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Category: Transport

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Stay informed about measles in Alberta

    Measles cases are increasing globally, with numerous countries and travel destinations reporting outbreaks. Cases have been identified in several Canadian provinces, including an outbreak recently identified in northern Alberta.

    As of March 13, health officials have confirmed six cases of measles in the province, and although these cases are all part of a single household, this does raise concerns about the potential for further spread of this highly contagious disease.

    Measles is an extremely contagious disease and spreads easily through the air. People born in or since 1970 who have received fewer than two doses of measles-containing vaccine are susceptible to infection. Those who have received fewer than two doses of measles-containing vaccine and are pregnant, under one year of age, are adults and/or have a weakened immune system are at most risk of complications from measles.

    “Measles is not just a mild childhood illness – it is a serious, highly infectious disease that can have devastating consequences. Thankfully, we have a highly effective vaccine with a long-proven track record of safety. Everyone should take the time to check their immunization record to ensure they are fully immunized. No one should have to endure the consequences of a disease we can prevent.”

    Dr. Mark Joffe, chief medical officer of health

    The measles vaccine is highly effective at preventing infection and complications. In Alberta, measles vaccine is offered free of charge to eligible Albertans through Alberta’s publicly funded immunization program.

    If symptoms of measles do develop, individuals are advised to stay home and call Health Link at 811 before visiting any health care facility or provider, including a family physician clinic or pharmacy.

    Symptoms of measles include:

    • fever of 38.3° C or higher
    • cough, runny nose and/or red eyes
    • a red, blotchy rash that appears three to seven days after fever starts, typically beginning behind the ears and on the face and spreading down the body and then to the arms and legs

    Albertans uncertain of their immunization history, or their child’s immunization history, can text “vaccine record” to 88111, call Health Link at 811 or their local public health office. Albertans can also text “measles” to 88111 to get measles health information texted to their mobile device. Please contact your primary care provider for advice on what immunizations are best for you.

    For further information on routine childhood immunization, visit ahs.ca/immunize.

    For additional information on measles disease, please visit www.ahs.ca/measles.

    Quick facts

    • Measles can be dangerous because:
      • One in 10 people with measles will get middle ear or lung infections.
      • One in 1,000 people with measles will get encephalitis (swelling of the brain), which can lead to seizures, deafness or brain damage.
      • One to three of every 1,000 people with measles will die.
    • More than 90 per cent of people who are not immune to measles and who come into contact with the virus will become infected.
    • Children in Alberta typically receive their first dose of measles-containing vaccine at 12 months of age, and their second dose at 18 months of age. Children who received two doses of vaccine are considered protected.
    • Adults born in 1970 or later should have a documented history of two lifetime doses of measles-containing vaccine spaced at least four weeks apart if they do not have a history of lab-confirmed disease or serological evidence of measles immunity.
    • Adults born before 1970 are generally considered immune to measles, as measles circulated widely before 1970. One or two doses of the vaccine may be recommended if you are a health care worker, student at a post-secondary educational institution or are travelling outside of Canada.

    Related links

    • Immunization and vaccines
    • Learn about measles

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tillis, Peters Introduce Bill to Safeguard Access to High Quality Cancer Care

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for North Carolina Thom Tillis
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC) and Gary Peters (D-MI) introduced the Radiation Oncology Case Rate (ROCR) Value-Based Program Act, bipartisan legislation that would modernize Medicare reimbursement for radiation therapy, safeguarding access to high-quality cancer care and improving outcomes.
    “The ROCR Act modernizes Medicare’s payment system to ensure cancer patients receive the best care possible,” said Senator Tillis. “Current reimbursement policies reward quantity over quality, making it harder for physicians to provide the tailored, high-quality care cancer patients deserve. This bipartisan bill fixes this by shifting to a fair, bundled payment model that removes incentives for longer treatments, supports innovation, and ensures continued access to world-class care.” 
    “Radiation oncology is a highly effective tool for fighting certain cancers, but outdated Medicare reimbursement policies prevent many Americans from being able to utilize this treatment,” said Senator Peters. “I’m proud to help lead this bipartisan bill that would reduce barriers to this essential care for cancer patients and ensure oncologists can prescribe the best treatment available for their patients.”
    “In place of repeated Medicare payment cuts and outdated policies, ROCR offers a stable, sustainable payment framework that ensures Americans can access high quality, lifesaving cancer treatments in their communities,” said Dr. Howard M. Sandler, Chair of the American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) Board of Directors. “ASTRO applauds Sen. Tillis, Sen. Peters, Rep. Fitzpatrick, Rep. Panetta, Rep. Joyce and Rep. Tonko for their bipartisan leadership in prioritizing patient needs and quality for our nation’s cancer care infrastructure.”
    More than 80 organizations have endorsed the ROCR Act, representing a diverse group of radiation oncology stakeholders, patient advocates, medical professionals, independent clinics, hospital systems, and technology companies. This includes Advocate Health, American College of Radiation Oncology (ACRO), American College of Radiology, American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO), Association for Clinical Oncology (ASCO), Boston Scientific, University of North Carolina, US Oncology Network, and more. 
    Background: 
    ROCR is designed to reverse more than a decade of declining Medicare payments for radiation therapy, a lifesaving treatment relied upon by over a million cancer patients annually. Despite its critical role in patient care and cost-effectiveness for the Medicare system, radiation oncology has suffered more than a 20% cut in Medicare Physician Fee Schedule reimbursements over the past decade—one of the largest reductions of any medical specialty. These cuts threaten patient access to essential cancer treatments, particularly in community and rural settings.
    By building on the framework of the indefinitely delayed Medicare-proposed Radiation Oncology Alternative Payment Model, ROCR retains the advantages of episode-based payments while fixing major flaws, including excessive payment cuts and burdensome quality reporting. By ensuring fair and sustainable reimbursement, ROCR safeguards patient access to high-quality, evidence-based radiation therapy, helping to close treatment gaps and strengthen the nation’s cancer care system. 
    The ROCR Act:
    Implements a patient-centric, episode-based payment system that aligns financial incentives with clinical care guidelines.
    Promotes the use of evidence-based, shorter treatment course when clinically appropriate, reducing physical and financial strain on patients. 
    Enhances quality and safety standards by incentivizing practice accreditation and timely adoption of new technologies for improved care.
    Provides targeted assistance to address transportation barriers that prevent patients in rural and underserved areas from accessing or completing treatment. 
    Standardizes technical payments across hospital-based and free-standing practice settings.
    Full text of the bill is available HERE. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Duckworth Will Vote No on Republican Bill That Would Cement Elon Musk’s Harmful DOGE Cuts at the Expense of Middle-Class Families

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Tammy Duckworth
    March 14, 2025
    [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Today, U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) issued the following statement announcing she will vote no on Republicans’ extremely harmful continuing resolution:
    “I refuse to vote for Republicans’ highly-partisan slush fund bill that grants Donald Trump and co-President Elon Musk permission to continue rigging our government and our economy against the middle class. After weeks of an unelected billionaire taking a chainsaw to programs and services that millions depend on, Republicans are ramming through a bill that would greenlight more of the same chaos—and further cut programs for middle-class Americans, seniors and Veterans in order to carve out tax cuts for billionaires. Hell no, I cannot support that.
    “Americans deserve so much better. Before the clock runs out, it’s time for Republicans to come back to the negotiating table that they walked away from and strike a bipartisan deal to keep our government open, invest in families and protect our national security. If they don’t, then make no mistake: Republicans own whatever outcome tomorrow may bring.”
    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: G7 Foreign Ministers’ Declaration on Maritime Security and Prosperity

    Source: Government of Canada News

    March 14, 2025 – Charlevoix, Québec – Global Affairs Canada

    1. We, the Foreign Ministers of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States of America, and the High Representative of the European Union, reaffirm the G7’s steadfast commitment to contribute towards a free, open, and secure maritime domain based on the rule of law that strengthens international security, fosters economic prosperity, and ensures the sustainable use of marine resources.

    2. Maritime security and prosperity are fundamental to global stability, economic resilience, and the well-being of all nations, and the conservation and sustainable use of ocean ecosystems is essential to all life on Earth. Over 80% of global trade is transported by sea, and 97% of global data flows through submarine cables. Disruptions to maritime routes pose a direct threat to international food security, critical minerals, energy security, global supply chains, and economic stability. We express deep concern over the growing risks to maritime security, including strategic contestation, threats to freedom of navigation and overflight, and illicit shipping activities. State behaviour in these areas has increased the risk of conflict and environmental damage, and imperils all nations’ prosperity and living standards, especially for the world’s poorest. 

    3. We recognize the role of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) as the legal framework for governing all activities in the oceans and the seas.

    4. We recall the G7 Statements on Maritime Security adopted in Lübeck (2015) and Hiroshima (2016). We welcome related work presently underway through other G7 ministerial tracks and working groups, on a range of issues including securing undersea cable networks and combating abandoned fishing gear. We welcome, as well, G7 work relating to transnational organized crime and terrorism that touches on the maritime domain, including in relation to piracy and armed robbery at sea, trafficking in persons, and strengthening the maritime law enforcement capabilities of coastal states. We acknowledge the importance of regional maritime security frameworks, to support coastal states to address collectively threats to their maritime security. We welcome existing initiatives, such as the G7++ Friends of the Gulf of Guinea (G7++ FoGG, that Canada chairs this year), which has been the primary forum for dialogue among G7 members and partners on maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea.

    Emerging Threat on Safe Seas and Freedom of Navigation and Overflight

    5. Enhancing Stability: We underscore the importance of freedom of navigation and overflight and other internationally lawful uses of the high seas and the exclusive economic zones as well as to the related rights and freedoms in other maritime zones, including the rights of innocent passage, transit passage and archipelagic sea lanes passage, as provided for under international law. We share a growing concern at recent, unjustifiable efforts to restrict such freedom and to expand jurisdiction through use of force and other forms of coercion, including across the Taiwan Strait, and the South China Sea, the Red Sea, and the Black Sea. We condemn China’s illicit, provocative, coercive and dangerous actions that seek unilaterally to alter the status quo in such a way as to risk undermining the stability of regions, including through land reclamations, and building of outposts, as well as their use for military purpose. In areas pending final delimitation, we underline the importance of coastal states refraining from unilateral actions that cause permanent physical change to the marine environment insofar as such actions jeopardize or hamper the reaching of the final agreement, as well as the importance of making every effort to enter into provisional arrangements of a practical nature, in those areas. We condemn, as well, dangerous vessel maneuvers, the indiscriminate attacks against commercial vessels and other maritime actions that undermine maritime order based on the rule of law and international law. We reiterate that the award rendered by the Arbitral Tribunal on 12 July 2016 is a significant milestone, which is legally binding upon the parties to those proceedings and a useful basis for peacefully resolving disputes between the parties. We reaffirm that our basic policies on Taiwan remain unchanged and emphasize the importance of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait as indispensable to international security and prosperity. We welcome the resumption of exports from Ukraine’s Black Sea ports. Freedom of navigation for commercial shipping in the Black Sea must be upheld.

    6. Attempts to Change the Status Quo by Force: We oppose unilateral attempts to change the status quo, in particular by force or coercion including in the East and South China Seas. We undertake to implement means through which to track systematically and report on attempts to change the status quo by force and by the establishment of new geographical facts, including through coercive and dangerous actions on the oceans and seas that might threaten regional and international peace and security.

    7. Protecting Critical Maritime and Undersea Infrastructure: We are seized of the fact that vital energy and telecommunications infrastructure under the oceans and seas connects our economies and is vital to our prosperity. We recall the G7 Joint Statement on Cable Connectivity for Secure and Resilient Digital Communications Networks (2024) and the New York Joint Statement on the Security and Resilience of Undersea Cables in a Globally Digitalized World (2024). We share a growing concern that undersea communications cables, subsea interconnectors and other critical undersea infrastructure have been subject to critical damage through sabotage, poor seamanship or irresponsible behaviour which have resulted in potential internet or energy disruption in affected regions, delays in global data transmission, or compromised sensitive communications. We will enhance our cooperation with industry to mitigate risks, reduce bottlenecks to operational tasks while strengthening repair capacities in order to improve the overall resilience of critical undersea and maritime infrastructure. In this respect, we welcome the EU Action Plan on Cable Security adopted in February 2025 by the European Commission and the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy.

    8. Maritime Crime: Maritime crime, including piracy, armed robbery at sea, maritime arms trafficking and sanctions evasion, human trafficking, illegal drug trafficking and Illegal, Unreported, Unregulated (IUU) fishing, continues to impede maritime security, freedom of navigation, and our economy and prosperity. We have been working together to tackle these maritime crimes, but maritime illegal activities have extended into new areas, to become an urgent issue to be addressed. We welcome the G7 Action Plan to combat migrant smuggling adopted under Italy’s 2024 G7 Presidency.

    9. Protecting Freedom of Trade: In the past year, indiscriminate Houthi attacks in the Red Sea have endangered maritime security of vessels and their crews, disturbed international trade, and exposed neighboring countries to environmental hazards. Enabled by Iran’s military, financial, and intelligence support, these illegal attacks have also contributed to increased tension in the Middle East and Yemen, with severe repercussions on the intra-Yemeni peace process. The vessel “Galaxy Leader” seized by the Houthis must be released immediately. We appreciate the efforts of all those countries that have engaged to ensure freedom of navigation in the Red Sea, protecting crucial shipping lanes and helping to restore regular flows of trade through the Suez Canal connecting the Mediterranean Sea to the Indian and Pacific Oceans. In this regard, we commend the efforts of EU’s maritime operation “Aspides” and U.S.-led operation “Prosperity Guardian”.

    Safe Shipping and Supply Chain Security

    10. Curtailing Unsafe and Illicit Shipping Practices: The rise of unsafe and illicit shipping practices, including fraudulent registration and registries, poses a significant threat to global trade and environmental sustainability.  We are concerned that unsafe and illicit shipping imposes heavy costs on industry, governments and citizens. Russia’s ability to earn revenue has been sustained through its extensive effort to circumvent the G7+ oil price cap policy through its shadow fleet of often older, underinsured, and poorly maintained ships that routinely disable their automatic identification systems or engage in “spoofing” to avoid detection and circumvent international safety, environmental, and liability rules and standards. North Korea continues to pursue its nuclear and ballistic missile programmes and evade sanctions, particularly through its illicit maritime activities, including prohibited ship-to-ship transfers of petroleum and other UN-banned commodities. Through G7 coordination, we have exposed North Korea uses of “dark” vessels – those that engage in illicit activity – to circumvent United Nations Security Council mandated sanctions. Russia and North Korea are strengthening their economic relations including through maritime routes, such as the reported transfer of petroleum products from Russia to North Korea. Unregulated, “dark” vessels undertake IUU fishing, destroying marine habitats and depleting fish stocks, with negative impacts for biodiversity and food security. Unregulated, inadequately insured “dark” vessels also pose a high risk of maritime accidents, including in fragile ecosystems such as the Arctic and Antarctic. We commit to strengthening our coordination, amongst the G7 and with other partners, to prevent the use of unregistered or fraudulently registered, uninsured and substandard vessels engaged in sanctions evasion, arms transfers, illegal fishing and illicit trade. We encourage relevant International Organizations to improve maritime domain awareness by expanding satellite-based vessel tracking and establishing comprehensive data records of the movement of individual ships and of ship-to-ship transfers, as a means of identifying and tracking illicit maritime activities. We are also committed to capacity building of the countries in the region in law enforcement and Maritime Domain Awareness.

    11. Shadow Fleet Task Force: We invite members of the Nordic-Baltic 8 (Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden), and possibly others, to join participating G7 members in a Shadow Fleet Task Force to enhance monitoring and detection and to otherwise constrain the use of shadow fleets engaged in illegal, unsafe or environmentally perilous activities, building on the work of others active in this area. The Task Force will constitute a response by the participating States to the call by the International Maritime Organization in its Resolution A.1192(33) of 6 December 2023 for Members States and all relevant stakeholders to promote actions to prevent illegal operations in the maritime sector by shadow fleets and their flag states, including illegal operations for the purposes of circumventing sanctions, evading compliance with safety or environmental regulations, avoiding insurance costs, or engaging in other illegal activities.

    12. Enhancing Maritime Supply Chain Resilience and Energy and Food Security: Maritime supply chains will continue to underpin the global economy, but these face a variety of threats, both present and future, stemming from both geopolitical tensions and environmental factors.  Maritime disruptions raise consumer costs, increase transit times, and can reduce demand in importing countries, which in turn means lower revenues and diminished competitiveness for producers in exporting countries. Such vulnerabilities in maritime transport can undermine energy and food security, particularly for developing nations reliant on stable shipping routes, including Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and Least Developed Countries (LDCs). We welcome maritime initiatives involving and supported by G7 partners intended to promote energy and food security, such as the Grain from Ukraine scheme, and the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific. We invite cooperation with the African Union (pursuant to Africa’s Integrated Maritime Strategy 2050) and other relevant International Organizations to identify best practices for enhancing maritime supply chain resilience and for safeguarding energy and food security, including in times of geopolitical crisis. 

    13. Promoting Safe and Resilient Ports and Strategic Waterways: Port ownership and operational control matter to national security, as foreign control or influence over critical port infrastructure can create vulnerabilities in trade, in defence and security, and in economic stability. Port resilience is also crucial to economic stability and global trade and yet ports face growing risks from environmental degradation, extreme weather events and geopolitical conflicts. Strengthening port security and modernizing infrastructure are essential to maintaining safe and efficient maritime trade. Ensuring that the ownership and management of strategic waterways and key maritime choke points are not vulnerable to undue influence by potential adversaries is also essential to national security. We underscore the importance of scrutiny of ownership structures and port management and resilience within our own national jurisdictions, including with regard to Information and Communications Technology (ICT) systems, to ensure that adversaries do not gain leverage over supply chains, military operations, or the flow of strategic resources. We will work with partners and with relevant International Organizations to encourage robust cybersecurity standards for port ICT infrastructure, to increase resilience against malicious cyber incidents on maritime logistical networks, to reduce monopolistic power over key supply chain nodes, to promote secure and transparent port ownership, to limit unsolicited or undue foreign influence over critical infrastructures and strategic waterways, and to otherwise encourage greater focus on such potential vulnerabilities.

    14. Unexploded Ordnance (UXO) at sea poses a significant hazard to the marine environment, to the safety of fishermen and other users of the maritime space, and to various marine economic activities. We commit to enhancing diplomatic efforts and to exchanging best practices among national authorities, relevant international and regional organizations, and relevant industry sectors to accelerate the clean-up of UXO from the seas and ocean.

    Sustainable Stewardship of Maritime Resources

    15. Strengthen Enforcement Against IUU Fishing: IUU fishing is a major contributor to declining fish stocks and to marine habitat destruction. It may account for a third of all fishing activity worldwide, at a cost to the global economy of more than US$23 billion per year and with negative consequences for fisheries as an enduring economic asset, including for developing countries. We welcome the Canadian-led Dark Vessel Detection System in Ecuador, Peru, Costa Rica, the Philippines, and members of the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) and would see value in replicating the model to support other partners whose fisheries are under threat from IUU fishing. We recognize that data sharing and transparency play a key role in this fight by exposing bad actors and that technological advances can support a robust Monitoring, Control and Surveillance and enforcement landscape. We encourage further progress in addressing IUU fishing, working with and through relevant International Organizations to establish and strengthen rules to sustainably manage fish stocks on the high seas and to improve the enforcement of these measures, including through the further development of detection technologies, aircraft patrols and high seas boarding and inspection of vessels, building upon the 2022 G7 Ocean Deal.

    16. We welcome the Third UN Ocean Conference, in Nice, France, from 9 to 13 June 2025.

    PARTNERSHIPS

    17. This G7 Maritime Security and Prosperity Declaration provides a framework for cooperation with non-G7 partners, including countries hosting major ports, large merchant fleets, or extensive flag registries as well as relevant regional and International Organizations, such as the International Maritime Organization and ASEAN. We would welcome robust cooperation with partners to take forward the goals set out in this Declaration, consistent with the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity, under the efforts of the G7 countries, including a free, open, prosperous and secure Indo-Pacific region, to build a free and open maritime order based on the rule of law, and of commitment to the sustainable development of the world’s maritime spaces.

    18. We welcome the cooperation on Coast Guard Functions, including the Global Coast Guard Forum hosted by Italy in 2025, as well as the Arctic Coast Guard Forum, which could also support the objectives of this Declaration.

    [14] March 2025

    Charlevoix, Canada

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: New supports will strengthen community firefighting capacity

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    The Community Emergency Preparedness Fund (CEPF) supports projects that strengthen the resilience of local governments and First Nations in responding to and preparing for disasters and climate change. This funding is administered through the Union of British Columbia Municipalities.

    Volunteer and composite fire departments, local governments and First Nations will receive more than $9 million from the CEPF as follows:

    100 Mile House – Structure Protection Unit Equipment
    Amount: $38,055

    Adams Lake Indian Band – Breathing apparatus purchase and training
    Amount: $40,000

    Alberni-Clayoquot Regional District – Protective equipment and training for the volunteer fire departments of the Alberni-Clayoquot Regional District
    Amount: $109,226

    Alert Bay – Fire department equipment and training
    Amount: $37,725

    Armstrong – Structural firefighting turnout gear and turnout gear dryer
    Amount: $40,000

    Ashcroft – Firefighter training
    Amount: $36,447

    Atlin Community Improvement District – Equipment upgrades and firefighter training
    Amount: $39,250

    Barriere – Fire department equipment and training
    Amount: $37,000

    Blue River Improvement District – Fire department equipment and training
    Amount: $24,709

    Bow Horn Bay Volunteer Fire Department – Replacement of bunker gear
    Amount: $40,000

    Bowen Island – Gear racking, pressure washer and personal protective equipment (PPE) dryer
    Amount: $40,000

    Bralorne Fire Protection Association – Fire protection equipment and wildland protective gear 
    Amount: $35,354

    Burns Lake – Structural protection equipment 
    Amount: $21,500

    Burton Community Association – Personal protective equipment 
    Amount: $40,000

    Capital Regional District – Personal protective equipment and fire equipment 
    Amount: $275,303

    Cariboo Regional District – Emergency response improvement project: Equipment and training
    Amount: $501,321

    Central Coast Regional District – Fire training 
    Amount: $80,000

    Central Kootenay Regional District – Equipment and training 
    Amount: $503,802

    Central Okanagan Regional District – Equipment upgrades 
    Amount: $88,661

    Cherry Creek Improvement District – Personal protective equipment and operational equipment
    Amount: $40,000

    Chetwynd – Equipment upgrades
    Amount: $39,829

    Chimney and Felker Lakes Volunteer Fire Department – Firefighter training, personal protective equipment and firefighting equipment upgrades 
    Amount: $39,996

    Clearwater – Fire department training props and equipment 
    Amount: $40,000

    Cluculz Lake Volunteer Fire Department – Training and equipment 
    Amount: $40,000

    Columbia Shuswap Regional District – Health, safety and personal protective equipment
    Amount: $559,280

    Comox Valley Regional District (CVRD) – CVRD Fire Departments: Equipment and training
    Amount: $275,200

    Cook’s Ferry Indian Band – Cook’s Ferry Fire and Emergency Services: Equipment and personal protective equipment  
    Amount: $40,000

    Cortes Island Fire Fighting Association – Wildfire-response capacity building
    Amount: $24,554

    Cowichan Tribes – Personal protective equipment 
    Amount: $40,000

    Cowichan Valley Regional District – Cowichan Valley Fire Department 2024 Grant Project for six volunteer- and one society-run regional fire departments: Equipment and personal protective equipment     
    Amount: $271,015

    Cranberry Improvement District – New and replacement equipment 
    Amount: $40,000

    Cumberland – Phase 3 training ground for Cumberland Fire Rescue
    Amount: $40,000

    Deep Bay Improvement District – Equipment and training 
    Amount: $40,000

    Duncan – Interior and exterior operations training 
    Amount: $40,000

    East Kootenay Regional District – 2024 Regional District of East Kootenay Rural Fire Services: Equipment, training and personal protective equipment  
    Amount: $308,141

    Edgewood Volunteer Fire Department – Personal protective equipment, and equipment upgrades and replacements 
    Amount: $28,562

    Elkford – Equipment modernization  
    Amount: $40,000

    Enderby – Purchase of self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) 
    Amount: $39,880

    Errington Volunteer Fire Department – Decontamination washing machine and dryer
    Amount: $38,452

    Erris Volunteer Fire Association – SCBA purchase 
    Amount: $40,000

    Extension Volunteer Fire Department – Personal protective equipment upgrade and replacement 
    Amount: $39,520

    Fernie – Fire training and equipment replacement 
    Amount: $40,000

    Fraser Lake – Breathing apparatuses 
    Amount: $39,714

    Fraser Valley Regional District – Firefighting equipment 
    Amount: $253,740

    Fraser-Fort George Regional District – Emergency-response equipment
    Amount: $511,600

    Gabriola Fire Protection Improvement District – Live fire-training facility upgrades 
    Amount: $40,000

    Gold River – SCBA upgrades 
    Amount: $40,000

    Granisle – Fire department training and equipment upgrades  
    Amount: $40,000

    Greeny Lake Volunteer Fire Department – Update equipment and training 
    Amount: $33,813

    Hayes Creek Firefighters’ Association – Equipment improvements 
    Amount: $13,548

    Heiltsuk Nation – Fire department equipment supply 
    Amount: $40,000

    Highlands – Digital fire-training system  
    Amount: $34,812

    Hope – Structure protection equipment and training
    Amount: $40,000

    Houston – Protective clothing and equipment
    Amount: $40,000

    Hudson’s Hope – Replacement fire hose and SCBA cylinders 
    Amount: $37,485

    Invermere – Firefighter survival training and equipment 
    Amount: $40,000

    Iskut First Nation – Kluachon emergency services equipment upgrade 
    Amount: $37,115

    Kent – Personal protective equipment and pump training 
    Amount: $40,000

    Kootenay-Boundary Regional District – Fire Department Grant: Equipment, training and live fire training facility upgrade 
    Amount: $134,955

    Ladysmith – Turnout gear decontamination cleaning equipment 
    Amount: $33,737

    Lake Country – New and replacement thermal imaging cameras 
    Amount: $40,000

    Lake Cowichan – Equipment and training
    Amount: $34,495

    Mackenzie – Live fire training 
    Amount: $39,350

    Masset – Fire safety gear, equipment renewal and training upgrade 
    Amount: $39,364

    McLeese Lake Volunteer Fire Department – Fire department equipment
    Amount: $12,847

    Merritt – Upgrading equipment: Breathing air compressor
    Amount: $40,000

    Metchosin – Hose and equipment upgrades and replacement 
    Amount: $39,635

    Midway – Training facility improvements 
    Amount: $24,837

    Mill Bay Fire Protection District – Turnout gear replacement
    Amount: $39,694

    Mount Waddington Regional District – Training and equipment improvements
    Amount: $157,095

    Mountain Fire Protection District – Updating equipment and training  
    Amount: $40,000

    Nakusp – Equipment upgrades 
    Amount: $40,000

    Nanaimo Regional District – Equipment for regional training facility and training props 
    Amount: $200,000

    Nelson – Personal protective equipment and Fire Officer II training
    Amount: $39,864

    North Cedar Improvement District – FireSmart structure protection equipment and personal protective equipment 
    Amount: $40,000

    North Coast Regional District – Personal protective equipment 
    Amount: $40,000

    North Cowichan – Wildland firefighting equipment 
    Amount: $11,050

    North Okanagan Regional District – Equipment and Training
    Amount: $120,000

    North Saanich – Equipment upgrade 
    Amount: $23,048

    Okanagan-Similkameen Regional District – Volunteer Fire Department Enhancement Project: Equipment and training 
    Amount: $274,414

    Oliver – Enhancing the Oliver Fire Department: Equipment and training 
    Amount: $40,000

    Parksville – Decontamination equipment 
    Amount: $40,000

    Paul Lake Community Association – Paul Lake Community Fire and Emergency Preparedness and Resiliency: Equipment and training 
    Amount: $24,976

    Peachland – Wildland protective clothing and firefighting equipment
    Amount: $39,040

    Pemberton – Turnout gear for firefighters
    Amount: $37,291

    Pender Harbour Fire Protection District – Structure fire and wildfire essential equipment upgrade and training 
    Amount: $39,470

    Pinantan Lake Fire Association – Structural protection equipment
    Amount: $40,000

    Port Alice – SCBAs
    Amount: $40,000

    Port Edward – Fire service equipment  
    Amount: $40,000

    Port Hardy – Structure firefighter training
    Amount: $40,000

    Pouce Coupe – Communication upgrade  
    Amount: $31,821

    Princeton – PPE, Equipment and training
    Amount: $38,500

    qathet Regional District (Powell River) – The qathet Regional Districts’ Volunteer Fire Department Equipment 2024 intake: Equipment and training 
    Amount: $160,000

    Quadra Island Fire Department – Wildland response preparedness training
    Amount: $21,336

    Radium Hot Springs – Wildland personal protective equipment 
    Amount: $28,007

    Salmon Arm – Equipment and training
    Amount: $40,000

    Saturna Island Fire Protection Society – Breathing air compressor replacement 
    Amount: $39,844

    Savona Improvement District – Equipment upgrade 
    Amount: $40,000

    Sayward – Fire department equipment
    Amount: $39,870

    Seabird Island Band – Equipment and tools 
    Amount: $40,000

    Sechelt Fire Protection District – Turnout gear replacement 
    Amount: $40,000

    Ships Point Improvement District – Structure protection equipment  
    Amount: $37,739

    Sicamous – Equipment and training  
    Amount: $40,000

    Sidney – Personal protective equipment, training and fire suppression equipment
    Amount: $40,000

    Skeetchestn Indian Band – Fire department equipment 
    Amount: $40,000

    Skwláx te Secwepemcúl?ecw (Little Shuswap Lake) – New Structural Protection Unit 
    Amount: $36,245

    Smithers – Radio communications upgrade
    Amount: $40,000

    SnPink’tn (Penticton Indian Band) – Expanding fire rescue capabilities 
    Amount: $34,150

    Sooke – CEPF Funding for Volunteer and Composite Departments: Hoses and racks 
    Amount: $28,351

    Southside Volunteer Fire Department – Radio equipment and training 
    Amount: $14,650

    Spences Bridge Improvement District – Fire department equipment
    Amount: $40,000

    Squamish-Lillooet Regional District – Regional District Fire Services Modernization: Training and equipment 
    Amount: $183,025

    Stswecem’c Xgat’tem First Nation (Canoe Creek) – Firefighting equipment
    Amount: $17,437

    Summerland – Structure firefighting equipment  
    Amount: $39,185

    Sun Peaks – 2024 Sun Peaks Fire Rescue Health and Safety Improvement Project 
    Amount: $39,937

    Tahsis – Tahsis Volunteer Fire Department – BC Structure Firefighter Minimum Training Standards Supplies 
    Amount: $40,000

    Taylor – Taylor Fire Rescue 2025: Training and equipment 
    Amount: $30,690

    Telkwa – Equipment and gear  
    Amount: $40,000

    Thetis Island Improvement District – Fire equipment update 
    Amount: $27,356

    Thompson-Nicola Regional District – Fire department equipment and training
    Amount: $360,000

    Tl’azt’en Nation – Project “Be Prepared!”: Equipment
    Amount: $38,463

    Tla’amin Nation (Sliammon) – Personal protective equipment 
    Amount: $35,620

    Tofino – Firefighter personal protective equipment and other firefighting equipment replacement 
    Amount: $38,866

    Tomslake and District Volunteer Fire Department – Structure Protection Initiative: Hoses, Water Tanks, Sprinklers and Wildland Turnout Gear
    Amount: $24,167

    Tsay Keh Dene Nation – Outfitting firetruck  
    Amount: $19,199

    Ucluelet – Fire Rescue Turnout Gear and Equipment
    Amount: $38,711

    Vanderhoof – Hands-on training and personal protective equipment renewal 
    Amount: $40,000

    View Royal – Wildfire firefighting portable pump equipment 
    Amount: $25,100

    Watch Lake – North Green Lake Volunteer Fire Department: Turnout gear replacement, safety equipment upgrades and training programs 
    Amount: $39,800

    Williams Lake – Structural turnout gear cleaning system 
    Amount: $37,064

    Williams Lake First Nation – Fire Prevention and Interface Response Supports: Turnout gear replacement, mandatory safety equipment upgrades and prescribed training programs  
    Amount: $11,415

    Witset First Nation (Moricetown) – Fire department gear and training
    Amount: $40,000

    Yaq?it ?a·knuq?i ‘it (Tobacco Plains) – Fire department equipment and training
    Amount: $40,000

    Zeballos – Zeballos Volunteer Fire Department Capacity Enhancement: Training and personal protective equipment
    Amount: $39,951

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Changes to Fees and Charges in 2025-26

    Source: Government of Canada regional news



  • MIL-OSI Security: New White Paper on the Standardization of the Government Specialist Position from Chief FOIA Officers Council Committee on Cross-Agency Collaboration and Innovation

    Source: United States Department of Justice

    A white paper issued by the Chief FOIA Officer (CFO) Council Committee on Cross-Agency Collaboration and Innovation (COCACI) has been published on FOIA.gov.  The white paper, written by COCACI’s Working Group for Standardizing the Government Information Specialist (GIS) Position (Working Group), presents its findings and recommendations on ways to standardize the GIS job series.

    The Working Group surveyed FOIA practitioners and agency executives about four key areas: work demographics, FOIA experience, workplace environment, and career plan.  Taking the data from this research, the Working Group held conversations with FOIA leadership at several federal agencies, with the goal of identifying existing approaches in improving the professionalization and standardization of qualifications for FOIA professionals and determining the transferability of these approaches to the GIS job series. Additionally, the Working Group aimed to understand what made a FOIA program successful, what challenges were faced by FOIA programs, and how a cross-agency approach could improve a FOIA, and therefore GIS, professional’s career.

    The Working Group identified a series of trends in leadership support, career development, the hiring landscape, and retention.  After analyzing its data, the Working Group developed five recommendations to aid in the standardization of the job series:

    1. Promote GIS careers and create opportunities to raise career-field awareness;
    2. Implement both in-agency and cross-agency GIS career support;
    3. Cultivate employee engagement and transparency to create a more desirable work environment;
    4. Create clear career advancement opportunities and re-examine the job series; and
    5. Consider a certification program to enhance the job series.

    Agency FOIA professionals, agency FOIA leadership, GIS career professionals, and members of the public are encouraged to review this white paper and consider how its findings and recommendations could benefit the GIS job series and agency FOIA programs.

    For additional information about the CFO Council’s work, visit the Council page on FOIA.gov.  For additional information on the Working Group for Standardizing the GIS Position, review the Working Group’s charter on COCACI’s FOIA.gov page. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Murray, Former NOAA Administrator and WA State NOAA Employees Fired for No Reason Slam Trump & Elon’s Destructive Mass Layoffs at NOAA

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray
    ICYMI: Senator Murray Statement on Mass Layoffs Beginning at NOAA
    WA state NOAA employee fired for no reason by Trump & Elon: “I’m here because I care. I care about the people and communities that are impacted by reduced or closed fisheries that my work supported. I care about the devastating effects a diminished NOAA may have on Washingtonians and Americans across our country… I care because I am a grandpa and a fisherman, and I want to ensure these resources are perpetuated for the generations following me.”
    ***WATCH HERE, DOWNLOAD VIDEO HERE***
    Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, held a virtual press conference with former National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Administrator Dr. Rick Spinrad, and former NOAA employees in Washington state who were recently fired through no fault of their own and with zero justification as part of Trump and Elon Musk’s unprecedented assault on the federal workforce. About 650 NOAA employees have already been dismissed for no reason by Trump and Elon, with another round of job cuts targeting more than 1,000 additional employees expected.
    Joining Senator Murray for today’s press conference were: former NOAA Administrator Dr. Rick Spinrad, Dr. Rebecca Howard, former Research Fish Biologist at the Alaska Fisheries Science Center in Seattle; Dennis Jaszka, former NOAA Investigative Support Technician for Office of Law Enforcement for the Alaska Division based in Seattle; and Mark Baltzell of Olympia, a former Fisheries Management Specialist at the Sustainable Fisheries Division in the Anadromous Harvest Management Branch at NOAA.
    “NOAA scientists play a crucial role protecting our waters, oceans, and our fisheries. The Puget Sound, the Columbia River, they all rely on NOAA. In Washington state, salmon are not just a pillar of our economy—and of the seafood industry that is so prominent in our state—it is also a way of life for our communities, for our tribes, and it’s part of our state identity, So NOAA’s work could not be more important when it comes to that. I think we all know that we can take the weather for granted, we can take our fish and water for granted. But this work is make or break—not just for Washington state, but for our entire country. So, it is beyond alarming to me that right now, Donald Trump and Elon Musk are choosing ‘break’ and taking a wrecking ball to NOAA offices. They are firing public servants they’re firing our experts, they’re closing buildings, like at Port Angeles, and they’re throwing a lot of critical work into jeopardy,” Senator Murray said on today’s press call. “About half of the National Weather Service offices were already understaffed, and then came this hiring freeze and then came the mass firings—and that was just round one. Musk and Trump have already fired 650 NOAA workers—including dozens of people right here in Washington state—with no rhyme or reason, with no clue or concern how it will seriously harm our economy and our communities. And now we are hearing that NOAA intends to lay off another 10 percent of its workforce—that is more than a thousand critical jobs Trump and Elon are putting on the chopping block.”
    NOAA has a major footprint in Washington state, employing over 700 people—and communities across Washington state rely on the agency’s work, from providing storm warnings and weather forecasts to protecting and restoring marine resources that are essential to our state’s economy and culture. Senator Murray has been outspoken in calling attention to how Trump and Elon’s indiscriminate mass layoffs are hurting people across the country and will undermine services Americans everywhere rely on.
    “The firings, facilities closures, and program terminations currently ongoing by this Administration are misguided, ill-informed, often illegal, and just plain stupid actions.  They will also cause great harm. In short, this is ‘All cost, no benefit,’” said Dr. Rick Spinrad, a former NOAA Administrator, who abruptly lost his job because of the Trump administration’s mass firings.
    “Our branch is small but mighty. Our work is responsible for regulatory oversight of salmon and steelhead fisheries occurring in the EEZ off the West Coast, the Columbia River, and Puget Sound. An additional significant portion of our work involves implementing the relevant chapters Pacific Salmon Treaty. The work that my branch conducts enables hundreds of millions in economic activity around salmon fisheries coast-wide,” said Mark Baltzell from Olympia, who worked as a Fisheries Management Specialist at the Sustainable Fisheries Division in the Anadromous Harvest Management Branch, before he was abruptly fired for no reason by Trump and Elon on February 27th and given only 68 minutes to pack his office and leave. “I’m here because I care. I care about the people and communities that are impacted by reduced or closed fisheries that my work supported. I care about the devastating effects a diminished NOAA may have on Washingtonians and Americans across our country. I care about the tens of millions of dollars in Federal Money that is funneled through NOAA for salmon recovery, monitoring, hatchery improvements, and supporting fisheries that is in danger of going away. I care because I was in an Agency loaded with people who care and were devoted because they believed in the science and the mission. I care because I am a grandpa and a fisherman, and I want to ensure these resources are perpetuated for the generations following me. Gutting NOAA and the federal government puts all those things that I care about at risk.”
    “At the Alaska Fisheries Science Center, I was part of the groundfish bottom trawl survey team. This meant I was involved in the work needed to assess Alaska’s populations of shellfish and groundfish, which are fish that live near the seafloor like pollock, cod, and flatfish. These fish make up not only some of the largest and most valuable fisheries in the country, but also the world. The team I was part of was in the midst of preparing for the two bottom trawl surveys that are expected to happen this summer, as they have for the last four decades. We were busy staffing surveys, preparing scientific equipment and software, setting up staff and volunteer trainings, and making sure we have necessary supplies. This requires an immense amount of time and effort, and is done by a team that was very understaffed and stretched thin even before I was fired. Several NOAA employees who were supposed to participate in the survey were fired, including myself, making it even more challenging to find the necessary staff,” said Dr. Rebecca Howard, former Research Fish Biologist at the Alaska Fisheries Science Center in Seattle, who was fired from her dream job with NOAA for no reason by Trump and Elon on February 27. “If more employees from the bottom trawl teams retire or are fired in upcoming reductions in force, the surveys will be extremely difficult to pull off, if not impossible. And, we have recent examples of how important these kinds of data are. In 2020, the Bering Sea bottom trawl survey did not happen due to the Covid-19 pandemic. This led to a missing year of data and critically, missing information on the snow crab population. As many of you know, the snow crab fishery collapsed in 2021 and consequently, we don’t have a good idea of what their population looked like in 2020. We need these types of data to know how many fish and crabs we can catch each year, where those populations are going as the oceans changes, and to keep track of environmental trends. Firing people like me will make it incredibly hard for NOAA Fisheries to fulfill its mission and provide the best available science.”
    “The work I did was essential to Office of Law Enforcement’s efforts to ensure the safety of fisheries observers. While the Alaska Division is spread throughout coastal Alaska, the observer operations staff is mostly located in Seattle. Therefore, one of my main roles was to be the point of contact for enforcement officers. Having an enforcement representative in Seattle is essential to connect people and ensure fisheries observers are familiar with the enforcement arm of NMFS,” said Dennis Jaszka, former NOAA Investigative Support Technician for Office of Law Enforcement for the Alaska Division based in Seattle, who was with NOAA for 26 years before being abruptly fired by Trump and Elon as part of their massive indiscriminate staffing cuts. “The rapport between Alaska Division, the North Pacific Observers, and the Observer support staff is lauded every year as being the gold standard of partnerships between an enforcement division and a scientific division. It was an honor to play such a role in this partnership. But practically speaking, having someone in that position who is familiar with both observer and enforcement operations, is simply the most efficient way to do things. Without a person to represent and connect law enforcement to the observers in Seattle, NMFS loses an opportunity to continue building rapport with observers. Support staff will have no contact with an individual who can answer compliance-related questions. This will result in an excess of complaints being filed. Additionally, the task of reviewing, vetting, and sending documents falls on others who already have a high workload. The whole point of my job was to streamline and educate people in a very proactive way.”
    Senator Murray’s full remarks from today’s press conference are below and video is HERE:
    “Thank you all for joining me to talk about something people actually rely on every day, they take for granted, and they may not even know the name of—and that is NOAA. NOAA does work that is crucial to our safety, to our economy, and to our everyday lives.
    “People all across the state of Washington count on the National Weather Service, which is at NOAA, when you watch the weather forecast on the news and decide whether it’s a great week for hiking or you check the weather app on your phone and grab your umbrella in Seattle—you are relying on NOAA.
    “Farmers in Yakima Valley rely on NOAA for seasonal outlooks for crop advice—which means our groceries actually rely on it too. When pilots take off from Sea-Tac airport, or boats head out from our ports, they are consulting NOAA data to prepare for a safe journey.
    “When there is a dangerous storm coming, a blizzard, or flooding, or a tsunami, or high winds, local officials and disaster experts use NOAA’s data to help issue public safety guidance, to protect property, and most importantly—to save lives.
    “NOAA is also tracking data that is crucial to understanding climate change and showing us how serious this threat is. When we warn that 2024 was the hottest year on record—it’s NOAA that tracks that data so you can know that and people can raise the alarm.
    “NOAA scientists also play a crucial role protecting our waters, oceans, and our fisheries. The Puget Sound, the Columbia River, they all rely on NOAA. In Washington state, salmon are not just a pillar of our economy—and of the seafood industry that is so prominent in our state—it is also a way of life for our communities, for our tribes, and it’s part of our state identity—so NOAA’s work could not be more important when it comes to that.
    “I think we all know that we can take the weather for granted, we can take our fish and water for granted. But this work is make or break—not just for Washington state, but for our entire country. So, it is beyond alarming to me that right now, Donald Trump and Elon Musk are choosing ‘break’ and taking a wrecking ball to NOAA offices.
    “They are firing public servants they’re firing our experts, they’re closing buildings, like at Port Angeles, and they’re throwing a lot of critical work into jeopardy.
    “About half of the National Weather Service offices were already understaffed, and then came this hiring freeze and then came the mass firings—and that was just round one.
    “Musk and Trump have already fired 650 NOAA workers—including dozens of people right here in Washington state—with no rhyme or reason, with no clue or concern how it will seriously harm our economy and our communities.
    “And now we are hearing that NOAA intends to lay off another 10 percent of its workforce—that is more than a thousand critical jobs Trump and Elon are putting on the chopping block.
    “Meanwhile—the problems this has already caused are already mounting. NOAA has already had to stop releasing weather balloons due to some staff shortages.
    “Here in Washington state, I have heard from fired NOAA employees who worked to support Tribal fish and infrastructure projects, another was an engineering technician who worked to make sure that our radar locations and our forecast offices could produce the data that we all need. Others were fired that worked to educate the public about our coast at the Olympic Coast National Marine Sanctuary in Port Angeles—gone.
    “A NOAA employee of the year—someone who helped divert orcas from an oil spill off San Juan Island a few years ago—was fired as a result of the fact that she had been promoted in the last year.
    “And that is just the tip of the iceberg Trump and Musk are steering us into, as you will hear from the people on this call, who did really important work for our country only to have the rug pulled out from under them by a couple of billionaires without a clue. 
    “So, I want to again say personally thank you to each one of you. I am really grateful to your years of public service, what you have done for all of us, and I so appreciate you coming here today.
    “I know you’re all dealing with personal things as well as a result of being laid off—but I appreciate you coming here today to send one more forecast. And that is a forecast that warns a dark cloud is coming if Trump and Musk don’t reverse this course and reverse the unthinkable damage they are doing to NOAA.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Reverend Warnock Announces “NO” Vote on Dangerous Government Funding Legislation

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock – Georgia

    Senator Reverend Warnock Announces “NO” Vote on Dangerous Government Funding Legislation

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA) released the following statement on his intention to vote “NO” on the immensely harmful Continuing Resolution. This vote comes after Washington Republicans halted bipartisan negotiations and left two terrible options, both of which would cause pain for the people of Georgia.
    “This whole conversation is Washington at its worst. Instead of working together to actually improve people’s lives, craven politicians shut the door on bipartisan conversation and reemerged with an ultimatum: vote for a partisan government funding package or let the government shut down. Make no mistake, this government funding bill is bad policy: it would spike grocery prices, cut investments in education and health care, and defund care for servicemembers exposed to burn pits. More troubling, this legislation would give the President additional unchecked power to stifle Georgia’s economy.”  
    “I do not want to see a government shut down, but passing this legislation would cause pain to millions of Georgians. I will be voting “NO” on the Continuing Resolution.” 
    This continuing resolution would:
    Defund the PACT Act, which provides critical care for veterans exposed to burn pits and other toxic substances.
    Cut $27 million from health inspectors working to address the avian flu outbreak, which would continue to spike the price of eggs.
    Omit standard Congressional directives outlining how agencies should spend tax payer dollars, giving the President unchecked spending power to hurt Georgians.
    With this new power, the President could cut renewable energy investments, devastating Georgia’s advanced manufacturing economy or the President could choose which Army Corps of Engineers projects to fund, potentially halting the expansion of the Port of Savannah.

    Eliminate $130 million in funding, agreed to on a bipartisan basis in the draft Senate funding bill, for projects  in every corner of Georgia, including construction of new housing in LaGrange and Savannah, clean drinking water improvements in Dade County and Wrens, a new generator for a rural hospital in Appling County, improvements to Abraham Baldwin College’s nursing program, and much more.
    Cut nearly $1 billion from medical research on health conditions impacting service members and their families.
    Disrupts hurricane recovery efforts for South Georgians, who are still reeling from Hurricane Helene.
    Shuts off rental assistance for rural Georgians.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Q&A: Be The One

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley

    Q: What is “Be The One” campaign all about?

    A: This grassroots effort raises public awareness about veteran suicide and facilitates training and prevention strategies using one-on-one connections with at-risk veterans in local communities across the country. The nationwide outreach is coordinated by the American Legion, the patriotic veterans organization with a membership of more than 1.6 million individuals and local posts in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, France, Latin America and the Philippines. The nonprofit organization will observe its 106th birthday on March 15, celebrating the first caucus of the American Legion held in Paris, France after World War I. The 66th Congress issued a national charter for the veterans-led group on September 16, 1919. Throughout its history, the member-based veterans organization seeks to help fellow veterans reintegrate to civilian life and serves as a resource for community-based services for those seeking employment, education, health care, housing, disaster assistance and more. Since its founding, improving access to education, disability benefits and mental health services have helped marshal legislative victories and improve the quality of life for veterans. A tenet of its founding charter is to “cement the ties and comradeship born of service.” That mission is manifested in the Be The One campaign currently underway to stop veteran suicide. Through its grassroots system of Buddy Checks and efforts to train members for its Be The One QPR (question, persuade and refer) Teams, the American Legion of Iowa is working to expand its suicide prevention services at the post level and raise public awareness in local communities.

    In February, I met with Iowa leaders representing the American Legion, and I was impressed to learn more about this community outreach program. Making personal connections can mean the difference between life and death for veterans suffering from loneliness, despair or depression. Raising public awareness will help alert neighbors to be mindful of warning signs to strengthen suicide prevention for hometown heroes in our veterans communities. I appreciate the advocacy of our veterans organizations and will continue working with them on behalf of those who answered the call to serve in uniform and those currently serving in the Armed Forces.

    Q: What efforts have you pushed in Congress to lower veterans suicide?

    A: Tragically, this issue hits close to home for too many Iowa families. According to the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), suicide death rates among Iowa veterans is significantly higher than the rates among the nation’s general population. As Iowa’s U.S. Senator, I’ve worked for decades to raise public awareness, conduct rigorous oversight to root out shortcomings at the VA and implement comprehensive suicide prevention reforms to improve mental health services for our nation’s veterans. Years ago, alongside former Sen. Tom Harkin, we steered bipartisan legislation into law named after a young Iowan named Josh Omvig from Grundy Center who died by suicide after returning home from duty in Iraq. Our bill developed a peer support program tapping veterans as volunteer peer counselors. Building on that legislative victory on behalf of veterans, I also supported the Clay Hunt Suicide Prevention for American Veterans Act and co-sponsored legislation to help reduce backlog appeals to the Veterans Benefits Administration and introduced legislation to address the increase in suicide among female veterans. I’ve worked to expand services for veterans experiencing Post-Traumatic Stress Disorders and who sustained Traumatic Brain Injuries in the line of duty and teamed up with Sen. Amy Klobuchar to give veterans health facilities better tools to recruit well-trained health professionals, particularly for mental health care. Sen. Joni Ernst and I have pushed the VA to address wait times for mental health appointments, as well. In addition, I co-sponsored legislation that improved the responsiveness and performance of the Veterans Crisis Line. In his first term, President Trump signed into law the three-digit number to simplify access to this confidential, 24/7, lifesaving tool for Americans experiencing a mental health emergency. I encourage veterans and their families to dial 9-8-8 in times of crisis for immediate access to lifesaving support from trained professionals.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hickenlooper, Crapo Reintroduce Bipartisan Bill to Establish Space National Guard

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Colorado John Hickenlooper
    Legislation would move space-related Air and Army National Guard members under Space Force
    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senators John Hickenlooper and Mike Crapo reintroduced the Space Guard Establishment Act to create a Space National Guard, incorporating current Air National Guard and Army National Guard members performing space-related duties within the Space Force command structure.
     “A dedicated Space Force reserve component will make sure our National Guard space experts have a clear path to continue their service to community and country,” said Hickenlooper. “It’s a win-win for service members and our leadership in space!”
    “Guardsmen and Reservists are often highly specialized and trained individuals tasked with combatting significant threats from global threats such as China and Russia, and those who work on our space capabilities are no different,” said Crapo. “Establishing a Space National Guard will better prepare and streamline the work of our existing space personnel to maintain readiness to respond to and thwart attacks from our adversaries.”
    When the Space Force was established in 2019, active-duty service members responsible for space missions were moved out of the Air Force and placed under the authority of the Space Force. No corresponding change was made to ensure that National Guard members working on space also fall under Space Force authority. The proposed legislation would correct this organizational inconsistency.
    “Air National Guard fighter wings operate at 1/3rd the cost of their active-duty counterparts but still provide the same ‘fight-tonight’ capability. By acting as a retention net for talent exiting active duty and serving as a cost-effective model to both develop and retain fighter pilots, the Air National Guard presents the nation with an unrivaled value proposition. Throw in the secondary uses of Air Guardsman domestically such as wildfire mitigation, homeland airspace defense, and manpower for civil support all for a fraction of the cost of an active-duty Wing; the Air Guard’s value proposition truly is unparallelled. By providing 30% of the fighter force, for 1/3rd the cost, Air National Guard fighter wings operate as a shining example of efficient and effective use of taxpayer dollars. It’s simple, we provide more for less, without sacrificing capability,” said Major General Clellan.
    The Department of the Air Force, Space Force, and the National Guard Bureau have already developed a plan to establish a Space National Guard, but that plan has yet to be implemented. There are more than 1,000 National Guard members performing space-related duties from within the Air National Guard. However, organizational problems consistently arise now that all other space service members fall under the Space Force.
    A dedicated National Guard for the Space Force would help talented active-duty Space Force personnel transition to civilian careers, ensuring they are able to continue serving their country as well as their states. This bill would also streamline funding, and allow for better implementation of the mobilization processes, inspection systems, and policies and culture of the Space Force.
    The bill would override Legislative Proposal (LP) 480, which moved Air National Guard units with space missions into the U.S. Space Force without obtaining a governor’s consent prior to the transfer.
    Hickenlooper led 124 members of Congress in a bipartisan letter urging the House and Senate Armed Services Committees to adopt language in the fiscal year 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) that would preserve the authority of governors to oversee National Guard forces within their states. He also led another letter with 85 other members of Congress opposing the inclusion of LP 480 in the NDAA and joined in support of the National Governors Association Council of Governors calling on the Department of Defense to retract LP 480. In addition, Hickenlooper led 31 of his colleagues in submitting an amendment to the NDAA to permit the transfer only with gubernatorial approval. However, the amendment was not included in the final package for the Senate bill and did not have the opportunity for floor consideration.
    The Space Guard Establishment Act is supported by the National Guard Association of the United States (NGAUS) and the Enlisted Association of the National Guard of the United States (EANGUS).
    Representatives Crow and Boebert introduced companion legislation in the House.
    Full text of the bill is available HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: IAM Union Demands Increased Protections After United Airlines Passenger Assault at Dulles Airport

    Source: US GOIAM Union

    WASHINGTON, March 14, 2025 – Brian Bryant, International President of the 600,000-member IAM Union, and Richie Johnsen, IAM Air Transport Territory General Vice President, issued the following statement demanding stronger protections for airline customer service representatives following a violent assault on a United Airlines employee/IAM Union member at Washington Dulles International Airport yesterday: 

    “Our members deserve a workplace where they can focus on providing excellent customer service—not one where they fear being attacked by passengers. This latest incident is yet another example of the unacceptable rise in violence against frontline airline workers, and immediate action is needed to address it.

    “Across the country, airline customer service representatives continue to face physical assaults, including being punched, kicked, struck by thrown luggage, and having their clothing ripped. Some of these attacks have resulted in life-altering injuries.

    “These employees, who are already under immense stress as frontline workers, should not have to endure the constant threat of abuse and physical harm from unruly passengers. The increase in assaults—often involving intoxicated or belligerent individuals attempting to board aircraft—has created an unsafe work environment, and enforcement must be strengthened.

    “Despite the rise in violent incidents over the past several years, there have been minimal legal repercussions for offending passengers. IAM leaders argue that these incidents endanger airline customer service representatives and pose risks to the safety of flight crews and passengers.

    “Any disruptive behavior—whether due to intoxication, aggression, or other factors—introduces unnecessary risks to airline operations. The Department of Justice has the authority to take action, and we urge immediate enforcement of existing statutes to deter future assaults.

    “The IAM Union, representing over 100,000 airline workers, including customer service agents, ramp workers, aircraft technicians, stock clerks and flight attendants, calls on FAA to take action and implement the stronger safety standards that recently passed under the current FAA reauthorization. These standards include employee assault prevention and response plan standards. 

    “As long as these violent incidents persist, the IAM will not stop advocating for real enforcement of laws that protect airline employees.”

    The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) is one of North America’s largest and most diverse industrial trade unions, representing approximately 600,000 active and retired members in the aerospace, defense, airlines, railroad, transit, healthcare, automotive, and other industries across the United States and Canada.

    goIAM.org | @MachinistsUnion

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Josh Stein and Emergency Management Officials Encourage Western North Carolinians to Apply for Private Roads and Bridges Repair Program

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: Governor Josh Stein and Emergency Management Officials Encourage Western North Carolinians to Apply for Private Roads and Bridges Repair Program

    Governor Josh Stein and Emergency Management Officials Encourage Western North Carolinians to Apply for Private Roads and Bridges Repair Program
    lsaito

    Raleigh, NC

    Today, Governor Stein and emergency management officials are encouraging western North Carolinians to apply for assistance to repair private roads and bridges. Hurricane Helene caused unprecedented damages due to western North Carolina’s unique topography, including to more than 8,000 private roads and bridges. This program aims to assist property owners repair privately owned roads and bridges to reinstate access to emergency services, school buses, and other transportation.

    “Helene caused significant damage to over 8,000 private roads and bridges that often serve as the only access route for many ambulances, fire trucks, mail delivery vehicles, school buses, and for people to get to school, work, and run errands,” said Governor Josh Stein. “If left unrepaired, these critical private roads and bridges pose a substantial risk to public safety, including preventing repairs to people’s homes. If you need bridge or road repair, I encourage you to apply through this portal.”

    Many private roads, culverts, pipes, and bridges were damaged or destroyed following Hurricane Helene’s impacts across North Carolina. On January 2, 2025, the Governor issued Executive Order #2, which directed North Carolina Emergency Management to administer state assistance for the repair of private roads and bridges. The North Carolina Private Road and Bridge Program (NC-PRB) was established to provide that assistance.  

    To address these issues, Governor Stein tasked North Carolina Emergency Management to administer state assistance to repair private roads and bridges, and state officials are working closely with the legislature to advocate for additional funding. NCEM is working to contract services from vendors to facilitate these repairs. To help expedite this program, NCEM has established a webpage and interest form to allow property owners to express their interest in the program.

    Disaster survivors are encouraged to also contact the North Carolina Disaster Case Management Program if they need other resources and assistance with their recovery. More information is available at www.ncdps.gov/helene/dcm .

    ### 

    Mar 14, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: CLIK Announces Strategic Acquisition of Leading Nursing Care Competitor, Expanding Market Presence and Talent Pool

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Hong Kong, March 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Today, Click Holdings Limited (NASDAQ: CLIK) (“Click” or the “Company” or “we” or “our”), a provider of human resources (“HR”) solutions in Hong Kong specializing in Seniors Nursing Care, Logistics, and Professional HR services, today announced the 25% acquisition of a prominent nursing care competitor. The acquired company, which has over 10-year experience in serving Hong Kong seniors and maintains a talent pool of over 9,000 nursing personnel, significantly strengthens Click’s position in the healthcare HR sector.

    This strategic acquisition aligns with Click’s mission to enhance workforce solutions and bridge the growing demand for skilled nursing professionals. By integrating the acquired company’s extensive talent pool with Click’s existing database of over 11,000 registered personnel, Click will be able to provide a more robust and comprehensive HR solution for healthcare institutions and clients across Hong Kong and beyond.

    “This acquisition marks a transformative milestone for Click as we continue to expand our footprint in the nursing care HR sector,” said Mr. Chan, CEO of Click. “By combining our expertise, technology-driven approach, and an enlarged talent pool, we are poised to meet the increasing demand for high-quality nursing professionals. This move also reinforces our commitment to delivering innovative and reliable workforce solutions to our clients.”

    The acquisition is expected to generate significant synergies, optimizing operational efficiencies, and expanding service offerings. With the combined talent pool exceeding 19,000 registered personnel, Click will strengthen its ability to support healthcare providers with a larger, highly skilled workforce. Additionally, the acquisition will enable Click to further expand its market share in Home Seniors Nursing Services, aligning with its strategic vision of developing ‘Smart Home Nursing Solutions for Seniors.’

    With this strategic move, Click continues its growth trajectory and commitment to providing top-tier HR solutions across multiple industries. Further details regarding integration plans and long-term strategies will be announced in the coming months.

    About Click Holdings Limited

    We are a fast-growing human resources solutions provider based in Hong Kong, aiming to match our client’s human resources shortfall through our proprietary AI-empowered talent pool by one “click”. Our key businesses primarily include nursing solution (mainly seniors) services, logistics solution services and professional solution services.

    For more information, please visit https://clicksc.com.hk.

    Safe Harbor Statement

    Certain statements in this announcement are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties and are based on the Company’s current expectations and projections about future events that the Company believes may affect its financial condition, results of operations, business strategy and financial needs. Investors can identify these forward-looking statements by words or phrases such as “may,” “will,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “aim,” “estimate,” “intend,” “plan,” “believe,” “is/are likely to,” “potential,” “continue” or other similar expressions. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent occurring events or circumstances, or changes in its expectations, except as may be required by law. Although the Company believes that the expectations expressed in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, it cannot assure you that such expectations will turn out to be correct, and the Company cautions investors that actual results may differ materially from the anticipated results and encourages investors to review other factors that may affect its future results in the Company’s registration statement and other filings with the SEC, which are available for review at www.sec.gov.

    For enquiry, please contact:

    Click Holdings Limited
    Unit 709, 7/F., Ocean Centre
    5 Canton Road
    Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon
    Hong Kong
    Email: jack.wong@jfy.hk
    Phone: +852 2691 8200

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: OBSI 2024 Annual Report Released

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, March 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The Ombudsman for Banking Services and Investments (OBSI) released its 2024 Annual Report.

    In 2024, OBSI responded to 16,420 public inquiries – a 5% decrease from the record levels reached in 2023. OBSI opened 3,202 investigations in 2024, compared to last year’s record high of 3,050, representing a 5% year-over-year increase.

    “2024 was a pivotal and exciting year for OBSI,” said Sarah Bradley, Ombudsman and CEO, OBSI. “During the year, we responded to the highest ever levels of consumer demand for our services and we successfully prepared for our newly expanded role as the single ombudsman for banking in Canada.”

    Banking cases reached a new record high in 2024, increasing 7% year over year to 2,553, up from 2,388 cases in 2023. Investment cases decreased 2% year over year to 649, down from a record high of 662 cases in 2023.

    Banking case highlights

    In 2024, fraud continued to be the leading issue for consumer banking complaints, representing 38% of banking cases. Fraud investigations increased 2% year over year to 966 cases, up from 950 cases in 2023. Significant issues also included consumer complaints about service issues, representing 21% of all banking cases and a significant year-over-year increase. Cases related to credit card chargebacks made up 7% of all banking cases, while complaints related to product information disclosure or misrepresentation increased significantly year over year and represented 6% of all banking cases.

    The top banking product concerns focused on credit cards, e-transfers, and personal savings and chequing accounts. In 2024, we opened:

    • 756 credit card complaints, making up 30% of banking cases.
    • 607 e-transfer complaints, representing 24% of banking cases.
    • 305 personal saving and chequing complaints, accounting for 12% of banking cases.

    Investment case highlights

    Service issues and investment suitability were the leading issues for investors in 2024, with 110 cases opened each, representing 17% of investment cases respectively. Service issues increased 7% year over year, while suitability cases decreased 38% from last year. There were 93 cases related to fraud, representing 14% of all investment cases opened, a 5% decrease year over year. Notably, cases related to fee disclosure issues increased 76% from last year to 74 cases, accounting for 11% of investment cases.

    Common shares were the most complained-about investment product in 2024, with 231 cases opened representing 36% of all investment complaints, up from 27% in 2023. Mutual fund cases decreased 34% year over year to 197 cases, representing 30% of investment cases. Crypto assets remained the third most common product for complaints for investors this year, decreasing 11% to 89 cases, down from 100 cases in 2023.

    Low settlements at OBSI

    For the first time, the annual report includes aggregate data related to low settlements. OBSI’s recommendations are not binding, meaning that firms do not have to follow them. Over many years, we have seen that this can lead to firms offering less than what we recommend as fair in all the circumstances of the case, and consumers accepting these offers because they have no other options.

    In the period from 2019 to 2023, there were no banking cases with settlements below the amount we recommended and there were 33 investment cases with settlements below our recommended amount. In total, these 33 consumers received $1,147,470 less than we recommended.

    In our review of low settlements data we observed that low settlements are more likely as the value of our recommendations increases. While almost no consumers with recommendations under $10,000 experienced a low settlement, in cases with recommendations of over $100,000, half of consumers settled for less than we recommended, and these consumers received nearly 44% less than we recommended on average.

    In 2024, there were four banking cases with settlements below our recommended amount, although all were relatively low value. We saw improvement in the number of investment cases experiencing low settlements in 2024, with just two cases settling below our recommended amount. However, those two consumers received $289,268 less than we recommended as fair.

    Systemic issues and disclosures to regulators

    In 2024, OBSI continued its practice of communicating regularly with financial services regulators about systemic issues and issues affecting multiple consumers. During the year, a range of topics were reported and discussed at meetings with regulators that included:

    • Detailed aggregate data including:
      • Products, issues and outcomes details and trends
      • Specific (anonymized) case outcomes and summaries
      • Additional information relating to cases involving low settlements
    • Cryptocurrency fraud
    • Banking fraud
    • Information relevant to the effective transition to the single ECB framework for Canadian banks
    • CSA work towards development of a binding authority framework
    • Claims management company activity in Canada
    • Investment fund risk rating practices
    • OBSI’s loss calculation methodology

    In 2024, OBSI reported two specific systemic issues to regulators related to banking. The first report related to cases involving fraud, particularly e-transfer fraud and other digital fraud, impacting an unprecedented number of Canadian consumers. The second report related to the impact of a specific firm’s account opening policies and procedures on a class of vulnerable consumers.

    Canada’s Ombudsman for Banking Services and Investments (OBSI) is a national, independent, not-for-profit organization that helps resolve and reduce disputes between consumers and financial services firms in both official languages. OBSI is responsive to consumer inquiries, conducts fair and accessible investigations of unresolved disputes, and shares its knowledge and expertise with all stakeholders and the public. If a consumer has a complaint against an OBSI participating bank or investment firm that they are not able to resolve with the bank or firm, OBSI will investigate at no cost to the consumer. Where a complaint has merit, OBSI may recommend compensation up to a maximum of $350,000.

    For more information, please contact:
    Mark Wright, Director, Communications and Stakeholder Relations
    416-287-2877 ext.2225
    publicaffairs@obsi.ca

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Form 8.3 – [THRUVISION GROUP PLC – 13 03 2025] – (CGAML)

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    FORM 8.3

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

    1.        KEY INFORMATION

    (a)   Full name of discloser: CANACCORD GENUITY ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED (for Discretionary clients)
    (b)   Owner or controller of interests and short positions disclosed, if different from 1(a):
            The naming of nominee or vehicle companies is insufficient. For a trust, the trustee(s), settlor and beneficiaries must be named.    		 N/A
    (c)   Name of offeror/offeree in relation to whose relevant securities this form relates:
            Use a separate form for each offeror/offeree    		 THRUVISION GROUP PLC
    (d)   If an exempt fund manager connected with an offeror/offeree, state this and specify identity of offeror/offeree: N/A
    (e)   Date position held/dealing undertaken:
            For an opening position disclosure, state the latest practicable date prior to the disclosure    		 13 MARCH 2025
    (f)   In addition to the company in 1(c) above, is the discloser making disclosures in respect of any other party to the offer?
            If it is a cash offer or possible cash offer, state “N/A”    		 N/A

    2.        POSITIONS OF THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE

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

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

    Class of relevant security: 1p ORDINARY
      Interests Short positions
    Number % Number %
    (1)   Relevant securities owned and/or controlled: 0 0    
    (2)   Cash-settled derivatives:        
    (3)   Stock-settled derivatives (including options) and agreements to purchase/sell:        
    TOTAL: 0 0    

    All interests and all short positions should be disclosed.

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

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

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

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

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

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

    (a)        Purchases and sales

    Class of relevant security Purchase/sale Number of securities Price per unit
    ORDINARY 1p SALE 17,500,000 0.557p

    (b)        Cash-settled derivative transactions

    Class of relevant security Product description
    e.g. CFD    		 Nature of dealing
    e.g. opening/closing a long/short position, increasing/reducing a long/short position    		 Number of reference securities Price per unit
    NONE        

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

    (i)        Writing, selling, purchasing or varying

    Class of relevant security Product description e.g. call option Writing, purchasing, selling, varying etc. Number of securities to which option relates Exercise price per unit Type
    e.g. American, European etc.    		 Expiry date Option money paid/ received per unit
    NONE              

    (ii)        Exercise

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

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

    Class of relevant security Nature of dealing
    e.g. subscription, conversion    		 Details Price per unit (if applicable)
    NONE      

    4.        OTHER INFORMATION

    (a)        Indemnity and other dealing arrangements

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

    NONE

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

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

    NONE

    (c)        Attachments

    Is a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions) attached? NO
    Date of disclosure: 14 MARCH 2025
    Contact name: MARK ELLIOTT
    Telephone number: 01253 376539

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

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

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

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cutting-edge air quality monitoring strengthens public health nationwide

    Source: US Government research organizations

    A new, advanced air quality measurement network provides unprecedented details about the air we breathe

    The fires that devastated many in Los Angeles in January 2025 not only scarred the landscape but also changed the air.

    A day after the Eaton fire burned through Altadena, California, chlorine levels in the atmosphere reached approximately 40 times the normal amount, while lead peaked at over 100 times the usual level. Atmospheric chlorine can cause respiratory irritation and distress; lead can cause damage to the brain and central nervous system.

    “The Los Angeles fires burned homes and cars, which contain electronics, plastics and other synthetic materials that can give off toxic chemicals when they burn,” said Nga Lee “Sally” Ng, a professor at Georgia Tech.

    Ng leads the U.S. National Science Foundation-supported Atmospheric Science and Chemistry mEasurement NeTwork (ASCENT), which includes 12 air quality measurement sites nationwide. Each site has state-of-the-art instruments that help us understand aerosols, or tiny particles in the atmosphere. The network is constantly analyzing the chemical constituents of aerosols with a diameter smaller than 2.5 micrometers, referred to as PM2.5, which contribute to more than 90% of the adverse health impacts associated with air pollution.

    Researchers in the ASCENT team analyzed data from three locations across Southern California during and after the fire to reveal that certain aerosols carried a unique chemical signature associated with burning synthetic materials in urban fires.

    “We now have a very powerful magnifying glass to see what aerosols are entering the atmosphere and how those aerosols change as they travel across the landscape,” Ng said.

    A few months ago, in late September 2024, Ng and her team analyzed ASCENT data following a fire that broke out at the Conyers chemical plant in Georgia’s Rockdale County. The instruments showed a sharp rise in chlorine- and organic-containing aerosols associated with the chemical fire, although the PM2.5 levels did not rise above U.S. Environmental Protection Agency standards. The team was able to track those aerosols as they traveled to the Atlanta metro area and differentiate them from Atlanta’s usual aerosols.

    “We provide ASCENT data to the public in real time so that people know what’s in the air we’re breathing,” Ng said.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE Houston deports 6-time removed criminal alien to Mexico with 6 convictions for DWI, 6 for theft

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    HOUSTON – U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement deported a six-time removed criminal alien to Mexico March 13 who has been convicted six times of driving while intoxicated and six times for theft while she was illegally in the U.S.

    ICE transported Leticia Caballero Guadarrama, a 53-year-old criminal alien from Mexico, from the Montgomery Processing Center in Conroe, Texas, to the Laredo Port of Entry where she was released into Mexico.

    Caballero has illegally entered the U.S. at least six times and was voluntarily returned to Mexico July 5, 2002; and deported to Mexico on May 27, 2003; Feb. 14, 2009; Dec. 30, 2009; Sept. 30, 2010; and March 13, 2025.

    Caballero has been convicted of 14 criminal offenses while in the U.S. illegally including six convictions for DWI (April 2, 2004; Feb. 10, 2006; Jan. 13, 2009; Jan. 21, 2009; May 11, 2011; and June 12, 2024); six convictions for theft or larceny (Sept. 2, 2003; Jan. 20, 2006; Jan. 9, 2009; Dec. 20, 2009; Sept. 10, 2010; and Sept. 24, 2021); and twice for refusing to provide identification to law enforcement (Jan. 20, 2006, and June 2, 2006).

    “I have served in law enforcement for more than 30 years and few things surprise me, but the level of disrespect that this criminal alien has shown for our system of laws and for the brave men and women who risk their lives every day to uphold those laws is shocking,” said ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Houston Field Office Director Bret Bradford. “After repeatedly entering the country illegally and getting behind the wheel intoxicated, she has victimized hard-working Texans over and over again by stealing their money and property and then attempted to avoid accountability by refusing to provide law enforcement with identification after she was caught. By carelessly flaunting our system of laws, her actions endangered everyone in the community and have wasted significant taxpayer-funded government resources.”

    For more news and information on ICE’s efforts to enforce our nation’s immigration laws in Southeast Texas follow us on X at @EROHouston.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: UConn Uncovers New Clue on What is Leading to Neurodegenerative Diseases Like Alzheimer’s and ALS

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    In Nature Neuroscience, UConn School of Medicine researchers have revealed a new scientific clue that could unlock the key cellular pathway leading to devastating neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s disease, and the progressive damage to the brain’s frontal and temporal lobes in frontotemporal degeneration (FTD) and the associated disease amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).

    Courtesy of the Murphy Lab.

    The study, “Endothelial TDP-43 Depletion Disrupts Core Blood-Brain Barrier Pathways in Neurodegeneration,” was published on March 14, 2025. The lead author, Omar Moustafa Fathy, an MD/Ph.D. candidate at the Center for Vascular Biology at UConn School of Medicine, conducted the research in the laboratory of senior author Dr. Patrick A. Murphy, associate professor and newly appointed interim director of the Center for Vascular Biology. The study was carried out in collaboration with Dr. Riqiang Yan, a leading expert in Alzheimer’s disease and neurodegeneration research.

    Patrick Murphy, Ph.D., interim director of the Center for Vascular Biology at UConn School of Medicine (Tina Encarnacion/UConn Health).

    This work provides a novel and significant exploration of how vascular dysfunction contributes to neurodegenerative diseases, exemplifying the powerful collaboration between the Center for Vascular Biology and the Department of Neuroscience. While clinical evidence has long suggested that blood-brain barrier (BBB) dysfunction plays a role in neurodegeneration, the specific contribution of endothelial cells remained unclear. The BBB serves as a critical protective barrier, shielding the brain from circulating factors that could cause inflammation and dysfunction. Though multiple cell types contribute to its function, endothelial cells—the inner lining of blood vessels—are its principal component.

    “It is often said in the field that ‘we are only as old as our arteries’. Across diseases we are learning the importance of the endothelium. I had no doubt the same would be true in neurodegeneration, but seeing what these cells were doing was a critical first step,” says Murphy.

    Omar, Murphy, and their team tackled a key challenge: endothelial cells are rare and difficult to isolate from tissues, making it even harder to analyze the molecular pathways involved in neurodegeneration.

    To overcome this, they developed an innovative approach to enrich these cells from frozen tissues stored in a large NIH-sponsored biobank. They then applied inCITE-seq, a cutting-edge method that enables direct measurement of protein-level signaling responses in single cells—marking its first-ever use in human tissues.

    Omar Moustafa Fathy, graduate assistant in the Center for Vascular Biology at UConn School of Medicine (Tina Encarnacion/UConn Health).

    This breakthrough led to a striking discovery: endothelial cells from three different neurodegenerative diseases—Alzheimer’s disease (AD), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), and frontotemporal dementia (FTD)—shared fundamental similarities that set them apart from the endothelium in healthy aging. A key finding was the depletion of TDP-43, an RNA-binding protein genetically linked to ALS-FTD and commonly disrupted in AD. Until now, research has focused primarily on neurons, but this study highlights a previously unrecognized dysfunction in endothelial cells.

    “It’s easy to think of blood vessels as passive pipelines, but our findings challenge that view,” says Omar. “Across multiple neurodegenerative diseases, we see strikingly similar vascular changes, suggesting that the vasculature isn’t just collateral damage—it’s actively shaping disease progression. Recognizing these commonalities opens the door to new therapeutic possibilities that target the vasculature itself.”

    The research team believes this newly identified subset of endothelial cells could provide a roadmap to targeting this endothelial disfunction to stave off disease, and also to develop new biomarkers from the blood of patients with disease.

    Funding was provided by startup funds from the UConn School of Medicine and Department of Cell Biology, Center for Vascular Biology and Calhoun Cardiology Center, American Heart Association Innovative Project Award 19IPLOI34770151 (to P.A.M.); NIH National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute Grants K99/R00-HL125727 and RF1-NS117449 (to P.A.M); American Heart Association Predoctoral award 23PRE1027078 (to O.M.F.O.) R01-AG046929 and R01-NS074256 (to R.Y.) and NIH GM135592 (to B.H.).

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: North Country Winners of DRI and NY Forward Announced

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul today announced that the Village of Malone will receive $10 million in funding as the North Country winner of the eighth round of the Downtown Revitalization Initiative, and the Hamlet of Keeseville and the Village of Gouverneur will each receive $4.5 million as the North Country winners of the third round of NY Forward. For Round 8 of the Downtown Revitalization Initiative and Round 3 of the NY Forward Program, each of the State’s 10 economic development regions are being awarded $10 million from each program, to make for a total state commitment of $200 million in funding and investments to help communities boost their economies by transforming downtowns into vibrant neighborhoods.

    “My goal for New York is to help transform downtown areas across the state into vibrant, thriving hubs. This funding will support new housing, attract businesses, and create public spaces that enhance quality of life,” Governor Hochul said. “By revitalizing these communities, we are strengthening local economies, creating more opportunities for growth, and ensuring a brighter, more sustainable future for the North Country.”

    To receive funding from either the DRI or NY Forward program, localities must be certified under Governor Hochul’s Pro-Housing Communities Program — an innovative policy created to recognize and reward municipalities actively working to unlock their housing potential. Governor Hochul’s Pro-Housing Communities initiative allocates up to $650 million each year in discretionary funds for communities that pledge to increase their housing supply; to date, 287 communities across New York have been certified as Pro-Housing Communities. This year, Governor Hochul is proposing an additional $100 million in funding to cover infrastructure projects necessary to create new housing in Pro-Housing Communities, and a further $10.5 million for technical assistance to help communities seeking to foster housing growth.

    Many of the projects funded through the DRI and NY Forward support Governor Hochul’s affordability agenda. The DRI has invested in the creation of more than 4,400 units of housing — 1,823 of which are affordable or workforce housing. The programs committed over $8.5 million to 11 projects that provide affordable or free child care and child care worker training. DRI and NY Forward have also invested in the creation of public parks, public art (such as murals and sculptures) and art, music and cultural venues that provide free outdoor recreation and entertainment opportunities.

    $10 Million Downtown Revitalization Initiative Award for Malone

    The Village of Malone’s downtown sits at the heart of a commercial district that is listed on both the State and the National Registers of Historic Places, with a built environment boasting a timeless charm that embodies all the nostalgic elements of Main Street America. Wide cobbled sidewalks are flanked by welcoming storefronts tucked neatly under second and third stories articulated with unique prewar detailing. The downtown also includes Arsenal Green Park, Veteran’s Memorial Park, Mill Park, and the Salmon River riparian corridor, providing natural elements and public spaces that complement the commercial activity of Main Street. The Village seeks to become a vibrant mixed-use neighborhood that is home to a growing number of residents, prosperous locally owned businesses, strong civic institutions, a thriving cultural scene and accessible outdoor recreation opportunities along the Salmon River.

    $4.5 Million NY Forward Award for Keeseville

    Situated where the Champlain Valley meets the Adirondack mountains and just three miles west of Lake Champlain, the hamlet of Keeseville offers tremendous recreational, commercial and residential opportunities. When Keeseville was founded in the 1800s its commercial and residential activity was closely tied to the Ausable River. The downtown includes a vibrant mixed-use development district framed by two historic bridges and three main streets, which create an accessible, walkable perimeter for residents and visitors to enjoy. It also acts as a bridge between two towns and counties uniting them into a single community. Keeseville’s vision for its future is to revitalize its historic and character-defining assets and to cultivate a vibrant and desirable community where current and future residents can live, work, play and thrive.

    $4.5 Million NY Forward Award for Gouverneur

    The Village of Gouverneur is a charming historic community located along the Oswegatchie River. The Village embodies the feel of community with a beautiful downtown and park area. The Village is home to many festivals and events, including the St. Lawrence County Fair, that entertains residents and attracts visitors from across the region. Gouverneur will capitalize on its historical charm, vibrant and expanding downtown business community, safe, friendly, and walkable environment and its proximity to major regional employers to enhance quality of life, strengthen resilience and increase economic opportunities for both current and future residents. Additionally, Gouverneur aims to attract visitors to experience its rich recreational, cultural and retail assets, positioning the village as a regional destination.

    New York Secretary of State Walter T. Mosley said, “The Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY Forward programs are making huge impacts in communities all across the State. We’re excited for Malone, Keeseville and Gouverneur to join this ongoing renaissance and experience the benefits of these programs first-hand. Congratulations to these three communities as they begin their new paths toward revitalization!”

    Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “Through the DRI and NY Forward programs, these three North Country communities will develop and implement strategic plans that maximize the impact of public funding to create economic growth. Targeted investments in Malone, Keeseville and Gouverneur will generate new developments that encourage more people, visitors and businesses to establish roots, grow and thrive.”

    New York State Homes and Community Renewal Commissioner RuthAnne Visnauskas said, “Today’s $19 million investment in Malone, Gouverneur and Keeseville will have a transformative impact on these North Country communities by creating opportunities for them to leverage their historic, small-town charm to generate tourism, revitalize local economies, and create more housing. Thank you to Governor Hochul for her continued commitment to life-changing investments that leave no region of our State behind.”

    North Country Regional Economic Development Council Co-Chairs James McKenna and Dr. Kathryn Morris said, “The North Country is home to unparalleled history and culture, and one-of-a-kind natural beauty, and these awards will support new economic development in three regional downtown destinations. DRI and NY Forward funds will help to transform Malone, Keeseville and Gouverneur by adding needed housing and powering projects that will ensure sustainable long-term growth.”

    Assemblymember Billy Jones said, “Congratulations to the Village of Malone and Keeseville for being selected for the DRI and New York Forward programs! This funding will help revitalize these communities, preserve their historic charm, and improve the quality of life for current and future residents. I have been a strong supporter of these projects since their inception and throughout the process and I want to congratulate the local officials who made this possible by working with Empire State Development. It is great to see these programs make a difference in the North Country and I look forward to seeing what the future has in store for Malone and Keeseville.”

    Assemblymember Ken Blankenbush said, “Gouverneur is a true treasure to the 117th Assembly District. I always like to see NYS invest in our rural villages. When you invest in downtowns you invest in small businesses and residents. I am always in support of that.”

    Village of Gouverneur Mayor Ron McDougall said, “On behalf of the Village of Gouverneur, I would like to thank Governor Hochul for this opportunity. This NY Forward Grant will be such a benefit to our community and we look forward to revitalizing our downtown.”

    Village of Malone Mayor Andrea Dumas said, “On behalf of the Village of Malone, we want to express our sincere gratitude for the announcement of the $10 million DRI grant award. This investment represents a significant moment for our community and reflects the cooperative spirit of our residents, business community, and local organizations that supported our application. Having applied in Round 7 and not giving up, this victory proves that persistence does pay off! We extend our sincerest thanks to the Regional Economic Development Council for having faith in Malone’s potential and moving our vision of a revitalized downtown forward. This funding will leverage meaningful projects that create new economic opportunities and enhance community engagement. This award isn’t just financial support—it’s a vote of confidence in Malone’s future, and we’re committed to making every dollar count for generations to come!”

    Chesterfield Town Supervisor Clayton Barber said, “I’m so very excited to hear that our community was selected to receive a NY Forward grant. This will allow us the opportunity to upgrade our sidewalks, make beautification improvements and attract more businesses and tourists to the downtown area. We also have plans to light up our downtown park and add a new walkway. The Town of Chesterfield is looking forward to working with the Town of Ausable on projects to enhance our two towns. Thanks to our NY Forward committee for all their hard work.”

    Ausable Town Supervisor Tim Bresett said, “I am deeply grateful and thrilled that Keeseville has been awarded a NY Forward grant, a testament to the incredible collaboration between the towns of AuSable and Chesterfield. This achievement reflects the tireless dedication of the NY FORWARD Committee, whose vision and hard work have paved the way for a brighter, more vibrant future for our community. Together, we’re not just revitalizing Keeseville—we’re celebrating its unique spirit and building a legacy for generations to come. It’s a moment to celebrate and a promise of progress we can all rally behind!”

    Malone, Keeseville and Gouverneur will now begin the process of developing a Strategic Investment Plan to revitalize their downtowns. A Local Planning Committee made up of municipal representatives, community leaders and other stakeholders will lead the effort, supported by a team of private sector experts and state planners. The Strategic Investment Plan will guide the investment of DRI and NY Forward grant funds in revitalization projects that are poised for implementation, will advance the community’s vision for their downtown and that can leverage and expand upon the state’s investment.

    The North Country Regional Economic Development Council conducted a thorough and competitive review process of proposals submitted from communities throughout the region and considered all criteria before recommending these communities as nominees.

    About the Downtown Revitalization Initiative

    The Downtown Revitalization Initiative was created in 2016 to accelerate and expand the revitalization of downtowns and neighborhoods in all ten regions of the state to serve as centers of activity and catalysts for investment. Led by the Department of State with assistance from Empire State Development, Homes and Community Renewal and NYSERDA, the DRI represents an unprecedented and innovative “plan-then-act” strategy that couples strategic planning with immediate implementation and results in compact, walkable downtowns that are a key ingredient to helping New York State rebuild its economy from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as to achieving the State’s bold climate goals by promoting the use of public transit and reducing dependence on private vehicles. Through eight rounds, the DRI will have awarded a total of $900 million to 89 communities across every region of the State.

    About the NY Forward Program

    First announced as part of the 2022 Budget, Governor Hochul created the NY Forward program to build on the momentum created by the DRI. The program works in concert with the DRI to accelerate and expand the revitalization of smaller and rural downtowns throughout the State so that all communities can benefit from the State’s revitalization efforts, regardless of size, character, needs and challenges.

    NY Forward communities are supported by a professional planning consultant and team of State agency experts led by DOS to develop a Strategic Investment Plan that includes a slate of transformative, complementary and readily implementable projects. NY Forward projects are appropriately scaled to the size of each community; projects may include building renovation and redevelopment, new construction or creation of new or improved public spaces and other projects that enhance specific cultural and historical qualities that define and distinguish the small-town charm that defines these municipalities. Through three rounds, the NY Forward program will have awarded a total of $300 million to 60 communities across every region of the State.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Topical steroid withdrawal diagnostic criteria defined by NIH researchers

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 2

    Media Advisory
    Friday, March 14, 2025

    Criteria may help guide treatment of dermatitis.

    What 
    Researchers at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) have determined that dermatitis resulting from topical steroid withdrawal (TSW) is distinct from eczema and is caused by an excess of an essential chemical compound in the body. Scientists from NIH’s National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) identified treatments that could be studied in clinical trials for the condition based on their potential to lower levels of the chemical compound—called nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+), a form of vitamin B3. The findings were published today in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology.
    Dermatitis is characterized by inflammation, itching, or burning sensations on the skin, and can result from various conditions including TSW and eczema. Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a common cause of dermatitis and affects 10 to 30% of children and 2 to 10% of adults each year in the United States. Topical steroids—specifically glucocorticoids or topical corticosteroids—have long been used as a first-line treatment for dermatitis caused by eczema because the drugs are safe, effective, easy to apply, and considered well-tolerated.
    Some people experience dermatitis after using topical steroids for prolonged periods of time and then stopping—a condition called TSW. Diagnosing and treating this condition is difficult because TSW is not well understood. Symptoms include skin redness, burning sensations, skin heat (thermal dysregulation), itching and peeling, which can even occur on parts of the body where topical steroids were not applied. As TSW and eczema have similar symptoms, it has been difficult to distinguish the two disorders.
    To better understand TSW, a team led by scientists in NIAID’s Laboratory of Clinical Immunology and Microbiology evaluated a previous survey that included 1,889 adults with symptoms similar to eczema. By dividing the participants into those with self-reported TSW and those without, the researchers identified characteristics unique to TSW. The researchers then conducted a pilot study including 16 people with symptoms consistent with TSW, 10 people with eczema but no symptoms of TSW, and 11 people without skin disease. They found that people with TSW symptoms had elevated levels of NAD+ in their blood serum and skin, while NAD+ levels were within a typical range in people without TSW symptoms.
    The researchers subsequently used cultured skin cells and a mouse model to mimic TSW conditions. They found that NAD+ was produced in response to topical steroids and caused inflammation. The models suggested that administration of a drug that blocked the formation of NAD+—called a mitochondrial complex I blockade—would improve TSW symptoms. In a pilot study to further assess this treatment strategy, the researchers evaluated subjective responses among study participants who used the mitochondrial complex I-blocking drugs metformin, berberine, or both. After three to five months of use, most participants reported improvement in TSW symptoms.
    The scientists provisionally established criteria that can be used by health care providers to identify TSW in people. People who have stopped topical steroid treatment and meet the criteria may be diagnosed by practitioners as having TSW. The researchers suggest that patients identified as having TSW could be treated using the proposed mitochondrial complex I-blocking drugs.
    The results of this study may help practitioners identify TSW in patients and work towards developing safe and effective treatments. According to the researchers, more research is needed to determine whether all patients with TSW have an excess of NAD+, or if there are other features that define TSW. Additionally, the diagnostic criteria will help health care providers and researchers to better understand the prevalence of TSW and evaluate the effects of using topical steroids.
    Article
    N Shobnam, G Ratley, S Saksena et al. Topical Steroid Withdrawal is a Targetable Excess of Mitochondrial NAD+. Journal of Investigative Dermatology 10.1016/j.jid.2024.11.026 (2025).
    Who 
    Ian Myles, M.D. M.P.H., Principal Investigator, Epithelial Therapeutics Unit in NIAID’s Laboratory of Clinical Immunology and Microbiology is available to discuss this research.
    NIAID conducts and supports research—at NIH, throughout the United States, and worldwide—to study the causes of infectious and immune-mediated diseases, and to develop better means of preventing, diagnosing and treating these illnesses. News releases, fact sheets and other NIAID-related materials are available on the NIAID website.
    About the National Institutes of Health (NIH): NIH, the nation’s medical research agency, includes 27 Institutes and Centers and is a component of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. NIH is the primary federal agency conducting and supporting basic, clinical, and translational medical research, and is investigating the causes, treatments, and cures for both common and rare diseases. For more information about NIH and its programs, visit www.nih.gov.
    NIH…Turning Discovery Into Health®

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Eight GoodFellas Gang Members and Associates Charged with Violent Crimes in Aid of Racketeering, Including Attempted Murder

    Source: United States Department of Justice Criminal Division

    An indictment was unsealed yesterday in the Northern District of Georgia charging eight members and associates of the GoodFellas Gang for their alleged roles in a criminal enterprise engaged in attempted murder, assault with a dangerous weapon, and attempted carjacking in and around Atlanta.

    According to the indictment, the GoodFellas are a violent gang that heavily recruits members in Atlanta neighborhoods, local jails, and Georgia Department of Corrections facilities. Members engage in violence to enhance the violent reputation of the gang.

    As alleged in the indictment, six of the defendants shot and attempted to murder four victims. Additionally, two GoodFellas members and associates allegedly attempted a carjacking and assaulted three victims with a dangerous weapon.

    Frank Hubbert, also known as Capo Frank, 38; Montavis Jones, also known as Nigel Woods, Jitt, and Git, 37; Darian Sheppard, also known as Lil D, 27; De’Andre Jackson, also known as Gen, Glock, and Glizzy, 22; Ephram Marshall, also known as Lil E, 24; Tahj Rankine, also known as Biggz, 26; and Leonunte Carson, also known as Lil Tae, 22, are each charged with multiple counts of attempted murder in aid of racketeering and with using a firearm during these crimes.

    Hubbert and Ahday Nelson-George, also known as Baby K, 25, are each charged with multiple counts of assault with a dangerous weapon, and attempted carjacking.

    Seven of the defendants face a maximum penalty of life in prison; Nelson-George faces a maximum penalty of 75 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Supervisory Official Matthew R. Galeotti, head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, Acting U.S. Attorney Richard S. Moultrie Jr. for the Northern District of Georgia, and Special Agent in Charge Paul Brown of the FBI Atlanta Field Office made the announcement.

    The FBI is investigating the case with valuable assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the Fulton County (Georgia) Sheriff’s Office; Georgia Department of Corrections; and the Atlanta Police Department.

    Trial Attorney Sarah J. Rasalam of the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime and Racketeering Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren Renaud for the Northern District of Georgia 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 (TCOs) 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 (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: VeeMost Technologies Expands Growth Strategy, Provides Update on FINRA Approval & Strategic Direction

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    RED BANK, NEW JERSEY, March 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — VeeMost Technologies Inc. (OTC: $GDVM) is pleased to provide key updates on its strategic growth initiatives, government contracting progress, and corporate updates that reflect the company’s commitment to delivering long-term value for shareholders.

    Strategic Decision to Prioritize Internal Growth Over Acquisition

    As part of its long-term growth strategy, VeeMost Technologies made a strategic decision to redirect funds originally earmarked for the acquisition of a Dallas-based company into strengthening the company’s internal operations.

    After careful evaluation, we determined that proceeding with the acquisition was not in the best financial interest of VeeMost at this time. While the acquisition initially aligned with our expansion plans, further due diligence revealed challenges in securing favorable financing terms.

    Although we received offers for financing, a thorough review of the proposed terms revealed that they could have resulted in excessive shareholder dilution and unfavorable financing conditions. Many of these offers came from firms specializing in high-risk funding structures, which could have placed undue financial strain on the company and negatively impacted shareholder value. Rather than pursuing an acquisition under these terms, VeeMost made the strategic decision to reinvest capital into core growth areas, ensuring long-term value creation while protecting shareholder equity.

    While this particular acquisition was not the right fit at this time, VeeMost remains actively engaged in evaluating other strategic acquisition opportunities. The company continues to seek financially viable businesses that align with its growth strategy and can be acquired under terms that are fiscally responsible and beneficial to shareholders. Management remains committed to pursuing opportunities that strengthen VeeMost’s market position while maintaining financial discipline and protecting long-term value.

    Instead, VeeMost channeled resources into high-growth areas, including:
    ✅Expanding government contracting capabilities by initiating the GSA Schedule approval process with Government Services Exchange (GSE)
    ✅Winning new E-Rate contracts, positioning the company for continued success in the education sector
    ✅Securing contracts with a company serving the defense sector, expanding its cybersecurity and IT solutions footprint
    ✅Forming new vendor partnerships with Vertiv, Nutanix, Lenovo, and more, enhancing its technology offerings
    ✅Marketing and positioning the newly launched VeeStore platform (store.veemost.com) as a trusted technology store for organizations.

    This decision fortifies VeeMost’s financial future while ensuring that resources are allocated toward revenue-generating initiatives that enhance shareholder value.

    FINRA Approval Process Nearing Completion

    VeeMost Technologies is also pleased to provide an update on its corporate restructuring process with FINRA. The company has worked diligently to resolve legacy SEC reporting gaps dating back to 2006, and other key requirements before FINRA could finalize the company name change, ticker change, and implementation of the newly approved CUSIP.

    With these compliance matters now largely addressed, VeeMost is in the final stages of securing FINRA approval.

    “The process has been meticulous, but we are confident that we are now very close to completing this transition,” said Melvin Ejiogu, President of VeeMost Technologies. “Once finalized, these changes will provide greater transparency, streamline trading access, and strengthen our standing in the public markets. This completion will also allow us to move forward with key board appointments as part of our broader corporate growth strategy.”

    Looking Ahead

    With a stronger financial foundation, new contracts in key sectors, and a pending FINRA approval that will bring corporate clarity, VeeMost Technologies is well-positioned for sustained growth.

    The company remains committed to:
    ✅ Expanding its government contracting business through the GSA Schedule process
    ✅ Securing more E-Rate contracts to support schools and educational institutions
    ✅ Strengthening its cybersecurity and IT services footprint through new strategic vendor partnerships
    ✅ Delivering shareholder value through smart financial decisions and targeted growth initiatives

    With newly secured contracts from a company serving the defense sector, VeeMost is further expanding its presence in government-focused IT solutions, reinforcing its ability to provide cutting-edge technology and security-driven services.

    The company appreciates the patience and support of its investors as it continues to execute on its long-term vision.

    Safe Harbor Statement

    This release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. You can identify these statements by the use of the words “may,” “will,” “should,” “plans,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “continue,” “estimates,” “projects,” “intends,” and similar expressions. Forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that could cause results to differ materially from those projected or anticipated. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, the Company’s ability to successfully execute its expanded business strategy, including by entering into definitive agreements with suppliers, commercial partners and customers; general economic and business conditions, effects of continued geopolitical unrest and regional conflicts, competition, changes in technology and methods of marketing, delays in completing various engineering and manufacturing programs, changes in customer order patterns, changes in product mix, continued success in technical advances and delivering technological innovations, shortages in components, production delays due to performance quality issues with outsourced components, regulatory requirements and the ability to meet them, government agency rules and changes, and various other factors beyond the Company’s control.

    CONTACT: VeeMost Technologies Inc.
    info@veemost.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Changes in the Management Board of Šiaulių Bankas

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Šiaulių Bankas AB has received notification of Agnė Duksienė about her resignation from the Bank’s Management Board members.

    18 March 2025 is the last day of Agnė Duksienė term of office as a member of the Management Board and as a Head of Legal, Compliance and Prevention Division and CCO.

    Agnė Duksienė started her career at Šiaulių Bankas in 2022 and took up her duties as a member of the Management Board on 8 May 2023.

    “On behalf of the Bank, I thank Agnė Duksienė for her professionalism and leadership in the areas of legal and compliance management, which are of strategic importance to the Bank. Function of Head of the Legal, Compliance and Prevention Division will be covered by Aurelija Geležiūnė, who currently holds Head of Legal Department position. After the necessary regulatory actions are performed, she will ensure covering CCO functions as well,” said Vytautas Sinius, CEO.

     

    Additional information:
    Oksana Balsienė
    Head of HR
    oksana.balsiene@sb.lt

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Child exploitation task force seizes 10+ million images, videos in second year, sends stern warning to predators

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – In its second year combatting child exploitation in northeast Florida, the Inter-agency Child Exploitation and Persons Trafficking Task Force continues its relentless pursuit of child predators, warning them that, with the combined strength of multiple agencies and advanced resources, their abhorrent actions will be exposed, even in the darkest corners of the web.

    In 2024, the Northeast Florida INTERCEPT Task Force initiated 1,220 investigations and resolved 728 Cyber Tips from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. Investigators seized 122 electronic devices containing over 10 million images and videos, including more than 48,000 identified as child sexual abuse material. As a result, 28 victims were identified, and 66 arrests made, with many cases still active or in various stages of prosecution.

    The INTERCEPT Task Force is a unique coalition of local, state, and federal law enforcement, including U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations Jacksonville, Clay County Sheriff’s Office, Putnam County Sheriff’s Office, St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office, Nassau County Sheriff’s Office, Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. Together, alongside private sector partners, they adopt a whole-of-government approach and collaborate daily to tackle the complexities on the front lines of child exploitation and human trafficking.

    Partnering with Operation Light Shine and supported by donors like the Tim Tebow Foundation, the task force provides law enforcement with essential tools, funding, and training to combat this modern-day slavery of child exploitation and human trafficking. This collaboration enhances their investigative capabilities with advanced technology and expert resources.

    Since its inception in March 2023, the Northeast Florida INTERCEPT Task Force has become a national model in the fight against child exploitation, committed to holding offenders accountable and rescuing vulnerable victims. With the full backing of HSI and numerous law enforcement and private sector partners, this task force is resolute in its mission to hold offenders accountable and rescue vulnerable victims.

    To report any information about human trafficking, child sexual abuse, or the trafficking in child sexual abuse material immediately to your local sheriff’s office. Those who wish to remain anonymous can report information to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children through their tip line at (800) 843-5678 or report it to them online at report.cybertip.org.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General James’ Office of Special Investigation Releases Report on Death of a Civilian in Suffolk County

    Source: US State of New York

    EW YORK – New York Attorney General Letitia James’ Office of Special Investigation (OSI) today released its report on the death of A.S., a minor, who died on September 13, 2023, following a motor vehicle collision involving a member of the Suffolk County Police Department (SCPD) in Suffolk County on September 9, 2023. Following a thorough investigation, which included review and analysis of video footage from a nearby residence, interviews with the involved officer and civilian witnesses, and comprehensive legal analysis, OSI determined that a prosecutor would not be able to prove beyond a reasonable doubt at trial that the involved officer committed a crime, and therefore criminal charges would not be pursued in this matter.

    On the evening of September 9, an SCPD officer was driving southbound on William Floyd Parkway responding to a medical emergency in a marked police vehicle with the emergency lights and siren activated. William Floyd Parkway has four main lanes – two southbound and two northbound – divided by a grass median. The southbound roadway, north of Adobe Drive, has two additional lanes, a left-turn lane and a right-turn lane. The posted speed limit on William Floyd Parkway in the vicinity of Adobe Drive is 30 MPH. As the officer approached the intersection with Adobe Drive/Beacon Street, she maneuvered around a car stopped ahead of her and entered the travel lane to the right of the left-turn lane and proceeded into the intersection through a green traffic light, traveling at a speed over 85 MPH. When the officer entered the intersection, she struck A.S., who was riding his bicycle east from Beacon Street across William Floyd Parkway. A.S. was transported to a local hospital, where he died from his injuries on September 13, 2023.

    Under OSI’s analysis of New York’s Vehicle and Traffic Law, Penal Law, and case law from New York’s highest court, a police officer who causes a death while properly responding to an emergency in a police vehicle cannot be charged with a crime unless the officer acts recklessly or intentionally. The criminal charge that requires recklessness is Manslaughter in the Second Degree, in which a person is guilty when they recklessly cause the death of another person. “Recklessly” means that the person consciously disregards a “substantial and unjustifiable” risk of death and that their actions are a “gross deviation” from a reasonable standard of conduct.

    In this case, while the officer caused A.S.’s death, the evidence does not establish beyond a reasonable doubt that the officer’s conduct was a gross deviation from the standard that would have been observed by a reasonable officer in the same circumstances, or that the officer consciously disregarded a substantial and unjustifiable risk of death. The officer was speeding because she was responding to an emergency. She took precautionary measures by activating her vehicle’s emergency lights and siren, and when the officer saw A.S., she attempted to swerve around him. There was not any evidence that the officer was impaired by drugs or alcohol, or that she was otherwise distracted at the time of the crash. OSI therefore will not pursue charges against the officer.

    Determining the possibility of alcohol impairment is an essential component of investigating vehicular crashes. In this case, the officer was never administered a Portable Breath Test (PBT) after the incident. While there is no evidence that the officer driving the car was impaired by drugs or alcohol, OSI recommends that all precinct supervisors be trained in the administration of PBTs and field sobriety tests so that any on-duty or off-duty police officer, or any civilian, involved in a motor vehicle collision can be tested as close to the time of the collision as practicable to ensure the most accurate results.

    OSI also recommends that SCPD equip all police vehicles with dashboard cameras that automatically record when officers activate the police car’s emergency lights to foster transparency, accountability, and evidence gathering. In this case, the officer’s vehicle was equipped with a dashcam, but the officer did not activate the dashcam when she activated the car’s emergency lights or sirens.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General James Takes Action to Protect New York Consumers and Small Businesses 

    Source: US State of New York

    EW YORK – New York Attorney General Letitia James today advanced new legislation to protect consumers and small businesses from unfair, deceptive, and abusive practices. The Fostering Affordability and Integrity through Reasonable Business Practices, or FAIR Business Practices Act, is a program bill from the Office of the Attorney General (OAG) and championed in the state legislature by Senator Leroy Comrie and Assemblymember Micah Lasher. This legislation will strengthen New York’s consumer protection law, GBL §349, to protect New Yorkers from a wide array of scams, including deed theft, artificial intelligence (AI)-based schemes, online phishing scams, hard-to-cancel subscriptions, junk fees, data breaches, and other unfair, deceptive, and abusive practices. Forty-seven other states and federal law already prohibit unfair practices, making New York’s current law both antiquated and inadequate. 

    The FAIR Business Practices Act would also help stop lenders, including auto lenders, mortgage servicers, and student loan servicers, from deceptively steering people into higher cost loans. It would reduce unnecessary and hidden fees, stop unfair billing practices by health care companies, and prevent companies from taking advantage of New Yorkers with limited English proficiency. With the federal government rolling back protections for consumers and small businesses, the FAIR Business Practices Act authorizes OAG and victims to seek civil penalties and restitution against businesses that use unfair, deceptive, or abusive practices against vulnerable New Yorkers. 

    “In New York right now, companies can make canceling a subscription so hard it seems impossible; nursing homeowners can sue relatives of deceased former residents; and debt collectors can steal Social Security benefits,” said Attorney General James. “This legislation will put a stop to this all. At a time when the federal government is making life harder, we want to make life easier for New Yorkers. The FAIR Business Practices Act will close loopholes that make it too easy for New Yorkers to be scammed, and will allow my office to go after anyone who violates the law and look forward to working with my partners in state government to ensure that as Washington retreats from protecting consumers, New York steps up to lead.” 

    “Strong consumer protection tools are essential for protecting Americans from unfair and abusive business practices,” said former FTC Chair Lina Khan. “At the FTC, we used these tools to tackle a range of exploitative tactics, from outrageous subscription traps and predatory scams to dangerous commercial surveillance. By passing a strong consumer protection bill, New York lawmakers can empower Attorney General James to fully defend New Yorkers’ pocketbooks, privacy, and economic freedoms.”

    “Businesses should compete by providing great products and superior service, not by devising schemes to rip people off,” said former CFPB Director and FTC Commissioner Rohit Chopra. “We need stronger state laws to combat abuses that harm families and honest businesses. With stronger laws on the books, Attorney General James and state law enforcement across the country can stop the scourge of junk fees and other crimes against consumers.”

    “When unscrupulous actors take advantage of New Yorkers through online scams, junk fees, and hidden costs, our community and our economy suffer,” said Senator Leroy Comrie. “From unfair debt collection to deed theft, too many consumers have been hurt by abusive and deceptive practices. Let’s get the FAIR Business Practices Act passed this year and put the power back in the hands of the people, ensuring that businesses play fairly and put New York on par with 47 other states that already have these protections. I’m proud to work alongside Assemblyman Micah Lasher and Attorney General Letitia James to bring much-needed protections to the people who need them most.”

    “Consumer protection equals affordability. Every year, billions of hard-earned dollars are extracted from American consumers by companies, big and small, that take advantage of us,” said Assemblymember Micah Lasher. “And as we speak, Donald Trump, who ran on the issue of affordability, is turning the lights off at the Federal agencies responsible for protecting our pocketbooks. The news today is that New York is going to fight back with the FAIR Business Practices Act. Making sure that the Attorney General has the tools she needs to look out for New Yorkers is one of the best ways we can stop the damage Trump is trying to do. By passing this bill, we will protect consumers from the high costs of unfair business practices and make sure they can spend the money they earn on the things they need. It is an honor to stand together in this fight with Attorney General James, who is a beacon for New York and for the nation in this moment of darkness, and with Senator Comrie, who has taught me a great deal over many years about combining conviction and common sense to deliver for constituents.”

    New York’s current consumer protection law, GBL §349, was passed in 1970 and only prohibits deceptive business acts and practices, leaving consumers vulnerable to unfair or abusive acts by companies. The FAIR Business Practices Act will protect New Yorkers from unfair and abusive business acts, such as: 

    • Companies that make it difficult for consumers to cancel a subscription;
    • Student loan servicers that steer borrowers into the most expensive repayment plans;
    • Car dealers that refuse to return a customer’s photo ID until a deal is finalized and charge for add-on warranties that the customer did not actually purchase;
    • Nursing homes that routinely sue relatives of deceased residents for their unpaid bills despite not having any basis for liability;
    • Companies that take advantage of consumers with limited English proficiency and obscure pricing information and fees;
    • Debt collectors that collect and refuse to return a senior’s Social Security benefits, even though they are exempt from debt collection; and
    • Health insurance companies’ that use long lists of in-network doctors who turn out not to accept the insurance.

    On February 9, the Trump administration ordered the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) to stop all work protecting consumers and decline any new cases. The CFPB is an independent agency that oversees big banks, lenders, credit card companies, and mortgage servicers and ensures companies are following federal consumer protection laws. As a result of the Trump administration’s actions, the nation’s largest banks are no longer being closely watched for compliance with key consumer protections by any federal regulator. The administration’s efforts to destroy the CFPB could also prevent consumers from reporting issues of fraud or deception. 

    “For months, I battled my student loan servicer over errors that delayed my payments, cost me critical progress toward loan forgiveness, and left me in financial limbo—all with no clear explanation or accountability,” said Erik Krause, a student loan borrower. “My case is just one of many. Too often, consumers are left vulnerable to mismanagement from financial institutions with little recourse. The legislation advanced by Attorney General James and the bill sponsors will change that, ensuring real protections for millions of New Yorkers against these unfair and harmful practices.”

    “Nearly every one of the small business clients I advise has had some experience with predatory lenders,” said Eda Henries, Founder & Managing Principal of Henries and Co. in Brooklyn. “This is the case because traditional banks have largely exited the small business lending space, meaning that when a small business owner needs capital they often turn to non-traditional lenders that can offer quick turnarounds on underwriting and disbursing a loan. But the flip side of that is these loans come with hidden interest rates that are very high and extremely onerous repayment terms. What may look like growth funding or growth capital often ends up being a debt trap. New York must stop allowing bad actors in the lending space to act without guardrails and should provide small businesses with more meaningful protections from abusive practices by these lenders, vendors, and other predatory businesses. That is why I support Attorney General James’ efforts to advance the FAIR Business Practices Act.”

    “I am a co-op owner and up to date on my mortgage,” said Richard Barrett, a senior homeowner in Harlem. “Last year my mortgage servicer – a company I never even chose to do business with – improperly paid my entire building’s property taxes and is demanding that I reimburse them even though they are entitled to a refund from the City. I believe this practice is unfair and abusive and that Attorney General James’ FAIR Act would incentivize the company to fix the problem it created, instead of taking advantage of New Yorkers due to New York’s weak consumer protection laws.”

    “New York once stood as a model of consumer protection, but over time has fallen behind most other states in this regard,” said Carolyn Carter, Deputy Director of the National Consumer Law Center. “New Yorkers are especially vulnerable in this moment as our strongest line of defense – the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau and Federal Trade Commission – are being eroded, and there are no state-level protections in New York against unfair and abusive market conduct. From large financial transactions such as student loan borrowing and auto sales to the everyday “subscription” economy, we see consumers fall victim to nefarious business practices without the ability for redress. NCLC applauds the Attorney General, Senator Comrie, and Assemblyman Lasher for championing the Fair Business Practices Act which will again make New York a leader in general consumer protection laws and promote a fairer economy for all.”

    “All too often we see seniors and their families fall victim to predatory business practices such as unfair debt collection by nursing homes, home repair scams, and financial exploitation,” said Karen Nicolson, CEO and Executive Director of the Center for Elder Law and Justice. “Our attorneys work tirelessly to help secure redress for our clients, but New York’s weak general consumer protection law – which notably does not ban unfair or abusive business activity – limits our ability to secure restitution. We applaud Attorney General James, Senator Comrie, and Assemblymember Lasher for championing the FAIR Business Practices Act which will better protect aging New Yorkers from nefarious marketplace conduct, hold bad actors accountable, and ensure that victims will be made whole.”

    “Every single day we hear from older adults who have been victims of scams,” said Ann Marie Cook, President and CEO of Lifespan of Greater Rochester. “Scams are serious crimes that, at a minimum, disrupt a person’s life and usually impact their financial future for a long time. At Lifespan we work to educate older adults, protect them against unscrupulous people, and help them if they have been scammed. I want to sincerely thank Attorney General Letitia James for her leadership on this issue and for protecting all consumers from deceptive practices.” 

    New Yorkers, especially seniors, veterans, low-income New Yorkers, and immigrant communities, are most vulnerable to these types of unfair, deceptive, or abusive practices. The FAIR Business Practices Act will authorize OAG and impacted individuals to bring a civil case against individuals or companies that engage in unfair, deceptive, or abusive practices to seek penalties and restitution. This legislation has been introduced in the State Senate and State Assembly, and Attorney General James will work to have it advanced and signed into law so New York consumers are better protected regardless of what happens on the federal level. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Long Island DRI and NY Forward Winners Announced

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul today announced that Hempstead will receive $10 million in funding as the Long Island winner of the eighth round of the Downtown Revitalization Initiative, and Farmingdale will receive $4.5 million as the Long Island winner of the third round of NY Forward. For Round 8 of the Downtown Revitalization Initiative and Round 3 of the NY Forward Program, each of the State’s 10 economic development regions receive awards from each program, to make for a total State commitment of $200 million in funding and investments to help communities boost their economies by transforming downtowns into vibrant neighborhoods.

    “Long Island’s downtowns are more than hubs for business, they’re the infrastructure that inspires people to build a better world around them,” Governor Hochul said. “By investing nearly $15 million in revitalizing Hempstead and Farmingdale, we’re creating stronger communities that honor their history and possibility — paving a path for generations of Long Islanders to experience all they have to offer.”

    To receive funding from either the DRI or NY Forward program, localities must be certified under Governor Hochul’s Pro-Housing Communities Program — an innovative policy created to recognize and reward municipalities actively working to unlock their housing potential. Governor Hochul’s Pro-Housing Communities initiative allocates up to $650 million each year in discretionary funds for communities that pledge to increase their housing supply; to date, 287 communities across New York have been certified as Pro-Housing Communities. This year, Governor Hochul is proposing an additional $100 million in funding to cover infrastructure projects necessary to create new housing in Pro-Housing Communities, and a further $10 million to technical assistance to help communities seeking to foster housing growth and associated municipal development.

    Many of the projects funded through the DRI and NY Forward support Governor Hochul’s affordability agenda. The DRI has invested in the creation of more than 4,400 units of housing — 1,823 of which are affordable or workforce. The programs committed over $8.5 million to 11 projects that provide affordable or free child care and child care worker training. DRI and NY Forward have also invested in the creation of public parks, public art (such as murals and sculptures) and art, music and cultural venues that provide free outdoor recreation and entertainment opportunities.

    $10 Million Downtown Revitalization Initiative Award for the Village of Hempstead
    Hempstead’s Main Street is the social, retail and civic heart of the community, serving as a key destination for the Village, Town and County. Its strategic location offers walkable access to essential transit services, commercial corridors and cultural institutions, including restaurants, Denton Green and the Nassau County African American Museum. Signature buildings with distinctive facades line the street, adding to its character and enhancing its unique visual identity. With a vibrant mix of arts, culture and retail, Hempstead seeks to transform its Main Street into a thriving hub of activity, community and commerce. Specific community goals include creating a broad mix of housing opportunities, increasing business and service offerings, enhancing cultural arts and fostering recreation and entertainment.

    $4.5 Million NY Forward Award for the Village of Farmingdale
    The Village of Farmingdale’s downtown is a compact area mixed with small parcels and dense building coverage, mixed land uses and charming architecture. It is situated among some of the most popular tourist destinations in New York State. Due to the Village’s characteristics, Farmingdale is focusing on projects that will yield dramatic and positive effects, thereby advancing an active downtown with a strong sense of place. The Village seeks to attract new businesses, encourage a diverse population, improve downtown living and quality of life and enhance the pedestrian walkability and cyclability of the downtown.

    New York Secretary of State Walter T. Mosley said, “Residents and visitors of Long Island have witnessed first-hand how impactful the Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY Forward programs have been for countless communities and the entire region. Now, the Villages of Hempstead and Farmingdale will receive this critical funding that will help to jumpstart their downtowns and join in on the wave of revitalization that is sweeping our state. Congratulations to both of these communities, and we look forward to working with you throughout this process!”

    Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “The Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY Forward programs continue to be transformative forces for communities across Long Island. With these strategic investments in Hempstead and Farmingdale, New York State is supporting locally-driven solutions that will create vibrant, walkable downtowns while expanding housing opportunities and strengthening local economies. These projects demonstrate the State’s commitment to building sustainable, prosperous communities that attract both residents and businesses.”

    New York State Homes and Community Renewal Commissioner RuthAnne Visnauskas said, “Today’s $14.5 million in transformative NY Forward and the Downtown Revitalization Initiative investments demonstrate Governor Hochul’s continued commitment to rewarding communities that are serious about expanding housing and economic opportunities for current and future residents. As two of the 287 current participants in the Governor’s Pro-Housing Communities program, Farmingdale and Hempstead have unlocked access to today’s funding that will enrich their neighborhoods and grow the housing supply through targeted investment. We thank these communities for their commitment to improving housing supply and congratulate them on today’s awards.”

    LIREDC Co-Chairs Linda Armyn, President & CEO at Bethpage Federal Credit Union and Dr. Kimberly R. Cline, President of Long Island University, said, “Hempstead and Farmingdale presented compelling visions for their downtown corridors that will create new opportunities for housing, business growth, and community engagement. The Village of Hempstead’s focus on enhancing its historic Main Street while expanding housing and cultural amenities, coupled with Farmingdale’s plans to strengthen its walkable downtown core, exemplify the kind of forward-thinking development that will benefit Long Island for generations to come. We look forward to working with both communities as they implement their strategic investment plans.”

    State Senator Siela Bynoe said, “This Downtown Revitalization Initiative grant will provide much-deserved investment to the Village of Hempstead. As we’ve seen in Westbury Village, this grant will have a transformational impact on Hempstead’s downtown by improving walkability, and creating opportunities through investment in the Village’s commercial downtown. In Westbury Village, the Downtown Revitalization Initiative provided a blueprint for innovation to address our housing and infrastructure needs, and it is exciting to see Hempstead have this same opportunity. I’d like to thank the Governor and the Long Island Regional Economic Development Council for their commitment to helping to empower our communities.”

    Assemblymember Noah Burroughs said, “I’m pleased to hear that finally the Village Of Hempstead is being recognized as the great hub in Nassau County as well as Long Island. Today I was notified that the Village of Hempstead has been awarded the downtown revitalization initiative. I would like to thank Governor Hochul for seeing the vision we have in the 18th assembly district. This brings us one step closer to having a downtown that the residents could be proud to visit, shop, dine and enjoy on a daily basis.”

    Village of Hempstead Mayor Waylyn Hobbs said, “Hempstead is a proud, hardworking community, and this $10 million investment will go a long way in making our downtown a place where families, businesses, and visitors can thrive. We’re incredibly grateful to Governor Hochul for believing in Hempstead and for giving us the tools to build a stronger, more vibrant future. This funding means more opportunities for local businesses, more housing for our residents, and a downtown that truly reflects the energy and diversity of our village. We’re excited to get to work and make this vision a reality.”

    Village of Farmingdale Mayor Ralph Ekstrand said, “On behalf of Myself and the Board of Trustees, all Farmingdale Village Residents, Our Merchants & Local Community; we are thrilled to have won a $4.5 million grant for a Performing Arts Center! Thank you to New York State! We are so fortunate and thankful for the incredible efforts of all involved who helped secure the grant, it’s truly spectacular news for our community! As everyone knows, Farmingdale Village has been going through an incredible Revitalization and has become a downtown destination. Our (BID) Business Improvement District was formed in 2021, and shortly thereafter; our Downtown was designated as “the Culinary Quarter Mile”. Farmingdale Village was also voted Best LI Downtown 2025 – in the Four Leaf (Formerly BFCU), Annual contest, the last 10 out of 11 years! In the Village; we all work as a team; and there are also many Music Fests (“Music on Main, etc..); Art Shows and basically Culture Everywhere! But the one desire was always for a Cultural Arts Center! So this is the Icing on the Cake; the Farmingdale Village Cake! We are beyond thrilled and our community will be dancing in the street! (Literally!) Thank You!”

    Nassau County Legislator Scott Davis said, “Thank you, Governor Hochul, for selecting the Village of Hempstead as a recipient of the 2025 Downtown Revitalization Program Award in the amount of $10,000,000. These funds will provide much needed assistance in helping to make the vision of a vibrant downtown become a reality. I look forward to seeing the village continue on the path toward a promising future for residents and a destination for visitors.”

    Hempstead and Farmingdale will now begin the process of developing a Strategic Investment Plan to revitalize their downtowns. A Local Planning Committee made up of municipal representatives, community leaders and other stakeholders will lead the effort, supported by a team of private sector experts and state planners. The Strategic Investment Plan will guide the investment of DRI and NY Forward grant funds in revitalization projects that are poised for implementation, will advance the community’s vision for their downtown and that can leverage and expand upon the State’s investment.

    The Long Island Regional Economic Development Council conducted a thorough and competitive review process of proposals submitted from communities throughout the region and considered all criteria before recommending these communities as nominees.

    About the Downtown Revitalization Initiative
    The Downtown Revitalization Initiative was created in 2016 to accelerate and expand the revitalization of downtowns and neighborhoods in all ten regions of the state to serve as centers of activity and catalysts for investment. Led by the Department of State with assistance from Empire State Development, Homes and Community Renewal and NYSERDA, the DRI represents an unprecedented and innovative “plan-then-act” strategy that couples strategic planning with immediate implementation and results in compact, walkable downtowns that are a key ingredient to helping New York State rebuild its economy from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as to achieving the State’s bold climate goals by promoting the use of public transit and reducing dependence on private vehicles. Through eight rounds, the DRI will have awarded a total of $900 million to 89 communities across every region of the State.

    About the NY Forward Program
    First announced as part of the FY22 Enacted Budget, Governor Hochul created the NY Forward program to build on the momentum created by the DRI. The program works in concert with the DRI to accelerate and expand the revitalization of smaller and rural downtowns throughout the State so that all communities can benefit from the State’s revitalization efforts, regardless of size, character, needs and challenges.

    NY Forward communities are supported by a professional planning consultant and team of State agency experts led by DOS to develop a Strategic Investment Plan that includes a slate of transformative, complementary and readily implementable projects. NY Forward projects are appropriately scaled to the size of each community; projects may include building renovation and redevelopment, new construction or creation of new or improved public spaces and other projects that enhance specific cultural and historical qualities that define and distinguish the small-town charm that defines these municipalities. Through three rounds, the NY Forward program will have awarded a total of $300 million to 60 communities across every region of the State.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Eight GoodFellas Gang Members and Associates Charged with Violent Crimes in Aid of Racketeering, Including Attempted Murder

    Source: US State Government of Utah

    An indictment was unsealed yesterday in the Northern District of Georgia charging eight members and associates of the GoodFellas Gang for their alleged roles in a criminal enterprise engaged in attempted murder, assault with a dangerous weapon, and attempted carjacking in and around Atlanta.

    According to the indictment, the GoodFellas are a violent gang that heavily recruits members in Atlanta neighborhoods, local jails, and Georgia Department of Corrections facilities. Members engage in violence to enhance the violent reputation of the gang.

    As alleged in the indictment, six of the defendants shot and attempted to murder four victims. Additionally, two GoodFellas members and associates allegedly attempted a carjacking and assaulted three victims with a dangerous weapon.

    Frank Hubbert, also known as Capo Frank, 38; Montavis Jones, also known as Nigel Woods, Jitt, and Git, 37; Darian Sheppard, also known as Lil D, 27; De’Andre Jackson, also known as Gen, Glock, and Glizzy, 22; Ephram Marshall, also known as Lil E, 24; Tahj Rankine, also known as Biggz, 26; and Leonunte Carson, also known as Lil Tae, 22, are each charged with multiple counts of attempted murder in aid of racketeering and with using a firearm during these crimes.

    Hubbert and Ahday Nelson-George, also known as Baby K, 25, are each charged with multiple counts of assault with a dangerous weapon, and attempted carjacking.

    Seven of the defendants face a maximum penalty of life in prison; Nelson-George faces a maximum penalty of 75 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Supervisory Official Matthew R. Galeotti, head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, Acting U.S. Attorney Richard S. Moultrie Jr. for the Northern District of Georgia, and Special Agent in Charge Paul Brown of the FBI Atlanta Field Office made the announcement.

    The FBI is investigating the case with valuable assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the Fulton County (Georgia) Sheriff’s Office; Georgia Department of Corrections; and the Atlanta Police Department.

    Trial Attorney Sarah J. Rasalam of the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime and Racketeering Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren Renaud for the Northern District of Georgia 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 (TCOs) 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 (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Navicore Solutions Empowers Consumers via Credit Counseling, Filling an Essential Need in Today’s Economic Climate

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MANALAPAN, N.J., March 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — In the midst of a changing economic landscape marked by a rising cost of living, and increasing consumer uncertainty, Navicore Solutions is proud to provide its credit counseling services to help individuals and families navigate these challenging times.

    With credit card balances reaching record highs and more Americans struggling to keep up with payments, the need for proactive financial strategies is evident. Navicore Solutions recognizes this growing challenge and remains steadfast in its mission to provide comprehensive financial counseling to those who need it most.

    Inflationary pressures and the elevated cost of goods have led many to question how best to secure their financial futures. In response to these pressures, Navicore is providing tailored financial education and personalized counseling sessions that empower clients to develop sound budgeting strategies, manage debt, and safeguard against economic volatility.

    “Our mission is to equip individuals with the knowledge and tools they need to regain control over their finances during these unpredictable times,” said Michael Leon, Senior Director of Counseling at Navicore Solutions. “Credit and budget counseling offers a practical pathway to financial stability, enabling consumers to make informed decisions even as external factors influence daily expenses and overall economic sentiment.”

    By offering credit counseling, educational workshops, and one-on-one consultations, Navicore is dedicated to supporting communities as they adapt to the changing economic environment. The organization’s initiatives are designed to help clients reduce debt, improve credit scores, and build resilience against future economic challenges.

    About Navicore Solutions

    Founded in 1991, Navicore Solutions is a national leader in the field of nonprofit financial counseling with a mission to strengthen the well-being of individuals and families through education, guidance, advocacy, and support.

    Navicore counselors provide a wide range of services including credit counseling to consumers in need; education programs through workshops, courses and written material; debt management plan to provide relief for applicable consumers; student loan counseling for those struggling with student loan debt; and housing counseling services in the areas of rental, pre-purchase, default and reverse mortgage. The agency is an advocate of financial education helping communities achieve and maintain financial stability.

    Contact:
    Lori Stratford
    Digital Marketing Manager
    Navicore Solutions
    lstratford@navicoresolutions.org
    navicoresolutions.org

    The MIL Network –