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Category: KB

  • MIL-OSI Security: Indictment Charges Two in $230 Million Cryptocurrency Scam

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

                WASHINGTON – An indictment was unsealed today charging Malone Lam, 20, of Miami, FL and Los Angeles, CA, and Jeandiel Serrano, 21, of Los Angeles, CA, with conspiracy to steal and launder over $230 million in cryptocurrency from a victim in Washington, D.C.  Lam, a citizen of Singapore who goes by the online monikers “Anne Hathaway” and “$$$”, and Serrano, who uses “VersaceGod” and “@SkidStar”, were arrested last night and are appearing in U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida and the Central District of California, respectively, today.

                The arrests and indictment were announced by U.S. Attorney Matthew M. Graves, FBI Acting Special Agent in Charge David Geist of the Washington Field Office’s Criminal and Cyber Division, and Executive Special Agent in Charge Kareem A. Carter of the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) Washington, D.C. Field Office.

                According in the indictment, since at least August 2024, Lam, Serrano, and others conspired to carry out cryptocurrency thefts and to launder the stolen crypto currency through exchanges and mixing services. The conspirators would fraudulently gain access to victim cryptocurrency accounts and then transfer victim funds into their possession. They laundered the proceeds, including by moving the funds through various mixers and exchanges using “peel chains,” pass-through wallets, and virtual private networks (VPNs) to mask their true identities.  Lam and Serrano then allegedly spent the laundered cryptocurrency proceeds on international travel, nightclubs, luxury automobiles, watches, jewelry, designer handbags, and rental homes in Los Angeles and Miami. In one instance, on August 18, 2024, Lam, Serrano, and their conspirators contacted a victim in D.C. and, through the communications with that victim, fraudulently obtained over 4,100 Bitcoin (worth over $230 million at the time).

                This ongoing investigation is being handled by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia, the FBI’s Washington Field Office, and the IRS-Criminal Investigation Washington Field Office.  Significant investigative and operational support was provided by the FBI’s Los Angeles and Miami Field Offices.

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

    ###

    24cr417

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: 09/23/2024, 14-35 (Moscow time) the values of the upper limit of the price corridor and the range of market risk assessment for the RU000A0JWVL2 security (EuroplanB7) were changed.

    MIL OSI Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Moscow Exchange – Moscow Exchange –

    09/23/2024

    14:35

    In accordance with the Methodology for determining the risk parameters of the stock market and deposit market of Moscow Exchange PJSC by NCO NCC (JSC) on September 23, 2024, 14:35 (Moscow time), the values of the upper limit of the price corridor (up to 106.57) and the range of market risk assessment (up to 1151.1 rubles, equivalent to a rate of 10.0%) of the RU000A0JWVL2 (EuroplanB7) security were changed.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    https://www.moex.com/n73327

    EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and or sentence structure not be perfect.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: U.S. Navy EOD advances exMCM capabilities with Allies and partners at Exercise Sea Breeze 2024

    Source: United States Navy

    VARNA, Bulgaria – Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit (EODMU) 8 and Mobile Diving and Salvage Company (MDS) 2-3 operated alongside NATO allies and partners at Exercise Sea 24-3, Sept. 9-20, 2024. This collaborative exercise aims to address the current maritime mine threat, collective demining capabilities, and effective means of enhancing Black Sea regional maritime security.

    In its 23rd iteration, Sea Breeze is an annual, multinational maritime exercise, originally co-hosted by Ukraine and U.S. 6th Fleet to enhance interoperability and capabilities among participating forces.

    For Sea Breeze 24.3, U.S. 6th Fleet led the pre-planning and coordinated logistics, and EODMU 8, a subordinate command of Commander Task Force (CTF) 68 headquartered in Rota, Spain, led the planning and execution, sharing extensive expeditionary mine countermeasure (exMCM) knowledge and capabilities with NATO allies and partners. Countries participating, observing, or mentoring during Sea Breeze 24-3 included Bulgaria, Denmark, Estonia, France, Georgia, Japan, Norway, Romania, Sweden, Türkiye, Ukraine, and U.S.

    U.S. Navy expeditionary forces such as EODMU 8 have had a consistent presence in the Black Sea and have a longstanding history of training alongside partner nations on tactics, techniques, and procedures for mine threat operations in order to enhance our shared lethality and support freedom of navigation.

    “EOD Mobile Unit 8 operates consistently with outstanding professionalism, and every member of the Thunderstealer team plays a critical role in ensuring mission success,” said Cmdr. John Kennedy, commander, EOD Mobile Unit 8. “Exercises like Sea Breeze allow us to share our knowledge, techniques, and best practices with our NATO Allies and partners for enhanced agility and interoperability in future mine countermeasure operations and demining the Black Sea.”

    Since Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022, Allied and partner nations have counter charged over 100 floating mines. As this threat increases, EOD forces have a responsibility to prepare for a large-scale post-conflict demining effort.

    “Our goal for this year’s Sea Breeze is to improve freedom of navigation in the Black Sea region for the security and stability of the Black Sea nations,” said Vice Adm. Thomas Ishee, commander, U.S. 6th Fleet. “We’ll do this through continued training and by enhancing interoperability to counter the floating mine threat in the Black Sea.”

    The mines in the Black Sea region pose a significant danger to civilian ships, disrupt exports, and threaten freedom of navigation.

    “Due to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, there is currently a mine concern in international waters, and our job is to mitigate that,” said Kennedy. “We’ve shown our standards to our partners and allies, we’ve practiced our techniques shoulder-to-shoulder, and that builds confidence when we are called to mitigate explosive threats in the Black Sea. Our support to Ukraine has never been stronger.”

    In response to the current mine threat, NATO members Bulgaria, Romania, and Türkiye joined forces to tackle this issue through the Mine Countermeasures Task Group Black Sea (MCM Black Sea).

    Collaboration between NATO members in support of MCM Task Group Black Sea underscores the importance of collective security efforts to restore safety and stability in the region.

    Multinational exercises like Sea Breeze are a tangible representation of the agility and cooperation made possible through partnership in the dynamic security environment of the Black Sea.

    “The greatest value we’ve gained from Sea Breeze is an understanding how each unit of action operates, and then learning to operate together in order to be the most lethal combined force in a future conflict,” said Lt. Jon Miller, EOD company commander, EODMU 8. “We’re able to enhance the tactics, techniques, and procedures of all participating units at the exercise, and then flex those capabilities in the event of real-world operations.”

    Mobile Diving and Salvage Unit (MDSU) 2, a subordinate command of EODGRU 2, is also participating in Sea Breeze 24-3, with a focus on diving and salvage training. MDS Company 2-3, currently deployed to U.S. 6th Fleet, trained alongside partners and Allies from Ukraine and Romania on surface supplied diving, underwater cutting and welding, and other skills to enhance harbor clearance and battle damage repair capabilities.

    “Operating and exchanging knowledge on battle damage repair in this area of operations is our unit’s first opportunity to train the techniques and capabilities in a region with real world implications,” said Chief Navy Diver Michael Christensen, company master diver, MDSU 2. “We are in the Black Sea, doing this with the Ukrainian salvage divers, and their military is currently engaged in conflict. After Sea Breeze, they can return to the fight and utilize these skills for harbor clearance.”

    Navy EOD is the only community with mine warfare as a core competency, and our capabilities directly support deterrence of aggression, promote freedom of navigation and stability, and contribute directly to the fight for sea control. Our unique ability to conduct explosive ordnance disposal operations and clear hazards underwater make Navy EOD crucial in a future fight for sea control – protecting our own and our partners’ bases, harbors and sea lanes, sea transport capabilities, mobility and combat strength.

    CTF 68 provides explosive ordnance disposal operations, naval construction, expeditionary security, and theater security efforts in the 6th Fleet area of responsibility.

    EODGRU 2 operates as part of Navy Expeditionary Combat Command and provides skilled, capable, and combat-ready deployable Navy EOD and Navy Diver forces around the globe to support a range of operations.

    Details of Sea Breeze 2024 activities and imagery are available at http://www.c6f.navy.mil and https://www.dvidshub.net/feature/seabreeze24.

    For the full collection of photos of EODGRU2 operating at Sea Breeze 2024, and news about U.S. Navy EOD, visit https://www.dvidshub.net/unit/EODG-2.

    MIL Security OSI –

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

    Source: United States Navy

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: U.S., Egyptian Naval Forces Conducts Inaugural Eagle Defender Exercise in Red Sea

    Source: United States Navy

    For the first time, U.S. and Egyptian naval forces integrated unmanned systems in a bilateral maritime exercise to uphold the international rules-based order while ensuring maritime security in the Red Sea. Scenarios included: explosive ordnance disposal, mine countermeasures, harbor defense, and the integration of unmanned systems.

    The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Michael Murphy (DDG 112) sailed alongside Egyptian Navy ships during the exercise while several other units also participated.

    This is one of many exercises the U.S. military participates in every year with partner nations in the Middle East to enhance partnerships and strengthen interoperability. The combined exercise is designed to broaden levels of cooperation, support long-term regional security, and enhance Egyptian Naval Force interoperability with U.S. naval forces.

    The U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations encompasses nearly 2.5 million square miles of water area and includes the Arabian Gulf, Gulf of Oman, Red Sea, parts of the Indian Ocean and three critical choke points at the Strait of Hormuz, Suez Canal and Bab al-Mandeb.

    For more information, contact U.S. Naval Forces Central Command Public Affairs at m-ba-cusnc-publicaffairs@us.navy.mil.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Alaska Congressional Delegation Welcomes $277 Million in Fishery Disaster Funding for Alaska

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alaska Lisa Murkowski
    09.23.24
    Washington, DC – U.S. Senators Lisa Murkowski and Dan Sullivan (both R-AK) and Representative Mary Sattler Peltola (D-AK) welcomed the announcement of $277 million in funding for Alaska fishery disasters from the U.S. Department of Commerce. Funding for a number of salmon and crab fisheries from 2020-2023 will be transmitted to the Pacific States Marine Fisheries Commission for distribution to fishermen, their crews, seafood processors, and communities impacted by these fishery disasters.
    “There is no question that fisheries and coastal communities in Alaska need help as they navigate catastrophic fishery collapses,” Senator Murkowski said. “Although I am grateful our fishermen and communities will finally see some relief, for many it might be too little too late. After years of waiting, some have already moved onto other professions, and in some cases have even left the state. I will continue working with my colleagues to pass legislation to streamline the process so these regulatory delays are a thing of the past. I am hopeful this assistance will help Alaska’s hardworking fishermen recover from a devastating few years so they can get back on the water and return to their active role in this critical industry.”
    “I’m glad to see this significant batch of federal relief dollars finally being distributed to our hard-working fishermen and coastal communities,” said Senator Sullivan. “These Alaskans should never have had to wait this long to see this relief processed—a frustration I raised with Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo and NOAA Fisheries Director Janet Coit on numerous occasions in recent months. The Commerce Department must address the serious disruptions caused by their new financial management system and other bureaucratic hurdles. I have put forward legislation with Senator Rick Scott to enact timelines on the executive branch’s approval process for these disasters to ensure our fishermen are receiving the relief dollars they are due in a timely fashion. We need this funding to expeditiously reach Alaskans so that they can weather these disasters over the long-term and continue to responsibly harvest the freshest, most sustainable seafood in the world.”
    “Our fishermen and fishing families have suffered enough the last few years – when disaster strikes, it only sets us back further,” said Rep. Peltola. “This funding is critical in helping our fisheries recover and support the communities all over Alaska, and beyond, that rely on their seafood product output.”

    Fishery Disaster

    Allocation

    Alaska Gulf of Pacific Cod Fishery 2020

    $17,772,540

    Alaska 2018 East Side Setnet Salmon and 2020 Upper Cook Inlet Salmon Fisheries
    Alaska Copper River and Prince William Sound Salmon Fisheries, 2018 and 2020

    $43,730,937

    Alaska Bering Sea Crab Fisheries, 2021/2022
    Alaska Norton Sound Red King Crab Fisheries, 2020 and 2021
    Alaska Bering Sea Crab Fisheries, 2022/2023

    $193,915,406

    Alaska Chignik Salmon Fishery, 2021

    $4,989,902

    Alaska Norton Sound Salmon Fisheries 2021
    Alaska Kuskokwim River Salmon Fishery, 2021
    Alaska Copper River/Prince William Sound Salmon Fisheries, 2020

    $16,998,673

    Background:
    On November 15, 2022, the Alaska delegation sent a letter to Secretary Raimondo in support of Governor Dunleavy’s 2020-2023 fishery disasters declarations.
    On November 17, 2022, Senators Murkowski and Sullivan, along with Senators Cantwell and Murray (both D-Wash.), sent a letter to Secretary Raimondo requesting a federal disaster for several crab fisheries.
    On December 16, 2022, the Department of Commerce determined that fishery disasters have occurred in numerous Alaska fisheries, allowing this funding to be distributed to fishermen and their crews, seafood processors, and research initiatives in regions that experienced fishery disasters.
    On May 15, 2024, Senator Murkowski pressed Secretary Raimondo during a Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Appropriations to share an update regarding fisheries disaster funding.
    On May 23, 2024, Senator Sullivan organized and Senator Murkowski and Representative Peltola participated in an Alaska Seafood Industry Roundtable with Secretary Raimondo at the U.S. Department of Commerce to facilitate dialogue between state industry leaders and the Department.
    On September 4, 2024, Sens. Murkowski and Sullivan joined Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and several colleagues in sending a letter to the Department of Commerce (DOC) demanding answers regarding the implementation of the DOC’s new financial management system that has delayed financial relief for fishery disasters.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Vermont Delegation Introduces Bill to Redraw Boundaries of the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historic Park in Woodstock

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Vermont Congressional Delegation, Senator Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.), and Representative Becca Balint (VT-At-Large) introduced the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park Establishment Act Amendments Act, legislation that extends the boundary of the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historic Park to include the neighboring King Farm, which is currently owned by the Vermont Land Trust.  
    “The Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park is a treasure for Vermont and our nation,” said Senator Sanders. “Vermont’s forests and working farms have always been vital to our economy and critical to our character as a state. I’m pleased this bill will continue Vermont’s conservation legacy by expanding this park and helping to conserve land for agriculture, forestry, and educational purposes for future generations.” 
    “The Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park is a unique example of how decades of conservation and stewardship have shaped our landscape and Vermont Values. As Vermont’s first and only national park, this park plays an important role in conserving and educating folks about out state’s rich agricultural heritage,” said Senator Welch. “By expanding the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller NHP to include the King Farm, our bill will create new enrichment opportunities and ensure that future generations can continue to enjoy and appreciate this historical treasure.” 
    “In Vermont, we care deeply about the preservation, stewardship, and the future of our parks and lands,” said Rep. Balint. “I’m proud to take action to strengthen this partnership and ensure that King Farm has the resources it needs for trail maintenance, conservation, and land management. I’m grateful to work with Senator Welch and Sanders and our shared commitment to our state’s outdoor recreation.” 
    Located in Woodstock, the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller NHP preserves a significant historical, agricultural, and natural landscape. The Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller NHP became Vermont’s first and only national park when it opened its doors to the public in 1998. The Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller NHP commemorates the historical contributions of its namesakes—George Perkins Marsh, Frederick Billings, and Mary French Rockefeller—preserves Vermont’s proud agricultural heritage, and conserves native forestland ecosystems. It also provides countless educational opportunities for visitors, protects archaeological sites, and showcases historic architecture. 
    The Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park Establishment Act Amendments Act would expand resources for the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller NHP’s Stewardship Institute to support educational programing, research, community engagement, and conservation efforts. Additionally, the bill would authorize the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller NHP to acquire the King Farm from willing property owners in the future, without requiring its sale. 
    The Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park Establishment Act Amendments Act is endorsed by the Vermont Land Trust and has the support of the Town of Woodstock: 
    “The Town of Woodstock is happy with this legislation as we have an outstanding and cooperative relationship with the National Park Service and our residents enjoy all the activities and services they currently offer,” said Eric Duffy, Municipal Manager, Town of Woodstock. “The Park is a massive tourist draw and a vital part of our community.” 
    “We welcome the opportunity to partner more closely with NPS in enhancing access to land and programming at King Farm. The timing aligns perfectly with our efforts to raise funds and invest in King Farm, alongside community partners,” said Tracy Zschau, President and CEO, Vermont Land Trust. 
    Learn more about the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park Establishment Act Amendments Act. 
    Read the full text of the bill. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NASA Astronaut Tracy C. Dyson, Crewmates Return from Space Station

    Source: NASA

    NASA astronaut Tracy C. Dyson completed a six-month research mission aboard the International Space Station on Monday, returning to Earth with Roscosmos cosmonauts Oleg Kononenko and Nikolai Chub.
    The trio departed the space station aboard the Soyuz MS-25 spacecraft at 4:36 a.m. EDT Monday, Sept. 23, making a safe, parachute-assisted landing at 7:59 a.m. (4:59 p.m. Kazakhstan time), southeast of the remote town of Dzhezkazgan, Kazakhstan.
    While aboard the orbiting laboratory, Dyson conducted multiple scientific and technology activities including the operation of a 3D bioprinter to print cardiac tissue samples, which could advance technology for creating replacement organs and tissues for transplants on Earth. Dyson also participated in the crystallization of model proteins to evaluate the performance of hardware that could be used for pharmaceutical production and ran a program that used student-designed software to control the station’s free-flying robots, inspiring the next generation of innovators.
    Dyson launched on March 23 and arrived at the station March 25 alongside Roscosmos cosmonaut Oleg Novitskiy and spaceflight participant Marina Vasilevskaya of Belarus. Novitskiy and Vasilevskaya were aboard the station for 12 days before returning home with NASA astronaut Loral O’Hara on April 6.
    Spanning 184 days in space, Dyson’s third spaceflight covered 2,944 orbits of the Earth and a journey of 78 million miles as an Expedition 70/71 flight engineer. Dyson also conducted one spacewalk of 31 minutes, bringing her career total to 23 hours, 20 minutes on four spacewalks.
    Kononenko and Chub, who launched with O’Hara to the station on the Soyuz MS-24 spacecraft last September, spent 374 days in space on a trip of 158.6 million miles, spanning 5,984 orbits. Kononenko completed his fifth flight into space, accruing a record of 1,111 days in orbit, and Chub completed his first spaceflight.
    Following post-landing medical checks, the crew will return to the recovery staging city in Karaganda, Kazakhstan. Dyson will then board a NASA plane bound for the agency’s Johnson Space Center in Houston.
    Learn more about space station activities by following @space_station and @ISS_Research on X, as well as the ISS Facebook, ISS Instagram, and the space station blog.
    -end-
    Claire O’Shea / Julian ColtreHeadquarters, Washington202-358-1100claire.a.o’shea@nasa.gov / julian.n.coltre@nasa.gov
    Sandra JonesJohnson Space Center, Houston281-483-5111sandra.p.jones@nasa.gov

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Sue Altman flip-flops on police

    Source: US National Republican Congressional Committee

    The following text contains opinion that is not, or not necessarily, that of MIL-OSI –

    September 23, 2024

    In case you missed it… New York Post reported last week that extreme Democrat Sue Altman scrubbed her old tweets advocating for defunding the police. 

    This comes as she tried to distance herself in a recent interview but the internet lasts forever. 

    Read more here and below.

    NJ Dem House candidate Sue Altman flip-flops on police and public safety in resurfaced social media posts

    New York Post

    September 19, 2024

    New Jersey House Democratic candidate Sue Altman has disavowed several anti-law enforcement policies — including the “Defund the Police” movement — that she backed in past social media posts.

    The former boss of the Garden State’s progressive Working Families Party has modified her past stances, telling NJ Spotlight News in an interview last week that she is “not in favor of defund the police.”

    […]

    But as her campaign to unseat Republican Rep. Tom Kean in New Jersey’s 7th District was heating up last fall, a Democratic campaign operative tweeted out a screenshot showing she supported defunding the police — a post that has since been deleted.

    “NJ’s Sheriffs … are overwhelmingly white and male, snuggled in w[ith] our massive county government, and control HUGE budgets,” Altman posted on Twitter, now X.

    “Those of us working on #DefundThePolice in Jersey might consider looking here,” she added.

    The screenshot did not include a date, but the profile image matches Altman’s Twitter profile photo between 2019 and 2021, according to archived posts from her account.

    […]

    The Altman campaign did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

    […]

    Read the full article here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Zoë Garbett response to Met’s ‘Race Action Plan’: If anti-racism starts now, how have officers been policing in the meantime?

    Source: Mayor of London

    In response to the Metropolitan Police (Met) announcement of a new Race Action Plan, which promises a “communities-first, frontline focused, inclusive” policing model for Londoners, Green Party London Assembly Member Committee Zoë Garbett issued the following statement: 

    “I want to express my respect for the efforts of the many Londoners who contributed to the development of this new policy.  

    “However, I am deeply concerned that it has taken the Met almost two years to take a stand against racism after Baroness Casey’s initial report. Additionally, I fear that this new plan fails to address the most important demands of Londoners.  

    “The data is clear. Londoners do not want safer strip-searching policies for children: they want to prohibit strip-searching of all children.  

    “Overcoming the entrenched racism in the Met will require much more than just a shiny press release.” 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

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

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Apply for the bootcamp at: markcubanai.org.

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

    To learn more, visit markcubanai.org.

    Media Contact:
    Bishop.wash@markcubanai.org

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

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

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Polytechnic at the international forum “Partnership Days” in Samarkand

    MIL OSI Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University – Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University –

    The delegation of the Polytechnic University visited the forum “Partnership Days”. It was held on the day of the celebration of the foundation (September 21, 1420) of the Samarkand State University.

    SSU is one of the key partners of our university, with which research activities are carried out with the release of joint high-quartile publications in international co-authorship, exchange of postgraduate students and interns, holding summer schools. In 2023, a joint scientific, educational and technological center, as well as SPbPU and SSU signed a partnership agreement and a roadmap for 2023-2025.

    Festive events, various exhibitions and intellectual games were held in Samarkand. A parade of faculties took place, where students presented their achievements in science and education.

    A solemn ceremony dedicated to the university’s birthday was held at the Samarkand Youth Center. Head of the International Education Department Evgeniya Satalkina handed over a congratulatory note from the rector of SPbPU, academician of the Russian Academy of Sciences Andrey Rudskoy.

    Samarkand State University is the flagship of the education system of Uzbekistan, one of the leading scientific clusters, providing its unique potential and atmosphere for educating a new generation in the spirit of careful attitude to national traditions, but relying on advanced knowledge and the latest technologies. Our universities are good partners and good friends. Professors, staff and students of SPbPU and SSU are in close interaction and successfully carry out joint activities in many areas, – noted Evgeniya Vasilyevna.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    http://www.spbstu.ru/media/nevs/international_activize/polytech-at-the-international-forum-partner-days-in-Samarkand/

    EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and or sentence structure not be perfect.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Offers Disaster Assistance to Businesses and Residents of Illinois Affected by July Storms

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    WASHINGTON – Low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) are available to businesses and residents in Illinois following the announcement of a Presidential disaster declaration for severe storms, tornadoes, straight-line winds and flooding that occurred on July 13-16.

    “SBA’s mission-driven team stands ready to help Illinois small businesses and residents impacted by this disaster in every way possible under President Biden’s disaster declaration for certain affected areas,” said SBA Administrator Isabel Casillas Guzman. “We’re committed to providing federal disaster loans swiftly and efficiently, with a customer-centric approach to help businesses and communities recover and rebuild.”

    The disaster declaration covers Cook, Fulton, Henry, St. Clair, Washinton, Will and Winnebago counties which are eligible for both Physical and Economic Injury Disaster Loans from the SBA. Small businesses and most private nonprofit organizations in the following adjacent counties are eligible to apply only for SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDLs):  Boone, Bureau, Clinton, Dekalb, DuPage, Grundy, Jefferson, Kane, Kankakee, Kendell, Knox, Lake, Madison, Marion, Mason, McDonough, McHenry, Mercer, Monroe, Ogle, Peoria, Perry, Randolph, Rock Island, Schuyler, Stark, Stephenson, Tazewell, Warren and Whiteside in Illinois; Lake in Indiana; St. Louis in Missouri; and Green and Rock in Wisconsin. 

    Disaster survivors should not wait to settle with their insurance company before applying for a disaster loan. If a survivor does not know how much of their loss will be covered by insurance or other sources, SBA can make a low-interest disaster loan for the total loss up to its loan limits, provided the borrower agrees to use insurance proceeds to reduce or repay the loan.

    Businesses and private nonprofit organizations of any size may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace disaster-damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory, and other business assets.  

    For small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small businesses engaged in aquaculture and most private nonprofit organizations, the SBA offers Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDLs) to help meet working capital needs caused by the disaster. Economic Injury Disaster Loan assistance is available regardless of whether the business suffered any physical property damage.

    Disaster loans up to $500,000 are available to homeowners to repair or replace disaster-damaged or destroyed real estate. Homeowners and renters are eligible for up to $100,000 to repair or replace disaster-damaged or destroyed personal property.

    Interest rates are as low as 4% for businesses, 3.25% for nonprofit organizations, and 2.688% for homeowners and renters, with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not begin to accrue, and monthly payments are not due, until 12 months from the date of the initial disbursement. Loan amounts and terms are set by the SBA and are based on each applicant’s financial condition.

    Building back smarter and stronger can be an effective recovery tool for future disasters. Applicants may be eligible for a loan amount increase of up to 20% of their physical damages, as verified by the SBA for mitigation purposes. Eligible mitigation improvements may include a safe room or storm shelter, sump pump, French drain or retaining wall to help protect property and occupants from future disasters. 

    “The opportunity to include measures to help prevent future damage from occurring is a significant benefit of SBA’s disaster loan program, said “Francisco Sánchez, Jr., associate administrator for the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the Small Business Administration.  “I encourage everyone to consult their contractors and emergency management mitigation specialists for ideas and apply for an SBA disaster loan increase for funding.”

    With the changes to FEMA’s Sequence of Delivery, survivors are now encouraged to simultaneously apply for FEMA grants and the SBA low-interest disaster loan assistance to fully recover.  FEMA grants are intended to cover necessary expenses and serious needs not paid by insurance or other sources. The SBA disaster loan program is designed for your long-term recovery, to make you whole and get you back to your pre-disaster condition.  Do not wait on the decision for a FEMA grant; apply online and receive additional disaster assistance information at sba.gov/disaster.  

    Applicants may also call the SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or send an email to disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

    The filing deadline to return applications for physical property damage is Nov. 19, 2024. The deadline to return economic injury applications is June 20, 2025.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration 

    The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow or expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

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

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    The MIL Network –

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

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Apply for the bootcamp at: markcubanai.org.

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

    To learn more, visit markcubanai.org.

    Media Contact:
    Bishop.wash@markcubanai.org

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

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

    The MIL Network –

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

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Apply for the bootcamp at: markcubanai.org.

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

    To learn more, visit markcubanai.org.

    Media Contact:
    Bishop.wash@markcubanai.org

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

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

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The Academic Council of the State University of Management discussed the results of the summer session

    MIL OSI Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: State University of Management – Official website of the State –

    On September 23, 2024, a meeting of the Academic Council of the State University of Management was held.

    We started with congratulations to the birthday girl of September, member of the Council, head of the project management department Irina Brikoshina.

    The consideration of the agenda items began with a summary of the results of the summer examination session of the 2023/2024 academic year, which was reported by the head of the Unified Electronic Dean’s Office of the University, Natalia Tymchuk.

    “More than 89% of bachelors successfully completed their exams, with the percentage of excellent students increasing and the number of C students decreasing,” Natalia noted.

    Further at the meeting, the chairmen of the certification committees for additional professional education programs for the 2024 calendar year were approved.

    The directors of the Institute of Marketing and the Institute of Industry Management made proposals to make changes to the composition of the Academic Council of the Institutes, which were supported.

    The Academic Council also approved the educational program for training scientific and scientific-pedagogical personnel in the postgraduate program “Economics of Innovations” and the opening of additional professional education at the Pre-University to prepare for the Unified State Exam in Geography.

    In addition, a number of working issues were considered at the meeting, including the provision of financial assistance to students.

    Subscribe to the TG channel “Our GUU” Date of publication: 09.23.2024

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    The Academic Council of the State University of Management discussed the results of the summer session

    EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and or sentence structure not be perfect.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Translation: In Cuba, Vietnamese parliamentary delegation

    THOUSAND OSI Translation. Region: Spanish/Latin America/UN –

    Source: Republic of Cuba

    Vietnamese parliamentary delegation in CubaHavana, September 22, 2024.- The Vice President of the National Assembly of Vietnam, Nguyen Duc Hai, is in Cuba, leading a large delegation from his country, to participate in the First Binational Interparliamentary Session.According to the National Assembly of People’s Power of Cuba (ANPP, parliament), during their stay, Duc Hai and his entourage will hold talks with leaders of the Legislature and the Council of State, including its president Esteban Lazo.They will also visit centers of economic, historical, scientific and cultural interest; Among other activities. Upon their arrival the day before at the José Martí International Airport in Havana, the legislators were received by the Hero of the Republic and member of the Council of State, Gerardo Hernández, who conveyed to them the fraternal greetings of the head of the Cuban Parliament and other members of the ANPP leadership. He also stressed that it is an honor to preside over the Cuba-Vietnam Parliamentary Group, belonging to a generation that grew up admiring the heroism of the Vietnamese people. For his part, Duc Hai expressed his great joy at visiting Cuba for the second time; this time to work “with our Cuban brothers,” fulfilling the request of the president of the Vietnamese National Assembly, Tran Thanh Man. Vu Hai Ha, president of the Foreign Relations Commission of the Vietnamese legislative body and of the Vietnam-Cuba Parliamentary Friendship Group, also participated in the dialogue. (Cubaminrex-Granma)

    EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI Africa: A water secure Africa in the spotlight at UN General Assembly

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Water and Sanitation Minister, Pemmy Majodina, and a delegation of water sector stakeholders will attend the 79th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York, USA from 24 to 26 September 2024.

    The Minister will join other global leaders in interrogating and mobilising commitments for a water-secure Africa.

    President Cyril Ramaphosa is attending the UN General Debate and High-Level Week (UNGA79) in New York from 21-24 September 2024.

    This annual gathering of world leaders is the most important event on the UN calendar, with Heads of State and Government and Heads of International Organisations discussing global challenges and how to address these challenges in the best interest of humanity. 

    Majodina is expected to participate in panel discussions to review the progress in mobilising investments for the AU High Level Panel Investment Action Plan and outline a road map towards the coming AU Africa Water Investment Summit and UN Water Conference in 2026, with South Africa leading the G20 Presidency next year.

    As part of the AU High-Level Panel, Majodina said South Africa will participate in discussions and the review of previous UN recommendations on how to accelerate progress to achieve access and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all, as well as the achievement of other multiple SDGs.

    “The deliberations will focus on understanding, valuing, and managing water to provide a foundation for broader integrated water management and building partnerships and international collaboration at the global level,” Majodina said.

    The Minister is also expected to participate in panel discussions on Climate Change and Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH), to explore wider methods and opportunities to advance their agendas.

    READ | President Ramaphosa in New York for UN General Assembly

    President Ramaphosa is expected to address the General Assembly on the opening day, Tuesday, 24 September 2024.

    This year, the African Group presides over the General Assembly, with Philemon Yang, former Prime Minister of Cameroon, elected as President of the 79th Session.

    The theme identified by the President of UNGA79 is: “Unity in diversity, for the advancement of peace, sustainable development and human dignity for everyone everywhere.”

    Among the issues on which President Ramaphosa will focus on during his engagements in New York include the necessity for the maintenance of international peace and security; the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the implementation of the 2030 Agenda; climate change and the upcoming COP29 in Baku; financing for development, and health and pandemic preparedness. – SAnews.gov.za
     

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Secretary-General of ASEAN attends CAEXPO Welcome Banquet

    Source: ASEAN

    Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, this evening attended the China-ASEAN Expo (CAEXPO) Welcome Banquet, which brought together representatives from all participating nations of the 21st CAEXPO. The banquet was also attended by heads of delegation from ASEAN Member States and Observers, along with representatives from China and the United Arab Emirates, the Special Partner Country for the 21st CAEXPO.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI USA: IAM Union, TWU-IAM Association Win Pay, Pension Increases for 34,000+ American Airlines Members

    Source: US GOIAM Union

    More than 34,000 members of the TWU-IAM Association, a union alliance of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) and the Transport Workers’ Union (TWU) at American Airlines, will soon vote on well-deserved pay, pension, license and other premium increases.

    The Association’s negotiating committees reached tentative agreements with the carrier after roughly a month of negotiations. IAM Districts 141 and 142 represent mechanic and related, fleet service and related, and stores workers at American Airlines.

    The two-year proposed extension, from Jan. 1, 2025 to Jan. 1, 2027, includes:

    • Average wage increase for covered employees in January 2025 ranging from 10.8% to 16.7% and 18% to 26% over the life of the extension.
    • 3% out year increases in January 2026 and 2027 that also match the highest in the industry.
    • Several non-economic quality of life issues were also addressed.
    • Increases in License Pay, Skill Pay, and Crew Chief Pay.
    • Increases in IAM National Pension Plan contributions.
    • No concessions/givebacks.

    “The IAM continues to negotiate agreements that are fundamentally changing the landscape of the entire airline industry,” said IAM Air Transport Territory General Vice President Richie Johnsen. “By continuing to win contracts that push wages and retirement security to new heights, we are lifting every worker and community that makes the world move.”

    “Our negotiating committee showed up ready to achieve the pay, pension, license increases along with other premium increases that our members deserve – and they have delivered,” said IAM Airline Coordinator Tom Regan. “These increases at American Airlines are great news for the entire airline industry and every worker who deserves to be compensated fairly for their labor.”

    “IAM members are the people who make American Airlines run every single day,” said IAM District 142 President and Directing General Chair John M. Coveny Jr. “This agreement is a testament to our negotiating committee and the dedication of our skilled membership.”

    “The IAM is delivering well-deserved wage increases for every member at American Airlines,” said IAM District 141 President and Directing General Chair Mike Klemm. “Our strength and solidarity has never been more powerful, and we’re continuing to make history with every agreement in the airline industry.”

    In the coming weeks, IAM representatives will schedule in-person and virtual meetings to explain the agreement and voting process to members.

    The TWU-IAM Association, the largest union at the carrier, was formed after the merger of American Airlines and US Airways in 2012.

    Share and Follow:

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Call to celebrate Heritage Day responsibly   

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Monday, September 23, 2024

    With the country commemorating Heritage Day tomorrow, Gauteng Traffic Police (GTP) has called on citizens to practice responsible behaviour as they celebrate the public holiday. 

    “As we come together to celebrate our cultures, traditions, and diversity on Heritage Day, it is important to do so responsibly,” GTP spokesperson, Sello Maremane, said on Monday.

    During Heritage Month in September, South Africa celebrates the nation’s diverse culture and rich heritage.
    This year’s national Heritage Day on 24 September will be commemorated at Meqheleng Stadium in Ficksburg, in the Free State, under the theme: “Celebrating the lives of our heroes and heroines who laid down their lives for our freedom”.

    According to a Department of Sport, Arts and Culture statement earlier this month, this year’s theme puts a spotlight on South Africa’s liberation movements who received various forms of solidarity and support from neighbouring countries during the liberation struggle.

    The GTP urged citizens to celebrate with caution.

    “We encourage all citizens to do so responsibly and avoid taking part in unlawful activities such as public drinking, reckless and negligent driving, amongst other things,” said Maremane, adding that the Gauteng Traffic Police, together with the Gauteng Traffic Wardens and other law enforcement agencies will be on high alert to ensure safety on the road and in communities. 

    “We will continue to conduct law enforcement operations to address crime and lawlessness. Residents are encouraged to report any suspicious incidents to their nearest police station or contact the Gauteng hotline on 0800 22 88 27/ hotline@gauteng.gov.za,” he said. –SAnews.gov.za 

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Marine Corps crushes fiscal year 2024 end strength with historic retention, recruiting success

    Source: United States Marine Corps

    QUANTICO, Va. —

    The Marine Corps achieved historic first-term reenlistment numbers and exceeded its retention goal for Fiscal Year 2024 in a competitive and challenging environment.  Engaged leaders across the Marine Corps retained the most qualified Marines at levels not seen in over a decade. Additionally, these efforts contributed to the Marine Corps exceeding its authorized end strength requirement, which is a summation of recruiting and retention efforts.
     
    “This is a historic year for retention,” said Lieutenant General Michael J. Borgschulte, Deputy Commandant for Manpower & Reserve Affairs, Headquarters Marine Corps.  “We continue to maintain our high standards and exceeded our end strength requirement through successful retention and recruiting efforts. Our retention success increased the health of our delayed entry program for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic.”
     
    This year was historic for the Marine Corps because the Fiscal Year 2024 first-term reenlistment goal was the largest the service has seen in more than a decade. The Marine Corps not only attained 114% of its mission for first-term enlisted Marines but reenlisted over 5,700 subsequent-term Marines.
     
    This reflects the Marine Corps’ shift from its legacy, high turnover “recruit and replace” personnel model towards one characterized by a greater emphasis on “invest and retain” the most capable Marines. Recruiters continue to be responsible for recruiting the Nation’s best and brightest, while leaders across the Fleet Marine Force are charged with retaining the talented Marines already serving across the total force.
     
    “Retention directly enhances our service’s lethality,” said Borgschulte. “This year’s historic success in retaining the most highly qualified Marines is a ‘spike the football’ moment and is a testament to our engaged, people-focused leaders across the Marine Corps. Our continued success is evidence that our Marine Corps brand continues to resonate with the American public, that holding high standards matters, and that Marines want to stay on the winning team – The Marine Corps team!”
     
    Additional initiatives created more opportunities for Marines to ‘Stay Marine’ this year – from the Commandant’s Retention Program to lateral move opportunities in addition to selective retention bonuses for certain military occupational specialties. The Marine Corps doubled the number of Marines transitioning into the reserve component via the Direct Affiliation Program and tripled the number of prior-service Marines reentering the service. The various ways to ‘Stay Marine’ enhance the service’s readiness and warfighting capabilities.
     
    “Although this is a huge accomplishment, we have more work to do and cannot rest on our past successes. We must maintain the momentum into Fiscal Year 2025 and continue to prioritize our Marine Corps’ most valuable and lethal asset—its people,” said Borgschulte.

    For Fiscal Year 2025, the Marine Corps is already on track to exceed its Fiscal Year 2024 mission. This is largely due to the implementation of multi-year retention cohorts. Multi-year retention cohorts afford Marines the opportunity to reenlist prior to their end of contract fiscal year. These cohorts not only increase overall retention but give Marines and their families more predictability – which fuels the retention of talent.

    MIL Security OSI –

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

    Source: South Africa News Agency

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Flooding in Oxford

    Source: City of Oxford

    Monday, 23 September 2024

    Heavy rain is currently causing flooding in Oxford.

    Areas affected include Barton, Blackbird Leys, Risinghurst, Marston and Cowley.  The amount of rain over the last 36 hours has been exceptional. Oxford City Council and ODS are responding to the situation and staff will visit locations and assess the problem. 

    Further rain is expected through this afternoon. It is expected that the rain will ease off tomorrow but is likely to return on Wednesday, so residents should remain alert and prepare for the possibility of further flooding. 

    Sandbags 

    Neither the County Council nor the City Council provide sandbags to individual properties, except to vulnerable residents. We recommend therefore buying sandbags if your property is at risk. Sandbags can be purchased at most builders’ merchants, including Buildbase, Wickes, and B&Q. 

    For more information visit the Oxfordshire County Council flooding webpage.   

    For advice visit on how to protect your property visit the Oxfordshire Flood Toolkit website, the Oxford City Council Preparing for Floods webpage, and the GOV.UK flood preparation guidelines. 

    Tenants whose property is affected should call Customer Services on 01865 249811.   

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Testimonial Story I Editorial: Samsung Solve for Tomorrow 2024 Finals

    Source: Samsung

    Celebrating Samsung Mentors, Learners & Teachers in the 2024 Top 10 Finals
    The Samsung Solve For Tomorrow (SFT) Competition has now reached its Final stage and the electronics giant in collaboration with the State Information Technology Agency (SITA) and the Department of Basic Education (DBE) will host the Winner Announcement Ceremony at AHA Kopanong Hotel & Conferencing in Benoni on Wednesday, 02 October 2024.
     
    In an effort to recognise and celebrate the work done by the participating schools, Samsung took the time to speak to both learners and teachers from four finalist schools that entered the competition this year. The aim of the conversation was to ascertain how these participants felt about being part of the contest, how their experience has been and how their preparations were going before the prototype presentation in October. A crucial stage that would determine which school would end up walking away with the ultimate prize; and this is what they had to say:
     
    Nomfundo Manqele, a learner from Adams College in KwaZulu-Natal expressed how thrilled she was to be part of the finalist schools. However, from time to time she did experience a bit of anxiety and a roller coaster of emotions when she was reminded just how big the competition was. Nomfundo mentioned that it was both an incredible and hectic experience for both the teachers and learners as they all learnt new things, every day.
     

     
    She also admitted to the fact that they also faced many challenges along the way, but overall, it was an affirming experience. Nomfundo added by saying: “Preparations for our final prototype are currently underway and coming along quite nicely. Although, we have encountered many challenges in this journey, we somehow found a way to persevere. In spite of the challenges, I am certain that the win is coming to KZN considering the effort we put into crafting our masterpiece.”
    To date, we’ve learnt quite a lot in this competition and one of the lessons that stands out for us and one that we will forever hold onto is that: “In life, if you want to go far, go together. Nothing beats working well as a team and having a great leader that will lead you to victory through healthy competition and teamwork.”
     
    Nomfundo’s words of encouragement to schools that haven’t yet entered the contest are: “This is a really challenging contest that requires hard work and dedication, so always bear that in mind. However, in a competition arena, resilience separates winners from the rest. There are no winners or losers, only learners – nothing more, nothing less.”

    Amyoli Resha, a grade 11 learner from Khwezi Lomso Comprehensive School at Zwide township in Gqeberha, Eastern Cape said: “Entering the Samsung SFT competition and even becoming a finalist makes me feel very ecstatic.
     
    “This competition and this milestone has brought a sense of pride, considering the fact that we are the only school in the Eastern Cape to make it to the Top 20 & Top 10, we definitely embody the spirit of the Home of Legends.”
     
    He added that it has been quite a wonderful, yet very challenging experience. From the start of the programme, their team has enjoyed a great deal of support from the entire school and its faculty. And this unwavering support is what got the team through all the challenges they faced during the process leading up to where it is today.
     
    Amyoli confidently said that the preparations for the prototype were going quite smoothly. “The team is not in panic mode because we were told that the final product may take some time to materialise into perfection. However, by the look of things and the confidence we possess – the team is more than convinced that we WILL definitely Bring the Win Home,” he added.
     
    Above all, the competition has taught the whole team from Khwezi Lomso – the importance of teamwork and believing that their combined proposals and ideas can actually make a large impact. Amyoli then called upon all schools to enter this competition so that they can unleash their learners’ potential because this contest will give them the opportunity to advance and explore their imaginations.
     
    Zandile Sonandze, a teacher also from Khwezi Lomso Comprehensive School in Gqeberha in the Eastern Cape said that she’s very excited because they didn’t think that they could get this far in the competition, especially as a new entry. She said that, as an educator, the entire team’s confidence has been boosted enough to enter other competitions. “When we first entered the SFT competition, we didn’t even think that we would be selected for the first round, but look at us now,” Zandile exclaimed.
     
    According to this enthusiastic teacher: “This experience has been exciting and overwhelming at the same time, because everything had to go as planned. Our learners are also excited to be in the Finals and for the opportunity to fly to Johannesburg. Our educators and the entire school are also cheering for us – they are all very proud of how far we’ve come.”
     
    Zandile also explained that the preparations are not yet 100%, and that there are still some finer details they are trying to wrap-up in an effort to help the team to win the competition. However, she said that they are trying their best to be as creative as possible – the team is now just hoping for the best. She has also taken the time to encourage other schools to enter the competition as this has been an eye opening experience for their entire school.
     
    Phume Unarine, a learner and group leader from Thengwe High school located in the Limpopo Province said that she’s very happy and looking forward to what the finals have in store for them. For Phume and her team, this has been one of the most interesting and exciting experiences that the learners, teachers and their whole school has participated in.
     

     
    “The preparations for our prototype went according to our plans,” Phume added confidently. “We’ve faced every obstacle that came our way with the full support of our mentor whose support has been crucial to us reaching this stage of the competition. I have confidence in my team and I’m convinced that we’re going to come out victorious.”
    During this competition, we learnt that people aren’t the same and their differences are what makes them unique. She added that she learnt that teamwork is not only about being part of a group and that a great leader is made by the motivated people around him or her. I’d like to advise other schools that have not yet participated in this contest to take a leap of faith and enter because this will help them discover more knowledge and open them up to new experiences that they wouldn’t be able to get anywhere else.
     
    Makhosazana Mazibuko, a learner and team leader from Mandisa Shiceka School of Specialisation in Gauteng appreciated being part of the SFT competition and found the contest to be a very exciting experience that she thoroughly enjoyed. She also saw this as an opportunity to improve her community. For Makhosazana, the competition was full of research and helped their team members to create lasting bonds. As far as preparation for the prototype presentation is concerned, she said: “It’s going very well, we are productive and are dealing with our trial and errors very well. Our idea involves one of the basic necessities in our community and is unique, so I’m very confident that we will win.”

    During this competition, Makhosazana believes that she learnt how to be patient, how to “turn down” ideas and how to be a better leader. Overall, she’s learnt to be kinder and more understanding with circumstances, peers, adults and above all herself. She also feels that her presentation skills have improved and that she’s gained more confidence, in herself and her intellect.
     
    And lastly, Nonki Bridgette Motlogelwa, an educator from Mandisa Shiceka – a Gauteng-based Maths, Science & ICT School of Specialisation, with a focus in mining and manufacturing said: “As a new entry, I feel so honoured and grateful to be part of the competition. Over the last few months, we put in so much effort into our idea and to know that it is being appreciated – has truly made us feel on top of the world. Now, we feel like we can do anything as long as we put our minds to it.” 
     
    Nonki expressed how proud and blown away she was by the learners from her school. She explained how they have shown so much courage, creativity and teamwork, a clear indication that they are heading in the right direction. During the competition process, the learners started feeling the pressure but fortunately they pulled through and decided to do hydroponics. This technique involves growing plants using water-based nutrient solution rather than soil.
     
    When it was announced that the school is in the top 10, the entire school was so happy, this has motivated other school learners to want to enter next year. Having a Samsung mentor as well, she believes, made this challenging experience much easier, because she was able to guide the team through.
    For Nonki, the overall experience was amazing and thought-provoking. She also confirmed that their preparations for the prototype presentation are going well, the learners are putting their all and their teamwork is superb. The learners were also able to alternate themselves in terms of building the prototype and preparations for the final presentation. 
     
    Nonki is encouraging learners from other schools who have not yet participated in this SFT competition to always take chances and believe in themselves, because the future is in their hands. “Because all the learners have the brains and creativity, its important to let them shine and show the world that every individual deserves an equal opportunity to succeed, regardless of their background or circumstances,” concluded Nonki.
     

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

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

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    About EquityZen

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

    Media Contact

    Deborah Kostroun, Zito Partners

    +1 (201) 403-8185

    deborah@zitopartners.com

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

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Americas: Record wildfires in South America Require an Unprecedented Response

    Source: Amnesty International –

    In response to record fires across South America, with several millions of hectares burning across the Amazon basin and the entire continent, Amnesty International today published an Open Letter addressed to the presidents of Argentina, Brazil, Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, Paraguay and Peru calling for governments to ramp up action to extinguish wildfires, strengthen efforts to abandon fossil fuels, protect territories of Indigenous Peoples, and provide guarantees to environmental human rights defenders.  

    August and September 2024 have seen record fires across South America, with several millions of hectares burning not only in rainforests of the Amazon basin, but also in diverse ecosystems stretching across entire countries.

    “The world is watching and cannot wait for the Amazon basin and other precious ecosystems in the continent to be saved from extinction. South American leaders must, more than ever, take urgent action to prevent climate catastrophe that could have irreversible consequences for the entire planet and future generations. The time to act is now,” said Ana Piquer, directora para las Américas de Amnistía Internacional.

    The world is watching and cannot wait for the Amazon basin and other precious ecosystems in the continent to be saved from extinction. South American leaders must, more than ever, take urgent action to prevent climate catastrophe that could have irreversible consequences for the entire planet and future generations. The time to act is now.

    Ana Piquer, directora para las Américas de Amnistía Internacional.

    The publication of the Open Letter coincides with the United Nations´ Summit of the Future, in New York on 23 September, which will be attended by. Amnesty International´s Secretary General Agnès Callamard.

    For more information or to arrange an interview, please contact [email protected]

    MIL OSI NGO –

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

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

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

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

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

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

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

    Learn more about Sprout Social here.

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

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

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

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

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

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

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Broadcom Delivers Industry Leading 200G/lane DSP for Gen AI Infrastructure

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    PALO ALTO, Calif., Sept. 23, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Broadcom Inc. (NASDAQ: AVGO) today announced the general availability of Sian™2, 200 Gbps per lane (200G/lane) PAM-4 DSP PHY. Sian2 features 200G/lane electrical and optical interfaces to augment the Sian DSP that supports 100 Gbps electrical and 200Gbps optical interfaces. Sian and Sian2 DSPs enable pluggable modules with 200G/lane interfaces that are foundational to connect next generation AI clusters.

    AI cluster sizes and cluster performance needs are growing dramatically to support exploding AI model sizes. High performance, low latency, and resilient connectivity are vital for the scale-up and scale-out of next generation AI clusters. For these networks, customers demand reliable optical network connectivity with higher bandwidth, lower power, lower latency and lower cost. This necessitates the migration from the 400G/800G links with 100G/lane optics being used in AI clusters today to 800G/1.6T links with 200G/lane optics that Sian2 enables. Broadcom’s Sian2 and Sian DSPs are optimized for 800G and 1.6T optical module platforms and deliver unmatched performance by doubling the bandwidth with lower power, lower latency and lower cost per bit to facilitate AI data center scale.

    “200G/lane DSP is foundational to high-speed optical links for next generation scale-up and scale-out networks in the AI infrastructure,” said Vijay Janapaty, vice president and general manager of the Physical Layer Products Division at Broadcom. “The Sian family of products reinforces Broadcom’s leadership in optical DSP PHYs and enables our AI data center customers to deploy high-performance 800G and 1.6T links.”

    Further, the combination of Sian2 and Sian PHY and Broadcom’s leading-edge 200G/lane optics, including electro-absorption modulated laser (EML) and continuous wave laser (CWL), provides the best-in-class performance and power consumption enabling data center operators to cost-effectively scale AI workloads.

    “AI market leaders will start ramping optical modules using 200G/lane in 2025,” commented Dr. Vlad Kozlov, CEO and Chief Analyst at LightCounting. “There is a race for dominance in AI fueling a demand for delivery in excess of 1M units of 1.6T optical transceivers within the first 12 months. We have never seen new products ramping at such rate.”

    Sian2 Product Highlights:

    • Low power 5nm 200G/lane DSP solution enabling sub-28W 1.6T transceivers
    • Supports 800G and 1.6T pluggable modules
    • Support for both 212.5-Gb/s and 226.875-Gb/s data rates for InfiniBand and Ethernet applications
    • Support for multiple FEC options including Bypass, Segmented and Concatenated FEC
    • Built-in low-swing and high-swing laser driver for both SiP and EML based optical modules
    • Sub-80ns roundtrip (Ingress + Egress) latency for AI/ML applications
    • Crossbar support for ease of transceiver design

    Demo Showcase at ECOC 2024
    Broadcom Sian2 PHY and 200G/lane optics inside 1.6T DR8 optical modules will be demonstrated in the Innolight Booth B81 and Eoptolink Booth D60 taking place at ECOC Exhibition 2024, in Frankfurt, Germany from September 23-25. Attendees will see live transmit eye performance and end-to-end pre-FEC & post-FEC performance with IEEE compliant KP4 FEC.

    “Sian2 enables the design of high-speed optical transceivers for next generation switches, network interface cards and accelerators with 200G SerDes interfaces,” said Richard Huang, CEO, Eoptolink Technology. “The Broadcom Sian2 DSP and Eoptolink’s innovative transceiver design approach results in performance leading 1.6T pluggable optical transceivers. Combined with Eoptolink’s high volume manufacturing capability, this ensures the supply for the growing bandwidth in AI networks.”

    “InnoLight is leading the industry’s transition to 1.6T with the lowest power transceiver solutions, leveraging Broadcom’s Sian2 DSP,” said Hai Ding, VP of Marketing, InnoLight Technology. “As engineering pioneers, we’re redefining optical networking with our cutting-edge innovations, and helping accelerate the deployments of 200G/lane pluggables for next generation AI workloads.”

    Availability
    Broadcom is currently sampling the Sian2 BCM8582X device to its early access customers and partners. Please contact your local Broadcom sales representative for samples and pricing.

    For more information on Broadcom’s 200G/lane optical solutions, please click here.

    About Broadcom
    Broadcom Inc. (NASDAQ: AVGO) is a global technology leader that designs, develops, and supplies a broad range of semiconductor, enterprise software and security solutions. Broadcom’s category-leading product portfolio serves critical markets including cloud, data center, networking, broadband, wireless, storage, industrial, and enterprise software. Our solutions include service provider and enterprise networking and storage, mobile device and broadband connectivity, mainframe, cybersecurity, and private and hybrid cloud infrastructure. Broadcom is a Delaware corporation headquartered in Palo Alto, CA. For more information, go to www.broadcom.com.

    Broadcom, the pulse logo, and Connecting everything are among the trademarks of Broadcom. The term “Broadcom” refers to Broadcom Inc., and/or its subsidiaries. Other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

    Press Contact:
    Khanh Lam
    Corporate Communications
    press.relations@broadcom.com
    Telephone: +1 408 433 8649

    The MIL Network –