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  • MIL-OSI Economics: Verizon powers winning network experience on Super Bowl Sunday

    Source: Verizon

    Headline: Verizon powers winning network experience on Super Bowl Sunday

    What you need to know:

    • Verizon customers in New Orleans used 93.5 TB of data on Super Bowl Sunday.
    • The fans at Caesars Superdome used 38.1 TB of data in and around the stadium.
    • Verizon customers benefited from 2.4x faster download and 4.8x faster upload speeds than the competition.

    NEW YORK – As the official 5G network of the NFL, Verizon powered the gameday experience across New Orleans on Super Bowl Sunday. As fans gathered to watch the Philadelphia Eagles’ victory over the Kansas City Chiefs, Verizon customers used 93.5 TB of data. No matter where they were celebrating, fans benefited from the massive network upgrades made across the city and were able to watch game highlights, keep tabs on players’ stats, and livestream with friends to share their experience.

    The fans in attendance at Caesars Superdome used 38.1 TB of data in and around the stadium, with approximately 53% of the 65,719 attendees using Verizon’s network.

    Verizon customers benefited from super-fast speeds1 in the stadium, with 2.4x faster median download speeds and 4.8x faster median upload speeds than the competition!

    • Peak: Download speed 4,161 Mbps, Upload speed 1,067 Mbps
    • Median: Download speed 1,775 Mbps, Upload speed 159 Mbps

    Committed to New Orleans for the future

    For the past three years, Verizon has been focused on providing the most reliable network experience in New Orleans for our customers, and has been making significant investments that nearly triple New Orleans’ network capacity and ready it for the more than 18 million tourists and business travelers who come to the city each year. Verizon laid out more than 560 miles of fiber in the Greater New Orleans area, which is enough fiber to wrap around the outside of the Caesars Superdome 869 times.

    Verizon added unmatched large capacity connections across the city and at the most congested areas in New Orleans, including Bourbon Street, the New Orleans Convention Center, Louis Armstrong International Airport, Smoothie King Arena, Woldenberg Park, and Jackson Square. This means that when even the largest crowds were gathered, customers had the gold-star network experience they expect from Verizon.

    A super-sized network for the Superdome

    At Caesars Superdome, Verizon delivered an exceptional network experience so fans could capture and share every moment. Verizon’s engineers worked tirelessly to add enough coverage and capacity to cover a small city, deploying 511 5G UltraWideband and 155 C-band radios covering the stadium’s seating areas, back of the house, suites, lounges, press box, concourse areas and entry ways.

    1 Measurement results are based on umlaut testing of 486 to 532 samples per network operator during the actual game, including half time show.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Verizon has the best 5G network in America

    Source: Verizon

    Headline: Verizon has the best 5G network in America

    NEW YORK – Verizon’s relentless focus on innovation and customer experience has once again earned them the top spot in the industry, claiming Best 5G, Fastest 5G, and Most Reliable 5G in the 2024 RootMetrics® second half drive tests, the nation’s most rigorous, independent scientific study. This win underscores Verizon’s unwavering commitment to providing customers with a superior 5G network experience where they live, work, and play.

    “Our priority is delivering the best, most reliable, secure 5G network experience for our customers,” said Joe Russo, EVP & President, Global Network and Technology at Verizon. “This recognition from Rootmetrics reflects our dedication to staying ahead of the curve through technology innovation and ensuring our customers can always count on us. It’s why more customers trust us than any other carrier in the nation.”

    Verizon’s success in the 2024 second half testing extends beyond national rankings. In addition to the eighth consecutive national 5G reliability award, Verizon achieved 874 Metro Area RootScore Awards, 70% more awards than the closest competitor. Taken together, these reports offer customers an unbiased, third party end-to-end look at performance from nation to neighborhood.

    Customers expect more. Verizon innovates for them.

    These results don’t happen by accident. Verizon engineers work tirelessly to push the boundaries of innovation, expand access to the network for more customers, and drive continuous improvements in network performance. Below are some of Verizon’s recent efforts that contributed to the outstanding Rootmetrics results and are helping Verizon families do more.

    • Verizon engineers are rapidly expanding the 5G network, ensuring more people have access to faster and more reliable connections than ever before. Now more than 280 million people have access to Verizon’s 5G Ultra Wideband network.
    • Home Broadband availability is being accelerated to meet the growing demand for high-speed, reliable internet in homes across the country. 
    • Satellite backup connectivity has been introduced to add another level of reliability for customers.
    • The deployment of Verizon’s 5G Standalone Core is enhancing network performance, enabling faster speeds, lower latency, and enabling network slicing capabilities.
    • By integrating 5G Advanced technologies, Verizon is building a network of the future that is more intelligent, efficient, and capable of supporting emerging technologies and applications.
    • To ensure the network can handle the demands of tomorrow, engineers are proactively preparing it for AI workloads, paving the way for future innovations.

    “More people trust Verizon because we deliver where it matters most to them,” added Russo. “We’re building the network of the future, not just for today, which is why we continue to lead in 5G performance and reliability.”

    Based on RootMetrics® State of 5G Report, United States, 2H 2024. Tested with best commercially available smartphones on three national mobile networks across all available network types. Your experiences may vary. RootMetrics rankings are not an endorsement of Verizon.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Europe: European Court of Human Rights to hear landmark ‘pushback’ cases

    Source: Amnesty International –

    On 12 February, the Grand Chamber of the European Court of Human Rights will hear three cases against Latvia, Lithuania and Poland concerning alleged unlawful pushbacks — summary returns of migrants and refugees at the border — from these EU states to Belarus. This is the first time the European Court will rule on human rights implications of what the EU and its member states are calling ‘instrumentalized’ migration.

    Amnesty International delegates will be in attendance.

    “We have witnessed a growing tendency to invoke security concerns in migration policies. We must resist efforts to normalize discriminatory exemptions from human rights based on so-called ‘emergency’ situations,” said Mandi Mudarikwa, Amnesty International’s Head of Strategic Litigation.

    “Amnesty International’s research has shown that Latvia, Lithuania and Poland are using brazen migration controls and pushback practices under the guise of countering so-called “instrumentalized” migration.

    “Our research also shows the Belarussian authorities’ role in exacerbating the dire situation at the border and endangering lives. This does not absolve Latvia, Lithuania, and Poland of their international human rights obligations. Quite the opposite – it should invoke more rather than less humanity.

    “These cases, and the eventual ruling, present a crucial opportunity to reaffirm the right to asylum, the absolute nature of non-refoulement obligations and people’s right not to be forced back to a place where they are exposed to inhuman treatment and all sorts of human rights violations.”

    Background

    On 26 April 2023 and 18 October 2024 respectively, Amnesty International submitted a third-party intervention to the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR) in the cases of C.O.G.G and Others v Lithuania and H.M.M. and Others v. Latvia.

    Both cases raise important questions regarding Article 3 of the European Convention on Human Rights, which guarantees the prohibition of torture, including in its non-refoulement components, Article 13 on the right to an effective remedy, and Article 4 of Protocol 4 (A4P4), which prohibits collective expulsions.

    Amnesty International has long documented violence and abuses of human rights at the Latvian, Lithuanian, and Polish borders with Belarus. In these countries, abuse of emergency powers has escalated into several human rights violations, including unlawful returns, torture and other ill-treatment, arbitrary detention, and the use of intimidation and violence to force people to return “voluntarily”.

    For more information or to arrange an interview, please contact Amnesty International’s press office:

    [email protected]

    +32 483 680 812        

    X: @amnestypress  

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Türkiye: Acquittal of three Gezi Park defendants brings chronicle of injustice to an end 

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Reacting to the acquittal at the retrial of Mücella Yapıcı, Hakan Altınay and Yiğit Ekmekçi, whose initial convictions and 18-year prison sentences in connection with mass protests in 2013 were overturned in September 2023, Milena Buyum, Amnesty International’s Senior Türkiye Campaigner, said: 

    “Today’s decision brings an end to the politically motivated prosecution of Mücella Yapıcı, Hakan Altınay and Yiğit Ekmekçi, and the chronicle of injustice they have suffered. Over the course of more than seven years, prosecuting authorities repeatedly failed to provide credible evidence to substantiate the baseless charges laid against them. They should never have been subjected to any charges, let alone spent any time in prison. 

    These acquittals must now be followed by the immediate release of Osman Kavala and the other four Gezi prisoners of conscience who remain behind bars

    “Their unfair prosecution – and that of the other five Gezi Park defendants – not only resulted in grave violations of their rights, but also became a shameful example of the way in which Türkiye’s justice system is used as a tool of political repression.  

    “Their acquittals must now be followed by the immediate release of Osman Kavala and the other four Gezi prisoners of conscience who remain behind bars.”

    Speaking to Amnesty International, Mücella Yapıcı said: “It is very hard to feel happy when all others are still behind bars. Why are they still imprisoned when they are as innocent as us? I want to thank everyone who stood by us and supported us during this thoroughly unfair prosecution.” 

    Background  

    See here for information about the prosecutions of Mücella Yapıcı, Hakan Altınay, Yiğit Ekmekçi, Çiğdem Mater, Tayfun Kahraman, Mine Özerden, Can Atalay and Osman Kavala.

    Osman Kavala remains in prison despite two binding European Court of Human Rights judgments. Can Atalay remains behind bars despite two equally binding Constitutional Court rulings which remain unimplemented.  

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cassidy Leads Effort to Prevent Liberal States from Forcing Americans to Subsidize Free Health Care for Illegal Immigrants

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA), Roger Wicker (R-MS), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), and John Barrasso (R-WY) introduced the Protect Medicaid Act to ensure the long-term integrity of Medicaid by preventing liberal states like California from forcing American citizens in other states to subsidize Medicaid benefits for illegal immigrants. The bill prohibits federal money from being spent on administering state Medicaid benefits paid for by American citizens to noncitizens. If a state chooses to give Medicaid benefits to illegal residents, the bill ensures that state does so entirely on its own dime, without any costs to taxpayers in other states. U.S. Representative Richard Hudson (R-NC-09) introduced the companion legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives.
    “Working as a doctor in California, I saw that free health care is a magnet for illegal immigration,” said Dr. Cassidy. “We should focus on making America healthy again instead of straining our medical system and burdening American taxpayers. Attempting to provide free health care to the world is not sustainable. Compassion that cannot be sustained is not compassion.”
    “The American people have made it clear that they want their hard-earned tax dollars to work for them, not those who are in our country illegally. I’m proud to once again support this bill that ensures Medicaid funds only benefit American taxpayers and sends a strong message to sanctuary states that they need to foot the bill if they want to extend Medicaid to illegal immigrants,” said Senator Hyde-Smith.
    “Handouts from Democrats have attracted millions of illegal immigrants to come and take advantage of free health care paid for by American taxpayers,” said Senator Barrasso. “Our bill keeps liberal states from forcing hardworking Americans to foot the bill for Medicaid for illegal immigrants. Senate Republicans are committed to working with President Trump to end radical policies that fail to secure our border and keep our communities safe.”
    “Providing taxpayer-funded Medicaid to illegal immigrants is against the law and further incentivizes more illegal crossings at our border,” said Representative Hudson. “Worse, it hurts elderly, disabled, and vulnerable Americans who depend on the program. We must stop liberal states from forcing American taxpayers to foot the bill for illegals’ healthcare costs and ensure we are taking care of our citizens.”
    Federal law already bars illegal immigrants from receiving Medicaid, but states like California get around federal law by using complex budgeting gimmicks to extend Medicaid benefits to illegal immigrants.
    This means Medicaid patients have a harder time getting appointments and receiving care. And like every state, California faces a shortage of primary care providers. As of December 2024, the state needed 971 additional primary care providers to meet the current need. California has 633 designated Primary Care Health Professional Shortage Areas, which is by far the highest in the country. The next highest state has 373 shortage areas.
    The Protect Medicaid Act also requires the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Office of Inspector General (OIG) to review and report on:
    How states that provide Medicaid services to illegal immigrants keep federal and state dollars separate.
    Whether states providing health benefits to illegal immigrants use gimmicks that rip off the federal government, like provider taxes and intergovernmental transfers, to launder federal dollars to offset the cost of providing benefits to this population.
    Whether people in the country illegally benefit from covered outpatient drugs purchased under the Medicaid Drug Rebate Program and the 340B program, and whether this impacts the prices American citizens pay. 
    Background
    In 2024, Cassidy discussed the many issues associated with Medicare for illegal immigrants on Fox News’ America’s Newsroom. Watch the segment here.
    Cassidy introduced this bill in the 116th and 118th Congress to prevent taxpayer resources from paying for free health care for illegal immigrants.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Preventing and responding to gender-based violence | Prévenir et combattre la violence sexiste

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    While the strategy is in development, Alberta’s government is investing $15.7 million during 2024-25 to help prevent gender-based violence and support survivors. The funding builds on existing annual investments of more than $150 million across the Government of Alberta that deliver critical programs and services to support survivors.

    “As we finalize Alberta’s 10-year Strategy to End Gender-based Violence, we are not waiting to take action. We are making targeted investments to prevent gender-based violence in all its forms while providing support to survivors.”

    Tanya Fir, Minister of Arts, Culture and Status of Women

    This investment includes an additional $7.2 million to Children and Family Services with $3 million this year to support shelter resources in communities across the province. Funding women’s emergency shelters is one of the ways that Alberta’s government supports Albertans seeking safety from violence and abuse.

    In addition to providing emergency accommodations, women’s shelters offer a wide range of other services and supports. This includes outreach services and help accessing other resources. To support the valuable work of women’s emergency shelters, Alberta’s government is providing almost $57 million in 2024-25.

    “All vulnerable Albertans deserve to live free from family violence and domestic abuse. By investing a portion of the funding towards women’s shelters, Alberta’s government remains steadfast in its commitment to increase funding by $10 million over four years to ensure that survivors are protected and supported.”

    Searle Turton, Minister of Children and Family Services

    “Everyone deserves to live free from violence, and survivors of gender-based violence deserve compassionate, timely and meaningful support. Through the National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence, we are investing in life-changing initiatives in Alberta that provide critical services and protection to those at risk and affected by violence. This is a testament to what we can achieve when governments and communities come together – building a safer, more inclusive and more equitable Alberta for everyone.”

    Marci Ien, federal minister for Women and Gender Equality and Youth

    “It is vital to have strong shelter resources available to meet the needs of survivors of domestic violence. By investing in women’s shelters and family violence prevention, Alberta’s government is ensuring that vulnerable Albertans will be able to access the supports they need.”

    Catherine Champagne, executive director, Alberta Council of Women’s Shelters

    “As demand for services grows, especially in rural communities where supports can be limited, this investment helps Rowan House Society provide essential shelter and community-based services. When survivors have a safe place to turn, they can begin rebuilding their lives – creating a stronger, safer community for everyone. We are grateful for this support as we continue working to ensure no one faces violence and abuse alone.”

    Linette Soldan, executive director, Rowan House

    The funding is part of Alberta’s $54-million bilateral agreement with the federal government.

    Quick facts

    • Funding for 2024-25 bilateral funding was distributed to support initiatives across the Government of Alberta to systemically address gender-based violence, such as:
    • Women’s shelter programming to focus on access to safety, inclusive services and supports, as well as to support projects and initiatives that prevent family violence including targeted grants for community capacity building, prevention and Indigenous-led initiatives.
    • Reporting and prevention efforts at post-secondary institutions and First Nations colleges to address campus sexual violence.
    • Strengthening support for Albertans navigating the justice system, including developing more survivor-centered, culturally sensitive, trauma-informed services.
    • Increasing access to education and resources related to elder abuse.
    • Supporting academic research on gender-related injury and illness in the workplace.
    • Implementing Indigenous-led initiatives that advance the Alberta Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls Roadmap.
    • Gender-based violence refers to harmful acts directed at an individual based on their gender. It can take many forms, including physical assault, sexual assault, murder, femicide, family violence, intimate partner violence, human trafficking, stalking, financial control, threats, hate speech, cyber-bullying, cyber-stalking, pornography and coercive control.
    • As of 2023, Alberta was identified as having the sixth highest per capita rate of police-reported sexual assault among other provinces.

    Related information

    • Family Violence Prevention Grant Program
    • Gender-based violence prevention
    • Women’s Hub
    • Increasing safety for Indigenous women, girls and 2S+ people

    Multimedia

    • Watch the news conference

    Le gouvernement de l’Alberta continue d’investir des fonds supplémentaires pour lutter contre la violence sexiste, la prévenir et soutenir les personnes survivantes dans la province. 

    La violence fondée sur le genre est un problème grave, et le gouvernement de l’Alberta s’emploie activement à élaborer sa stratégie décennale exhaustive pour y mettre fin en menant de vastes consultations auprès de centaines d’Albertaines, d’Albertains et d’organismes de la province.

    De concert avec l’élaboration de la stratégie, le gouvernement de l’Alberta investit 15,7 millions de dollars au cours de la l’année financière 2024-2025 pour prévenir la violence fondée sur le genre et soutenir les survivantes et survivants. Ce financement s’ajoute aux investissements annuels de plus de 150 millions de dollars dans les ministères du gouvernement de l’Alberta, qui offrent des programmes et des services essentiels pour soutenir les survivantes et survivants.

    « Nous n’attendons pas de terminer la stratégie décennale de l’Alberta pour agir et mettre fin à la violence fondée sur le genre. Nous faisons des investissements ciblés pour prévenir cette violence sous toutes ses formes et nous apportons du soutien aux survivantes et survivants. »

    Tanya Fir, ministre des Arts, de la Culture et de la Condition féminine

    Cet investissement comprend un montant supplémentaire de 7,2 millions de dollars au ministère des Services à l’enfance et à la famille, dont 3 millions de dollars servent cette année à soutenir les refuges de la province. Le financement des refuges d’urgence pour femmes est l’un des moyens dont le gouvernement s’est doté pour aider les Albertaines à se mettre à l’abri de la violence et des mauvais traitements.

    En plus de fournir un hébergement d’urgence, les refuges pour femmes offrent un vaste éventail de services et de mesures de soutien, notamment des services de proximité et des services d’aide à la recherche d’autres ressources. En 2024-2025, le gouvernement de l’Alberta fournira près de 57 millions de dollars pour soutenir le travail important réalisé dans les refuges d’urgence pour femmes.

    « En Alberta, toutes les personnes vulnérables méritent de vivre à l’abri de la violence familiale et de la maltraitance conjugale. En investissant une partie du financement dans les refuges pour femmes, le gouvernement de l’Alberta respecte son engagement d’augmenter le financement de 10 millions de dollars sur quatre ans pour garantir la protection et le soutien des survivantes et des survivants. »

    Searle Turton, ministre des Services à l’enfance et à la famille

    « Tout le monde mérite de vivre à l’abri de la violence, et les survivantes de la violence sexiste méritent d’être soutenues avec compassion, en temps opportun et de manière significative. Dans le cadre du Plan d’action national pour mettre fin à la violence fondée sur le sexe, nous investissons dans des initiatives qui changent la vie en Alberta et qui offrent des services et une protection essentiels aux personnes menacées et touchées par la violence. Ce plan témoigne de ce que nous pouvons accomplir lorsque, en tant que gouvernements et communautés, nous nous unissons pour bâtir une Alberta plus sûre, plus inclusive et plus équitable pour tout le monde. »

    Marci Ien, ministre fédérale des Femmes et de l’Égalité des genres et de la Jeunesse

    « Il est essentiel de disposer de refuges sûrs pour répondre aux besoins des survivantes de la violence domestique. En investissant dans les refuges pour femmes et la prévention de la violence familiale, le gouvernement de l’Alberta veille à ce que les Albertaines vulnérables puissent avoir accès au soutien dont elles ont besoin. »

    Catherine Champagne, directrice générale de l’Alberta Council of Women’s Shelters

    « Alors que la demande de services augmente, en particulier dans les collectivités rurales où les services de soutien sont parfois limités, cet investissement aide la Rowan House Society à fournir de l’hébergement et des services communautaires essentiels. Lorsque les survivantes ont un endroit sûr vers lequel se tourner, elles peuvent commencer à refaire leur vie, ce qui rend leur communauté plus forte et plus sûre pour tout le monde. Nous sommes reconnaissants de ce financement et continuons à travailler pour que personne ne soit confronté seul à la violence et à la maltraitance. »

    Linette Soldan, directrice générale, Rowan House 

    Le financement fait partie de l’accord bilatéral de 54 millions de dollars conclu entre l’Alberta et le gouvernement fédéral.

    En bref

    • Le financement bilatéral de 2024-2025 a été distribué pour soutenir des initiatives de lutte systématique contre la violence fondée sur le genre dans l’ensemble du gouvernement de l’Alberta. Voici quelques-unes de ces initiatives :
    • La programmation des refuges pour femmes, qui met l’accent sur l’accès à la sécurité, aux services inclusifs et aux mesures de soutien, et qui appuie les projets et les initiatives de prévention de la violence familiale, y compris les subventions ciblées sur les initiatives liées au renforcement des capacités communautaires et à la prévention, et aux projets dirigés par les Autochtones.
    • Le signalement et la prévention dans les établissements d’enseignement postsecondaire et les collèges des Premières Nations pour lutter contre la violence sexuelle sur les campus.
    • L’amélioration du soutien aux Albertaines qui parcourent le système judiciaire, notamment grâce à la création de services mieux adaptés aux besoins des survivantes et de services qui tiennent compte des différences culturelles et des traumatismes vécus.
    • L’amélioration de l’accès à l’éducation et aux ressources liées à la maltraitance des personnes âgées.
    • Le soutien à la recherche universitaire sur les blessures et les maladies liées au sexe sur le lieu de travail.
    • La mise en œuvre d’initiatives autochtones qui font progresser la feuille de route de l’Alberta sur les femmes et les filles autochtones disparues et assassinées.
    • La violence sexiste désigne les actes préjudiciables dirigés contre une personne en raison de son genre. Elle peut prendre de nombreuses formes, notamment l’agression physique, l’agression sexuelle, le meurtre, le féminicide, la violence familiale, la violence entre partenaires intimes, la traite de personnes, le harcèlement, le contrôle financier, les menaces, le discours haineux, la cyberintimidation, le cyberharcèlement, la pornographie et le contrôle coercitif.
    • En 2023, l’Alberta était au sixième rang des provinces ayant le taux le plus élevé d’agressions sexuelles déclarées à la police par habitant.

    Renseignements connexes

    • Programme de subvention pour la prévention de la violence familiale (en anglais seulement)
    • Prévention de la violence fondée sur le sexe
    • Carrefour des femmes (en anglais seulement)
    • Amélioration de la sécurité des femmes, des filles et des personnes 2S+ autochtones (en anglais seulement)

    Multimédia

    • Regarder la conférence de presse

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Property solution for Wellington Girls’ College

    Source: New Zealand Government

    The Government is providing Wellington Girls’ College certainty by confirming funding for the school’s long-term property solution.
    “Cabinet has approved funding for the next stage of the school’s redevelopment. It will deliver safe, warm and dry learning environments that will ensure Wellington Girls’ College continues to deliver a world-leading education for generations to come,” Education Minister Erica Stanford says.
    The next stage will deliver:

    A new two-storey building to deliver replacement classrooms and administration/resource space.
    A new replacement school hall.
    Earthquake strengthening works on Brook Block.
    Relocation of some of the modular classrooms on the school field and two-storey modulars to their permanent location to deliver new classrooms as part of this next stage of the project.
    Reinstatement of the school field.
    Removal of the end-of-life prefabricated classrooms that will no longer be required.

    This stage is on top of the investment to deliver one and two-storey modular classrooms, strengthening works on the Pipitea Block, and delivering covered courts. The new two-storey building and relocated modulars will deliver around 20 classrooms for the school. The total investment across both previous and future works is around $100 million.
    “This Government is developing a more efficient and sustainable solution for how we deliver school property. It is our expectation the Ministry of Education prioritises repeatable and modular buildings and is transparent when communicating with schools throughout the planning process.
    “The new two-storey modular classrooms delivered ahead of Term 1 are a great example of what we can do when we focus on speed, innovation, and working collaboratively with the market, and I expect to see more of this approach across the country.”
    Work is expected to begin on the new two-storey building and hall in 2026. Work on Pipitea Block is already underway and is expected to be completed mid-2025. Strengthening of Brook Block and other redevelopment works are planned to begin onsite by the end of 2025.
    “Improving education infrastructure is an important part of laying the foundation for New Zealanders to succeed. This Government is committed to delivering just that,” Ms Stanford says.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Takahē released to grow wild population

    Source: Department of Conservation

    Date:  12 February 2025

    After travelling from Burwood Takahē Centre near Te Anau and Orokonui Ecosanctuary Dunedin, takahē rangers paused briefly at Glenorchy Primary School for children to wave the birds on to the release site.

    Mana whenua Ngāi Tahu welcomed takahē with a mihi whakatau before they were released.

    The decision to release takahē into the Rees Valley was made after takahē released into Greenstone Valley in 2023 showed early signs of successfully adjusting to their new environment – raising offspring and remaining in a healthy condition.

    Thought to be extinct for 50 years, takahē are a taonga of Ngāi Tahu, unique to New Zealand and the largest flightless species of rail bird in the world. They were famously rediscovered in the Murchison Mountains in 1948.

    DOC’s Takahē Recovery Senior Ranger Glen Greaves says existing wild sites in the Murchison Mountains and the Greenstone Valley are reaching capacity, so the focus is now on establishing more wild populations elsewhere.

    “Finding wild sites with the right habitat, and with predator numbers low enough for takahē to thrive is a challenge – but the Greenstone, Rees, and wider Whakatipu areas likely provide high-quality habitat for takahē.”

    Glen says predator control has been a significant factor in ensuring the translocation can go ahead. However, like other large wild sites, predator threats and dispersal into less-protected areas remain.

    “Setting up new wild populations takes perseverance, and success is not guaranteed,” says Glen.

    “We hope people walking the Rees-Dart track and Routeburn tracks will soon have a good chance of seeing takahē thriving in their natural wild habitat.”

    Ngāi Tahu representative on the Takahē Recovery Group, Gail Thompson says the release of takahē into the Rees Valley is a welcome next step towards the goal of increasing the number of takahē roaming free in the wild.

    “It is my hope the manu will thrive in this valley as they have so far in the Greenstone Valley and that current and future generations will have the opportunity to see takahē in their natural environment.

    “Our tīpuna inhabited the valley to the west of Puahiri/Puahere awa/Rees River and this whenua was part of a well-known network of ara tawhito/trails to pounamu sources. It is heartening that these takahē can now make this place their home,” says Gail.

    Today the total takahē population is more than 500 and growing at about five percent a year. More than half the birds now live at wild sites.

    Kaiwhakahaere/co-chair of Southern Lakes Sanctuary, Greg Lind, says their organisation’s work has been to prepare the Rees Valley for takahē to hopefully thrive upon their return to this special area.

    “We have been servicing a network of more than 500 traps in suitable takahē habitats and have been focused on intensive feral cat control,” says Greg.

    “This takahē release is a great example of the power of collaboration, with each party making vital contributions to make this a reality. This includes everyone from donors, iwi, landowners, community groups and DOC.”

    A further two takahē releases into the Rees Valley are planned for later this year, with the aim of establishing a population of up to 80 takahē in the Rees Valley in 2025.

    DOC’s Takahē Recovery Programme, supported by National Partner Fulton Hogan and New Zealand Nature Fund, together with Ngāi Tahu and Southern Lakes Sanctuary have been working together to create one large self-sustaining population of takahē in the Upper Whakatipu – with the shared goal of restoring takahē to whenua they likely inhabited centuries ago. 

    Acknowledgments

    Ngāi Tahu

    Takahē have special cultural, spiritual, and traditional significance to Ngāi Tahu. Ngāi Tahu value takahē as a taonga (treasure) and continue to act as kaitiaki (guardians) of takahē by working with DOC to protect this precious species.

    Seven of the 18 Ngāi Tahu Papatipu Rūnanga have a shared interest in and around Whakatipu Waimāori, Tāhuna and the inland Ōtākou region. Those seven rūnanga are: Te Rūnanga o Moeraki, Kāti Huirapa Rūnaka ki Puketeraki, Te Rūnanga o Ōtākou, Hokonui Rūnanga, Oraka Aparima Rūnaka, Te Rūnaka o Awarua and Waihōpai Rūnaka. The release had their full support.

    DOC and the Takahē Recovery Programme

    Fulton Hogan joined with DOC as a national partner to the Takahē Recovery Programme in July 2016. The New Zealand Nature Fund has a long-standing association with the programme and joined the DOC and Fulton Hogan partnership in July 2016, providing administration and advocacy support. DOC and the Takahē Recovery Programme are also supported by Air New Zealand, and 18 sanctuary sites throughout the country that provide safe breeding places for takahē to grow their numbers to feed into wild sites.

    Southern Lakes Sanctuary

    The Southern Lakes Sanctuary Trust is a consortium of six local groups that collectively represent 84 community groups, landowners, and businesses, who in turn have been working for many years to protect and restore the declining biodiversity of the Southern Lakes region. The consortium relies on the mahi of hundreds of committed and dedicated volunteers, throughout the district. Their tireless work, which has been quietly ploughing on for many years, is the foundation upon which the Southern Lakes Sanctuary is built. The group’s extensive predator trapping work in the Rees Valley has been supported by RealNZ, Impact100, Lotteries, Stout Trust, Patagonia, QLDC, CLT, AJ Hackett Bungy New Zealand and Heli Glenorchy.

    Takahē thrive in new wild home on Ngāi Tahu whenua in Ōtākou/Otago: Media release 15 August 2024

    Contact

    For media enquiries contact:

    Email: media@doc.govt.nz

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NASA’s Mini Rover Team Is Packed for Lunar Journey

    Source: NASA

    [embedded content]
    A team at JPL packed up three small Moon rovers, delivering them in February to the facility where they’ll be attached to a commercial lunar lander in preparation for launch. The rovers are part of a project called CADRE that could pave the way for potential future multirobot missions.. NASA/JPL-Caltech

    A trio of suitcase-size rovers and their base station have been carefully wrapped up and shipped off to join the lander that will deliver them to the Moon’s surface.
    Three small NASA rovers that will explore the lunar surface as a team have been packed up and shipped from the agency’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Southern California, marking completion of the first leg of the robots’ journey to the Moon.
    The rovers are part of a technology demonstration called CADRE (Cooperative Autonomous Distributed Robotic Exploration), which aims to show that a group of robots can collaborate to gather data without receiving direct commands from mission controllers on Earth. They’ll use their cameras and ground-penetrating radars to send back imagery of the lunar surface and subsurface while testing out the novel software that enables them to work together autonomously.
    The CADRE rovers will launch to the Moon aboard IM-3, Intuitive Machines’ third lunar delivery, which has a mission window that extends into early 2026, as part of NASA’s CLPS (Commercial Lunar Payload Services) initiative. Once installed on Intuitive Machines’ Nova-C lander, they’ll head to the Reiner Gamma region on the western edge of the Moon’s near side, where the solar-powered, suitcase-size rovers will spend the daylight hours of a lunar day (the equivalent of about 14 days on Earth) carrying out experiments. The success of CADRE could pave the way for potential future missions with teams of autonomous robots supporting astronauts and spreading out to take simultaneous, distributed scientific measurements.

    Construction of the CADRE hardware — along with a battery of rigorous tests to prove readiness for the journey through space — was completed in February 2024.
    To get prepared for shipment to Intuitive Machines’ Houston facility, each rover was attached to its deployer system, which will lower it via tether from the lander onto the dusty lunar surface. Engineers flipped each rover-deployer pair over and attached it to an aluminum plate for safe transit. The rovers were then sealed in protective metal-frame enclosures that were fitted snuggly into metal shipping containers and loaded onto a truck. The hardware arrived safely on Sunday, Feb. 9.
    “Our small team worked incredibly hard constructing these robots and putting them to the test, and we have been eagerly waiting for the moment where we finally see them on their way,” said Coleman Richdale, the team’s assembly, test, and launch operations lead at JPL. “We are all genuinely thrilled to be taking this next step in our journey to the Moon, and we can’t wait to see the lunar surface through CADRE’s eyes.”
    The rovers, the base station, and a camera system that will monitor CADRE experiments on the Moon will be integrated with the lander — as will several other NASA payloads — in preparation for the launch of the IM-3 mission.
    More About CADRE
    A division of Caltech in Pasadena, California, JPL manages CADRE for the Game Changing Development program within NASA’s Space Technology Mission Directorate. The technology demonstration was selected under the agency’s Lunar Surface Innovation Initiative, which was established to expedite the development of technologies for sustained presence on the lunar surface. NASA’s Science Mission Directorate manages the CLPS initiative. The agency’s Glenn Research Center in Cleveland and its Ames Research Center in Silicon Valley, California, both supported the project. Motiv Space Systems designed and built key hardware elements at the company’s Pasadena facility. Clemson University in South Carolina contributed research in support of the project.
    For more about CADRE, go to:
    https://go.nasa.gov/cadre
    News Media Contact
    Melissa PamerJet Propulsion Laboratory, Pasadena, Calif.626-314-4928melissa.pamer@jpl.nasa.gov
    2025-018

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NASA’s X-59 Turns Up Power, Throttles Through Engine Tests

    Source: NASA

    NASA’s X-59 quiet supersonic research aircraft took another successful step toward flight with the conclusion of a series of engine performance tests.
    In preparation for the X-59’s planned first flight this year, NASA and Lockheed Martin successfully completed the aircraft’s engine run tests in January. The engine, a modified F414-GE-100 that powers the aircraft’s flight and integrated subsystems, performed to expectations during three increasingly complicated tests that ran from October through January at contractor Lockheed Martin’s Skunk Works facility in Palmdale, California.
    “We have successfully progressed through our engine ground tests as we planned,” said Raymond Castner, X-59 propulsion lead at NASA’s Glenn Research Center in Cleveland. “We had no major showstoppers. We were getting smooth and steady airflow as predicted from wind tunnel testing. We didn’t have any structural or excessive vibration issues. And parts of the engine and aircraft that needed cooling were getting it.”
    The tests began with seeing how the aircraft’s hydraulics, electrical, and environmental control systems performed when the engine was powered up but idling. The team then performed throttle checks, bringing the aircraft up to full power and firing its afterburner – an engine component that generates additional thrust – to maximum.

    [embedded content]
    In preparation for the X-59’s planned first flight this year, NASA and Lockheed Martin successfully completed the aircraft’s engine run tests in January. Testing included electrical, hydraulics, and environmental control systems.Credit: NASA/Lillianne Hammel 

    A third test, throttle snaps, involved moving the throttle swiftly back and forth to validate that the engine responds instantly. The engine produces as much as 22,000 pounds of thrust to achieve a desired cruising speed of Mach 1.4 (925 miles per hour) at an altitude of approximately 55,000 feet.
    The X-59’s engine, similar to those aboard the U.S. Navy’s F-18 Super Hornet, is mounted on top of the aircraft to reduce the level of noise reaching the ground. Many features of the X-59, including its 38-foot-long nose, are designed to lower the noise of a sonic boom to that of a mere “thump,” similar to the sound of a car door slamming nearby.
    Next steps before first flight will include evaluating the X-59 for potential electromagnetic interference effects, as well as “aluminum bird” testing, during which data will be fed to the aircraft under both normal and failure conditions. A series of taxi tests and other preparations will also take place before the first flight.
    The X-59 is the centerpiece of NASA’s Quesst mission, which seeks to solve one of the major barriers to commercial supersonic flight over land by making sonic booms quieter.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sen. Mangham: A Warm Welcome to the 2025 Legislative Session 

    Source: US State of Georgia

    We’re now a quarter of the way through the 2025 Legislative Session, and every day under the Gold Dome, I am reminded why I fight for the people of the 55th Senate District. We began the legislative session on Monday, January 13, and we have hit the ground running with committee meetings, bill hearings and debates. This week marked a major turning point as committees met to take up some of our state’s most pressing issues, from education to healthcare to economic opportunity.

    Over the remaining 30 legislative days, I’m committed to fighting for policies that create a more equitable and inclusive Georgia for all its residents. I am honored to serve on the Senate Committees on Banking and Financial Institutions, Health and Human Services, Interstate Cooperation, Retirement, State and Local Governmental Operations, and MARTOC where we will address pressing issues that affect all Georgians.

    During our first week of session, Governor Brian Kemp delivered his annual State of the State address to a joint session of the Senate and House chambers. While we may not always agree, I look forward to working on areas where we can find common ground, including pay raises for teachers, state employees and first responders, as well as efforts to strengthen our healthcare workforce. Georgia must ensure that every resident has access to affordable healthcare, expand opportunities for quality public education, invest in renewable energy solutions, and address the growing need for affordable housing. These priorities are critical for building a more prosperous and equitable Georgia.

    In January, the Senate Democratic Caucus announced several key legislative priorities for this session. We introduced Senate Bill 50, a bipartisan effort to close health insurance gaps, expand access to mental health and maternal care and ensure working families can afford quality healthcare. Too many Georgians rely on emergency rooms for primary care because they lack affordable insurance. Healthcare should be a right, not a privilege, and we will continue advocating for policies that lower costs and expand coverage. In the coming weeks, our caucus will introduce bills to raise the state minimum wage, strengthen public schools, and improve access to affordable childcare.

    Beyond legislative work, it has been an honor to welcome so many incredible Georgians to the Capitol. Last month, we welcomed members of the Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce to celebrate the economic achievements of businesses in our district. Gwinnett is a vibrant hub of innovation and growth, and I am proud to support policies that strengthen our local economy. This week, we honored Rosa Parks and her legacy. Her courage and activism sparked the civil rights movement, and we remain deeply grateful for her contributions to justice and equality.

    I also want to encourage students between 12 and 18 to apply for the Senate Page Program. This is a unique opportunity for young people to see how our government operates firsthand. I highly encourage students who are passionate about civic engagement to apply. You can find more details here.

    With the clock ticking for the remainder of the 2025 Session, I promise to keep fighting for a more just and equitable Georgia. I am grateful for your trust, and I urge you to stay engaged. Call, email, or visit my office with questions or concerns.

    # # # #

    Sen. Randal Mangham represents the 55th Senate District which includes portions of Gwinnett and Dekalb County. He may be reached by phone at (404) 657-4640 or by email at Randal.Mangham@senate.ga.gov.

    For all media inquiries, please reach out to SenatePressInquiries@senate.ga.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Combating Homelessness on Staten Island

    Source: US State of New York

    Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the launch of a new Safe Options Support or “SOS” team to help bring stability to individuals who are experiencing chronic homelessness on Staten Island, including those with mental health and substance use challenges. With this expansion, the successful SOS program — which has now placed over 680 people in New York City in permanent housing — is now up and running in each of New York City’s five boroughs.

    “The Safe Options Support program has been a resounding success since its launch two years ago, providing services to individuals experiencing homelessness — including many who live with mental illness — and helping them to secure permanent housing,” Governor Hochul said. “By expanding this effort to Staten Island, we can help more New Yorkers connect with the support they can rely on to bring lasting stability in their lives.”

    OMH Commissioner Dr. Ann Sullivan said, “The Safe Options Support teams operating in New York City and throughout the state are helping to connect chronically unsheltered homeless individuals living with mental illness with the supports and services they can rely on to secure permanent housing. Breaking Ground’s new team is now canvassing areas throughout Staten Island, engaging individuals and helping them onto the path to lasting stability. The expansion of this program to all five boroughs reflects Governor Hochul’s continued support for these teams and how this unique program continues to change lives for the better.”

    State Senator Jessica Scarcella-Spanton said, “Bringing the Safe Options Support (SOS) team to Staten Island is a step in the right direction. Communities across New York City have struggled with chronic homelessness, particularly mental health crises and substance use, for far too long, and this program offers real solutions. Expanding SOS to Staten Island means providing our most vulnerable and at-risk residents with the support and stability they need while also promoting public safety. The program’s proven success in other boroughs speaks volumes, and I am confident this initiative will make a meaningful difference in my district.”

    Assemblymember Charles Fall said, “As someone who sees firsthand the struggles of those facing homelessness on Staten Island, I know how life-changing programs like Safe Options Support can be. Expanding this program to our borough means more individuals will get the outreach, care and permanent housing they desperately need. I commend Governor Hochul for recognizing the importance and urgency of bringing this support to Staten Island. My office remains committed to working with local partners to ensure everyone has the stability and dignity they deserve.”

    Richmond County District Attorney Michael McMahon said, “As Staten Island’s chief law enforcement officer, I understand the fundamental and intrinsic link between mental illness, chronic homelessness, extreme poverty, substance abuse and crime. Simply put, if we want to end the revolving door of recidivism plaguing our State, we must do more to connect those struggling to treatment, services, housing and additional supportive resources. I commend Governor Hochul for expanding this successful program by launching a dedicated and full-time Safe Options Support or ‘SOS’ team to Staten Island whose primary mission it will be to conduct outreach to our borough’s most vulnerable populations. The men and women of my office are eager and ready to assist in any way we can and we look forward to working in partnership with Staten Island’s new ‘SOS” team to ensure that residents in the throes of homelessness, mental illness, and substance abuse are given the support they need to thrive and change their lives for the better and so that our transit hubs are made safer for all Staten Islanders.”

    Breaking Ground Chief Operating Officer Amie Pospisil said, “We are dedicated to helping people get off the streets, restore their dignity and find stability in housing. The launch of Safe Options Support teams for Staten Island will ensure that more unsheltered New Yorkers get connected to the services and housing they need to transform their lives. We are grateful to Governor Hochul and the New York State Office of Mental Health for investing in solutions that work for our vulnerable neighbors.”

    The team canvasses several areas including the Staten Island Ferry and its terminals, the Staten Island Railway and its trains and platforms.

    New York City now has 16 SOS teams operating in the five boroughs. These teams canvas the subways and transit locations and have so far helped 682 individuals find permanent homes, including 134 who are living in OMH-licensed housing.

    The SOS program uses Critical Time Intervention, an evidence-based practice that helps connect vulnerable individuals in crisis to housing and supports, including critical mental health services. Teams work with individuals experiencing homelessness to strengthen their skills and support network so that they can be successfully housed, and their care can be transferred to community-based providers.

    Services are provided for up to 12 months, pre- and post-housing placement, with an intensive initial outreach and engagement period that includes multiple visits per week. OMH coordinates with the MTA, New York City’s Department of Homeless Services, and other organizations to identify priority stations based upon reported density and level of need.

    Initially provided $25 million in the FY 2023 State Budget, Governor Hochul expanded funding for the SOS teams to nearly $34 million last year, and then $35.2 million in FY 2025. This has allowed the program to grow beyond the first teams established in New York City in 2022 to incorporate teams in upstate New York and one on Long Island.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Jeffersonville Bancorp Announces Fourth Quarter and Record Full Year Earnings of $11,330,000 or $2.68 per share; Declares Dividend of $0.15

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    JEFFERSONVILLE, N.Y., Feb. 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Jeffersonville Bancorp, Inc. (OTCQB – JFBC) announced today net income for the year ended December 31, 2024 was $11,330,000 or $2.68 per share compared to $11,175,000 or $2.64 per share for the same period in 2023. This represents an increase of $155,000. The increase in full year net income was primarily attributable to an increase in loan interest and fees of $1,679,000 and an increase in unrealized gain on securities of $184,000. These gains were partially offset by a decrease in securities and other interest and dividends of $591,000, an increase in interest expense of $575,000, and an increase in total non-interest expenses of $903,000 compared to the same period in 2023. Other items affecting comparative results were a one-time realized loss on securities of $785,000 partially offset by a one-time negative provision for credit losses of $527,000 recorded in 2023.

    Net income for the fourth quarter was $2,654,000 or $0.63 per share compared to $2,347,000 or $0.56 per share for the same quarter in 2023. The increase in quarterly net income compared to 2023 of $307,000 was primarily attributable to a decrease in interest expense of $563,000 and a decrease in credit loss expense of $205,000, partially offset by a decrease in interest and dividend income of $274,000, an increase in total non-interest expense of $134,000, and an increase in tax expense of $75,000.

    “I am very pleased to report that our full year results represented the third consecutive year of record earnings for the Company,” said George W. Kinne, Jr., President and CEO. “Jeff Bank’s return on assets (ROA) was the third highest of publicly traded banks in New York State and 53% higher than the average of all 1,297 insured commercial banks in the United States with assets between $300 million and $1 billion in 2024. This is owing in large part to the Company’s strong core deposit base, which limited our use, and by the end of the year, the elimination of expensive wholesale funding. We accomplished this while maintaining a leverage capital ratio of 13.87%, which is 20-30% higher than the average of those peers.”

    A cash dividend in the amount of fifteen cents ($0.15) per share on the common stock of the company was declared at the February 11, 2025 meeting of the Board of Directors. The dividend is payable on March 5, 2025 to stockholders of record at the close of business on February 25, 2025.

    Jeffersonville Bancorp is a one-bank holding company, which owns all the capital stock of Jeff Bank. Jeff Bank maintains ten full-service branches in Sullivan and Orange County, New York located in Anawana Lake Road/Monticello, Eldred, Callicoon, Jeffersonville, Liberty, Livingston Manor, Monticello, Port Jervis, White Lake, and Wurtsboro.

    For More Information, call: 845-482-4000

    Contact: George W. Kinne, Jr., President – CEO

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Ninepoint 2023 Flow-Through Limited Partnership and Ninepoint 2023 Short Duration Flow-Through Limited Partnership Announce Completion of Rollover Transaction

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, Feb. 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Ninepoint 2023 Flow-Through Limited Partnership (the “2023 Partnership”) and Ninepoint 2023 Short Duration Flow-Through Limited Partnership (the “2023-II Partnership”, and together with the 2023 Partnership, the “Partnerships” and each a “Partnership”), announced today that the Partnerships had completed the tax-deferred transfer of the assets (the “Mutual Fund Rollover Transaction”) into Ninepoint Resource Fund Class (the “Resource Class”) of Ninepoint Corporate Fund Inc., as discussed in the Partnerships’ press release of November 29, 2024.

    Rollover of the 2023 Partnership

    2,198,945 Series A shares of the Resource Class were issued at their net asset value of $6.532098 per share. The final net asset value per Partnership Class A unit for purposes of the Mutual Fund Rollover Transaction was $13.346805 per Partnership unit. Accordingly, each holder of Partnership Class A units will receive 2.043263 Resource Class Series A shares for each Partnership Class A unit held. The adjusted cost base for each Partnership Class A unit was $12.203250 per Partnership unit and the adjusted cost base for each allocated Resource Class Series A share was $5.972432 per share.  

    542,384 Series F shares of the Resource Class were issued at their net asset value of $6.754320 per share. The final net asset value per Partnership Class F unit for purposes of the Mutual Fund Rollover Transaction was $13.969593 per Partnership unit. Accordingly, each holder of Partnership Class F units will receive 2.068245 Resource Class Series F shares for each Partnership Class F unit held. The adjusted cost base for each Partnership Class F unit was $13.149000 per Partnership unit and the adjusted cost base for each allocated Resource Class Series F share was $6.357564 per share.  

    Rollover of the 2023-II Partnership

    1,640,398 Series A shares of the Resource Class were issued at their net asset value of $6.532098 per share. The final net asset value per Partnership Class A unit for purposes of the Mutual Fund Rollover Transaction was $17.343500 per Partnership unit. Accordingly, each holder of Partnership Class A units will receive 2.655118 Resource Class Series A shares for each Partnership Class A unit held. The adjusted cost base for each Partnership Class A unit was $12.361822 per Partnership unit and the adjusted cost base for each allocated Resource Class Series A share was $4.655847 per share.  

    520,050 Series F shares of the Resource Class were issued at their net asset value of $6.754320 per share. The final net asset value per Partnership Class F unit for purposes of the Mutual Fund Rollover Transaction was $18.009390 per Partnership unit. Accordingly, each holder of Partnership Class F units will receive 2.666351 Resource Class Series F shares for each Partnership Class F unit held. The adjusted cost base for each Partnership Class F unit was $13.212400 per Partnership unit and the adjusted cost base for each allocated Resource Class Series F share was $4.955237 per share.  

    For investors looking for another tax-advantaged investment, Ninepoint Partners LP has filed and received a receipt for a final prospectus dated January 30, 2025 offering limited partnership units of a new flow-through limited partnership, Ninepoint 2025 Flow-Through Limited Partnership. The prospectus contains important detailed information about the securities being offered. Investors should read the prospectus before making an investment decision.

    The information provided is general in nature and is provided with the understanding that it may not be relied upon as, nor considered to be, the rendering or tax, legal, accounting or professional advice. Readers should consult with their own accountants and/or lawyers for advice on the specific circumstances before taking any action.

    Additional information: The prospectus for the Resource Class is available at www.sedarplus.ca and www.ninepoint.com. Information about the Ninepoint 2025 Flow-Through Limited Partnership is available through the dealers or by contacting us at (866) 299-9906 or invest@ninepoint.com.

    About Ninepoint Partners LP

    Based in Toronto, Ninepoint Partners LP is one of Canada’s leading alternative investment management firms overseeing approximately $7 billion in assets under management and institutional contracts. Committed to helping investors explore innovative investment solutions that have the potential to enhance returns and manage portfolio risk, Ninepoint offers a diverse set of alternative strategies spanning Equities, Fixed Income, Alternative Income, Real Assets, F/X and Digital Assets.

    For more information on Ninepoint Partners LP, please visit www.ninepoint.com or for inquiries regarding the offering, please contact us at (416) 943-6707 or (866) 299-9906 or invest@ninepoint.com.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Kentucky First Federal Bancorp Reports Earnings

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HAZARD, Ky. and FRANKFORT, Ky. and DANVILLE, Ky. and LANCASTER, Ky., Feb. 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Kentucky First Federal Bancorp (Nasdaq: KFFB), the holding company (the “Company”) for First Federal Savings and Loan Association of Hazard and First Federal Savings Bank of Kentucky, Frankfort, Kentucky, announced net income of $13,000 or $0.00 diluted earnings per share for the three months ended December 31, 2024, compared to a net loss of $361,000 or $(0.05) diluted earnings per share for the three months ended December 31, 2023, an increase of $374,000 or 103.6%. A net loss of $2,000 or $(0.00) diluted earnings per share was announced for the six months ended December 31, 2024 compared to a net loss of $536,000 or $(0.07) diluted earnings per share for the six months ended December 31, 2023, an increase of $534,000 or 99.6%.

    The increase in net earnings for the quarter ended December 31, 2024 was primarily attributable to higher net interest income. Net interest income increased $381,000 or 23.0% to $2.0 million due primarily to interest income increasing more than interest expense increased period to period. Interest income increased $857,000 or 21.8% to $4.8 million, while interest expense increased $476,000 or 21.0% to $2.7 million for the recently-ended quarter. While the rising interest rate environment has slowed and market rates have even decreased, the repricing level of our assets has begun to outpace the increase in expenses paid on liabilities.

    The average rate earned on interest-earning assets increased 80 basis points to 5.28% and was the primary reason for the increase in interest income, although average interest-earning assets also increased $11.5 million or 3.3% to $362.3 million for the recently-ended quarterly period. The average rate paid on interest-bearing liabilities increased 44 basis points to 3.53% and was the primary reason for the increase in interest expense, although average interest-bearing liabilities also increased $17.3 million or 5.9%.

    Non-interest income increased $125,000 or 271.7% and totaled $171,000 for the three months ended December 31, 2024, almost entirely due to net gains on sales of loans increasing $74,000 compared to December 31, 2023. This was due to the increase in demand for fixed -rate secondary market loans.

    Non-interest expense also increased $54,000 period to period primarily due to other non-interest expense increasing $123,000, with the majority of this due to increased professional fees. This increase was partially offset by employee compensation and benefits decreasing $62,000 or 4.9% for the three months ended December 31, 2024 compared to December 31, 2023.

    At December 31, 2024, assets totaled $374.2 million, a decrease of $760,000 or 0.2%, from $375.0 million at June 30, 2024, due primarily to the decrease in loans, net, of $2.8 million or 0.8%, as well as a decrease in investment securities of $1.0 million or 10.6% primarily because of principal repayments and prepayments. Cash and cash equivalents totaled $21.0 million, an increase of $2.7 million or 14.7% compared to June 30, 2024. Total liabilities decreased $818,000 or 0.3% to $326.2 million at December 31, 2024, as consistent with our efforts to reduce our reliance on higher cost funding sources, FHLB advances decreased $7.2 million or 10.4% to $61.8 million. Partially offsetting the decrease in FHLB advances was an increase in total deposits of $6.9 million or 2.7% at December 31, 2024. Savings account deposits increased $1.6 million or 3.4%, and certificates of deposit increased $10.3 million or 5.9%.

    At December 31, 2024, the Company reported its book value per share as $5.94. Shareholders’ equity increased $58,000 or 0.1% to $48.1 million at December 31, 2024 compared to June 30, 2024. The increase in shareholders’ equity was primarily associated with accumulated other comprehensive loss decreasing $60,000 at December 31, 2024 compared to June 30, 2024 as the unrealized losses on our investment portfolio decrease.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release may contain statements that are forward-looking, as that term is defined by the Private Securities Litigation Act of 1995 or the Securities and Exchange Commission in its rules, regulations and releases. The Company intends that such forward-looking statements be subject to the safe harbors created thereby. These forward-looking statements may be identified by the use of words such as “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “plan,” “estimate,” “intend” and “potential,” or words of similar meaning, or future or conditional verbs such as “should,” “could,” or “may.” Forward-looking statements include statements of our goals, intentions and expectations; statements regarding our ability to fully and timely address the deficiencies that resulted in the Agreement that First Federal Savings Bank of Kentucky has entered into with the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (“OCC”); First Federal Savings Bank of Kentucky’s ability to satisfy the Individual Minimum Capital Requirements imposed by the OCC; statements regarding our business plans, prospects, growth and operating strategies; statements regarding the quality of our loan and investment portfolios; and estimates of our risks and future costs and benefits. Kentucky First Federal Bancorp’s actual results, performance or achievements may materially differ from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements. Risks and uncertainties that could cause or contribute to such material differences include, but are not limited to, general economic conditions; prices for real estate in the Company’s market areas; the interest rate environment and the impact of the interest rate environment on our business, financial condition and results of operations; our ability to successfully execute our strategy to increase earnings, increase core deposits, reduce reliance on higher cost funding sources and shift more of our loan portfolio towards higher-earning loans; our ability to pay future dividends and if so at what level; our ability to receive any required regulatory approval or non-objection for the payment of dividends from First Federal Savings and Loan Association of Hazard and First Federal Savings Bank of Kentucky to the Company or from the Company to shareholders; the ability of First Federal MHC to receive approval of its members to waive the payment of any Company dividends to First Federal MHC; competitive conditions in the financial services industry; changes in the level of inflation; changes in the demand for loans, deposits and other financial services that we provide; the possibility that future credit losses may be higher than currently expected; competitive pressures among financial services companies; the ability to attract, develop and retain qualified employees; our ability to maintain the security of our data processing and information technology systems; the outcome of pending or threatened litigation, or of matters before regulatory agencies; changes in law, governmental policies and regulations, rapidly changing technology affecting financial services, and the other matters mentioned in Item 1A of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended June 30, 2024. Except as required by applicable law or regulation, the Company does not undertake the responsibility, and specifically disclaims any obligation, to release publicly the result of any revisions that may be made to any forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date of the statements or to reflect the occurrence of anticipated or unanticipated events.

    About Kentucky First Federal Bancorp

    Kentucky First Federal Bancorp is the parent company of First Federal Savings and Loan Association of Hazard, which operates one banking office in Hazard, Kentucky, and First Federal Savings Bank of Kentucky, which operates three banking offices in Frankfort, Kentucky, two banking offices in Danville, Kentucky and one banking office in Lancaster, Kentucky. Kentucky First Federal Bancorp shares are traded on the Nasdaq National Market under the symbol KFFB. At December 31, 2024, the Company had approximately 8,086,715 shares outstanding of which approximately 58.5% was held by First Federal MHC.

    SUMMARY OF FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS                    
    Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets                      
    (In thousands, except share data)               December 31,     June 30,
                    2024
    (Unaudited)    		     2024
    ASSETS              
    Cash and cash equivalents             $ 20,976     $ 18,287  
    Investment Securities               8,818       9,861  
    Loans available-for sale               116       110  
    Loans, net               330,234       333,025  
    Real estate acquired through foreclosure               10       10  
    Other Assets               14,054       13,675  
    Total Assets             $ 374,208     $ 374,968  
    LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY                  
    Deposits             $ 263,055     $ 256,139  
    FHLB Advances               61,792       68,988  
    Other Liabilities               1,306       1,844  
    Total liabilities               326,153       326,971  
    Shareholders’ Equity               48,055       47,997  
    Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity             $ 374,208     $ 374,968  
    Book value per share             $ 5.94     $ 5.94  
    Tangible book value per share             $ 5.94     $ 5.94  
                           
    Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income (Loss)                  
    (In thousands, except share data)                      
                           
      Six months ended December 31,   Three months ended December 31,
        2024
    (Unaudited)    		     2023       2024
    (Unaudited)    		     2023  
    Interest Income $ 9,403     $ 7,661     $ 4,784     $ 3,927  
    Interest Expense   5,496       4,333       2,746       2,270  
    Net Interest Income   3,907       3,328       2,038       1,657  
    Provision for Credit Losses   15       15       –       9  
    Non-interest Income   308       121       171       46  
    Non-interest Expense   4,215       4,132       2,203       2,149  
    Income (Loss) Before Income Taxes   (15 )     (698 )     6       (455 )
    Income Taxes   (13 )     (162 )     (7 )     (94 )
    Net Income (Loss) $ (2 )   $ (536 )   $ 13     $ (361 )
    Earnings per share:                      
    Basic and Diluted $ (0.00 )   $ (0.07 )   $ 0.00     $ (0.05 )
    Weighted average outstanding shares:                      
    Basic and Diluted   8,098,715       8,098,715       8,098,715       8,098,715  
    Contact:  Don Jennings, President, or Tyler Eades, Vice President
    (502) 223-1638
    216 West Main Street
    P.O. Box 535
    Frankfort, KY 40602

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: American Rebel Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: AREB) Regains Compliance with NASDAQ Listing Standards as of February 10, 2025. (UPDATED)

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Nashville, Tennessee, Feb. 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — American Rebel Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: AREB) (“American Rebel” or the “Company”), creator of American Rebel Beer (americanrebelbeer.com) and a designer, manufacturer, and marketer of branded safes, personal security and self-defense products and apparel (americanrebel.com), is pleased to announce that it has regained compliance with the periodic filing requirement under NASDAQ’s listing rules.

    “Maintaining our NASDAQ listing is of utmost importance to our Company and our stockholders. I would like to extend my deepest gratitude to our internal and external accounting teams for their tireless efforts in ensuring our ability to file our FY2024 3rdQuarter financials that allowed American Rebel to regain compliance with NASDAQ’s listing rules.” Andy Ross, CEO of American Rebel, further commented, “The dedication and hard work of Darin Fielding, CFO of our wholly owned subsidiary, Champion Safe Co., who emerged as our regulatory lead due to his previous auditor experience was instrumental in the coordination between our independent auditors, GBQ and Eventus Advisory Group’s seasoned team of public company accounting professionals.”

    Timeline of NASDAQ Compliance Efforts

    November 14, 2024 – FY2024 3rd Quarter 10Q due

    November 22, 2024 – Company notification by NASDAQ that it no longer met the perioding listing requirement due to the inability to file the FY2024 3rd Quarter 10Q

    January 21, 2025 – Deadline for American Rebel Holdings, Inc. to submit a plan to NASDAQ to regain compliance with the listing requirements

    February 7, 2025 – American Rebel Holdings, Inc. files Form 10-Q for the period ended September 30, 2024.

    Revenue for the three (3) months ended September 30, 2024 of $2,337,786.00

    Revenue for the nine (9) months ended September 30, 2024 of $9,637,016.00

    February 10, 2025 – American Rebel Holdings, Inc. is notified by NASDAQ Staff that with the February 7, 2025 filing of the 10-Q for the period ended September 30, 2024, that the Company is deemed compliant with the NASDAQ Listing Rules.

    In the coming weeks, the Company is planning on providing a brief stockholder update from its CEO, Andy Ross, detailing the progress made in our business units throughout last year. This update will highlight the rapid growth and success American Rebel has experienced in our American Rebel Beverage business unit responsible for American Rebel Light Beer and the positive impacts of the reorganization and streamlining of our product offerings and processes at Champion Safe Co. (www.championsafe.com).

    About American Rebel Holdings, Inc.

    American Rebel Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: AREB) has operated primarily as a designer, manufacturer and marketer of branded safes and personal security and self-defense products and has recently transitioned into the beverage industry through the introduction of American Rebel Light Beer. The Company also designs and produces branded apparel and accessories. To learn more, visit www.americanrebel.com and www.americanrebelbeer.com. For investor information, visit www.americanrebel.com/investor-relations.

    American Rebel Holdings, Inc.
    info@americanrebel.com

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. American Rebel Holdings, Inc., (NASDAQ: AREB; AREBW) (the “Company,” “American Rebel,” “we,” “our” or “us”) desires to take advantage of the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and is including this cautionary statement in connection with this safe harbor legislation. The words “forecasts” “believe,” “may,” “estimate,” “continue,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “should,” “plan,” “could,” “target,” “potential,” “is likely,” “expect” and similar expressions, as they relate to us, are intended to identify forward-looking statements. We have based these forward-looking statements primarily on our current expectations and projections about future events and financial trends that we believe may affect our financial condition, results of operations, business strategy, and financial needs. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ from those in the forward-looking statements include benefits of marketing outreach efforts, continued compliance with Nasdaq listing requirements, our ability to effectively execute our business plan, and the Risk Factors contained within our filings with the SEC, including our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023 and Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2024. Any forward-looking statement made by us herein speaks only as of the date on which it is made. Factors or events that could cause our actual results to differ may emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for us to predict all of them. We undertake no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, except as may be required by law.

    Company Contact:
    Corey Lambrecht, COO
    Corey.lambrecht@americanrebel.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Nokia Corporation: Repurchase of own shares on 11.02.2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Nokia Corporation
    Stock Exchange Release
    11 February 2025 at 22:30 EET

    Nokia Corporation: Repurchase of own shares on 11.02.2025

    Espoo, Finland – On 11 February 2025 Nokia Corporation (LEI: 549300A0JPRWG1KI7U06) has acquired its own shares (ISIN FI0009000681) as follows:

    Trading venue (MIC Code) Number of shares Weighted average price / share, EUR*
    XHEL 1,390,880 4.69
    CEUX – –
    BATE – –
    AQEU – –
    TQEX – –
    Total 1,390,880 4.69

    * Rounded to two decimals

    On 22 November 2024, Nokia announced that its Board of Directors is initiating a share buyback program to offset the dilutive effect of new Nokia shares issued to the shareholders of Infinera Corporation and certain Infinera Corporation share-based incentives. The repurchases in compliance with the Market Abuse Regulation (EU) 596/2014 (MAR), the Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2016/1052 and under the authorization granted by Nokia’s Annual General Meeting on 3 April 2024 started on 25 November 2024 and end by 31 December 2025 and target to repurchase 150 million shares for a maximum aggregate purchase price of EUR 900 million.

    Total cost of transactions executed on 11 February 2025 was EUR 6,518,637. After the disclosed transactions, Nokia Corporation holds 245,094,754 treasury shares.

    Details of transactions are included as an appendix to this announcement.

    On behalf of Nokia Corporation

    BofA Securities Europe SA

    About Nokia
    At Nokia, we create technology that helps the world act together.

    As a B2B technology innovation leader, we are pioneering networks that sense, think and act by leveraging our work across mobile, fixed and cloud networks. In addition, we create value with intellectual property and long-term research, led by the award-winning Nokia Bell Labs which is celebrating 100 years of innovation.

    With truly open architectures that seamlessly integrate into any ecosystem, our high-performance networks create new opportunities for monetization and scale. Service providers, enterprises and partners worldwide trust Nokia to deliver secure, reliable and sustainable networks today – and work with us to create the digital services and applications of the future.

    Inquiries:

    Nokia Communications
    Phone: +358 10 448 4900
    Email: press.services@nokia.com
    Maria Vaismaa, Global Head of External Communications

    Nokia Investor Relations
    Phone: +358 931 580 507
    Email: investor.relations@nokia.com

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Barrasso: Wyoming Should Be in Charge of Grizzly Bear Management, Not Washington

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wyoming John Barrasso

    Click here to watch Sen. Barrasso’s remarks on grizzly bear management.
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), called for restoring Wyoming’s authority to manage its own grizzly bear population during his remarks today on the Senate floor. Barrasso highlighted legislation he recently cosponsored to remove grizzly bears in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem from the Endangered Species List and shift management of the bear to the states.
    Sen. Barrasso’s remarks:
    “Under the Constitution, most decisions affecting our lives are meant to be made at the local or the state level. But for decades, unelected, unaccountable, heavy-handed federal bureaucrats have taken away decisions from the states. They’ve centralized power and ignored the local experts. We need to put the power back into the hands of the people and the states. That’s where it belongs. That’s what our founding fathers envisioned.
    “And the perfect example of this is the status of grizzly bears in Yellowstone National Park.
    “The Yellowstone population of grizzly bears has been fully recovered – put on the endangered species list years and years ago – but has been fully recovered for more than 20 years. In Wyoming, we’ve invested more than $50 million in this effort to make sure that the grizzly bears did fully and safely recover. Both Democrat administrations and Republican administrations have moved to take an action to take the grizzly bear off of the Endangered Species List.
    “Wyoming has a strong proven track record of science-based management of the bears.
    “Today, grizzly bears in Yellowstone are thriving. They’re thriving so much that they’re now doing great damage to our livestock and to our wildlife. In 2022, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service said that there was ‘substantial scientific or commercial information to warrant local control.’ Not the heavy hand of Washington, but local control. Yet the grizzly bear remains under Washington’s control, and that is despite the best data and our state’s success.
    “This issue isn’t science, it’s politics. There are partisan liberal judges who refuse to listen to scientific evidence. The evidence shows that the grizzlies are fully recovered. The previous administration didn’t want to give up control. That’s kind of how the Biden administration did it. So on its way out the door, the final weeks, it threw sand in the gears of change. The Biden administration rejected at the midnight hour, Wyoming’s good faith efforts and management plans – they did it just before leaving office.
    “The decision was wrong. It was wrong for the grizzly bear population, and it was wrong for the people of Wyoming.
    “It’s time for Wyoming – not Washington – to be in charge of managing the grizzly bears.
    “In Congress, Senator Cynthia Lummis and Congresswoman Harriet Hageman and I introduced legislation to delist the grizzly bears. Our legislation would restore state management. It would put power back into the hands of the people who understand the situation the best.
    “We’re also working with the Trump administration to take immediate action. Interior Secretary Doug Burgum is a supporter of delisting the grizzly bears. He agrees that local communities and states should be in control of these decisions. As he said in his confirmation hearing, there’s a belief that when they come off of federal protection, they’re unprotected. No, he said, they’re managed – as are all of the other species in the state – by the locals who’ve got the closest data. Secretary Burgum is right, and I’m glad that we finally have an administration that is ready to work with the people of Wyoming.
    “I’m going to continue to work closely with the Secretary of Interior on a path forward that allows the people of Wyoming to make decisions for Wyoming.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Barrasso: Tusli Gabbard Will Handle Classified Information Properly and Lawfully

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wyoming John Barrasso
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Senate Majority Whip, today spoke on the Senate Floor ahead of voting to confirm Tulsi Gabbard, President Donald J. Trump’s nominee for Director of National Intelligence.
    Click HERE to watch Senator Barrasso’s remarks.
    Sen. Barrasso’s remarks as prepared:
    “The Senate will soon vote on the nomination of Tulsi Gabbard to be the Director of National Intelligence.
    “Congresswoman Gabbard has the right background, the right experience, and the right perspective to keep America safe and secure.
    “Congresswoman Gabbard has served in uniform or more than 20 years. She deployed to the Middle East several times. She serves in the military today and was recently promoted to Lieutenant Colonel.
    “As a member of Congress for eight years, Congresswoman Gabbard served on the Armed Services and Foreign Affairs committees.
    “Her experience handling highly classified information is extensive.
    “As Director of National Intelligence, she will handle classified information properly and lawfully.
    “Congresswoman Gabbard is more than qualified to serve as our Director of National Intelligence.
    “I’ve heard a lot of debate about Congresswoman Gabbard. Not one Senator has disputed a simple fact: She took a hard line on Russia and Iran.
    “In 2013, Congresswoman Gabbard co-sponsored the Nuclear Iran Prevention Act.
    “Congresswoman Gabbard wanted severe sanctions on Iran. Then-President Obama wanted to appease Iran.
    “Congresswoman Gabbard opposed the Iran Deal. She viewed it as a threat to both America and Israel.
    “She was right.
    “In 2014, Russia annexed Crimea. President Obama rejected sending tank-busting missiles to Ukraine. He instead sent them blankets. The sanctions he imposed on Russia were weak.
    “Congresswoman Gabbard argued for U.S. military assistance to Ukraine. She also called for painful sanctions against Russia.
    “She never sought war with Russia. Yet she never kid herself about Russia’s aggressive ambitions.
    “She worked to stop wars, even though she served and was ready to fight in them. She knows what it means when we talk about peace through strength.
    “The Democrat attacks on her patriotism and loyalty are disturbing. There is no evidence to support them.
    “The attacks on Congresswoman Gabbard are another case of Democrats equating political disagreement with disloyalty.
    “If Washington wants Americans to trust our intelligence agencies again, we need to take an axe to the weaponization of those very agencies.
    “Congresswoman Gabbard will keep politics out of intelligence gathering. She wants to return ODNI to its original size, scope, and mission.
    “As she wrote in Newsweek, ‘I promise to provide unbiased, timely, and accurate intelligence for those making decisions to protect the people of our country.’ This is exactly what we need.
    “Tulsi Gabbard is the right choice to be the Director of National Intelligence. I look forward to confirming her.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch on Trump’s Chaotic and Cruel Second Term: “The law matters. Respect for your opponents matters. And focusing on the everyday needs of everyday people is what matters most.”

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) took to the Senate floor to speak on President Trump’s exaggerated claims of winning the 2024 election by a ‘landside,’ and called on the Trump Administration to focus not on political retribution and his agenda of ‘overreach and failure,’ but on the issues that matter to everyday Americans.  
    “As long as President Trump and his allies pretend that he has this massive mandate to literally disrupt and throw out the traditions and norms and guardrails of democracy, that is something I and so many of my colleagues will resist. We can’t do that. The law matters. Respect for your opponents matters. And focusing on the everyday needs of everyday people is what matters most. It’s what is the goal all of us should be looking to accomplish,” said Sen. Welch.
    Watch Senator Welch’s speech below: 
    Read the Senator’s remarks as delivered here. 
    Senator Welch’s Committee and Subcommittee Assignments for the 119th Congress include:  
    Senate Committee on Finance  
    Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, & Forestry 
    Ranking Member, Subcommittee on Rural Development, Energy, and Credit  
    Senate Committee on the Judiciary 
    Ranking Member, Subcommittee on the Constitution  
    Senate Committee on Rules & Administration 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: 02.11.2025 Sen. Cruz, Rep. Jackson Reintroduce Tax Relief Bill for Panhandle Wildfires Victims

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Texas Ted Cruz

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and Rep. Ronny Jackson (R-Texas-13) reintroduced the Wildfire Victim Tax Relief and Recovery Act. The bill would provide tax relief for victims who suffered significant losses in the Panhandle last year when wildfires burned 1.2 million acres, destroyed homes, and killed thousands of cattle.
    Upon reintroduction, Sen. Cruz said, “Last year, historic wildfires destroyed the Panhandle, taking the homes and livelihoods of thousands of Texans. This bill will deliver much needed tax relief to support these communities in their ongoing recovery efforts. I urge my colleagues to pass this bill without delay.”
    Rep. Jackson said, “The historic wildfires that tore through the Texas Panhandle last year have left a lasting mark on all the ranchers, families, and communities involved. I’m honored to reintroduce this critical legislation and am committed to making sure those hit hardest by this catastrophic disaster can use the assistance they’ve received to rebuild their farms, ranches, and livelihoods, not pay the federal government.”
    Read the bill text here.
    BACKGROUND
    The Wildfire Victim Tax Relief and Recovery Act:

    Exempts government relief payments and settlement payments from Xcel Energy from income taxes.
    Provides tax relief to producers who were forced to sell livestock due to the Panhandle fires.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Finance – ASB drops mortgage rates further

    Source: ASB

    ASB has today announced decreases on some of its most popular mortgage terms, with market-leading rates across the major banks on 6-month, 1-year and 18-month terms from today. The 6-month term drops 10 basis points to 5.89%, the 1-year rate drops to 5.49% while the 18-month term falls 15 basis points to 5.19%.

    ASB’s Executive General Manager Adam Boyd says today’s rate changes will be welcome news for home loan customers and those looking to refix or buy.

    “We’ve lowered rates across several terms three times in the past month, giving our customers and prospective buyers a range of options – whether they’re after short-term relief or longer-term certainty. We already know how popular the short-term rates are, and we’ve seen growing interest in the 18-month term this year. Competition is fierce when it comes to interest rates, and we’re pleased to be offering lower mortgage rates for New Zealanders”, says Boyd.

    In line with falling wholesale rates, ASB has also reduced some of its term deposit rates.  “We know that an easing interest rate environment can mean different things for homeowners and for savers. We’ve got a range of options available to support our customers and we encourage them to reach out to us for tailored guidance and advice.”

    All rate adjustments are effective immediately for new and current customers.

     

      Fixed home lending term

    Previous rate

    New rate

    Rate decrease

    6-month

    5.99%

    5.89%

    – 10 bps

    1-year

    5.54%

    5.49%

    – 5 bps

    18-month

    5.34%

    5.19%

    – 15 bps

     

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Tenants’ privacy rights in the spotlight

    Source: Office of the Privacy Commissioner

    The hunt to land a flat over summer shouldn’t come at the expense of people’s privacy rights, warns Privacy Commissioner Michael Webster.
    “There’s often a lot of pressure on people, especially students, to find a flat quickly, which risks privacy shortcuts being taken and that can put both tenants and landlords at risk.
    Tenants should be aware they have privacy rights when applying for a flat and that landlords have obligations under the Privacy Act, Mr Webster says.
    “Tenants are often desperate to find a flat, so they might disclose a whole lot of personal information that isn’t legally required. Essentially, they’re giving others power over their own details and that isn’t a great strategy.”
    The desire to get a tenant quickly could also lead some landlords to take privacy shortcuts, which puts people at risk.
    “The majority of landlords care about their tenants’ privacy, but there can be a lot of factors to weigh up when considering applications and it can be tempting to over collect personal information and to get details that aren’t legally allowed. It can also mean they can end up with a large amount of information with no way to manage or store it safely.
    “Landlords need to know what information they can legally collect, and when. They also need to make sure personal information collected during the rental application process is kept secure and is not disclosed without authorisation.”
    “Personal information has value and is protected under the Privacy Act at all stages of the rental process. It’s important shortcuts aren’t taken to fill a flat and that only the necessary personal information is supplied and only when its needed.”
    Personal characteristics, including relationship status, age, gender identity and employment status are protected under the Human Rights Act. Things like spending habits, experience of family violence, employment history and social media URLS are protected under other Acts.
    To help educate landlords and tenants OPC had updated its guidance for the rental sector to help make sure that privacy is respected throughout the application process.
    Information for both landlords and tenants is available at privacy.org.nz.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Energy Sector – Energy Competition Task Force identifies new ways to empower electricity consumers

    Source: Electricity Authority

    The Energy Competition Task Force (the Task Force) has identified new ways to give consumers more control over their energy costs and to harness the power of rooftop solar and batteries. The Electricity Authority Te Mana Hiko (the Authority) is now seeking feedback on three proposed changes to regulation to promote competition, reliable power supply, and efficient operation of the electricity market for the long-term benefit of all New Zealanders.
    Two of the three proposed changes are about rewarding consumers for supplying electricity to the network at peak times, typically through their own solar and battery systems. The other would make ‘time-of-use’ power plans (plans that reward off-peak electricity use) available to most New Zealanders.
    Electricity Authority Chair and Task Force member Anna Kominik says there are real benefits if consumers are empowered to more actively participate in the electricity market, including increased energy resilience and reduced power costs over time.
    “New Zealand’s electricity market currently relies on a few big generators to supply electricity at select locations and transmit it to households and businesses across the country. But as uptake of solar and battery systems continues to increase, more consumers will be able to contribute to our electricity system. And as smart electronics and vehicles become more ubiquitous, consumers will also be able to more actively manage their own energy use and costs.
    “We’re proposing three changes to help support this consumer empowerment and decentralisation of our energy system. Over time, this will increase community resilience and lower power costs for everyone,” she said.
    The proposals would require:
    • Consumer-supply rebates from distributors: lines companies to provide a rebate when consumers supply energy into congested parts of the network (Task Force Initiative 2A)
    • Time-varying retail pricing for consumption: large electricity retailers to offer at least one time-of-use pricing plan to all their customers (Task Force Initiative 2B)
    • Time-varying retail pricing for supply: large electricity retailers to offer at least one time-varying rate for when they buy electricity from consumers (Task Force Initiative 2C).
    Making ‘time-of-use’ power plans more widely available for Kiwis
    Commerce Commission Chair and Task Force member, Dr John Small, said the Initiative 2B proposal would significantly increase availability of ‘time-of-use’ pricing plans. These plans reward consumers for using power during off-peak hours, meaning they can take advantage of cheaper off-peak power, instead of paying a single flat rate.
    “While time-of-use pricing plans aren’t new, many consumers don’t have access to one through their current retailer. As these plans provide a simple, effective tool for consumers to manage their energy use and costs, we’d like to see all major retailers offer them, so more consumers have this choice.”
    Dr Small said the plans have the additional benefit of reducing overall electricity costs for consumers across the country.
    “People on these plans are incentivised to shift their use away from peak periods when electricity is most expensive. The more consumers shift their use at these times – for example by running EV chargers later at night when electricity demand is generally lower – the less high-cost electricity needs to be generated, and this lowers costs for everyone,” he said.
    Rewarding consumers for supplying electricity to the network at peak times
    Kominik explains that the initiative 2A and 2C proposals would reward consumers who can supply electricity when demand on the network is peaking, typically through their own solar and battery systems.
    “We’d like to see people fairly rewarded for supplying power when it’s needed, and incentivise efficient uptake of flexible, small-scale electricity generation systems such as rooftop solar and batteries. Energy from rooftop solar supplied at peak times can ease pressure on the electricity network, reducing demand and keeping the lines costs we all pay for through our power bills to a minimum.
    “By incentivising households and businesses to invest in their own generation, we can help meet New Zealand’s electricity needs when demand is high and improve community resilience,” she said.
    The Task Force invites feedback on these proposals through the eight-week consultation period, which closes at 5pm on Wednesday 9th April, with two further weeks for cross-submissions.
    As part of this consultation package, the Electricity Authority is releasing an issues paper that explores whether the existing pricing rules for distributed generation are fit for purpose. The issues and potential solutions explored in this paper support the proposals in the Task Force initiative 2A consultation paper. Visit this Authority webpage for more information on the issues paper.
    The Energy Competition Task Force was established by the Commerce Commission Te Komihana Tauhokohoko and Electricity Authority Te Mana Hiko in August 2024 to investigate ways to improve the performance of the electricity market.
    The Task Force is considering eight initiatives that will encourage more and faster investment in new electricity generation, boost competition, enable homes, businesses and industrials to better manage their own electricity use and costs, and put downward pressure on prices.
    The attached diagram illustrates the various charges between distributors, retailers and consumers and where proposals for initiatives 2A and 2C would be incorporated. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Environment – Climate and public health the winners as big waste incineration proposal fails – Greenpeace

    Source: Greenpeace

    Greenpeace welcomes news that a land-use agreement in Glenavy has lapsed and will not be renewed, which means a proposed $350 million waste to energy incinerator cannot be built there by the company SRRL.
    It would have been the first polluting waste to energy incinerator built of its kind in Aotearoa New Zealand.
    “This is great news for the climate and for the health of the local community, which has strongly opposed the building of a waste to energy incinerator in Glenavy in the Waimate district. Aotearoa New Zealand’s energy future is in renewable clean energy such as wind and solar, not burning waste with fossil fuels,” says Greenpeace spokesperson Juressa Lee.
    Greenpeace Aotearoa has opposed the proposal since it became public in September 2021 and subsequently wrote to the Minister for the Environment to call-in the proposal under the RMA. With a change of government in 2023, the Luxon government decided to include the proposal in its list of projects that could apply for consent under its new Fast-track Approvals legislation, under which community concerns, public health and environmental considerations would be set aside in favour of the company’s own questionable claims for economic benefits.
    The local community in the Waimate district, including local iwi, Te Rūnanga o Waihao, Why Waste Waimate, Waimate Doctors and national environmental groups, including Zero Waste Network Aotearoa, 350 Aotearoa and others, have all campaigned to stop the proposed waste incinerator. Greenpeace pays tribute to all of them and shares in their delight at the news.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: TRAI releases report on Independent Drive Tests (IDT) conducted in five citiesviz. Mysuru City (Karnataka LSA), Dharamshala City (Himachal Pradesh LSA), Chennai City (Tamil Nadu LSA), Chandigarh City (Punjab LSA) and Kolkata City (Kolkata LSA) during Nov- 2024.

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 11 FEB 2025 6:15PM by PIB Delhi

    TRAI, through its empanelled agency, conducted Independent Drive Tests (IDT)in five cities viz. Mysuru City (Karnataka LSA),Dharamshala City (Himachal Pradesh LSA), Chennai City (Tamil Nadu LSA), Chandigarh City (Punjab LSA) and Kolkata City (Kolkata LSA). Drive tests were conducted to assess the quality of service provided by Cellular Mobile Telephone Service providers for voice and data services in November-2024.

    In IDT, the performance of M/s Bharti Airtel Ltd., M/s BSNL/MTNL, M/s Reliance JioInfocomm Ltd. and M/s Vodafone Idea Ltd., providing services in a Licensed Service Area (LSA) through various technologies (like 2G/ 3G/ 4G/ 5G) for voice and data, has been measured by conducting drive test. The observations presented in drive test reports represent the performance of the service providers on the area/ route under test on the day/ time of conducting the drive test.

    The following Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for Voice as well as Data service were assessed for the networks of allTelecom service providers operating in the region.

    1. Voice services:
    1. Call setup success rate
    2. Drop call rate (DCR)
    3. Speech Quality using MOS (mean opinion score)
    4. Downlink &Uplink packet (voice) drop rate
    5. Call Silence Rate
    6. Coverage (%)- Signal strength
    1. Data Service:
    1. Data Throughput (Downlink and uplink both)
    2. Packet drop rate (Downlink & Uplink)
    3. Video streaming delay
    4. Latency
    5. Jitter

    The details of drive tests conducted in the four cities are given below:-

    S.No.

    City/Routes Covered

    Licensed Service Area

    Period of Drive Test

    Distance Covered

    Performancesummary

    (attached at)

    1

    		 Mysuru City & Mysuru toMalavalli Highway Karnataka 19th Nov. 2024 to 22nd Nov. 2024 City :263.5 Kms

    Walk Test: 10 Kms

    Highway :215 Kms

    		 Annexure A

    2

    		 Dharamshala City Himachal Pradesh 19th Nov. 2024 to 20thNov. 2024 City :148 Kms Annexure B

    3

    		 Chennai City Tamil Nadu 19th Nov. 2024 to 22nd Nov. 2024 City :352.5 Kms Annexure C

    4

    		 Chandigarh City Punjab 10th Nov. 2024 to 15thNov. 2024 City :599.5 Kms

    Walk Test: 2.6 Kms

    		 Annexure D

    5

    		 Kolkata City Kolkata 5thNov. 2024 to 9thNov. 2024 City :264 Kms

    Walk Test: 1.34 Kms

    		 Annexure E

    The detailed reports are available at TRAI website www.trai.gov.in. For anyclarification/information, Shri Tejpal Singh, Advisor (QoS-I) TRAI may be contacted on email: adv-qos1@trai.gov.inor at Tel. No. +91-11-20907759.

    Click here to download PDF

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  • MIL-OSI Australia: Minecraft: a gamechanger for children’s learning

    Source: University of South Australia

    12 February 2025

    Minecraft has more than 141 million active players.

    It’s the globally popular video game that’s captured the attention of more than 141 million active players, but Minecraft can also play a significant role in shaping children’s development, social interactions, and cognitive learning, say researchers at the University of South Australia.

    Published in the new book Children’s online learning and interaction, the study found that when children engage in collaborative Minecraft play, they foster teamwork, communication, and social skills as players exchange ideas and problem-solve in real-time.

    As Minecraft Education Edition becomes more prevalent in school curricula worldwide, understanding how children interact within these digital spaces is critical for parents and educators.

    Author and UniSA researcher Dr Vincenza (Enza) Tudini, says Minecraft can be a powerful tool for learning, creativity and social development.

    “From what we see of children’s interactions on Minecraft, it’s far more than just a digital pastime; it’s a virtual playground where children can develop problem-solving skills, collaboration, and language abilities,” Dr Tudini says.

    “We also know that Minecraft is a pro-social game with players demonstrating greetings and positive play evaluations as they interact with each other. As they play or watch videos, they’re growing their language skills, and increasing their digital literacy.

    “Team and problem-solving skills are also prominent in Minecraft. Unlike traditional video games that tend to focus on competition and scoring points, Minecraft is an open-ended experience that encourages children to build, explore, and interact, with players often working together to achieve common goals.

    “We also see many instances where knowledgeable players are actively guiding less experienced players through challenges. Such scaffolded-learning supports creative thinking, motivation and growth, and because it’s peer-delivered, it builds team-skills and confidence.”

    Despite Minecraft offering rich learning opportunities, it also comes with challenges – especially in open online environments.

    “All online spaces have safety risks. While Minecraft promotes positive social interactions, public servers can expose children to online risks such as bullying or interactions with unknown players,” Dr Tudini says.

    “Ensuring children’s safety and maximising the game’s educational potential requires active involvement from both parents and educators. We need to teach children about safe gaming practices, encourage play with known friends, and monitor content to ensure a safe gaming experience.

    “By adopting safe gaming practices and integrating Minecraft into learning environments, we can help children harness its benefits while navigating the digital world responsibly.”

    Recommendations for Parents

    • Encourage collaborative play with known friends or siblings to enhance social skills and teamwork.
    • Opt for family-friendly or private servers to reduce risks associated with public multiplayer gameplay.
    • Monitor YouTube and online content to ensure channels are appropriate.
    • Teach online safety, set boundaries about sharing personal information, and encourage respectful online communication.
    • Ensure a healthy balance between screen time with other offline activities

    Recommendations for Schools:

    • Minecraft Education Edition offers structured lessons like coding, mathematics, and environmental science. Teachers can use the game to engage students in creative learning.
    • Promote digital citizenship by teaching online etiquette, cyber safety, and responsible gaming.
    • Encourage constructive collaboration that require teamwork and problem-solving.

    ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

    Contact for interview:  Dr Vincenza (Enza) Tudini E: Enza.Tudini@unisa.edu.au
    Media contact: Annabel Mansfield M: +61 479 182 489 E: Annabel.Mansfield@unisa.edu.au

    Other articles you may be interested in

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Prime Minister meets President of the Republic of Estonia

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 11 FEB 2025 6:19PM by PIB Delhi

    ​Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi met today with H.E. Mr. Alar Karis, President of the Republic of Estonia on the sidelines of the AI Action Summit in Paris. This was the first meeting between the two leaders.

    Prime Minister and President Karis underlined that warm and friendly relations between India and Estonia are based on their shared commitment to democracy, rule of law and the values of freedom and pluralism. The two leaders expressed satisfaction at the growing bilateral cooperation in various fields, including trade and investment, IT and digital, culture, tourism and people-to-people ties. They discussed the ongoing bilateral cooperation in the field of cyber security. Prime Minister invited the Estonian government and companies to explore the opportunities offered by the India growth story and take advantage of programmes such as Digital India.

    The two leaders noted the importance of the India-Estonia partnership also in the context of the India-EU strategic partnership. They welcomed the initiation of ministerial exchanges in the India-Nordic-Baltic format. The leaders also exchanged views on regional and global issues of mutual interest, and cooperation at the United Nations.

    The two leaders expressed satisfaction at the growing cultural and people-to-people ties between India and Estonia. In this regard, PM appreciated the popularity of Yoga in Estonia.

     

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: MALDIVES REQUESTS INDIA’S SUPPORT FOR DIGITIZATION OF PARLIAMENTARY RESOURCES, LOK SABHA SPEAKER ASSURES EVERY POSSIBLE HELP TO MALDIVES LEGISLATURE

    Source: Government of India (2)

    MALDIVES REQUESTS INDIA’S SUPPORT FOR DIGITIZATION OF PARLIAMENTARY RESOURCES, LOK SABHA SPEAKER ASSURES EVERY POSSIBLE HELP TO MALDIVES LEGISLATURE

    MALDIVES SPEAKER APPRECITES USE OF TECHNOLOGY, DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION WITH AI AND MULTILINGUAL INTERPRETATION SERVICES IN PARLIAMENT OF INDIA

    MALDIVES IS AN IMPORTANT PILLAR OF OUR ‘NEIGHBOURHOOD FIRST’ POLICY AND VISION OF ‘SAGAR’: LOK SABHA SPEAKER

    PEOPLE TO PEOPLE RELATIONS BETWEEN INDIA AND MALDIVES ARE BEDROCK OF BILATERAL TIES: LOK SABHA SPEAKER

    PARLIAMENTARY DELEGATION FROM MALDIVES CALLS ON LOK SABHA SPEAKER

    Posted On: 11 FEB 2025 6:15PM by PIB Delhi

    Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla today reaffirmed India’s deep-rooted ties with the Maldives, describing the island nation as not just a friendly neighbor but also a key pillar of India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy and vision ‘SAGAR’. Shri Birla made these remarks during bilateral talks with the visiting Maldivian delegation, led by H.E. Mr. Abdul Raheem Abdulla, Speaker of the People’s Majlis of Maldives, at Parliament House.

    During the discussions, Shri Birla highlighted the advances made by Parliament of India in its digital transformation with Artificial Intelligence (AI) to enhance legislative efficiency. He informed the delegation that the Parliament of India now provides simultaneous interpretation services in 15 regional languages, which will soon be expanded to 22 languages.

    Speaker of the People’s Majlis of Maldives appreciated the usage of technology, digitalization work and use of AI by Parliament of India and requested Shri Birla to extend technological support to help Maldives Majlis to digitise its parliamentary resources. Shri Birla assured him that every possible help would be extended from Parliament of India to People’s Majlis of Maldives in this regard.

    Extending a warm welcome, Shri Birla emphasized the historical and cultural ties between the two nations, highlighting the renewed momentum in their relations following President Mohamed Muizzu’s visit to India last year. He hoped that the visit of the Maldivian Parliamentary delegation would further strengthen bilateral relations between the two countries.

    Discussing capacity-building initiatives, the Speaker underscored the role of PRIDE (Parliamentary Research and Training Institute for Democracies) in providing training on parliamentary procedures. He expressed confidence that the Maldivian Parliament and Secretariat would benefit from PRIDE’s expertise. Shri Birla hoped that this visit would open new avenues for collaboration between the legislative institutions of India and the Maldives.

    The Lok Sabha Speaker informed the delegation that India is currently celebrating 75 years of its Constitution, which serves as the foundation of the country’s vibrant parliamentary democracy and source of inspiration in the nation’s journey. Elaborating on India’s Parliamentary Committee System, Shri Birla described committees as “Mini-Parliaments”, where key budgetary and policy matters undergo in-depth scrutiny. He underscored that these committees function in a non-partisan manner, enabling detailed deliberations that are often constrained in the larger House due to time limitations. He informed the Delegation that various committees are currently examining the budget tabled in Parliament, ensuring robust financial oversight.

    H.E. Mr. Abdul Raheem Abdulla thanked Shri Birla for the warm welcome and commended the Indian Parliament’s digital advancements, particularly its use of AI. He also visited the Parliament Library and appreciated the facilities there and hoped that the similar facilities would be made available in the Parliament Library of the Maldives.

    The meeting was also attended by Members of Parliament – Shri N.K. Premachandran, Shri Ashish Dubey, Shri Francis George, Shri Alok Kumar Suman, Shri Shafi Perambil  and Shri Utpal Kumar Singh, Secretary General, Lok Sabha, among others.

    Earlier, the Parliamentary Delegation led by H.E. Mr. Abdul Raheem Abdulla, Speaker of the People’s Majlis of Maldives watched the proceedings of Lok Sabha. Shri Birla welcomed the Delegation in the House.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PRESIDENT OF INDIA INAUGURATES INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON INNOVATION IN UNANI MEDICINE FOR INTEGRATIVE HEALTH SOLUTIONS – A WAY FORWARD

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 11 FEB 2025 6:08PM by PIB Delhi

    The President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu, inaugurated an International conference on innovation in Unani Medicine for Integrative Health Solutions – A Way Forward in New Delhi today (February 11, 2025) on Unani Day.

    Speaking on the occasion, the President said that it is an occasion to remember Hakim Ajmal Khan, in whose honour, this day has been celebrated as Unani Day since 2016. She stated that Hakim Ajmal Khan spread the Unani system of medicine in India. He presented many examples of innovation. Due to his efforts, the Unani system of medicine was widely adopted in India.

    The President said that today, India is leading the world in terms of education, research, healthcare, and the production of medicines in the Unani system. She was happy to note that researchers and practitioners associated with the Unani system are adopting useful aspects of modern methods and technology. She expressed confidence that this conference will discuss contemporary topics like Evidence-based Recent Research Trends in Unani Medicine and Harnessing Artificial Intelligence and Machine learning for Ayush/Traditional Medicine: Prospects and Challenges.

     The President said our country has adopted a holistic approach towards health. Efforts are being made to empower various medical systems by giving them due respect. According to the National Health Policy 2017, special emphasis is being laid on bringing AYUSH medical systems, including Unani, into the mainstream. She noted that under the guidance of the National Commission for Indian System of Medicine, studies and research are going on in many Unani medical educational institutions. MD and PhD programs have also been started in Unani Medical Colleges. She expressed confidence that the new generations in Unani medical science will strengthen the ancient heritage of knowledge and experience.

    Please click here to see the President’s Speech – 

     

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