Category: MIL-OSI

MIL-OSI: Davidson Kempner Capital Management LP : Form 8.3 – International Paper Company

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

FORM 8.3

PUBLIC OPENING POSITION DISCLOSURE/DEALING DISCLOSURE BY
A PERSON WITH INTERESTS IN RELEVANT SECURITIES REPRESENTING 1% OR MORE
Rule 8.3 of the Takeover Code (the “Code”)

1. KEY INFORMATION

(a) Full name of discloser:	Davidson Kempner Capital Management LP
(b) Owner or controller of interests and short positions disclosed, if different from 1(a): The naming of nominee or vehicle companies is insufficient. For a trust, the trustee(s), settlor and beneficiaries must be named.
(c) Name of offeror/offeree in relation to whose relevant securities this form relates: Use a separate form for each offeror/offeree	International Paper Company
(d) If an exempt fund manager connected with an offeror/offeree, state this and specify identity of offeror/offeree:
(e) Date position held/dealing undertaken: For an opening position disclosure, state the latest practicable date prior to the disclosure	23/09/2024
(f) In addition to the company in 1(c) above, is the discloser making disclosures in respect of any other party to the offer? If it is a cash offer or possible cash offer, state “N/A”	Yes, Smith (DS) plc

2. POSITIONS OF THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE

If there are positions or rights to subscribe to disclose in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 2(a) or (b) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security.

(a) Interests and short positions in the relevant securities of the offeror or offeree to which the disclosure relates following the dealing (if any)

Class of relevant security:
	Interests		Short positions
	Number	%	Number	%
(1) Relevant securities owned and/or controlled:	310,000	0.09	2,361,199	0.68
(2) Cash-settled derivatives:
(3) Stock-settled derivatives (including options) and agreements to purchase/sell:
TOTAL:	310,000	0.09	2,361,199	0.68

All interests and all short positions should be disclosed.

Details of any open stock-settled derivative positions (including traded options), or agreements to purchase or sell relevant securities, should be given on a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions).

(b) Rights to subscribe for new securities (including directors’ and other employee options)

Class of relevant security in relation to which subscription right exists:
Details, including nature of the rights concerned and relevant percentages:

3. DEALINGS (IF ANY) BY THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE

Where there have been dealings in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 3(a), (b), (c) or (d) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security dealt in.

The currency of all prices and other monetary amounts should be stated.

(a) Purchases and sales

Class of relevant security	Purchase/sale	Number of securities	Price per unit
Common Stock	Purchase	3,646	USD 48.4018
Common Stock	Purchase	3,114	USD 48.4156
Common Stock	Purchase	100	USD 48.4400
Common Stock	Purchase	501	USD 48.5096
Common Stock	Purchase	53	USD 48.3150
Common Stock	Purchase	2,586	USD 48.3939

(b) Cash-settled derivative transactions

Class of relevant security

Product description
e.g. CFD

Nature of dealing
e.g. opening/closing a long/short position, increasing/reducing a long/short position

Number of reference securities

Price per unit

(c) Stock-settled derivative transactions (including options)

(i) Writing, selling, purchasing or varying

Class of relevant security

Product description e.g. call option

Writing, purchasing, selling, varying etc.

Number of securities to which option relates

Exercise price per unit

Type
e.g. American, European etc.

Expiry date

Option money paid/ received per unit

(ii) Exercise

Class of relevant security

Product description
e.g. call option

Exercising/ exercised against

Number of securities

Exercise price per unit

(d) Other dealings (including subscribing for new securities)

Class of relevant security

Nature of dealing
e.g. subscription, conversion

Details

Price per unit (if applicable)

4. OTHER INFORMATION

(a) Indemnity and other dealing arrangements

Details of any indemnity or option arrangement, or any agreement or understanding, formal or informal, relating to relevant securities which may be an inducement to deal or refrain from dealing entered into by the person making the disclosure and any party to the offer or any person acting in concert with a party to the offer:
Irrevocable commitments and letters of intent should not be included. If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”

None

(b) Agreements, arrangements or understandings relating to options or derivatives

Details of any agreement, arrangement or understanding, formal or informal, between the person making the disclosure and any other person relating to:
(i) the voting rights of any relevant securities under any option; or
(ii) the voting rights or future acquisition or disposal of any relevant securities to which any derivative is referenced:
If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”

None

(c) Attachments

Is a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions) attached?

Date of disclosure:	24/09/2024
Contact name:	Alex McMillan
Telephone number:	646 282 5805

Public disclosures under Rule 8 of the Code must be made to a Regulatory Information Service.

The Panel’s Market Surveillance Unit is available for consultation in relation to the Code’s disclosure requirements on +44 (0)20 7638 0129.

The Code can be viewed on the Panel’s website at www.thetakeoverpanel.org.uk.

The MIL Network –

September 29, 2024

MIL-OSI Africa: Let’s be alive to the impact of climate change – Acting President Mashatile

Source: South Africa News Agency

As South Africa celebrates Heritage Day, Acting President Paul Mashatile emphasised the need to recognise the growing impact of climate change on the nation’s well-being and cultural heritage.

Delivering the keynote address during Heritage Day celebrations in Ficksburg, Free State, Mashatile urged citizens to be mindful of how climate change threatens both livelihoods and cultural traditions.

The Acting President expressed his honour in addressing the nation on Heritage Day but noted that celebrations were overshadowed by severe weather affecting parts of KwaZulu-Natal, the Eastern Cape, and the Free State.

“It is a great honour and privilege to address you at this significant occasion as we celebrate our country’s Heritage Day. Unfortunately, as we were looking forward to this day, some parts of our country, which include Kwa-Zulu Natal, Eastern Cape and Free State, were impacted by severe weather conditions, exacerbated by climate change.

“In celebrating our heritage, we must be alive to the impact of climate change on not only our wellbeing, but also on our culture. Extreme weather conditions such as those witnessed over the past few days affect some of our cultural and heritage sites, therefore undermining our national goals to protect and preserve our culture for generations to come,” he said.

Mashatile expressed empathy for those affected by the recent extreme weather events in parts of South Africa.

“We empathise with those who were affected by the widespread extreme weather. We would also like to commend Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, and Government Departments for their prompt and robust multi-sectoral response. Additionally, we commend the provinces that were impacted for their prompt activation of their disaster response structures,” the Acting President said.

He said the response teams led by NATJOINTS remain on standby to respond to any eventualities and continue to assist affected communities.

“Even while these teams are committed to helping and saving those in need, we nonetheless ask that our people exercise caution and pay close attention to any warnings issued by the South African Weather Service.

“These meteorological conditions emphasise even more how important it is to increase our investments in technology that may improve weather predictions.

“We can save lives by providing early warnings of storms, heat waves, and disasters. Our sincere condolences to the families of those who have lost their loved ones,” he said.

The Acting President urged the Department of Sports, Arts and Culture to explore policy considerations concerning the impact of climate change on the nation’s historical heritage, but also provide direction on how best the country can preserve the national identity in this era of multiple global challenges. – SAnews.gov.za

MIL OSI Africa –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI: Innofactor Plc: Managers’ Transactions – Anna Lindén

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

Innofactor Plc Managers’ Transactions, on September 24, 2024, at 17:20 Finnish time

Innofactor Oyj – Managers’ Transactions

____________________________________________

Person subject to the notification requirement

Name: Anna Lindén

Position: Member of the Board/Deputy member

Issuer: Innofactor Oyj

LEI: 7437008OSKQFEDZYD835

Notification type: INITIAL NOTIFICATION

Reference number: 78673/5/4

____________________________________________

Transaction date: 2024-09-19

Venue: NASDAQ HELSINKI LTD (XHEL)

Instrument type: SHARE

ISIN: FI0009007637

Nature of transaction: DISPOSAL

Transaction details

(1): Volume: 4500 Unit price: 1.68 EUR

Aggregated transactions (1):

Volume: 4500 Volume weighted average price: 1.68 EU

Espoo, September 24, 2024

INNOFACTOR PLC

Eija Theis, General Counsel

Additional information:
Eija Theis, General Counsel
Innofactor Plc
Tel. +358 44 343 4278
eija.theis@innofactor.com

Distribution:
NASDAQ Helsinki
Main media
www.innofactor.com

Innofactor
Innofactor is the leading driver of the modern digital organization in the Nordic Countries for its about 1,000 customers in commercial and public sector. Innofactor has the widest solution offering and leading know-how in the Microsoft ecosystem in the Nordics. Innofactor has about 600 enthusiastic and motivated top specialists in Finland, Sweden, Denmark and Norway. The Innofactor Plc share is listed in the technology section of the main list of NASDAQ Helsinki Oy. www.innofactor.com
#ModernDigitalOrganization #PeopleFirst #CreatingSmiles #BeTheRealYou

The MIL Network –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI Africa: War affects girls and boys differently: what we found in our study of children in the DRC

Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Roos van der Haer, Assistant professor of International Relations at the Institute of Political Science, Leiden University

War has become a regular part of life for many children. Millions are victims and witnesses to the horrors of war. Recent estimates by researchers at the Peace Research Institute Oslo show that one in six children globally lives in a conflict zone, and Africa has the highest number of conflict-affected children.

Many children are forced to become child soldiers. In other cases, such as during the 1994 genocide in Rwanda, violence is aimed at children.

In recent years, researchers from various fields have been studying the impact on children of growing up in war zones. Psychologists, for example, have been researching how conflict affects children’s mental health and behaviour. Economists have examined, among other issues, how growing up in these environments can limit future earning capabilitites. Other scholars have investigated how war shapes the long-term (political) attitudes of these children.

Despite this growing body of research, we – a group of researchers who look into the causes and consequences of armed conflict for children – spotted two key gaps.

Read more: Why some rebel groups force kids to fight: it depends on how they are funded

First, much of the literature treats children’s experiences as if they were the same across different contexts. Few studies have considered the distinct experiences of girls as soldiers or how these differ from boys’ experiences.

Second, while some research does explore these gender differences, it often focuses only on what happens during the conflict. It doesn’t consider how these experiences affect social relationships when the conflict ends. This is despite scholars and policymakers highlighting that girls’ experiences in war are fundamentally different from those of boys due to their different status and role in society.

To address these gaps, we conducted an exploratory study from 2018 to 2019 on the experiences of boys and girls during conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). We studied how these gendered experiences might have affected their social relationships after the war. We interviewed 315 children aged between 12 and 18, with different levels of exposure to conflict. This included 186 respondents who had been involved in armed groups.

Our recently published analysis revealed, as expected, that many children had witnessed or experienced various conflict-related events during their life-time. Most children reported seeing homes and property destroyed, and many had witnessed people being beaten or tortured by armed forces. Fewer children reported being sexually assaulted or raped or injured by weapons such as gunshots or stabbings, though sadly these were not rare occurrences either.

We found that boys were generally more exposed to conflict than girls. This difference is largely due to boys being more involved with armed groups and more likely to perpetrate violence.

These experiences of conflict can have lasting effects on children’s relationships with their families, friends, teachers and other important social groups. These connections are crucial for a child’s development and wellbeing.

The differences between how boys and girls are affected are important considerations in building appropriate and effective psychosocial support programmes, with tools that address gender-specific needs in conflict or post-conflict situations.

The study

We gathered information from 315 structured interviews with Congolese children. Some of these boys and girls had been actively involved with armed groups in the eastern provinces of the DRC, while others had less direct exposure to the conflict.

Conflict and human rights violations are widespread in the DRC. World Vision has called the decades-long conflict in the country “one of the worst child protection crises in the world”. Further, in a recent UN report on children and armed conflict, 3,377 verified grave violations against children in the DRC were identified. Of these, 46% involved the recruitment of children – some as young as five – by armed forces or groups.

To examine how the armed conflict has affected Congolese boys and girls, we collected data between 2018 and 2019 in the South Kivu province of eastern DRC. We selected our participants with the help and consent of five local child protective organisations.

Our analysis first explored what the boys and girls had experienced during conflict. Then we associated these gendered experiences with differences in social behaviour. We looked at whether there were gender differences in the children’s key relationships with family, friends (and other social groups) and their teachers.

Read more: War devastates the lives of children: what the research tells us, and what can be done

First, we found that war disrupted the family’s ability to provide safety and security, and both children and their caregivers might suffer from the emotional and psychological toll of the conflict. Our study found that girls tended to have a stronger relationship with their family and caretakers compared to boys after conflict. This aligns with previous research suggesting boys may face more challenges in maintaining family relationships. This is particularly the case for those that were active as child soldiers.

Second, our analysis found that boys tended to have more diverse friendship networks than girls, even when comparing former boy soldiers to girl soldiers. Friendships are vital for a child’s wellbeing. Strong and diverse friendships are linked to better mental health, tolerance and understanding.

Lastly, we looked at how gender and war experiences might affect relationships between students and teachers. Armed conflict can have devastating effects on the educational attainment of children. Education, however, supports war-affected children and adolescents in several important ways. Structured school rules, regulations and activities establish a sense of normality, which is crucial to the healing process and wellbeing of children. Overall, the children interviewed had a very positive view of their schools or training programmes. They felt safe, enjoyed spending time with their classmates and viewed their teachers as helpful and caring. However, girls – especially former girl soldiers – were significantly more likely than boys to report that their teachers were sympathetic and supportive.

Why the findings matter

Our research is one of the first to highlight significant differences in how boys and girls experience war, and how these experiences shape their social relationships.

Addressing the differences in the needs of boys and girls after conflict not only improves their wellbeing, but is also likely to positively affect entire households, post-conflict regions and post-conflict countries. While our study sheds light on these differences, more research is needed to understand them in greater depth and, most importantly, to explain why they occur.

Are these differences the result of psychological trauma, behavioural changes, or specific events that happened before or during the conflict? Moreover, we know very little about the long-term effects of war exposure – do these differences fade over time, or do they persist? And how can communities play a role in helping children to overcome these challenges? Do we also observe these differences in other conflicts at other periods?

Understanding these differences is key for policymakers working to develop effective support programmes. Developing and increasing the availability of gender-responsive approaches can help strengthen the resilience of children after conflict. It may also work to strengthen their agency and resilience before conflict.

– War affects girls and boys differently: what we found in our study of children in the DRC
– https://theconversation.com/war-affects-girls-and-boys-differently-what-we-found-in-our-study-of-children-in-the-drc-238789

MIL OSI Africa –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI USA: NEWS: Sanders Releases New Report, PBMs Welcome Lower List Prices for Ozempic and Wegovy

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Vermont – Bernie Sanders
WASHINGTON, Sept. 24 – Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Chair of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee, today released a new report uncovering how Novo Nordisk, as one health insurance plan described it, is using its “position of power” to “squeeze” plans, and “boost its corporate profits.”
“Today, Novo Nordisk charges Americans with Type 2 diabetes $969 a month for Ozempic, while this same exact drug can be purchased for just $59 in Germany, $71 in France, $122 in Denmark, and $155 in Canada,” said Sanders. “There is only one reason they can justify charging Americans such outrageous prices for the drugs they need: Excessive corporate greed.”
Novo Nordisk claims that PBMs and health insurance plans are the reason for high prices for Ozempic and Wegovy, and previously stated that PBMs failed to assure the company that its products would maintain formulary access if it lowered its list prices.
Today, three major PBMs that help determine drug coverage for most of the nation – Cigna Group/Express Scripts, CVS Health/Caremark, UnitedHealth Group/Optum Rx – confirmed to Chair Sanders that a list price reduction would not negatively impact formulary placement for Ozempic and Wegovy, and affirmed that lower list prices would, in fact, make the drugs more widely available to patients in need.
Cigna/Express Scripts said: “No, if Novo Nordisk lowered their list price for Ozempic and Wegovy tomorrow to a price that was the same or lower than current net cost, that change by itself would not result in less favorable formulary placement.” To support this claim, the company provided an example: It did not disfavor a competing weight-loss product, Eli Lilly’s Zepbound, even as it launched at a list price 20% lower than Wegovy.
UnitedHealthGroup/Optum Rx said: “No. Assuming the net price remains the same or lower, lowering a medicine’s list price would not lead to less favorable formulary placement by Optum Rx – particularly for high-demand drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy.
CVS Health/Caremark said: “The simple answer is no. In fact, we can point to recent history as a proof point. When Novo-Nordisk drastically reduced the price of their insulin, Novolog, in 2023, it did not result in a less favorable formulary placement with Caremark.”
Novo Nordisk has also justified its astronomical prices by arguing a need to fund future research and development.
However, since launching Ozempic in 2018, Novo Nordisk has spent twice as much on stock buybacks and dividends ($44 billion) as it has on research and development ($21 billion), according to financial filings.
Novo Nordisk has also lavished cash and perks on health care providers, sending doctors on trips to Alaska, Hawaii, and Florida and paying for nearly 1.7 million meals and snacks to doctors to promote Ozempic and Wegovy, federal records show.
The report can be read here.

MIL OSI USA News –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI USA: Welch Introduces LOCAL Foods Act to Better Support Rural Producers and Communities

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)
WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) led Senators Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) and Cory Booker (D-N.J.) in introducing the Livestock Owned by Communities to Advance Local (LOCAL) Foods Act, legislation to update the Federal Meat Inspection Act of 1906’s (FMIA) ‘Personal-Use Exemption’to better support small-scale meat producers in rural communities. The LOCAL Foods Act would codify current USDA guidance on Personal-Use and Custom Exemptions, allowing consumers to buy live animals from producers and designate agents to handle the slaughter and processing of their meat.
The Federal Meat Inspection Act requires all meat in the United States to be inspected by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). However, the small number of USDA-inspected slaughterhouses creates bottlenecks for producers, especially small-scale producers that have to compete for slaughterhouse time with much larger operations. To address this, the LOCAL Foods Act will amend Personal-Use and Custom Exemptions to allow producers to sell a live animal to a consumer. The consumer will then have the freedom to either hire someone or slaughter and process the meat themselves, helping farmers to avoid bottlenecks to continue providing their communities with locally sourced food.
“For generations, Vermonters have depended on their neighbors for locally-grown produce and farm-fresh meat. However, regulations tailored toward large-scale farms have made it harder for smaller farms to sell in their own communities. Keeping our small-scale producers competitive means cutting through red tape to help them compete with companies that have massive operations,” said Senator Welch. “This bill will update federal guidelines to better support Vermont-sized producers, keep our food local, and strengthen our food systems.”
In 2013, Vermont adopted an on-farm slaughter law similar to the Food Safety and Inspection Service’s guidelines to allow owners to slaughter their livestock on the farm where it was raised while upholding food safety standards. This law helps reduce costs and emissions from animal transport, alleviate pressure on backlogged slaughterhouses, increase farm viability, and improve animal welfare and food security. However, USDA retains the authority to eliminate Vermont’s on-farm slaughter inspection program if the state fails to meet federal standards.
In 2018, the USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service issued updated guidelines to create an avenue for producers to sell their produce locally and without an inspection. This guidance gives livestock owners the option to slaughter livestock themselves, or have an agent slaughter their livestock on the farm where it was raised. This change also allows producers to sell a live animal to a consumer, have it slaughtered on the farm, and then processed at a custom processing facility. Custom processing facilities are inspected periodically, in contrast to round-the-clock inspectors that are present at USDA-certified facilities.
The LOCAL Foods Act is endorsed by the Farm Action Fund, Farmers and Ranchers Freedom Alliance, Farm-to-Consumer Defense Fund, Kentucky Black Farmers Association, National Family Farm Coalition, and Rural Vermont.
“Updating the personal-use exemption to be based on ownership aligns with current USDA standards and is needed to protect the rights of livestock owners, producers, and itinerant slaughterers to practice on-farm slaughter in accordance with their state regulations,” said Caroline Sherman-Gordon, small farmer and Rural Vermont’s Legislative Director. “Protecting farmers from subjective interpretations of the personal-use exception will protect farmers from unfair sanctions and give the security they need to grow their business.”
“The LOCAL Foods Act will reduce both financial and regulatory burdens on small farmers and thereby improve consumers’ access to local foods,” said Judith McGeary, regenerative farmer, lawyer, and Executive Director of the Farmers and Ranchers Freedom Alliance. “So many consumers want to buy from local farmers instead of massive corporations, but the farmers are blocked by regulations written by and for Agribusiness.”
“Modernizing the personal-use exception reflects the realities of diverse communities demanding access to local food that honor their traditions,” said Kenya Abraham, member of the Kentucky Black Farmers Association. “We are observing a growing demand to access local producers like me, but we need legislation that gives us an incentive to continue our operations.”
“The LOCAL Foods Act protects the rights of farmers and consumers to engage in direct commerce by increasing small livestock farmers’ ability to expand their business, and by allowing consumers to buy meat from local farms instead of industrial meat providers, should they so choose. Essentially, it protects the rights of farmers to sell the products of the farm and the rights of consumers to access the foods of their choice from the source of their choice, achieving the kind of food freedom so many demand for themselves, their families, and their communities,” said Christine Dzujna, Farm-to-Consumer Defense Fund’s Policy Manager.
“Securing the independence of farmers and consumers is key to building a healthy food system in the Country,” said Antonio Tovar, Senior Policy Associate at the National Family Farm Coalition. “The fact that consumers are effectively forced to access their food from corporations has made us vulnerable to a weak and unreliable market. The LOCAL Foods Act offers a real opportunity to start building food sovereignty.”
Learn more about the LOCAL Foods Act.
Read the full text of the bill.

MIL OSI USA News –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Scottish Greens call for republic: Monarchy is increasingly ridiculous and unjustified

Source: Scottish Greens

24 Sep 2024 Scottish Independence For A Scottish Republic

We will always stand for an independent Scottish republic.

More in Scottish Independence

The UK Monarchy is an increasingly ridiculous, costly and unjustified institution, says Scottish Green co-leader Patrick Harvie, who has long called for an independent Scotland to be a republic.

Mr Harvie’s comments follow a report by Republic, an anti-monarchy campaign group, which puts the “true cost” of the Monarchy at over £500m a year.

Mr Harvie said: “The Monarchy is an increasingly ridiculous and unjustified institution. It represents a different and long gone era, and it is impossible to justify the eye watering sums that we spend on it.

“Lavishing any family with huge privilege, power and wealth as a birthright is a fundamentally undemocratic idea, and it is particularly distasteful during a cost of living crisis which is seeing scandalous levels of child poverty, and pensioners across our country forced to choose between feeding themselves and heating their home.

“We should always be able to elect or remove our rulers and heads of state at the ballot box. That is a key part of any democracy. If any of the Windsors want to represent the country then they should stand for election.

“The Scotland I want to see is an independent republic where power rests with the people rather than being treated like a family heirloom.”

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI Global: War affects girls and boys differently: what we found in our study of children in the DRC

Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Roos van der Haer, Assistant professor of International Relations at the Institute of Political Science, Leiden University

War has become a regular part of life for many children. Millions are victims and witnesses to the horrors of war. Recent estimates by researchers at the Peace Research Institute Oslo show that one in six children globally lives in a conflict zone, and Africa has the highest number of conflict-affected children.

Many children are forced to become child soldiers. In other cases, such as during the 1994 genocide in Rwanda, violence is aimed at children.

In recent years, researchers from various fields have been studying the impact on children of growing up in war zones. Psychologists, for example, have been researching how conflict affects children’s mental health and behaviour. Economists have examined, among other issues, how growing up in these environments can limit future earning capabilitites. Other scholars have investigated how war shapes the long-term (political) attitudes of these children.

Despite this growing body of research, we – a group of researchers who look into the causes and consequences of armed conflict for children – spotted two key gaps.

Read more:
Why some rebel groups force kids to fight: it depends on how they are funded

First, much of the literature treats children’s experiences as if they were the same across different contexts. Few studies have considered the distinct experiences of girls as soldiers or how these differ from boys’ experiences.

Second, while some research does explore these gender differences, it often focuses only on what happens during the conflict. It doesn’t consider how these experiences affect social relationships when the conflict ends. This is despite scholars and policymakers highlighting that girls’ experiences in war are fundamentally different from those of boys due to their different status and role in society.

To address these gaps, we conducted an exploratory study from 2018 to 2019 on the experiences of boys and girls during conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). We studied how these gendered experiences might have affected their social relationships after the war. We interviewed 315 children aged between 12 and 18, with different levels of exposure to conflict. This included 186 respondents who had been involved in armed groups.

Our recently published analysis revealed, as expected, that many children had witnessed or experienced various conflict-related events during their life-time. Most children reported seeing homes and property destroyed, and many had witnessed people being beaten or tortured by armed forces. Fewer children reported being sexually assaulted or raped or injured by weapons such as gunshots or stabbings, though sadly these were not rare occurrences either.

We found that boys were generally more exposed to conflict than girls. This difference is largely due to boys being more involved with armed groups and more likely to perpetrate violence.

These experiences of conflict can have lasting effects on children’s relationships with their families, friends, teachers and other important social groups. These connections are crucial for a child’s development and wellbeing.

The differences between how boys and girls are affected are important considerations in building appropriate and effective psychosocial support programmes, with tools that address gender-specific needs in conflict or post-conflict situations.

The study

We gathered information from 315 structured interviews with Congolese children. Some of these boys and girls had been actively involved with armed groups in the eastern provinces of the DRC, while others had less direct exposure to the conflict.

Conflict and human rights violations are widespread in the DRC. World Vision has called the decades-long conflict in the country “one of the worst child protection crises in the world”. Further, in a recent UN report on children and armed conflict, 3,377 verified grave violations against children in the DRC were identified. Of these, 46% involved the recruitment of children – some as young as five – by armed forces or groups.

To examine how the armed conflict has affected Congolese boys and girls, we collected data between 2018 and 2019 in the South Kivu province of eastern DRC. We selected our participants with the help and consent of five local child protective organisations.

Our analysis first explored what the boys and girls had experienced during conflict. Then we associated these gendered experiences with differences in social behaviour. We looked at whether there were gender differences in the children’s key relationships with family, friends (and other social groups) and their teachers.

Read more:
War devastates the lives of children: what the research tells us, and what can be done

First, we found that war disrupted the family’s ability to provide safety and security, and both children and their caregivers might suffer from the emotional and psychological toll of the conflict. Our study found that girls tended to have a stronger relationship with their family and caretakers compared to boys after conflict. This aligns with previous research suggesting boys may face more challenges in maintaining family relationships. This is particularly the case for those that were active as child soldiers.

Second, our analysis found that boys tended to have more diverse friendship networks than girls, even when comparing former boy soldiers to girl soldiers. Friendships are vital for a child’s wellbeing. Strong and diverse friendships are linked to better mental health, tolerance and understanding.

Lastly, we looked at how gender and war experiences might affect relationships between students and teachers. Armed conflict can have devastating effects on the educational attainment of children. Education, however, supports war-affected children and adolescents in several important ways. Structured school rules, regulations and activities establish a sense of normality, which is crucial to the healing process and wellbeing of children. Overall, the children interviewed had a very positive view of their schools or training programmes. They felt safe, enjoyed spending time with their classmates and viewed their teachers as helpful and caring. However, girls – especially former girl soldiers – were significantly more likely than boys to report that their teachers were sympathetic and supportive.

Why the findings matter

Our research is one of the first to highlight significant differences in how boys and girls experience war, and how these experiences shape their social relationships.

Addressing the differences in the needs of boys and girls after conflict not only improves their wellbeing, but is also likely to positively affect entire households, post-conflict regions and post-conflict countries. While our study sheds light on these differences, more research is needed to understand them in greater depth and, most importantly, to explain why they occur.

Are these differences the result of psychological trauma, behavioural changes, or specific events that happened before or during the conflict? Moreover, we know very little about the long-term effects of war exposure – do these differences fade over time, or do they persist? And how can communities play a role in helping children to overcome these challenges? Do we also observe these differences in other conflicts at other periods?

Understanding these differences is key for policymakers working to develop effective support programmes. Developing and increasing the availability of gender-responsive approaches can help strengthen the resilience of children after conflict. It may also work to strengthen their agency and resilience before conflict.

We would like to thank the Gerda Henkel Stiftung for their extensive support of this research.

Kathleen J. Brown does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

– ref. War affects girls and boys differently: what we found in our study of children in the DRC – https://theconversation.com/war-affects-girls-and-boys-differently-what-we-found-in-our-study-of-children-in-the-drc-238789

MIL OSI – Global Reports –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Aberdeen to host Great British Energy HQ in UK-wide clean energy drive
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

Great British Energy will be headquartered in Aberdeen, with 2 smaller sites in Edinburgh and Glasgow.
Prime Minister confirms Great British Energy will be headquartered in Aberdeen, a world-leader in engineering and infrastructure

Edinburgh and Glasgow will host 2 smaller sites, maximising skills and expertise across Scotland

the move will kickstart plans for the new publicly-owned company to drive investment in clean home-grown energy, creating jobs and supporting growth across the UK

Aberdeen has today (24 September) been named the new home of Great British Energy, drawing on the city’s world-leading engineering expertise to kickstart a UK-wide clean energy revolution.

As the location of the new headquarters, Aberdeen will be at the heart of the company’s plans to scale up clean homegrown power to boost energy independence, create skilled jobs across the UK and to support economic growth.

Two additional sites will open in Edinburgh and Glasgow, once Great British Energy is up and running, to benefit from local skills and expertise. The company will be initially located in government buildings across the cities, while permanent bases are established.

This marks the next step to kickstart Great British Energy, as part of its mission to become a clean energy superpower. An interim Chief Executive will soon to be appointed to take the lead on launching the new company and building its Aberdeen base – along with the start-up Chair Juergen Maier, former CEO of Siemens UK.

Within the first weeks of the new government, Energy Secretary Ed Miliband took immediate action to introduce the Great British Energy Bill to Parliament and – along with the Prime Minister – confirm a new partnership with The Crown Estate, to help accelerate new offshore wind farms. The company – owned by the British people, for the British people – will attract private investment in the UK’s clean homegrown power, backed by £8.3 billion in government funding over this Parliament.

The move forms part of the government’s plans to support clean energy in the North Sea, ensuring Aberdeen continues to thrive as Scotland’s clean energy capital. The government recently announced the biggest ever investment in offshore wind and continues to progress technologies like carbon capture and storage and hydrogen – as well as ensuring that oil and gas is used for decades to come as part of a fair and balanced transition away from fossil fuels.

Notes to editors

On 25 July, Department for Energy Security and Net Zero published the founding statement for Great British Energy.

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Published 24 September 2024
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: GB Energy giving more questions than answers for Aberdeen

Source: Scottish Greens

24 Sep 2024 Climate

GB Energy must work in the public interest, not simply as a way to line private pockets

More in Climate

The UK government’s plans for GB Energy are leaving more questions than answers says Scottish Green MSP Maggie Chapman, this follows confirmation from Sir Keir Starmer that it will be based in Aberdeen.

Aberdeen has a unique role to play in driving our transition to a greener future, added Ms Chapman, who represents North East Scotland, including Aberdeen.

Ms Chapman has called for greater collaboration between the Labour Government and the MSPs who represent the region, to ensure GB Energy lives up to the challenge of our climate crisis.

Ms Chapman said: “If done properly, GB Energy could present an important opportunity for Aberdeen – with new jobs, investment, a focus away from the legacy of oil and gas.

“We want to be optimistic, but a lot of us are concerned that this will become an investor’s playpen, rather than a genuine driver of new renewables projects.

“So far the UK government’s statement raises many more questions than answers.

“It is time for Labour to be clear about its ambitions for this project, and what it will look like. GB Energy should be an organisation that resources the energy sector’s move towards genuine renewable energy, not an excuse for more warm words on oil, gas and nuclear.

“An energy transition without justice for workers and affected communities is the last thing we need. Aberdeen has a unique role to play in driving forward our just transition. It can be the engine that drives the climate action and green economy that are so vital.

“The UK Government must ensure that GB Energy works for public interests in the region and the sector, and is not simply a way to line private pockets.

“I would welcome greater collaboration between the Labour Government and the MSPs who represent the region, to ensure GB Energy lives up to the challenge of our climate crisis.”

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI United Nations: Readout of the Secretary-General’s meeting with H.E. Mr. Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, President of the Federative Republic of Brazil

Source: United Nations secretary general

The Secretary-General met with H.E. Mr. Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, President of the Federative Republic of Brazil. They talked about Brazil’s presidency of the G20 and COP 30, as well as the implementation of the Pact for the Future. The Secretary-General and the President agreed on the pressing need to reform the global governance institutions, including the international financial architecture. They further discussed global and regional issues, including the situation in Haiti, Ukraine, and the Middle East.

MIL OSI United Nations News –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI Russia: High-Level Retreat in New Hampshire as part of Bretton Woods at 80 Initiative

MIL OSI Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: IMF – News in English

September 24, 2024

WASHINGTON – As part of the previously announced Bretton Woods at 80 Initiative, the IMF and the World Bank Group are hosting a high-level retreat at Bretton Woods, New Hampshire, on September 26‒27, 2024.

This two-day Chatham House Rules event will bring together a small and diverse group of global thinkers—including individuals prominent in the fields of history, international relations, political science, finance, and business—at the location of the 1944 United Nations Monetary and Financial Conference (the “Bretton Woods Conference”).

The three External Advisors to the Bretton Woods at 80 Initiative, Patrick Achi, Sri Mulyani Indrawati, and Mark Malloch-Brown, will help guide the discussions.

Senior management and staff from both the Bank and the Fund will be in attendance, including President Ajay Banga and Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva.

The purpose of the retreat is to facilitate a discussion on the shape of the world economy 20‒30 years from now, how multilateralism may evolve, and how the Bank and Fund can best continue to support stability and progress on a livable planet.

This retreat is part of an ongoing series of consultations with IMF and World Bank stakeholders that will continue to be led by the External Advisors at events and engagements over the coming months.

Contacts:

For the IMF: Pavis Devahasadin,media@imf.org

For the World Bank: David M. Theis,dteis@worldbankgroup.org

IMF Communications Department

MEDIA RELATIONS

PRESS OFFICER: Pavis Devahasadin

Phone: 1 202 623-7100 Email: MEDIA@IMF.org

@IMFSpokesperson

https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2024/09/23/pr24341-high-level-retreat-in-new-hampshire-as-part-of-bretton-woods-at-80- initiative

MIL OSI

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

MIL OSI Russia News –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI Canada: Government of Canada successfully completes the removal of three problem vessels from the Marine Environment in Bridgewater, Nova Scotia

Source: Government of Canada News

The Government of Canada is committed to addressing problem vessels that impact our marine environment and communities on our coasts. Recently, the Canadian Coast Guard (CCG) operation to remove and safely dismantle three vessels in Bridgewater, Nova Scotia, was successfully completed.

September 24, 2024

Dartmouth, Nova Scotia – The Government of Canada is committed to addressing problem vessels that impact our marine environment and communities on our coasts. Recently, the Canadian Coast Guard (CCG) operation to remove and safely dismantle three vessels in Bridgewater, Nova Scotia, was successfully completed.

The Hannah Atlantic, Cape Rouge, and the Rupert Brand VI had been in the area for a number of years and due to the deteriorating state of the vessels, the Canadian Coast Guard determined the vessels posed a risk of pollution to the marine environment and remediation efforts were needed. RJ MacIsaac Marine Recycling and Construction from Antigonish, Nova Scotia, was awarded the contract to dismantle and remove all three vessels on January 2, 2024, for $3,769,772.

Work to remove the vessels from the marine environment began in early June 2024. The Canadian Coast Guard remained onsite throughout the operation to ensure overall command of the removals. Initially, vessel removal and site cleanup was anticipated to take six months to complete, however, the completion time was accelerated with the use of additional hauling equipment and was completed in late July 2024, almost four months ahead of schedule. Full site remediation and cleanup is now complete. By the end of the operation, over 15,000 litres of contaminated water had been removed from the vessels and over 170,000 kg of steel was recycled.

Protection of the marine environment is a top priority for the Canadian Coast Guard and all reported problem vessels are taken seriously. Members of the public who see marine pollution or a hazard are encouraged to report it to the Canadian Coast Guard.

“The Canadian Coast Guard is taking steps to make sure that wrecked and abandoned vessels, like the three removed from Bridgewater, are addressed before they can pose a serious threat to the marine environment or the public. Removing these vessels is key to restoring Canada’s coastlines and keeping Canadians safe.”

Mario Pelletier, Commissioner, Canadian Coast Guard

MIL OSI Canada News –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI Canada: Minister Ferrada attends the G20 Tourism Ministers’ Meeting in Belém, Brazil

Source: Government of Canada News

As the main forum for cooperation among the world’s leading economies, the Group of 20 (G20) plays an important role in global governance, deepening cooperation between nations to address major global challenges.

September 24, 2024 – Belém, Brazil

As the main forum for cooperation among the world’s leading economies, the Group of 20 (G20) plays an important role in global governance, deepening cooperation between nations to address major global challenges. This includes a ministerial meeting that brings together tourism ministers from the G20 and other key nations.

The Honourable Soraya Martinez Ferrada, Minister of Tourism and Minister responsible for the Economic Development Agency of Canada for the Regions of Quebec, recently concluded Canada’s successful participation in the 2024 G20 Tourism Ministers’ Meeting in Belém, Brazil.

The G20 Tourism Ministers’ Meeting gives nations a venue to share best practices, foster international collaboration and use tourism to drive economic growth and cultural understanding. The fight against climate change was a major focus of this year’s meeting. Minister Ferrada shared Canada’s perspectives on climate change—from warm winters to wildfires—as an existential threat to tourism. The Minister also took part in extensive discussions on tourism sustainability and workforce challenges, like training and recruitment.

Minister Ferrada also represented Canada during several other important activities surrounding the ministerial meeting. She participated in the World Travel & Tourism Council’s public-private sector dialogue, where participants shared their priorities and concerns and identified opportunities for mutual support and greater public-private partnership. Minister Ferrada spoke on behalf of Canada at the UN Tourism sustainability forum, which explored how nations can work together to build an inclusive and sustainable global tourism industry. Finally, the Minister held bilateral meetings with key allies and partners, including the United States, Japan, Germany and Italy.

Alexander Cohen
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of Tourism and Minister responsible for the Economic Development Agency of Canada for the Regions of Quebec
alexander.cohen@ised-isde.gc.ca

Media Relations
Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada
media@ised-isde.gc.ca

For easy access to government programs for businesses, download the Canada Business app.

MIL OSI Canada News –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI USA: Arrington Introduces Legislation to Counter Unfair Foreign Trade Practices
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jodey Arrington (TX-19)

Washington, D.C. – House Budget Committee Chairman Jodey Arrington (TX-19) introduced H.R. 9724 – the Axing Nonmarket Tariff Evasion (ANTE) Act – legislation to defend the American economy from nonmarket entities using third countries to avoid U.S. trade enforcement.

“For far too long, adversaries like China have cheated the American economy and cost the U.S. millions of jobs by utilizing unfair trade practices. President Trump took decisive action to curb this, but more still needs to be done,” said Chairman Arrington. “The Axing Non-Market Tariff Evasion (ANTE) Act would proactively stop foreign, state-owned businesses from using third countries as a backdoor to evade U.S. tariffs and bolster the American economy in the process.”

“We appreciate Rep. Arrington’s leadership in introducing the Axing Non-Market Tariff Evasion Act. A strong domestic steel industry is necessary to support any of our country’s goals. China’s unfair trade practices are the number one threat to robust domestic production,” said Philip K. Bell, President, Steel Manufacturers Association. “Due to China’s Belt and Road Initiative, our members constantly play Whac-A-Mole attempting to combat dumping and trade cheating, as China moves production around the globe whenever the U.S. implements any action to level the playing field. This legislation provides our government tools to be more proactive in their fight against unfair trade practices. We look forward to working with you and your colleagues to support American workers and ensure our government can rapidly react to constantly evolving threats to our economy.”

“Chinese companies have become experts at tariff evasion, finding ways around U.S. tariffs in place to support manufacturing in America,” said James Warren, Forging Industry Association. “The Axing Nonmarket Tariff Evasion (ANTE) Act will proactively target tariff evasion as China uses third-party countries to undermine American manufacturing. It is time our manufacturers stop playing defense, this bill will proactively give policymakers the tools they need to strengthen the manufacturing industrial base.”

Background:
- Highly subsidized state-owned enterprises like SAIC Motor controlled by non-market economies like China are setting up operations in other countries not subject to trade enforcement tariffs to export to the United States and avoid duties. This tariff evasion threatens American businesses, which risk losing market demand to entities that don’t play by the rules.
- While the U.S. has trade enforcement tools that address unfair nonmarket practices, there’s no trade law that addresses tariff evasion in a proactive and targeted manner. The Axing Non-Market Tariff Evasion (ANTE) Act would fill this void by amending Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974 to require the U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) to investigate whether a planned investment from a nonmarket economy, subject to Section 301 tariffs, into a third country, not subject to Section 301 tariffs, is being established to export to the U.S. and evade these tariffs.
- If USITC determines that tariff evasion is occurring, it must notify the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) or Congress, which have the ability to apply the Section 301 tariff on the nonmarket economy to the specific third country investment, even before the investment goes into operation.
- The ANTE Act would allow the U.S. to proactively prevent nonmarket entities from using investments in third countries as a backdoor to avoid U.S. trade enforcement and defend American businesses against bad actors that seek to evade U.S. law.
Broad Support:
- In addition to the Steel Manufacturers Association and the Forging Industry Association, the following groups have endorsed Rep. Arrington’s ANTE Act:
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MIL OSI USA News –
September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Latta, ClearPath Op-Ed on the Importance of Investing in Domestic Nuclear Energy Production

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Bob Latta (R-Bowling Green Ohio)

Congressman Bob Latta (R-OH5) and ClearPath CEO Jeremy Harrell penned a joint op-ed in the Washington Examiner outlining the importance of investing in domestic nuclear energy production.

Read an excerpt of the op-ed below, or click here to read the piece in its entirety.

“The United States is at the crossroads of its energy future. Homeowners and business owners are struggling to keep up with increased energy bills, and power companies are trying to provide enough baseload energy to heat, cool, and light homes while fueling the rise of artificial intelligence and data centers.

“There’s no question that to meet Americans’ growing energy demands, the U.S. must invest in reliable, affordable, and clean energy. The solution lies with an all-of-the-above strategy that includes all forms of energy generation, including fossil fuels, renewables, and, most importantly, nuclear power…”

“…As leaders working toward energy solutions, we strongly believe that America must lead the world in nuclear energy development. We refuse to sit back and cede energy leadership to other nations, which is why we will continue working together to invest in nuclear energy to establish U.S. energy dominance.”

MIL OSI USA News –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI USA: Biden-Harris Administration Announces First CHIPS Commercial Fabrication Facilities Award with Polar Semiconductor, Establishing Independent American Foundry

Source: US Government research organizations

Media Contact: Madeline Broas, madeline.broas [at] chips.gov (madeline[dot]broas[at]chips[dot]gov).

Today, as part of the Biden-Harris Administration’s Investing in America agenda, the U.S. Department of Commerce announced its first award under the CHIPS Incentives Program’s Funding Opportunity for Commercial Fabrication Facilities of up to $123 million in direct funding to Polar Semiconductor (Polar). The award follows the previously signed preliminary memorandum of terms and the completion of the Department’s due diligence. The award will expand and modernize the company’s manufacturing facility in Bloomington, Minnesota. The Department will distribute the funds based on Polar’s completion of project milestones.

“Semiconductors – those tiny chips smaller than the tip of your finger – power everything from smartphones to cars to satellites and weapons systems. I signed the CHIPS and Science Act to revitalize American leadership in semiconductors, strengthen our supply chains, protect our national security, and advance American competitiveness. And over the last three and a half years, we have done just that, catalyzing over $400 billion in private sector investments in semiconductors and electronics that are creating over 115,000 construction and manufacturing jobs. This year alone, the United States is on pace to see more investment in electronics manufacturing construction than it did over the last 24 years combined,” said President Joe Biden. “Today’s announcement that the Department of Commerce has finalized the first commercial CHIPS Incentives award with Polar Semiconductor marks the next phase of the implementation of the CHIPS and Science Act, and demonstrates how we continue to deliver on the Investing in America agenda. Polar’s new facility will also be completed under a Project Labor Agreement to support its construction workforce, creating good-quality union jobs in Bloomington, Minnesota. Today’s announcement is just one of the many ways our Investing in America agenda is reshoring U.S. manufacturing, investing in workers and communities across the country, and advancing America’s leadership in the technologies of tomorrow.”

“Today represents an important milestone in the implementation of the historic CHIPS and Science Act as we announce the first award agreement with Polar,” said U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo. “The Biden-Harris Administration’s investment in Polar will create a new U.S.-owned foundry for sensor and power semiconductors and modernize and expand Polar’s facilities in Minnesota, strengthening our national and economic security, bolstering our supply chains, and creating quality jobs.”

The Biden-Harris Administration’s investment will support Polar’s efforts to almost double its U.S. production capacity of sensor and power chips within two years. This award catalyzes a total investment of more than $525 million from private, state, and federal sources to transform Polar from a majority foreign-owned in-house manufacturer to a majority U.S.-owned commercial foundry. Through Polar’s semiconductor manufacturing operations, the Administration’s investment is expected to create over 160 manufacturing and construction jobs in Minnesota.

For more information about Polar’s award, please visit the CHIPS for America website.

“The Biden-Harris Administration’s investment into Polar marks the first award, of many to come, into communities across our nation to regain our lead in semiconductor manufacturing,” said Lael Brainard, National Economic Advisor.

“Polar and its employees are excited to embark on our transformative project. We welcome new customers and partnerships, and as a domestic U.S.-owned sensor and advanced power semiconductor merchant foundry, we will support technology and design innovation, protect intellectual property, facilitate onshoring and technology transfers, and provide efficient low- to high-volume manufacturing with world-class quality,” said Surya Iyer, President and Chief Operating Officer of Polar Semiconductor. “Through our collaborative and sustained workforce development efforts, we expect to support customers with highly skilled employees today and into the future. We are pleased to close on the significant equity investment from Niobrara Capital and Prysm Capital, and we extend our sincere thanks to our partners at the U.S. Department of Commerce, the State of Minnesota, and the City of Bloomington for their support of the future of American semiconductor manufacturing.”

The purpose of the Award Phase is to finalize comprehensive due diligence and negotiate the final award documents. As stated in the CHIPS Notice of Funding Opportunity for Commercial Fabrication Facilities, the Department will distribute direct funding based on the completion of project components in connection with both the capital expenditures for the project and production and commercial milestones. The program will track the performance of each CHIPS Incentives Award through financial and programmatic reports, in accordance with the award terms and conditions, to establish a compliance program to monitor that commitments are being upheld.

About CHIPS for America
CHIPS for America has allocated more than $35 billion in proposed funding across 16 states and proposed to invest billions more in research and innovation, which is expected to create over 115,000 jobs. Since the beginning of the Biden-Harris Administration, semiconductor and electronics companies have announced over $400 billion in private investments, catalyzed in large part by public investment. CHIPS for America is part of President Biden and Vice President Harris’s economic plan to invest in America, stimulate private sector investment, create good-paying jobs, make more in the United States, and revitalize communities left behind. CHIPS for America includes the CHIPS Program Office, responsible for manufacturing incentives, and the CHIPS Research and Development Office, responsible for R&D programs, that both sit within the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) at the Department of Commerce. Visit https://www.chips.gov to learn more.

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MIL OSI USA News –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI USA: Joint Press Statement for the 25th Korea-U.S. Integrated Defense Dialogue

Source: United States Department of Defense

The Republic of Korea (ROK) Ministry of National Defense (MND) and the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) held the 25th Korea-U.S. Integrated Defense Dialogue (KIDD) from September23-24, 2024, in Seoul.

Deputy Minister (DEPMIN) for National Defense Policy, Mr. Cho Chang Lae, led the ROK delegation. Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense (DASD) for East Asia, Mr. Anka Lee, led the U.S. delegation. Key senior ROK and U.S. defense and foreign affairs officials also participated in the dialogue.

Both sides had an in-depth discussion focusing on the three pillars of the “Defense Vision of the U.S.-ROK Alliance”: enhancing extended deterrence efforts against the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK), modernizing Alliance capabilities based on science and technology cooperation, and strengthening solidarity and regional security cooperation with like-minded partners. They acknowledged the importance of faithfully implementing the Defense Vision to strengthen the U.S.-ROK Alliance, and reviewed implementation of specific tasks. In addition, the two sides noted progress to align U.S.-ROK bilateral defense mechanisms under the Security Consultative Meeting (SCM) to effectively and efficiently support strengthening the Alliance through the implementation of the Defense Vision, and pledged to continue assessing them.

The two sides reaffirmed their common goal of the complete denuclearization of the DPRK, and concurred on the importance of the Alliance’s close coordination to maintain a vigilant combined defense posture. Both sides exchanged views on ever-changing DPRK threats, as well as its advancing nuclear and missile capabilities, which are destabilizing the Korean Peninsula and the region. Both sides strongly condemned DPRK provocations and threats that undermine regional peace and stability, including its diversification of nuclear delivery systems and continuing space launch attempts.

Both sides commended the Alliance’s efforts to enhance extended deterrence in an integrated manner since President Biden and President Yoon’s April 2023 Washington Declaration and committed to continue strengthening extended deterrence cooperation through the work of the Nuclear Consultative Group.

The United States reaffirmed its enduring and ironclad commitment to the defense of the ROK, utilizing the full range of U.S. defense capabilities – including nuclear, conventional, missile defense, and advanced non-nuclear capabilities – and reiterated that any nuclear attack by the DPRK against the United States or its Allies and partners is unacceptable and will result in the end of the Kim regime. Both sides affirmed that the full capabilities of the two countries would contribute to the Alliance’s combined defense posture.

Both sides reviewed the progress from a joint study of the Alliance’s comprehensive counter-missile strategy and also discussed future enhancements in information sharing through the U.S. Shared Early Warning System (SEWS) to respond to DPRK’s advancing missile threats. The two sides pledged to continue developing response capabilities and posture through the Counter-Missile Working Group (CMWG).

The two sides expressed grave concern over the DPRK’s continuing sending of filth balloons. They also recognized the need for closely coordinated responses to intensifying DPRK’s gray zone provocations, such as cyber and electromagnetic attacks, and threats in the vicinity of the Northwest Islands and Northern Limit Line (NLL). Both sides noted that the NLL has been an effective means of separating military forces and preventing military tension over the past 70 years, and the ROK side urged the DPRK to accept the practical value of, and abide by, the NLL.

The two sides shared assessments of the recent ULCHI FREEDOM SHIELD 24 (UFS 24) exercise, which included realistic threats such as DPRK’s advancing nuclear and missile threats, GPS jamming and cyber attacks. They agreed that UFS further enhanced the Alliance’s crisis management and strengthened deterrence and defense capabilities. In addition, they assessed that combined field training exercises (FTX), which were more extensive than the past year in land, maritime and air domains, enhanced interoperability and combined capabilities to execute Alliance operations as well as demonstrated a robust ability to defend the ROK. Based on these achievements, both sides agreed to strengthen combined exercises and trainings in line with rapidly changing security environment of the Korean Peninsula.

The two delegations also discussed the danger of DPRK-Russian military cooperation following the signing of the “Treaty on Comprehensive Strategic Partnership” between Russia and the DPRK. In particular, they expressed grave concern over illegal arms trade and transfer of high-technology between Russia and the DPRK that violate United Nations Security Council resolutions (UNSCRs), and pledged to respond by working closely together with the international community. The two sides reaffirmed the importance of full implementation of UNSCRs by the entire international community, including China and Russia, and concurred that such endeavors back the complete denuclearization of the DPRK.

The ROK and United States agreed to continue strengthening efforts made to date for further modernizing Alliance capabilities and evolving based on science and technology cooperation. The two delegations applauded the progress establishing a Defense Science and Technology Executive Committee under the SCM, and pledged to expedite efforts for practical cooperation under this consultative body within the year. In addition, based on such cooperation, they shared the understanding that areas of cooperation need to be expanded further, including artificial intelligence, autonomous technology, crewed-uncrewed teaming, and next-generation communications. In that vein, both sides consulted on a ROK proposal to hold a joint ROK-U.S. Defense Science and Technology Conference from the year 2025.

The two sides also pledged to continue expanding cooperative measures to enhance the defense industrial base and interoperability of both the United States and the ROK. The delegations agreed that cooperative efforts for a Regional Sustainment Framework being developed by the Defense Department would strengthen posture and capabilities of the Alliance. As such, they highly appreciated a ROK’s participation in the Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) pilot project, in an area of Air Force’s aviation maintenance, and pledged to continue discussions for expanding cooperation into the Army aviation and naval vessels. The two sides also welcomed the recent U.S. Navy contract with ROK shipyards for the conduct of MRO for U.S. vessels. In addition, both sides recognized the need to provide reciprocal market access to deepen defense cooperation and enhance supply chain resiliency, and pledged to advance progress on a Reciprocal Defense Procurement Agreement (RDP-A).

Both sides commended the work of the Space Cooperation Working Group (SCWG), including ROK’s participation in the Joint Commercial Operations (JCO) led by the U.S. Space Force. They emphasized that such cooperation contributes to enhancing interoperability and information sharing for space domain awareness of the Alliance and strengthens joint response capabilities against increasing space threats. Furthermore, the two sides welcomed the work of the Cyber Cooperation Working Group (CCWG), including the Cyber Alliance and Cyber Flag exercise.

The two sides reviewed the progress on the Conditions-based OPCON Transition Plan (COTP) agreed upon by the ROK and the United States through Conditions-based OPCON Transition Working Group (COTWG). They exchanged views on this year’s bilateral evaluation on the capabilities and systems required for OPCON transition, pledged to pursue OPCON transition in a systematic and stable manner, and reaffirmed the two nations’ commitment to strengthening combined defense posture of the Alliance.

DEPMIN Cho and DASD Lee also reviewed the regional and global security environments and pledged to deepen cooperation with like-minded countries to achieve shared security goals. They acknowledged that the 2nd ROK-UNC Member States Defense Ministerial Meeting, which was held in Seoul in early September reaffirmed the commitment and resolve of the UNC Member States to peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula. They reviewed the work of the Regional Cooperation Working Group (RCWG) aimed at enhancing peace and stability in the region, and pledged to strengthen cooperative efforts based on the respective Indo-Pacific strategy of both countries. In that vein, they closely discussed measures for regional cooperation to pursue expanded cooperation with the ASEAN members and Pacific Islands Countries, and agreed to report the outcomes of the discussions at the 56th SCM.

In addition, both sides concurred that ROK-U.S.-Japan security cooperation should continue to be strengthened to achieve shared security goals on the Korean Peninsula and in the Indo-Pacific region. They pledged to intensify cooperation to respond to regional security landscape based on the Trilateral Security Cooperation Framework (TSCF), including high-level policy consultations, information sharing, and trilateral multi-domain exercises. To this end, the two sides resolved to continue efforts for the implementation of cooperative tasks agreed through the Defense Trilateral Talks (DTT) held in early September.

DEPMIN Cho and DASD Lee agreed that the 25th KIDD reaffirmed a robust solidarity of the ROK-U.S. Alliance and provided guidance to strengthen the Alliance’s cooperation in accordance with the Defense Vision of the U.S.-ROK Alliance. Based on these outcomes of the Alliance’s cooperation, the two sides pledged to continue efforts to achieve meaningful progress at the 56th SCM, to be hosted in late 2024.

On the occasion of this meeting, both sides visited a General Outpost along the central front, reviewing increasing DPRK military activities in the vicinity of the border region and assessing our response. They expressed appreciation to service members of the ROK and the U.S. for maintaining an overwhelming combined defense posture to respond to any DPRK provocations.

MIL OSI USA News –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI USA: Owners of Florida Labor-Staffing Companies Make Initial Appearance on Tax and Immigration Fraud and Money Laundering Charges

Source: US Justice – Antitrust Division

Headline: Owners of Florida Labor-Staffing Companies Make Initial Appearance on Tax and Immigration Fraud and Money Laundering Charges

Two Ukrainian nationals made their initial appearance yesterday on a superseding indictment returned by a federal grand jury in Miami charging them with crimes related to labor-staffing companies they operated in Florida. The two men were extradited from the Kingdom of Thailand to the United States last week.

MIL OSI USA News –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI USA: Review of CUNY’s Antisemitism & Antidiscrimination Policies
Source: US State of New York

“My top priority as Governor has always been to ensure the safety and security of every New Yorker, and right now, too many students at our colleges and universities do not feel safe. Let me be clear: we will not tolerate threats of antisemitism or hate of any kind. Every New Yorker must be free to live, learn and worship without fear of harassment or violence.

“Even before the horrific terror attacks of October 7th, New York has been actively fighting hate — with acts such as releasing America’s first-ever statewide plan to combat antisemitism and funding security for institutions at risk of hate-fueled attacks. I changed the bail laws to crack down on hate crimes and deployed additional State personnel to the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force. As the tragic anniversary of the October 7th attacks approaches, we will be announcing additional resources to ensure the safety and well-being of all New Yorkers.

“I want to thank Judge Jonathan Lippman for his work to produce a comprehensive report on antisemitism and antidiscrimination policies at CUNY. Hate on campus has surged nationwide over the past year, and we needed a candid review of how best to protect our students. After reviewing Judge Lippman’s report, I have directed CUNY to implement his 13 recommendations, which I believe will make a significant impact in preventing and addressing future incidents. My expectation is that CUNY will enact these recommendations, and they have already taken initial steps to address the Judge’s findings. I encourage every college and university in New York State to review Judge Lippman’s recommendations as a guide to help ensure that their campus community is a welcoming and safe place for people of every faith and background.”

Governor Hochul tapped Judge Lippman to conduct a comprehensive review of CUNY’s antisemitism and antidiscrimination policies last October following a surge in hate and bias incidents in the wake of the Hamas terror attacks. Judge Lippman delivered a 13-point action plan for CUNY to implement immediately to address antisemitism and other forms of discrimination or hate on campuses and protect Jewish students and faculty:
- Centralize resources for dealing with discrimination by creating a University-wide center to address antisemitism and other forms of hate and instituting an internal antisemitism and hate monitor.
- Overhaul CUNY’s university-wide discrimination and retaliation reporting portal to better support individuals lodging complaints of antisemitism and discrimination.
- Help victims of antisemitism and discrimination navigate the investigative process and identify available resources by establishing a centralized Victim’s Advocate program.
- Coordinate with law enforcement and security experts to establish standardized safety protocols to help protect everyone and ensure all individuals feel safe on CUNY campuses.
- Provide guidance and training for campus chief diversity officers and others who are responsible for investigating antisemitism and discrimination allegations and implement a system of investigation oversight.
- Use the principles of the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) definition of antisemitism as a guide to help determine what may constitute antisemitism, in line with Governor Hochul’s 2022 proclamation identifying the IHRA definition as a valuable tool.
- Ensure all those at CUNY, including campus leadership and chief diversity officers, use the law as a guide when handling incidents of antisemitism on campus, regardless of personal views of what constitutes antisemitism.
- Update current policies and procedures to ensure they provide uniform and clear guidance to address modern incidents of antisemitism and other forms of hate, including the use of social media; train students, faculty and staff on these policies; and consistently review and update these policies in the future to ensure they do not become out of date.
- Consistently hold students and faculty accountable for conduct violating CUNY’s policies and procedures through instituting new clear protocols.
- Draft and adopt a Comprehensive Policy on Freedom of Speech and Expressive Conduct, including clear rules for time, place and manner of expressive conduct on campuses, consistent with the First Amendment.
- Encourage leadership to lead by example and speak out forcefully against antisemitism and any form of hate, even when it may not directly violate the law or CUNY’s policies.
- Increase efforts to train and recruit faculty and staff who consistently encourage and promote inclusivity, constructive dialogue and tolerance.
- Promote dialogue among people holding different viewpoints and create additional joint programming.
Judge Lippman’s full review and recommendations are available here.

MIL OSI USA News –
September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI Translation: Minister Ferrada participates in the G20 Tourism Ministers meeting in Belém, Brazil

MIL OSI Translation. Canadian French to English –

Source: Government of Canada – in French 1

Press release

As the primary forum for cooperation among major economies, the Group of Twenty (G20) plays an important role in global governance and strengthening multilateral cooperation to address major global challenges.

September 24, 2024 – Belém (Brazil)

As the leading forum for cooperation among major economies, the Group of Twenty (G20) plays an important role in global governance and strengthening multilateral cooperation to address major global challenges. The G20 Summit includes a ministerial meeting attended by tourism ministers from member countries and other key nations.

The Minister of Tourism and Minister responsible for the Economic Development Agency of Canada for the Regions of Quebec, the Honourable Soraya Martinez Ferrada, recently participated in the successful 2024 G20 Tourism Ministers Meeting in Belém, Brazil.

Tourism ministers came together to share best practices, foster international collaboration, and drive economic growth and mutual cultural understanding through tourism. This year, addressing climate change was a major topic of discussion. Minister Ferrada shared Canada’s perspective on climate change, from mild winters to wildfires, which pose an existential threat to tourism. She also engaged in in-depth discussions on tourism sustainability and workforce challenges in the sector, including training and recruitment.

Minister Ferrada represented Canada at several other events on the margins of the ministerial meeting. She notably took part in the World Travel and Tourism Council’s Public-Private Dialogue, where participants discussed priorities and concerns, identified opportunities for mutual support and strengthened public-private partnerships. Minister Ferrada spoke on behalf of Canada at the UN Tourism Sustainability Forum, which discussed how countries can work together to advance inclusive and sustainable tourism globally. Finally, the Minister held bilateral meetings with key partners and allies, including representatives from the United States, Japan, Germany and Italy.

Quotes

“Tourism brings people and nations together. This year, at the G20 Tourism Ministers’ Meeting, my counterparts and I reiterated our commitment to making tourism a sustainable and future-proof industry. To achieve this, we must develop tourism in an informed manner while combating climate change. Canada will continue to demonstrate leadership on the world stage and work with all other countries to make tourism a force for good.” – The Honourable Soraya Martinez Ferrada, Minister of Tourism and Minister responsible for the Economic Development Agency of Canada for the Regions of Quebec

Related links

Contact persons

Alexander CohenDirector of CommunicationsOffice of the Minister of Tourism and Minister responsible for the Economic Development Agency of Canada for the Regions of Quebecalexander.cohen@ised-isde.gc.ca

Media RelationsInnovation, Science and Economic Development Canadamedia@ised-isde.gc.ca

Stay Connected

Follow the Canada Business account on social mediaX (Twitter): @entreprisescan | Facebook: Canada Business | Instagram: @entreprisescdn

Follow the Ministry on LinkedIn: Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada.

For easy access to government programs for businesses, download theCanada Business App.

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

MIL Translation OSI

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI: TMT Acquisition Corp Announces Adjournment of Extraordinary General Meeting of Shareholders

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

New York, New York, Sept. 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — TMT Acquisition Corp (Nasdaq: TMTCU, TMTC, and TMTCR) (the “Company”) announced today that the Company’s Extraordinary General Meeting of Shareholders (the “Extraordinary General Meeting”) was convened on September 24, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. Eastern Time and adjourned in order to solicit additional votes on the matters listed in the notice of extraordinary general meeting and the proxy statement.

The Extraordinary General Meeting has been adjourned to September 27, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. Eastern Time and will continue to be held virtually.

Only shareholders of record, as of the record date, August 30, 2024 (the “Record Date”), are entitled to vote at the Extraordinary General Meeting, either in person or by proxy. Proxies previously submitted in respect of the Extraordinary General Meeting will be voted at the adjourned Extraordinary General Meeting unless properly revoked, and shareholders who have previously submitted a proxy or otherwise voted need not take any further action.

About TMT Acquisition Corp

TMT Acquisition Corp is a blank check company, also commonly referred to as a special purpose acquisition company (SPAC) formed for the purpose of effecting a merger, share exchange, asset acquisition, share purchase, reorganization, or similar business combination with one or more businesses or entities. TMT Acquisition Corp is led by Dajiang Guo, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, and Jichuan Yang, Chief Financial Officer, who are growth-oriented executives with a long track record of value creation across industries.

Contact:

Dajiang Guo
Email: dguo@tmtacquisitioncorp.com
Tel.: 347-627-0058

The MIL Network –

September 29, 2024

MIL-OSI: Form 8.3 – AXA INVESTMENT MANAGERS: Segro plc

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

FORM 8.3

PUBLIC OPENING POSITION DISCLOSURE/DEALING DISCLOSURE BY
A PERSON WITH INTERESTS IN RELEVANT SECURITIES REPRESENTING 1% OR MORE
Rule 8.3 of the Takeover Code (the “Code”)

1. KEY INFORMATION

(a) Full name of discloser:	AXA Investment Managers S.A.
(b) Owner or controller of interests and short positions disclosed, if different from 1(a): The naming of nominee or vehicle companies is insufficient. For a trust, the trustee(s), settlor and beneficiaries must be named.
(c) Name of offeror/offeree in relation to whose relevant securities this form relates: Use a separate form for each offeror/offeree	SEGRO plc
(d) If an exempt fund manager connected with an offeror/offeree, state this and specify identity of offeror/offeree:
(e) Date position held/dealing undertaken: For an opening position disclosure, state the latest practicable date prior to the disclosure	23 September 2024
(f) In addition to the company in 1(c) above, is the discloser making disclosures in respect of any other party to the offer? If it is a cash offer or possible cash offer, state “N/A”	YES Tritax EuroBox plc

2. POSITIONS OF THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE

(a) Interests and short positions in the relevant securities of the offeror or offeree to which the disclosure relates following the dealing (if any)

Class of relevant security:	10p ordinary
	Interests		Short positions
	Number	%	Number	%
(1) Relevant securities owned and/or controlled:	13,625,655	1.01
(2) Cash-settled derivatives:
(3) Stock-settled derivatives (including options) and agreements to purchase/sell:
TOTAL: AXA Investment Managers does not have discretion regarding voting decisions in respect of 5,859,925 shares that are included in this total.	13,625,655	1.01

All interests and all short positions should be disclosed.

Details of any open stock-settled derivative positions (including traded options), or agreements to purchase or sell relevant securities, should be given on a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions).

(b) Rights to subscribe for new securities (including directors’ and other employee options)

Class of relevant security in relation to which subscription right exists:
Details, including nature of the rights concerned and relevant percentages:

3. DEALINGS (IF ANY) BY THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE

The currency of all prices and other monetary amounts should be stated.

(a) Purchases and sales

Class of relevant security	Purchase/sale	Number of securities	Price per unit
10p ordinary	Purchase	240	GBP 8.83

(b) Cash-settled derivative transactions

Class of relevant security	Product description e.g. CFD	Nature of dealing e.g. opening/closing a long/short position, increasing/reducing a long/short position	Number of reference securities	Price per unit

(c) Stock-settled derivative transactions (including options)

(i) Writing, selling, purchasing or varying

Class of relevant security	Product description e.g. call option	Writing, purchasing, selling, varying etc.	Number of securities to which option relates	Exercise price per unit	Type e.g. American, European etc.	Expiry date	Option money paid/ received per unit

(ii) Exercise

Class of relevant security	Product description e.g. call option	Exercising/ exercised against	Number of securities	Exercise price per unit

(d) Other dealings (including subscribing for new securities)

Class of relevant security	Nature of dealing e.g. subscription, conversion	Details	Price per unit (if applicable)

4. OTHER INFORMATION

(a) Indemnity and other dealing arrangements

None

(b) Agreements, arrangements or understandings relating to options or derivatives

None

(c) Attachments

Is a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions) attached?

Date of disclosure:	24 September 2024
Contact name:	Sabrina AID
*Telephone number:**	+33 1 44 45 58 79

Public disclosures under Rule 8 of the Code must be made to a Regulatory Information Service.

The Panel’s Market Surveillance Unit is available for consultation in relation to the Code’s disclosure requirements on +44 (0)20 7638 0129.

*If the discloser is a natural person, a telephone number does not need to be included, provided contact information has been provided to the Panel’s Market Surveillance Unit.

The Code can be viewed on the Panel’s website at www.thetakeoverpanel.org.uk.

The MIL Network –

September 29, 2024

MIL-OSI Security: Hollidaysburg Couple Sentenced for Conspiracy to Defraud the United States and Health Care Fraud Conspiracy

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

HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that John H. Johnson and his wife, Paula Z. Johnson, both age 62, of Hollidaysburg, Pennsylvania, were sentenced on September 17, 2024, by U.S. District Court Judge Christopher C. Conner, for committing fraud. John Johnson received a sentence of 97 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release. Paula Johnson received a sentence of three years of probation, including six months of home detention with location monitoring, and was ordered to immediately pay $249,301.36 in restitution, fines, and assessments.

According to United States Attorney Gerard M. Karam, in 2016, John H. Johnson, a physician with specialized training in anesthesiology, entered into an agreement with other individuals to defraud health insurance programs by billing them illegally for expensive tests known as “urine drug tests.” One of the individuals that Johnson conspired with was Rodney L. Yentzer, who pleaded guilty for his role in related offenses in March 2022 and is awaiting sentencing. Johnson and Yentzer carried out this agreement through a couple different groups of pain management practices located throughout central Pennsylvania, known as Lighthouse Medical and Pain Medicine of York (“PMY”). Yentzer, who had no medical training, acquired PMY in 2014 at the suggestion of John H. Johnson, with whom Yentzer was business partners. PMY absorbed Lighthouse Medical in 2017, and PMY closed permanently in November 2019 after law enforcement agents executed search warrants at its various locations.

“Ensuring the integrity of health care programs in this age of rising costs is paramount to our mission,” said Maureen R. Dixon, Special Agent in Charge for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of the Inspector General. “We will continue to work with federal, state, and local partners to hold providers accountable for misconduct that exploits the programs.”

“Healthcare fraud is not a victimless crime. In this case, the defendants caused taxpayers’ hard-earned dollars to be diverted from patients who needed care, and instead served their own interests,” said Wayne A. Jacobs, Special in Agent in Charge of FBI Philadelphia. “Today’s sentencing demonstrates the FBI and our partners’ commitment to rooting out fraud and pursuing those who conspire to exploit our healthcare systems for financial gain.”

In 2016, Lighthouse Medical, under the direction of John H. Johnson, operated a drug testing laboratory on its own premises. This laboratory had the equipment and capabilities to perform urine drug testing (“UDT”) on site. UDT, when used legitimately, is a method for physicians to test their patients for the presence and specific amounts of various substances. A very high percentage of the patients of Lighthouse Medical (and, subsequently, PMY) were prescribed with opioid medications at each monthly visit. UDT could be used, for instance, to test whether such patients were taking their medications as prescribed or taking illegal recreational drugs in addition to their prescribed medications. Urine drug tests were typically reimbursed at a high rate by Medicare and private insurance programs.

In March 2016, Johnson and Yentzer agreed with the new owners of a rural, 25-bed “Critical Access Hospital” located near the border of Florida and Alabama to “sell” Lighthouse Medical’s UDT laboratory services to the hospital; in exchange, the hospital purchased the exclusive right to bill for payment and collect payment from patients and insurance programs. The hospital agreed to pay Lighthouse Medical a kickback of $900 per test.

As a Critical Access Hospital under federal law, the hospital received very favorable payment from Medicare and private insurance programs, including, for example, for UDT. Thus, even while paying a $900 kickback per test to Lighthouse Medical, the hospital was still able to collect and keep a significant amount of money over and above that amount. The owners of the hospital also used other laboratories like Lighthouse Medical in a similar pass-through manner. As a result, the hospital was able to bill for a number of laboratory tests that far exceeded what would normally be associated with a small facility of its kind, and Lighthouse Medical was paid far more than what it would have typically received for UDT from Medicare and other insurers. For instance, on July 12, 2016, the hospital paid Lighthouse Medical $816,300 for 907 urine drug tests. Approximately one week later, the hospital paid Lighthouse Medical $628,200 for nearly 700 tests.

In total, the owners of the hospital billed others, including private insurers, approximately $1.4 billion for various laboratory testing services that were not medically necessary. The majority of this amount was due to UDT. Lighthouse Medical received $2,341,775 in kickback payments over a four-month time period, with 85% of this amount going to John H. Johnson and the remaining amount going to Rodney L. Yentzer.

Under the terms of his plea agreement, John H. Johnson will also be required to pay over $2.3 million in restitution to defrauded health insurance companies. The restitution order against John H. Johnson is expected to be finalized within the next sixty days.

In addition to pleading guilty to conspiracy to commit health care fraud, John H. Johnson pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to defraud the United States. His wife, Paula Z. Johnson, who is also a physician from Hollidaysburg, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty to the same offense. Together, John H. Johnson and Paula Z. Johnson conspired to evade payments to the U.S. Government that John H. Johnson was required to make for a prior criminal conviction.

In July 2015, John H. Johnson was indicted for various tax offenses in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania. In September 2016, John H. Johnson was charged in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida with conspiracy to commit mail fraud and wire fraud in connection with a separate health care fraud scheme. In early 2017, John H. Johnson knew that he was likely going to prison for these offenses, so he approached Rodney L. Yentzer and got Yentzer to agree to place Paula Z. Johnson, who had not practiced medicine in years, on the PMY payroll.

In June 2017, John H. Johnson was sentenced to an 84-month term of imprisonment for the various offenses with which he had been charged. He was also ordered to repay to the U.S. Government over $3 million restitution payments for fraudulent health care billing and unpaid taxes.

Even following his imprisonment, Johnson and Yentzer remained in close contact through phone and in-person visits, with Johnson providing direction to Yentzer. During conversations, Johnson and Yentzer sometimes used coded language to describe sensitive subjects, including the term “toy” to refer to money and the term “toy box” to refer to bank accounts.

John H. Johnson knew that PMY continued to be highly profitable, in large part owing to its UDT billing. Specifically, PMY billed every patient for two urine drug tests at each visit: one test a presumptive “screen” for the presence of certain substances and the second a definitive test for specific levels of 22 different substances. This testing protocol had been put in place by John H. Johnson when he ran Lighthouse Medical, and he instructed Yentzer to do the same at PMY. Yentzer followed this direction.

From mid-2017 until late 2019, PMY submitted bills just to Medicare for around $10 million in UDT, with well over $4 million being paid out. John H. Johnson, Paula Z. Johnson, and Rodney L. Yentzer devised various other ways to funnel money to the Johnsons so that they could benefit from this wealth without the money being captured for John H. Johnson’s restitution payments. Among other things, Yentzer purchased a car for the Johnsons’ son and leased an Audi Q5 for Paula Z. Johnson, at her request. Yentzer also made $28,000 in contributions to their children’s 529 college savings accounts, paid over $40,000 in legal bills for “asset and estate planning,” made over $40,000 in payments toward personal loans, and covered other large bills, all with the knowledge of both John H. Johnson and Paula Z. Johnson. On a number of occasions, Paula Z. Johnson requested these payments directly from Yentzer or his assistant.

PMY shut down abruptly in November 2019 after search warrants were executed because it was no longer able to retain medical providers to see patients. In January 2020, in a recorded prison call, Yentzer stated to John H. Johnson, that “if there’s anything left, I will make sure Paula gets, uh, a piece.” He added that “whatever’s left” after satisfying certain creditors he would “divvy up.” Yentzer made this statement despite the fact that Paula Z. Johnson had been formally terminated by PMY in November 2019.

The case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Drug Enforcement Administration Diversion Control Division, and Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ravi Romel Sharma prosecuted the case.

# # #

MIL Security OSI –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI Africa: Secretary-General’s remarks at the Opening of the General Debate of the Seventy-ninth Session of the General Assembly [as delivered]

Source: United Nations – English

r. President of the General Assembly,

Excellencies,

Ladies and gentlemen,

Our world is in a whirlwind.

We are in an era of epic transformation – facing challenges unlike any we have ever seen – challenges that demand global solutions.

Yet geo-political divisions keep deepening. The planet keeps heating.

Wars rage with no clue how they will end.

And nuclear posturing and new weapons cast a dark shadow.

We are edging towards the unimaginable – a powder keg that risks engulfing the world.

Meanwhile, 2024 is the year that half of humanity goes to the polls – and all of humanity will be affected.

I stand before you in this whirlwind convinced of two overriding truths.

First, the state of our world is unsustainable.

We can’t go on like this.

And second, the challenges we face are solvable.

But that requires us to make sure the mechanisms of international problem-solving actually solve problems.

The Summit of the Future was a first step, but we have a long way to go.

Getting there requires confronting three major drivers of unsustainability.

A world of impunity – where violations and abuses threaten the very foundation of international law and the UN Charter.

A world of inequality – where injustices and grievances threaten to undermine countries or even push them over the edge.

And a world of uncertainty – where unmanaged global risks threaten our future in unknowable ways.

These worlds of impunity, inequality and uncertainty are connected and colliding.

Excellencies,

The level of impunity in the world is politically indefensible and morally intolerable.

Today, a growing number of governments and others feel entitled to a “get out of jail free” card.

They can trample international law.

They can violate the United Nations Charter.

They can turn a blind eye to international human rights conventions or the decisions of international courts.

They can thumb their nose at international humanitarian law.

They can invade another country, lay waste to whole societies, or utterly disregard the welfare of their own people.

And nothing will happen.

We see this age of impunity everywhere — in the Middle East, in the heart of Europe, in the Horn of Africa, and beyond.

The war in Ukraine is spreading with no signs of letting up.

Civilians are paying the price – in rising death tolls and shattered lives and communities.

It is time for a just peace based on the UN Charter, on international law and on UN resolutions.

Meanwhile, Gaza is a non-stop nightmare that threatens to take the entire region with it.

Look no further than Lebanon.

We should all be alarmed by the escalation.

Lebanon is at the brink.

The people of Lebanon – the people of Israel – and the people of the world — cannot afford Lebanon to become another Gaza.

Let’s be clear.

Nothing can justify the abhorrent acts of terror committed by Hamas on October 7th, or the taking of hostages – both of which I have repeatedly condemned.

And nothing can justify the collective punishment of the Palestinian people.

The speed and scale of the killing and destruction in Gaza are unlike anything in my years as Secretary-General.

More than 200 of our own staff have been killed, many with their families.

And yet the women and men of the United Nations continue to deliver humanitarian aid.

I know you join me in paying a special tribute to UNRWA and to all humanitarians in Gaza.

The international community must mobilize for an immediate ceasefire, the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages, and the beginning of an irreversible process towards a two-State solution.

For those who go on undermining that goal with more settlements, more landgrabs, more incitement — I ask:

What is the alternative?

How could the world accept a one-state future in which a large a large number of Palestinians would be included without any freedom, rights or dignity?

In Sudan, a brutal power struggle has unleashed horrific violence — including widespread rape and sexual assaults.

A humanitarian catastrophe is unfolding as famine spreads. Yet outside powers continue to interfere with no unified approach to finding peace.

In the Sahel, the dramatic and rapid expansion of the terrorist threat requires a joint approach rooted in solidarity – but regional and international cooperation have broken down.

From Myanmar to the Democratic Republic of the Congo to Haiti to Yemen and beyond – we continue to see appalling levels of violence and human suffering in the face of a chronic failure to find solutions.

Meanwhile our peacekeeping missions are too often operating in areas where simply there is no peace to keep.

Instability in many places around the world is a by-product of instability in power relations and geo-political divides.

For all its perils, the Cold War had rules.

There were hot lines, red lines and guard rails.

It can feel as though we don’t have that today.

Nor do we have a unipolar world.

We are moving to a multipolar world, but we are not there yet.

We are in a purgatory of polarity.

And in this purgatory, more and more countries are filling the spaces of geopolitical divides, doing whatever they want with no accountability.

That is why it is more important than ever to reaffirm the Charter, to respect international law, to support and implement decisions of international courts, and to reinforce human rights in the world.

Anywhere and everywhere.

Excellences, Mesdames et Messieurs,

L’augmentation des inégalités est un deuxième facteur de l’insoutenabilité et une tache sur notre conscience collective.

L’inégalité n’est pas une question technique ou bureaucratique.

Au fond, l’inégalité est une question de pouvoir, aux racines historiques.

Les conflits, les bouleversements climatiques et la crise du coût de la vie étendent ces racines historiques plus profondément encore.

Dans le même temps, le monde peine encore à se relever de la flambée des inégalités engendrée par la pandémie.

Si l’on regarde les 75 pays les plus pauvres du monde, un tiers d’entre eux se trouve aujourd’hui dans une situation pire qu’il y a cinq ans.

Au cours de la même période, les cinq hommes les plus riches de la planète ont plus que doublé leurs fortunes.

Et un pour cent des habitants de la planète détient 43 % de l’ensemble des avoirs financiers mondiaux.

Au niveau national, certains gouvernements décuplent les inégalités en accordant des cadeaux fiscaux massifs aux entreprises et aux ultra-riches — au détriment des investissements dans la santé, l’éducation et la protection sociale.

Et personne n’est plus lésé que les femmes et les filles du monde entier.

Excellences,

La discrimination et les abus généralisés fondés sur le genre constituent l’inégalité la plus répandue dans toutes les sociétés.

Chaque jour, il semble que nous soyons confrontés à de nouveaux cas révoltants de féminicides, de violences fondées sur le genre et de viols collectifs – en temps de paix comme en tant qu’arme de guerre.

Dans certains pays, les lois sont utilisées pour menacer la santé et les droits reproductifs.

Et en Afghanistan, les lois sont utilisées pour entériner l’oppression systématique des femmes et des filles.

Et je suis désolé de constater que, malgré des années de beaux discours, l’inégalité de genre se manifesteet je vous demande pardon de le dire, elle se manifeste aujourd’hui encore, pleinement dans cette enceinte.

Moins de 10 pour cent des intervenants au Débat général de cette semaine sont des femmes.

C’est inacceptable, surtout quand on sait que l’égalité entre les femmes et les hommes contribue à la paix, au développement durable, à l’action climatique et bien plus encore.

C’est précisément pour cela nous avons pris des mesures spécifiques pour atteindre la parité hommes-femmes parmi les hauts responsables de l’Organisation des Nations Unies,objectif qui est déjà complété.

C’est faisable.

J’exhorte les institutions politiques et économiques du monde dominées par les hommes à le faire aussi.

Excellences,

Les inégalités mondiales se reflètent et se renforcent jusque dans nos propres organisations internationales.

Le Conseil de sécurité des Nations Unies a été conçu par les vainqueurs de la Seconde Guerre mondiale.

À l’époque, la majeure partie du continent africain était encore sous domination coloniale.

À ce jour, l’Afrique n’a toujours aucun siège permanent au sein de la principale instance de paix du monde.

Un changement s’impose.

Il en va de même pour l’architecture financière mondiale, mise en place il y a 80 ans.

Je félicite les dirigeants de la Banque mondiale et du Fonds monétaire international pour les mesures importantes qu’ils ont entreprises.

Mais comme le souligne le Pacte pour l’avenir, la lutte contre les inégalités exige une accélération de la réforme de l’architecture financière internationale.

Au cours des huit dernières décennies, l’économie mondiale s’est développée et transformée.

Les institutions de Bretton Woods n’ont pas suivi le rythme.

Elles ne sont plus en mesure de fournir un filet de sécurité mondial, ni d’offrir aux pays en développement le niveau de soutien dont ils ont tant besoin.

Dans les pays les plus pauvres du monde, le coût des intérêts de la dette dépasse, en moyenne, le coût des investissements dans l’éducation, la santé et les infrastructures publiques réunis.

Et à l’échelle du monde, plus de 80 % des cibles des Objectifs de développement durable ne sont pas en bonne voie.
Excelencias,

Volver al camino correcto requiere un aumento de financiamiento para la Agenda 2030 y el Acuerdo de París.

Esto implica que los países del G20 lideren un Estímulo para los Objetivos de Desarrollo Sostenible de 500.000 millones de dólares al año.

Implica reformas para aumentar sustancialmente la capacidad de préstamo de los Bancos Multilaterales de Desarrollo – y permitirles ampliar masivamente la financiación asequible a largo plazo para el clima y el desarrollo.

Implica ampliar la financiación de contingencia mediante el reciclaje de los Derechos Especiales de Giro.

E implica promover una reestructuración de la deuda a largo plazo.

Excelencias,

No me hago ilusiones sobre las barreras a la reforma del sistema multilateral.

Los que tienen poder político y económico, o y los que creen tenerlo, son siempre reacios al cambio.

Pero el status quo ya está agotando su poder.

Sin reformas, la fragmentación es inevitable, y las instituciones globales perderán legitimidad, credibilidad y eficacia.

Excellencies,

The third driver of our unsustainable world is uncertainty.

The ground is shifting under our feet.

Anxiety levels are off the charts.

And young people, in particular, are counting on us and seeking solutions.

Uncertainty is compounded by two existential threats – the climate crisis and the rapid advance of technology — in particular, Artificial Intelligence.

Excellencies,

We are in a climate meltdown.

Extreme temperatures, raging fires, droughts, and epic floods are not natural disasters.

They are human disasters — increasingly fueled by fossil fuels.

No country is spared. But the poorest and most vulnerable are hardest hit.

Climate hazards are blowing a hole through the budgets of many African countries, costing up to five per cent of GDP – every year.

And this is just the start.

We are on course to careen past the global limit of a 1.5 degree temperature rise.

But as the problem gets worse, solutions are getting better.

Renewable prices are plummeting, roll-out is accelerating, and lives are being transformed by affordable, accessible clean energy.

Renewables don’t just generate power. They generate jobs, wealth, energy security and a path out of poverty for millions.

But developing countries cannot be plundered in that journey.

Our Panel on Critical Minerals has recommended fair and sustainable ways to meet global demand for these resources, which are essential to the renewables revolution.

Excellencies,

A future without fossil fuels is certain. A fair and fast transition is not.

That is in your hands.

By next year, every country must produce an ambitious new national climate action plan – or Nationally Determined Contributions.

These must bring national energy strategies, sustainable development priorities, and climate ambitions together.

They must align with the 1.5 degree limit, cover the whole economy, and contribute to every one of the COP28 energy transition targets.

An International Energy Agency report released today breaks this down.

By 2035, on average, advanced economies must slash energy emissions 80 per cent, and emerging markets 65 per cent.

The G20 is responsible for 80 per cent of total emissions.

They must lead the charge – keeping with the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities in the light of different national circumstances.

But this must be a joint effort — pooling resources, scientific capacities and proven and affordable technologies for all to be able to reach those targets.

I’m honoured to be working closely with President Lula of Brazil – who is both G20 Chair and COP30 host – to secure maximum ambition, acceleration and cooperation. We just met for that purpose.

Finance is essential.

COP29 is around the corner.

It must deliver a significant new finance goal.

We also need a Loss and Damage Fund that meets the scale of the challenge – and developed countries meeting their adaptation finance promises.

And we must finally flip the script on a crazy situation:

We continue to reward polluters to wreck our planet.

The fossil fuel industry continues to pocket massive profits and subsidies, while everyday people bear the costs of climate catastrophe – from rising insurance premiums to lost livelihoods.

I call on G20 countries to shift money from fossil fuel subsidies and investments to a just energy transition;

To put an effective price on carbon;

And to implement new and innovative sources of financing – including solidarity levies on fossil fuel extraction – through legally-binding, transparent mechanisms.

All by next year and this taking into account that those who shoulder the blame must foot the bill.

Polluters must pay.

Excellencies,

The rapid rise of new technologies poses another unpredictable existential risk.

Artificial Intelligence will change virtually everything we know — from work, education and communication, to culture and politics.

We know AI is rapidly advancing, but where is it taking us:

To more freedom – or more conflict?

To a more sustainable world – or greater inequality?

To being better informed – or easier to manipulate?

A handful of companies and even individuals have already amassed enormous power over the development of AI – with little accountability or oversight for the moment.

Without a global approach to its management, artificial intelligence could lead to artificial divisions across the board – a Great Fracture with two internets, two markets, two economies – with every country forced to pick a side, and enormous consequences for all.

The United Nations is the universal platform for dialogue and consensus.

It is uniquely placed to promote cooperation on AI – based on the values of the Charter and international law.

The global debate happens here, or it does not happen.

I welcome important first steps.

Two resolutions in the General Assembly, the Global Digital Compact, and the recommendations of the High-Level Body on AI can lay the foundations for inclusive governance of AI.

Let’s move forward together to make AI a force for good.

Excellencies,

Nothing lasts forever.

But a feature of human life is that it appears otherwise.

The current order always feels fixed.

Until it is not.

Across human history, we see empires rising and falling; old certainties crumbling; tectonic shifts in global affairs.

Today our course is unsustainable.

It is in all our interests to manage the epic transformations underway; to choose the future we want and to guide our world towards it.

Many have said that the differences and divisions today are just too great.

That it is impossible for us to come together for the common good.

You proved that is not true.

The Summit of the Future showed that with a spirit of dialogue and compromise, we can join forces to steer our world to a more sustainable path.

It is not the end.

It is a start of a journey, a compass in the whirlwind.

Let’s keep going.

Let’s move our world towards less impunity and more accountability …. less inequality and more justice … less uncertainty and more opportunity.

The people of the world are looking to us – and succeeding generations will look back on us.

Let them find us on the side of the United Nations Charter … on the side of our shared values and principles … and on the right side of history.

I thank you.

MIL OSI Africa –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI: Albion Technology & General VCT PLC: Half-yearly Financial Report
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

Albion Technology & General VCT PLC
LEI Number : 213800TKJUY376H3KN16
24 September 2024

Albion Technology & General VCT PLC (the “Company”)

Half-yearly Financial Report for the six months to 30 June 2024

Results announcement
The Company’s Directors are pleased to attach the Company’s Half-yearly Financial Report for the six months to 30 June 2024. The highlights include:
- Total return of 4.99 pence per share (6.9% on opening Net asset value) (30 June 2023: 4.74 pence per share)
- Net asset value of 75.09 pence per share (31 December 2023: 71.99 pence per share)
- £143.8 million fund size (31 December 2023: £127.3 million)
- Dividend paid of 1.80 pence per share in the period (30 June 2023: 1.82 pence per share)
- Sale of Egress after the period end, returning over 7 times cost.
The Board also declared a second dividend of 1.88 pence per Ordinary share to be paid on 6 December 2024 to shareholders on the register on 15 November 2024.

The Half-yearly Financial Report for the six months to 30 June 2024 is attached to this announcement. Alternatively, copies are available on the Company’s webpage on the Manager’s website at:

www.albion.capital/AATG30Jun2024

For further details about the Company please either visit the Company’s webpage on the Manager’s website:
www.albion.capital/vct-funds/AATG

or contact:

Vikash Hansrani
Operations Partner
Albion Capital Group LLP
Telephone: 020 7601 1850

Attachment
- Albion Technology & General VCT PLC Half-yearly Financial Report 30 June 2024
The MIL Network –
September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI USA: Malliotakis Recognized as a Guardian of Small Business by the National Federation of Independent Business

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis (NY-11)

(WASHINGTON, DC) – Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis was recognized by the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) and was honored as a Guardian of Small Business. This award honors lawmakers who consistently vote in favor of small businesses on key issues identified by business owners. Lawmakers who voted in support of small businesses on key issues during the 118th Congress earned the NFIB Guardian of Small Business Award. A total of 269 members of Congress were recognized as Guardians of Small Business during the 118th Congress.

“I thank the National Federation of Independent Business and NFIB President Brad Close for this award,” said Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis. “As a Member of the House Committee on Ways and Means, my priority has been to support and champion our small businesses by cutting bureaucratic red tape, lowering taxes, and reducing regulations. We must continue working to create an economic environment where small businesses can invest, expand and thrive, as they are job creators and the backbone of our economy.”

“The NFIB Guardian of Small Business Award is presented to Members of Congress with a demonstrated record of supporting America’s small and independent business owners,” said NFIB President Brad Close. “This Congress, small businesses faced tough economic headwinds, especially from inflation, burdensome regulations, and threats of tax hikes at all levels of the government. We are proud to recognize the lawmakers from the 118th Congress, including Representative Nicole Malliotakis, who stood up for Main Street by taking pro-small business votes that would reduce taxes, eliminate burdensome government mandates, lower health insurance costs, and fuel the Main Street economy.”

READ MORE HERE.

MIL OSI USA News –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI USA: Senate Passes Bipartisan Resolution Designating Telehealth Awareness Week

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Maryland Ben Cardin
WASHINGTON – The U.S. Senate passed a bipartisan resolution cosponsored by U.S. Senators Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i), and Roger Wicker (R-Miss.) designating September 15-21 as “Telehealth Awareness Week.” The resolution recognizes that telehealth has helped millions of Americans across the country access quality health care, and has become a critical component of health care delivery.
“We fought to expand telehealth access during the pandemic and the results demonstrated how critical a tool it is for countless Americans, especially for mental health services,” said Senator Cardin. “Earlier this Congress, I held a hearing in the Senate Finance Health Care Subcommittee where experts detailed the value of telehealth services being covered by Medicare. The experts agreed with the goals of this legislation and reiterated the importance of providing telehealth permanency to continue treating those who would otherwise struggle to get the care they need.”
“Telehealth helps people access quality health care when and where they need it, and our resolution highlights the broad, bipartisan support for raising awareness of and expanding access to telehealth,” said Senator Schatz, co-chair of the Senate Telehealth Working Group.
“Telehealth is a cost-effective way for people in rural and underserved areas to access health care. Increasing the services available to patients remains one of my top priorities,” Senator Wicker said.
The resolution affirms the bipartisan support in Congress for telehealth and encourages expanded access to telehealth services for all people, including members of rural and underserved communities. It notes that 25 percent of Medicare beneficiaries used telehealth services at least once in 2023, and that nearly 90 percent were satisfied with their experience. It concludes that “Telehealth Awareness Week” unites the efforts of patients, caregivers, health care providers, policymakers, and other stakeholders to advance the role of telehealth in health care.
The resolution is cosponsored by U.S. Senators John Thune (R-S.D.), Mark Warner (D-Va.), and Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.).
Schatz has led efforts to expand access to telehealth, including reintroducing the CONNECT for Health Act, the most comprehensive bipartisan telehealth legislation in Congress. Since its first iteration in 2016, several provisions from the bill have been signed into law.
The full text of the resolution is available here.

MIL OSI USA News –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI Russia: “Wall clock “Nega”” in the cultural center “Nega”

MIL OSI Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

For its anniversary, the cultural center “Nega” invites you to a master class on making wall clocks, which will be conducted by an experienced teacher.

During the lesson, children will learn how to cut and glue parts, as well as decorate the clock. As a result, each child will create their own unique composition. The children will learn how to work with different materials, and will be able to develop their imagination, fantasy, and fine motor skills.

The ability to navigate in time has a positive effect on the mental development of children.

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://vvv.mos.ru/poster/event/318912257/

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

MIL OSI Russia News –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI Russia: “Bird feeder” in the cultural center “Mitino”

MIL OSI Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

The Mitino Cultural Center invites you to a master class on assembling and painting a bird feeder.

This activity develops imaginative thinking, fine motor skills, creativity, accuracy and diligence. A do-it-yourself bird feeder is a great way to support birds in winter, when it is much more difficult for them to find food in an urban or natural environment than in summer.

This craft has four open sides, which allows several birds to eat at the same time. The feeder is assembled without glue. The parts are well polished, without splinters and nicks. You can pour grain, seeds and any other bird food into the craft.

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://vvv.mos.ru/poster/event/318908257/

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

MIL OSI Russia News –

September 29, 2024

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