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Category: housing

  • MIL-OSI USA: Lankford, Steube Protect Charities from Government Overreach

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Oklahoma James Lankford

    OKLAHOMA CITY, OK — Senator James Lankford (R-OK) and Congressman Greg Steube (R-FL) introduced the Safeguarding Charity Act to protect the independence of our nation’s tax-exempt organizations. It safeguards churches, nonprofits, and private schools from a perilous line of litigation in federal courts that could subject them to burdensome federal regulations.

    “Tax-exempt organizations should not live in fear of federal control every day because courts want to redefine the meaning of tax-exempt status. Tax-exempt status is not the same as receiving federal funding, and it should not be used as political leverage against the nonprofits in Oklahoma and across the nation,” said Lankford. “We should be focused on enabling the work of these organizations—not burdening them with unnecessary and costly federal requirements.”

    “Radical judges do not have the authority to twist federal law and force religious institutions to choose between their convictions and compliance,” said Steube. “The Safeguarding Charity Act reaffirms that tax-exempt status does not mean an organization is receiving federal financial assistance. This bill is about protecting churches, religious schools, and charities from federal overreach. I’m grateful to Senator Lankford for his leadership on this important effort in the Senate.”

    “Charities and other nonprofits provide invaluable services to their communities,” said Greg Baylor, Alliance Defending Freedom (ADF) Senior Counsel. “In part to recognize their critical work, nonprofits are tax-exempt so that they can devote scarce resources to serving those in need. Until recently, no one really thought that their tax-exempt status was the sort of “federal financial assistance” that triggered the application of several burdensome federal statutes and regulations. But some courts have embraced this unfounded view, and Congress needs to set things straight. Let’s be clear: a nonprofit’s tax-exempt status should not be considered government funding and thus should not trigger multiple burdensome federal laws under which charities and other nonprofits could lose their tax-exempt status. ADF commends Sen. Lankford and Rep. Steube for introducing the Safeguarding Charity Act to protect nonprofits from these financially crushing burdens so that nonprofits can continue to serve their communities free from unfair and unexpected government overreach.” 

    “ACSI commends Senator Lankford and Congressman Steube for their leadership in introducing the Safeguarding Charity Act,” said P. George Tryfiates, VP for Public Policy and Legal Affairs at the Association of Christian Schools International. “This legislation is critical to set the record straight: an organization’s nonprofit status is not the receipt of federal financial assistance. It never has been. It is not now. Politically motivated lawsuits based on this false premise must stop, or else all nonprofits will be at risk. We urge every member of Congress to support the Safeguarding Charity Act.” 

    “Agudath Israel of America is pleased to support the ‘Safeguarding Charity Act (SCA),’ introduced by Senator James Lankford and Representative Greg Steube,” said Rabbi Abba Cohen, VP for Government Affairs of Agudath Israel of America. “This legislation is vitally important to nonprofits across the country, including synagogues, religious schools and charities within the Jewish community.  It will enshrine into law that which has generally been understood that ‘tax-exempt status’ does not constitute ‘federal financial assistance.’” 

    Background

    The legislation is also supported by Philanthropy Roundtable, Seventh-day Adventist Church, ERLC,  American Association of Christian Schools, Association for Biblical Higher Education, Family Research Council, Citygate Network, Christian Employers Alliance, and National Hispanic Christian Leadership Conference.

    Lankford first introduced the legislation with Congressman Steube in 2024.

    In 2023, Lankford also introduced the Charitable Act to incentivize giving to America’s nonprofits. The bill would expand and extend the expired non-itemized deduction for charitable giving that would ensure Americans who donate to charities, houses of worship, religious organizations, and other nonprofits of their choice are able to deduct that donation from their federal taxes at a higher level than the previous $300 deduction.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 15, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Gomez Demands Accountability for Closure of Key HHS Offices, Including San Francisco

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jimmy Gomez (CA-34)

    Brutal Cuts compromise the health of 166 million Americans, other impact includes long delays and skyrocketing caseloads 

    WASHINGTON, DC – Representative Jimmy Gomez (CA-34) joined House Ways and Means Committee Democrats in demanding answers from the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) Robert F. Kennedy Jr. on the closure of half of all HHS Regional Offices. These Regional Offices (RO) have collaborated with state and local communities to ensure that nursing homes and childcare centers are safe, local fraud is rooted out, federal law is followed, and state and local communities have a voice in federal policies for over 50 years. The closure of these offices will profoundly endanger communities across America.  

    The affected ROs were in Boston, New York City, Chicago, San Francisco, and Seattle. This gross act of retribution will not only compromise the health of 166 million Americans, but also put remaining ROs under even more stress, with long delays and skyrocketing caseloads because of the brutal cuts.   

    “Since 1974 when the Nixon Administration created the 10-region structure to facilitate efficiency and collaboration at a local level, ROs have partnered with state and local communities to ensure that nursing homes and child care centers are safe, local fraud is rooted out, federal law is followed, and state and local communities have a voice in federal policies,” Gomez and lawmakers wrote. “Eliminating these functions in half of the country will harm the health and safety of local communities and risks inappropriate use of taxpayer dollars by eroding oversight over programs like Medicare and Medicaid.”   

    The lawmakers continued, “Staff in these offices work on essential functions to improve quality and reduce waste, fraud, and abuse in federal health care programs and ensure human service programs support vulnerable children and families—the value these offices bring to all of our communities cannot be overstated.”  

    Finally, the Gomez and his colleagues wrote: “Simply put, they make our communities healthier and safer for us all.”   

    Read the full letter HERE. 

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 15, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Maine PUC Observes National Safe Digging Month in April

    Source: US State of Maine

    April 14, 2025

    Hallowell, Maine – The Maine Public Utilities Commission (Commission) is joining other utility regulators, public safety advocates, and industry professionals across the country in recognizing April as National Safe Digging Month. Governor Janet Mills has officially proclaimed April as Safe Digging Month in Maine, urging homeowners, contractors, and excavators to always call 811 before starting any outdoor digging projects.

    Calling 811 before digging can prevent damage to underground utility lines, avoid costly repairs, and most importantly, help keep people safe.

    “The Commission is committed to public safety and urges all residents and businesses to make the call to 811 before digging,” said Philip L. Bartlett II, Chair of the Maine Public Utilities Commission. Safe Digging Month is a reminder that protecting underground infrastructure is a shared responsibility. Taking just a few minutes to contact 811 before digging can prevent accidents and ensure a safer Maine.

    Whether planting a tree, installing a fence, or undertaking major excavation work, calling 811 at least 72 hours in advance is a free and necessary step that helps locate and mark underground utility lines. Striking gas, electric, water, or communication lines can cause serious injuries, service outages, and expensive repairs.

    To ensure a safe and smooth digging process, homeowners should follow these key steps:

    1. Plan Ahead: Determine the scope and location of your project before calling 811.

    2. Call 811 Before You Dig: Contact Dig Safe by dialing 811 at least 72 hours before digging to have underground utilities marked.

    3. Wait for Utility Markings: Professional locators will visit your property to mark underground utility lines using paint or flags. Each color represents a different type of utility.

    4. Respect the Marks: Avoid digging within 18 to 24 inches of marked utility lines to prevent accidental damage.

    5. Dig with Care: Use hand tools when working near utility marks and proceed cautiously.

    6. If You Hit a Utility Line, Stop Immediately: Leave the area and call 911 if there is a gas leak or other hazard.

    Report any damage to the appropriate utility company. Calling 811 before digging is free, required by law, and helps protect both people and infrastructure. For more information about safe digging practices, visit www.DigSafe.com or www.maine.gov/mpuc.

    About the Commission

    The Maine Public Utilities Commission regulates electric, telephone, water and gas utilities to ensure that Maine citizens have access to safe and reliable utility service at rates that are just and reasonable for ratepayers and utilities, while also helping achieve reductions in state greenhouse gas emissions. Commission programs include Maine Enhanced 911 Service and safety programs. Philip L. Bartlett II serves as Chair, Patrick Scully and Carolyn Gilbert serve as Commissioners.

    The Damage Prevention section of the Commission’s Consumer Assistance and Safety Division (CASD) is charged with enforcing Maines underground facilities damage prevention law, called the Dig Safe Law (23 M.R.S. 3360-A). This law is intended to prevent damage to underground utility facilities such as gas lines, water lines, or underground telecommunications and electric cables resulting from excavation.

    Learn more about the Commission at www.maine.gov/mpuc

    CONTACT: Susan Faloon, Media Liaison CELL: 207-557-3704 EMAIL: susan.faloon@maine.gov

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 15, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: United States Department of Justice Transfers 13 Mexican Nationals with Drug Convictions to Mexico Pursuant to the U.S.-Mexico International Prisoner Transfer Treaty

    Source: United States Attorneys General

    The U.S. Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs with the assistance of the Department’s Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) transferred 13 Mexican nationals, serving prison sentences for drug distribution-related convictions in the United States, to their home country on Friday.

    “Friday’s transfer of 13 federal inmates to correctional authorities in Mexico has saved the United States over $3 million by eliminating the need to pay incarceration costs for the 75 years remaining on their combined sentences,” said Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “The Justice Department’s International Prisoner Transfer Program, which is administered by the Criminal Division’s Office of International Affairs, enhances offender rehabilitation, reduces incarceration costs, and relieves overcrowding in federal prisons. The transfer is pursuant to the Treaty between the United States of America and the United Mexican States on the Execution of the Penal Sentences.”

    All 13 inmates transferred today were serving sentences relating to the distribution of controlled substances, including cocaine, methamphetamine, and fentanyl. The inmates will complete the remainder of their sentences in Mexico pursuant to the treaty. The inmates requested to be transferred to their home country, and the governments of both the United States and Mexico approved these transfers.

    The U.S. Congress enacted legislation authorizing the International Prisoner Transfer Program in October 1977, which also set the requirements of the transfer program. The United States signed its first transfer treaty with Mexico in 1976, which entered into force in November 1977, and since that time has entered into 10 additional bilateral transfer agreements and two multilateral transfer conventions. These international agreements give the United States transfer treaty relationships with more than 85 countries.

    The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs’s International Prisoner Transfer Unit (IPTU) administers the program. Under the program, approved foreign national inmates in federal and state prisons are permitted, under certain circumstances, to complete their prison terms in their home countries’ prisons.

    This is the 184th such transfer since the treaty entered into force in 1977. The last transfer prior to today, which took place in December 2024, transferred nine inmates to Mexico pursuant to the treaty. To learn more about the International Prisoner Transfer Program, visit: https://www.justice.gov/criminal/criminal-oia/iptu 

    MIL Security OSI –

    April 15, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: Blockgraph and the 4As Partner to Release New Research About the Power of Household Identity in the New TV Era

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, April 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Blockgraph, the privacy-first data collaboration platform designed to fuel the future of connected TV advertising, and the American Association of Advertising Agencies (“the 4As”) today announced the release of a new research report titled, “Reconvening in the Home: The Power of Household Identity in the New TV Era”. Ahead of this year’s upfronts, the research offers a strategic roadmap, revealing how household identity will increasingly play a central role in shaping upfront negotiations, outcome-based guarantees, multi-screen media planning, and performance-based measurement.

    The television landscape continues to shift and marketers and advertisers are faced with a rapidly evolving macroeconomic environment where more sophisticated audience measurement tools are now required to connect households to outcomes.

    “Household identity is an important strategy for reimagining how advertisers connect real-world behaviors and decision-making dynamics,” asserted Ashwini Karandikar, EVP, Media Tech & Data at the 4As. “The environment has never been more complex with today’s fragmented TV ecosystem, coupled with the inefficiencies in targeting and gaps in measurement. This research informs advertisers, agencies and publishers about how they can optimize their strategies across platforms while prioritizing consumer privacy and data security.”

    Key findings and insights from the research include:

    1. The Importance of Household Strategies: The study details why household-level identity is essential for omnichannel advertisers to optimize their campaigns and measure performance across multiple touchpoints. Household identity enables brands to more precisely understand consumer behavior, ensuring more effective targeting and performance assessment.
    2. Addressing Privacy Regulations and Signal Loss: With increasing privacy regulations and the diminishing availability of traditional signals like IP addresses and cookies, the report explains how household identity can thrive in this new environment. It also highlights why person-based identity is no longer sufficient and how shifting to a household-first approach is essential for privacy-compliant, effective targeting.
    3. Approaches to Household Identity Resolution: The research provides a practical guide to leveraging first-party, second-party, and third-party data for household-level targeting and measurement. By integrating these data sources, marketers can create more comprehensive, accurate audience profiles, driving better campaign outcomes.
    4. Steps to Create and Execute a Household Identity Strategy: The report offers a step-by-step guide for marketers looking to future-proof their identity strategy, outlining how to create a robust, scalable approach that ensures long-term success in the rapidly changing advertising ecosystem.

    “The household is the heartbeat of how TV is experienced today. When marketers can connect media exposure to real world outcomes at the household level it unlocks a true understanding of performance,” commented Jason Manningham, CEO of Blockgraph. “The future of TV is predicated on effective outcome-based measurement and campaign planning, but that only works when grounded in high quality, first party identity.”

    “This report showcases just how valuable, accurate, and dependable household identity can be in shaping future innovations in TV advertising,” said Jason Brown, Senior Vice President, Chief Revenue Officer for Spectrum Reach. “In today’s advertising environment, embracing household identity data is essential for brands to stay competitive. Blockgraph, and the 4A’s are simplifying that task by providing insights that enable advertisers to effectively target, reach, and measure audiences across all platforms–making the most of their ad budgets.”

    “With signal loss and growing fragmentation, it is more and more important to ground your strategy in the ability to distinguish households in order to support more accurate audience identity and measurement and to optimize the effectiveness of media spend,” added Carmela Fournier, VP and GM of Data, Comcast Advertising.

    The full research report is available for download on the 4A’s website here: https://www.aaaa.org/resource/reconvening-in-the-home-the-power-of-household-identity-in-the-new-tv-era.

    About Blockgraph
    Blockgraph is a leading privacy-centric identity and data collaboration platform
    designed to fuel the future of connected TV advertising. By enabling secure, privacy-focused household identity resolution, the world’s leading media, technology, and information services companies rely on Blockgraph to collaborate with trusted partners—empowering brands and agencies to connect with audiences more effectively, maximizing reach and performance while protecting consumer privacy. Blockgraph is owned by Charter Communications Inc., Comcast NBCUniversal, and Paramount.

    About the 4As
    The 4As was established in 1917 to promote, advance, and defend the interests of our member agencies, employees and the advertising and marketing industries overall. We empower and equip our members to confidently navigate the ever-changing ecosystem of the agency world. We ensure they remain relevant, are positioned to compete, and have the resources to thrive and grow. With a focus on advocacy, talent and creating impact, the organization serves 600+ member agencies across 1,200 offices, which help direct more than 85% of total U.S. advertising spend. The 4As includes the 4As Benefits division, which insures more than 160,000 employees; the government relations team, who advocate for policies to support the industry; and the 4As Foundation, which advocates for and connects rising talent to the marketing industry by fostering a culture of curiosity, creativity and craft to fuel a more equitable future for the industry.

    Contact:
    Alexandra Levy
    650-996-5758
    alex@siliconalley-media.com

    The MIL Network –

    April 15, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Royal Society role at ARU for 3D printing expert

    Source: Anglia Ruskin University

    Dr Martin McMahon, a leading expert in 3D printing, has been selected by the Royal Society as one of its Entrepreneurs in Residence.

    Dr McMahon, who will lead the cutting-edge Additive Anglia project at Anglia Ruskin University (ARU), is one of just 15 business leaders, entrepreneurs and scientists from across the UK to have been selected for the prestigious scheme. 

    The Royal Society’s Entrepreneur in Residence programme aims to embed industry expertise within universities, improving awareness of the latest research and development advances while also addressing some of the scientific challenges faced by businesses.

    In addition to his role at ARU, Dr McMahon is an independent consultant specialising in additive manufacturing, which is commonly referred to as 3D printing.

    As a trained metallurgist, he specialises in metal 3D printing, and ARU’s School of Engineering and the Built Environment is home to the only metal 3D printing system in East Anglia.

    ARU’s new Additive Anglia project will be integrating 3D printing technologies into the university curriculum and establishing a 3D printing hub in the East of England.

    The initiative involves forming a network with other universities in the region to allow easier access to these technologies for both academic and industry partners. The project also aims to enhance the quality of 3D printed parts, accelerate build rates, and minimise scrap rates.

    “I’m honoured to receive the Entrepreneur in Residence award from the Royal Society. ARU’s Additive Manufacturing facilities are exceptional, and I intend to expand their use, raise awareness of the possibilities of 3D printing right across the university, and strengthen our connections with local industries and other universities.

    “Over the past five years, 3D printing has become much more widely recognised and is now firmly in the public consciousness. The Additive Anglia project will establish ARU as a true centre of excellence for 3D printing, opening up this technology to various sectors and scales of business, including small and medium sized enterprises.”

    Dr Martin McMahon

    “I am delighted to welcome Martin to the University and am excited about how we can apply additive manufacturing across so many different disciplines. Crucially, ARU’s engineering students will also be graduating with the latest knowledge and skills needed by industry, meaning they continue to be employment-ready.”

    Mark Tree, Head of the School of Engineering and the Built Environment, ARU

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    April 15, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Mayor’s ‘One Big Weekend, One Big Cause’ set to rock Derry

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    Mayor’s ‘One Big Weekend, One Big Cause’ set to rock Derry

    14 April 2025

    An incredible weekend of sensational music, supercars, and entertainment will have Derry rocking as Mayor Lilian Seenoi Barr marks the end of her year in office with a massive fundraising extravaganza in aid of the Bud Club, a life-changing organisation for young people with additional needs.

    The ‘One Big Weekend, One Big Cause – Revved Up and Ready to Rock for Bud Club’ extravaganza which will take place on the Bank Holiday weekend of May 24th and 25th features three incredible events designed to appeal to all ages and interests.

    Car enthusiasts across the city and district are in for a treat as the Mayor’s popular Supercar Saturday roars into Guildhall Square and Harbour Square on Saturday 24th May from 12-5pm. Local car enthusiasts Gary and Stephen McCaul will showcase approximately 35 luxury vehicles including Lamborghini, Ferrari, Porsche, McLaren and Maserati for public viewing.

    Popular local entertainer Micky Doherty will lead this family-friendly event which offers children and big kids the chance to get up close with one of Ireland’s finest collections of supercars. Adding to the festive atmosphere, DJ Lui and DJ Richie Rich will keep the music flowing throughout the day. A mobile gaming truck will provide additional entertainment for younger attendees, while local food vendors will be on site serving delicious refreshments.

    As the sun sets that evening the iconic Guildhall will host a star-studded night of music and comedy featuring outstanding performers from various genres. The night will begin with local favourite Ritchie Remo, the talented musician has a wide repertoire of tunes and is guaranteed to have the crowd on their feet. Next up funnyman Black Paddy will bring his own unique blend of comedy to the event – expect a high-octane performance and laughs aplenty.

    Bringing this incredible evening to an end will be The Mindbenders with The Ultimate Yacht Rock Show. Featuring some of the greatest artists to come out of the 70s and 80s it’s time to immerse yourself in tunes from The Doobie Brothers, Steely Dan, Boz Scaggs, Hall and Oates, Toto, Christopher Cross and many more. When the curtain comes down on this epic Saturday you will certainly leave the Guildhall with a smile on your face and a tune in your heart.

    The weekend concludes with the ultimate club night at St Columb’s Hall featuring the best in Afrobeat, house, and dance music. Afrobeat, with its roots in West Africa, blends traditional rhythms with jazz, funk, R&B and electronic beats, creating infectious grooves and high-energy vibes. This celebration of culture, rhythm, and unity will bring together music lovers from all backgrounds for a night of non-stop dancing.

    “I am absolutely thrilled to invite everyone to join us for what promises to be an unforgettable weekend,” said Mayor Lilian Seenoi Barr. “These events represent everything I’ve tried to champion during my time in office – bringing our community together through shared experiences while supporting those who need it most. Bud Club does extraordinary work supporting young people with additional needs, and I can’t think of a better way to cap off my term than by raising funds for this incredible organisation. My thanks are extended to the Garvan O’Doherty Group for sponsorship of the Afrobeats evening. Your support allows even more funds to go towards supporting Bud Club and is very much appreciated.

    “From luxury cars to live music and dancing, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So make sure you have ‘One Big Weekend, One Big Cause – Revved Up and Ready to Rock for Bud Club’ in your calendar, bring your family and friends, and let’s make this a weekend to remember while supporting a cause that makes a real difference in young people’s lives!”

    All proceeds from the weekend’s events will directly benefit the Bud Club charity.

    For more information and to purchase tickets to the Guildhall concert and Afrobeats night go to www.derrystrabane.com/OneWeekend. You can also keep up to date with everything that is happening on What’s On Derry Strabane and Council’s social channels.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    April 15, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: Virginia529 Education Savings Program Rebrands to Invest529 with Tuition Giveaway to Celebrate

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Richmond, Va., April 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Virginia families now have a new way to think about saving for college—and a chance to win big while they do it. The trusted Virginia529 education savings program is now called Invest529, and to mark the moment, individuals and families can enter to win four years of college tuition during a special giveaway, open now through April 30.

    Participants simply watch a short video at Invest529.com and complete an entry form for the chance to win four years of tuition valued at $62,000, based on the average in-state tuition at Virginia colleges and universities.

    While Invest529 has long been the official name of the organization’s education savings program, many Virginians knew it by Virginia529—the former name of the independent state agency that administers the highly rated program. This refreshed name helps clarify the distinction between the education savings program and the organization behind it, which has now rebranded as Commonwealth Savers.

    “As we introduce Invest529 more broadly and celebrate our expanded offerings, our commitment remains what it has been for 30 years: helping individuals and families take control of their financial futures,” said Mary Morris, CEO of Commonwealth Savers. “Our new agency name better reflects the full range of programs we offer today, including for education, disability and retirement savings.”

    Commonwealth Savers now manages three, tax-advantaged savings programs:

    • Invest529, the organization’s flagship education savings program
    • ABLEnow, one of the nation’s largest programs for individuals with disabilities
    • RetirePath Virginia, a retirement savings program for Virginians

    To read the terms and conditions and enter the giveaway for a chance to win four years of college tuition, visit Invest529.com.

    About Invest529

    Invest529, which is administered by Commonwealth Savers Plan, makes education more accessible and affordable for families and individuals. With more than $110.3 billion in assets under management and 3.1 million accounts as of March 31, 2025, Invest529 is part of the largest education savings plan available. Two flexible, affordable, tax-advantaged programs–Invest529SM and CollegeAmerica®–and early commitment scholarship program SOAR Virginia® –assist students of any age in reaching their higher education goals. For more information on Invest529’s education savings options, visit Invest529.com or call 1-888-567-0540 to obtain program materials. These include information on Invest529 savings options, investment objectives, risks, charges, expenses and other important information; read and consider them carefully before investing. All investments are subject to risk, including the possible loss of the money you invest.  Invest529 encourages prospective participants to seek the advice of a professional concerning any financial, tax or legal implications related to opening an account. For residents of states other than Virginia: before investing, you should consider whether your or the beneficiary’s home state offers any state tax or other state benefits such as financial aid, scholarship funds, and protections from creditors that are only available for investments in that state’s qualified tuition program. ©2025 Commonwealth Savers Plan. All Rights Reserved.

    About Commonwealth Savers

    Commonwealth Savers, formerly Virginia529, is a financial organization that helps individuals and families achieve financial wellness through a variety of tax-advantaged savings programs. With over $100+ billion in assets under management and 3+ million accounts, Commonwealth Savers is the nationwide leader in 529 education savings programs. The organization manages Invest529, a flexible, affordable education savings program, and CollegeAmerica®, the largest advisor-sold 529 plan in the nation. Through SOAR Virginia®, an early commitment scholarship program, Virginia students are supported in reaching their higher education goals. Commonwealth Savers also administers ABLEnow, a national savings program for individuals with disabilities, and ABLEAmerica, an advisor-sold disability savings option. Its newest program offering, RetirePath Virginia, helps workers across the Commonwealth save for retirement. For more information on Commonwealth Savers’ savings options, visit Commonwealthsavers.com or call 1-855-4SAVEVA (728382). All investments are subject to risk, and prospective participants are encouraged to consult with financial professionals. For non-Virginia residents, consider whether your home state offers benefits specific to its own savings programs. ©2025 Commonwealth Savers Plan. All Rights Reserved.

    Attachment

    • Saving for College Just Got a Little Easier

    The MIL Network –

    April 15, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Global: Africa’s healthcare funding crisis: 3 strategies to manage deadly diseases

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Francisca Mutapi, Professor in Global Health Infection and Immunity. and co-Director of the Global Health Academy, University of Edinburgh

    The increasing trend of reducing foreign aid to Africa is forcing the continent to reassess its approach to healthcare delivery.

    African countries face a major challenge of dealing with high rates of communicable diseases, such as malaria and HIV/Aids, and rising levels of non-communicable diseases. But the continent’s health systems don’t have the resources to provide accessible and affordable healthcare to address these challenges.

    Historically, aid has played a critical role in supporting African health systems. It has funded key areas, including medical research, treatment programmes, healthcare infrastructure and workforce salaries. In 2021, half of sub-Saharan Africa’s countries relied on external financing for more than one-third of their health expenditures.

    As aid dwindles, a stark reality emerges: many African governments are unable to achieve universal health coverage or address rising healthcare costs.

    The reduction in aid restricts healthcare services and threatens to reverse decades of health progress on the continent. A fundamental shift in healthcare strategy is necessary to address this crisis.

    The well-known maxim that “prevention is better than cure” holds not just for health outcomes but also for economic efficiency. It’s much more affordable to prevent diseases than it is to treat them.

    As an infectious diseases specialist, I have seen how preventable diseases can put a financial burden on health systems and households.

    For instance, each year, there are global economic losses of over US$33 billion due to neglected tropical diseases. Many conditions, such as lymphatic filariasis, often require lifelong care. This places a heavy burden on families and stretches national healthcare systems to their limits.

    African nations can cut healthcare costs through disease prevention. This often requires fewer specialist health workers and less expensive interventions.

    To navigate financial constraints, African nations must rethink and redesign their healthcare systems.

    Three key areas where cost-effective, preventive strategies can work are: improving water, sanitation, and hygiene; expanding vaccination programmes; and making non-communicable disease prevention part of community health services.

    A shift in healthcare delivery

    Improving water, sanitation, and hygiene infrastructure

    Many diseases prevalent in Africa are transmitted through contact with contaminated water and soil. Investing in safe water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) infrastructure is an opportunity. This alone can prevent a host of illnesses such as parasitic worms and diarrhoeal diseases. It can also improve infection control and strengthen epidemic and pandemic disease control.

    Currently, WASH coverage in Africa remains inadequate. Millions are vulnerable to preventable illnesses. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), in 2020 alone, about 510,000 deaths in Africa could have been prevented with improved water and sanitation. Of these, 377,000 deaths were caused by diarrhoeal diseases.

    Unsafe WASH conditions also contribute to secondary health issues, such as under-nutrition and parasitic infections. Around 14% of acute respiratory infections and 10% of the undernutrition disease burden – such as stunting – are linked to unsafe WASH conditions.

    By investing in functional WASH infrastructure, African governments can significantly reduce the incidence of these diseases. This will lead to lower healthcare costs and improved public health outcomes.

    Local production of relevant vaccines

    Vaccination is one of the most cost-effective health interventions available for preventing infection. Immunisation efforts save over four million lives every year across the continent.

    There is an urgent need for vaccines against diseases prevalent in Africa whose current control is heavily reliant on aid. Neglected tropical diseases are among them.

    Vaccines can also prevent some non-communicable diseases. A prime example is the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, which can prevent up to 85% of cervical cancer cases in Africa.

    HPV vaccination is also more cost-effective than treating cervical cancer. In some African countries, the cost per vaccine dose averages just under US$20. Treatment costs can reach up to US$2,500 per patient, as seen in Tanzania.

    It is vital to invest in a comprehensive vaccine ecosystem. This includes strengthening local research and building innovation hubs. Regulatory bodies across the continent must also be harmonised and markets created to attract vaccine investment.

    Integrating disease prevention into community healthcare services

    Historically, African healthcare systems were designed to address communicable diseases, such as tuberculosis and HIV. This left them ill-equipped to handle the rising burden of non-communicable diseases, such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. One cost-effective approach is to integrate the prevention and management of these diseases into existing community health programmes.

    Community health workers currently provide low-cost interventions for health issues such as pneumonia and malaria. They can be trained to address non-communicable diseases as well.

    In some countries, community health workers are already filling the service gap. Getting them more involved in prevention strategies will strengthen primary healthcare services in Africa. This investment will ultimately reduce the long-term financial burden of treating chronic diseases.

    A treatment-over-prevention approach will not be affordable

    Current estimates suggest that by 2030, an additional US$371 billion per year – roughly US$58 per person – will be required to provide basic primary healthcare services across Africa.

    Adding to the challenge is the rising global cost of healthcare, projected to increase by 10.4% this year alone. This marks the third consecutive year of escalating costs. For Africa, costs also come from population growth and the rising burden of non-communicable diseases.

    By shifting focus from treatment to prevention, African nations can make healthcare accessible, equitable and financially sustainable despite the decline in foreign aid.

    Francisca Mutapi is affiliated with Uniting to Combat NTDs

    – ref. Africa’s healthcare funding crisis: 3 strategies to manage deadly diseases – https://theconversation.com/africas-healthcare-funding-crisis-3-strategies-to-manage-deadly-diseases-253644

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    April 15, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Africa’s healthcare funding crisis: 3 strategies to manage deadly diseases

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Francisca Mutapi, Professor in Global Health Infection and Immunity. and co-Director of the Global Health Academy, University of Edinburgh

    The increasing trend of reducing foreign aid to Africa is forcing the continent to reassess its approach to healthcare delivery.

    African countries face a major challenge of dealing with high rates of communicable diseases, such as malaria and HIV/Aids, and rising levels of non-communicable diseases. But the continent’s health systems don’t have the resources to provide accessible and affordable healthcare to address these challenges.

    Historically, aid has played a critical role in supporting African health systems. It has funded key areas, including medical research, treatment programmes, healthcare infrastructure and workforce salaries. In 2021, half of sub-Saharan Africa’s countries relied on external financing for more than one-third of their health expenditures.

    As aid dwindles, a stark reality emerges: many African governments are unable to achieve universal health coverage or address rising healthcare costs.

    The reduction in aid restricts healthcare services and threatens to reverse decades of health progress on the continent. A fundamental shift in healthcare strategy is necessary to address this crisis.

    The well-known maxim that “prevention is better than cure” holds not just for health outcomes but also for economic efficiency. It’s much more affordable to prevent diseases than it is to treat them.

    As an infectious diseases specialist, I have seen how preventable diseases can put a financial burden on health systems and households.

    For instance, each year, there are global economic losses of over US$33 billion due to neglected tropical diseases. Many conditions, such as lymphatic filariasis, often require lifelong care. This places a heavy burden on families and stretches national healthcare systems to their limits.

    African nations can cut healthcare costs through disease prevention. This often requires fewer specialist health workers and less expensive interventions.

    To navigate financial constraints, African nations must rethink and redesign their healthcare systems.

    Three key areas where cost-effective, preventive strategies can work are: improving water, sanitation, and hygiene; expanding vaccination programmes; and making non-communicable disease prevention part of community health services.

    A shift in healthcare delivery

    Improving water, sanitation, and hygiene infrastructure

    Many diseases prevalent in Africa are transmitted through contact with contaminated water and soil. Investing in safe water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) infrastructure is an opportunity. This alone can prevent a host of illnesses such as parasitic worms and diarrhoeal diseases. It can also improve infection control and strengthen epidemic and pandemic disease control.

    Currently, WASH coverage in Africa remains inadequate. Millions are vulnerable to preventable illnesses. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), in 2020 alone, about 510,000 deaths in Africa could have been prevented with improved water and sanitation. Of these, 377,000 deaths were caused by diarrhoeal diseases.

    Unsafe WASH conditions also contribute to secondary health issues, such as under-nutrition and parasitic infections. Around 14% of acute respiratory infections and 10% of the undernutrition disease burden – such as stunting – are linked to unsafe WASH conditions.

    By investing in functional WASH infrastructure, African governments can significantly reduce the incidence of these diseases. This will lead to lower healthcare costs and improved public health outcomes.

    Local production of relevant vaccines

    Vaccination is one of the most cost-effective health interventions available for preventing infection. Immunisation efforts save over four million lives every year across the continent.

    There is an urgent need for vaccines against diseases prevalent in Africa whose current control is heavily reliant on aid. Neglected tropical diseases are among them.

    Vaccines can also prevent some non-communicable diseases. A prime example is the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, which can prevent up to 85% of cervical cancer cases in Africa.

    HPV vaccination is also more cost-effective than treating cervical cancer. In some African countries, the cost per vaccine dose averages just under US$20. Treatment costs can reach up to US$2,500 per patient, as seen in Tanzania.

    It is vital to invest in a comprehensive vaccine ecosystem. This includes strengthening local research and building innovation hubs. Regulatory bodies across the continent must also be harmonised and markets created to attract vaccine investment.

    Integrating disease prevention into community healthcare services

    Historically, African healthcare systems were designed to address communicable diseases, such as tuberculosis and HIV. This left them ill-equipped to handle the rising burden of non-communicable diseases, such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. One cost-effective approach is to integrate the prevention and management of these diseases into existing community health programmes.

    Community health workers currently provide low-cost interventions for health issues such as pneumonia and malaria. They can be trained to address non-communicable diseases as well.

    In some countries, community health workers are already filling the service gap. Getting them more involved in prevention strategies will strengthen primary healthcare services in Africa. This investment will ultimately reduce the long-term financial burden of treating chronic diseases.

    A treatment-over-prevention approach will not be affordable

    Current estimates suggest that by 2030, an additional US$371 billion per year – roughly US$58 per person – will be required to provide basic primary healthcare services across Africa.

    Adding to the challenge is the rising global cost of healthcare, projected to increase by 10.4% this year alone. This marks the third consecutive year of escalating costs. For Africa, costs also come from population growth and the rising burden of non-communicable diseases.

    By shifting focus from treatment to prevention, African nations can make healthcare accessible, equitable and financially sustainable despite the decline in foreign aid.

    – Africa’s healthcare funding crisis: 3 strategies to manage deadly diseases
    – https://theconversation.com/africas-healthcare-funding-crisis-3-strategies-to-manage-deadly-diseases-253644

    MIL OSI Africa –

    April 15, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ricketts Leads Bicameral Letter to USDA, HHS, EPA: MAHA Commission Stance on Crop Protection Tools Would Hurt America’s Food System

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Pete Ricketts (Nebraska)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Pete Ricketts (R-NE) and Deb Fischer (R-NE), with Congressmen Randy Feenstra (R-IA-04) and Mark Alford (R-MO-04), led a bicameral group of colleagues in sending a letter to Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins, Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, and Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Lee Zeldin. In the letter, the members call for the use of sound science and risk-based analysis as the MAHA Commission finalizes its work, particularly on crop protection tools and food-grade ingredients. The letter states:

    “We write to express our strong appreciation for your leadership and interest in working with each of you to ensure America has the healthiest people in the world. In recent decades, chronic illness rates have risen. This warrants our careful scrutiny to support better health outcomes. It is essential that policies supported by sound science and risk-based analyses are used to accomplish this goal.”

    “We have concerns that environmentalists are advancing harmful health, economic, or food security policies under the guise of human health,” the letter continues. “Despite insinuations to the contrary, regular testing by FDA and USDA finds that more than 99% of all pesticide residues meet extremely conservative limits established by EPA according to the best available science.”

    In addition to Ricketts and Fischer, other signatories include Senators Steve Daines (R-MT), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Joni Ernst (R-IA), Jim Justice (R-WV), Jim Risch (R-ID), Todd Young (R-IN), Roger Wicker (R-MS), and Mike Rounds (R-SD).

    The letter was also signed by members of the U.S. House of Representatives, including Mike Flood (R-NE-01), Don Bacon (R-NE-02), Adrian Smith (R-NE-03), Michael Baumgartner (R-WA-05), Jack Bergman (R-MI-01), Mike Bost (R-IL-12), James Comer (R-KY-01), Troy Downing (R-MT-02), Jake Ellzey (R-TX-06), Gabe Evans (R-CO-08), Mike Ezell (R-MS-04), Randy Feenstra (R-IA-04), Mark Alford (R-MO-04), Vince Fong (R-CA-20), Michael Guest (R-MS-03), Dusty Johnson (R-SD-AL), David Kustoff (R-TN-08), Darin LaHood (R-IL-16), Doug LaMalfa (R-CA-01), Frank Lucas (R-OK-03), Tracy Mann (R-KS-01), Mark Messmer (R-IN-08), Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-IA-01), Dan Newhouse (R-WA-04), Mike Rogers (R-AL-03), Derek Schmidt (R-KS-02), Austin Scott (R-GA-08), Jefferson Shreve (R-IN-06), Claudia Tenney (R-NY-24), David Valadao (R-CA-22), and Ann Wagner (R-MO-02).

    Read the full letter here or below:

    Dear Secretary Kennedy, Secretary Rollins, and Administrator Zeldin:

    We write to express our strong appreciation for your leadership and interest in working with each of you to ensure America has the healthiest people in the world. In recent decades, chronic illness rates have risen. This warrants our careful scrutiny and to support better health outcomes. It is essential that policies supported by sound science and risk-based analyses are used to accomplish this goal.

    We also urge you to safeguard the work of the Make America Healthy Again Commission (Commission) from activist groups promoting misguided and sometimes even malicious policies masquerading as health solutions. The influence of these groups in the Commission would result in shoddy science; a less abundant, less affordable food supply; greater reliance on foreign adversaries for our food; diminished U.S. agricultural production and manufacturing; and, ultimately, poorer health outcomes.

    President Trump recently stated environmental activists were holding the economic prosperity of our country hostage. We now have concerns that they are seeking to influence the work of the Commission to advance their agenda. For decades activist groups have tried to ban safe, well-regulated agricultural inputs by any means necessary. Without these products, yields and quality are negatively impacted by otherwise avoidable insects, fungus, weeds, and other pest pressures. This drives up food prices for American consumers and forces reliance of food imports.

    The same groups have seized upon the Commission’s work as an opportunity to misrepresent the science on common food and feed categories or ingredients, such as plant-based oils. These inputs are subject to a robust, risk-based regulatory system which focuses on protecting human health. Unfounded accusations harm the U.S. farmers who grow our food, upend food and feed supply chains, and significantly increase grocery food prices – all without public health benefit.

    We have concerns that environmentalists are advancing harmful health, economic, or food security policies under the guise of human health. Despite insinuations to the contrary, regular testing by FDA and USDA finds that more than 99% of all pesticide residues meet extremely conservative limits established by EPA according to the best available science.

    We applaud the Commission’s desire to improve the health and well-being of Americans. We implore you to ensure policy decisions are grounded in sound science and risk-based analyses. With unity, we can protect American agricultural producers from environmental activists’ attacks on proven-safe inputs critical to their profitability and long-term viability while promoting positive health outcomes.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 15, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: COVID-19: Salford 75s and over urged to top up your protection this spring!

    Source: City of Salford

    • National Booking System opens for COVID-19 vaccinations spring/summer 2025
    • NHS offers COVID-19 vaccines to people who are at increased risk of serious illness from the virus – including those aged 75 and over (by 17 June 2025)
    • Residents of care homes for older adults, and those with a weakened immune system urged to top up protection
    • The vaccine has saved countless lives, prevented thousands from needing to go to hospital and helped us to live with the virus without fear or restrictions.

    Top up your protection against COVID-19 by getting vaccinated this spring if you are eligible. Those at increased risk from severe illness can get the vaccine, including those aged 75 or over (on 17 June 2025), people with a weakened immune system or who live in an older adult care home. Those eligible will be able book from 25 March, for appointments from 1 April.

    If eligible, you do not need to wait for an invitation to book your vaccine. To book, please visit the NHS App, the NHS website or call 119 for free. You may also be able to visit a walk-in site which does not require a booking.

    Don’t get caught out. If you or your child are eligible, make sure you get any extra protection you need this spring. Get vaccinated against COVID-19.

    Councillor John Merry, Lead Member for Social Care and Mental Health at Salford City Council said:

    “Long COVID-19 can still be very dangerous and even life threatening, particularly for older people and those with a weakened immune system. The COVID-19 vaccines provide good protection against severe disease, hospitalisation and can protect those most vulnerable from death.

    “The vaccine has saved countless lives in Salford, prevented thousands from needing to go to hospital and helped us to live with the virus without fear or restrictions. The NHS will be sending out invitations, but you do not need to be invited to book your COVID-19 spring vaccine so please do take up the offer when you receive it.”

    How to get the COVID-19 vaccine

    There are several ways you can get you COVID jab.

    If you’re eligible for the spring COVID-19 vaccine, you can:

    You do not need to wait for an invitation before booking an appointment.

    You can also get vaccinated at:

    • a walk-in COVID-19 vaccination site – no appointment is needed
    • a local service, such as a community pharmacy or your GP surgery
    • your care home (if you live in a care home)

    You can call the Greater Manchester Care Gateway Team on 0161 947 0770 or 0800 092 4020 if you need help to find a walk-in site.

    Share this

    Date published
    Monday 14 April 2025

    Press and media enquiries

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    April 15, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Programme for Government will be major test of SNP’s climate commitment

    Source: Scottish Greens

    14 Apr 2025 Climate

    Programme for Government must have climate at its heart.

    More in Climate

    Responding to the announcement that the SNP’s next Programme for Government will be presented in May, the Scottish Greens have called for plans for serious and sustained climate action.

    It is less than two weeks since Ministers watered down the Heat in Buildings Bill, undermining any chance that Scotland has of hitting climate targets.

    Scottish Green Co-Leader Lorna Slater said:

    “The First Minister has promised a year of delivery, and our climate has to be at the heart of it.

    “With bills soaring and stretching households and families to their limits, it is vital that we move away from fossil fuels and support people in making green choices.

    “That means acting to cut the eye watering prices that people are being forced to pay for public transport, and providing far more support for green energy and insulating homes.

    “Yet, at a time when our climate needs us, the SNP has watered down its Heat in Buildings plan, a move that will only tie more people to costly and damaging fossil fuels.

    “The next Programme for Government must show more ambition if it is really to be a year of delivery.

    “We have a lot of skilled engineers and workers in our country, and they can be at the heart of a green transition if there is a political will for it.

    “The wildfires we have seen over recent days and weeks underline how important it is that we take serious and sustained climate action. Anything less will see our communities paying the price.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    April 15, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: International Summit on the Future of Energy Security Partners

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    International Summit on the Future of Energy Security Partners

    Government welcomes Official Partners of International Summit on the Future of Energy Security.

    • The Official Partners sponsoring the International Energy Agency and UK Government’s energy security summit are Iberdrola/ScottishPower, National Grid, SSE and Urenco 

    • Ministers and industry leaders from around the world will gather in London in April to discuss the future of energy security 

    • Summit will be hosted by Energy Secretary Ed Miliband and International Energy Agency Executive Director Dr Fatih Birol

    The government has today (Monday 14 April) announced the four Official Partners sponsoring the upcoming summit marking a new era for energy security.  

    Energy ministers and key energy sector decision makers from around the world will convene at the UK Government and International Energy Agency’s Summit on the Future of Energy Security, co-hosted by the Energy Secretary Ed Miliband and IEA Executive Director Dr Fatih Birol, at Lancaster House, London, on 24-25 April.   

     Sponsorship from Iberdrola/ScottishPower, National Grid, SSE and Urenco will help deliver the summit at a lower cost to UK taxpayers and demonstrates their ongoing commitment to delivering clean energy and energy security in the UK and around the world.   

    In recent years, energy security has risen up the global agenda as countries act to respond to today’s challenges and protect themselves from future energy shocks. The summit is an opportunity to cooperate on rising to the challenges the world faces on energy security and seizing the opportunities to act. It comes as the UK sets a global example by accelerating to a new era of clean electricity by 2030.  

    The Official Partners  

    Iberdrola/ScottishPower   

    Iberdrola is the largest utility in Europe, with a market capitalization of £85 billion, and serves 100 million people worldwide thanks to a diversified portfolio of businesses across the electricity value chain in the UK, the US, Spain, France, Germany, Brazil and Australia. In the UK, Iberdrola is investing £24 billion up to 2028 through ScottishPower, mainly in transmission and distribution networks and offshore wind. Overall, the Group is dedicating around 70% of its investments to power networks to accelerate electrification as a way to increase energy security and competitiveness, create new industries and jobs, and improve sustainability. Around two thirds of Iberdrola’s global investments are allocated to the UK and to the US   

    Iberdrola Executive Chairman Ignacio Galán said:  

    Energy security is the first step towards overall security. Digitalization, big data, AI and the industries of the future rely on a secure power supply, driving demand growth not seen for decades, and network infrastructures are the backbone of a resilient power system.  Driven by the UK Government’s clear and stable energy policies, Iberdrola is investing £24 billion to 2028 in the UK in transmission, distribution and offshore wind to guarantee energy security, growth and competitiveness. We welcome the IEA and UK Government bringing together key policy makers and energy companies to analyse how best to enhance energy security globally.

    National Grid  

    National Grid is investing £60 billion in energy networks over the next five years in the UK and the northeastern United States. This represents nearly double the investment of the previous five years. Its commitment will unlock significant economic growth, create thousands of new jobs, reduce energy bills in the long term, increase energy security, and support an increasingly decarbonised, electrified economy.  

    National Grid Chief Executive Officer John Pettigrew said:   

    National Grid is investing £60 billion in energy networks to 2029, boosting energy security, driving economic growth, and supporting 60,000 more jobs across the UK and US. Innovation and investment will be essential to unlocking the benefits of the energy transformation for customers and communities; it is essential that events like this exist to enable the sector to collaborate and drive progress forwards.

    SSE  

    SSE is a UK-listed and headquartered company investing £20 billion over five years to 2027 in renewable energy, electricity networks, and flexible power generation. Harnessing some of Europe’s best renewable resources with projects like Dogger Bank – the world’s largest offshore wind farm – SSE generates homegrown clean energy, protecting billpayers from overdependence on imported fossil fuels. It also builds and operate vital transmission and distribution grids to connect and transport more secure power to homes and businesses. At the same time, through its fleet of flexible generation and storage assets across hydro, batteries and efficient gas-fired power stations, it provides the balance required to ensure an increasingly renewable energy system is not only cleaner but more secure.  

    SSE Chief Executive Officer Alistair Phillips-Davies said:   

    It has never been clearer that energy security equates to national security – and achieving it requires countries to focus both on developing their own homegrown energy sources and on international cooperation to ensure increased flexibility and resilience. This principle is at the heart of the UK Government’s Clean Power Mission, and we are proud to be playing our part in delivering mission-critical investments across renewables, networks, and system flexibility. But there is more we can and must do, and we are therefore thrilled to be partnering with the UK Government and the IEA to advance this crucial agenda.

    Urenco  

    Urenco is a global uranium enrichment company, fuelling nuclear power plants to ensure a secure, reliable, and low carbon supply of energy. With four facilities in different countries within the Western world, it is providing customers with choice of where to receive their supply from and are rapidly ramping up capacity to meet increased demand.  

    Urenco Chief Executive Officer Boris Schucht said:  

    There are now well-established drivers for an enhanced role of nuclear power: the need to meet climate change goals; and the need for countries to have a secure and independent energy supply. As a long-standing and integral part of the global nuclear industry, Urenco sees it as our responsibility to make a valuable contribution to meeting world-wide energy needs, complementing other low carbon sources through a 24/7 supply which is cost effective over the lifetime of a reactor. We will continue to collaborate with partners across the energy sector and beyond to help ensure the reliable, clean energy system our world needs are achieved.

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    Published 14 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    April 15, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Marion County Man Sentenced to More Than 11 Years for Transporting a Minor with the Intent to Engage in Sexual Activity

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime News

    Ocala, Florida – United States District Judge Thomas P. Barber has sentenced Thomas Allen Ebersole (32, Dunnellon) to 11 years and 3 months in federal prison for transporting a minor with the intent to engage in sexual activity. Ebersole is also required to register as a sex offender. He entered a guilty plea on January 6, 2025.  

    According to court records, in December 2023, Ebersole met and communicated with a 16-year-old girl through online video games. On December 28, 2023, Ebersole drove from his home in Marion County to Ohio, where the minor lived. He then drove the victim back to his Florida home to engage in sexual activity with her. After the victim’s family reported her missing, law enforcement identified the Internet Protocol (IP) address the victim had used to play video games while at Ebersole’s home. Law enforcement located and removed the victim from Ebersole’s home on January 3, 2024. The victim told law enforcement that she never left Ebersole’s home during the week she had been missing. She also admitted that Ebersole had engaged in sexual intercourse with her multiple times, which was subsequently confirmed through DNA testing.

    This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, and the Lima (Ohio) Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Hannah Nowalk Watson.

    This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

    MIL Security OSI –

    April 15, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: The Victory Bank Announces Opening of New Branch in Horsham, Offering Personalized Service and Local Banking Solutions

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HORSHAM, Pa., April 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The Victory Bank, a bank that puts customers first with its focus on personalized service and unwavering commitment, is pleased to announce the opening of its new branch located at 100 Gibraltar Road, Horsham, PA. The new branch is now open and ready to serve the community, offering a full range of banking services tailored to the needs of local residents and businesses.

    “We’re thrilled to open our new branch in Horsham and expand our services to even more people and businesses in the community,” said Joseph Major, CEO and Bank Leader of The Victory Bank. “At The Victory Bank, we believe banking should be simple and personal. That’s why we’re proud to offer real solutions and real people – no voicemail, no automated systems, just friendly, knowledgeable representatives ready to help.”

    The new Horsham branch will provide a wide range of banking services, including checking and savings accounts, home equity loans, and tailored commercial loans to support local entrepreneurs and established businesses. Whether you’re opening your first account, seeking a loan, or in need of tailored financial advice, The Victory Bank is committed to offering expert advice and exceptional support for peace of mind banking with every step of your financial journey.

    To celebrate this exciting milestone, The Victory Bank will host a week-long Grand Opening event from June 2 through June 6, 2025, at the new Horsham branch. The celebration will feature a variety of activities, including a Financial Literacy course, a Business Seminar, and a special children’s day. Visitors can take advantage of exclusive promotions on new accounts, exciting giveaways, and the opportunity to enter a sweepstakes for an exciting Grand Prize. Guests will also have the chance to meet our dedicated team, experience our personalized approach to banking, and explore the services designed to support their financial goals. Full event details will be available on their website in the coming weeks.

    “We’re excited to be a part of the Horsham community and look forward to building lasting relationships with our customers,” said Elizabeth Knott, Branch Manager. “Whether you’re an individual or a business, we’re here to listen, and provide real solutions.”

    For more information about The Victory Bank visit VictoryBank.com or call 610-948-9000.

    About The Victory Bank

    Founded in 2008, The Victory Bank is a Pennsylvania state-chartered commercial bank headquartered in Limerick Township, Montgomery County. It offers a full range of banking services, including checking and savings accounts, home equity lines of credit, and personal loans. In addition to traditional banking, the Bank specializes in high-quality business lending, serving small and mid-sized businesses and professionals. With four offices across Montgomery and Berks Counties, it is dedicated to meeting the financial needs of the local community. For more information, visit its website at VictoryBank.com. FDIC-Insured.

    Contact:
    Joseph W. Major,
    Chairman and Chief Executive Officer

    The MIL Network –

    April 15, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: EXL named a Leader and a Star Performer in Everest Group’s 2025 Life and Annuities Insurance BPS and TPA PEAK Matrix® Assessment

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, April 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — EXL (NASDAQ: EXLS), a global data and AI company, announced it has been named a Leader and a Star Performer in Everest Group’s Life and Annuities (L&A) Insurance Business Process Services (BPS) and Third-Party Administrator (TPA) PEAK Matrix® Assessment 2025.

    This is the second consecutive year that EXL has earned this distinction. Everest Group cites EXL’s digital integration of analytics and AI solutions, robust engagement models, and in-house domain expertise as key to its market success.

    “EXL has demonstrated growth in the L&A Insurance BPS and TPA market, driven by its digital transformation-led strategy and flexible engagement models, including BPaaS and TPA constructs. This approach has reinforced EXL as a partner of choice for enterprises,” said Sahil Chaudhary, practice director, Everest Group. “EXL continues to invest in upskilling and talent development through in-house microlearning programs on emerging technologies and industry certifications. Collectively, these efforts have positioned it as a Leader and Star Performer in the Everest Group L&A Insurance BPS and TPA PEAK Matrix® Assessment 2025.”

    Each year, Everest Group presents detailed assessments of L&A insurance BPS and TPA providers. This year’s assessment includes 24 companies. Firms are evaluated based on their vision, capabilities, and market impact. Researchers determine an organization’s positioning based on Everest Group’s annual RFI process, interactions with leading L&A insurance BPS and TPA providers, client reference checks, and ongoing analysis of the industry market.

    “As the L&A insurance industry undergoes yet another transformation, insurers are grappling with ways to break away from legacy systems and improve operational efficiency,” said Vivek Jetley, president and head of insurance and healthcare and life sciences, EXL. “At EXL, we are proud to be accelerating the adoption of intelligent automation into our clients’ existing service offerings, including actuarial services, claims management, underwriting, and policy administration, to create more efficient, value-driven decisioning.”

    To read more about Everest Group’s L&A Insurance BPS and TPA PEAK Matrix® Assessment 2025, click here. For more information about EXL’s solutions for the insurance industry, click here.

    Disclaimer

    Licensed extracts taken from Everest Group’s PEAK Matrix® Reports, may be used by licensed third parties for use in their own marketing and promotional activities and collateral. Selected extracts from Everest Group’s PEAK Matrix® reports do not necessarily provide the full context of our research and analysis.  All research and analysis conducted by Everest Group’s analysts and included in Everest Group’s PEAK Matrix® reports is independent and no organization has paid a fee to be featured or to influence their ranking.  To access the complete research and to learn more about our methodology, please visit Everest Group PEAK Matrix® Reports. 

    About EXL

    EXL (NASDAQ: EXLS) is a global data and AI company that offers services and solutions to reinvent client business models, drive better outcomes and unlock growth with speed. EXL harnesses the power of data, AI, and deep industry knowledge to transform businesses, including the world’s leading corporations in industries including insurance, healthcare, banking and capital markets, retail, communications and media, and energy and infrastructure, among others. EXL was founded in 1999 with the core values of innovation, collaboration, excellence, integrity and respect. We are headquartered in New York and have approximately 59,000 employees spanning six continents. For more information, visit www.exlservice.com.

    About Everest Group 
    Everest Group is a leading global research firm helping business leaders make confident decisions. Everest Group’s PEAK Matrix® assessments provide the analysis and insights enterprises need to make critical selection decisions about global services providers, locations, and products and solutions within various market segments. Likewise, providers of these services, products, and solutions, look to the PEAK Matrix® to gauge and calibrate their offerings against others in the industry or market. Find further details and in-depth content at www.everestgrp.com. 

    Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. You should not place undue reliance on those statements because they are subject to numerous uncertainties and factors relating to EXL’s operations and business environment, all of which are difficult to predict and many of which are beyond EXL’s control. Forward-looking statements include information concerning EXL’s possible or assumed future results of operations, including descriptions of its business strategy. These statements may include words such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “plan,” “estimate” or similar expressions. These statements are based on assumptions that we have made in light of management’s experience in the industry as well as its perceptions of historical trends, current conditions, expected future developments and other factors it believes are appropriate under the circumstances. You should understand that these statements are not guarantees of performance or results. They involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and assumptions. Although EXL believes that these forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, you should be aware that many factors could affect EXL’s actual financial results or results of operations and could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. These factors, which include our ability to maintain and grow client demand, our ability to hire and retain sufficiently trained employees, and our ability to accurately estimate and/or manage costs, rising interest rates, rising inflation and recessionary economic trends, are discussed in more detail in EXL’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including EXL’s Annual Report on Form 10-K. You should keep in mind that any forward-looking statement made herein, or elsewhere, speaks only as of the date on which it is made. New risks and uncertainties come up from time to time, and it is impossible to predict these events or how they may affect EXL. EXL has no obligation to update any forward-looking statements after the date hereof, except as required by federal securities laws.

    Contacts
    Media
    Keith Little
    +1 703-598-0980
    media.relations@exlservice.com

    Investor Relations
    John Kristoff
    +1 212 209 4613
    IR@exlservice.com

    The MIL Network –

    April 15, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Call to monitor rented spaces 

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Police Minister Senzo Mchunu says municipalities must rise to the occasion and be aware of the activities taking place in the spaces they rent out.

    The Minister’s comments come as he visited various drug laboratories and a warehouse which were discovered and shut down by the Hawks in Mpumalanga.

    “The spaces where this operation was carried out (industrial and residential areas) are indicative that municipalities have to rise to the occasion and be aware of the activities which take place in relation to the spaces they rent out,” the Minister said following his visit to the sites on Sunday.

    READ | Police Minister to visit Mpumalanga drug labs following arrests 

    The visit follows an operation carried out by a team comprising of among others, the Hawks in Secunda, Standerton K9, and the Standerton Crime Intelligence on 4 April.

    “A search warrant was obtained and large quantities of liquid chemicals in drums, powder chemicals in sacks, machinery and equipment were found. It was confirmed that the building was used as a storage facility for illicit drug producing material,” the Minister said.

    Three Mozambican nationals found at the scene were arrested; a fourth suspect who is also a Mozambican national was also arrested. 

    “All these individuals are illegal immigrants. Three vehicles were seized. Further investigation led us to a farm, where a clandestine drug lab was discovered, and a Mozambican couple was arrested – parents to one of the suspects arrested prior. Again, these individuals do not have the requisite papers to be in South Africa,” he said.

    The combined value of items found was around R20 million.

    All six suspects appearance in the Standerton Magistrate court on Monday, 07 April 2025.
    Additionally, intelligence about two additional laboratories in the area were received. Search warrants were applied for and executed on 8 April 2025.

    “The Investigation team comprising of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI/Hawks) Secunda, SANEB [South African Narcotics Enforcement Bureau] head office, Standerton K9, Standerton Crime Intelligence, and private security visited a farm and discovered it was empty and then proceeded to a residential address. 

    “A tablet pressing machine, a disassembled machine worth over R2 million, petrol generator and 20 litre buckets full of finished powder products valued at over R28 million were found,” said the Minister.

    Two South African males were arrested while a third suspect, handed himself in. They appeared in the Standerton Magistrates Court on 10 April 2025.

    Several luxury vehicles were seized, including a Mercedes Benz and an amount of R3 689 200 was found in the boot of the Mercedes Benz. A white Isuzu van was found at another address and is in police custody.

    “All suspects have since appeared in the Standerton Magistrate’s Court; one suspect (South African) has been released but investigations are still underway. The eight suspects who are in custody will appear again for a formal bail hearing on the 25th of April 2025.

    This whole operation is an indication that we need to increase our law enforcement capacity in order to achieve such results and more. This is one aspect which we as the SAPS [South African Police Service] are focused on,” the Minister explained.

    He added that the police have prioritised tackling the drug trade and is looking at dismantling the entire value chain.

    “Since August 2024, the SAPS have uncovered several clandestine drug laboratories, leading to significant seizures of illicit substances and manufacturing equipment.”

    Among some of the drug busts made by police previously include the dismantling of a laboratory valued at R100 million was dismantled in Rietfontein, Tshwane, resulting in the arrest of a 39-year-old Mexican national in November last year.

    In December 2024, a drug bust valued at R4.5 million was executed, uncovering machines used for drug production, though no suspects were found at the scene in Kibler Park, Johannesburg.

    “The total estimated street value of the 800 kilograms of drugs that were destroyed on 7 March 2025 is in excess of R340 million. About a year ago, drugs worth R550 million were destroyed. In three years, various types of drugs worth R5.2 billion have been destroyed.

    “As the SAPS, we have a constitutional duty to ensure that all South Africans are and feel safe. Drugs have a negative impact on our communities. They have an impact on the crime levels, they destroy young lives and the health of those who consume them,” he said.-SAnews.gov.za 

    MIL OSI Africa –

    April 15, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Africa: President Ramaphosa appoints Mcebisi Jonas as Special Envoy to the United States

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    President Cyril Ramaphosa has appointed former Deputy Finance Minister, Mcebisi Jonas, as his Special Envoy to the United States.

    In his new role, Jonas will serve as the official representative of the President and the government of South Africa.

    “In this capacity, Mr Jonas is entrusted with the responsibility to advance South Africa’s diplomatic, trade and bilateral priorities. He will lead negotiations, foster strategic partnerships and engage with US government officials and private-sector leaders to promote our nation’s interests,” President Ramaphosa said in a statement on Monday. 

    The Head of State described Jonas as an eminent South African leader, who served as one of four Presidential Investment Envoys that he appointed in 2018 to facilitate investment into South Africa. 

    “As a former Deputy Finance Minister of South Africa, Mr Jonas brings extensive governmental experience to his new diplomatic role. Concurrently, he holds the position of Independent Non-Executive Chairman of the MTN Group, a role he will maintain alongside his responsibilities as my Special Envoy,” the President said. 

    In addition, the President believes that this appointment underscores his distinguished career and continued commitment to advancing South Africa’s national and economic interests.

    “For decades, South Africa and the United States of America have maintained a historical and strategic relationship. In the interest of our country, our region and the rest of our continent, I remain committed to rebuilding and maintaining this relationship for more decades based on mutual respect, recognition of each other’s sovereignty and benefit for our respective peoples,” he added. 

    Meanwhile, a delegation of senior officials, led by South Africa’s Group of 20 (G20) Sherpa and the Director-General of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO), Zane Dangor, recently met with United States officials to clarify the country’s expropriation and equity laws.

    During the visit, the delegation engaged with their counterparts in Washington, including senior officials at the White House and the State Department, to address key bilateral priorities. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

    April 15, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Jonas pledges to do his best to strengthen US-SA ties as Special Envoy

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Monday, April 14, 2025

    Former Deputy Finance Minister Mcebisi Jonas has pledged to do his utmost as President Cyril Ramaphosa’s Special Envoy to the United States (US) to promote a healthy working relationship between South Africa and the US.

    This follows the President’s announcement on Monday of Jonas’s appointment as his Special Envoy to the United States, where he will serve as the official representative of the President and the government of South Africa.

    “I would like to thank President Cyril Ramaphosa for entrusting me with this important but challenging role. I will do my best to promote a healthy working relationship between South Africa and the United States.

    “I will do my best to promote a healthy working relationship between South Africa and the United States,” he said in a statement issued by the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO). 

    The former Deputy Minister acknowledged the challenges ahead due to recent global developments.

    “I am fully cognisant of the difficulties that lie ahead, considering recent global developments. However, I believe that areas of commonality and mutual interest could be embraced to reaffirm the long-standing ties between our two countries.

    “There are no quick fixes in such a complex situation. I appeal that, in the national interest, South Africans exercise patience and allow us time and space to engage fully with different stakeholders in the United States and South Africa.” 

    Jonas indicated that any updates regarding his work would be communicated through the Presidency and DIRCO. 

    The President has described Jonas as an eminent South African leader who served as one of four Presidential Investment Envoys that he appointed in 2018 to facilitate investment into South Africa. 

    As a former Deputy Finance Minister of South Africa, the President said Jonas brings extensive governmental experience to his new diplomatic role. 

    Jonas currently holds the position of Independent Non-Executive Chairman of the MTN Group, a role he will maintain alongside his responsibilities as Special Envoy. – SAnews.gov.za 
     

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    MIL OSI Africa –

    April 15, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Bin Collections as normal over Easter holidays, along with many other Council Services

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    Bin Collections as normal over Easter holidays, along with many other Council Services

    14 April 2025

    Derry City and Strabane District Council has issued details of its service provision over the Easter break and advising the public that bin collection service will operate as normal over the holiday period.

    Bin collections will operate as normal on Good Friday, Easter Monday and Tuesday. The public are kindly encouraged to use the appropriate bins and recycle or reuse as much Easter packaging and wrapping paper as possible.

    Recycling Centres will be closed on Easter Sunday and Monday and will open as normal on Tuesday 22nd April.

    The Guildhall and The Tower Museum will be closed only on Easter Sunday, 20th April only and open to visitors as normal from Easter Monday.

    Council offices on Strand Road, Derry will be closed on Good Friday 18th, Easter Monday 21st and Tuesday 22nd of April, while the Derry Road offices in Strabane will be closed on Easter Monday 21st and Tuesday 22nd April.

    Registry Offices in Derry will be closed on Friday 18th, Monday 21st and Tuesday 22nd April, while offices in Strabane will be closed on Good Friday 18th and Easter Monday 21st April.

    All Council owned cemeteries are open and operational over the Easter period from 8am to 8pm daily.

    The Council will continue to offer an Out of Hours Service for ongoing dog attacks on persons or animals over the Easter break. If you need this service over the holidays, you can contact them via telephone on 07734 128096. Whilst there is no obligation on council to respond to other serious matters outside hours, the Dog Warden may do so after an assessment of any voicemail messages left.  

    All Council parks across the city and district, as well as the Greenways, will be open and available for the public to enjoy over the Easter holidays. People are reminded to treat the areas with respect and continue to use the bins provided, keeping the areas safe and clean for everyone to have an enjoyable experience.

    The Alley Theatre will be open as normal over the Easter Holidays with Easter crafts and storytelling workshops scheduled for young children.

    There will be some minor changes to Leisure Services with a small number of centres closing on separate days over the holiday period. The following arrangements are in place for the centres and sports facilities:

    • Foyle Arena – Open Good Friday, Easter Saturday and Tuesday. Closed Easter Sunday and Monday
    • Templemore Sports Complex – Open Good Friday, Easter Saturday and Tuesday. Closed Easter Sunday and Monday
    • Melvin Sports Complex – Open Good Friday, Easter Saturday and Sunday. Closed Easter Monday and Tuesday
    • Derg Valley Leisure Centre – Open Good Friday, Easter Saturday and Sunday. Closed Easter Monday and Tuesday
    • Riversdale Leisure Centre – Open Good Friday, Easter Saturday and Sunday. Closed Easter Monday and Tuesday
    • City Baths – Closed Good Friday, Easter Sunday, Monday and Tuesday. Open Easter Saturday
    • Brooke Park – Closed Good Friday, Easter Sunday, Monday and Tuesday. Open Easter Saturday
    • Bishop’s Field – Closed Good Friday, Easter Sunday, Monday and Tuesday. Open Easter Saturday
    • Waterside Shared Village – Closed Good Friday, Easter Sunday, Monday and Tuesday. Open Easter Saturday

    Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Cllr Lilian Seenoi-Barr, wished the public a healthy and happy Easter holiday, and urged everyone to familiarise themselves with the full opening hours listing on the Council’s website.

    “I would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone a safe and pleasant Easter break. I would also like to remind everyone to make use of their Blue and Brown bins at home when throwing away all the packaging and food waste that comes along with Easter Eggs and sweet treats. 

    “Easter is always a lovely time to get out and about and enjoy all we have to offer across our city and district. I would encourage everyone to make use of our beautiful parks and green spaces while we get to enjoy this beautiful Spring weather.”

    For all updates, please keep an eye on Council social media pages or visit www.derrystrabane.com/services/openinghours

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    April 15, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: Moody’s has upgraded Coop Pank’s covered bonds rating to Aa1

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Moody’s Investors Service has upgraded the rating of covered bonds issued by Coop Pank AS (Coop Pank) from Aa2 to Aa1.

    When upgrading the rating, the international rating agency Moody’s has analyzed Coop Pank’s covered bond issue, taking into account, among other things, the credit quality of the mortgage loans used as collateral, the issuer’s activities and the Estonian legal framework, as well as market risks and the economic environment.

    Read more: https://ratings.moodys.com/ratings-news/441062

    In March of this year, Coop Pank issued the first 250 million euros of 4-year covered bonds within the framework of the 750 million euro covered bond program. The covered bonds are listed on the Euronext Dublin stock exchange.

    According to Paavo Truu, CFO of Coop Pank, the rating upgrade is a recognition of both Coop Pank and the Estonian financial system and the legal framework regarding covered bonds as a whole.

    Coop Pank, based on Estonian capital, is one of the five universal banks operating in Estonia. The number of clients using Coop Pank for their daily banking reached 211,000. Coop Pank aims to put the synergy generated by the interaction of retail business and banking to good use and to bring everyday banking services closer to people’s homes. The strategic shareholder of the bank is the domestic retail chain Coop Eesti, comprising of 320 stores.

    Additional information:
    Paavo Truu
    CFO
    Phone: 5160 231
    E-mail: paavo.truu@cooppank.ee

    The MIL Network –

    April 15, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: MNP Consumer Debt Index Rebounds (+9 Pts) as Canadians Take Steps to Safeguard their Finances Amid Economic Uncertainty

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CALGARY, Alberta, April 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — As Canadians take steps to safeguard their finances amid ongoing economic uncertainty, the MNP Consumer Debt Index—conducted quarterly by Ipsos—has rebounded to 88 points this quarter, marking a nine-point increase from the previous quarter and signaling a more optimistic outlook on personal finances. Reflecting Canadians’ shift toward financial caution, three-quarters (74%) say they have cut back on spending due to uncertainty, with women (77%) and those aged 35-54 (81%) being the most likely to have reduced spending. Around the same proportion (73%) say they are delaying major purchases or investments.

    “The improvement we are seeing in Canadians’ feelings toward their personal finances follows two Bank of Canada interest rate cuts this year. And while uncertainty remains around U.S. tariffs, their on-again, off-again nature may be providing Canadians with some optimism for the future—especially since these tariffs have yet to make a full impact on household budgets,” explains Grant Bazian, president of MNP LTD, the country’s largest insolvency firm.

    Lower Interest Rates Offer Relief, but Many Remain Concerned

    The proportion of Canadians concerned about the impact of rising interest rates remains near the highest level on record (60%, +1pt). However, thanks in part to the interest rate reductions this year, overall concerns about the broader impact of interest rates have declined. Fewer Canadians this quarter are worried about their ability to repay debts, even if rates decrease (43%, -7pts). Nearly a quarter (24%, +4pts) now feel better equipped to absorb a one-percentage-point rate increase, while the percentage (21%, -6pts) who feel less prepared has decreased. More than half (52%, -5pts) continue to worry about falling into financial trouble if rates rise, and nearly two in five (38%, -8pts) fear that rising rates could push them toward bankruptcy.

    “Lower interest rates, along with the budget adjustments Canadians have already made, seem to be providing some breathing room,” says Bazian.

    A majority of Canadians (81%) say the current economic uncertainty has made them more cautious about taking on new debt – a sentiment that is consistent across genders, age groups, regions and income levels. A higher proportion this quarter believes they will be able to cover living expenses in the next year without needing more credit (58%, +9pts) and fewer regret the amount of debt they have taken on (43%, -6pts).

    “In comparison to the previous quarter, the results suggest that Canadians are taking proactive steps to reduce spending and lessen their reliance on credit as they brace for potential financial challenges on the horizon,” says Bazian.

    He points to the fact that Canadians’ net personal debt rating (positive minus negative) has rebounded 14 points from last quarter’s all-time low. Additionally, fewer Canadians (43%, -7pts) report being just $200 or less away from financial insolvency, unable to meet their bills and debt obligations each month. This is due to significantly fewer saying they are already insolvent (26%, -9pts).

    “Four in ten Canadians still report being on the brink of insolvency, and more than a quarter have no financial cushion, no flexibility, or wiggle room in their budgets. Individuals without a safety net will likely face economic hardship when faced with rising costs and housing expenses, or a potential loss of income,” says Bazian.

    Well over half (58%) of Canadians express heightened concern about their ability to pay off debt due to ongoing uncertainty. This concern extends to broader financial stability, with about two in five worried about the possibility of someone in their household losing their job (38%, -3pts).

    Canadians Bracing for Increased Housing Costs

    Two in five (44%) Canadians say they are bracing for an increase in housing costs within the next year. Renters have a higher expectation of rising costs than homeowners, with two in three (65%) expecting their housing costs to increase within the next year, and nearly one-third of homeowners (30%) agreeing their housing costs will rise. Lower income earners may be impacted the most, with half (52%) of those earning under $40,000 expecting an increase, compared to one-third (34%) of those earning $100,000 or more. Younger Canadians under the age of 55 are more likely to expect an increase compared to those 55 and older.

    “More than four million mortgages—roughly 60% of all outstanding mortgages in Canada—are set to renew by the end of 2026 at potentially higher rates. This is just one example of the rising expenses, compounded by ongoing economic uncertainty, that those teetering on the edge can’t afford,” says Bazian.

    Bazian says that there is help for those struggling to manage debt repayment, missing monthly payments or simply unable to make ends meet.

    “Licensed Insolvency Trustees provide unbiased advice to help Canadians make informed decisions to address both short-term pressures and long-term debt management, especially during times of financial instability,” says Bazian.

    Licensed Insolvency Trustees play a vital role in helping Canadians navigate financial challenges and make decisions about managing their debt. As the financial landscape remains unpredictable, seeking guidance from a Licensed Insolvency Trustee can provide individuals with a clear understanding of their debt-relief options, including debt consolidation, consumer proposals, and bankruptcy.

    MNP’s extensive network of Licensed Insolvency Trustees provides free consultations across more than 200 offices nationwide, offering Canadians personalized, local support to help them explore debt relief options.

    As a result of the uncertain economic environment, half (50%) of Canadians say they are relying more on financial advice and planning.

    About MNP LTD

    MNP LTD, a division of the national accounting firm MNP LLP, is the largest insolvency practice in Canada. For more than 50 years, our experienced team of Licensed Insolvency Trustees and advisors have been working with individuals to help them recover from times of financial distress and regain control of their finances. With more than 240 Canadian offices from coast-to-coast, MNP helps thousands of Canadians each year who are struggling with an overwhelming amount of debt. Visit MNPdebt.ca to contact a Licensed Insolvency Trustee or use our free Do it Yourself (DIY) debt assessment tools. For regular, bite-sized insights about debt and personal finances, subscribe to the MNP 3 Minute Debt Break Podcast.

    About the MNP Consumer Debt Index

    The MNP Consumer Debt Index measures Canadians’ attitudes toward their consumer debt and gauges their ability to pay their bills, endure unexpected expenses, and absorb interest-rate fluctuations without approaching insolvency. Conducted by Ipsos and updated quarterly, the Index is an industry-leading barometer of financial pressure or relief among Canadians.

    Now in its 32nd wave, the Index has rebounded to 88 points, up nine points since last quarter. Visit MNPdebt.ca/CDI to learn more.

    The data was compiled by Ipsos on behalf of MNP LTD between March 11 – 14, 2025. For this survey, a sample of 2,000 Canadians aged 18 years and over was interviewed. Weighting was then employed to balance demographics to ensure that the sample’s composition reflects that of the adult population according to Census data and to provide results intended to approximate the sample universe. The precision of Ipsos online polls is measured using a credibility interval. In this case, the poll is accurate to within ±2.5 percentage points, 19 times out of 20, had all Canadian adults been polled. The credibility interval will be wider among subsets of the population. All sample surveys and polls may be subject to other sources of error, including, but not limited to coverage error, and measurement error.

    Provincial data is available upon request.

    CONTACT

    Angela Joyce, Media Relations

    p. 1.403.681.9286
    e. angela.joyce@mnp.ca

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/d64985f7-0b02-45ea-a904-ae2b56c256ab

    The MIL Network –

    April 15, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Global: ‘Cross-border commuters’: the women who risk the dangerous crossing between Venezuela and Colombia each day

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Valentina Montoya Robledo, Senior Researcher in Gender and Mobility, University of Oxford

    Many people cross the border between Venezuela and Colombia each day – but they are not migrants. These people live on the Venezuelan side because they cannot afford rent or utilities in Colombia.

    The vast majority are women, many of whom are single mothers solely responsible for their children’s subsistence and care. They cross the border on foot, often with their children, because it is their only option for survival.

    High inflation in Venezuela has made many staples unaffordable, while many other essential items are either unavailable or poor quality. But rent is cheaper in their home country, so they are known as “cross-border commuters”.

    Because they are moving within the border zone, the law does not require them to have their passports stamped each time. On the Colombian side, they buy goods – products that are cheaper there — to sell in Venezuela. They find ingredients to make cakes and pastries, or hair dye for their clients. Others cross to attend the doctor or give birth.

    Some women take their children to school in Colombia. In Venezuela, public schools currently operate only two days a week, while across the border they run for the full five-day school week and welcome children from Venezuela. Some women used to take their little ones to nursery in Colombia – but not any more, since the recent USAID cuts removed funding for these nurseries.

    In the few hours without their children, the women find work in Colombia’s “gig economy”: recycling garbage, selling coffee, standing at traffic lights selling fried plantains, or even their bodies.

    When I asked a public official in the Colombian border city of Cúcuta about the women coming in from Venezuela each day, he told me: “The good ones cross over the bridge [legally], and the bad ones go underneath [bypassing border controls].”

    In fact, what brings these women into Colombia, and which route they use to arrive each day, is much more nuanced than that official suggests.

    Neither government understands

    Despite the Colombian government having set up education, health and employment programs for receiving and including Venezuelan migrants, these women are not traditional migrants. Neither government has much understanding of what it means for them to seek a livelihood in Colombia to survive and support their children.

    For the most part, neither government maintains updated statistics on how many women there are, the circumstances they face, why they cross over or under the bridge, the reasons or characteristics of their movements, and why they do not settle permanently in Colombia. These questions, among others, are what I have set out to research.

    Some women walk back and forth across one of the bridges over the Tachira river, which runs along the border between the two countries. Others, when returning to Venezuela carrying bundles of goods, cross on motorcycle taxis.

    But crossing the bridge is not always easy. Some women report that Venezuelan border guards search their bags and confiscate part of what they carry. Other times, they must pay – not just official taxes but bribes too.

    One woman told me how a guard asked for guava-paste sweets in exchange for letting her pass. Depending on the day and which guards are patrolling the crossing, often they have to present a legally required exit permit for their children, signed by the father. “What father? That man abandoned me when my child was born, and I haven’t heard from him since,” one woman told me.

    Without a permit, legally crossing the border into Colombia with their children becomes almost impossible. And there is no authority they can turn to for help.

    Under the bridge

    Then there are those who cross under the bridge every day, because they dare not risk being asked for a permit for their children.

    The Tachira river dries up and swells depending on the season, with multiple informal crossings known locally as “trochas”. When the river is low, people walk across on logs placed like makeshift bridges, or hop from stone to stone. When the water rises, they use small, self-built rafts.

    These crossings may be informal, but they can also be very dangerous. The women told me of clashes between armed groups on both sides of the river – some of them had been caught in the crossfire with their children in tow.

    Others described cases of sexual violence. They were particularly afraid for their daughters, because one of the men guarding the trocha may “set his sights on them” – meaning he might take a sexual interest.

    One woman told me cell phones are not allowed by the people who guard the trochas – who supposedly guarantee their safety. It adds to their sense of vulnerability. People generally pay to cross – if not with money then with their bodies. These are the unspoken rules of these pathways.

    As a result, every day the women fear for their safety and that of their children. But if something happens to them in the trochas, they mistrust the government and fear reporting these crimes.

    The women are vulnerable. They are neither “good” for crossing over the bridge, nor “bad” for crossing under it. Most make the decision on a day-to-day basis depending on their resources and time available, the papers they have, the goods they need to carry, and what they consider best for their children.

    As they say in Colombia, for these mothers “each day brings its own hustle”.

    Valentina Montoya Robledo receives funding from the John Fell Fund from the University of Oxford. She directs the transmedia project Invisible Commutes.

    – ref. ‘Cross-border commuters’: the women who risk the dangerous crossing between Venezuela and Colombia each day – https://theconversation.com/cross-border-commuters-the-women-who-risk-the-dangerous-crossing-between-venezuela-and-colombia-each-day-253552

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    April 15, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: SECU Foundation Awards $480,000 in Mission Development Grants to Support 12 North Carolina Non-profits

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    RALEIGH, N.C., April 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — SECU Foundation is pleased to announce its first cohort of Mission Development Grant (MDG) recipients for 2025, welcoming 12 new organizations to the program including non-profits in three counties – Chowan, Currituck, and Franklin – that are receiving first-time funding outside of scholarships and loans. The new grantees are working to address domestic violence and exploitation, homelessness, substance misuse, health and well-being, housing, and community support services.

    SECU Foundation’s MDG program provides each grantee $40,000 to help them build capacity, assess organizational needs, and receive coaching in specific areas from a dedicated consultant. To date, nearly $5 million has been awarded to 120 North Carolina non-profits that are providing critical services for the people of our state.

    “We are delighted to welcome these new grantees to our Mission Development Grant program,” said SECU Foundation Board Chair Chris Ayers. “This funding allows these non-profits to build capacity and sustainability as they bring assistance to their local communities.  SECU Foundation is proud of the role these grants have played in making organizations stronger across our state.”

    Grantees include:

    Several grantees shared the beneficial impacts the SECU Foundation funding will have for their organizations:

    • Hope Coalition Director Julie Huneycutt said, “We are honored to receive a Mission Development Grant to further the important work of our organization of preventing substance misuse and supporting youth and adults struggling with addiction and seeking recovery. The opportunity to work with a consultant in crafting our strategic plan will help us navigate the growth of our programs and the impact to those we are serving and help us sharpen our focus to be most effective and create lasting change. SECU Foundation has shown dedication in ensuring success among non-profits by providing this resource, and in turn is helping build healthier, more successful and sustainable non-profits for all of North Carolina. We are truly grateful.”
    • Women’s Resource Center Executive Director Michelle Morgan said, “Receiving SECU Foundation’s Mission Development Grant will empower us to expand our capacity and more effectively fulfill our mission of supporting women and families in need across Catawba County and the neighboring counties of Alexander, Burke, and Caldwell in North Carolina. This funding will be instrumental in strengthening our organization by enhancing program development, outreach, and fundraising efforts. We are deeply grateful for this incredible opportunity!”
    • Main Street Edenton Executive Director Ches Chesson said, “The Mission Development Grant from the SECU Foundation will be instrumental in helping us continue developing third spaces that foster connection and community. This support strengthens our efforts to make downtown Edenton a more resilient, inclusive, and welcoming place for all residents and visitors alike.”
    • Franklin Vance Warren Opportunity, Inc. CEO and Senior Advisor Abdul Sm Rasheed said, “We are honored to be a recipient of the SECU Foundation’s Mission Development Grant. This support will enable us to update our strategic plan and embark on a capital initiative aimed at retiring debt on our building, secure funding for future programs, and move towards sustainability. We are incredibly grateful for this opportunity. With the guidance of our consultant, we will strengthen our organization’s sustainability and ensure long-term success in serving our community. This investment will help us take significant strides toward financial stability, allowing us to expand our impact and continue delivering essential services.”

    About SECU and SECU Foundation
    A not-for-profit financial cooperative owned by its members, and federally insured by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA), SECU has been providing employees of the state of North Carolina and their families with consumer financial services for 87 years. SECU is the second largest credit union in the United States with $53 billion in assets. It serves more than 2.8 million members through 275 branch offices, 1,100 ATMs, Member Services Support via phone, www.ncsecu.org, and the SECU Mobile App. The SECU Foundation, a 501(c)(3) charitable organization funded by the contributions of SECU members, promotes local community development in North Carolina primarily through high-impact projects in the areas of housing, education, healthcare, and human services. Since 2004, SECU Foundation has made a collective financial commitment of over $300 million for initiatives to benefit North Carolinians statewide.

    Contact: Jama Campbell, Executive Director, secufoundation@ncsecu.org

    The MIL Network –

    April 15, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Household recycling centres keep extended hours over Easter

    Source: City of Birmingham

    Published: Monday, 14th April 2025

    Our Household Recycling Centres will continue their extended opening hours every day over the Easter holiday.

    Slots can be booked online and details of opening hours for each centres can be found here.

    Since Friday 4th April 2025, our clean-up crews across the city have collected 11,588 tonnes of waste, including the waste taken to HWRCs – the equivalent to 1,000 killer whales.

    Our crews have been clearing approx. 1,500 tonnes of waste a day since our vehicles have been able to deploy on time, with around 100-120 refuse collection vehicles out every day. We have repurposed between 40 and 60 housing and street cleansing vehicles and deployed multiple ‘grab trucks’ to clear large rubbish piles each day, prioritising 15 of the most affected hotspot wards.

    We are also supported by extra vehicles through mutual aid, with military support working alongside the managing director to support with planning and logistics – this is not about having personnel on the ground clearing rubbish.

    Leader of the Council Cllr John Cotton said: “Our work to clear the backlog is gathering pace and we will continue collecting waste over the weekend.

    “I fully appreciate that there is still more to do, and I share the frustration of people across the city, but now that we are getting our crews out on time every day, we are starting to see a difference and I want to thank our amazing crews for their hard work over the last week.

    “I also want to thank every citizen, community group and organisation that is helping with the clear-up. People are helping in neighbourhoods right across the city and their support is helping to clear our streets.”

    Talks to resolve the dispute will continue this week and Cllr Cotton added: “I will stress again that we have made a fair and reasonable offer that means that no-one has to lose any pay at all, with alternative roles offered within the service, or indeed a promotion to work as a driver. We’re determined to reach an agreement but in the meantime, the clear-up continues.”

    Useful links

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    April 15, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Global: Are Britons really poorer than they were 20 years ago, or does it just feel that way?

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Marcel Lukas, Senior Lecturer in Banking and Finance and Director of Executive Education, University of St Andrews

    pxl.store/Shutterstock

    Millions of UK households are facing what’s been dubbed “awful April” after rising council tax, water bills and broadband costs coincided with the new tax year. It could all start to hurt quite quickly. And it has led many people to ponder whether they’re genuinely worse off than previous generations – or simply experiencing a temporary pinch.

    Council tax has risen by an average of 5% across England (some rises in Scotland and Wales are even greater). Water bills are up by £10 per month on average, while many broadband and mobile providers have imposed rises several percentage points above the rate of inflation.

    This comes after years of economic volatility, from the 2008 financial crisis through Brexit, the COVID pandemic and the subsequent inflation surge.

    But beyond the immediate pain of these April increases, there’s a deeper question. Has there been a fundamental shift in British prosperity over the past two decades?

    Data from the UK’s Office for National Statistics (ONS) reveals a complex picture around real household disposable income (RHDI). This is the amount of money from all income that households have available for spending or saving after taxes and benefits, adjusted for inflation. As such, it’s a reliable way to see how much money people have to spend right now, compared to previous years or decades.

    Between 2000 and 2008, RHDI grew steadily at approximately 3% per year. The financial crisis brought this growth to an abrupt halt, with the period between 2008 and 2023 characterised by unprecedented stagnation.

    While there have been periods of modest recovery in 2023 and 2024, the overall trajectory shows sustained minimal growth in disposable income ever since the 2008 financial crisis.

    When broken down by income groups, the data tell a more nuanced story. The bottom 20% of households have experienced virtually no growth in real disposable income since 2008, while the top 20% recovered more quickly after initial setbacks. Income inequality, which narrowed slightly during the early 2010s, has widened again in recent years.

    Underlying the income stagnation is Britain’s productivity problem. Labour productivity growth, which averaged around 2% annually in the five decades before 2008, has grown at less than 1% per year since. This has directly impacted wage growth.

    Several factors contribute to this productivity puzzle – under-investment in infrastructure and skills, a shift toward service-sector jobs with traditionally lower productivity growth, and economic uncertainty discouraging business investment.

    Housing – the great divider

    Perhaps the most significant factor in understanding why people might feel poorer is housing costs. The ratio of average house prices to average earnings has nearly doubled over the past 20 years. In 2002, a typical house cost around five times the average salary. But by 2023, this had risen to approximately nine times.

    For renters, the situation is also very challenging. Private rental costs increased faster than wages in the year to January 2025 in most regions, particularly in London. The proportion of income spent on rent increased from roughly 25% to more than 30%) for the average renter between 2022 and 2024.

    This housing cost burden creates a stark divide between generations. Those who bought property before the mid-2000s housing boom have generally seen their housing costs decline as a proportion of income as their mortgages were paid down. Meanwhile, younger generations face significantly higher barriers to home-ownership and higher ongoing costs.

    Housing costs are a big determiner of whether you feel wealthy in the UK.
    Alex Segre/Shutterstock

    Another important part of the overall picture is the consumer experience – and how the quality and variety of goods and services have changed. Technology has made many products more affordable and accessible. Smartphones, computers and TVs were significantly more expensive (or didn’t even exist in current forms) 20 years ago.

    But essential services such as childcare have seen costs rise faster than general inflation. The same is true for grocery costs, which have seen a substantial increase since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. This has created a confusing dual experience where discretionary purchases may feel more affordable while essential costs consume a greater proportion of income.

    So are Britons actually poorer? The facts suggest that while the average Briton isn’t necessarily worse off in absolute terms than 20 years ago, many are certainly no better off. This in itself is a stark contrast to the expectation of continual improvement that characterised previous generations.

    When accounting for housing costs, younger generations are demonstrably worse off than their predecessors at the same life stage. For many, the combination of stagnant incomes and rising costs for essentials has created a genuine decline in living standards and financial security.

    “Awful April” isn’t just a seasonal discomfort. It is a manifestation of long-term economic trends that have fundamentally altered Britain’s prosperity trajectory. The coming local and mayoral elections in England will no doubt see these issues take centre stage. There will likely be a thorny debate around the expectation that each generation should be better off than the last.

    Marcel Lukas receives funding from The British Academy.

    – ref. Are Britons really poorer than they were 20 years ago, or does it just feel that way? – https://theconversation.com/are-britons-really-poorer-than-they-were-20-years-ago-or-does-it-just-feel-that-way-254097

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    April 15, 2025

  • MIL-OSI China: Local guides hold the untranslatable edge in China’s tourism boom

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    Dan Niu, once confined to a cubicle crunching numbers at a Shanghai bank, now spends weekdays cycling through the city’s alleyways, leading foreign tourists past steamed bun stalls and hidden galleries tucked off the beaten path.
    “On our rides, we can stop anytime to chat with locals at breakfast spots or dance with retirees in public squares,” said Dan, whose cycling tours offer international travelers a half-day glimpse into everyday Shanghai, far from the usual tourist trail.
    Dan’s career shift reflects the boom in “China travel,” partly fueled by the continuous optimization of visa-free policies. To date, China has introduced unilateral visa-free policies for 38 countries, and implemented 240-hour transit visa-free arrangements for 54 countries.
    The impact has been striking. More than 20 million visa-free inbound trips were recorded in 2024, a 112.3 percent increase year-on-year, according to the National Immigration Administration.
    This inbound tourism boom has opened up opportunities for people with foreign language skills like Dan.
    GZL International Travel Service in Guangdong Province, south China, has expanded its multilingual guide team to around 30 people, including 14 new team members hired since late 2023, with English-speaking guides remaining the most sought-after.
    In an era of AI-powered instant translation, a tourist may travel to any foreign country without the need for a human translator. However, human connection remains highly valued. After all, while technology can translate, it cannot guide. The warmth of a smile and the bond forged in a shared moment still require a human touch.
    “What we’re seeing goes far beyond language assistance,” said Zhou Weihong, deputy general manager of Shanghai-based travel agency Spring Tour. Since the relaxation of visa policies, the agency has witnessed a growing influx of European and American tourists seeking immersive cultural experiences that standard itineraries often overlook.
    To meet this demand, the agency has included the 2025 Formula 1 Chinese Grand Prix in its tour packages, offering international visitors an exclusive combination of race event access and carefully curated Shanghai city experiences.
    Xu Junjie, a Japanese-speaking guide, has also observed a growing trend in demand for culturally distinctive experiences.
    “Alongside classic tours, visitors are increasingly drawn to quintessentially Chinese activities like tai chi and calligraphy,” Xu said. “Some even request tours of filming locations inspired by Chinese TV dramas.”
    Zhao Da, a Spanish-speaking guide, said Spanish tourist visitors tend to have different priorities. “Spanish tourists are captivated by China’s natural landscapes, with river cruises being their favorite,” Zhao told Xinhua. “Equally important is shopping for unique Chinese-style fashion items.”
    Even for the tourists from the same region, their interests can vary with their ages. Chen Junjun, an English-speaking guide in Shanghai, observed that elderly European tourists seek historical experience delivered with nostalgic warmth, while Gen Z travelers crave urban explorations, including the city’s hidden food gems and vibrant street culture. Therefore, Chen tailors itineraries to suit generational preferences.
    Xu Kai, another English-speaking tour guide, has seen a noticeable rise in visitors from South America. He also noticed that this year’s inbound tourism season started earlier than last year.
    Specializing in high-end travel, Xu curates personalized itineraries that offer visitors access to lesser-known, authentic experiences.
    “What surprises most guests is how different China is from what they expected,” Xu told Xinhua. “I often hear things like, ‘This isn’t what we imagined at all,’ or ‘seeing is believing.’”
    Though consulting tourist agencies remains a choice for many foreign travelers, popular Chinese social media platforms have become a thriving market where tourists discover potential tour guides. This is how Yami, a Russian-language graduate student, finds clients.
    Living in southwest China’s Sichuan Province, home of pandas and spicy hotpot, Yami obtained a tour guide certification in early 2024 and began offering services through Xiaohongshu, or rednote, a popular Chinese social media app.
    Yami receives a flood of inquiries through rednote. In the second half of 2024 alone, Yami led 16 Russian tour groups, and the schedule is already fully booked through June this year.
    For Yami, guiding is more than just a paycheck. “Through daily interactions, I learn about my guests’ lives back home. It feels like a study-abroad experience, with international visitors bringing the world to me,” Yami said. 

    MIL OSI China News –

    April 15, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: ASUS Announces ExpertBook P1, P3 and P5 Now Available in Canada

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, April 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — ASUS today announced that the new ExpertBook P1 (P1403 and P1503) laptop models are now available in Canada through the ASUS Store, selected retailers, and B2B channels. These additions join the high-performance ExpertBook P5 (P5404), already available online on the ASUS Store, Amazon, Canada Computer, Costco, Memory Express, Staples, and Walmart, and precede the upcoming ExpertBook P3 (P3405), set to be available for order later this May.

    Designed to meet the evolving needs of professionals and SMBs with limited IT support, the new ExpertBook P series combines sleek portability, enterprise-grade security, and robust AI collaboration tools. Each device is MIL-STD-810H military-grade tested1, features Windows Secured-core PC compliance, and includes a one-year subscription to McAfee+ Premium with Smart AI™ for 24/7 protection, identity monitoring, and privacy tools.

    All three series also feature ASUS-exclusive AI ExpertMeet2, a powerful productivity suite offering real-time translation, multilingual transcription, AI-generated meeting summaries, speaker differentiation, and on-screen watermarks — all processed locally for enhanced security.

    ExpertBook P1: Practical Performance for Everyday Business

    The ASUS ExpertBook P1 series is built for professionals who value reliability and essential performance. Available in 14-inch and 15-inch Full HD options and weighing as little as 1.4 kg3, the P1 is powered by up to 13th Gen Intel® Core™ i7 processors, with support for up to 64 GB RAM4 and 1 TB of dual-SSD RAID storage for enhanced data speed and reliability. 

    A refined, durable design ensures it can handle commutes and daily use, while thoughtful security touches like TPM 2.0, BIOS-level protections, and BIOS setting recovery tools ensure peace of mind. Designed for organizations seeking affordable yet powerful solutions, the P1 balances performance and durability for professionals on the move.

    ExpertBook P3: Versatile and Ready for Hybrid Work

    Designed for hybrid professionals and SMBs, the ExpertBook P3 blends portability and performance in 14-inch sizes starting at 1.36 kg5. It’s equipped with up to an Intel® Core™ i7-13620H processor, 64 GB of DDR5 memory, and dual PCIe 4.0 SSDs for smooth multitasking.

    With an optimized layout, spill-resistant keyboard, optional IR camera, and exclusive ASUS ExpertCool thermal system, the P3 ensures comfort, performance, and quiet operation all day long. It’s an ideal choice for flexible work and learning environments where reliability and privacy matter.

    ExpertBook P5: Advanced AI Power for the Future of Work

    At the top of the lineup, the ExpertBook P5 is designed for high-demand professionals who require cutting-edge AI performance. Featuring up to the Intel® Core™ Ultra 7 processor (Series 2) with 47 TOPS of NPU performance, the P5 delivers up to 3X faster AI capabilities than previous generations.

    A sleek 1.29 kg6 aluminum chassis houses a 2.5K 144 Hz display, advanced cooling, and a workspace designed for productivity and comfort. With support for NIST-compliant BIOS, a five-year BIOS update policy, and a focus on sustainability (featuring 50% recycled materials), the P5 is engineered for forward-thinking businesses that want speed, security, and style.

    ASUS Business Support

    Understanding the critical needs of modern professionals, ASUS Business Support is not merely a warranty — it’s a comprehensive service package that includes on-site repairs, dedicated technical assistance and 24/7 customer support. This robust support framework ensures that every ExpertBook user experiences minimal downtime and receives personalized solutions to their technical issues.

    AVAILABILITY & PRICING

    The ExpertBook P1 is now available on the ASUS Store, selected retailers and through B2B channels, with detailed specifications below.

    The ExpertBook P5 is already available online on the ASUS Store, Amazon, Canada Computer, Costco, Memory Express, Staples, and Walmart with different configurations available below.

    The upcoming ExpertBook P3 is set to be available for order later this May in different configurations on the ASUS Store and selected retailers.

    For detailed specifications, availability, pricing, and where to buy links, please see below.

    Please contact your local ASUS representative for further information.

    SPECIFICATIONS

    ExpertBook P1 (P1503CVA and P1403CVA)

    Model P1503CVA-H716512-CA P1503CVA-H716512-CB P1503CVA-H516512-CA P1503CVA-H516512-CB
    Operating system Windows 11 Home
    Processor Intel® Core™ i7-13620H Processor
    2.4 GHz (24MB Cache, up to 4.9 GHz, 10 cores, 16 Threads)    		 Intel® Core™ i5-13420H Processor
    2.1 GHz (12MB Cache, up to 4.6 GHz, 8 cores, 12 Threads)
    Graphics Intel® UHD Graphics for Intel® Core™ with 64-bit memory populated
    Memory SO-DIMM: 16 GB DDR5 5200 MHz

    2x SO-DIMM, up to 64 GB DDR5 5200 MHz
    Storage 512 GB M.2 PCIe® 4.0 SSD

    1 x M.2 2280 NVMe PCIe® 4.0, up to 1TB PCIe® Gen4 SSD
    1 x M.2 2230 NVMe PCIe® 4.0, up to 512GB PCIe® Gen4 SSD
    Display 15.6″ FHD (1920 x 1080) TN, 16:9, 60Hz, wide view, Anti-Glare, 250 nits, 45% NTSC
    I/O ports 2 x USB 3.2 Gen2 Type-C® (PD, DP)
    2 x USB 3.2 Gen1 Type-A
    1 x HDMI® 1.4b
    1 x 3.5 mm Combo audio jack
    1 x Kensington® nano lock slot
    1 x RJ45 Gigabit Ethernet
    Camera HD camera, webcam shield
    Wireless WiFi 6 (802.11ax) (Dual band) 2*2 + Bluetooth® 5.2 Wireless Card
    Audio 2 x speaker with Dirac technology support
    2 x Array microphone
    ASUS AI Noise-Canceling Technology
    Weight 1.65 kg (3.64 lbs)
    Dimensions (WxDxH) 35.95 x 23.22 x 1.99 ~ 1.99 cm (14.15″ x 9.14″ x 0.78″ ~ 0.78″)
    Battery 50 Wh-3 cell, Li-Polymer
    Security Nano Kensington® lock slot
    Fingerprint Sensor (combo touchpad)
    Webcam Shield
    TPM 2.0
    Keyboard and touchpad Full-size keyboard with 1.35 mm key travel / spill-resistant to 66cc*

    *Quantity used during testing, with duration of 3 minutes
    Keyboard English Bilingual English Bilingual
    Featured software ASUS Control Center (optional), MyASUS, ExpertMeet
    AC adapter 65 W AC Adapter, USB Type-C® (Output: 20 V DC, 3.25 A, 65 W / Input: 100-240 V AC, 50/60 Hz universal)
    Product Availability ASUS ASUS ASUS

    CDW

    		 ASUS
    Model P1503CVA-P516512-CA P1503CVA-P516512-CB P1403CVA-P516512-CA P1403CVA-P516512-CB
    Operating system Windows 11 Pro
    Processor Intel® Core™ i5-13420H Processor
    2.1 GHz (12MB Cache, up to 4.6 GHz, 8 cores, 12 Threads)
    Graphics Intel® UHD Graphics for Intel® Core™ with 64-bit memory populated
    Memory SO-DIMM: 16 GB DDR5 5200 MHz

    2x SO-DIMM, up to 64 GB DDR5 5200 MHz
    Storage 512 GB M.2 PCIe® 4.0 SSD

    1 x M.2 2280 NVMe PCIe® 4.0, up to 1TB PCIe® Gen4 SSD
    1 x M.2 2230 NVMe PCIe® 4.0, up to 512GB PCIe® Gen4 SSD
    Display 15.6″ FHD (1920 x 1080) TN, 16:9, 60Hz, wide view, Anti-Glare, 250 nits, 45% NTSC 14″ FHD (1920 x 1080) TN, 16:9, 60Hz, wide view, Anti-Glare, 300 nits, 45% NTSC
    I/O ports 2 x USB 3.2 Gen2 Type-C® (PD, DP)
    2 x USB 3.2 Gen1 Type-A
    1 x HDMI® 1.4b
    1 x 3.5 mm Combo audio jack
    1 x Kensington® nano lock slot
    1 x RJ45 Gigabit Ethernet
    Camera HD camera, webcam shield
    Wireless WiFi 6 (802.11ax) (Dual band) 2*2 + Bluetooth® 5.2 Wireless Card
    Audio 2 x speaker with Dirac technology support
    2 x Array microphone
    ASUS AI Noise-Canceling Technology
    Weight 1.65 kg (3.64 lbs) 1.43 kg (3.15 lbs)
    Dimensions (WxDxH) 35.95 x 23.22 x 1.99 ~ 1.99 cm (14.15″ x 9.14″ x 0.78″ ~ 0.78″) 32.45 x 21.44 x 1.97 ~ 1.97 cm (12.78″ x 8.44″ x 0.78″ ~ 0.78″)
    Battery 50 Wh-3 cell, Li-Polymer
    Security Nano Kensington® lock slot
    Fingerprint Sensor (combo touchpad)
    Webcam Shield
    TPM 2.0
    Keyboard and touchpad Full-size keyboard with 1.35 mm key travel / spill-resistant to 66cc*

    *Quantity used during testing, with duration of 3 minutes
    Keyboard English Bilingual English Bilingual
    Featured software ASUS Control Center (optional), MyASUS, ExpertMeet
    AC adapter 65 W AC Adapter, USB Type-C® (Output: 20 V DC, 3.25 A, 65 W / Input: 100-240 V AC, 50/60 Hz universal)
    Product Availability ASUS

    Amazon

    CDW

    		 ASUS

    Amazon

    		 ASUS ASUS

    ExpertBook P5 (P5404)

    Model P5405CSA-P73-CB P5405CSA-DH71-CA P5405CSA-P53-CA P5405CSA-CH51-CB
    Operating system Windows 11 Pro Windows 11 Home Windows 11 Pro Windows 11 Home
    Processor Intel® Core™ 7 Processor 258 V 32 GB 1.8 GHz (12 MB Cache, up to 4.8 GHz, 8 cores, 8 Threads); Intel® AI Boost NPU up to 47 TOPS Intel® Core™ 5 Processor 226 V 16 GB 1.6 GHz (8 MB Cache, up to 4.5 GHz, 8 cores, 8 Threads); Intel® AI Boost NPU up to 40 TOPS
    Graphics Intel® Arc™ 140 V GPU (16GB) Intel® Arc™ 130 V GPU (8GB)
    Memory 32 GB LPDDR5X-8533 MOP 16 GB LPDDR5X-8533 MOP
    Storage 1 x 1 TB M.2 PCIe® 4.0 2280 SSD (Upgradeable to 2 TB)

    1 x M.2 2230 SSD, up to 1 TB PCIe® 4.0 SSD User upgradeable

    		 1 x 512 GB M.2 PCIe® 4.0 2280 SSD (Upgradeable to 2 TB)

    1 x M.2 2230 SSD, up to 1 TB PCIe® 4.0 SSD User upgradeable
    Display 14.0″ 2560 x 1600 Anti-Glare, 100% sRGB, 400 nits
    I/O ports 2X Thunderbolt™ 4, USB 3.2 Gen2, support wide range 5–20 V

    1 x USB Type-A 3.2 Gen2, support BC1.2

    1 x USB Type-A 3.2 Gen2

    1 x HDMI® 2.1

    1 x Audio combo jack

    1 x Kensington® Nano lock slot
    Camera 1080p FHD IR camera, Webcam Shield
    Wireless WiFi 6E (802.11ax) (Dual band) 2*2 + Bluetooth® 5.3 Wireless Card
    Audio 2 x speaker

    2 x multi-array microphone with intelliGO beam forming

    Smart amp technology

    Dolby Atmos certified
    Weight 1.65 kg (3.64 lbs)
    Dimensions (WxDxH) 31.2 cm x 22.3 cm x 1.645 cm (12.28” x 8.78” x 0.65”)
    Battery 63 Wh, 3-cell, Li-polymer
    Touchpad ASUS ErgoSense touchpad

    Smart gesture touchpad

    Silent touchpad technology
    Keyboard Full-size keyboard with 1.5 mm key travel; backlit, spill-resistant 78 cc
    Keyboard Bilingual English English Bilingual
    Featured software ASUS Control Center (optional), MyASUS, ExpertMeet
    AC adapter 65 W non-wall mount Type-C® power jack, Input : 100–240 V AC, 50 / 60 Hz universal
    Product Availability ASUS

    Amazon

    Insight

    Memory Express

    		 ASUS

    Amazon

    CDW

    		 ASUS

    Amazon

    CDW

    Memory Express

    		 ASUS

    Costco

    ExpertBook P3 (P3405)

    Model P3405CVA-H7321-CA
    Operating system Windows 11 Home
    Processor Intel® Core™ i7-13620H Processor
    2.4 GHz (24MB Cache, up to 4.9 GHz, 10 cores, 16 Threads)
    Graphics Intel® UHD Graphics for Intel® Core™ with 64-bit memory populated
    Memory SO-DIMM: 32 GB DDR5 5200 MHz

    2x SO-DIMM, up to 64 GB DDR5 5200 MHz
    Storage 1 TB M.2 2280 MVMe™ PCIe® 4.0 SSD

    Includes 1x M.2 2230 PCIe 4.0 for extension
    Display 14″ WQXGA 2.5K (2560 x 1600), 16:10, 144Hz, Anti-Glare, 250 nits, 45% NTSC
    I/O ports 2x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A

    2x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C support display / power delivery

    1x HDMI 2.1 TMDS

    1x 3.5mm Combo Audio Jack

    1x RJ45 Gigabit Ethernet
    Camera 1080p FHD camera with IR function to support Windows Hello

    With webcam shield
    Wireless Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) (Dual band) 2*2 + Bluetooth® 5.4 Wireless Card
    Audio Audio by Dirac

    Smart Amp Technology

    Built-in speaker

    Built-in array microphone
    Weight 1.39 kg (3.06 lbs)
    Dimensions (WxDxH) 31.51 x 22.68 x 1.79 ~ 1.80 cm (12.41″ x 8.93″ x 0.70″ ~ 0.71″)
    Battery 63WHrs, 3S1P, 3-cell Li-ion
    Security Nano Kensington® lock slot
    Fingerprint Sensor (combo touchpad)
    Webcam Shield
    TPM 2.0
    Keyboard English
    Featured software ASUS Control Center (optional), MyASUS, ExpertMeet
    AC adapter 65 W AC Adapter, USB Type-C® (Output: 20 V DC, 3.25 A, 65 W / Input: 100-240 V AC, 50/60 Hz universal)
    Product Availability ASUS (available later in May)

    NOTES TO EDITORS

    Where to buy links:

    ASUS ExpertBook P1: https://www.asus.com/ca-en/laptops/for-work/expertbook/expertbook-p1-p1503/where-to-buy/

    ASUS ExpertBook P3: https://www.asus.com/ca-en/laptops/for-work/expertbook/asus-expertbook-p3-p3605/

    ASUS ExpertBook P5: https://www.asus.com/ca-en/laptops/for-work/expertbook/expertbook-p5-p5405/where-to-buy/

    ASUS ExpertBook P1 (P1503): https://www.asus.com/ca-en/laptops/for-work/expertbook/expertbook-p1-p1503/

    ASUS ExpertBook P1 (P1403): https://www.asus.com/ca-en/laptops/for-work/expertbook/expertbook-p1-p1403/

    ASUS ExpertBook P3 (P3405): https://www.asus.com/ca-en/laptops/for-work/expertbook/asus-expertbook-p3-p3405/

    ASUS ExpertBook P5 (P5405): https://www.asus.com/ca-en/laptops/for-work/expertbook/expertbook-p5-p5405/

    ASUS ExpertBook laptops: https://www.asus.com/ca-en/business/laptops/expertbook/

    ASUS Business website: https://www.asus.com/ca-en/business/

    ASUS LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asus/posts/

    ASUS Business LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/asus-business/

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

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

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

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

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

    About ASUS

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

    1 The testing regime includes the requirements of both military-grade standards and ASUS quality tests, and varies depending on device. MIL-STD-810H testing is conducted on selected ASUS products only. Note that the MIL-STD-810H testing helps to ensure the quality of ASUS products but does not indicate a particular fitness for military use. The test is performed under laboratory conditions. Any damage caused by attempts to replicate these test conditions would be considered accidental, and would not be covered by the standard ASUS warranty. Additional coverage is available with ASUS Premium Care.
    2 For the full AI feature experience, 12 GB of memory is required.
    3 Weight may vary according to configuration.
    4 Memory is upgradable up to 64 GB.
    5 Weight may vary according to configuration
    6 Weight may vary according to configuration

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/55d33a2c-870a-49ca-be18-b986e1500401

    The MIL Network –

    April 15, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: United Bank and Federal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta Award $4.7 Million to Support Affordable Housing in Washington, D.C. and Virginia

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    WASHINGTON, April 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — United Bank (NASDAQ: UBSI) and the Federal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta (FHLBank Atlanta) announced today an investment of $4.7 million in grant funding, designated for five separate projects that will create 363 new affordable housing units in Washington, D.C. and Virginia.

    The funding is sourced from FHLBank Atlanta’s Affordable Housing Program (AHP) General Fund and administered through United Bank.

    These funds will go toward the following projects in Washington, D.C.:

    • Hope View Apartments received $1 million to use for the development of 42 housing units for seniors with incomes 80% or below the area median income (AMI), 16 of which are reserved for homeless households. This development will include approximately 8,000 square feet for community services for residents and the surrounding community. Anacostia Economic Development Corporation is the sponsor and developer, and T&H Investment Properties LLC also sponsored the project, which is expected to be completed in early 2026.
    • 2229 M Street NE Apartments received $1 million for the development of 92 rental units for families, 89% of which are for households with incomes at or below 50% of AMI. The project is sponsored by Housing Up and THC Affordable Housing and is expected to be completed by the end of 2026.
    • Wagner Senior Residences received $742,805 for the development of an apartment complex that will provide 67 affordable housing units, 90% of which will be for seniors with incomes below 50% of AMI. The Residences are sponsored by Justice Housing Inc. in partnership with Miller Housing LLC and is expected to be completed by the end of 2026.
    • 2911 Rhode Island Avenue NE Apartments received $1 million toward the development of a new affordable rental project, which will provide 100 units for households between 30% and 80% of AMI. The project is sponsored by Lincoln-Westmoreland Housing, Inc. and is expected to be completed in spring of 2028.

    In Harrisonburg, Va.:

    • Bluestone Town Center Residences received $1 million for the development of 62 affordable housing units for seniors with incomes between 30% and 60% of AMI. These senior housing units will be part of the full Bluestone Town Center development, a 90-acre master planned, multi-phased community that will create 900 units of mixed-income housing and service-oriented commercial space less than five minutes from downtown Harrisonburg. Harrisonburg Redevelopment & Housing Authority is the project sponsor and developer. The project is expected to be completed by early 2026.

    Each property will provide residents with high-speed internet and offer education and training services on topics including computer skills, life skills, money management, GED preparation, literacy, and nutrition.

    “United Bank has a longstanding history of supporting community development initiatives that provide affordable housing, support low- or moderate-income senior citizens and families, and revitalize communities in meaningful ways,” said Christina Cudney, Corporate Social Responsibility Officer, United Bank. “These funds from FHLBank Atlanta help us continue to move the needle on pressing challenges faced by our communities to fulfill this ongoing commitment. With the rise in construction costs, several projects in our area had a need for gap funding, and FHLBank Atlanta’s grant program is enabling these initiatives to cross the finish line sooner than otherwise possible.”

    FHLBank Atlanta’s General Fund provides grants annually to assist in the acquisition, construction, rehabilitation, or preservation of affordable housing projects. In December 2024, FHLBank Atlanta announced 66 grant recipient winners of its 2024 program, which allocated a total of $55 million to support the development and repair of more than 4,200 affordable housing units.

    “It is inspiring to see United Bank’s dedication to affordable housing and economic vitality,” said FHLBank Atlanta President and CEO Kirk Malmberg. “Understanding the growing need for more affordable housing, our members like United Bank are working hand in hand with their local developers and nonprofits to make a lasting impact, and we are honored to see funds from FHLBank Atlanta support such transformational projects.”

    About United Bank
    United Bank is a premier community bank headquartered in Greater Washington, D.C. A subsidiary of United Bankshares, Inc. (NASDAQ: UBSI), United has consolidated assets of more than $32 billion with over 240 offices located throughout Virginia, Maryland, West Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Georgia, as well as Washington, D.C., where it is the community bank of the nation’s capital. The Bank is committed to growing the relationships it has built since 1839 and offering a competitive suite of banking and lending products, treasury management, wealth management, mortgage services, personal and business credit cards, and more. United is also committed to providing excellence in service to the communities throughout its footprint, strategically aligning resources to move the needle on pressing challenges in vital impact areas, including financial literacy, children and education, affordable housing, health, and economic vitality. For more information, visit BankWithUnited.com.

    About Federal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta
    FHLBank Atlanta offers competitively-priced financing, community development grants, and other banking services to help member financial institutions make affordable home mortgages and provide economic development credit to neighborhoods and communities. The Bank’s members—its shareholders and customers—are commercial banks, credit unions, savings institutions, community development financial institutions, and insurance companies located in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Maryland, North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, and the District of Columbia. FHLBank Atlanta is one of 11 district Banks in the Federal Home Loan Bank System. Since 1990, the FHLBanks have awarded approximately $9.1 billion in Affordable Housing Program funds, assisting more than 1.2 million households.

    For more information, visit our website at www.fhlbatl.com.

    MEDIA CONTACTS:
    Federal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta
    Sheryl Touchton
    stouchton@fhlbatl.com

    United Bank
    Sameera Jordan
    sameera.jordan@bankwithunited.com

    The MIL Network –

    April 15, 2025
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