DAYTON, Ohio – The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Ohio and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) announced today that the United States filed a civil forfeiture complaint against assets related to an investigation into a potential $126 million illegal staffing and money laundering operation.
In July 2024, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) special agents, in collaboration with IRS Criminal Investigations and other law enforcement agencies, executed federal search warrants at Fuyao Glass America (“FGA”) in Moraine, Ohio, and 27 other locations in the Dayton area.
The civil complaint alleges that multiple suspects created roughly 40 entities (the “target entities”) that facilitate the harboring, transportation and employment of illegal aliens at various factories. The suspects used these target entities to augment the workforces of several factories with individuals who illegally entered the United States, who are unlawfully present in the United States and/or who are working without required employment authorizations. One of these factories is FGA in Moraine.
It is alleged that many of the workers were illegally smuggled into the United States, primarily through Mexico, and encouraged to travel to the Dayton area to be employed by one of the target entities and serve as a workforce at the various factories. Most of the workers are of Chinese or Hispanic nationality. Workers allegedly lived at “family style hotels” (boarding houses) owned by the target entities and were driven to and from work in transportation provided by the target entities.
“We will continue to investigate allegations of unfair labor practices,” said ICE HSI Detroit acting Special Agent in Charge Jared Murphey. “Collaboration across multiple law enforcement agencies helps to ensure accountability for both employers and the workforce.”
The 74-page complaint details that the target entities allegedly engaged in money laundering to conceal the multi-million-dollar income generated by the workers. Within days of receiving direct payments from FGA, the suspects would extensively wire funds between their various LLCs. In total, FGA has paid more than $126 million to LLCs controlled by the suspects. The money was allegedly used by the suspects for private financial gain and to purchase real estate, vehicles and luxury goods.
In the civil complaint filed on April 2, the United States alleges that the following property is subject to forfeiture: seven bank accounts, 12 properties in the Dayton area, two properties outside of Ohio, 15 vehicles and luxury goods, including a Cartier watch.
The related criminal investigation remains ongoing.
Kelly A. Norris, Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio; Jared Murphey, Acting Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Detroit; and Karen Wingerd, Special Agent in Charge, Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Criminal Investigations; announced the filing. The FBI, U.S. Border Patrol, U.S. Customs and Border Protection Office of Field Operations, ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations, Air Force Office of Special Investigations, Ohio State Highway Patrol and Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office have assisted in the criminal investigation. Assistant United States Attorneys Adam C. Tieger and Deborah D. Grimes are representing the United States in the civil forfeiture action.
BOSTON – A Boston man was sentenced in federal court in Boston for illegally selling a dozen machinegun conversion devices.
Elijah Navarro, 26, was sentenced on April 10th by U.S. District Court Judge Denise J. Casper to one year and one day in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release. . In December 2023, Navarro pleaded guilty to one count of engaging in the business as a manufacturer or dealer in firearms and two counts of the transfer or possession of a machinegun. Navarro was arrested and charged along with co-defendant Michael Wilkerson in February 2023.
In January 2023, Navarro agreed to sell 12 machinegun conversion devices to an individual in exchange for $1,700. Following a series of communications, Navarro met the individual twice at a pre-arranged location. On Jan. 19, 2023, Navarro sold the first two machinegun conversion devices for $400 and later, on Jan. 25, 2023, Navarro sold the remaining 10 devices for an additional $1,300 out of Wilkerson’s residence.
During a search of Navarro’s residence in February 2023, numerous rounds of ammunition were seized. Simultaneously, during a search Wilkerson’s residence, two 3-D printers, 3-D printing material, machinegun conversion devices, a ballistic vest as well as firearms, ammunition and magazines were seized.
Neither Navarro nor Wilkerson possess licenses to import, manufacture, deal or possess firearms.
In April 2024, Wilkerson was sentenced to 20 months in prison, followed by two years of supervised release.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; James M. Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Boston Field Division; and Boston Police Commissioner Michael A. Cox made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney John T. Dawley of the Organized Crime & Gang Unit prosecuted the case.
DJs who release illegal remixes improve their chances of getting hired for live gigs, but only when their actions are seen as selfless.(Shutterstock)
In most industries, breaking the law can end a career. But in the electronic dance music (EDM) scene, certain forms of lawbreaking can have the opposite effect.
Our recent study found that DJs who release illegal remixes — also called bootlegs — can improve their chances of getting hired for live gigs, but only when their actions are seen as serving the broader community rather than as a self-serving tactic.
Most EDM artists support and respect copyright law and know that sharing a remix online without the permission of the copyright owner is illegal. They also recognize the importance of respecting others’ work, as illustrated by the public apology issued by Dutch DJ Hardwell in a recent feud with Swedish House Mafia over a trio of bootlegs.
Yet in practice, bootlegs are not necessarily condemned, and in some cases, can even be supported by the community.
Not all bootlegs are the same
We studied the careers of nearly 39,000 DJs across 97 countries from 2007 to 2016, tracking their music production activity and live performances. Given the legal and reputational risks involved, illegal remixing is relatively uncommon. Our data suggest that fewer than 10 per cent of EDM DJs post bootlegs online.
Still, we found that those who do post bootlegs tend to get more gigs than those who produce legal remixes or original tracks.
Bootlegging refers to the unauthorized remixing, editing or distribution of a track without the official permission of the original artist or copyright holder. (Shutterstock)
To better understand this surprising result, we complemented our secondary data analyses with an expert survey, an online experiment with almost 900 EDM fans and interviews with 34 industry professionals including DJs, promoters and label managers.
Interestingly, we found that bootlegs weren’t generally seen as more creative, higher quality or attention-grabbing than legal remixes or original tracks. So why then did some DJs benefit from them?
The answer lies in how the broader EDM community perceived the bootlegger’s intentions.
Valuing disinterestedness
We found that artists who were seen as disinterested — breaking the law to give back to the community — tended to be rewarded, despite violating copyright law.
When bootlegs were perceived as homages to a peer, a gift to fans or a way to revive a beloved song, it triggered community support for the artist. Specifically, other community members would step in and provide that artist with more opportunities to perform and open for peers.
Sharing a bootleg online increased the number of monthly opening acts a DJ played by 4.4 per cent — twice the impact of releasing official remixes or original music.
The EDM community reacted positively to the remix, which helped propel Zeikenov’s career forward. He has since become an established artist and has opened for high-profile artists, including Saint Jhn himself.
It’s clear the EDM community places a lot of value on disinterestedness. But the inverse is also true: when bootlegs were believed to be self-serving attempts to ride someone else’s success, the support quickly waned.
In fact, bootleggers perceived as self-serving experienced a decrease of up to 10 per cent in the number of monthly bookings.
Norms take precedence over formal regulations
Many occupational communities rely on informal norms. Usually, the degree to which formal regulations align with an industry’s core values determines whether a community promotes, discourages or only superficially supports compliance with the law.
However, in more ambiguous situations, compliance becomes discretionary, meaning community members must interpret unlawful actions themselves and decide whether to enforce or overlook them.
While formal rules exist in EDM — like copyright law — they’re not always strictly enforced. When this happens, a community’s norms fill in the gap in a process known as “occupational self-regulation.” In the EDM scene, these informal norms include unspoken rules about remixing, collaboration and credit.
As our study shows, this ambiguity has resulted in a system where EDM artists who break copyright laws can still gain informal support, provided their actions are seen as disinterested and beneficial to the broader community.
Breaking the rules for the right reasons
It’s important to note that EDM artists do not encourage lawbreaking per se, and that the DJs we interviewed described bootlegging as a practice born out of necessity — something artists resort to when they lack the resources to clear tracks.
Community support in EDM hinges less on strict legal compliance and more on how an artist’s intent is perceived. For emerging DJs, this creates a delicate balancing act: breaking the law carries real risks, but under certain circumstances, it can paradoxically open a path to a legitimate career.
EDM isn’t the only field where this kind of phenomenon occurs. It’s likely that other creative occupations that value disinterestedness will see similar dynamics play out. This is also true in academia or tech. For example, patent infringement in bioscience research may be treated differently, at least in part, because of perceived differences in scientists’ intentions.
Ultimately, how these transgressions are judged comes down to their perceived motives and how the broader community makes sense of them. Sometimes, breaking the law isn’t just tolerated, but can even be a stepping stone to professional success.
The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
Transparency is a top priority for the Congressional Budget Office, and the agency continues to bolster its efforts to be transparent. Those efforts are intended to promote a thorough understanding of CBO’s work, help people gauge how estimates might change if policies or circumstances differed, and enhance the credibility of the agency’s analyses and processes.
In 2025, the agency will undertake a variety of activities aimed at fostering transparency, such as the following:
Sharing more information to help people understand the federal budget process and CBO’s role in it; and
Explaining the methods it uses for its analyses in several topic areas, including national security, health care, taxation, and economic projections.
Those efforts will build on CBO’s activities in 2024, which included testifying before Congressional committees and answering Members’ questions, releasing data, evaluating the accuracy of the agency’s estimates, comparing current and previous estimates, estimating the effects of policy alternatives, characterizing the uncertainty surrounding estimates, creating data visualizations, and conducting outreach.
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WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs today announced it has established commissions to find candidates to lead the Veterans Health and Veterans Benefits Administrations. VA Deputy Secretary Paul R. Lawrence, Ph.D., will chair both commissions.
The commissions will help VA find candidates for its Under Secretary for Health and Under Secretary for Benefits positions and are a prerequisite to the president’s nomination of a candidate, subject to Senate confirmation, for each role.
The search comes at a crucial time for the department, as it’s implementing a number of reforms to improve VA services for Veterans, families, caregivers and survivors. Successful accomplishments and milestones reached during the second Trump Administration so far include:
About the Under Secretary for Health Position
The USH is responsible for the country’s largest health care system and works to provide Veterans with the health care choices they have earned while maintaining and improving the department’s direct health care capabilities. The USH manages the operation of VA’s more than 1,300 health care facilities, including hospitals, community-based outpatient clinics, nursing homes, domiciliaries and Vet Centers. The USH also administers the training and education of VA’s health care professionals, develops and supports the department’s contingency health care plans in the event of a national emergency and leads research efforts focused on improving Veterans’ health.
Learn more about the position.
About the Under Secretary for Benefits Position
The USB directs the timely delivery of VA benefits and services for eligible Veterans, family members, caregivers and survivors. The USB is responsible for ensuring accurate disability claims decisions, managing educational benefits for veterans and dependents, managing the home loan guaranty program, overseeing vocational rehabilitation and counseling for disabled Veterans, bolstering the transition support available from military to civilian life and accelerating the economic empowerment and independence of servicemembers and Veterans.
Learn more about the position.
Reporters and media outlets with questions or comments should contact the Office of Media Relations at vapublicaffairs@va.gov
Veterans with questions about their health care and benefits (including GI Bill). Questions, updates and documents can be submitted online.
Contact us online through Ask VA
Veterans can also use our chatbot to get information about VA benefits and services. The chatbot won’t connect you with a person, but it can show you where to go on VA.gov to find answers to some common questions.
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Federal charges have been filed againstJamison Wagner, 40, an Albuquerque resident, in connection with recent arson attacks targeting the Tesla Albuquerque Showroom and the Republican Party of New Mexico (RPNM) headquarters. Investigators linked Wagner to both incidents through surveillance footage and scene evidence.
“Let this be the final lesson to those taking part in this ongoing wave of political violence,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “We will arrest you, we will prosecute you, and we will not negotiate. Crimes have consequences.”
“Hurling firebombs is not political protest,” said Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche. “It is a dangerous felony that we will prosecute to the maximum extent. The impressive work by law enforcement in New Mexico sends a clear message to perpetrators of all of the shameful attacks on Tesla facilities and political establishments: we are coming for you, you can’t hide, and you will do serious jail time to pay for your crimes.”
“This arrest is part of the FBI’s aggressive efforts to investigate and hold accountable those who have targeted Tesla facilities in various states across the country,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “Thank you to our agents and support teams in Albuquerque who did an outstanding job executing the mission. Under Attorney General Bondi’s leadership, we will continue to locate and arrest those responsible for these acts of domestic terrorism, and the FBI will work with partners at the Department of Justice to ensure such lawbreakers face justice.”
“A key suspect is now in custody thanks to the exceptional work of ATF’s Special Agents, certified fire investigators, and forensic specialists,” said Deputy Director Robert Cekada of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. “This arrest marks a critical step toward justice in the firebombing that targeted a Tesla dealership and the New Mexico Republican Party Headquarters. Our teams worked around the clock—collecting, analyzing, and connecting forensic evidence across both scenes. With the support of our local partners, the FBI, and the rapid work of ATF’s forensic lab, we were able to link the crimes, identify those responsible, and take swift action to protect the public. This is what ATF does best: we follow the evidence, we find the truth, and we bring offenders to justice.”
According to court documents, in the early morning hours of Feb. 9, 2025, the Tesla Albuquerque Showroom was targeted in an arson attack. Two Tesla vehicles were involved in the fire, one of which was significantly damaged.
An intact glass container containing an improvised napalm material was found in the second vehicle. Investigators noted a hand-written capital “I” or “H” letter on the top of the green metal lid.
Graffiti was spray-painted in red and black paint on the building and six other vehicles, including “Die Elon,” “Tesla Nazi Inc,” and “Die Tesla Nazi,” along with swastika symbols.
Surveillance video captured the suspect on scene, and he was observed as a tall, light-skinned individual, possibly over 6 feet tall, wearing black clothing and a mask, and carrying a white box.
The following month, in the early morning hours of March 30, 2025, a second arson attack occurred, this time at the Republican Party New Mexico (RPNM) office. The fire significantly damaged the front door and entry area. At the scene, investigators collected shattered glass and metal lids from what appeared to be two to three separate glass containers. Two of the lids bore a handwritten capital “I” or “H,” similar in appearance to the letter found on the lid of the glass container at the Tesla scene.
Graffiti with the phrase “ICE=KKK” was found on the south wall of the building.
Investigators reviewed surveillance footage from nearby businesses and identified a white sedan parking on the north side of the RPNM office building before the fire. A single individual exited the vehicle, approached the RPNM headquarters, and a flash of light was recorded. The individual then returned to the vehicle and drove away. The vehicle was captured on nearby surveillance as it left the RPNM scene. After review of the available surveillance, law enforcement preliminarily identified the suspect vehicle as in what appeared to be a white Hyundai Accent between the years 2012 and 2015.
Investigators determined that both arsons involved the use of homemade incendiary devices utilizing glass containers and flammable liquids. The resulting investigation connected Wagner as a significant person of interest for both crime scenes. Among other links, Wagner’s physical description matches that of the suspect in the available surveillance footage and investigators determined that Wagner owns a white 2015 Hyundai Accent.
On April 12, 2025, agents from the FBI and ATF executed a search warrant at Wagner’sresidence in Albuquerque without incident. Inside, investigators uncovered substantial evidence linking him to both arson attacks including:
A white cardboard box containing eight assembled suspected incendiary devices.
Blue Styrofoam egg cartons consistent with the polystyrene material found in the improvised napalm used in the Tesla fire.
Materials for manufacturing additional incendiary devices and ignitable liquids consistent with the gasoline used at both fire scenes.
A jar with a green gingham-style lid similar to one found at the RPNM fire scene, along with several jars marked with handwritten capital letters “I” or “H,” similar to markings seen on lids recovered from both arson sites.
Black and red spray paint matching the graffiti used at both crime scenes.
A stencil bearing the phrase “ICE=KKK,” consistent with graffiti found at the RPNM fire scene.
Wagner’s white Hyundai Accent was found in his garage during the search. Investigators noted modifications consistent with efforts to avoid identification during the commission of the crimes.
“The charges today demonstrate that there is no place in our society for politically or ideologically motivated acts of violence and extremism,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Holland S. Kastrin for the District of New Mexico. “We are grateful for the tireless and exceptional work of our law enforcement partners to identify the alleged perpetrator of these unacceptable criminal acts and commit to prosecuting this case to the fullest extent of the law.”
Wagner is charged with two counts of malicious damage or destruction of property by fire or explosives and will remain in custody pending a detention hearing which has not been set. If convicted of the current charges, Wagner faces between five and 20 years in prison for each count.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the FBI Albuquerque Field Office are jointly investigating the case with assistance from the Albuquerque Police Department and the New Mexico Department of Justice.
Numerous additional agencies responded to the arson scenes or otherwise provided valuable assistance, including the Santa Ana Pueblo Police Department, the Sandoval County Fire Department, the New Mexico State Fire Marshals Office, Albuquerque Fire Rescue, the United States Postal Inspection Service, and Homeland Security Investigations.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Maria Elena Stiteler and Nicholas Mote for the District of New Mexico and Trial Attorney Patrick Cashman of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section are prosecuting the case.
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
The public are being informed that Whin Park, Inverness has now been fully reopened for public use.
Earlier today (14 April), Whin Park went through a full safety inspection by the equipment suppliers, Jupiter, and their installers, after a maintenance issue was reported over the weekend involving a loose bolt on the climbing net, which led to a rope becoming detached.
The Highland Council’s Play Inspection Team attended the site on Saturday morning (12 April) and took the unit out of use until such time as Jupiter could attend.
Jupiter advised, “We take all safety matters extremely seriously and responded with urgency – dispatching a team to site at 09:30 today to resolve the issue swiftly and professionally.”
The net climber has been reopened today. In addition, the Council has ensured the public toilets have had the opening hours extended during the current school holidays, and more benches and picnic tables are due to be installed at the park soon. We would like to use this opportunity to notify the public that some of the play equipment is strictly for under 18s use only.
The Council will increase their inspections for the foreseeable future, we have worked closely with Jupiter today and are grateful for their swift response to our concerns.
Jupiter added: “Whin Park has enjoyed a busy first 10 days since reopening. As a destination park, it has experienced significantly higher footfall than a typical local playground, and we are thrilled to see the community embracing it so enthusiastically.
“Over the weekend, a maintenance issue was reported involving a loose bolt on the climbing net, which led to a rope becoming detached. As part of our response, a comprehensive inspection of all play equipment and fixings has been carried out to ensure everything remains secure and in top condition.
“We would like to take this opportunity to reassure the public that the new playground has been installed and inspected in accordance with BS EN 1176 standards. It is fully compliant and safe for continued use. Regular maintenance and inspection are essential parts of ensuring long-term safety and performance.
“We are committed to maintaining the highest safety standards and ensuring that Whin Park continues to be a welcoming and secure space for families to enjoy.”
The Council’s Bus Operations Officer Andrew Gilbert and Council Leader Raymond Bremner pictured with the 918 bus that will start the service on Monday 21 April.
The Highland Council is pleased to announce that from Monday 21 April it’s in-house bus team will be delivering the 918 Wick to Berriedale service.
This is the first venture for the in-house bus company outside of the Inverness area since the successful introduction and launch of Highland Council Buses.
Council Leader Raymond Bremner said: “The 918 Service which operates between Wick and Berriedale via Lybster had originally been contracted to Aaron’s of Wick, but they withdrew a few months ago. Stagecoach stepped in to cover it until a sustainable solution could be put in place.
“I would like to thank Stagecoach for stepping in when they did to ensure locals and visitors still had a bus service. I am delighted that going forward Highland Council buses will be delivering this service. At the time we were expanding our bus company, we said that one of the benefits would be the ability to support more rural areas and I am glad that we have managed to realise the start of this benefit here in Caithness in only a matter of weeks. I hope that we can see further benefits not only in Caithness but in other rural areas of the Highlands in the near future.”
Chair of the Council’s Economy and Infrastructure Committee, Councillor Ken Gowans said: “Highland Council Buses are incredibly happy to be given the opportunity to run the 918-service going forward and to serve the public of Caithness. It is a first to be rolling out our services to Caithness to meet the needs of local communities. I am sure having the certainty of a permanent regular service will prove popular with residents and visitors and will bring benefits to even more people.”
The 918 service from Wick to Berridale will run Monday to Friday with stops at Thrumster, Ulbster, Lybster, Latheron, Latheronwheel, Dunbeath and Berriedale.
The vehicles covering the 918 route will be two 73 plate Mercedes Tourismo Coaches, both have 57 seats, are fully seat belted and are PSVAR compliant.
Available for hires for school groups on outdoor activity trips and for community organised events, a booking is already confirmed to take pupils from the Canisbay and Castletown Primary Cluster to the Caithness Music Festival in June.
Highland Council Buses also have another school service only bus, which runs between Lybster and Wick. This run starts on Tuesday 22nd April 2025.
Council Leader Raymond Bremner pictured inside one of the two buses that will be providing the service.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Bob Latta (R-Bowling Green Ohio)
On April 10, 2025, Congressman Bob Latta (OH-5) voted to continue the process of budget reconciliation to provide tax cuts to families and businesses, address the national debt, and secure the border, and safeguard our nation. Congressman Latta released the following statement:
“I’m pleased to have joined my colleagues in voting to move forward with budget reconciliation. Now that the budget resolution has been adopted, committees can work to prepare their respective parts of the reconciliation bill. It is important to note that the budget framework does not, will not, and cannot include any cuts to Social Security or Medicare. The House budget resolution instructs the Committee on Energy and Commerce, of which I am a member to save $880 billion across its vast jurisdiction, which includes energy, environment, telecommunications, and health care.
“In our Communications and Technology Subcommittee, I believe we will be able to raise a significant amount of money through our spectrum auctions. We have not held any in two years. We will also focus on routing out waste, fraud, and abuse that is in our jurisdiction. Further, we will look at rolling back pandemic rules that permitted persons ineligible for Medicaid to stay on the rolls and removing illegal immigrants from receiving benefits. We also want individuals to rejoin the workforce and relish in the dignity of work. I look forward to working with my colleagues and President Trump to use American taxpayer dollars effectively while making life easier, safer, and more affordable in Ohio and across the nation. The American people are counting on us, and we will deliver the results.”
NOTE: Reconciliation allows for expedited consideration of certain tax, spending, and debt limit legislation—nowhere in the resolution does it mention cuts to Social Security or Medicare, meaning such claims are misleading and misrepresent the actual intent of the process. In fact, according to the Congressional Budget Act of 1974, under the Byrd Rule, social security cannot be changed through reconciliation.
DENVER – As Congress considers devastating cuts to Medicaid that would eliminate health care coverage for hundreds of thousands of Coloradans, Governor Polis and Lt. Governor Primavera are urging Colorado’s federal delegation to protect this critical funding.
“As Colorado’s representatives in Congress, we urge you to oppose Congressionally-proposed cuts to Medicaid funding that would throw hundreds of thousands of Coloradans off their health insurance and increase costs transferred due to uncompensated care for the rest. Children, hardworking individuals, people with disabilities, seniors, and safety net providers are not political pawns or talking points. These cuts would mean losing access to lifesaving care with devastating consequences,” Gov. Polis and Lt. Gov. Primavera wrote in the letter.
“Drastic cuts to Medicaid affect the state and country’s entire care system – from the front-line health care workers who provide care to local clinics, rural hospitals, and safety net providers that serve our communities. Cuts could take health coverage away from hundreds of thousands of Coloradans and millions of Americans from seeing their doctors; they will push thousands of uninsured Coloradans into medical bankruptcy, increase uncompensated care to providers, close rural hospitals, and drive up premiums and costs for all Americans,” the state leaders continued.
If these cuts are enacted, Colorado could lose as many as 12,000 jobs, $1.3 billion in state GDP, and $82 million in state/local tax dollars in 2026. Rural and working-class parts of the state would be hit the hardest.
CD1 Medicaid members
29.32% of the district population is enrolled in Health First Colorado
Average number of Health First Colorado members enrolled per month: 211,721
CD2 Medicaid members
16.02% of the district population is enrolled in Health First Colorado
Average number of Health First Colorado members enrolled per month: 115,634
CD3 Medicaid members
31.21% of the district population is enrolled in Health First Colorado
Average number of Health First Colorado members enrolled per month: 228,019
CD4 Medicaid members
15.61% of the district population is enrolled in Health First Colorado
Average number of Health First Colorado members enrolled per month: 119,814
CD5 Medicaid members
24.23% of the district population is enrolled in Health First Colorado
Average number of Health First Colorado members enrolled per month: 178,644
CD6 Medicaid members
24.21% of the district population is enrolled in Health First Colorado
Average number of Health First Colorado members enrolled per month: 176,847
CD7 Medicaid members
17.74% of the district population is enrolled in Health First Colorado
Average number of Health First Colorado members enrolled per month: 128,990
CD8 Medicaid members
28.93% of the district population is enrolled in Health First Colorado
Average number of Health First Colorado members enrolled per month: 214,218
The Polis Administration is charting a path forward to prepare students for great careers in the state’s rapidly growing quantum technology economy
DENVER – Today, on World Quantum Day, the Polis Administration and Elevate Quantum announced the Blueprint for Advancing K–12 Quantum Information Technology, which puts forth a bold vision to prepare Colorado students for the technology careers of the future. The Blueprint outlines clear steps for lawmakers, educators, and district leaders to expand access to quantum education and provides a phased strategy to bring Quantum Information Science and Technology (QIST) concepts into classrooms, support educators, and engage students across Colorado.
“Colorado is leading the way as the epicenter of quantum technology. As our state’s quantum economy continues to grow, we’re making sure educators and school leaders have the necessary tools to bring these concepts into the classroom so that every Colorado student can get the skills to thrive in the industries of tomorrow,” said Governor Polis.
A new webpage from the Colorado Department of Education offers ready-to-use quantum K–12 lesson plans and activities designed to spark curiosity, build skills, and connect classroom learning to real-world careers. This will serve as a centralized hub where educators, students, and district leaders can explore curated quantum activities, classroom resources, professional development opportunities, and guidance on how to bring quantum into STEM instruction.
“Colorado continues to be at the forefront of preparing students not just for today’s opportunities, but for the careers of tomorrow. This blueprint reflects our commitment to ensuring every student can explore, engage, and thrive in the evolving quantum economy,” said Commissioner of Education Susana Córdova.
In 2023, following a competitive national process, Colorado earned federal recognition as a Regional Technology and Innovation Hub by the U.S. Department of Commerce for the state’s leadership in quantum science. Today, about 3,000 Colorado workers are employed in the quantum workforce and support more than 30 quantum technology companies. The QIST industry is expected to grow 18% annually, offering high-paying jobs across quantum computing, networking, sensing, and applications.
“With the incredible ways the quantum industry is impacting Colorado’s economy, it’s critical for us to build the quantum talent pipeline now. By focusing on Colorado’s youth via this blueprint and ourteacher externship programtargeting the industry, more Colorado students will be exposed and energized about lucrative careers in quantum ultimately growing the homegrown talent pipeline for one of the state’s fastest growing industries,” said Joe Barela, Executive Director of the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment.
“Colorado leads the world in quantum research, quantum companies and quantum jobs, and we are committed to ensuring that Coloradans can develop the skills to be part of and contribute to this growing field. Introducing students of all ages to the exciting potential of quantum will help continue our leadership for the years and decades to come,” said Eve Lieberman, Executive Director of the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade.
“To continue to lead in quantum, we need to expose students earlier to the concepts and competencies of quantum information science and technology (QIST). This blueprint does that and ensures that all Colorado students are familiar with QIST and its significance in the broader economy. Our community colleges and four-year universities stand ready to educate and train students—whether they’re working toward an industry certificate or a Ph.D.— and our new quantum incubator, which launched in January, is another way the state is bringing quantum physics out of the lab and into the real world,” said Dr. Angie Paccione, Executive Director of the Colorado Department of Higher Education.
“Colorado’s community colleges are proud to help lead the development of a quantum-ready workforce by building clear, direct pathways from K–12 into high-demand college programs. As a partner of Elevate Quantum—with Front Range Community College serving on its board—we’re not only preparing the next generation of technicians and innovators but also working to ensure students across the state are aware of and ready for these opportunities well before they reach college. The K–12 Quantum Blueprint is a critical step toward creating a seamless learning pipeline—from early exposure to robust career and technical education programs—that leads directly into college and career opportunities in this fast-growing field,” said Chancellor Joe Garcia of the Colorado Community College System.
“Core to Elevate Quantum’s mission to accelerate the commercialization of quantum technologies, is ensuring that we have the trained and credentialed workforce necessary to fill the new jobs that will be needed to make this mission a reality. Having a strong blueprint for K-12 quantum education will be an important catalyst for building accessible pathways into quantum careers, inspiring the next generation of innovators, and ensuring Colorado remains a national leader in the quantum economy,” said Jessi Olsen, Chief Financial and Operations Officer of Elevate Quantum.
To help meet the growing demand for quantum talent in the state and to ensure Colorado continues to lead in the quantum economy, the Polis Administration has invested $75 million in state dollars for statewide quantum workforce and infrastructure development, as well as $40 million in federal funding through the Elevate Quantum tech hub.
“Colorado’s economic future depends on our ability to nurture homegrown talent in cutting-edge fields. St. Vrain Valley Schools’ partnership with Elevate Quantum is creating an educational ecosystem where students develop quantum literacy from an early age, establishing our state as the premier destination for quantum industry growth,” said Don Haddad, Superintendent of St. Vrain Valley Schools.
“Quantum awareness isn’t a specialized skill for a select few but a fundamental literacy that will enhance opportunities for students across all postsecondary pathways. We’re cultivating both the knowledge and enthusiasm needed for students to recognize how quantum innovations will empower their future, whether they become electricians, nurses, entrepreneurs, welders, engineers, HVAC technicians, or educators,” said Joe McBreen, Assistant Superintendent of Innovation of St. Vrain Valley Schools.
Today’s announcement is part of the Polis Administration’s broader work to bridge the gap between education and workforce, ensuring all Coloradans can access the opportunities of the quantum future. To explore the Blueprint and classroom resources, visit cde.state.co.us/quantum.
CALGARY, Alberta, April 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The Enserva STARS & Spurs Gala (The Gala) celebrated another successful event this past Saturday, raising a total of $1,708,872 for Shock Trauma Air Rescue Support (STARS). This highly anticipated event brought together industry leaders, community supporters and distinguished guests to raise crucial funds for STARS, ensuring life-saving emergency medical services remain available across Western Canada.
As Alberta’s longest running and largest fundraiser, The Gala has raised nearly $24 million since its inception in 1994. This impressive amount reinforces the energy industry’s dedication to safety and community support, especially as The Gala serves as STAR’s most significant annual fundraising event. This is a testament to the generosity and commitment of Enserva’s members and partners.
“Enserva is so proud to bring together thousands from across the energy industry to raise funds for STARS,” says Enserva president and CEO, Gurpreet Lail. “This event and the outpouring of support that it receives each and every year is a true testament to the dedication of our industry in supporting the life-saving work that STARS provides across Western Canada. With over 60,000 missions completed by STARS since 1985, their impact on our communities is vital.”
STARS is a non-profit organization that provides rapid and specialized emergency medical care and transportation for critically ill and injured patients across Western Canada. STARS believes that no one should go without the critical care that could save their life, no matter where they live, work or play.
This year’s event featured a welcome reception, dinner, speeches from a STARS Very Important Patient (VIP), an Indigenous fashion show showcasing auction items created by Indigenous artists, as well as live entertainment from breakout country artist Garrett Gregory, Mocking Shadows and DJ ChargedUp. The Gala gathered guests from corporate executives and government officials to valued members of the energy service, supply, and manufacturing industries.
Enserva is already preparing for its 32nd annual gala and is encouraging organizations to contact events@enserva.ca to get a tailored sponsorship package for Alberta’s premier fundraising and networking event.
About Enserva In September 2022, the Petroleum Services Association of Canada rebranded to their new moniker, Enserva. Enserva is the voice of the Canadian energy services, supply and manufacturing sector, and its vital workforce. For over 40 years we have championed and empowered Canadian energy. We never stop innovating and finding solutions to help Canadian energy thrive. We unlock Canadian energy to find a better energy future for all. Enserva makes the world a better place by reducing energy poverty, increasing energy security, and creating economic growth and jobs. We have brought the energy industry and community leaders together to raise funds for STARS since 1994.
For more information about Enserva, visit www.enserva.ca
About STARS STARS was born from the conviction that no one should go without the care that could save their life. Whether by air, ground, or satellite link, the expert care delivered by STARS doctors, nurses, and paramedics comes in many forms. STARS is a charitable not-for-profit organization that responds to community needs.
For more information about STARS, visit www.stars.ca
For media inquiries, please contact: Shauna MacDonald Brookline Public Relations, Inc. smacdonald@brooklinepr.com 403-585-4570
Photos accompanying this announcement are available at
Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
The implementation of a large-scale project to build the Dyurtyuli-Achit highway, which will be part of the federal highway M-12 “Vostok”, is ongoing. To date, 2.7 million tons of asphalt concrete have been laid on all three stages of the highway, which runs through the territories of the Republic of Bashkortostan, Perm Krai and Sverdlovsk Oblast. This was reported by Deputy Prime Minister Marat Khusnullin.
“When implementing infrastructure projects, it is especially important to use high-quality construction materials. This is the basis of reliability and durability. This is especially relevant for transport facilities, on which the comfort and safety of Russians’ travel over short and long distances directly depends. In order to extend the federal highway M-12 “Vostok”, a new section is being built from the city of Dyurtyuli to the village of Achit, where all asphalt concrete compositions undergo thorough testing. Then, test paving is carried out on experimental sections to assess the quality of the road surface. In total, more than 3.5 million tons of asphalt concrete mixture will be used to install the upper base layer, as well as the upper and lower layers of the road surface along the entire Dyurtyuli – Achit highway. To date, 2.7 million tons have already been laid on all three stages of the highway,” said Marat Khusnullin.
The Deputy Prime Minister added that each layer of asphalt concrete pavement has its own composition depending on its purpose and expected load. In addition, due to the placement of testing laboratories directly at the site of work, operational control over the compliance of materials with the necessary requirements is ensured.
According to the Chairman of the Board of the state company Avtodor, Vyacheslav Petushenko, the asphalt concrete mixture is selected directly taking into account the conditions of its operation.
“The special feature of the asphalt concrete used in the construction of the Dyurtyuli-Achit highway is its resistance to rutting, fatigue failure, cracks, and water resistance. The produced asphalt concrete undergoes laboratory tests, where the grain composition, binder content, and volumetric characteristics are assessed. Quality control is not limited to the production stage. Asphalt concrete samples are also taken directly on experimental sections. This is important for obtaining high-quality performance characteristics of the coating,” noted Vyacheslav Petushenko.
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.
NREL Teams Up With iUnit To Advance Lower Cost Modular Housing
NREL researcher Shanti Pless introduces visitors to the NREL Research Block, which currently hosts iUnit Communities’ modular apartment prototype, shown behind Pless. Photo by Dennis Schroeder, NREL
Recently, Shanti Pless stood on a windswept hillside and listed some of the issues that come with leaky envelopes. While that phrase may conjure surreal images of damp greeting cards, the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) researcher was actually explaining the problems that arise when too much air can escape a building through its walls, windows, doors, and other openings.
“You’re paying money to heat and cool your space,” Pless explained. “A leaky envelope allows conditioned inside air to escape and outdoor air to enter. This makes it harder to maintain a stable indoor temperature, which leads to less efficient buildings and increased utility bills.”
To improve building efficiency, Pless and NREL’s Industrialized Construction Innovation (ICI) team have partnered with Virginia housing developer iUnit Communities, using iUnit’s modular apartment prototype as a testing ground. NREL hosts the 380-square-foot prototype, which features a supertight building envelope, high-performance heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, and affordable appliances, on that windswept hillside on the laboratory’s South Table Mountain Campus in Golden, Colorado. Here, researchers conduct field tests to measure the prototype’s performance and efficiency. Through this research, the ICI team studies how methods like automation, factory construction, and prefabrication can deliver affordable, reliable, energy-efficient residential buildings—while enhancing the U.S. construction workforce.
Greater Performance, Lower Costs
The high costs of housing and energy are enough to keep many consumers up at night. Addressing these challenges requires innovative housing solutions that reduce costs and improve building performance.
“How do we create housing that is efficient and therefore truly affordable?” iUnit founder Brice Leconte asked.
That question inspired Leconte to found iUnit Communities, which develops and manages residential communities focused on smart living, energy efficiency, and modern design. iUnit’s first apartment community, Eliot Flats in Denver, consists of 40 studio and one-bedroom units. Each unit was built in a factory and fully integrated with energy-efficient HVAC and water systems, as well as the capability to access hybrid energy sources, before being delivered to the Eliot Flats site and assembled into a three-story apartment building.
iUnit’s approach is unique for several reasons: First, the iUnit community model can function as a microgrid, meaning the structures can be equipped to generate and store energy. This capability reduces reliance on the traditional grid, enhancing resilience against power outages and lowering energy costs for residents. Those energy-generating features are integrated into the unit when it is constructed in the factory, which means that each unit arrives on-site fully equipped and move-in ready.
The prototype on the NREL campus is the same type as those that make up iUnit’s first community, the 40-unit Eliot Flats in Denver. Photo by Dennis Schroeder, NREL
“Because we’re working in a controlled environment, we can deliver a turnkey product,” Leconte explained. “Much like a car rolls off the assembly line ready to drive, our homes are ready to use upon delivery.”
Finally, building the units in the controlled environment of a factory allows iUnit to standardize its construction processes, improve quality control, and reduce costs—which makes the homes more affordable to renters.
“By integrating modular design and factory-built systems, we can streamline construction, maximize savings, and boost housing supply,” said NREL researcher Nick Cindrich, who also works on the iUnit project. “This ensures more affordable, high-performance housing options for those who need them most.”
NREL and iUnit Join Forces
Around the same time iUnit built the Eliot Flats community, Leconte connected with Shanti Pless at a conference, and the two decided to join forces to use an iUnit studio as a testing ground for cost-effective, modular construction methods and energy-efficient housing. Leconte agreed to provide the studio—the same as those at Eliot Flats—and Pless and the ICI team agreed to conduct the research.
The iUnit prototype arrived at the South Table Mountain Campus in 2017 and was housed in NREL’s Energy Systems Integration Facility (ESIF), where the ICI team studied the efficiency of the unit’s integrated heat pump system and advanced smart and grid-interactive controls. iUnit incorporated lessons from this research into production of newer studios. In 2019, the team moved the prototype out of the climate-controlled environment of ESIF to the campus’s Research Block. At this new location, the team has been performing field tests to understand how real-world conditions impact the prototype’s energy performance.
iUnit provided NREL with a 380-square-foot studio apartment prototype, shown here at NREL’s Research Block. NREL’s Industrialized Construction Innovation team uses the unit as a testing ground for innovative, energy-efficient building technologies. Photo by Dennis Schroeder, NREL
Most recently, the team investigated the iUnit prototype’s air infiltration and thermal performance—technical terms for determining the leakiness of a building envelope. Over the course of a year, the team pumped carbon dioxide (CO2) into the unit and used sensors to measure the CO2‘s decay, or how much the CO2 decreased, which indicated how much outside air leaked into the unit under varying weather conditions.
“If CO2 levels drop quickly, it means lots of outside air is entering and indoor air is escaping, indicating a leaky building envelope,” Pless explained. “If the level drops slowly, the space is more airtight, with less unwanted airflow. Data like this will give us valuable insights into how to optimize air barriers and improve our energy modeling tools.”
Inside the iUnit prototype, the ICI team is studying the unit’s air infiltration and thermal performance, which impact the unit’s air quality and energy efficiency. Photo by Dennis Schroeder, NREL
The ICI team uses the results of field experiments like these to help developers and factories adopt energy-efficient modular construction practices. These methods help improve energy efficiency, lower construction costs, and expand access to high-performance, affordable homes nationwide.
NREL is also developing and testing virtual construction training and testing spaces called Immersive Industrialized Construction Environments, in which workers and machines collaborate to make construction faster, safer, and more productive. By training workers in this immersive environment, the program makes learning about automation and energy-efficient construction more accessible, scalable, and safer.
A Win for Workers, Property Owners, and Residents
In addition to enhancing energy efficiency and affordability, industrialized construction has the potential to transform the construction workforce. By creating jobs in a factory setting, industrialized construction offers workers safe working conditions and new career options in a rapidly evolving industry. Factory-built construction offers a solution: Instead of battling the elements on a construction site, workers carry out their tasks in a controlled setting. That controlled setting facilitates standardized processes, enabling employers to offer training in advanced building technologies.
“iUnit exemplifies this approach by designing housing units that are fully equipped with heating, cooling, and energy systems before they leave the factory,” Pless said. “This not only streamlines construction; it creates demand for a skilled workforce trained in energy-efficient building, automation, and smart home technology. It’s a win-win.”
Visit ourIndustrialized Construction Innovation pageto learn more about NREL’s research.
NASHVILLE, Tenn., April 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Sterling Commercial Credit has rebranded in response to its product expansion, accelerated company growth, and renewal of its corporate vision. At the heart of this rebranding is a change of the company’s name to Great Elm Commercial Finance (“Great Elm CF”), aligning with its parent, Great Elm Specialty Finance.
Headquartered in Nashville with offices in Detroit, Chicago, and Washington, D.C., Great Elm CF offers a comprehensive suite of secured lending solutions, including asset-based revolving loans, secured term loans, and unitranche structures. The strategic rebranding as Great Elm CF encompasses the company’s expanded product offering into the healthcare industry and a deep commitment to creating innovative financing solutions for small and medium-sized businesses nationwide.
“Our rebranding marks an exciting new chapter as we expand our capabilities across multiple industries,” said Michael Keller, CEO of Great Elm Commercial Finance. “In addition to the industries we have historically served, we are excited to now offer tailored financing solutions to businesses in the healthcare industry, meeting the growing demand for specialized capital in this vital sector.”
Positioned for Continued Growth Great Elm Commercial Finance will continue its legacy of delivering flexible and reliable secured financing solutions, while enhancing its product offering to serve a broader range of clients and industries.
About Great Elm Commercial Finance Great Elm Commercial Finance (www.greatelmcf.com) is a Great Elm Specialty Finance business which helps its clients unlock working capital through customized, asset-based lending solutions. Great Elm CF provides flexibility, speed, and services that businesses need to thrive when traditional financing falls short. What sets Great Elm CF apart is its deep understanding of its borrowers allowing swift and creative solutions. The team brings decades of experience across credit cycles, providing the capabilities required to underwrite complex opportunities that traditional lenders avoid. Great Elm CF funds facilities from $2 million to $30 million, backed by receivables, inventory, equipment, and real estate—tailoring each structure to its clients unique capital requirements. With a relationship-first mindset, the company works closely with founders, sponsors, and advisors to craft lending solutions that stand up to real-world business challenges and seize opportunities in stride.
An additional 16 locations will benefit from Saskatchewan’s Rural and Remote Recruitment Incentive (RRRI) program to now extend eligibility to a total of 70 communities.
This incentive of up to $50,000 for a three-year return-in-service is offered to new, permanent full-time employees in nine high-priority health occupations in rural and remote communities experiencing or at risk of service disruptions due to staffing challenges.
“This incentive program has proven to be a great success in attracting highly sought after health care workers such as nurses, medical technicians and continuing care assistants, where they are most needed in our rural communities,” Rural and Remote Health Minister Lori Carr said. “We continue to deliver on growing our health care workforce to provide improved access and quality of care to patients across the province.”
More than 420 hard-to-recruit positions have been filled as a direct result of the RRRI program, which is key to stabilizing and strengthening health care services in rural and northern communities.
The 16 new communities where the incentive is now offered are: Arborfield, Balcarres, Beechy, Candle Lake, Carrot River, Central Butte, Cut Knife, Elrose, Foam Lake, Grenfell, Kerrobert, Maryfield, Pinehouse Lake, Raymore, Spiritwood and Wakaw.
“Through these robust recruitment and retention initiatives, we are continuing to stabilize local health care services in rural communities,” Saskatchewan Health Authority’s Vice President Integrated Rural Health Brenda Schwan said. “The expansion of this incentive will help us provide long-term solutions and ensure support is available to provide appropriate and equitable care as close to home as possible.”
A complete listing of the 70 communities and the nine occupations, as well as details on eligibility and how to apply are available at Saskatchewan Rural and Remote Recruitment Incentive.
Funding of $8.7 million is provided in 2025-26 for the RRRI program. This includes a $1.8 million investment for an additional intake round of up to 180 new applicants, and continued funding of $6.9 million for existing recipients completing their second and third year in the workplace.
The RRRI program has been an important component of the province’s Health Human Resources Action Plan (HHR) to recruit, train, incentivize and retain more health professionals, which has now entered its third year.
The 2025-26 Health budget provides a total of $13 million for health care incentive programs, including the Rural and Remote Recruitment Incentive, Rural Physician Incentive Program and incentives for specialists.
Details on health care opportunities, how to access them and information on the province’s HHR Action Plan to recruit, train, incentivize and retain more health professionals are available at saskatchewan.ca/HHR.
MINNEAPOLIS – Mavious Redmond of Austin, Minnesota, has pleaded guilty to theft of government funds after a 25-year social security fraud scheme, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Lisa D. Kirkpatrick.
According to court documents, Mavious Redmond, 54, devised and carried out a scheme to collect her deceased mother’s social security retirement benefits following her mother’s death in January 1999. On multiple occasions, Redmond impersonated her deceased mother to keep her fraud scheme going. For example, on June 4, 2024, Redmond personally visited the SSA office, posing as her deceased mother, and submitted a fraudulent SS-5 Application for Social Security Form using her mother’s name, date of birth, social security number, and forging her deceased mother’s signature. Redmond visited the SSA office a second time on June 20, 2024, resubmitted her deceased mother’s documentation and the form with the forged signature.
In total, from January 1999 through June 2024, Redmond collected more than $360,000 in social security payments intended for her mother.
“We are awash in federal programs fraud,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Lisa D. Kirkpatrick. “Redmond stole well more than a quarter million dollars in taxpayer funds. She scammed social security for literal decades. No more. My office will continue to aggressively pursue the federal programs fraud that plagues Minnesota.”
Redmond pleaded guilty to one count of theft of government funds in U.S. District Court before Judge Nancy E. Brasel on April 9, 2025. A sentencing hearing will take place at a later date.
This case is the result of an investigation by Social Security Administration – Office of Inspector General.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew D. Evans is prosecuting the case.
The success of Netflix drama Adolescence, along with concerns about misogynistic influencers such as Andrew Tate, has brought the “manosphere” into public discussion.
Many parents, particularly of young boys, may fear they don’t know enough about what their children are exposed to online. I research radical misogyny online, and the pathways by which young people encounter these spaces. Here is what parents should know about this content.
What is the manosphere?
The manosphere is a network of communities that create, consume and distribute content online aimed at men and boys. It includes multiple groups that differ in their aims and focus, but are all largely anti-feminist.
These groups discuss masculinity, but also topics such as health, gaming, politics and finance. They trivialise hateful rhetoric through memes, comedy and trolling (provocation or bullying for amusement) by framing it as self-help, entertainment and tools for financial success. This can make it difficult for parents to identify and for children to realise the extreme messages they are being exposed to.
Manosphere content is promoted by various influencers on popular social media platforms. These influencers often showcase unattainable wealth and status, selling the illusion that followers can achieve success by adopting their teachings.
The most notable manosphere influencer is Andrew Tate, who rose to fame in 2022. He and his brother Tristan are currently under investigation in Romania for charges of rape, human trafficking and money laundering, and in the UK for rape and human trafficking. However, he is not the only influencer out there.
In recent years, there have been a number of incidents of violence that have been linked to manosphere content. The extent of real-world effects is difficult to measure, and not everyone who engages with the manosphere will go on to commit violence. But it’s clear that these communities can promote violence or spread harmful ideas about women and girls.
It is important to note, however, that this content also harms men and young boys. The manosphere promotes unrealistic expectations and extreme measures which can lead to poor self-esteem, mental health problems and, in some cases, suicide. This content preys on vulnerabilities and insecurities of boys and young men, especially related to social isolation and sexual rejection.
Misinformation and pseudoscience
Much of the content that spreads in the manosphere is based on disinformation or pseudoscientific theories. These provide an easy framework for men to assess and improve their status while framing women and feminism as the problem.
For example, the “80/20 rule” refers to the pseudoscientific theory that 80% of women are only attracted to the top 20% of men. In the manosphere, this rule is used to blame women for mens’ feelings of sexual or romantic rejection.
Influencers and community members promote step-by-step instructions that people can follow to improve their social standing. Many of these guides involve extreme or harmful physical transformations in a phenomenon known as “looksmaxxing”, which can even involve facial surgery in a bid to increase their sexual “value”.
The manosphere has an expansive lexicon which is used to incite hatred towards women and fuel rivalry between men. Common terms include:
Red pill: TRP, the manosphere’s core philosophy, derived from the Matrix, frames the red pill as an awakening to feminism’s oppression of men. The blue pill represents ignorance, and the black pill, used by incels, as accepting their “terminal” celibacy status.
Amog (alpha male of the group), Alpha, Gamma, Omega, Sigma, Sub-5 – These terms categorise and compare men and their social status. While sigma and alpha males or Amogs are considered the top of the hierarchy, the terms gamma, omega, and sub-5 denigrate men perceived to be of a lower status.
White Knight, Soyboy: Derogatory terms describe men who are viewed as being subservient to women.
Awalt (All women are like that), Foid/Femoid (female humanoid), Becky, Carousel: Terms used to denigrate and dehumanise women.
Parents should not panic if they hear their children using manosphere terms. They may not fully understand their meanings and may have encountered them innocently. However, changes in how boys talk about women and girls, withdrawal from family and friends, and frequent use of these terms can be an indication that they are being influenced by the manosphere.
Supporting your child
Most adolescents will come across manosphere content at some point. A recent survey found that 59% of boys accessed manosphere content through innocent and unrelated searches. This doesn’t necessarily mean that they endorse the misogynistic values spread by these groups.
Here are some steps you can take to support your child.
1. Explore online together
Research commissioned by media regulator Ofcom found that children were more likely to come across harmful content if their parents are less engaged in what they are doing. Watching content that relates to your children’s hobbies, and sending them content you think they would like, can help train algorithms to promote more moderate content and open up an avenue for discussion.
Engaging online with your child can be a natural way to start conversations about what they are exposed to. It is important that you are not trying to intervene or critique, but rather understand why they enjoy watching certain influencers or content.
2. Encourage reflection and media literacy
Research suggests that teaching children to be sceptical about what they see online can inoculate them against mis- and disinformation.
The most obvious disinformation they are most likely to come across in the manosphere may be in the form of statistics, summaries of “academic” reports, and news articles about instances of female aggression or false rape allegations. They may also come across misleading content in educational or self-help posts, about improving their appearance or how to be successful.
Ask your children why they trust certain influencers and where they think their friends get their information. These kinds of questions can help them develop their own fact-checking skills without it seeming like a lesson.
3. Ask open-ended questions
Asking children about what they consume or what slang they use online can feel cringe. The best way to get around this is to ask simple open-ended questions such as “How do boys in your class talk about girls?” or “Have you ever heard of…?”
What you hear may be shocking, but approach it with curiosity and without judgment or dismissal to let them know they can share things with you.
If you are concerned about your child’s behaviour, you can also get support from resources such as Young Minds mental health support, the Center for Countering Digital Hate’s free parents guide or the government’s radicalisation helpline ACT Early. Getting support from government services is not a punishment. It won’t go on a person’s criminal record, but can provide access to governmental services like Prevent.
Annabel Hoare, PhD Student in Gender-Based Political Violence, Anglia Ruskin University
UConn Health marched in the championship parade for the UConn women’s basketball team in downtown Hartford April 13, 2025. Photos by Tina Encarnacion:
group dressed in UConn Health “champions of healthcare” shirts holding “Congrats” banner
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Led by Dr. Andy Agwunobi (center), CEO and EVP for health affairs, a UConn Health contingent marches in the UConn women’s basketball championship parage in downtown Hartford April 13, 2025. (Tina Encarnacion/UConn Health photo)
portrait of three young girls, two of them in a double stroller
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Some young Huskies fans turn out to cheer on the champs. (Tina Encarnacion/UConn Health photo)
Several parade vehicles, including President Maric’s
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UConn President Radenka Maric waves to the crowd from the procession. (Tina Encarnacion/UConn Health photo)
members of the UConn women’s basketball team on a parade float behind a “congratulations” banner
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The champs are here! (Tina Encarnacion/UConn Health photo)
Outdoor portrait, mom with three girls
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UConn Health’s Lauren Woods with her daughters get ready to cheer on the champs. (Tina Encarnacion/UConn Health photo)
group dressed in UConn Health “champions of healthcare” shirts, one holding up a “Congratulations, Huskies!” sign
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UConn Health represents at the championship parade. (Tina Encarnacion/UConn Health photo)
large group portrait, many dressed in UConn Health “champions of healthcare” shirts and holding congratulatory signs
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UConn Health employees, friends and families prepare to march in the Huskies championship parade. (Tina Encarnacion/UConn Health photo)
Man holds child up to greet President Maric atop a parade float
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UConn President Radenka Maric greets a young Huskies fan. (Tina Encarnacion/UConn Health photo)
OAKLAND – California Attorney General Rob Bonta co-led a coalition of 22 attorneys general in submitting a comment letter opposing a proposed rule by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) that would make over a dozen amendments to rules governing federal and state health insurance marketplaces, such as Covered California, established by the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA). In the letter, the coalition argues that these changes undermine the core mission of the ACA, which is to “increase the number of Americans covered by health insurance and decrease the cost of healthcare.” Instead, the proposed rule would cause millions to lose their health coverage and millions more to pay increased insurance premiums and out-of-pocket costs.
“No one should ever have to go without the care they need due to cost or other barriers surrounding health insurance,” said Attorney General Bonta. “At the California DOJ, we are committed to ensuring that all Californians have access to quality and affordable health care regardless of their circumstances.”
California has nearly 1.8 million ACA plan enrollees, the third highest of any state. The proposed rule by HHS would make substantial changes to the operations of the ACA, including shortening the open enrollment period for accessing the ACA marketplace, ending coverage for millions of individuals nationwide, and stripping Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) recipients of ACA insurance eligibility. The proposed changes also prohibit coverage of gender-affirming care as an Essential Health Benefit (EHB) on federal exchange plans, leaving states responsible for paying any increase in premium as part of the premium subsidies if they require such coverage.
In the letter, the attorneys general assert that the proposed rule:
Shortens the Open Enrollment Period, denying Californians greater access to the ACA marketplace and eliminating California’s historic flexibility to extend the Open Enrollment period, which in prior years has driven large enrollments in Covered California.
Fails to accomplish its purported goal of combatting fraud and increasing marketplace efficiency, as it increases premiums and out-of-pocket costs, leaving enrollees with less comprehensive coverage.
Makes coverage unnecessarily difficult to obtain as the proposed changes create additional hurdles that will significantly restrict eligibility and diminish enrollment.
Bars DACA recipients from access to state and federal ACA exchanges, harming California and other states’ economies, public health, and welfare by increasing the number of uninsured residents.
Unlawfully excludes coverage for gender-affirming care as an EHB, violating the Equal Protection Clause and Section 1557 of the ACA.
Attorney General Bonta is committed to safeguarding access to affordable healthcare for all. In January 2025, Attorney General Bonta, as part of a multistate coalition, filed a motion to intervene in defense of a rule expanding healthcare access for DACA recipients by making them eligible to participate in the Affordable Care Act’s insurance marketplace. In February 2025, he co-led a coalition in filing an amicus brief in the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland challenging President Trump’s Executive Orders 14168 and 14187, which target transgender individuals and attempt to strip federal funding from institutions that provide life-saving gender-affirming care for individuals under the age of 19. The same month, Attorney General Bonta joined a coalition in filing an amicus brief with the U.S. Supreme Court in support of the ACA’s preventive care mandate, which requires private insurers to cover at no cost certain preventive services as determined by the Preventive Services Task Force.
In sending the comment letter, Attorney General Bonta joins the attorneys general of New Jersey, Massachusetts, Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, District of Columbia, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Maryland, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Washington, and Wisconsin.
A Texas man was sentenced last week to seven years and 10 months in prison for conspiring with four co-defendants to commit a Hobbs Act robbery and using a firearm during a drug trafficking crime.
According to court documents, Harry Keith Dwyan Goffney, 23, of Houston, conspired to rob a semi-truck trailer, which he believed contained approximately 30 kilograms of cocaine and 400 firearms. When Goffney and co-conspirators approached the trailer, armed with firearms, they were caught on surveillance camera wearing masks and gloves. Goffney and two co-defendants opened the trailer but did not find the cocaine and firearms, so they left.
Co-defendant Tracy Lee Stevenson, 31, of Houston, pleaded guilty yesterday to conspiracy to interfere with commerce by robbery and use of a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime. He is scheduled to be sentenced on July 17 and faces a maximum penalty of life in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division and Special Agent in Charge Douglas A. Williams of the FBI Houston Field Office made the announcement.
The FBI Houston Field Office investigated the case.
Trial Attorneys Sarah J. Rasalam and Justin G. Bish of the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime and Racketeering Section are prosecuting the case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces and Project Safe Neighborhood.
A Texas man was sentenced last week to seven years and 10 months in prison for conspiring with four co-defendants to commit a Hobbs Act robbery and using a firearm during a drug trafficking crime.
According to court documents, Harry Keith Dwyan Goffney, 23, of Houston, conspired to rob a semi-truck trailer, which he believed contained approximately 30 kilograms of cocaine and 400 firearms. When Goffney and co-conspirators approached the trailer, armed with firearms, they were caught on surveillance camera wearing masks and gloves. Goffney and two co-defendants opened the trailer but did not find the cocaine and firearms, so they left.
Co-defendant Tracy Lee Stevenson, 31, of Houston, pleaded guilty yesterday to conspiracy to interfere with commerce by robbery and use of a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime. He is scheduled to be sentenced on July 17 and faces a maximum penalty of life in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division and Special Agent in Charge Douglas A. Williams of the FBI Houston Field Office made the announcement.
The FBI Houston Field Office investigated the case.
Trial Attorneys Sarah J. Rasalam and Justin G. Bish of the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime and Racketeering Section are prosecuting the case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces and Project Safe Neighborhood.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Randy Feenstra (IA-04)
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Reps. Randy Feenstra (R-IA) and Mark Alford (R-MO) alongside U.S. Senators Pete Ricketts (R-NE) and Deb Fischer (R-NE) led a bicameral group of colleagues in sending a letter to U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins, U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy, and Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency Lee Zeldin.
In the letter, the lawmakers call for the use of sound science and risk-based analysis as the MAHA Commission finalizes its work, particularly on crop protection tools, biotechnology, and food- and feed-grade ingredients.
The lawmakers write, “We write to express our strong appreciation for your leadership and interest in working with each of you to ensure America has the healthiest people in the world. In recent decades, chronic illness rates have risen. This warrants our careful scrutiny to support better health outcomes. It is essential that policies supported by sound science and risk-based analyses are used to accomplish this goal.”
“We have concerns that environmentalists are advancing harmful health, economic, or food security policies under the guise of human health,” the letter continues. “Despite insinuations to the contrary, regular testing by FDA and USDA finds that more than 99% of all pesticide residues meet extremely conservative limits established by EPA according to the best available science,”
Read the full letter HERE or below.
Dear Secretary Kennedy, Secretary Rollins, and Administrator Zeldin:
We write to express our strong appreciation for your leadership and interest in working with each of you to ensure America has the healthiest people in the world. In recent decades, chronic illness rates have risen. This warrants our careful scrutiny and to support better health outcomes. It is essential that policies supported by sound science and risk-based analyses are used to accomplish this goal.
We also urge you to safeguard the work of the Make America Healthy Again Commission (Commission) from activist groups promoting misguided and sometimes even malicious policies masquerading as health solutions. The influence of these groups in the Commission would result in shoddy science; a less abundant, less affordable food supply; greater reliance on foreign adversaries for our food; diminished U.S. agricultural production and manufacturing; and, ultimately, poorer health outcomes.
President Trump recently stated environmental activists were holding the economic prosperity of our country hostage. We now have concerns that they are seeking to influence the work of the Commission to advance their agenda. For decades activist groups have tried to ban safe, well-regulated agricultural inputs by any means necessary. Without these products, yields and quality are negatively impacted by otherwise avoidable insects, fungus, weeds, and other pest pressures. This drives up food prices for American consumers and forces reliance of food imports.
The same groups have seized upon the Commission’s work as an opportunity to misrepresent the science on common food and feed categories or ingredients, such as plant-based oils. These inputs are subject to a robust, risk-based regulatory system which focuses on protecting human health. Unfounded accusations harm the U.S. farmers who grow our food, upend food and feed supply chains, and significantly increase grocery food prices – all without public health benefit.
We have concerns that environmentalists are advancing harmful health, economic, or food security policies under the guise of human health. Despite insinuations to the contrary, regular testing by FDA and USDA finds that more than 99% of all pesticide residues meet extremely conservative limits established by EPA according to the best available science.
We applaud the Commission’s desire to improve the health and well-being of Americans. We implore you to ensure policy decisions are grounded in sound science and risk-based analyses. With unity, we can protect American agricultural producers from environmental activists’ attacks on proven-safe inputs critical to their profitability and long-term viability while promoting positive health outcomes.
Source: US State of California Department of Justice
Bipartisan coalition of attorneys general writes that federal action is needed to protect consumers and small businesses
OAKLAND — California Attorney General Rob Bonta today joined a bipartisan coalition of 39 attorneys general in urging the leaders of the U.S. House of Representatives and U.S. Senate to enact a law that prohibits Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs), their parent companies, or affiliates from owning or operating pharmacies. Created in the late 1960s to process claims for drug companies, PBMs were supposed to help consumers access low-cost pharmaceutical care through negotiated volume-pricing discounts, generic substitution, manufacturer rebates, and other tools. However, the attorneys general write, PBMs have overtaken the market and now wield outsized power to reap massive profits at the expense of consumers and local community pharmacies. In particular, PBMs’ use of affiliated pharmacies — pharmacies owned by either the PBM itself or the PBM’s parent company — has exacerbated the problem of manipulated prices, the growth of pharmacy deserts, and the unavailability of certain prescription medications.
“PBMs’ priority is not consumers, but rather their own bottom line. They must be reined in,” said Attorney General Bonta. “Drug prices have skyrocketed in recent years, and PBMs have exacerbated the problem. To protect consumers and small businesses, we need more competition — not less — in the marketplace. A federal law prohibiting PBMs, and their parent companies or affiliates, from owning or operating pharmacies is long overdue, and I’m proud to be part of a bipartisan coalition of attorneys general that is calling on Congressional leadership to make it a reality.”
In the letter, the attorneys general emphasize that:
Over the past few decades, horizontal consolidation and vertical integration have transformed PBMs from useful administrative service providers into market-dominating behemoths that control the industry. Horizontal consolidation here is the merger of competing PBMs and vertical consolidation here is the acquisition of pharmacies by PBMs at the expense of competitors of those PBMs and pharmacies.
The three largest PBMs — CVS Caremark, Optum Rx, and Express Scripts — process 80% of the nation’s prescriptions and bring in 70% of the specialty drug revenue. Furthermore, each of the top six PBMs operate their own affiliated pharmacies, while five of the top six are also a part of parent conglomerates that operate insurance companies and health care clinics.
In addition to owning pharmacies, PBMs also contract with non-affiliated pharmacies, including independent pharmacies, to create pharmacy networks that control where their members can get their drugs and at what prices. This creates the situation where the PBMs — through ownership of affiliated pharmacies — are contracting with and have power over their own pharmacies’ competition. The PBMs then use their place as middlemen to exert this power in ways that harm independent pharmacies, forcing these small businesses to accept contractual terms that are “confusing, unfair, arbitrary, and harmful” and ultimately causing them to go out of business.
Over the course of the last decade, approximately 10% of rural independent pharmacies in the United States have closed. The closure of independent pharmacies, and the community services they provide, is felt strongly by consumers — especially those in rural or otherwise underserved areas who are left with dwindling access to retail pharmacies that are ever farther away.
In sending today’s letter, Attorney General Bonta joins the attorneys general of Alaska, American Samoa, Arkansas, Arizona, California, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Hawaii, Illinois, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Tennessee, Utah, Vermont, Virgin Islands, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.
Shapiro Administration, Advocates Highlight Life-Saving Impacts of Organ Donation
More than 6,000 Pennsylvanians await organ transplants
In support of the Shapiro Administration’s commitment to public health, officials from the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT), the Department of Health (DOH), the Center for Organ Recovery and Education (CORE), and Gift of Life Donor Program joined together to highlight the importance of registering as an organ donor as part of National Donate Life Month in April.
“Choosing to become an organ donor could help save a life or help to enhance the quality of life for those awaiting a transplant,” said PennDOT Deputy Secretary for Driver and Vehicle Services Kara Templeton. “And you don’t have to wait until you renew your driver’s license or ID card – you can add the designation any time.”
Today also marks National Donate Life Blue & Green Day. During this special celebration, the public is encouraged to wear blue and green – the recognized colors of organ donation organizations – to share the Donate Life message and promote the importance of registering as an organ, cornea, and tissue donor.
Speakers Include: Kara Templeton, PennDOT Deputy Secretary for Driver and Vehicle Services Cindy Findley, Department of Health Deputy Secretary for Health Promotion and Disease Prevention Brenda Alton, Member of Pennsylvania’s Organ Donation Advisory Board Sarah Drummond, Husband was an organ donor, Harrisonville, PA Lois Angelisanti, Heart recipient, Reading, PA
Shapiro Administration Encourages Pennsylvanians to Prepare for Federal REAL ID Enforcement in Less Than One Month
With the start of federal REAL ID enforcement beginning in less than a month, Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) Secretary Mike Carroll, along with officials from the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport, and the American Automobile Association (AAA), are encouraging Pennsylvanians to prepare now These efforts reflect the Shapiro Administration’s commitment to ensuring residents have the information and opportunities they need to be ready for federal REAL ID enforcement.
Getting a REAL ID is optional in Pennsylvania, but beginning May 7, travelers will need a REAL ID driver’s license or ID card, or another form of federally-acceptable identification (such as a valid passport or military ID) to board a domestic commercial flight, and enter a military base or other federal facilities that require ID at the door. More than 2.6 million Pennsylvanians have gotten a REAL ID driver’s license or ID card since they became available in the state in 2019.
“We know that people look forward to traveling with friends and family,” said Carroll. “But after May 7, if you don’t have a REAL ID or a passport, you won’t be able to board a domestic flight. We’re strongly encouraging everyone to make sure you have what you need to travel before you arrive at the airport, especially if you already have flights planned for the summer.”
Speakers Include: Carl Beardsley, Executive Director for Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport Kara Templeton, Deputy Secretary for Driver and Vehicle Services, PennDOT Nina Waskevich, Vice President, Brand and Membership, AAA North
In today’s hyperconnected world, where much of our social and professional lives plays out online, the digital realm should feel safe and respectful. But for many, particularly women, young boys and marginalised groups, that’s far from reality. Cyber-sexual harassment is a growing and deeply harmful issue that demands greater awareness and action.
Cyber-sexual harassment describes a wide range of unwanted or abusive sexual behaviour online. Gender harassment includes offensive messages, images, or memes targeting someone’s gender, often without direct sexual content – but still deeply degrading. Unwanted sexual attention online can take the form of unsolicited sexting or cyberflashing – sending sexually explicit images to another person without their consent.
Sexual coercion is using threats, blackmail or emotional manipulation to force someone into sharing intimate content or engaging in sexual behaviour online. A growing concern is sextortion – where victims are blackmailed with private images, often under, sometimes unbearable, pressure.
According to UK police data, an average of 117 sextortion cases involving children were reported monthly between January and May 2024. The Internet Watch Foundation even found children as young as 11 being targeted.
Terrible toll
Cyber-sexual harassment isn’t just invasive – it’s damaging. Our study builds on clinical psychologist Marvin Iroegbu’s doctoral research on the relationship between cyber-sexual harassment and psychological difficulties in women. We found that women who experienced online sexual harassment reported significantly poorer mental health than those who hadn’t. Anxiety, depression, trauma and poor body image were all more likely. Our research suggests that this may stem from increased self-objectification and a heightened focus on physical appearance due to being targeted.
Government research shows that women experience online abuse more frequently – and more severely – than men. Unwanted images, comments and messages are just the beginning. And the impact starts young. Studies highlight the psychological toll on both children and adults, noting that unexpected, anonymous and rapid abuse can leave victims feeling fearful, powerless, deeply ashamed and with low self-esteem.
Our research also found that younger women and those with large social media followings are more frequently targeted for cyber-sexual harassment. This may be due to greater online visibility or time spent on platforms. Our study also found that women in newer or no romantic relationships reported higher levels of harassment.
There’s also a clear link between online and offline abuse. Victims of cyber-sexual harassment were more likely to report in-person harassment too. According to the European Institute for Gender Equality, online abuse often mirrors and extends to real-world gender-based violence.
Research into how cyber-sexual harassment affects these groups is still lacking, however. Many national cybercrime studies fail to include data on race, gender identity, or sexual orientation – making it harder to advocate for targeted support.
While the Online Safety Bill now allows for prosecution of offences such as cyberflashing – with recent convictions in some cases leading to prison sentences for the offender – many victims still don’t report abuse. Barriers include frustrating reporting systems, victim-blaming, and the perception among victims that their complaints won’t be taken seriously.
New legislation should be assessed to see whether it sufficiently supports victims, encourages reporting, leads to convictions and deters perpetrators.
Many charities and organisations now provide support for online abuse victims – but more needs to be done. Mental health professionals are encouraged to consider online experiences as part of their patient assessments. Meanwhile, research like ours explores how different types of cyber-sexual harassment – such as the frequency or content of explicit messages – affect people differently.
One thing is clear: cyber-sexual harassment is intrusive, traumatic and rooted in a lack of respect for consent. Cyberflashing and other forms of online sexual abuse are not harmless jokes. They’re violations. And no one should have to deal with them in silence.
Freya O’Brien 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.
Source: State University Higher School of Economics – State University Higher School of Economics –
Faculty of Computer Science HSE, together with the Russian IT company Avito, announces the launch of a new Master’s program in Machine Learning (ML) in Digital Product. The program is aimed at training specialists who will be able to apply advanced machine learning technologies to solve real business problems and create products used by millions of users. A total of 35 people will be able to undergo training in the first wave, the training of 30 of them will be fully financed by Avito.
The program is suitable for graduates of a bachelor’s degree in mathematical, technical or economic specialties who want to deepen their knowledge in the field of machine learning. Avito expects that future students can program in Python and write understandable code for analysts and engineers, know standard algorithms and data structures, as well as the basics of ML and SQL, have basic knowledge in the field of linear algebra, probability theory, mathematical statistics and mathematical analysis.
The full-time master’s program lasts two years and includes both mandatory and optional courses, allowing students to create an individual educational track. Mandatory subjects include probability theory, mathematical statistics, recommender systems, deep learning, MLOps, Python algorithms, backend development, and GPU computing. Elective courses include the basics of micro- and macroeconomics, mechanism design, auction theory, LLM (Large Language Models), deep learning in audio and video processing, dynamic pricing, etc.
Students will be able to get a paid internship in one of Avito’s DS teams already during their studies — the company will launch several waves of selection during the training period. During the internship, students will be able to use the practical knowledge they have gained when writing term papers and theses under the guidance of a mentor from the team.
The development of the master’s program was carried out jointly with experts from the HSE Faculty of Computer Science and data scientists from Avito. The teachers are leading specialists in the field of machine learning, such as Anna Markova, Ruslan Gilyazev, Anastasia Rysmyatova, Mikhail Kamenshchikov and Alexander Ledovsky, who have both teaching experience and experience working on large Avito projects, including the development of platforms for predicting ad parameters, monetization and algorithms for ranking paid ads.
To be admitted, you must pass a portfolio competition and an interview with Avito experts. The selection starts on June 20 and will last until the end of August.
“Our Master’s program is an opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of machine learning and learn how to solve real business problems. Students will master the full cycle of working with ML – from design to implementation, solving cases based on Avito data. This is a unique chance to gain practical experience in a large IT company. We strive to make education accessible to talented students, so Avito fully covers the cost of tuition for 30 program participants. Classes are held in the evenings and on Saturdays, which allows students not only to study, but also to immediately apply knowledge in practice, building a career in parallel with their studies,” shared Ilya Nikitin, academic director of the educational program “Machine Learning in a Digital Product”, a lecturer at the Faculty of Computer Science at the Higher School of Economics.
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.
Saskatchewan Government Delivers on Commitment to More Timely Access and Enhanced Breast Health Services
The highly anticipated Regina Breast Health Centre will officially open its doors to patients next week on April 23rd. The new centre will provide a variety of services, including diagnostic imaging, biopsies, specialist consultations, patient education and navigation, as well as other future on-site post treatment therapies and rehabilitation.
“Women will now have improved access to a full range of breast health services and the supports they need to help them through the difficult journey of diagnosis, treatment and recovery in a centralized way,” Health Minister Jeremy Cockrill said. “Regina’s new Breast Health Centre represents a significant investment in the health and wellbeing of Saskatchewan women and will have a positive impact to breast health services in our province.”
Co-location of essential services at the Breast Health Centre will allow family physicians and nurse practitioners to provide a single referral rather than coordinating multiple referrals. This streamlined approach will reduce wait times and improve the patient experience in what can often be a challenging time.
“The new Breast Health Centre is going to have an incredibly positive impact on anyone facing a breast cancer diagnosis in Regina and surrounding areas,” breast cancer survivor and Inpower Committee Member Briana Bolduc said. “I think the familiarity of having appointments in the same location will provide a much-needed sense of comfort and help reduce anxiety during a really difficult time. Anything that makes the cancer journey a bit more manageable is a win, and I am grateful this centre will exist for those who need it.”
Patients will receive coordinated care from the time they are referred by a primary care provider through assessment, diagnosis, and treatment if required (including surgery and/or referral to an oncologist), as well as connections to other services for therapies, rehabilitation or reconstructions.
Multi-disciplinary teams will include breast radiologists, breast specialized surgeons, nurse navigators, diagnostic imaging professionals, physiotherapists, a social worker and support administrative staff all working together and closely collaborating as a team to provide timely care and a better patient experience.
“The opening of the Regina Breast Health Centre reflects our commitment to timely, compassionate, high-quality care for women facing breast health concerns,” Saskatchewan Health Authority Chief Operating Officer Derek Miller said. “By bringing key services together under one roof, we are making care more coordinated, accessible, and supportive for every patient.”
Government has invested $8.5 million to open the new Breast Health Centre including building renovations, diagnostic equipment and staffing.
“We continue to deliver on our commitment to improve access and ensure the best possible outcomes for patients through a number of ongoing initiatives to enhance breast care,” Cockrill said. “We are also grateful to the Hospitals of Regina Foundation for their support in funding two radiologists to receive fellowship training for breast imaging and intervention specialties and deliver highly specialized care to Saskatchewan women.”
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For more information, contact:
Media Health Regina Phone: 306-787-4083 Email: media@health.gov.sk.ca