O’Byrne for the Southern District of Florida, Special Agent in Charge Brett D. Skiles of the FBI, Miami Field Office, and Special Agent in Charge Emmanuel Gomez of the IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI), Miami Field Office made the announcement.

    FBI Miami and IRS-CI, Miami Field Office are investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Roger Cruz is prosecuting the case.

    An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or at http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov under case number 25-cr-20178.

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    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Texas, Virginia, And Florida Residents Charged In Drug Trafficking Conspiracy

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announces the  unsealing of an indictment charging Esequiel Maldonado (46, Texas), Martin DeJesus Maldonado, Jr. (46, Fort Myers), Ron Ramirez, Jr. (23, Texas), and Schuyler Jordan Thompson (31, Virginia) with conspiracy, distribution of 500 grams or more of cocaine, and use of communication facilities in the commission of drug trafficking crimes. If convicted on all counts,Esequiel Maldonado and Martin DeJesus Maldonado, Jr., because of their prior convictions for serious drug felonies, face a minimum penalty of 10 years, up to life, in federal prison. Ramirez and Thompson each face a minimum penalty of 5 years, up to 44 years, in federal prison.   

    According to court documents, each of the charged individuals played a distinct and critical role in the conspiracy. Esequiel Maldonado was the Texas-based leader of the drug trafficking organization (DTO). He authorized sales of kilogram-quantities of cocaine, served as the DTO’s broker, and set cocaine prices. Ramirez handled logistics and communications. On behalf of Esequiel Maldonado, Ramirez recruited and paid a courier, Thompson. Ramirez arranged for Thompson to fly to Florida and get cocaine supplied by (according to Martin DeJesus Maldonado, Jr.) Los Chapitos, known to law enforcement as a faction of the Sinaloa Cartel, and to deliver it to Martin DeJesus Maldonado, Jr. The cocaine was then distributed by Martin DeJesus Maldonado, Jr. in the Middle District of Florida. Martin DeJesus Maldonado, Jr. also arranged for drug proceeds to be paid back to Esequiel Maldonado. 

    An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.

    This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office, with assistance from the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Lee County Sheriff’s Office, and the Virginia State Police. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Christopher F. Murray.

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: India-based Amazon scam leads to almost a $1 million dollar loss for elderly victim in Missoula

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    MISSOULA – A man originally from India accused of stealing almost $1 million from the elderly appeared in federal court on charges on Wednesday, May 14, 2025, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.

    Zabi Ullah Mohammed, 29, had an initial appearance on a complaint charging him with conspiracy to commit wire fraud, wire fraud, and impersonating a federal agent. If convicted, Mohammed faces a maximum of 20 years of imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and at least 3 years of supervised release.

    U.S. Magistrate Judge Kathleen L. DeSoto presided. Mohammed was detained pending further proceedings.

    The government alleged in the criminal complaint that in April 2025 Mohammed and others called an elderly victim in Missoula, Montana, posing as an Amazon representative and inquiring whether the victim purchased computer equipment. When the victim said she did not purchase any equipment, the Amazon representative claimed the victim’s identity was stolen and transferred the victim to the “Social Security Department” and the “U.S. Marshal.” The “U.S. Marshal” said the money from the victim’s bank accounts needed to be “legalized,” and an agent showed up on multiple occasions to pick up cash and gold from the victim’s residence. Law enforcement caught Mohammed when he returned to the victim’s house a final time. After searching Mohammed’s vehicle, law enforcement found airline tickets, car rental documents, and a bag containing approximately $68,987 in cash.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan G. Weldon is prosecuting the case. The Federal Bureau of Investigation and Missoula County Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation.

    A complaint is merely an accusation and a defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

    PACER case reference. 25-40.

    The progress of cases may be monitored through the U.S. District Court Calendar and the PACER system. To establish a PACER account, which provides electronic access to review documents filed in a case, please visit http://www.pacer.gov/register.html. To access the District Court’s calendar, please visit https://ecf.mtd.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/PublicCalendar.pl

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Tennessee man sentenced to 5 years of probation for selling unapproved drugs

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    MISSOULA – A Greenville, Tennessee man who admitted selling unapproved drugs made from ingredients purchased from China was sentenced today to five years of probation, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.

    Tyler Jordan Hall, 31, pleaded guilty in January 2025 to introduction of unapproved drugs in interstate commerce.

    U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen presided.

    “Tyler Hall manufactured unapproved drugs in an unregulated lab using ingredients he bought from China. And he sold those drugs to unwitting customers based on his false claims that the products were approved by the FDA. That behavior, which can result in serious health problems for users, will not be tolerated. I want to thank the FDA for investigating and Assistant U.S. Attorney Shannon Clarke for prosecuting the matter as we continue to strive to protect Montanans and other Americans from this kind of deceitful and dangerous conduct.” U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.

    “Illegally manufacturing and selling unapproved drugs outside the legitimate U.S. supply chain can present serious health risks to those who buy and use them,” said Robert Iwanicki, Special Agent in Charge, FDA Office of Criminal Investigations Los Angeles Field Office. “Furthermore, knowingly misleading customers and the FDA by making false claims about the nature and legitimacy of the products shows a reckless disregard for FDA regulations and for the lives and well-being of consumers. FDA will continue to pursue and bring to justice those who would disregard and jeopardize public health and safety by selling misbranded drugs.”

    The government alleged in court documents that from June 17, 2020, through March 2022, Tyler Hall operated a business known as Rat’s Army, LLC, which imported, created, bottled, and labeled drugs. Hall marketed the substances to individuals in the bodybuilding and fitness community to increase muscle mass, reduce body fat, and counter the unwanted side effects of other bodybuilding drugs. Many of the substances were not safe for human consumption except under the supervision of a practitioner licensed to administer prescription drugs. Some drugs were of similar composition to FDA-approved drugs that require special boxed warnings in their labeling emphasizing serious potential side effects, including pulmonary embolism.

    During the timeframe noted above, Hall obtained proceeds from Rat’s Army of approximately $3.8 million. The income was generated, at least in part, from the sale of unapproved drugs, including Raloxifene, Tamoxifen, and Pramipexole.

    Hall knowingly took steps to mislead and defraud United States regulatory agencies, including the FDA, about the true nature of the products he was selling on the Rat’s Army website. Specifically, he attempted to conceal the nature of his products by falsely portraying them as “research chemicals” and “not for human consumption,” despite knowing and intending that the products were for ingestion by humans to affect the structure and function of their bodies.

    Hall also took steps to mislead and defraud the consumers to whom he was offering the sale of these drugs by posting misleading Certificates of Analysis on the website to convince consumers Rat’s Army was manufacturing products which were legitimate and safe to consume.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Shannon Clarke prosecuted the case. The investigation was conducted by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration Office of Criminal Investigation.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Second Owner of Local Real Estate Investment Company Pleads Guilty for Role in Fraud Conspiracy

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    PORTLAND, Ore.—The owner of a local real estate investment company pleaded guilty today for his role in an $18 million fraud scheme, joining his business partner and co-owner of the company who pleaded guilty in March 2025.

    Robert D. Christensen, 55, of Sherwood, Oregon, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud and money laundering.

    Previously, on March 11, 2025, Christensen’s partner and co-owner of the investment company, Anthony M. Matic, 55, of Damascus, Oregon, also pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud.

    According to court documents, from approximately January 2019 through June 2023, Christensen and Matic devised and carried out a scheme wherein they convinced individual investors to fund the purchase and renovation of undervalued residential real estate properties. After renovating the properties, Christensen and Matic claimed they would rent the properties to generate income and then refinance them to extract their increased value from the renovations. The pair further misled investors into believing they would be repaid their full principal investment along with interest as high as eight to fifteen percent and a large lump sum payout, all within periods as short as 30 to 90 days.

    Christensen and Matic’s scheme failed to generate the promised returns almost immediately and they began using new investments to repay earlier investors to keep their business afloat. When they were unable to raise enough money from new investors, Christensen and Matic devised a separate scheme to defraud commercial lenders. By December 2020, the pair began submitting loan applications with false financial information to different commercial lenders and, based on their misrepresentations, received millions of dollars in loans.

    In total, Christensen and Matic’s two schemes defrauded individual investors out of more than $11 million and commercial lenders out of more than $7 million.

    Conspiracy to commit wire fraud is punishable by up to 20 years in federal prison and three years’ supervised release. Money laundering in punishable by up to 10 years in federal prison and three years’ supervised release. Both charges may also result in fines of up to $250,000 or twice the gross gains or losses resulting from the offense.

    Christensen and Matic will both be sentenced on October 14, 2025.

    This case was investigated by the FBI and IRS Criminal Investigation. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert Trisotto.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Story City Man Conspiring to Distribute Meth and Fentanyl Pleads Guilty in Federal Court

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    A man who conspired to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl pled guilty May 8, 2025, in federal court in Sioux City.

     William Clark, Jr., 40, from Story City, Iowa, was convicted of one count of conspiring to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl.

     At the plea hearing, Clark, Jr. admitted that from January 2024 through April 27, 2024, he and others conspired to distribute at least ½ pound of methamphetamine and more than 1700 pills of fentanyl.  On April 21, 2024, Clark, Jr., along with two others were headed to Colorado to pick up more methamphetamine and to sell fentanyl pills.  They attempted to elude law enforcement in a high-speed vehicle chase.  Clark, Jr. also made a “false” 911 call to law enforcement in an attempt to assist his attempted eluding and avoid their capture with evidence of drug trafficking.  

     Sentencing before United States District Court Judge Leonard T. Strand will be set after a presentence report is prepared.  Clark, Jr. remains in custody of the United States Marshal pending sentencing.  Clark, Jr. faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years’ imprisonment and a possible maximum sentence of 40 years’ imprisonment, a $5,000,000 fine, and at least four years of supervised release following any imprisonment.

    The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Shawn S. Wehde and was investigated by the Ida and Sac County Sheriff’s Offices, the Tri-State Drug Task Force based in Sioux City, Iowa, that consists of law enforcement personnel from the Drug Enforcement Administration; Sioux City, Iowa, Police Department; Homeland Security Investigations; Woodbury County Sheriff’s Office; South Sioux City, Nebraska, Police Department; Nebraska State Patrol; Iowa National Guard; Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement; United States Marshals Service; South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation; and the Woodbury County Attorney’s Office; and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; and Iowa DCI Laboratory  

     Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.

    The case file number is 24-4042.  Follow us on X @USAO_NDIA.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Verizon’s Red Hot Deal Days are back with the season’s biggest sale: phones, watches, tablets and more, on us

    Source: Verizon

    Headline: Verizon’s Red Hot Deal Days are back with the season’s biggest sale: phones, watches, tablets and more, on us

    NEW YORK – Verizon just announced its hottest deals of the season with “Red Hot Deal Days,” from May 15 through May 28. As the first and only provider in the industry offering all new and existing myPlan and myHome customers a three-year price lock guarantee, Verizon is committed to providing its customers peace of mind and big savings.

    “We’re providing our best deals and value as a thank you for our customers,” said Sowmyanaran Sampath, Verizon Consumer CEO. “Price, value and savings are top of mind for people today – every dollar counts. That’s why we’re proud to offer these deals as an added benefit alongside our three year price lock. We’re not just meeting expectations; we’re setting a new standard for what customers should expect from their mobile and home internet provider.”

    This year for Red Hot Deal Days, new and existing mobile customers can score a smartphone, watch, and tablet with ANY myPlan, on us, plus Ray Ban Meta glasses with select Unlimited plans. So, whether you want the iPhone 16 Pro, the Samsung Galaxy S25+ or the Google Pixel 9 Pro – there’s a deal for you, ALL ON US!  AND new home internet customers can get a $400 credit on select Samsung home tech at Best Buy and more. This special event has something for everyone, featuring incredible deals on the latest tech accessories, from Father’s Day gifts to graduation gifts, to travel essentials for vacation and more. It’s the perfect lead-up to summer! 

    Savings on the hottest tech for Mobile and Home customers

    Verizon mobile customers who upgrade or add a line on ANY myPlan can enjoy one of three mobile bundles with select phone trade-in and service plan for watch and tablet, plus Ray-Ban Meta Glasses (Up to $299, for those who add a new line on Unlimited Plus or Unlimited Ultimate plans):

    • Apple: Get the iPhone 16 Pro, Watch Series 10 and iPad (A16), on us.
    • Google: Get the Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel Watch 3 and Tab S10 FE, on us.
    • Samsung: Get the Galaxy S25+, Galaxy Watch Ultra and Tab S10 FE, on us.

    New Verizon Home Internet customers who sign up for select plans can enjoy:

    • Price-lock guarantee for 3-5 years, depending on plan
    • $400 off select Samsung home tech at Best Buy
    • The YouTube Premium Perk for 6 months (then $10/mo after)
    • and Ray-Ban Meta Glasses (Up to $299), all on us.

    For families looking for wearable tech:

    • StreamTV Soundbar: Get the latest StreamTV Soundbar for only $149.99 (Save $250)
    • StreamTV: Get the Verizon StreamTV device for only $19.99 (Save $50)

    And for a limited time, save even more by getting 25% cash back as a statement credit when you use your Verizon Visa® Card on eligible electronic and accessory purchases at Verizon.

    Stay up to date and explore all the latest deals from Verizon by visiting your local Verizon retail store or verizon.com/deals/.

    Samsung Home Tech: Offer valid thru 5.28.25 for a $400 credit via promo code to be used toward the single item purchase of select Samsung home tech (eligible TVs, appliances, laptops, tablets, monitors, and speakers) with a minimum retail price of $800. Product selection may vary. Offer not valid on Samsung smartphones. For new home internet customers who install eligible Verizon Home Internet services and redeem w/in 30 days thereafter, or by no later than 7.27.25, whichever is first. Promo code must be redeemed online at bestbuy.com/verizonsamsungpromotion. Verizon reserves the right to charge back the value of the Samsung credit if eligible service is canceled w/in 180 days. One offer per eligible Verizon account, while supplies last. Samsung and related trademarks are owned by Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. Verizon is not affiliated with Best Buy. Purchase, delivery, installation, and other charges are the subject to Best Buy’s terms & conditions.

    Ray-Ban Meta Glasses: Mobile: Offer valid through 5.28.25 for select Ray-Ban Meta glasses, with retail value up to $299, w/ purchase of eligible smartphone on device payment w/new smartphone line on postpaid Unlimited Plus or Unlimited Ultimate plan. Must maintain eligible services for 30 days and redeem offer w/in 60 days thereafter, or by no later than 09.25.25, whichever is first. Glasses redeemed on Meta.com. Verizon reserves the right to charge back the value of the Ray-Ban Meta promotional device(s) if eligible service is canceled w/in 180 days or eligibility req’s are no longer met. Limit 1 offer per Verizon account. While supplies last. Home: Offer valid through 5.28.25 for select Ray-Ban Meta glasses, with retail value up to $299. For new home internet customers who activate/install and maintain eligible 5G Home Plus, LTE Home Plus, Fios 2 Gig or Fios 1 Gig internet services in good standing for 65 days and redeem offer w/in 60 days thereafter, or by no later than 10.30.25, whichever is first. Glasses redeemed on Meta.com. Verizon reserves the right to charge back the value of the Ray-Ban Meta promotional device(s) if eligible service is canceled w/in 180 days. Limit 1 offer per Verizon account. While supplies last.

    (Apple) Phone: $999.99 (128 GB only) device payment purchase w/new or upgrade smartphone line on Unlimited Ultimate, postpaid Unlimited Plus or Unlimited Welcome plan (min. $65/mo w/Auto Pay (+taxes/fees) for 36 mos) req’d. Less $1,000 trade-in/promo credit applied over 36 mos.; 0% APR. For upgrades, trade-in phone must be active on account for 60 days prior to new device purchase. Trade-in must be from Apple, Google, Motorola or Samsung; trade-in terms apply. Apple Intelligence requires iOS 18.1 or later. Apple Watch/iPad: Up to $499.99 device payment purchase w/new line on eligible plan (min. $20/mo w/Auto Pay (+taxes/fees) for 36 mos) req’d per Apple Watch/iPad. Less up to $500 promo credit per device applied over 36 mos; 0% APR. All promo credits for iPhone/Apple Watch/iPad offers end if eligibility req’s per device are no longer met.

    (Google) Phone: $999.99 (128 GB only) device payment purchase w/new or upgrade smartphone line on Unlimited Ultimate, postpaid Unlimited Plus or Unlimited Welcome plan (min. $65/mo w/Auto Pay (+taxes/fees) for 36 mos) req’d. Less $1,000 trade-in/promo credit applied over 36 mos.; 0% APR. For upgrades, trade-in phone must be active on account for 60 days prior to new device purchase. Trade-in must be from Google, Apple, Motorola or Samsung; trade-in terms apply. Tablet/Watch: Up to $599.99 device payment purchase w/new line on eligible plan (min. $20/mo w/Auto Pay (+taxes/fees) for 36 mos) req’d per Tablet/Watch. Less up to $600 promo credit per device applied over 36 mos; 0% APR. All promo credits for Phone/Watch/Tablet offers end if eligibility req’s per device are no longer met.

    (Samsung) Phone: $999.99 (256 GB only) device payment purchase w/new or upgrade smartphone line on Unlimited Ultimate, postpaid Unlimited Plus or Unlimited Welcome plan (min. $65/mo w/Auto Pay (+taxes/fees) for 36 mos) req’d. Less $1,000 trade-in/promo credit applied over 36 mos.; 0% APR. For upgrades, trade-in phone must be active on account for 60 days prior to new device purchase. Trade-in must be from Samsung, Apple, Google or Motorola; trade-in terms apply. Tablet/Watch: Up to $649.99 device payment purchase w/new line on eligible plan (min. $20/mo w/Auto Pay (+taxes/fees) for 36 mos) req’d per Tablet/Watch. Less up to $650 promo credit per device applied over 36 mos; 0% APR. All promo credits for Phone/Watch/Tablet offers end if eligibility req’s per device are no longer met.

    Price Guarantee: myPlan: Applies to the then-current base monthly rate charged by Verizon for your talk, text, and data; excludes taxes, fees, surcharges, additional plan discounts or promotions, and third-party services. Price guarantee is void if any of the lines are canceled or moved to an ineligible plan. Plan perks, taxes, fees, and surcharges are subject to change.

    myHome: Price guarantee for 3-5 years, depending on internet plan, for new and existing myHome customers. Applies only to the then-current base monthly rate exclusive of any other setup and additional equipment charges, discounts or promotions, plan perk and any other third-party services.

    YouTube Premium: Offer valid thru 5.28.25. Requires an eligible Verizon Home Internet (“VHI”) plan. $10/mo perk credit ends after 6 mos or if perk is canceled or line is moved to an ineligible plan during the 6-mo promo period. After 6 mos, perk bills as $10/mo unless perk is canceled or unregistered. Must be 18 years of age or older to enroll. After enrolling in the YouTube Premium perk, you will need to complete account setup to use the service. Enrolling in the YouTube Premium perk may affect existing subscriptions to YouTube Premium. Managing subscriptions may be required to avoid multiple subscriptions and corresponding charges. One offer per eligible VHI account. Subject to YouTube Terms of Service & YouTube Premium and Music Premium Terms of Use.

    Gizmo Watch: $149.99 purchase on service plan req’d. Less $75 promo credit applied over 36 mos.; promo credit ends if eligibility req’s are no longer met; 0% APR.

    Verizon Visa Card: Purchases subject to credit approval. Offer available 5/15/25 at 3 AM ET – 5/29/25 at 3 AM ET.  Excludes phones, smartwatches, tablets, laptops and gift cards. Offer is based on purchase price, excluding taxes and shipping and other fees. Offer is not combinable with the Accessories Financing Offer. Maximum purchase total of $1,000 on eligible accessories & electronics purchases at Verizon. $250 maximum statement credit during offer period. Statement credit will be applied to your Verizon Visa Card account within 1-2 billing cycles from offer end date. Verizon Visa Card account needs to be in good standing at time statement credit is applied to qualify. Statement credit cannot be used to satisfy the required monthly payment on your credit card account and may not be redeemed for cash or cash equivalent. The Verizon Visa Signature® Card is issued by Synchrony Bank, pursuant to a license from VISA USA Inc.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Slovenia to get expressway upgrade with €120 million EIB loan to motorway operator DARS

    Source: European Investment Bank

    • EIB lends Slovenian motorway company DARS €120 million to finance a bypass project near southeastern city of Novo Mesto.
    • Planned Novo Mesto eastern bypass is to improve traffic flow, road safety and air quality in area close to Croatian border.
    • Project includes more than six kilometres of cycling paths as well as bike and pedestrian bridge across river Krka.

    The European Investment Bank (EIB) is lending €120 million to the Slovenian national motorway company DARS to build a bypass near the southeastern city of Novo Mesto. The planned Novo Mesto eastern bypass is a 9.8-kilometre expressway that will improve traffic flow, road safety and air quality in the region, which is near the border with Croatia.

    The project is expected to boost economic growth in the area by connecting to the A2 motorway, which traverses Slovenia from north to south.

    In line with the EIB’s Climate Bank Roadmap commitments, it continues to invest in road projects such as the one in Novo Mesto, which includes the creation of more than six kilometres of dedicated cycling paths as well as a bike and pedestrian bridge across the river Krka, bolstering actions to promote clean forms of transport and fight climate change.

    “This project reflects our support for sustainable infrastructure development in Slovenia,” said EIB Vice-President Kyriacos Kakouris. “It is part of our broader effort to help improve mobility and quality of life for residents in Novo Mesto and the wider region.”

    The Novo Mesto Eastern Bypass is  part of Slovenia’s plan for sustainable urban mobility and aligns with the European Union’s priorities for infrastructure development and environmental sustainability.

    “We welcome the EIB’s decision to grant DARS the credit facilities to implement this key infrastructure project. We are convinced that it will significantly contribute to the development of the municipality and the wider region, while at the same time improving road safety and traffic flow for all users,” said the President of the Board of DARS, mag. Andrej Ribi.

    The EIB’s advisory services, including technical assistance from JASPERS, helped in the project preparation by being involved in feasibility studies and environmental-impact assessments. 

    Background information

    The European Investment Bank (ElB) is the long-term lending institution of the European Union, owned by its Member States. Built around eight core priorities, the EIB finances investments that contribute to EU policy objectives by bolstering climate action and the environment, digitalisation and technological innovation, security and defence, cohesion, agriculture and the bioeconomy, social infrastructure, the capital markets union and a stronger Europe in a more peaceful and prosperous world. 

    The EIB Group, which also includes the European Investment Fund (EIF), signed nearly €89 billion in new financing for over 900 high-impact projects in 2024, boosting Europe’s competitiveness and security.   

    All projects financed by the EIB Group are in line with the Paris Climate Agreement, as pledged in the organisation’s Climate Bank Roadmap. Almost 60% of the EIB Group’s annual financing supports projects directly contributing to climate-change mitigation, adaptation and a healthier environment. Fostering market integration and mobilising investment, the Group supported a record of over €100 billion in new investment for Europe’s energy security in 2024 and mobilised €110 billion in growth capital for startups, scale-ups and European pioneers. Approximately half of the EIB’s financing within the EU is directed towards cohesion regions, where per-capita income is lower than the EU average. 

    High-quality, up-to-date photos of the EIB Group’s headquarters for media use are available here.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: President Calviño: EIB Group to provide €70 billion for tech firms and innovators

    Source: European Investment Bank

    EIB Group President Nadia Calviño explains how Europe can benefit from the Trump chaos, with the tech sector set to receive a massive financial boost.

    Interview by Carsten Volkery (published by Handelsblatt)

    The European Investment Bank (EIB) Group is launching a new initiative to close Europe’s investment gap with the United States, aiming to provide €70 billion in startup funding by 2027. This will encourage private investors to get on board with projects, unlocking as much as €250 billion in investment for the European tech sector.

    “This is the largest ever programme to exclusively support European innovation and technological leadership,” EIB Group President Nadia Calviño told Handelsblatt. The goal, she explained, is to finance research projects and companies “from idea to IPO.”

    This also includes supporting the exit of company founders and venture capital investors – who often sell their stakes to US investors, who can afford to buy them. In the future, the EIB could help EU firms to acquire promising startups to prevent technologies from being sold out of Europe.

    TechEU platform to launch this year

    Set to launch later this year, the EIB’s TechEU platform is designed to provide researchers and companies with a one-stop shop for all their financing needs. Calviño says that EU support will become “larger, faster and simpler.” The EIB will work closely with the European Commission, and national promotional banks such as Germany’s KfW may also participate.

    The plan still needs to be approved by the Bank’s Board of Governors, which is made up of the finance ministers of the 27 EU Member States. The EIB Group President gave her perspective to a meeting of the finance ministers in Brussels on Tuesday, and hopes for a positive decision in June.

    She also sees an opportunity in US President Donald Trump’s erratic economic policy and the uncertainty it has caused. “The current situation in the United States creates an opportunity for Europe to attract talent, to attract investment, to attract capital,” she said. “We see strong interest in Europe from international investors.”

    Brain drain warning from US researchers

    In recent weeks and months, the US administration has massively cut research funding for institutions such as the elite Harvard and Columbia universities. US researchers are already warning of brain drain as leading scientists leave the country.

    Former President of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Leo Rafael Reif wrote in Foreign Affairs magazine that the Trump administration seems intent on destroying one of the United States’ greatest strengths. The recent cuts to university funding, he writes, risk “draining a crucial source of new ideas for industry and the military.”

    Calviño emphasised that Europe is a “beacon of stability, clarity and confidence” in the current geopolitical environment. This is what investors are looking for. The EIB is also the only multilateral development bank whose shareholders are the EU Member States. “We are not confronted with the same sort of uncertainties that other multilateral development banks are going through,” she says. This enhances the international role of the EIB.

    The EIB’s goal is to back EU policy objectives. It catalyses private investment by offering only partial financing for projects, thereby mobilising public and private sector co-investors. It lent €89 billion last year, and plans to provide €95 billion this year.

    Europe’s largest venture capital financier

    Beyond guarantees and loans, the EIB also takes equity stakes in companies. It is Europe’s largest venture capital financier and its biggest venture debt provider. The various EU funding programmes for researchers and startups will be linked together on the new TechEU platform, meaning that each project will only need to be appraised once.

    The EIB’s prominent role in venture capital financing shows just how underdeveloped Europe’s private capital markets really are. Calviño says that this new initiative aims to nurture the private venture capital ecosystem in Europe. The hope is that, in time, European startups will no longer be obliged to go to the United States to meet their growth phase capital needs.

    However, critics accuse the EIB of being too conservative in its investment approach. In his report on EU competitiveness published last year, EU Special Advisor Mario Draghi called on the Bank to take on more risk to foster breakthrough innovation.

    EIB to take on more risk

    Calviño says that the EIB has already become more willing to take risks. It intends to continue on that track with the TechEU programme, supporting an extra 1 000 EU champions and innovators every year. At the same time, the EIB must ensure it preserves its AAA credit rating, which enables it to raise funds cheaply on the capital markets. It can then pass these funds on to companies.

    Calviño also promises to cut red tape, aiming to return decisions on venture capital financing applications within six months. “This would be a gamechanger.”

    The tech sector often complains that response times are too long. In the past, the EIB has always framed its thorough appraisal process as a hallmark of quality, as it keeps loan default rates very low. But it now seems to have been understood that speed is also a critical factor.

    Another innovation driver could be the defence sector. The EIB has recently made defence one of its core strategic priorities and now also finances purely military projects. “Security and defence investments can certainly help the technology agenda,” said Calviño.

    The Bank already has a pipeline of 22 projects in this sector, supporting drone manufacturers and space companies, for example, as well as several defence-focused venture capital funds.

    According to Calviño, Europe already has almost everything it needs to close the technology gap with the United States. “Europe has a very large market, 450 million citizens, excellent universities, excellent research centres and companies, and brilliant startup ecosystems. With deeper and larger capital markets, we can ensure that technologies and startups born in the European Union can be financed and scale up in Europe.”

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Former El Paso US Army soldier charged with child pornography offenses

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    WASHINGTON — A federal grand jury returned an indictment May 14 charging Seth Herrera, 35, a U.S. Army soldier, previously of El Paso, Texas, with attempted sexual exploitation of a child and receiving files depicting child sexual abuse.

    U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations special agents are investigating the case.

    According to court documents, Herrera allegedly used encrypted messaging applications and network applications to find, receive, and download child sexual abuse material over the course of multiple years, beginning in 2021. He also allegedly used artificial intelligence chatbots to generate child sexual abuse material using images of children he knew and surreptitiously took images and videos of those same children undressing in his El Paso home.

    Herrera is already charged in Alaska relating to his alleged transportation, receipt, and possession of child sexual abuse material, including AI-generated child sexual abuse material, while stationed at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Anchorage, Alaska.

    Trial Attorney Rachel L. Rothberg of the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Mallory J. Rasmussen for the Western District of Texas are prosecuting the case.

    This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Italy affirms Partnership with African Development Bank under the Mattei Plan

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

    ABIDJAN, Ivory Coast, May 15, 2025/APO Group/ —

    Italy has reaffirmed its partnership with the African Development Bank (www.AfDB.org) and expressed keenness to explore mutual growth opportunities in Africa under the Mattei Plan. 

    Stefano Gatti, Director General for Development Cooperation at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (FAIC) and Lorenzo Ortona, Head of the Mattei Plan Task Force led a delegation to the Bank’s Abidjan headquarters on Thursday 8 May. The delegation comprised representatives of institutions charged with implementing the Mattei plan for Africa, such as Cassa Depositi e Prestiti(CDP), the Ministry of Finance, as well as important representatives of the business and private sector and civil society organisations. 

    Under the Mattei Plan for Africa, Italy aims to foster economic and strategic partnerships with African nations and institutions. Its Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has stated that the African Development Bank Group would be (https://apo-opa.co/3FkcLD8) its main strategic financial partner for implementation of the plan on the continent. 

    The delegation was hosted by African Development Bank Senior Vice President Marie-Laure Akin-Olugbade, who was joined by three vice presidents –Nnenna Nwabufo, Beth Dunford and Kevin Kariuki, as well as several directors from the energy, resource mobilization and finance departments, among others. 

    Participants in the meeting exchanged on ways to strengthen public-private sector collaboration with Italy in reducing hunger and boosting agriculture in Africa. The conversation also discussed the importance of the African Development Fund, the Bank’s concessional lending arm in addressing the challenges of the continent’s most disadvantaged countries. 

    Akin-Olugbade expressed satisfaction at the progress made since the announcement of the Plan in July 2024, in particular, the Rome Process/Mattei Plan Financing Facility (RPFF), a multi-donor Special Fund aimed at supporting climate aligned sovereign infrastructure projects that help to address the root causes of migration. The RPFF with contributions from Italy and the UAE amounting to over $170 million, is now operational.  

    The senior vice president commended Italy for demonstrating its commitment and thanked the government for its choice of The African Development Bank as partner. “We appreciate, of course, the choice of the African Development Bank to accompany you in your strategy, very ambitious strategy for the continent. We are really very happy to hear that Italy, indeed, is still strongly committed to the continent, and of course, to working with the African Development Fund.” 

    Other instruments under the Plan with the African Development Bank include the Growth and Resilience Platform for Africa (Graf), and a bilateral co-financing facility. Under Graf, CDP and the African Development Bank intend to invest up to EUR 400 million over five years in private equity funds to accelerate private sector development in Africa. 

    “We are grateful for the outstanding job that the bank has done. We really appreciate it,” Ortan said. “We really believe that in order to enhance the Mattei plan in Africa and the visibility of it, we need partners like you.”  

    Concluding the discussions, Akin-Olugbade said the Mattei plan has emerged as a template for future cooperation between Italy and other developed countries and Africa. 

    She said: “I believe that Italy has seen the African Development Bank, the African Development Fund as trusted partners. I believe we have a good track record of providing and achieving results. There’s a leveraging effect that multilateral development banks have that sometime bilateral resources do not have. And we need to take advantage of this.” 

    Italy has been a strong partner to the African Development Fund and pledged EUR 298.88 million to its sixteenth replenishment. Italy has been a partner in Mission 300, as well as advocating for strengthening private sector engagement, especially for youth entrepreneurship.  

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Army Soldier Charged with Child Pornography Offenses

    Source: US State of California

    A federal grand jury returned an indictment yesterday charging Seth Herrera, 35, a U.S. Army soldier, previously of El Paso, TX, with attempted sexual exploitation of a child and receipt of files depicting child sexual abuse.

    According to court documents, Herrera allegedly used encrypted messaging applications and network applications to find, receive, and download child sexual abuse material (CSAM) over the course of multiple years, beginning in 2021. He also allegedly used artificial intelligence chatbots to generate CSAM using images of children he knew. He is also alleged to have surreptitiously taken images and videos of those same children undressing in his home in El Paso.

    Herrera is already charged in Alaska relating to his alleged transportation, receipt, and possession of CSAM, including AI-generated CSAM, while stationed at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Anchorage, Alaska.

    Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, and Acting U.S. Attorney Margaret F. Leachman for the Western District of Texas made the announcement.

    Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) is investigating the case.

    Trial Attorney Rachel L. Rothberg of the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS) and Assistant U.S. Attorney Mallory J. Rasmussen for the Western District of Texas are prosecuting the case.

    This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, visit www.justice.gov/psc.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Cargo Airline Operator Sentenced To Two Years In Prison For Paying Millions In Kickbacks In Large-Scale Scheme To Defraud Cargo Airline

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Jay Clayton, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, announced today that SKYE XU was sentenced to two years in prison by U.S. District Judge Jesse M. Furman for his part in a scheme to defraud Polar Air Cargo Worldwide, Inc. (“Polar”), a leading cargo airline, of more than $32 million dollars in revenue.  XU previously pled guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud and honest services wire fraud, wire fraud, and conspiracy to commit money laundering.

    U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton said: “During the COVID-19 pandemic, Skye Xu paid approximately $4.4 million in kickbacks to Polar executives to obtain highly lucrative business from Polar.  The Polar executives concealed the kickbacks from Polar using shell companies.  Corruption of this type has costs that extend way beyond Polar’s or any one company’s bottom line. Today’s sentence should be a reminder that commercial bribery has no place in America.

    According to the charging documents and other public filings and statements made in public court proceedings:

    From at least in or about November 2020 through in or about July 2021, XU operated Sky X Airlines, LLC, a cargo airline company based in California. During those nine months, and without Polar’s knowledge, XU paid approximately $4.4 million in kickbacks to shell companies controlled by three senior executives of Polar (the “Executive Defendants”) in exchange for two lucrative business contracts with Polar. These fraudulently obtained contracts earned XU and his cargo airline approximately $46 million in gross revenue and nearly $10 million in net revenue based on the sales of unused space on passenger airlines to transport cargo during the COVID-19 pandemic.

    The approximately $4.4 million in kickbacks that XU paid to the Executive Defendants in a nine-month span was part of more than $20 million in kickbacks and other financial benefits that the Executive Defendants and other co-conspirators received from certain Polar customers and vendors from at least 2009 to at least 2021 in exchange for ensuring that those vendors and customers received favorable business arrangements with Polar.  The fraud that XU and his coconspirators perpetrated—which involved a substantial portion of Polar’s senior management and at least ten customers and vendors of Polar—led to pervasive corruption of Polar’s business, touching nearly every aspect of the company’s operations, for over a decade.

    XU was the last of 10 defendants charged in this case to be convicted. Five of the 10 charged defendants have previously been sentenced.

    *                *                *

    In addition to the prison term, XU, 43, of West Covina, California, was sentenced to three years of supervised release.  XU was also ordered to forfeit $4,487,830 and to make restitution to Polar in the amount of $1,390,000. 

    Mr. Clayton praised the outstanding work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigations. 

    The case is being prosecuted by the Office’s Complex Frauds and Cybercrime Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Danielle Kudla, Kevin Mead, Qais Ghafary, and Jerry J. Fang are in charge of the prosecution.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Bowling Green, Kentucky Man Sentenced to Federal Prison and Ordered to Pay Over $1.5 Million in Restitution for Tax Evasion and Defrauding Employer

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Bowling Green, KY – A Bowling Green man was sentenced yesterday to 3 years and 10 months in federal prison for wire fraud, money laundering, and tax evasion.

    U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Karen Wingerd, Cincinnati Field Office, IRS Criminal Division, and U.S. Postal Inspector in Charge Lesley Allison of the Pittsburgh Division made the announcement.

    Kenneth Ray Moore, 56, was sentenced to 3 years and 10 months in prison, followed by 2 years of supervised release, for three counts of wire fraud, two counts of money laundering, and four counts of tax evasion. According to court documents, between October 2009 and May 2020, Moore committed wire fraud by engaging in a scheme to embezzle $1,145,800 from his employer. Moore, who formerly held the position of Vice President of Finance, caused his employer to issue checks to “KBM Solutions,” a shell company he created to receive embezzled funds. Moore laundered money by transferring the embezzled funds to his personal financial accounts. Moore also failed to file personal income tax returns between 2013 and 2020, and owed over $300,000 in unpaid taxes, penalties, and interest.

    Moore was ordered to pay $1,158,194.80 in restitution for the embezzlement scheme and $342,155.84 in restitution for tax evasion, for a total of $1,500,350.64 in restitution.

    There is no parole in the federal system.

    This case was investigated by the IRS Criminal Investigation Bowling Green Office and the USPIS Bowling Green Office.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Raymond McGee, of the U.S. Attorney’s Paducah Branch Office, and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Erin Bravo and Madison Sewell of the Louisville Office, prosecuted the case.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: South Bend Man Sentenced to 108 Months in Prison

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SOUTH BEND – Michael Bellina, 22 years old, of South Bend, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Cristal C. Brisco after pleading guilty to transportation of child pornography, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.

    Bellina was sentenced to 108 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release.

    According to documents in the case, between August 2023 and March 2024, Bellina transported more than 600 images of child sexual abuse material that he received through the internet. He uploaded the images and distributed them on multiple internet platforms.

    This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations with assistance from the Indiana State Police, the Indiana Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, the Mishawaka Police Department, the Bloomington Police Department, the Indiana University Police Department, the Raleigh (North Carolina) Police Department, the Boone (North Carolina) Police Department, and the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Indiana.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Hannah T Jones.

    The case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood. In 2006, the Department of Justice created Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Bridgeport Drug Trafficker Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal Prison for Third Federal Conviction

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that GAVIN HAMMETT, also known as “G” and “Silk,” 60, of Bridgeport, was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge Michael P. Shea in Hartford to 120 months of imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release, for drug trafficking and firearm possession offenses.

    According to court documents and statements made in court, in early 2024, the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Bridgeport High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) Task Force and Stamford Police Department identified Hammett as the member of a drug trafficking network that was distributing cocaine and fentanyl in the Bridgeport area.  Between February and April 2024, investigators made controlled purchases of fentanyl from Hammett.

    Hammett was arrested on May 14, 2024.  On that date, a court authorized search of his residence revealed approximately two kilograms of cocaine, approximately 39 grams of fentanyl, two handguns, two loaded gun magazines, and an empty gun magazine.

    Hammett has been detained since his arrest.  On February 21, 2025, he pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute cocaine and fentanyl, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

    This is Hammett’s third federal conviction.  In July 1997, Hammett was sentenced in the District of South Carolina to 105 months of imprisonment for distributing cocaine, and in October 2011, he was sentenced in the District of Connecticut to 240 months of imprisonment for distributing cocaine and crack.  In October 2020, after he had served approximately nine years of his 20-year sentence, Hammett’s pandemic-related motion for compassionate release was granted by a federal judge and his sentence was reduced to time served.

    This investigation was conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Bridgeport High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) Task Force, the Stamford Police Department, the Bridgeport Police Department, and the U.S. Marshals Service, with the assistance of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Connecticut State Police, and the Norwalk, Danbury, and Darien Police Departments.  The DEA HIDTA Task Force includes personnel from the DEA Bridgeport Resident Office, the Connecticut State Police, and the Norwalk, Stamford, Stratford, Milford, and Danbury Police Departments.

    The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Patricia Stolfi Collins through the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Program.  Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Kansas City Man Pleads Guilty to Multi-State Business Burglary Conspiracy

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City, Mo., man pleaded guilty in federal court today for his role in a scheme in which the conspirators stole hundreds of thousands of dollars’ worth of merchandise from beauty and liquor stores across six states.

    Gary Bailey, 24, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Greg Kays, to one count of conspiring to transport and possess stolen property and one count of interstate transportation of stolen property.

    By pleading guilty, Bailey admitted that between March 2023 and January 2024, he participated in burglarizing at least 23 stores across Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, and Nebraska. Bailey and his co-conspirators brought the stolen product back to Kansas City, before either selling it, giving it away to family or friends, or consuming the product themselves. The loss to these 23 victim businesses exceeded $418,000.

    On April 22, 2025, co-conspirator Donald Bennett pleaded guilty to one count of conspiring to transport and possess stolen property, one count of interstate transportation of stolen property, and one count of money laundering.

    As part of the plea agreement, Bailey must pay restitution to the victim businesses; the exact amount to be determined at his sentencing hearing. Under federal statutes, Bailey is subject to a sentence of up to 10 years in federal prison without parole. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.

    This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John Constance. It was investigated by IRS-Criminal Investigation and the Olathe, Kansas, Police Department, with assistance from the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the Platte County Sheriff’s Office and the police departments of Derby, KS, Belton, MO, Blue Springs, MO, Columbia, MO, Creve Coeur, MO, Edwardsville, KS, Fairview Heights, IL, Kansas City, MO, Kansas City, KS, Lawrence, KS, Leawood, KS, Lee’s Summit, MO, Lenexa, KS, Liberty, MO, Olathe, KS, Omaha, NE, Overland, Park, KS, Papillion, NE, Parkville, MO, Plainfield, IN, Plano, TX, Platte City, MO, Shawnee, KS, Springfield, MO, St. Joseph, MO, Terre Haute, IN, Topeka, KS, and West Des Moines, IA.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Feenstra Secures Tax Relief and Agricultural Investments in President Trump’s “One, Big, Beautiful Bill”

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Randy Feenstra (IA-04)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, as the only member of Congress serving on both the House Ways and Means Committee and the House Agriculture Committee, U.S. Rep. Randy Feenstra (R-Hull) voted to advance the tax and agricultural portions of President Trump’s “One, Big, Beautiful Bill” out of each committee.

    “This week, as a member of both the Ways and Means Committee and the Agriculture Committee, I voted to advance the tax cuts and agricultural investments of President Trump’s ‘One, Big, Beautiful Bill.’ This legislation lowers taxes for our families, farmers, workers, and businesses while supporting investments in domestic manufacturing, business growth, Iowa agriculture, and U.S. energy production,” said Rep. Feenstra. “I’m also glad that provisions that I led are included like death tax relief, paid family and medical leave for employees of small businesses, affordable crop insurance policies for young and beginning farmers, investments in foreign animal disease prevention, and expansion of our export markets. Working with President Trump, we are delivering on our promise to the American people to cut taxes, grow our economy, secure our border, and unleash American energy production.”

    Feenstra-led and -sponsored provisions include:

    • An increase in the exemption on the death tax,
    • Support for small businesses to offer paid family and medical leave to their employees,
    • Flexibility for community banks to offer agricultural business loans at more affordable rates for farmers and rural businesses,
    • Investments in homegrown Iowa biofuels,
    • Tax provisions to help American businesses compete on a level playing field with foreign businesses,
    • Higher standard deduction for families and workers,
    • New $4,000 bonus deduction for seniors,
    • Increased child tax credit for families,
    • Permanent 23% deduction for qualified business income for small businesses,
    • Lower crop insurance costs for young, beginning, and veteran farmers,
    • Doubled funding for the Market Access Program and Foreign Market Development Program,
    • Support for foreign animal disease prevention, mitigation, and response,
    • Prevention of administrative errors when distributing SNAP payments, ensuring nutrition assistance is fighting food insecurity, and,
    • Investments in watershed infrastructure and flood prevention.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Council to invest £756m in the Highlands

    Source: Scotland – Highland Council

    Highland Councillors have considered £756m investment across Highland communities over the next 5 years when they discussed an updated report on the consolidated Highland Investment Plan (HIP) at a meeting of The Highland Council today Thursday 15 May.

    Convener of the Council, Cllr Bill Lobban said: “The consolidated programme which was presented to Members is part of a longer-term strategy for the Highland Investment Plan which creates a potential £2.1bn of capital investment over a twenty-year period.

    “Councillors agreed that officers progress actions to ensure the HIP programme is managed within the overall funding as described in the report.”

    Leader of the Council, Cllr Raymond Bremner said: “The Highland Investment Plan is creating a new generation of community based facilities known as Points of Delivery or PODs. In addition to schools and community facilities the HIP also aims to provide investment for transport and roads, depots and offices. People will start to see a real difference in their communities over the coming five years as these projects are rolled out.”

    The first phase of agreed HIP projects includes investment in Beauly, Charleston, Dingwall, Dunvegan, Fortrose, Inverness High and Thurso schools.

    The consolidated HIP report reflects decisions made by the Council over the past year on capital project priorities and budgets, and the HIP will continue to operate within agreed funding and affordability. The full report can be found here (Item 4).   

    More information on the Highland Investment Plan can be found on the Council’s website:  

    https://www.highland.gov.uk/highlandinvestmentplan 

    15 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: California Department of Justice Investigating Officer-Involved Shooting Under AB 1506 Involving South San Francisco Police Department and San Bruno Police Department

    Source: US State of California

    Thursday, May 15, 2025

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

    **The information provided below is based on preliminary details regarding an ongoing investigation, which may continue to evolve**

    OAKLAND – California Attorney General Rob Bonta today announced that the California Department of Justice (DOJ), pursuant to Assembly Bill 1506 (AB 1506), is investigating and will independently review an officer-involved shooting (OIS) that occurred in South San Francisco, California on Wednesday, May 14, 2025 at approximately 7:00 p.m. The OIS incident resulted in the death of one individual and involved personnel from the South San Francisco Police Department and the San Bruno Police Department. 

    Following notification by local authorities, DOJ’s California Police Shooting Investigation Team initiated an investigation in accordance with AB 1506 mandates. Upon completion of the investigation, it will be turned over to DOJ’s Special Prosecutions Section within the Criminal Law Division for independent review. Anyone that has information related to this officer-involved shooting incident and wishes to report it may do so by calling (916) 210-2871. 

    More information on the California Department of Justice’s role and responsibilities under AB 1506 is available here: https://oag.ca.gov/ois-incidents.

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Transformational Projects Move Ahead in North Country

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul today announced awards for a total of 22 transformational projects in the North Country as part of two economic development programs: the Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY Forward. Ten projects were announced for Lowville, the Round 7 winner of a $10 million DRI award; five projects were announced for Canton, a Round 2 winner of a $4.5 million NY Forward award; and seven projects were announced for Alexandria Bay, also a Round 2 winner of a $4.5 million NY Forward award.

    “Our North Country communities embody strength, resilience and a spirit of determination — that’s why I’m investing in 22 transformation projects that give every resident and business the opportunity to reach their full potential,” Governor Hochul said. “Our towns and villages are the foundation of what makes New York special, and we’re giving them the tools they need to better their communities as a whole.”

    New York Secretary of State Walter T. Mosley said, “When we invest in our downtowns, we’re investing in the heart of our communities. Through the Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY Forward program, we’re not just funding projects – we’re fostering vibrant, walkable neighborhoods that spur economic growth, enhance quality of life for residents and preserve the unique character of each municipality and region. These signature programs exemplify our commitment to ensuring that every New Yorker, in every corner of our State, has the opportunity to succeed and thrive.”

    Village of Lowville

    As the “urban heart” of Lewis County, the Village of Lowville seeks to preserve and enhance its small-town, rural charm, while diversifying and expanding its economic base in ways consistent with its unique character. The Village’s DRI projects are focused on transforming its downtown into a more vibrant neighborhood through private and public sector project opportunities that will achieve its vision for the downtown. Lowville’s investments will build on its past and ongoing efforts to make the downtown a regional center for business and culture, drawing on its position as the “intersection corridor of the Thousand Islands, the Tug Hill Plateau and the Adirondack Mountains.”

    The 10 Lowville DRI projects, totaling $9.7 million, include:

    • Improve Access and Parking at Veteran’s Memorial Park Creating a Safe and Inviting Space ($2,848,000): Reconfigure the parking lot at Veteran’s Memorial Park to create a welcoming gateway, improving access and increasing pedestrian safety. Key features include an improved entrance from State Street, curb bump-outs, upgraded sidewalks, green infrastructure for stormwater management, and new street trees. A formal monument sign will mark the park entrance, while parking improvements on Parkway Drive will optimize access and aesthetics.
    • Revitalize State Street to Enhance Safety, Accessibility, and Aesthetics in Downtown Lowville ($1,711,000): Enhance safety, accessibility and aesthetics through the installation of high-visibility crosswalks, curb bump-outs, Rectangular Rapid Flash Beacons, street tree plantings and green infrastructure to manage stormwater runoff and beautify the area.
    • Renovate the Stevens Block to Create Market Rate Apartments at 7623 N State Street ($1,558,000): Renovate an abandoned space at 7623 N State Street, creating market-rate residential units on the upper floors, with comprehensive upgrades including a new vestibule, stairwell, energy-efficient systems and exterior improvements.
    • Restore the Historic Keller Red Building to Create a Mixed-Use Commercial and Residential Space ($1,193,000): Preserve a historic downtown building by renovating its second and third stories into commercial and residential spaces, establishing a professional office space, enhancing meeting capabilities for Naturally Lewis, and upgrading the building’s structural, mechanical, and safety systems.
    • Rehabilitate the Historic Masonic Temple into an Efficient Community Hub ($776,000): Rehabilitate the historic National Register-listed Masonic Temple building in downtown Lowville, enhancing its role as a center for historical preservation, education, and cultural activities while modernizing its facilities for energy efficiency to serve the community and promote heritage tourism.
    • Establish a Small Project Fund to Enhance Downtown Lowville ($400,000): The Small Project Fund will support smaller projects in downtown Lowville with improvements such as facade restoration and improvement, interior renovation, signage, public art, and business assistance.
    • Develop a Downtown Branding and Wayfinding Strategy to Enhance Lowville’s Identity ($358,000): Revitalize its downtown area through a comprehensive initiative that includes a branding and marketing strategy, a wayfinding signage system, and interpretive elements that highlight local history.
    • Reimagine Veteran’s Park to create Community Space with Modern Amenities and Enhanced Accessibility ($320,000): Upgrade Veteran’s Park with improvements that aim to create a vibrant and accessible community space.
    • Restore the Historic Town Hall Theater into a Community Asset ($294,000): Restore a historic building to its original state while modernizing its functionality, including facade restoration, window replacement, interior renovations, stage construction, and technological upgrades to create a versatile cultural center for the community.
    • Reopen 5423 Shady Avenue to Create a Mixed-Use Building ($242,000): Renovate the second floor into a functional law office, restoring the building’s integrity, while transforming the long-vacant third floor into safe, and affordable mid to long-term housing.

    Village of Canton

    The Village of Canton’s historic downtown area is the crossroads connecting the St. Lawrence River Valley. The NY Forward projects will help generate a regional destination centered around diverse housing options; art and cultural attractions; variety of local businesses; and recreational offerings.

    The 5 Canton NY Forward Projects, totaling $4.5 Million, include:

    • Revitalize the Former Midtown Plaza to Create a Mixed-Use Space ($2,000,000): Redevelop the former Midtown Plaza into a mixed-use space that provides housing, an entrepreneurship center, and community amenities.
    • Upgrade Park Amenities in the Village Green to Enhance Community Space ($1,096,000): Upgrade Village Green with improved pathways, lighting, seating, and diverse plantings to create an inviting year-round space while maintaining the park’s historic character.
    • Transform 11 – 11 ½ Riverside Drive into a Commercial Fitness Hub ($807,000): Transform the partially vacant building at 11 and 11 ½ Riverside Drive into a commercial fitness center and studio space to provide health and wellness opportunities to the community and boost downtown business activity.
    • Expand Nature’s Storehouse into a Holistic Health Hub on Main Street ($497,000): Expand Nature’s Storehouse at 19 and 21 Main Street into a community health hub with improved food offerings, health products, and seating areas for customers, while renovating upper-story residential units.
    • Upgrade the TAUNY Center to Offer Improved Art and Cultural Experiences ($100,000): Upgrade the TAUNY Center with renovations to the building’s façade and interior to improve accessibility and functionality.

    Alexandria Bay

    Alexandria Bay’s downtown area, which encompasses the Village’s vibrant and burgeoning waterfront and abundant natural and recreational assets, has witnessed a recent surge of private investment. NY Forward projects will build and expand upon this effort and will allow the community to accelerate its economic regrowth by attracting visitors, residents and investors to the downtown.

    The 7 Alexandria Bay NY Forward Projects, totaling $4.5 Million, include:

    • Transform the James Street Streetscape into a Welcoming Corridor ($3,003,000): Transform James Street to improve pedestrian safety and foster a welcoming environment with the addition of a pedestrian plaza, new sidewalks, lighting and decorative plantings as well as upgraded restrooms by the public dock.
    • Renovate 27 James Street into a Mixed-Use Building ($510,000): Renovate 27 James Street to include a café, bookstore, art studio and apartment units. Landscaping improvements will create outdoor space for tenants with access to Rotary Park and the Riverwalk.
    • Create a Small Project Fund to Support Growth in Downtown Alexandria Bay ($285,000): Establish a matching grant fund in the NYF boundary to undertake a range of small downtown projects including façade enhancements, building renovations to commercial or mixed-use spaces, business assistance, and public art.
    • Renovate 34 James Street into a Mixed-Use Building ($270,000): Transform the first floor of 34 James Street into a potential eatery and renovate the upstairs into new apartments.
    • Create a Branding & Wayfinding Signage Initiative for Downtown Alexandria Bay to Strengthen Community Identity ($250,000): Create a coordinated branding and wayfinding signage initiative to strengthen the Village’s identity as a desirable tourist destination and welcoming community.
    • Rehabilitate the Exterior of the Cornwall Brothers Store and Museum, to Preserve the Historic Landmark ($92,000): Rehabilitate the museum and its retail space with a focus on stabilizing and preserving the historic exterior masonry.
    • Restore 20 Walton Street for Commercial Use ($90,000): Restore 20 Walton Street by revitalizing its façade and enhancing energy efficiency, creating an inviting and functional space for commercial use on the first floor.

    Empire State Development President, CEO, and Commissioner Hope Knight said,
    “The Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY Forward programs are transforming communities across New York State by turning local visions into bold investments to generate place-based economic development. These projects will create new opportunities for businesses, support vibrant public spaces, and attract residents and visitors alike – laying the foundation for sustainable growth and stronger regional economies.”

    New York State Homes and Community Renewal Commissioner RuthAnne Visnauskas said, “All across this State, the Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY Forward programs are strategically prioritizing communities, growing economies with targeted awards, creating more housing opportunities that improve affordability for New Yorkers where it is most needed, and building on the diverse character of our neighborhoods. By working with local and municipal partners, these awards continue Governor Hochul’s commitment to developing the full potential of our downtowns as economic drivers and attractive places to live.”

    North Country Regional Economic Development Council Co-Chairs James McKenna and Dr. Kathryn Morris said, “The DRI and NY Forward funding for Lowville, Canton and Alexandria Bay will further establish these communities as vibrant year-round destinations with growth opportunities for regional residents and visitors alike. This strategic support for our businesses, culture, history – and spectacular natural landscapes – will help to ensure that people can live, work and put down roots for the future right here in the North Country.”

    Assemblymember Scott Gray said, “These targeted investments in the Village of Canton and Alexandria Bay are a vital step toward strengthening our downtowns, preserving our heritage, and enhancing economic opportunity throughout the 116th Assembly District. These NY Forward projects reflect the unique character of each community, Canton’s vibrant academic and cultural setting and Alexandria Bay’s iconic waterfront. This will help expand housing, support small businesses, and boost tourism. By investing in infrastructure, recreation, and commercial revitalization, the state is helping these communities build a sustainable future rooted in local pride and economic growth.”

    Village of Lowville Mayor Dan Salmon said, “First, on behalf of the Village of Lowville Board of Trustees, its residents, and the DRI committee, I would like to thank Governor Hochul and staff for this gift. We are excited to receive the announcement of the DRI project awards that will enhance our community.”

    Village of Alexandria Bay Mayor Mike Putnam said, “The Village of Alexandria Bay is excited to receive this announcement. Thank you to Governor Hochul for the investment in our community. These NY Forward projects will make a great and lasting impact on our historic village.”

    Village of Canton Mayor Michael E. Dalton said, “I want to express my sincere gratitude for today’s announcement of the NY Forward Projects. These selected projects are investments, which leverage public and private commitment in our community. The draft recommendations developed by the hard work of a small committee of local residents are now coming to fruition, and we are incredibly excited to witness the positive changes these projects will bring. I also thank Governor Hochul and her commitment to Economic Development in New York State and especially the North Country.”

    DRI and NY Forward communities developed Strategic Implementation Plans (SIPs), which create a vision for the future of their downtown and identify and recommend a slate of complementary, transformative and implementable projects that support that vision. The SIPs are guided by a Local Planning Committee (LPC) comprised of local and regional leaders, stakeholders and community representatives, with the assistance of an assigned consultant and DOS staff, all of whom conduct extensive community outreach and engagement when determining projects. The projects selected for funding from the SIP were identified as having the greatest potential to jumpstart revitalization and generate new opportunities for long-term growth.

    About the Downtown Revitalization Initiative
    The Downtown Revitalization Initiative was created in 2016 to accelerate and expand the revitalization of downtowns and neighborhoods in all ten regions of the state to serve as centers of activity and catalysts for investment. Led by the Department of State with assistance from Empire State Development, Homes and Community Renewal and NYSERDA, the DRI represents an unprecedented and innovative “plan-then-act” strategy that couples strategic planning with immediate implementation and results in compact, walkable downtowns that are a key ingredient to helping New York State strengthen its economy, as well as to achieving the State’s bold climate goals by promoting the use of public transit and reducing dependence on private vehicles. Through nine rounds, the DRI has awarded a total of $900 million to 91 communities across every region of the State.

    About the NY Forward Program
    First announced as part of the 2022 Budget, Governor Hochul created the NY Forward program to build on the momentum created by the DRI. The program works in concert with the DRI to accelerate and expand the revitalization of smaller and rural downtowns throughout the State so that all communities can benefit from the State’s revitalization efforts, regardless of size, character, needs and challenges.

    NY Forward communities are supported by a professional planning consultant and team of State agency experts led by DOS to develop a Strategic Investment Plan that includes a slate of transformative, complementary and readily implementable projects. NY Forward projects are appropriately scaled to the size of each community; projects may include building renovation and redevelopment, new construction or creation of new or improved public spaces and other projects that enhance specific cultural and historical qualities that define and distinguish the small-town charm that defines these municipalities. Through three rounds, the NY Forward program has awarded a total of $300 million to 60 communities across every region of the State.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Gillibrand, Schumer, Wyden, Sanders, Merkley, Klobuchar Slam Trump Administration’s Attacks On Senior Nutrition Programs

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New York Kirsten Gillibrand
    In 2022, Nearly 7 Million Older Americans—Including 13.7 Percent Of Older Americans in New York—Experienced Food Insecurity
    Now, Republicans Are Trying To Cut Critical Programs That Help Seniors Put Food On The Table, Including Medicaid, Social Services Block Grant, and SNAP
    Lawmakers: “The cuts will exacerbate hunger, poor health, and social isolation”
    U.S. Senators Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN),and Chuck Schumer (D-NY) wrote a letter to their Republican colleagues asking them to reconsider their proposed cuts and attacks on programs and agencies that support senior nutrition programs. The senators wrote in their capacities as ranking members of the Senate Committees on Aging; Finance; Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions; Budget; Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry; and as Senate Democratic Leader, respectively. If implemented, the Republican’s proposed cuts to the programs will take hot meals, nutritious food, and social interaction away from millions of older adults nationwide, jeopardizing their health and quality of life.
    “We are writing today to express our serious concerns regarding efforts by the Trump administration and the potential of cuts proposed in your budget resolution to debilitate our nation’s beloved nutrition programs for seniors, taking hot meals, sustenance, and social interaction away from our seniors to fund tax cuts for billionaires,” wrote the lawmakers. “These attacks are multifaceted and will deeply hurt all aspects of senior nutrition services, from funding to program delivery. The cuts will exacerbate hunger, poor health, and social isolation, and our nation’s seniors will be gravely harmed by these decisions.”
    Specifically, the Senators asked Republicans to reconsider the following actions:
    Cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which is the largest food assistance program in the country;
    The dismantling of the Administration for Community Living (ACL), which administers the Older Americans Act’s nutrition programs; 
    The elimination of the Social Services Block Grant, which provides critical funding for senior nutrition programs;
    Cuts to Medicaid, which funds meal-delivery programs through Section 1115 waivers for home-bound older adults and people with disabilities; and
    Attacks on the Social Security Administration, which ensures accurate and timely payment of Social Security benefits so that older adults and people with disabilities can put food on the table.
    The full text of the Senators’ letter is available here or below:
    Dear Republican Colleagues: 
    We are writing today to express our serious concerns regarding efforts by the Trump Administration and the potential of cuts proposed in your budget resolution to debilitate our nation’s beloved nutrition programs for seniors, taking hot meals, sustenance, and social interaction away from our seniors to fund tax cuts for billionaires. These attacks are multifaceted and will deeply hurt all aspects of senior nutrition services, from funding to program delivery. The cuts will exacerbate hunger, poor health, and social isolation, and our nation’s seniors will be gravely harmed by these decisions. 
    In 2022, nearly 7 million older Americans experienced food insecurity, with numbers projected to reach up to 9 million by 2050. Hunger is particularly salient for older adults living in rural areas and in the South. Food insecure seniors are 74 percent more likely to be diabetic, nearly 3 times more likely to suffer from depression, 71 percent more likely to have congestive heart failure, and 64 percent more likely to have a heart attack. Without access to nutritious food, seniors are more likely to live in poor health—this is not the life we want or envision for our older Americans. 
    Senior nutrition programs, such as Meals on Wheels, include meal delivery services and congregate nutrition programs (e.g., those provided at senior centers). For home-bound seniors, meal delivery services are a lifeline; for some, the meals delivered will be the only meal they have to eat all day. Beyond nutrition, meal delivery services provide life-sustaining social interaction and safety checks for older adults; many seniors report going for weeks without seeing another person if not for their home-delivered meals volunteers. Similarly, congregate meals provide the nutrition and social connection needed for seniors to live and thrive in their communities. Senior nutrition programs save taxpayer dollars by reducing more costly health care expenditures such as avoidable trips to the emergency room, and hospital admissions and readmissions. Furthermore, senior nutrition programs can delay or eliminate the need for placement in a long-term care facility. These programs use taxpayer dollars efficiently; the cost of just one day in a hospital or ten days in a nursing home is nearly equivalent to a full year of Meals on Wheels. Cutting senior nutrition programs will increase unnecessary health care expenditures among older adults. 
    In addition, funding from the Social Services Block Grant, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Medicaid, and Social Security and Supplemental Security Income programs administered by the Social Security Administration (SSA) enable seniors to put food on the table and access nutrition support. Enacting policies and funding cuts that force seniors to go hungry is cruel. We ask that you to stand with older Americans and reconsider any efforts to scale back support and back off attacks on the SSA and Administration of Community Living (ACL) programs. 
    We are specifically concerned about the impact of the following actions and proposed cuts:
    The dismantling of the Administration for Community Living threatens the delivery of senior nutrition programs. The Older Americans Act (OAA) is a fundamental source of support for senior nutrition. In 2019, over 223 million meals were provided to older adults through OAA’s Nutrition Programs. ACL is responsible for the delivery of most OAA programs. The Department of Health and Human Services recently proposed a “reorganization” of ACL. However, there has been no clarity or transparency in the proposed reorganization. Transferring ACL programs to the Administration for Children and Families, Assistant Secretary for Planning and Evaluation, and Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services—also reeling from devastating staffing reductions— disrupts implementation of the home-delivered and congregate meals programs. Disruption in program administration and delivery means that the 2.4 million seniors who rely on these meal programs for critical nutrition are at risk of going hungry and of further health complications. We ask that you work with us to ensure the integrity and wholeness of any and all OAA programs that are being transferred out of ACL. 
    Eliminating the Social Services Block Grant and cutting Medicaid take food away from seniors. In addition to OAA funding, the Social Services Block Grant also provides critical support for senior nutrition programs. For example, cuts to the Social Services Block Grant will force the Meals on Wheels program in Abilene, Texas to cut more than half of its services, taking away hot meals and sustenance away from hundreds of Texans who are older adults or people with disabilities. Medicaid can also fill the gap of unmet food needs and reduce the likelihood of nutrition-related health conditions through meal-delivery programs provided through Section 1115 waivers for home-bound older adults and people with disabilities. We ask that you reconsider any potential attacks to the Social Services Block Grant, Medicaid funding and changes to waiver programs that address health- related social issues, and other vital sources of social services funding that help seniors live full and healthy lives. 
    Attacks on Social Security threaten seniors’ food security. The so-called “Department of Government Efficiency” or DOGE’s attack on the SSA has debilitated its ability to provide quality customer service and threatens timely and accurate benefit payments for seniors and people with disabilities. Forty percent of older Americans rely on Social Security as their only source of retirement income—money to make sure they have food on the table. Without their Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits, over half of disabled adult beneficiaries would live below the federal poverty line. Through office closures and slashing of staff, SSA will not be able to provide critical customer services to Social Security beneficiaries. If DOGE continues to toy around with the integrity of the SSA’s payment system, a total collapse may result—seniors will not receive their Social Security checks, and they will go hungry. We ask that you rein in DOGE’s attacks on the SSA and work with us to strengthen the Social Security programs so all Americans can access their earned benefits. 
    Cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. The SNAP Program is the centerpiece of our public anti-hunger infrastructure and is, by far, the biggest food assistance program promoting the food security of Americans. Food insecure seniors consume less energy and have lower intake of key nutrients, and SNAP participation is linked to fewer nursing home and hospital admissions for seniors. SNAP cuts of $230 billion or more, as contemplated by the budget resolution, would fall heavily on senior citizens, who would almost certainly be subject to benefit or eligibility cuts, forcing elderly individuals to make painful choices between purchasing food, medicine, or other daily necessities. We urge you to reconsider any potential cuts to SNAP.
    Republican colleagues, we ask for your commitment to preserving and supporting these programs to ensure that our nation’s seniors have the nutrition and sustenance they need to live healthy, nourished lives in the community.
    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ernst Unleashing Iowa Manufacturing

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA)

    WASHINGTON – During a hearing on unleashing the great American industrial comeback, U.S. Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship Chair Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) discussed how Washington can drive investment into small manufacturers.
    She spoke with Iowan John Mickelson on how Washington can support the flow of private capital to small businesses across the country to empower manufacturers to build and grow right here in America.

    Click here to watch Chair Ernst’s questioning.
    Click here to download photos from the hearing.
    Ernst started off by highlighting success stories of reshoring manufacturing and creating good-paying jobs before emphasizing the important role of Small Business Investment Companies (SBICs) in bolstering American businesses critical to our economic and national security.
    Mickelson emphasized how the Small Business Administration’s (SBA) programs have ensured that capital flows to small manufacturers to allow them to invest in new equipment, hire more employees, and grow their business.
    Hearing witness Brian Riley, whose small business builds bikes right here in the United States, explained how Ernst’s Made in America Manufacturing Act would help small manufacturers grow.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Baldwin, Moody, Welch Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Give Tax Relief to Victims of Fraud, Scams, Theft, and Disasters

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wisconsin Tammy Baldwin
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Ashley Moody (R-FL), and Peter Welch (D-VT) introduced legislation to give relief to those who have been victims of fraud, scams, thefts, accidents, and other personal casualty losses. The Tax Relief for Victims of Crimes, Scams, and Disasters Act reinstates the tax deduction for personal casualty and theft losses and ensures victims of scams, robberies, storms, and fires do not have to pay taxes on stolen assets and further wipe out their hard-earned savings and financial security. 
    “When Wisconsinites fall victim to a fraud or scam, the last thing they should have to worry about is being slapped with an unexpected tax bill once tax season rolls around,” said Senator Baldwin. “I am proud to work with my Republican and Democratic colleagues to introduce this commonsense bill to help make sure if someone is down and out, they have one less thing to worry about than being hit with a tax bill.”
    “As hurricane season is around the corner, I will continue supporting policies that protect Floridians from scammers and fraudsters,” said Senator Moody. “My Tax Relief for Victims of Crimes, Scams and Disasters Act will provide commonsense tax relief for victims, often seniors, who have been financially devastated by scams, crimes or destruction from disasters. This legislation will help folks get back on their feet when they experience hardship. When I was Attorney General of Florida, I made sure to fight for Floridians who fell victim to scams, and I will continue bringing this fight to D.C. so that folks have the protections they need.”
    “It’s outrageous that folks scammed out of their life’s savings are hit with large tax bills. I’m proud to introduce this bill to reinstate this important tax deduction to provide crucial financial relief to those victimized by scams and theft,” said Senator Welch. “Vermont experienced catastrophic floods in July of 2023 and 2024. We know firsthand that victims of floods, storms, and fires go through so much—the last thing they should worry about is being penalized for a natural disaster.”
    Companion legislation will be introduced in the U.S. House by Representatives Jamie Raskin (D-MA-08) and Greg Steube (R-FL-17).
    “Americans who fall prey to scams and rip-offs deserve relief, not massive tax bills from the IRS,” said Rep. Raskin. “Our bipartisan legislation will help millions of Americans, including one of my constituents who was defrauded out of her entire retirement savings and then hit with an enormous tax penalty. I am proud to work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle in the House and the Senate to bring a measure of justice to victims of scams, thefts and disasters.”
    Until 2018, the federal government allowed victims of crimes and unexpected, uninsurable disasters to deduct these losses from their taxes with a provision called the Casualty and Theft Loss Deduction. Today, scam victims and homeowners are on the hook for tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars in federal taxes unless their misfortunes meet a narrow set of criteria.
    The growing sophistication of cybercriminal networks has led to a rapid proliferation in fraud for the past five years. In 2024 alone, American taxpayers reported $16.6 billion in cyber fraud to the FBI. The average victim of elder fraud lost $83,000. Natural disasters are also on the rise during a period of increasing insurance premiums and unexpected claim denials.
    Senator Baldwin introduced this legislation last year after hearing the story of one Wisconsin woman who was scammed out of her entire savings, investments, and 401(k), more than $200,000 in total, and was forced to pay more than $15,000 in taxes.
    Without a reinstatement of the casualty and theft loss deduction, Americans who are victims of theft and non-federally declared disasters will continue to face hefty federal tax bills that the IRS is obligated to enforce.
    The Tax Relief for Victims of Crimes, Scams, and Disasters Act:
    Reinstates the tax deduction for personal casualty loss and provides retroactive coverage to taxpayers who suffered losses in the years that followed.
    Ensures that victims who suffered losses since 2017 are able to file an amended tax return accounting for their personal casualty loss.
    “The Elder Justice Coalition commends Senators Baldwin, Moody and Welch for introducing the Tax Relief for Victims of Crimes, Scams, and Disasters Act,” said Bob Blancato, National Coordinator of the Elder Justice Coalition. “It is unconscionable that older scam victims who lose hundreds of thousands of dollars face the compounded misery of having to pay taxes on the money lost.  Scams are rampant in this nation and serve to exploit the most vulnerable older adults.  We hope Senator Baldwin’s bill can be made part of a future tax package. Tax relief for scam victims is tax fairness.”
    “The Financial Services Institute (FSI) is proud to support the Tax Relief for Victims of Crimes, Scams and Disasters Act,” said Dale Brown, President & CEO of Financial Services Institute. “Owing taxes on stolen retirement funds makes an already painful situation worse. Main Street Americans cannot afford to lose their life savings, which they rely upon for a financially secure retirement. This bill will provide some relief to victims and mitigate damages as they work with their trusted financial advisor to recover losses and regain their financial footing.”
    “With widespread financial fraud and scams impacting many Americans’ retirement security and financial livelihoods, CFP Board enthusiastically supports this critical piece of legislation that would lessen the impact of financial loss. We look forward to seeing this bill get to the finish line,” said Erin Koeppel, Managing Director of Government Relations and Public Policy Counsel at CFP Board.
    “Victims of disasters and theft are taken advantage of far too often,” said Shannon McGahn, EVP & Chief Advocacy Officer for the National Association of REALTORS®. The National Association of REALTORS® is grateful to Representatives Steube and Raskin, along with Senators Moody and Baldwin, for reintroducing the Tax Relief for Victims of Crimes, Scams, and Disasters Act, bipartisan legislation to restore the Casualty and Theft Loss Deduction. This deduction, if reinstated, would ensure that homeowners—especially seniors—who fall victim to uninsurable and unexpected disasters or theft can deduct their losses from their federal taxes. The legislation would protect homeowners from becoming victims again after a disaster, and NAR applauds Congress for putting this legislation forward again.
    “For many years, the AICPA has urged Congress to enact timely, uniform and permanent tax legislation, rather than providing delayed tax relief through separate individual bills following each disaster,” said Melanie Lauridsen, Vice President of Tax Policy and Advocacy, American Institute of CPAs. “Disasters regularly affect taxpayers at all times of the year. However, our current system does not provide fair and reliable tax relief for victims of casualties and thefts. We commend Representatives Steube and Raskin and Senators Moody and Baldwin on introducing legislation that will finally right this wrong, and we look forward to working with them to bring this long overdue relief to American taxpayers.”
    The legislation is endorsed by the AARP, The Elder Justice Coalition, the National Association of Consumer Advocates, AICPA-CIMA, National Association of Enrolled Agents, National Association of Realtors, American Land Title Association, CFP Board, Investment Adviser Association, Financial Services Institute, Aspen Institute Financial Security Program, Association of Mature American Citizens, National Association of Government Defined Contribution Administrators, Operation Shamrock, SPARK Institute.
    A one-pager on this legislation is available here. Full text of the bill is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: IAM Union Joins Other Labor and Workplace Health and Safety Groups Sue to Restore Programs at the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)

    Source: US GOIAM Union

    (Washington, D.C.)—Unions across nursing, education, mining and manufacturing industries, along with a manufacturer of personal protective equipment (PPE), today sued the Trump administration to reverse the illegal dismantling of the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), a component of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). 

    The Trump administration and HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s reckless cuts to NIOSH—made under the direction of Elon Musk’s DOGE—have shut down vital programs and will result in the firing of more than 85% of the staff by July. The chaos of dismantling, temporarily recalling, and piecemeal reinstatements of staff has wreaked havoc on workers’ lives, discontinuing services and programs altogether and creating total disruption in the benefits and protections that workers and the public depend on. 

    Public Citizen Litigation Group and the AFL-CIO’s Office of the General Counsel filed the lawsuit in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia on behalf of unions, workplace safety experts and a PPE manufacturer. The plaintiffs include the AFL-CIO, American Federation of Teachers (AFT), Association of Occupational and Environmental Clinics (AOEC), California Nurses Association/National Nurses Organizing Committee (CNA/NNOC), Dentec Safety Specialists Inc., the IAM Union (IAM), National Federation of Federal Employees (NFFE-IAM), National Nurses United (NNU), New York State Nurses Association (NYSNA), United Auto Workers (UAW), Mine Workers (UMWA) and United Steelworkers (USW).

    As the complaint explains, the cutbacks directly threaten the lives of workers whose safety and health depend on NIOSH, detailing cuts to its vital, congressionally mandated work that all depend on the expertise throughout the whole of the agency, including: 

    • Certifying respirators and testing other PPE and technologies used by workers across industries, including in health care, mining, manufacturing, firefighting and construction, and preventing counterfeits from entering the market.
    • Conducting critical mine safety research and providing medical screenings for coal miners.
    • Investigating workplaces to identify and mitigate exposure to toxins and potential health hazards.
    • Funding the formal training for future industrial hygienists, epidemiologists, physicians, and other occupational safety and health professionals through universities and field-based internships.
    • Providing scientific and technical support to enable medical compensation for nuclear weapons workers and Sept. 11 first responders. 

    On Tuesday, following a sustained outcry from unions, public health experts, and lawmakers,  HHS rescinded the layoff notifications for approximately 300 workers, a fraction of the total NIOSH staff of approximately 1,000 workers. The move came after a judge granted a temporary restraining order late Friday, ordering the Trump administration to stop any moves intended to implement Trump’s February executive order directing agencies to begin major reorganizations. Today’s complaint calls for all NIOSH workers to be reinstated across the agency so that NIOSH can resume its work. 

    “By gutting NIOSH, Elon Musk and his DOGE won’t just be cutting corners—they are cutting lives short and placing working people in danger. Working people have fought too hard for these critical protections to now watch an unelected billionaire dismantle them and take us back to a time when chronic disease and death on the job was commonplace,” said AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler. “I’m proud to stand shoulder to shoulder with unions and partners today in filing this lawsuit to challenge this illegal, reckless and potentially deadly assault on worker health and safety.”

    Each year, more than 5,000 workers die from injuries on the job, 135,000 workers die from occupational disease, and millions more are injured. Without NIOSH, these numbers will increase. The lawsuit follows a May 1 letter from the AFL-CIO and 27 unions urging Congress to intervene to reinstate NIOSH staff and restore its programs. 

    “The illegal firing of NIOSH workers and the gutting of critical safety programs by Elon Musk and the Trump administration will have devastating consequences for American workplaces,” said IAM International President Brian Bryant. “This reckless action threatens our preparedness for workplace violence, emergency planning, chemical and biological threats, and vital worker training. This lawsuit will help us to restore NIOSH’s mission and protect the safety and health of workers throughout our nation.” 

    The complaint can be found online here.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: FBI Seattle and Las Vegas Announce Arrest of Fugitive in Multi-State and Agency Pursuit

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (c)

    On May 13, Damien James Madison, 27, a Washington state resident, was arrested along the California state line near Jean, Nevada, after a week-long manhunt.

    On May 8, Thurston County Sheriff’s Office deputies were attempting to arrest Madison on prior felony charges. During the pursuit, Madison used an AR-15-style rifle to fire on them multiple times. No deputies were hit, but their vehicle was disabled. The Thurston County Sheriff’s Office and the Washington State Department of Corrections requested the assistance of the FBI, along with the South Sound Gang Task Force, to locate and arrest Madison. Over the next week, the FBI along with their state and local partners assisted the Thurston County Sheriff’s Office in trying to locate Madison.

    “Especially during Police Week, it is rewarding to see the federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies in Washington, California, and Nevada join forces to combat violent crime,” said W. Mike Herrington, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Seattle Field Office. “We work violent crime every day, and we encourage our partners to call us whenever we can provide specialized capabilities to assist. In addition, the FBI has a worldwide reach. Especially when violent criminals cross state lines, the FBI is ready with our specialized teams and resources in multiple field offices to track them down and keep our communities safe.”

    The FBI helped coordinate a multi-state and agency effort to locate Madison and his mother who was aiding his attempt to evade capture. Madison and his mother were first located as they were driving eastbound on Interstate 15 in the California desert near Barstow, California. As Madison and his mother entered Nevada, the FBI Las Vegas Criminal Apprehension Team consisting of FBI agents and task force officers were waiting. The team disabled the vehicle Madison and his mother were driving. Madison was then taken into custody without incident.

    “This arrest serves as a notable illustration of how law enforcement partnerships lead to successful apprehensions of dangerous fugitives,” said Spencer L. Evans, special agent in charge of the FBI Las Vegas Field Office. “The subject was taken into custody by our Criminal Apprehension Team, which is led by the FBI and includes the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department, the Henderson Police Department, North Las Vegas Police Department, and the Nevada State Police Patrol and Probation.”

    “Thurston County Sheriff’s Office is extremely grateful for all of our partner agencies along the West Coast who assisted in the seizure of Damien Madison,” said Sheriff Derek Sanders. “We also owe a special thanks to the FBI Criminal Apprehension Team that located Damien and utilized excellent tactics with surgical precision to safely capture him. Strong partnerships across local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies make for safer communities, and our community is a little safer today as a result of that collaboration.”

    “The vast majority of the 13,000 individuals under our supervision follow the law and are taking steps to turn their lives around,” said DOC Secretary Tim Lang. “But when they commit new crimes and try to run, as in this case, quick and effective coordination with local and federal law enforcement can reduce the risk to public safety and bring the individual in to face justice.”

    The agencies involved include:

    • Thurston County Sheriff’s Office in Washington state
    • South Sound Gang Task Force
    • Washington State Department of Corrections Community Response Unit
    • Department of Homeland Security
    • Thurston County Narcotics Task Force
    • California Highway Patrol
    • FBI Fugitive Task Forces
    • Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department
    • Henderson Police Department
    • North Las Vegas Police Department
    • Nevada State Police Patrol and Probation
       

    FBI Seattle is one of the 55 FBI field offices located in the United States. The mission of the FBI is to protect the American people and uphold the Constitution of the United States. For more information, visit fbi.gov or fbi.gov/seattle.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Toronto — Canadian pleads guilty to terrorism charges

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    On May 12, 2025, at the Superior Court of Justice in Toronto, Khalilullah Yousuf (36), of Toronto plead guilty to two charges relating to the largest terrorism financing scheme in Canadian history.

    Between September 2019 and December 2022, Mr. Yousuf used cryptocurrency and money transfers to fund terrorism overseas. Yesterday, in an agreed upon statement of facts, Mr. Yousuf admitted to the financing of terrorism, contrary to section 83.03 of the Criminal Code of Canada.

    As part of the plea agreement, Khalilullah Yousuf has admitted to raising over $15,000 through the platform “GoFundMe” and contributing over $35,000 to multiple receivers for the benefit of Daesh, a listed terrorist organization.

    Regarding the second charge, Mr. Yousuf has plead guilty to participating in the activities of a terrorist group, contrary to section 83.18 of the Criminal Code of Canada. He has admitted to creating and distributing a collection of over 3,800 internet-based hyperlinks. These links were curated with the purpose of radicalizing, indoctrinating and recruiting for the benefit of Daesh, a listed terrorist organization. Between October 2020, and March 2021, Mr. Yousuf communicated with an individual in the United States who was later convicted there for attempting to provide material support to the same listed terrorist organization.

    This is the largest terrorism financing conviction to date in Canada in terms of monetary value. This conviction is also the first successful terrorism financing conviction in Canada where the accused used crypto currency and the first where they used online crowdfunding.

    The success of this RCMP-led project would not be possible without the contributions of the following Canadian partnerships: RCMP Federal Policing Central Region (Ontario) The Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre of Canada (FINTRAC), Forensic Accounting Management Group (FAMG), Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), Public Prosecution Service of Canada (PPSC), Ministry of the Attorney General (MAG), and the Toronto Police Service (TPS).

    The RCMP would also like to recognize and thank our international partners that were instrumental in this file: The Spanish Guardia Civil Special Central Unit 2, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Maldives Police Service.

    “Through partnership and dedication, the GTA Integrated National Security Enforcement Team Terrorist Financing Team halted an individual responsible for supporting terrorist activities. I would like to thank all agencies involved for their collaboration in bringing this investigation to a successful conclusion and assisting in the preservation of public safety.”
    -Superintendent James Parr, Officer in Charge of the Integrated National Security Enforcement Team, Greater Toronto Area.

    Fast Facts

    (Integrated National Security Enforcement Team) is made up of representatives of the RCMP, Municipal and Provincial police forces as well as Federal and Provincial partners and agencies. INSET collects, shares, and analyzes information that concerns threats to National Security and criminal extremism/terrorism.

    If you have concerns that someone is considering, planning, or preparing to commit an act of violence or to help others in committing acts of terrorism, please contact your local police service. It is incumbent to report any suspicious behaviour. If there is an immediate threat to your safety, or the safety of others, please dial 911.

    Non‐emergency tips can be reported to the RCMP National Security Information Network by phone at 1‐800‐420‐5805 or online at www.rcmp.ca/report-it

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: XenDex Prepares to Unveil Platform as $XDX Presale Enters Final Countdown

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SYDNEY, May 15, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Following the successful completion of its soft cap and an influx of thousands of early adopters, XenDex is excited to confirm that Version 1 of its all-in-one decentralized exchange (DEX) is actively in development. A first-look mockup of the platform’s user interface will be revealed in the coming days, offering the community an exclusive preview of what’s to come.

    XenDex V1 is being built as a sleek, intuitive, and beginner-friendly platform that integrates the most in-demand decentralized finance features, all designed specifically for the XRP Ledger. Key functionalities include AI-powered copy trading, non-custodial lending and borrowing, staking and yield farming, cross-chain trading, and DAO governance all seamlessly accessible from a single dashboard.

    Join XenDex Presale Now

    And here’s the game-changer: Early access to XenDex V1 will be exclusively available to $XDX presale participants.

    Why $XDX Is Gaining Massive Traction

    XRP is currently experiencing renewed institutional interest following major milestones such as; SEC’s withdrawal of the Ripple lawsuit, Approval of ProShares’ XRP Futures ETF, Launch of Brazil’s first XRP Spot ETF etc.

    With bullish sentiment returning to the market, analysts and speculators alike are projecting long-term targets as high as $1,000 per XRP. In this surging landscape, XenDex is emerging as the foundational DeFi layer for the XRP ecosystem, with $XDX fueling every key operation on the platform.

    Final Stage of Presale — Limited Supply Remaining

    • Soft Cap: Filled
    • Current Price: 1.25 XRP = 10 XDX
    • Minimum Purchase: 150 XRP
    • Availability: Final allocation currently selling quickly

    Secure Your Tokens Now: https://xendex.net/presale

    $XDX Exchange Listings Confirmed

    Upon conclusion of the presale, $XDX will launch on major exchanges, including:

    • Binance
    • Gate.io
    • MEXC
    • BitMart
    • FirstLedger
    • MagneticX

    Buy XDX on XenDex

    These listings are expected to boost liquidity, increase exposure, and drive global adoption.

    XenDex Feature Highlights

    • AI-Powered Copy Trading
    • Non-Custodial Lending & Borrowing
    • Cross-Chain Trading
    • Staking & Yield Farming
    • DAO Governance

    Don’t Miss the Launch Phase

    Buy $XDX On Presale

    With the mockup reveal imminent, the full DEX release on the horizon, and final $XDX presale tokens disappearing fast, now is the time to join us.

    Be among the first to use the platform. Join the DeFi revolution on XRP.

    Official XenDex Links

    Website: https://xendex.net
    Presale: https://xendex.net/presale
    Telegram: https://t.me/xendexcommunity
    Twitter/X: https://x.com/xendex_xrp
    Docs: https://xdxdocs.gitbook.io

    Contact:
    Frank Richards
    Frank@xendex.net

    Disclaimer: This is a paid post provided by XenDex. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. We do not guarantee any claims, statements, or promises made in this article. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice.

    Investing in crypto and mining-related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. It is possible to lose all your capital. These products may not be suitable for everyone, and you should ensure that you understand the risks involved. Seek independent advice if necessary. Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector—including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining—complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed.
    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. Globenewswire does not endorse any content on this page.

    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 assume no responsibility for any inaccuracies, errors, or omissions. 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/528bccfe-9d9d-442d-8aa5-48ac5566bc0a

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Investing in Central New York’s Downtowns

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul today announced awards for a total of 20 transformational projects in Central New York as part of two economic development programs: the Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY Forward. Nine projects were announced for Aurora, Cayuga and Union Springs, the joint Round 7 winner of a $10 million DRI award; seven projects were announced for Canastota, a Round 2 winner of a $4.5 million NY Forward award; and four projects were announced for Brewerton, also a Round 2 winner of a $4.5 million NY Forward award.

    “Central New York is at the forefront of the economic resurgence sweeping across our state, and I’m investing in 20 projects that will transform our towns and villages, and strengthen the communities around them,” Governor Hochul said. “When we invest in our communities, we make it easier for families and businesses to do what they do best with the freedom to do it better — that’s why I’m fighting to make our neighborhoods better for generations to come.”

    New York Secretary of State Walter T. Mosley said, “When we invest in our downtowns, we’re investing in the heart of our communities. Through the Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY Forward program, we’re not just funding projects – we’re fostering vibrant, walkable neighborhoods that spur economic growth, enhance quality of life for residents and preserve the unique character of each municipality and region. These signature programs exemplify our commitment to ensuring that every New Yorker, in every corner of our State, has the opportunity to succeed and thrive.”

    The 9 Aurora, Cayuga and Union Springs DRI projects, totaling $9.7 million, include:

    • Redevelopment of Beacon Bay Marina ($2,500,000): Redevelop the existing building into new lodging units, a property manager’s apartment and a small open-air gathering space primarily for lodging guests. The project also includes the installation of new docks to accommodate additional boating activity.
    • Improvements to Frontenac Park ($1,338,000): Develop new pathways for pedestrian circulation, new pay station and accommodations for parking. The project also includes repurposing of the house at the end of Factory Street into a recreation office and community gathering space, creation of a new patio for outdoor recreation programming and classes, addition of a new picnic shelter and restoration of lawn areas.
    • Transformation of McIntosh Park ($2,083,000): Transform McIntosh Park through renovations that include drainage improvements, paved entrance road and parking, basketball and pickleball courts, relocation of the existing tee-ball field, new benches, construction of an inclusive playground and a new pavilion.
    • Development of Mixed-Use Building at 143 Cayuga Street ($1,428,000): Construct a new multi-story, mixed-use building that will include apartments on the upper floors and retail space on the ground floor.
    • Construction of a Southern Gateway: Aurora Waterfront Park ($773,000): Construct a Southern Gateway Park by repurposing the old railway bed into a durable, shared use, ADA compliant trail. Additional park features include new signage, a new parking area, picnic tables with grills and shade trees. The project will also include an accessible canoe/kayak launch, kayak storage rack and Blueway launch site signage, Blueway Trail kiosk, benches along the trail and a concrete sidewall.
    • Development of Marina Gateway and Storefront Entrance, Waterfront Café and Additional Boat Service Facilities ($589,000): Develop a marina gateway via removal of structures at 107 Cayuga Street, new storefront entrance for the Marina show room and construction of triple bay service and parts facility. The project also includes the construction of a waterfront café to be open for year-round use.
    • Development of Apartments at 6200 Center Street ($446,000): Adaptive reuse of an existing building at 6200 Center Street into two-bedroom loft style apartments and associated storage spaces for residents.
    • Restoration of the Historic Patrick Tavern Building and Development of Tavern Green at 302 Main Street ($363,000): Restore Patrick Tavern including the addition of an historically accurate covered porch along the Village’s Main Street façade. The project also includes the replacement of the roof, windows and doors as well as new interpretive signage, sidewalk connection, bike racks, storage room, new exterior lighting, a stone patio and stone wall and ADA accessible ramps. Behind the building, a new green space will be developed to allow for markets and events.
    • Upgrades to Community Center and New Accessible Entrance at 337 Main Street ($180,000): Install a new ADA accessible entryway with improved lighting, signage and a sidewalk connection to existing public walk. The project provides updates to the existing meeting space including the replacement of flooring, new lighting, reconstruction of the kitchen and HVAC installation.

    Village of Canastota

    The Village of Canastota has demonstrated that it is ready for transformative growth with its historic village, past investments and abundant recreational opportunities. The NY Forward projects identified will capitalize on these assets and redevelop vacant sites, while also restoring and enhancing the Village’s rural charm and Erie Canal heritage.

    The 7 Canastota NY Forward Projects, totaling $4.5 Million, include:

    • Develop a Mixed-Use Pocket Neighborhood with Cafe Retail Space & Community Amenities on the Erie Canal ($500,000): Construct a retail space within a new “Canalside Pocket Neighborhood,” a multi-building mixed-use housing project. The total pocket neighborhood project will redevelop a vacant site one block from downtown and feature approximately 51 new housing units for diverse income groups that consist of 7–12 new buildings, including single-family homes, townhomes, senior housing, an apartment complex, retail and community amenities.
    • Expand ZEMS/Penny’s to Create New Community Gathering Space South of the Canal ($239,000): Create a two-acre public space in front of ZEMS/Penny’s, renovate the local businesses’ interior and add 600 feet of new sidewalk, a gazebo, music stage and pavilion. The interior expansion will create more retail space and a multipurpose community space. The sidewalk improvements will facilitate greater connectivity between local trails and downtown.
    • Convert Vacant Canal Street Building into NYS Farm Craft Brewing Facility ($575,000): Convert a vacant historic Erie Canal building into a NYS farm brewery and tourist destination. The renovation will involve converting the interior into a brew facility, tasting room, educational venue and packaging facility for off-premises sales. The exterior renovations will include Erie Canal themed exteriors and ample visitor parking.
    • Transform Vacant Historic Farr Building into Erie Canal Brewing Company Taproom & Village Welcome Center ($450,000): Restore an unoccupied historic building to a productive facility, promoting local economic growth, creating jobs, providing affordable apartments, attracting tourism and providing event space. The taproom will feature NY craft beer, wine and locally sourced food.
    • Renovate Historic Building at 138 Canal Street for Commercial Use ($172,000): Revive one of the oldest original structures along the Erie Canal through a complete building renovation that will include a new facade, front porch, walkways and interior finishes. The first floor of the completed project will be marketed for lease to local retail or food and beverage establishments at below-market rents, attracting entrepreneurs to the location.
    • Enhance North Canal Street to Improve Public Space, Walkability and Recreational Opportunities ($1,706,000): Revitalize space adjacent to the historic Erie Canal into a new Village park, incorporating streetscape improvements, Rotary Park enhancements, a canal overlook, a canal-front pavilion, water circulation features and boat launch.
    • Renovate Canastota Fire House for Improved Community Use & Greater Accessibility ($858,000): The project will modernize the Canastota Fire House’s public meeting space for ADA accessibility and enhanced energy efficiency. It includes an elevator installation and restroom renovation for ADA compliance, window replacement, interior improvements and exterior rehabilitation.

    Hamlet of Brewerton

    With its proximity to the Micron semi-conductor site, the Hamlet of Brewerton’s NY Forward projects are being viewed as the first step towards intentional, strategic and collaborative planning. The development of these projects will welcome new residents, visitors, and businesses in the years to come. The combination of public and private improvements will lay the foundation for future private sector investments that will attract more businesses and events to the downtown.

    The 4 Brewerton NY Forward Projects, totaling $4.5 Million, include:

    • Construct 9693 Brewerton Road Mixed Use Development ($1,600,000): Create new retail and residential space in the heart of the NYF area. The development will include a mixed-use building and energy-efficient townhomes.
    • Enhance Lighthouse Park ($1,500,000): Enhance waterfront recreation by adding a two-slip public boat launch, ADA-compliant fishing platform and kayak launch, nature play facility and a new restroom at Lighthouse Park.
    • Construct Apartment Buildings at 9602 Brewerton Road ($1,000,000): Construct two eight-unit buildings in phase 1 and twenty tiny homes in phase 2 within walking access to Oneida Lake and local businesses.
    • Renovate Brewerton Library ($400,000): Expand the library’s role as a community hub by adding a small café space, public meeting room, additional restrooms, a visitor information center and an outdoor seating area.

    Empire State Development President, CEO, and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “The Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY Forward programs are transforming communities across New York State by turning local visions into bold investments to generate place-based economic development. These projects will create new opportunities for businesses, support vibrant public spaces, and attract residents and visitors alike – laying the foundation for sustainable growth and stronger regional economies.”

    New York State Homes and Community Renewal Commissioner RuthAnne Visnauskas said, “All across this State, the Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY Forward programs are strategically prioritizing communities, growing economies with targeted awards, creating more housing opportunities that improve affordability for New Yorkers where it is most needed, and building on the diverse character of our neighborhoods. By working with local and municipal partners, these awards continue Governor Hochul’s commitment to developing the full potential of our downtowns as economic drivers and attractive places to live.”

    Central New York Regional Economic Development Council Co-Chairs Randy Wolken and Linda M. LeMura said, “The CNYREDC is incredibly proud to continue our support for the communities of Aurora, Cayuga, Union Springs, Canastota and Brewerton and their exciting futures thanks to the Governor’s Downtown Revitalization and New York Forward Initiatives. These 20 selected, community-driven projects will benefit both residents and visitors alike, promoting economic growth and creating a more vibrant downtown-a place where people will want to live, work, and play for generations to come.”

    State Senator Christopher Ryan said, “These investments in Canastota and Brewerton represent more than bricks and mortar. They’re about building community, honoring heritage, and preparing for the future. In Canastota, we’re breathing new life into our Erie Canal legacy, creating new housing and business opportunities while strengthening our identity as a historic and welcoming village. In Brewerton, we’re laying the groundwork for smart, strategic growth that aligns with the region’s evolving potential, especially as Micron transforms our economic landscape. I’m proud to support these forward-looking projects that will bring lasting benefits to residents and businesses alike and thank Governor Hochul for her commitment to our region.”

    State Senator Rachel May said, “Central New York is full of vibrant downtowns where friends can gather to enjoy great dining, theater, art, and outdoor activities. With nearly $10 million allocated through the Downtown Revitalization Initiative, buildings, parks, and waterfronts in Cayuga County will be enhanced, making these spaces more enjoyable and accessible. Thank you to our local leaders for ensuring that these public areas continue to enrich the lives of residents, and to Governor Hochul and my colleagues for continuing to support the DRI program that serves so many Upstate communities.”

    Assemblymember Al Stirpe said, “The implementation of these projects sets the stage for Central New York to shine, bringing out the best aspects of our communities for years to come. I am proud to support NY Forward’s initiatives in Brewerton, as they revitalize this area’s unique waterfront community with enhanced residential spaces and recreational opportunities for all. As our region’s economic capacity continues to expand, Central New York is committed to be a vibrant and affordable place to work, raise a family, and live a good life.”

    Village of Cayuga Mayor Don Wilson Jr. said, “It is with great honor and gratitude that the Village of Cayuga receive this investment from the taxpayers of New York. I congratulate our neighbors, Union Springs and Aurora, and look forward to continuing this momentum into the future.”

    Village of Aurora Mayor Jim Orman said, “One year ago Wells College closed. The Village of Aurora lost over half of its population. This DRI award will provide the first tangible step to begin the renaissance of Aurora. We have already attracted the interest of an investor to build homes and small businesses across from this new park. This transformational award will provide the initial boost in our long term economic development growth.”

    Village of Union Springs Mayor Robert C. Thurston Jr. said, “The Village of Union Springs ecstatic following the announcement of the projects selected for the Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI). These transformative projects are destined to generate a significant and lasting impact not only on the village itself but also on the wider region. The selection of these DRI projects marks a pivotal moment for Union Springs. These initiatives are exceptionally important to our community, and we are confident that upon their completion, their positive effects will be felt for generations to come. This investment will be truly transformative. The Village of Union Springs eagerly anticipates the commencement of these projects and the vibrant future they will help create for residents and visitors alike.”

    Village of Canastota Mayor Rosanne Warner said, “The Village of Canastota is very excited about the economic and social benefits these NY Forward projects will bring to our community, and we are confident that this investment into our village will spur additional revitalization efforts. On behalf of the residents of Canastota I would like to sincerely thank Governor Hochul, the Department of State, and Empire State Development, for their faith in our projects which hold great promise to be truly transformative. We thank all of the businesses who submitted projects for this highly competitive grant and look forward to starting the next phase of this process which will bring positive changes to our 215-year-old historic downtown.”

    Town of Hastings Supervisor Tony Bush said, “I and the Town of Hastings are so thankful for this Grant in regards to the Lighthouse Park. I want to thank the Governor and all that were involved in making this happen. This money will help enhance our park and usage, with boats, kayaks and family get together. Our Town can not thank you enough.”

    DRI and NY Forward communities developed Strategic Implementation Plans (SIPs), which create a vision for the future of their downtown and identify and recommend a slate of complementary, transformative and implementable projects that support that vision. The SIPs are guided by a Local Planning Committee (LPC) comprised of local and regional leaders, stakeholders and community representatives, with the assistance of an assigned consultant and DOS staff, all of whom conduct extensive community outreach and engagement when determining projects. The projects selected for funding from the SIP were identified as having the greatest potential to jumpstart revitalization and generate new opportunities for long-term growth.

    About the Downtown Revitalization Initiative
    The Downtown Revitalization Initiative was created in 2016 to accelerate and expand the revitalization of downtowns and neighborhoods in all ten regions of the state to serve as centers of activity and catalysts for investment. Led by the Department of State with assistance from Empire State Development, Homes and Community Renewal and NYSERDA, the DRI represents an unprecedented and innovative “plan-then-act” strategy that couples strategic planning with immediate implementation and results in compact, walkable downtowns that are a key ingredient to helping New York State strengthen its economy, as well as to achieving the State’s bold climate goals by promoting the use of public transit and reducing dependence on private vehicles. Through nine rounds, the DRI has awarded a total of $900 million to 91 communities across every region of the State.

    About the NY Forward Program
    First announced as part of the 2022 Budget, Governor Hochul created the NY Forward program to build on the momentum created by the DRI. The program works in concert with the DRI to accelerate and expand the revitalization of smaller and rural downtowns throughout the State so that all communities can benefit from the State’s revitalization efforts, regardless of size, character, needs and challenges

    NY Forward communities are supported by a professional planning consultant and team of State agency experts led by DOS to develop a Strategic Investment Plan that includes a slate of transformative, complementary and readily implementable projects. NY Forward projects are appropriately scaled to the size of each community; projects may include building renovation and redevelopment, new construction or creation of new or improved public spaces and other projects that enhance specific cultural and historical qualities that define and distinguish the small-town charm that defines these municipalities. Through three rounds, the NY Forward program has awarded a total of $300 million to 60 communities across every region of the State.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Solutions30 announces the appointment of three new CEOs for France, Germany and Belgium

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Solutions30, the European leader in multi-technical field services for the telecommunications, energy, and IT sectors, announces the appointment of Antoine Mirabel as CEO of its operations in France. He succeeds Amaury Boilot, who had been serving in this role on an interim basis since June 2023, in addition to his group-level responsibilities. The Group also announces the appointment of Oliver Fidorra as Co-CEO of its operations in Germany, alongside Luc Brusselaers, who also serves as the Group’s Chief Revenue Officer. Finally, in Belgium, Axel Vandevenne has been appointed Co-CEO, tasked with leading and developing local operations alongside Raf Winnelinckx.

    Antoine Mirabel was previously an Associate Partner at Bain & Company. With nearly 15 years of experience in strategy and management consulting, particularly focused on the energy sector, he brings deep expertise in performance improvement, operational excellence, integration, and extensive experience in digital transformation projects. Antoine Mirabel is a graduate of Télécom Paris and HEC. Following a transition period with Antoine Mirabel, Amaury Boilot will retain his role as Group Secretary General, which includes oversight of the Group’s administrative and financial management.

    Oliver Fidorra brings nearly 20 years of experience in the construction sector, with particular expertise in fiber optic deployment, energy infrastructure, building technical equipment, and civil engineering. Prior to joining Solutions30, he served as Regional Director North and was a member of the management team at Vitronet.

    Axel Vandevenne, with Solutions30 since 2018, has held several managerial positions within the Group, demonstrating strong operational leadership. Prior to joining the Group, he gained solid experience in the telecommunications sector, having worked for the two largest Belgian operators, Proximus and Telenet, where he served as Director of Operations. He holds both a Master of Engineering and a Master of Business. His appointment as Co-Managing Director for Belgium is part of an ongoing effort to strengthen the organization in this strategic market. In this context, Jonathan Crauwels will refocus on his role as Chief Financial Officer of Solutions30 Belgium.

    Gianbeppi Fortis, Chairman of the Management Board of Solutions30, stated: “We welcome Antoine and Oliver, whose expertise and leadership will be invaluable assets in supporting the Group’s development. Antoine will lead the transformation of our French operations, successfully initiated by Amaury, with the objective of tripling revenue in energy services by 2026. Meanwhile, Oliver, alongside Luc, will drive the continued growth of our operations in Germany, where we are also targeting a threefold increase in revenue by 2026. In Belgium, Axel and Raf will work closely together to build a sustainable organizational structure and support our growth.”

    About Solutions30 SE

    Solutions30’s mission is to make the technological developments that are transforming our daily lives accessible to everyone, individuals and businesses alike, especially with regard to the digital transformation and the energy transition. With its network of more than 16,000 technicians, Solutions30 has completed over 65 million call-outs since its inception and led over 500 renewable energy projects with a combined maximum output surpassing 1800 MWp. Every day, Solutions30 is doing its part to build a more connected and sustainable world. Solutions30 has become an industry leader in Europe with operations in 10 countries: France, Italy, Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg, Spain, Portugal, the United Kingdom, and Poland. The capital of Solutions30 SE consists of 107,127,984 shares, equal to the number of theoretical votes that can be exercised. Solutions30 SE is listed on the Euronext Paris exchange (ISIN FR0013379484- code S30). Indices : CAC Mid & Small | CAC Small | CAC Technology | Euro Stoxx Total Market Technology | Euronext Tech Croissance.

    Visit our website to learn more: www.solutions30.com

    Contact

    Individual Shareholders:

    actionnaires@solutions30.com – Tel: +33 1 86 86 00 63

    Analysts/Investors:
         investor.relations@solutions30.com

    Press – Image 7:
     Charlotte Le Barbier – Tel: +33 6 78 37 27 60 – clebarbier@image7.fr

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –