NewzIntel.com

Category: MIL-OSI

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Sun Dong attends automotive summit

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Secretary for Innovation, Technology & Industry Prof Sun Dong attended automotive supply chain meetings in Wuhan, Hubei Province today.

    In the morning, Prof Sun attended the 2024 China Automotive Supply Chain Conference & the Third China Intelligent Networked New Energy Vehicle Ecological Conference organised by the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers and Dongfeng Motor Corporation, as well as the launch ceremony of the International Automotive & Supply Chain (Hong Kong) Summit and the 2025 International Automotive & Supply Chain Expo (Hong Kong).

    Speaking at the conference, Prof Sun said that the automobile industry has entered the new energy era, making it an emerging industry under new industrialisation. In the Hong Kong Innovation & Technology Development Blueprint, new energy vehicles is one of the significant industries advocated for development under new industrialisation.

    He added that over the past two years or so, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government attracted over 100 strategic innovation and technology (I&T) enterprises to set up their businesses in Hong Kong, including BeyonCa, a joint enterprise established earlier in the city by today’s event co-organiser Dongfeng Motor Corporation and France’s Renault Group.

    The tech chief also expressed confidence that Hong Kong can make new contributions to the innovative development of the national supply chain of the new energy vehicle industry, thereby augmenting the new advantages of Chinese vehicle brands.

    At the Dongfeng Motor Corporation, Prof Sun learnt about its latest developments, product planning and corporate culture. He also had in-depth exchanges with the corporation’s Chairman Yang Qing on its development of new quality productive forces in the future and potential co-operation opportunities between the two parties in aspects such as new industrialisation.

    He particularly hoped that both sides’ collaboration on BeyonCa setting up in Hong Kong would serve to demonstrate their co-operation with each other.

    During a tour of the assembly final workshop at the corporation’s Mengshi Tech Intelligent Park, Prof Sun experienced the functionality and performance of the latest domestic high-end off-road electric vehicles.

    In the afternoon, he visited Wuhan FineMEMS to gain an understanding of the national high technology enterprise’s research and development, and products in providing Microelectromechanical Systems sensors, and metallic thick film pressure sensors and system.

    Prof Sun then proceeded to the Wuhan University to exchange views with its leaders and experts, as well as other local higher education institutions, the Hubei Provincial Government’s Hong Kong & Macao Affairs Office, Hubei Province’s Department of Science & Technology and high-tech enterprises.

    The tech chief expressed his support for deepening I&T co-operation among higher education institutions between the two places.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Deputy Secretary-General’s remarks at event entitled “Revitalized Multilateralism: Recommitting to Ending AIDS Together” [as prepared for delivery]

    Source: United Nations secretary general

    H.E Mr. William Ruto, President of Kenya, H.E Mr. Russell Dlamini, Prime Minister of Eswatini, H.E Mr. Terrance Micheal Drew, Prime Minister and Minister of Finance of Saint Kitts and Nevis, Excellencies, Ladies and gentlemen,
     
    What once seemed impossible— to end AIDS as a public health threat —is now within our reach by 2030.

    In a time where divisions are widening, and conflicts are tearing at the social fabric of societies and when the spectre of the climate crisis looms, the progress we have made in ending AIDS is the success story we need to renew hope.

    Today, the numbers of AIDS-related deaths reached their lowest level since the peak in 2004.
    39% fewer people acquired HIV in 2023 compared with 2010.

    And in 2023, an estimated 30.7 million people were receiving HIV treatment as compared with 7.7 million in 2010.  

    The AIDS response is a powerful testament to what is achievable when leaders unite efforts in service of global solidarity.

    When communities are empowered.

    When inequality is tackled, and human rights protected.

    And when science-based policy making is matched with political will.

    As a modern moonshot, the ripple effects of investments in the fight against HIV have yielded extraordinary dividends beyond the AIDS pandemic. Accelerating progress across other Sustainable Development Goals, including economic growth, poverty and hunger reduction, education, and universal health coverage.

    However, we all know that progress is not immutable.

    Gains are fragile and backsliding is possible.

    As we speak, AIDS claims a life every minute. By the end of this session today, ninety families would have lost a loved one to AIDS.

    We stand at a crossroads and to retreat now would jeopardize all we have fought for and gained.

    To sustain the momentum, we need to take action on three fronts.

    First, we must tackle the fiscal crisis that is squeezing social investments.

    The current financial system is stacked against a sustainable AIDS response.

    Half of sub-Saharan countries spend three times more on debt servicing than on health.

    Meanwhile, for years these nations have been strangled by interest rates four to eight times those of high-income countries.

    If we do not address the injustices of the financial system so countries can invest in bringing an end to AIDS now, we will pay the price in many ways later. We know that the costs of tackling AIDS are less than the costs of an unending pandemic.

    Time is not on our side – now is the moment to boost domestic financing and to renew global solidarity and meeting the commitments to financing development and gavelled in the Pact for the Future.

    Second, we must ensure access to medicines and medical technologies for all.

    Innovative medical technologies need to be recognised as global public goods. Their effectiveness in ending AIDS as a public health threat depends on ensuring access to all.

    This includes enabling the production of generics everywhere, crucial for global health security.

    Third, we must continue the battle to stop stigma in its tracks.
     
    Fear and discrimination drive people away from life-saving services.

    Punitive laws, hate speech, violence against marginalized communities, exacerbate stigma and push people away from accessing vital health services.
      
    It is vital to uphold all human rights for all people – including by removing punitive discriminatory laws that hold us back for reaching the goals on gender equality.

    We must ensure that all girls complete secondary school, live free from violence, and have access to necessary support. Protect democracy and civil society space by enabling community-based organisations to operate, deliver services, and hold authorities to account.

    Excellencies, Colleagues and Friends,

    There is a clear path to ending AIDS by 2030.

    A path that ensures the health and rights of all people living with HIV for the rest of their lives.

    A path that we will ensure a safer, fairer, world for everyone.

    That path is a choice.

    We must choose solidarity over division.

    Choose action over complacency.

    Choose prosperity for all, not simply the few.

    Just as we did when our global efforts began nearly 30 years ago.

    Let’s act now to end AIDS by 2030 and deliver on the promise of the SDGs.

    Thank you.
     

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Federal Court Orders Texas Man and Six Companies to Pay Over $9.5 Million in Fraudulent Scheme Involving Futures, Options, and Foreign Currency

    Source: US Commodity Futures Trading Commission

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Commodity Futures Trading Commission today announced Judge Samuel A. Lindsay of the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas entered multiple orders and a judgment against Rudy Avila; L.I.F.T. Group LLC (LIFT), Trading Ventures Group (TVG), Capital Ventures Group, LLC, (CVG), and Ventures Group, LLC (  VGL), all U.S. companies; and CIG Internacional Sociedad Anónima (CIG) and Trading Technologies Group Sociedad Anónima (TTG), both Costa Rican companies, requiring monetary relief totaling over $10.5 million The orders and judgment resolve the CFTC’s enforcement action against these defendants filed Sept.14, 2021. [See CFTC Press Release 8424-21]

    Judge Lindsay entered a memorandum and order on Aug. 1, 2024, a clarification order on Aug. 7, 2024, and a judgment on Aug. 8, 2024, granting the CFTC’s motions for default and finding the defendants had engaged in commodity futures, options on commodities futures, and forex fraud.  Judge Lindsay also found CIG and TVG, while acting as unregistered commodity trading advisors (CTAs), engaged in CTA fraud. In granting permanent injunctive relief, the court found the defendants “repeatedly and deliberately” engaged “two separate but related multi-year Ponzi schemes,” thereby violating “core provisions of the act [Commodity Exchange Act].” Judge Lindsay noted Avila’s actions demonstrated a “high level of scienter and egregious fraud.”

    The orders and judgment require Avila, LIFT, CIG, and TTG to pay, jointly and severally, $3,626,751.90 in restitution to defrauded clients in the first fraudulent scheme. The order also requires Avila, TVG, CVG, and VGL to pay, jointly and severally, $1,814,720.41 in restitution to defrauded clients in the second scheme. Further, the orders and judgment require Avila to pay a $1,525,831.05 civil monetary penalty (CMP); LIFT, TTG, TVG, CVG, and VGL each to pay a $429,028 CMP; and CIG and TVG each to pay a $858,056 CMP. 

    Parallel Criminal Action

    On June 3, 2021, Avila pled guilty to one count of wire fraud based, in part, on the same conduct alleged in the CFTC’s complaint.  [United States v. Avila, Docket No. 3:21-cr-00168-M-1 (N.D. Tx 2021).]  Avila was sentenced to 210 months in prison and an additional three years of supervised release.

    The CFTC thanks the Office of the United States Attorney for the Northern District of Texas and the FBI Dallas/Fort Worth Office. The CFTC acknowledges the assistance of the Superintendencia General de Valores de Costa Rica (SUGEVAL), the UK Financial Conduct Authority and the Financial Services Regulation and Supervision Department of Nevis.

    The Division of Enforcement staff responsible for this case are Xavier Romeu-Matta, Michael Cazakoff, Judith M. Slowly, Mary Lutz, Gates S. Hurand, Lenel Hickson, Jr., and Manal M. Sultan, and former staff member Steven I. Ringer.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Department of Homeland Security Marks National “If You See Something, Say Something” Awareness Day

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Department of Homeland Security Marks National “If You See Something, Say Something” Awareness Day

    lass=”text-align-center”>Annual #SeeSayDay is September 25 

    Encourages Public to “Spot the Signs. Report the Activity.” 

    Today the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is observing  #SeeSayDay, the “If You See Something, Say Something®” campaign’s annual national awareness day. This year’s theme, “Spot the Signs. Report the Activity,” highlights the crucial role of public vigilance in national security and counter-terrorism efforts within the current threat environment. The #SeeSayDay call-to-action urges individuals to spot and report suspicious activity to help prevent terrorism-related crime – on September 25, and year-round.  

    “Ensuring our collective security takes all of us, working together and looking out for each other,” said Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas. “Saying something when you see something could be the difference between life and death for a family member, friend, neighbor, or someone you don’t even know. Encourage your friends and others in your community to do the same, and we can help prevent tragedies and make our whole country safer.” 

    A 2024 RAND study of 628 plots targeting soft targets and crowded places found 64% of foiled attack plots were stopped because of public tips. The DHS “If You See Something, Say Something®” campaign, launched in July 2010 in conjunction with the Nationwide Suspicious Activity Reporting Initiative, reinforces that we must always be alert, and when we have information about a terrorism-related threat, speak up. The campaign aims to inspire Americans to participate in national security and foster positive relationships between citizens and law enforcement. On #SeeSayDay each year, DHS and its campaign partners across the country come together to remind the public that our American communities have a collective stake in homeland security.  

    Members of the public are encouraged to get involved on #SeeSayDay in several ways: 

    • Learn the 16 signs of suspicious activity. Remember: Factors such as race, ethnicity, gender, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, disability, or gender identity are not suspicious.  

    • Find and save your SAR number. Navigate to the campaign’s interactive map to look up the appropriate Suspicious Activity Reporting (SAR) number for wherever you live, work, vacation, or spend time – then save that number in your phone. As always, call 9-1-1 immediately for any emergencies. 

    • Use social media to spread the word. Access ready-to-use graphics, pre-drafted captions, and newsletter content that you can share on your personal or organization’s social media platforms and other communication channels to help raise awareness and promote this year’s theme on #SeeSayDay. Use the hashtag #SeeSayDay to note your involvement! 

    • Stay connected year-round. Learn more about the campaign, how to become a partner, and access other resources to share with your communities on September 25 or anytime of the year. 

    For more information on #SeeSayDay, visit DHS.gov/SeeSayDay.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Statement in Response to National Labor Relations Board Ruling on Pittsburgh Post-Gazette Unfair Labor Practices

    Source: Communications Workers of America

    Search News

    On September 20, a National Labor Relations Board panel affirmed an Administrative Law Judge’s January 2023 ruling that the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette had failed to bargain in good faith with the union representing its workers.

    In response, Communications Workers of America President Claude Cummings Jr. issued the following statement:

    Last week’s ruling from the National Labor Relations Board reinforces something that has been clear from the start of the strike: the Post-Gazette has been violating federal labor law. Meanwhile, CWA and NewsGuild-CWA members have been enduring unnecessary hardship for nearly two years. The Post-Gazette management could stop wasting money on fruitless attempts to avoid responsibility and end the strike today by following labor law. We are united and we will not back down.

    Strike supporters can donate by visiting unionprogress.com/donate or order a strike solidarity t-shirt at cwa.org/pup-shirt.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ­­Robotic Moving ‘Crew’ Preps for Work on Moon 

    Source: NASA

    As NASA moves forward with efforts to establish a long-term presence on the Moon as part of the Artemis campaign, safely moving cargo from landers to the lunar surface is a crucial capability.  
    Whether the cargo, also known as payloads, are small scientific experiments or large technology to build infrastructure, there won’t be a crew on the Moon to do all the work, which is where robots and new software come in. 
    A team at NASA’s Langley Research Center in Hampton, Virginia, spent the last couple of years infusing existing robotic hardware with a software system that makes the robot operate autonomously. Earlier this month, that team, led by researcher Dr. Julia Cline of NASA Langley’s Research Directorate, ran demonstrations of their system called LANDO (Lightweight Surface Manipulation System AutoNomy capabilities Development for surface Operations and construction). 

    The demos took place in an area set up to look like the Moon’s surface, complete with fake boulders and a model lunar lander. During the first demo, the team placed the payload, a small metal box, on a black pedestal. The robotic arm stretched over the scene, with its dangling hook poised to grasp the box.
    As the team huddled nearby around computers, sensors on the arm scanned the surrounding area, looking for the metal box, which was outfitted with encoded markers — similar to QR codes — that revealed critical information about its position and orientation relative to the arm. Using a graphic user interface, team member Amelia Scott also chose a location for LANDO to place the payload.

    After locating the metal box and computing a safe path to move it, the arm began a slow, deliberate movement toward its target, coming in at a precise angle that allowed the hook to select a capture point on the payload. Once engaged, the arm slowly lifted the payload from the pedestal, moved right, and gently lowered the payload to the simulated lunar surface. With the payload safely on the surface, the system carefully disengaged the hook from the capture point and returned to its home position. The entire process took a few minutes. Shortly after the first demo was complete, the team did it again, but with a small model rover.  
    “What we demonstrated was the repeatability of the system,moving multiple payloads to show that we’re consistently and safely able to get them from point A to point B,” said Cline. “We also demonstrated the Lightweight Surface Manipulation System hardware – the ability to control the system through space and plan a path around obstacles.” 
    The system’s successful performance during the September demonstration marks the end of this project, but the first step in developing a larger system to go to the Moon. 
    Now that the team has determined how the system should function, Cline believes the next natural step would be to develop and test an engineering design unit on one of the landers going to the Moon as part of NASA’s Commercial Lunar Payload Services (CLPS) initiative. The team is actively looking for industry partners who want to commercialize the capability. 
    Through CLPS, NASA is working with commercial companies to deliver science and technology demonstrations to the Moon.  
    The work behind LANDO could be directly infused into much larger versions of a lightweight surface manipulation system.

    “The overall control system we’ve developed would apply to larger versions of the technology,” said Cline. “When you think about the payloads we’ll have to offload for on the Moon, like habitats and surface power systems, this is the kind of general-purpose tool that could be used for those tasks.” 
    The LANDO system was funded through the Early Career Initiative in NASA’s Space Technology Mission Directorate (STMD). Through STMD, NASA supports and develops transformative space technologies to enable future missions. As NASA embarks on its next era of exploration with the Artemis campaign, STMD is helping advance technologies, developing new systems, and testing capabilities at the Moon that will be critical for crewed missions to Mars. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Boston Man Charged with Violating National Defense Airspace

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

    BOSTON – A Boston man was arraigned today in federal court for allegedly flying a drone near the finish line at the Boston Marathon in April 2024. The drone flight prompted law enforcement and bomb technicians to seize the drone mid-air, land it and evaluate its threat to the public. 

    Allan Nip, 30, was charged with unlawfully flying a drone in restricted National Defense Airspace. A deferred prosecution agreement filed along with the charging document reflects that the defendant has agreed to pay a $5,000 criminal fine and to forfeit his drone, valued at approximately $4,000. The United States also filed a civil forfeiture complaint in connection with this matter to forfeit the drone and its related controller.
            
    According to court filings, Nip was flying his drone within a few blocks of the Boston Marathon finish line approximately 20 minutes before the professional men in the wheelchair division were finishing the race The drone was detected by federal law enforcement monitoring the airspace near the finish line, was intercepted mid-flight, and was landed in a secure location in Back Bay. Once the drone was taken down and evaluated by bomb technicians, law enforcement responded to Nip’s apartment on West Springfield Street in Boston, where he allegedly admitted to flying the drone that morning.

    The controller on Nip’s drone, as with most drone controllers, allegedly provided warnings that day that he was flying in a restricted zone. In addition, the Federal Aviation Administration had sent out notices warning anyone seeking to fly any type of aircraft (including drones) not to fly near the start or finish lines of the Boston Marathon on race day, without a special permit. Those special permits are not granted for amateur drone operators.

    The charge of operating a drone in restricted National Defense Airspace carries a maximum penalty of one year in prison, one year of supervised release and a $100,000 fine. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.

    Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy; Jodi Cohen, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation Boston Division; Colleen D’Alessandro, Regional Administrator for the Federal Aviation Administration in New England; and Boston Police Commissioner Michael Cox made the announcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney John T. McNeil of the National Security Unit is prosecuting the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Carol E. Head, Chief of the Asset Recovery Unit is prosecuting the civil forfeiture case.

    The details contained in the charging document are allegations. The defendant is presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in the court of law.  
     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: St. Louis Man Sentenced to 12 Years in Prison for Fatal Shooting Over Drug Debt

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

    ST. LOUIS – U.S. District Judge Sarah E. Pitlyk on Monday sentenced a man who shot someone trying to collect a drug debt to 12 years in prison.

    Terrell Donta McDaniel agreed to sell 10 grams of fentanyl to Andre Nash on Nov. 2, 2022, for $500. But McDaniel did not give Nash the full amount of fentanyl, and Nash began looking for McDaniel to collect the debt.

    After learning that McDaniel was staying at a vacant house in the 4100 block of Clara Place, Nash went there and entered the house. McDaniel shot and killed Nash.

    McDaniel and others then wrapped Nash’s body in tarps and plastic and placed him in the trunk of a stolen car, dumping the body in the 5900 block of St. Louis Avenue that night. The body was discovered the next morning.

    In court Monday, McDaniel apologized to Nash’s family. He said he was afraid for his life and had been trying to dodge Nash for four to five months.

    McDaniel, now 42, of St. Louis, pleaded guilty in September 2023 to one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute fentanyl and one count of discharge of a firearm during a drug trafficking crime.

    The case was investigated by the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department and the FBI.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Michigan Man Pleads Guilty to Felony Charge for Actions During January 6 Capitol Breach

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

                WASHINGTON – A Michigan man pleaded guilty today to a felony offense related to his conduct during the Jan. 6, 2021, breach of the U.S. Capitol. His actions and the actions of others disrupted a joint session of the U.S. Congress convened to ascertain and count the electoral votes related to the 2020 presidential election.

                Jason Howland, 47, of Clinton Township, Michigan, pleaded guilty to a felony offense of obstruction of law enforcement during a civil disorder before U.S. District Judge Trevor N. McFadden. Judge McFadden will sentence Howland on Jan. 10, 2025.

                According to court documents, on Jan. 6, 2021, Howland was identified in open-source video among a large group of rioters assembled near the base of the scaffolding on the northwest side of the U.S. Capitol building. There, U.S. Capitol Police officers had formed a police line to prevent unauthorized individuals from entering the scaffolding. Rioters directly in front of the police line began to assault officers and attempt to overrun the police line. Howland observed this and, in response, turned to the crowd behind him and yelled, “Let’s go,” and waved his arm forward twice.

                Immediately after Howland yelled, “Let’s go,” he and other rioters began to push forward, overrunning the police line and advancing toward the Capitol. As Howland advanced forward with the crowd, he pushed on the back of individuals in front of him. Court documents say that Howland’s conduct obstructed, impeded, and interfered with U.S. Capitol Police officers lawfully engaged in the lawful performance of their official duties.

                Howland then advanced to the Upper West Terrace and entered the Capitol at approximately 2:17 p.m. through the Senate Wing Door. Inside the building, Howland traveled to the Crypt, where he chanted with others and observed rioters assault police. At approximately 2:20 p.m., while inside the Crypt, Howland received and read a message from another individual telling him, “Congress in session just figured out u guys are there and went running out of the session. Now on recess n house on lockdown.”

                At approximately 2:51 p.m., Howland entered the Capitol Rotunda and observed a line of Metropolitan Police Department and U.S. Capitol Police officers attempting to clear the area of rioters. In response, Howland approached the police line. At approximately 3:06 p.m., Howland entered the East Foyer. As he entered, he yelled at a group of U.S. Capitol Police officers.

                Howland exited the U.S. Capitol at approximately 3:17 p.m. In total, Howland was inside the Capitol for approximately one hour.

                After leaving the Capitol, Howland remained on the East Plaza, where he yelled at police officers who were arriving to respond to the riot. At approximately 5:28 p.m., an individual texted Howland asking whether ANTIFA had broken into the Capitol. Howland replied, “I’m not going to tell you who specifically. It wasn’t Antifa. It was patriots,” then added in a successive message, “No. Not Antifa. For a fact.” When the individual told Howland: “Well everyone on Twitter and all over is assuming it was Antifa. So that’s awesome,” Howland replied, “Good. Congress knows who it was.”

                The FBI arrested Howland on Jan. 24, 2024, in Mt. Clemens, Michigan.

                This case is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia and the Department of Justice National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section. Valuable assistance was provided by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Michigan.

                This case is being investigated by the FBI’s Detroit and Washington Field Offices. Valuable assistance was provided by the U.S. Capitol Police and the Metropolitan Police Department.

                In the 43 months since Jan. 6, 2021, more than 1,488 individuals have been charged in nearly all 50 states for crimes related to the breach of the U.S. Capitol, including nearly 550 individuals charged with assaulting or impeding law enforcement, a felony. The investigation remains ongoing.

                Anyone with tips can call 1-800-CALL-FBI (800-225-5324) or visit tips.fbi.gov.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former President of Beverly Hills-Based Publisher Found Guilty of Embezzling at Least $1.3 Million From Company and Its Owner

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

    LOS ANGELES – A Ventura County woman has been found guilty by a jury of defrauding a Beverly Hills-based independent publishing company and its owner by embezzling at least $1.3 million from the company and the owner’s personal bank account over several years for her own personal expenses, including spa treatment, veterinary bills, and designer handbags.

    Kimberly Ann Miletta, 51, of Ventura, was found guilty late Monday of three counts of wire fraud.

    According to evidence presented at a five-day trial, from 2009 to 2018, Miletta was president of Phoenix Books, an independent book and audio publisher owned by a victim identified in court documents as “J.O.” As the president of Phoenix Books, Miletta had full control over the business, including its finances, but she only was authorized to use company funds to pay for legitimate business expenses.

    From October 2013 to January 2018, Miletta embezzled hundreds of thousands of dollars by using the company credit card – over which she had exclusive control – to pay for personal items, and then paid for the credit card bills out of the company’s owner’s personal bank account.

    Miletta used the company credit card to pay for, among other things, personal spa treatments, designer handbags, high-end clothing, a multi-thousand-dollar mattress, and years’ worth of veterinary bills and pet products for her cats. Miletta fraudulently charged more than $185,000 worth of purchases at clothing and department stores to the company credit card. Miletta also made a fraudulent wire transfer out of the personal account of the company’s owner of nearly $1 million, which Miletta used to buy an ocean-view home in Ventura.

    The jury found Miletta not guilty of two additional counts of wire fraud.

    United States District Judge Maame Ewusi-Mensah Frimpong scheduled a January 10, 2025, sentencing hearing, at which time Miletta will face a statutory maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison for each count. 

    The FBI investigated this matter.

    Assistant United States Attorneys Jenna G. Williams of the Corporate and Securities Fraud Strike Force and Declan T. Conroy of the International Narcotics, Money Laundering, and Racketeering Section are prosecuting this case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Heirloom Wealth Management Partners with IFI Network to Incorporate Banking Marketplace

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SALT LAKE CITY, Sept. 25, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Heirloom Wealth Management is excited to announce a strategic partnership with IFI Network, a leader in innovative banking solutions. This collaboration will empower Heirloom Wealth Management to integrate IFI Network’s advanced platform and offer a variety of banking solutions into its service offerings, enhancing the financial experience for clients with tailored banking services.

    The partnership aligns with Heirloom Wealth Management’s commitment to providing clients with comprehensive and personalized financial strategies. By incorporating IFI Network’s marketplace, Heirloom Wealth Management will offer an elevated suite of products and services that cater to the unique needs of its clientele.

    “We are delighted to partner with IFI Network and utilize their cutting-edge platform to enhance our banking services,” said Rick Hurley, Principal of Heirloom Wealth Management. “This partnership allows us to offer our clients more sophisticated and customized solutions, reinforcing our commitment to their financial success and satisfaction.”

    Kyle McAndrew, Head of Partnerships at IFI Network, remarked, “Our collaboration with Heirloom Wealth Management is a testament to our dedication to providing innovative banking solutions. We are excited to support their efforts in delivering a superior client experience through our tailored banking services.”

    For further details on how this partnership will benefit clients, please visit www.ifinetwork.com or contact inquiries@ifinetwork.com.

    About Heirloom Wealth Management

    Heirloom Wealth Management is a distinguished wealth management firm that specializes in providing personalized financial planning and investment strategies. Committed to understanding each client’s unique financial needs, Heirloom Wealth Management delivers tailored solutions designed to achieve long-term success and security.

    About IFI Network

    IFI Network is a marketplace that provides B2B advanced banking solutions, offering a diverse range of products and services that cater to the modern client. With a focus on leveraging innovative technology and delivering exceptional service, IFI Network is dedicated to enhancing the banking experiences of its users.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Moncton — 67-year-old man dies following single-vehicle collision involving pedestrian

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    A 67-year-old man from Moncton, N.B., has died following a single-vehicle collision with a pedestrian in Moncton, N.B.

    On September 23, 2024, at approximately 3:28 p.m., members of the Codiac Regional RCMP detachment responded to a report of a single-vehicle collision involving a pedestrian on Wheeler Boulevard near the intersection of Mapleton Road, in Moncton.

    The collision is believed to have occurred when the vehicle, travelling Eastbound on Wheeler Boulevard, collided with the pedestrian who was attempting to cross the road.

    The pedestrian died at the scene as a result of his injuries. The driver of the vehicle sustained what were believed to be minor injuries.

    Members of the Moncton Fire Department and Ambulance New Brunswick also attended the scene. A member of the New Brunswick Coroner’s office and an RCMP Collision Reconstructionist are assisting with the ongoing investigation.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: House Passes Chavez-DeRemer-Backed Bill to Restore Forest Health, Improve Wildfire Resiliency

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Lori Chavez-DeRemer (OR-05)

    Bipartisan Fix Our Forests Act passes as Oregon faces most expensive wildfire season in state history

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Fix Our Forests Act (H.R. 8790) with bipartisan support. The proposal, cosponsored by Rep. Lori Chavez-DeRemer (OR-05), seeks to restore forest health, improve wildfire resiliency, and protect communities by increasing the pace and scale of forest restoration projects. This bill passed as Oregon is experiencing its most devastating wildfire season in recorded history.

    “This wildfire season in Oregon has been tragic and devastating. So far this year, over 1.9 million acres have been scorched. That’s more than double the state’s 10-year average. Costing more than $250 million, the Oregon Department of Forestry has stated this is the most expensive wildfire season in our state’s history,” Chavez-DeRemer said. “It’s clear that more needs to be done to prevent another record-breaking wildfire season from occurring. That’s why I’m proud to support the bipartisan Fix Our Forests Act. It’s a comprehensive proposal that would improve forest management in areas at the highest risk for wildfires by using advanced science and technology. Providing needed resources to those affected, and working to prevent wildfires from starting in the first place, will continue to be top priorities.”

    The Fix Our Forests Act would:

    • Simplify and expedite environmental reviews for forest management projects;
    • Promote federal, state, tribal, and local collaboration;
    • Deter frivolous litigation that delays essential projects;
    • Create a framework for prioritizing treatments in forests at the highest risk of wildfire;
    • Encourage the adoption of state-of-the-art science and techniques for federal land managers;
    • Encourage active management to improve the safety of powerlines and other infrastructure; and
    • Strengthen tools like Good Neighbor Authority and Stewardship Contracting.

    A section-by-section analysis by the Natural Resources Committee is available HERE. A one-page summary is available HERE. Full text of the bill is available HERE.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Governor Signe Krogstrup’s presentation at Nykredit Capital Markets Day

    Source: Danmarks Nationalbank

    Monetary and financial trends

    On 25 September 2024, Governor Signe Krogstrup gave a presentation at Nykredit Capital Markets Day. The presentation gave an overview of the Danish economy and monetary policy. Main messages was: We expect a soft landing for the Danish economy; The monetary policy is still tight and likely to hold down inflation and The Danish krone has been very stable during the past years.

    Most recent presentations and speeches

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: HMCS Shawinigan, HMCS Charlottetown and NATO Allies monitor Russian Navy Vessels in Western Europe and Mediterranean Sea

    Source: Government of Canada News

    September 25 – Ottawa– National Defence / Canadian Armed Forces

    From August 29th to September 18th, 2024, while conducting vigilance activities alongside NATO ships, His Majesty’s Canadian Ships (HMCS) Shawinigan and Charlottetown monitored Russian submarines and surface ships.

    Beginning August 29th HMCS Shawinigan monitored a Russian submarine and surface vessel through the Baltic and North Seas before handing over responsibility to His Majesty’s Ship (HMS) Iron Duke, of the Royal Navy on September 1st. HMCS Charlottetown, flagship of Standing NATO Maritime Group 2 (SNMG2) assumed monitoring duties on September 17th from ESPS Cristobal Colon of the Spanish Navy, also part of SNMG2, and monitored the vessels for the remainder of their journey through the Eastern Mediterranean Sea.

    During this period HMCS Charlottetown also conducted monitoring activities of a separate Russian Federation Navy submarine and three surface vessels as they participated in Exercise OCEAN 24, a large-scale Russian exercise.

    HMCS Shawinigan is currently deployed to Europe alongside HMCS Glace Bay on Operation REASSURANCE with Standing NATO Mine Countermeasures Group 1 (SNMCMG1), working alongside allied NATO ships to safely dispose of historical ordnance in the region’s waters, in addition to participating in NATO enhanced Vigilance Activities.

    HMCS Charlottetown is currently deployed on Operation REASSURANCE as the flagship for SNMG2, working alongside allied NATO ships to support regional maritime security in the Mediterranean.

    The right of innocent passage provides standards and expectations for ships to follow while transiting the waters of another country. At all times the Russian vessels were observed to have complied with these standards and expectations.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: GUU takes part in events dedicated to the 75th anniversary of the founding of the PRC and the establishment of diplomatic relations between Russia and China

    MIL OSI Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

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

    From September 19 to 20, the International Scientific and Practical Conference “On the Road of Struggle and Achievements: for the 75th Anniversary of the Formation of the PRC and the Establishment of Diplomatic Relations between Russia and China” was held in St. Petersburg.

    Director of the Center for Socio-Economic and Political Research of China at the National University of Management Fanis Sharipov made a presentation at the plenary session on the program “International Manufacturing Business”. This is a dual degree program of the National University of Management and Ningbo University (PRC), which is celebrating its tenth anniversary this year.

    The next day, Fanis Sharipov became the moderator of the section “International Relations and Foreign Policy of the PRC in a Changing World”, and also gave a report “The Space Silk Road”.

    The conference was organized by the Regional Office of the Interregional Public Organization “Russian-Chinese Friendship Society” in St. Petersburg and the St. Petersburg State University of Economics with the support of the A.M. Gorchakov Public Diplomacy Fund.

    On September 27, the Director of the Center for Socio-Economic and Political Research of China at the State University of Management will attend a gala reception at the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China on the occasion of the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China and the establishment of diplomatic relations between Russia and China.

    And on September 30, 2024, a Gala Evening dedicated to the 75th anniversary of the People’s Republic of China, the 75th anniversary of Russian-Chinese diplomatic relations and the 75th anniversary of the establishment of the Chinese-Russian Friendship Society will be held in the Rossiya Cinema building.

    The Chairman of the Russian-Chinese Friendship Society, First Deputy Chairman of the State Duma of the Federal Assembly of the Russian Federation I.I. Melnikov and Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the People’s Republic of China to the Russian Federation Zhang Hanhui will speak at the ceremonial meeting. After the speeches, the guests will enjoy a concert by the N.V. Osipov Folk Instruments Orchestra, soloists of the A.V. Alexandrov Song and Dance Ensemble, as well as musicians from the National Center for the Performing Arts in Beijing.

    Organizers of the event: Russian-Chinese Friendship Society, Ministry of Culture of the Russian Federation, Institute of China and Modern Asia of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Union of Chinese Entrepreneurs in Russia.

    Subscribe to the TG channel “Our GUU” Date of publication: 09/25/2024

    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.

    GUU takes part in events dedicated to the 75th anniversary of the founding of the PRC and the establishment of diplomatic relations between Russia and China

    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 Canada: Saskatchewan Recognizes Global Biotech Week

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on September 25, 2024

    Agriculture Minister David Marit has proclaimed September 22 to 28, 2024, as Global Biotech Week in Saskatchewan. This week brings awareness to and celebrates the benefits of biotechnology, including the province’s achievements in the agriculture sector.

    “Biotech is transforming the future of farming, from enhancing crop and livestock production to improving sustainability,” Marit said. “We are proud of the role our province plays in advancing this important sector, boosting our provincial economy and global food supply.”

    Agricultural biotechnology equips Saskatchewan producers with improved upon productivity and management practices, resulting in higher yields and product quality. Saskatchewan’s biotech sector is recognized internationally, with one-third of Canada’s agricultural biotechnology sector in the province. Our institutes are leaders in the field of crop breeding, genetics and genomics. 

    “Ag-West Bio coordinates activities across the province to mark Global Biotech Week,” Biotech President and CEO Karen Churchill said. “The goal of Global Biotech Week is to bring attention to the ways that biotechnology benefits society. The world would look very different without biotechnology. Sustainable agriculture production, innovations in food and medicine are made possible thanks to science. We need to take time to celebrate!”

    Members of the public are encouraged to check out the activities planned this week to showcase the province’s bioeconomy, including how science benefits agriculture. A full list of this year’s events, including several in Saskatoon and online, is available at www.globalbiotechweeksask.ca/.

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    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Post Secondary Schools to Receive Menstrual Products for Students in Need

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on September 25, 2024

    A partnership between the Government of Saskatchewan and Shoppers Drug Mart is expanding a program that distributes free menstrual products in the province. 

    “We are delighted to continue our partnership with Shoppers Drug Mart and expand this important program,” Minister Responsible for the Status of Women Office Laura Ross said. “This fall, in addition to 670 elementary and high schools, nine post-secondary institutions and six private vocational schools will receive product so students in need have access to free period products. All partners are committed to increasing safety and affordability in our communities.”

    Since the initiative was launched in October 2023, more than five million period products have been delivered to 670 schools and 23 shelters across the province. Two million more products are scheduled for distribution starting in October. 

    “This partnership is another important way we are supporting post-secondary students,” Advanced Education Minister Colleen Young said. “Students should not have to face financial or physical barriers to access menstrual products. This fall, many students will benefit from free access to these essential items as 435,000 products will be delivered to post-secondary institutions across the province.”

    The announcement was made at the Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technology in Regina, one of the many schools that will benefit from the program. Shipments to the post secondary institutions will start in October.

    “At Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technologies, walking alongside our learners and supporting them throughout their educational journey is central to our student support model,” Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technologies (SIIT) Operations & Advancement Vice President Dr. Vickie Drover said. “With over 2,500 students, and 55 per cent identifying as female, ensuring access to essential items is crucial to reducing barriers and fostering a safe, supportive environment. Partnerships like this one are invaluable in our efforts to empower Indigenous learners, enabling them to focus on their education and personal growth.”

    Through the partnership with the Shoppers Foundation for Women’s Health, the province will receive 12 million free products over three years. Shoppers donates the products, and Saskatchewan’s Status of Women Office manages the distribution. 

    “We are proud to see our work with the Government of Saskatchewan continue to expand, reaching more students with the menstrual products they need, where they need them the most,” Shoppers Drug Mart District Manager Kendra Comeau said. “Keeping women and girls in school is key to their overall success and programs like these are breaking down barriers, making it easier for students to reach their full potential.”

    Shoppers Drug Mart has a long history of supporting women’s health charities across Canada. With a commitment to regular giving through the charitable arm of the company, Shoppers Foundation for Women’s Health, Shoppers Drug Mart is building on this legacy by focusing on reducing health inequities, particularly through initiatives that promote menstrual equity. 

    To learn more about the Foundation’s initiatives, visit: shoppersfoundation.ca

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    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: The Biden-Harris Soft-On-Crime Agenda And Failed Foreign Policy Threaten The Safety & Security Of Every American

    Source: US House of Representatives Republicans

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

    The Biden-Harris Soft-On-Crime Agenda And Failed Foreign Policy Threaten The Safety & Security Of Every American

    Washington, September 25, 2024

    Since Joe Biden and Kamala Harris took office, their failed foreign policy of appeasement has diminished our standing on the world stage and emboldened our adversaries while violent crime surges across the country due to their’ soft-on-crime policies, failed bail reform, open borders, and defund the police movement. House Republicans are committed to law and order while maintaining strength and dominance on the world stage. Today, House Republicans will bring to the Floor two bills–H.R. 8205, the Keeping Violent Offenders Off Our Streets Act, and H.R. 3334, the Sanctioning Tyrannical and Oppressive People within the Chinese Communist Party Act–to equip law enforcement with the necessary resources to stop repeat offenders from threatening our communities and counter the threat of foreign adversaries including the Chinese Communist Party. 
     
    FACTS ABOUT H.R. 8205 – The Keeping Violent Offenders Off Our Streets Act (Courtesy of the House Committee on the Judiciary Republicans) 

    • Defines bail bonds as an insurance product so that they must comply with federal insurance fraud laws and background check requirements.
    • The rise in violent crime we are seeing across our country is a direct result of the soft-on-crime policies like cashless bail that is being pushed by woke prosecutors and judges. This bill combats radical bail policies by ensuring judges and prosecutors know a defendant’s criminal history and bring accountability to bail bonds.

    FACTS ABOUT H.R. 3334 – Sanctioning Tyrannical and Oppressive People within the Chinese Communist Party Act (Courtesy of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs and the Judiciary Republicans) 

    • Requires financial and visa sanctions on members of the Central Committee of the Chinese Communist Party, their spouses, and their adult family members who implement, design, or approve policies or laws that are designed to violate the autonomy of Hong Kong, intimidate Taiwan, or contribute to political oppression or violation of human rights within the People’s Republic of China. 
    • Despite the CCP’s continuing pattern of human rights abuse, political oppression, and aggression towards Taiwan, the administration has not taken any steps to implement meaningful sanctions tied to those who design and implement those policies. STOP CCP is designed to force implementation of sanctions against those individuals, while providing standard waiver authorities to avoid unintended collateral economic damage. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Samsung Launches 990 EVO Plus SSD With Best-in-Class Performance Speeds Supported by PCIe 4.0

    Source: Samsung

     
    Samsung Electronics, the world leader in advanced memory technology, today announced the release of the 990 EVO Plus, adding to its lineup of leading SSD products. With PCIe 4.0 support and latest NAND technology, the 990 EVO Plus is an ideal solution for consumers seeking enhanced performance and power efficiency on their PCs. Optimized for gaming, business and creative endeavors.
     
    “Our daily lives are increasingly demanding more data with the images we share on social media and high-quality video streaming,” said Hangu Sohn, Vice President of Memory Brand Product Biz Team at Samsung Electronics. “The 990 EVO Plus is built for laptop and desktop PC users seeking faster processing speeds and expanded storage capacity.”
     
     
    Enhanced Performance and Power Efficiency

     
    The 990 EVO Plus is built on decades of Samsung’s pioneering semiconductor technology with proven reliability. Sequential read speeds come up to 7250 megabytes-per-second (MB/s) and write speeds up to 6300MB/s, an enhancement of up to 50% over the previous 990 EVO. The performance boost is thanks to Samsung’s latest 8th generation V-NAND technology and 5-nanometer (nm) controller, while an innovative nickel-coated heat shield minimizes overheating, allowing 73% higher power efficiency than its predecessor.
     
    The 4TB model has an industry-leading random read speed of 1,050K IOPS and 1,400K input/output operations per second (IOPS) for random write. This remarkable performance nearly rivals that of SSD products with DRAM, despite not using DRAM cache, making it an optimal solution for gaming and AI tasks that require high performance.
     
     
    Expanded Storage Capacity
    The ever-increasing demand for high-capacity storage devices is driven by managing large-sized files, high-quality video editing and next-generation gaming. To meet today’s growing storage requirements, the 990 EVO Plus offers ample capacity with a 4TB model, exceeding the storage limits of the 990 EVO. The 990 EVO Plus is equipped with Samsung’s intelligent TurboWrite 2.0, revamped for maximized performance, offering rapid file transfer speeds and reduced lag.
     
     
    Samsung Magician Software Support
    Samsung Magician software presents a suite of optimization tools for enhanced functionality for all Samsung SSDs, including the 990 EVO Plus. Users can streamline the data migration process for SSD upgrades effortlessly and securely. In addition, Samsung Magician protects valuable data, monitors drive health and offers customized performance optimization.
     
    The 990 EVO Plus will be available to consumers worldwide at a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of $109.99 for the 1TB model, $184.99 for the 2TB model, and $344.99 for the 4TB model. For more information — including warranty details — please visit samsung.com/SSD or semiconductor.samsung.com/internal-ssd/. For a user guide on how to install the 990 EVO Plus onto your laptop or computer, visit https://semiconductor.samsung.com/consumer-storage/ssdupgrade/.
     
     
    Samsung SSD 990 EVO Plus Specifications

    Samsung SSD 990 EVO Plus
    Interface
    PCIe® Gen 4.0 x4 / 5.0 x2 NVMe 2.01
    Form Factor
    M.2 (2280)
    Storage Memory
    Samsung V-NAND 3-bit TLC
    Controller
    Samsung In-house Controller
    Capacity2
    1 TB
    2 TB
    4 TB
    Sequential Read/Write Speed 3,4
    Up to 7,150 MB/s, 6,300 MB/s
    Up to 7,250 MB/s, 6,300 MB/s
    Up to 7,250 MB/s, 6,300 MB/s
    Random Read/Write Speed (QD32) 3,4
    Up to 850K IOPS, 1,350K IOPS
    Up to 1,000K IOPS, 1,350K IOPS
    Up to 1,050K IOPS, 1,400K IOPS
    Management Software
    Samsung Magician Software
    Data Encryption
    AES 256-bit Full Disk Encryption, TCG/Opal V2.0,
    Encrypted Drive (IEEE1667)
    Total Bytes Written
    600 TB
    1200 TB
    2400 TB
    Warranty 5
    Five-year Limited Warranty 6
     
    * Product availability may vary depending on model and region.
     
     
    1 The NVM Express® design mark is a registered trademark of NVM Express, Inc.2 1GB = 1,000,000,000 bytes by IDEMA. A certain portion of capacity may be used for system file and maintenance use, so the actual capacity may differ from what is indicated on the product label.3,4 Sequential and random performance measurements are based on IOmeter1.1.0. Performance may vary based on an SSD’s firmware version, system hardware & configuration.
    Test system configuration: AMD Ryzen9 7950x 16-Core Processor CPU@4.5GHz, DDR5 4800MHz 16GBx2), OS-Windows 11 Pro 64bit, Chipset – ASRock X670E Taichi5 Samsung Electronics shall not be liable for any loss, including but not limited to loss of data or other information contained on Samsung Electronics’ products or loss of profit or revenue which may be incurred by the user. For more information on the warranty, please visit samsung.com/SSD or semiconductor.samsung.com/internal-ssd/6 Five years or total bytes written (TBW), whichever comes first. For more information on the warranty, please refer to the enclosed warranty document in the package.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI: TAB Bank Partners with The Fiesta Tableware Co., Dishing Up $4.5 Million in Financing to Serve Up Growth

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    OGDEN, Utah, Sept. 25, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — TAB Bank announces the closing of a $4.5 million credit facility with The Fiesta Tableware Co. of West Virginia. This partnership will ensure the American-made tableware company continues helping home chefs refresh and reinvent their table settings.

    The Fiesta Tableware Co., formerly known as The Homer Laughlin China Company, was established in 1871 and has been a leading producer of ceramic tableware in the United States for over a century. Based in Newell, West Virginia, The Fiesta Tableware Co. produces professional-grade dinnerware for retail stores and home chefs. The company is the last standing potter of its square footage in the country.

    “It has been a real pleasure to work with the TAB Bank team as we navigated the due diligence process and made the transition to TAB. We anticipate a strong mutually beneficial relationship in the months and years ahead,” commented Matt Wicks, Chief Operating Officer at The Fiesta Tableware Co.

    “We’re thrilled to partner with a company with a rich history of supporting American jobs and craftsmanship,” said Tyler Heap, President at TAB Bank. “We look forward to a strong and lasting relationship with such an iconic brand.”

    The $4.5 million credit facility will help The Fiesta Tableware Co. with its working capital needs as it continues scaling the company sustainably. The company is dedicated to the safety of its customers, the preservation of natural resources and a reduced environmental impact.

    TAB Bank provides various financial solutions to help small and midsize businesses, including term loans and lines of credit. The bank tailors its credit solutions to fit the specific needs of each company, ensuring consistent cash flow and the ability to scale. TAB Bank works closely with businesses to find the ideal financing for their unique situation, offering accounts receivable financing, equipment loans and asset-based lending.

    About TAB Bank
    At TAB Bank, our mission is to unlock dreams with bold financial solutions that empower individuals and businesses nationwide. We are committed to making financial success accessible to everyone through our innovative banking products. Our dedication drives us to continuously improve, ensuring that we meet the evolving needs of our clients with excellence and agility. For over 25 years, we have remained steadfast in offering tailored, technology-enabled solutions designed to simplify and enhance the banking experience. 

    For more information about how we can help you achieve your financial dreams, visit www.TABBank.com.

    Contact Information:
    Trevor Morris
    Director of Marketing
    801-624-5172
    trevor.morris@tabbank.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Department of Homeland Security Marks National “If You See Something, Say Something” Awareness Day

    Source: US Department of Homeland Security

    Annual #SeeSayDay is September 25 

    Encourages Public to “Spot the Signs. Report the Activity.” 

    Today the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is observing  #SeeSayDay, the “If You See Something, Say Something®” campaign’s annual national awareness day. This year’s theme, “Spot the Signs. Report the Activity,” highlights the crucial role of public vigilance in national security and counter-terrorism efforts within the current threat environment. The #SeeSayDay call-to-action urges individuals to spot and report suspicious activity to help prevent terrorism-related crime – on September 25, and year-round.  

    “Ensuring our collective security takes all of us, working together and looking out for each other,” said Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas. “Saying something when you see something could be the difference between life and death for a family member, friend, neighbor, or someone you don’t even know. Encourage your friends and others in your community to do the same, and we can help prevent tragedies and make our whole country safer.” 

    A 2024 RAND study of 628 plots targeting soft targets and crowded places found 64% of foiled attack plots were stopped because of public tips. The DHS “If You See Something, Say Something®” campaign, launched in July 2010 in conjunction with the Nationwide Suspicious Activity Reporting Initiative, reinforces that we must always be alert, and when we have information about a terrorism-related threat, speak up. The campaign aims to inspire Americans to participate in national security and foster positive relationships between citizens and law enforcement. On #SeeSayDay each year, DHS and its campaign partners across the country come together to remind the public that our American communities have a collective stake in homeland security.  

    Members of the public are encouraged to get involved on #SeeSayDay in several ways: 

    • Learn the 16 signs of suspicious activity. Remember: Factors such as race, ethnicity, gender, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, disability, or gender identity are not suspicious.  

    • Find and save your SAR number. Navigate to the campaign’s interactive map to look up the appropriate Suspicious Activity Reporting (SAR) number for wherever you live, work, vacation, or spend time – then save that number in your phone. As always, call 9-1-1 immediately for any emergencies. 

    • Use social media to spread the word. Access ready-to-use graphics, pre-drafted captions, and newsletter content that you can share on your personal or organization’s social media platforms and other communication channels to help raise awareness and promote this year’s theme on #SeeSayDay. Use the hashtag #SeeSayDay to note your involvement! 

    • Stay connected year-round. Learn more about the campaign, how to become a partner, and access other resources to share with your communities on September 25 or anytime of the year. 

    For more information on #SeeSayDay, visit DHS.gov/SeeSayDay.  

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New images offer glimpse into the future for Derby Market Hall

    Source: City of Derby

    New images provide a first look at how the inside of the refurbished Derby Market Hall will look once complete.

    The historic venue is being given a new lease of life to transform this heritage asset into an attractive retail and leisure destination fit for the future. The new images giving a glimpse of the retail space, make and trade units and new dining area.

    In all, the transformed market will offer:

    • A carefully curated mix of traditional and themed stalls, including quality fresh produce
    • Make and trade stalls and creative spaces
    • A cosmopolitan food court and bars
    • Events and pop-up activity

    Councillor Nadine Peatfield, Leader of Derby City Council, said:

    “The transformation of Derby Market Hall is a reflection of our collective ambition to create a city that everyone can take pride in, and while people can see the improvements we’ve made externally, many people may still be wondering what the building will look like inside.

    “These new images will give the public the first idea of what the venue will look like as we make this irreplaceable heritage building fit for the future.

    “This project is not just about transforming the Market Hall; it’s about bringing the people of Derby together to create a space we can all be proud of.  We invite traders, entrepreneurs and businesses from across the region to join the vibrant community we are building.” 

    The £35.1m project is partly funded with £9.43m from the Governments Future High Streets Fund (FHSF). The second phase of the transformation is well underway, focusing on refurbishing the interior and developing the public space outside at Osnabruck Square.

    Located at the heart of the city centre, linking Derbion and St Peter’s Quarter with the Cathedral Quarter and Becketwell, the new Market Hall will play a key role in widening the diversity of the city centre and generate £3.64m for the local economy every year.

    Businesses throughout the region are invited to register their interest in operating from the refurbished Market Hall, which will bring together the best of the region’s independent shopping, eating, drinking and entertainment when it reopens in Spring 2025.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Gabe Vasquez Calls for Immediate Passage of Radiation Exposure Compensation Act

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Gabe Vasquez’s (NM-02)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – On September 24, 2024, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (D-N.M.-02), alongside a bipartisan group of Senators, Representatives and advocates,urged the immediate passage of the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA). Vasquez called for the inclusion of New Mexicans who were affected by radiation exposure due to uranium mining and the world’s first atomic bomb test in the bill.

    WATCH: Vasquez Pushes for RECA Expansion

    “The Radiation Exposure Compensation Act is bipartisan legislation with Democrats and Republicans coming together. But let’s be clear—Speaker Mike Johnson has been absent in leadership and has failed the people of New Mexico. He has left radiation victims neglected and forced to bear the burden of generational illness without a speck of aid or recognition,” said Vasquez. “We must reauthorize and expand RECA to deliver justice and compensation to our southern New Mexico communities, rural areas, Tribal nations and all those impacted by the development and testing of nuclear weapons.”

     This month, Vasquez will be sending a letter to leadership on the House and Senate Armed Services Committee’s outlining his priorities for the final National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2025 (FY25). At the top of his list of priorities will be including RECA reauthorization and expansion for New Mexican Downwinders and post-1971 uranium miners as a part of the must-pass legislation. 

    In May, Vasquez led an amendment with Delegate James Moylan (R-Guam) during the markup of the NDAA to include RECA in the defense bill for FY25. He also called on Speaker Johnson to correct the injustice caused by the federal government. 

    In April, Vasquez demanded an apology to New Mexico’s victims and confirmed Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin’s support for expanding RECA during a House Armed Services Committee Hearing. He also called on House Armed Services Committee Chairman Mike Rogers and Ranking Member Adam Smith to work with him on including RECA reauthorization and expansion in the FY25 NDAA.

    In March, Vasquez called on Speaker Johnson, urging him to include the Radiation Exposure Compensation Reauthorization Act in the final FY24 appropriations package.

    Vasquez is also an original cosponsor of H.R. 4426, the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act Amendments of 2023 to include New Mexican downwinder communities in RECA coverage.

    Vasquez remains dedicated to his commitment to securing compensation for all those affected by the events that have adversely impacted the health of his community. He actively collaborates across the aisle to ensure his colleagues understand the gravity of this and the need to advance RECA expansion for a vote on the House floor. 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: S. 2018, Connect Our Parks Act

    Source: US Congressional Budget Office

    S. 2018 would require the Department of the Interior to assess locations in national parks with inadequate access to broadband Internet or cellular service and develop a plan to install the necessary infrastructure. The bill would require the department to complete the assessment within one year of enactment and the plan within three years.

    Using information from the department, CBO estimates that implementing S. 2018 would cost $8 million over the 2024-2029 period. CBO expects that the department would need four full-time employees at an annual cost per-person of about $200,000 in 2025 and would incur roughly $7 million in costs for administrative expenses and travel related to the initial assessment. Based on the cost of similar activities, CBO expects that developing the plan would cost $1 million. Any related spending would be subject to the availability of appropriated funds.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Hong Kong enjoys a high degree of academic freedom – HKSAR Government rejects the baseless smears by the so-called Human Rights Watch and Hong Kong Democracy Council

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) stated today (September 25) that it strongly condemned and rejected the report on the academic freedom of Hong Kong published by the so-called Human Rights Watch and Hong Kong Democracy Council yesterday (September 24). The content of the report are all maliciously smears and sweeping remarks. The HKSAR Government must point out its errors to set the record straight.

         A spokesman for the HKSAR Government stressed, “The fundamental rights and freedoms of Hong Kong residents have all along been guaranteed at the constitutional level by the Basic Law. HKSAR’s laws to safeguard national security attach special importance to human rights. Both the Hong Kong National Security Law (HKNSL) and the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance (SNSO) have clearly stipulated that human rights shall be respected and protected in safeguarding national security in the HKSAR and that the rights and freedoms which the residents of Hong Kong enjoy under the Basic Law and the provisions of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights as applied to Hong Kong shall be protected in accordance with the law. Any measures or enforcement actions taken under the relevant laws must observe the above principle.

         “After the implementation of the HKNSL, Hong Kong residents continue to enjoy various rights and freedoms, including the freedom of academic research, literary and artistic creation and other cultural activities, freedom of expression, freedom of assembly and freedom of association. According to Article 137 of the Basic Law, educational institutions of all kinds may retain their autonomy and enjoy academic freedom. Hong Kong residents can exercise their freedom of expression legitimately, including criticising government policies or decisions made by officials.

         “The offences stipulated in the NSL and the SNSO clearly define their elements, penalties, exceptions and defences. These laws actively prevent, suppress and punish acts and activities that endanger national security, in accordance with the principle of the rule of law. Additionally, they target an extremely small minority of people and organisations that pose a threat to national security, while protecting the lives and property of the public. Law-abiding people including students, scholars, and other academics will not engage in acts and activities that endanger national security and will not unwittingly violate the law, and therefore have no reason to be worried.”

         The spokesman said, “We noticed that most of the interviewees of the so-called report have used pseudonyms, which is a tactics frequently adopted by anti-China forces, making it difficult to ascertain if the interviewees truly exist. Therefore, the authenticity and credibility of the so-called report is questionable.”

         As regard to the so-called report containing fabricated content and irresponsible remarks saying that academic freedom has declined in Hong Kong, the spokesman stressed, “Academic freedom is an important social value treasured in Hong Kong and the cornerstone of Hong Kong’s higher education sector. The HKSAR Government attaches great importance to upholding academic freedom and institutional autonomy, which are both enshrined in the Basic Law. These safeguards are clear and specific, and their effectiveness has never changed. Since the implementation of the NSL, academics or post-secondary education institutions in Hong Kong continue to conduct normal exchange activities between their foreign or external counterparts.”

         The spokesman said, “National security is essential for the prosperity and stability of society as well as for its people to live and work in peace and contentment. Without security and stability, there is no way to talk about anything. We should not forget the painful experiences Hong Kong endured in 2019, including the riots in campuses that severely disrupted normal teaching and academic research.”

         The spokesman stressed, “Enacting laws safeguarding national security fully aligns with the principles of international law, international practice and common practice adopted in various countries and regions. It is both necessary and legitimate. The HKNSL and SNSO complement each other, providing a strong framework for safeguarding national security in Hong Kong. This allows all sectors, especially higher education, to flourish in a safe and stable environment, enabling scholars and students to pursue their studies and research in a stable, secure, and inclusive setting.

         “The HKSAR Government is committed to developing Hong Kong into an international education hub and will continue to work closely with the higher education sector in capitalising on Hong Kong’s strengths. Through various key initiatives, the Government will support expansion and quality enhancement of institutions, promote academic exchanges and research collaborations, and promote a more diversified campus culture, so as to enhance the competitiveness of the institutions and students in the globalised environment.

         “In fact, over the years, Hong Kong’s publicly-funded universities have continued to be highly rated in international rankings and among the best in Asia. In the World University Rankings 2025 published by Quacquarelli Symonds (QS), an international higher education organisation, five publicly-funded universities have stayed in the world’s top 100, highlighting that Hong Kong’s universities are highly reputable in the global academic community, with excellent performances in terms of quality of teaching and research, and internationalisation, thereby attracting experts and talent from around the world. At present, four University Grants Committee-funded universities are ranked among the top 10 most internationalised universities in the world.

         “The HKSAR Government will continue to lead Hong Kong in fully focusing on development, improving people’s livelihoods, and maintaining the long-term prosperity and stability of the city.”

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: AFSCME’s Saunders pays tribute to labor legend Bill Lucy

    Source: American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees Union

    WASHINGTON – President Lee Saunders released this statement following the death of AFSCME Secretary-Treasurer Emeritus Bill Lucy:

    “Bill Lucy was a giant, one of the most accomplished and influential trade unionists ever — in any country, at any moment in history. He did as much as anyone to advance the dignity of all working people here in the United States and around the world. He was one of our greatest warriors ever for civil rights, labor rights and human rights.

    “From his leadership in the 1968 Memphis sanitation strike, to the founding of the Coalition of Black Trade Unionists, to his role in defeating and dismantling South African apartheid, he was a courageous trailblazer. On behalf of 1.4 million AFSCME members, I am so grateful for his visionary leadership from the moment he first joined our union nearly 70 years ago.

    “On a personal level, he was a mentor to me, someone I leaned on for counsel and wisdom. I stand on his shoulders, and I will continue to be inspired by his example. Rest in power, brother.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: OSCE training course strengthens police response to violence against women and girls in North Macedonia

    Source: Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe – OSCE

    Headline: OSCE training course strengthens police response to violence against women and girls in North Macedonia

    Participants of the training course on gender-responsive policing of violence against women and girls at the Police Training Center in Idrizovo, North Macedonia, 19 September 2024. (OSCE/Bjorn T. Saltvik) Photo details

    From 18 to 24 September, the OSCE’s Transnational Threats Department held a training course on gender-responsive policing of violence against women and girls in Idrizovo, North Macedonia.
    A total of 505 police cadets (150 women, 355 men) from the Police Training Center learned how to effectively respond to cases of violence against women and girls while maintaining a victim-/survivor-centred approach.
    The one-week course covered topics such as the definitions of key terms and concepts; the importance of the victim-centred approach; reporting and the role of the police in detecting and preventing gender-based violence; implementing protective measures and conducting risk assessments; the neurobiology of trauma; and the psychology of victims and perpetrators.
    “Gender-based violence (GBV) is a serious crime that police officers need to handle in a way that protects and supports the victims. When the police succeed in doing that, it builds vital trust among the public and the authorities,” said OSCE Project Manager Bjorn Tore Saltvik. He underlined that all police officers need to be trained to provide an appropriate response, while holding the perpetrators accountable.
    During the training course, the Centre for Youth Education (CEM) from Bosnia and Herzegovina, performed the role-play ‘Lullaby Goodbye’, based on the true story of a teenage girl who was exploited online which had a devastating effect on her life. The role-play also represented testimonies of numerous victims of this growing form of gender-based violence.
    In addition, all police cadets attended a screening of the film “Domestic Violence”, which is produced by the International Association Chiefs of Police and highlights experiences from several real GBV cases in the U.S.
    The training course and film-screening were organized in co-ordination with the OSCE Mission to Skopje and the Police Training Center, and took place under the “Enhancing Criminal Justice Capacities for Combating Gender-based Violence in South-Eastern Europe” project, which is funded by Austria, Germany, Finland, France, Italy and Norway.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: OSCE Presence trains Albanian State Police on environmental enforcement and investigation techniques

    Source: Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe – OSCE

    Headline: OSCE Presence trains Albanian State Police on environmental enforcement and investigation techniques

    Participants of training on environmental enforcement and investigation techniques that the OSCE Presence in Albania organized for the Albanian State Police on 25 and 26 September 2024, Tirana, 25 September 2024. (OSCE/) Photo details

    On 25 September 2024, the OSCE Presence in Albania started a two-day training for the Albanian State Police on environmental enforcement and investigation techniques. The training brought together 17 police officers from all 12 regional directorate of police across Albania which cover criminal police, public safety, and environmental crime unit.
    The training was delivered by a group of mixed international and national experts. The participants were equipped with knowledge of the domestic and international standards on environmental enforcement and investigation of environment crime in the European Union and Albania. They also benefitted from the experience and practices of the Slovak Environmental Crime Unit, its police structure of environmental crime police officers and their inter-institutional co-ordination. 
    “We hope that these two-day training and discussion will be useful for your work and will serve as a platform for collaboration and knowledge-sharing among all stakeholders invested in combating environmental crimes in Albania,”, said the Head of the Presence, Ambassador Michel Tarran, who opened the event alongside the Director of Criminal Police Department at the Albanian State Police, Neritan Nallbati.
    The training builds upon the Presence’s support to environmental governance and security in Albania and its active involvement in developing national capacities to address such challenges.
    In 2023, the Presence developed and delivered a new curriculum on environmental legislation for the School of Magistrates in Albania for the initial education system 2023-2024. In December 2023, the Presence supported a training needs assessment for all the institutional chains dealing with environmental enforcement in Albania and is working to address some of those needs within the frame of the project. The training need assessment underlined the importance of systematic training programs for civil servant of institutions dealing with environmental violations. It shed light on the current state of affairs, identified gaps in knowledge and skills, and ultimately paved the way for strategic interventions that will empower relevant stakeholders in their efforts to combat environmental crimes effectively.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Dartmouth — Nova Scotia RCMP release quarterly provincial impaired statistics for April to June 2024

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    As Nova Scotia’s provincial police, road safety is a top priority for the RCMP. In an effort to keep citizens informed about enforcement on our roadways, Nova Scotia RCMP is releasing statistics for all RCMP detachments in Nova Scotia from April to June 2024 on drivers charged for driving impaired by drugs or alcohol.

    For the months of April, May and June, the Nova Scotia RCMP charged 222 drivers with impaired-related offences.

    • 188 charged with Impaired Operation of a Conveyance by Alcohol
    • 10 charged with Impaired Operation of a Conveyance by Drug
    • 24 charged with Refusal of a Demand Made by a Peace Officer

    In addition to investigations that resulted in charges, a further 148 people were issued administrative driving suspensions for Operating a Conveyance While Having Consumed Alcohol.

    Impaired driving investigations can be complex, especially when they involve both alcohol and drugs. This is why Nova Scotia RCMP officers receive a variety of training, and have several tools at their disposal. In Nova Scotia, there are approximately 419 RCMP members with training related to drug-impaired driving, thirty-two of whom are Drug Recognition Experts (DREs). Nova Scotia RCMP also has 427 trained breath technicians who are qualified to operate instruments that determine a driver’s blood alcohol concentration.

    Failure or refusal to comply with a demand made by a peace officer for a sample for testing sobriety can result in criminal charges that have the same penalties as impaired driving. There are range of fines and periods of driving prohibition for those convicted of driving while impaired by alcohol or drugs.

    Citizens are asked to call 911 immediately if you see a driver who is driving erratically or unsafely. Here are some signs of an impaired driver to watch for:

    • Driving unreasonably fast, slow or at an inconsistent speed
    • Drifting in and out of lanes
    • Tailgating and changing lanes frequently
    • Making exceptionally wide turns
    • Changing lanes or passing without sufficient clearance
    • Overshooting or stopping well before stop signs or stop lights
    • Disregarding signals and lights
    • Approaching signals or leaving intersections too quickly or slowly
    • Driving without headlights, failing to lower high beams or leaving turn signals on
    • Driving with windows open in cold or inclement weather

    Once you call 911, you will be asked to provide the following:

    • Your location
    • A description of the vehicle, including the license plate number, colour, make and model
    • The direction of travel for the vehicle
    • A description of the driver if visible.

    We would like to remind Nova Scotians to plan ahead and drive sober.

    MIL Security OSI –