NewzIntel.com

Category: Transport

  • MIL-OSI Security: Captured after 26 years on the run

    Source: Interpol (news and events)

    BUENOS AIRES, Argentina – Twenty-six years after Nancy Mestre Vargas never returned home from a New Year’s Eve outing in Barranquilla, Colombia, her killer was captured in the Brazilian city of Belo Horizonte, where he had been living under a false identity.

    Jaime Saade Cormane had been on the run ever since he raped and murdered Ms Mestre Vargas in 1994. He was one of several wanted persons targeted by INTERPOL’s Fugitive Investigative Support (FIS) unit as part of Project El PAcCTO (Europe-Latin America Assistance Programme against Transnational Organized Crime).

    21 fugitives arrested

    The latest El PAcCTO operation saw police representatives from eight countries set up camp in INTERPOL’s Regional Bureau in Buenos Aires from 21 to 25 October 2019 and focus on some of their most notorious fugitives.

    In total, 21 people subject to Red Notices were arrested in the El PAcCTO operation, including individuals wanted for crimes against children, drug trafficking, homicide and sexual offences. A further nine fugitives wanted for serious crimes were successfully located by the El PAcCTO police network.

    “Whenever police arrest a fugitive, a powerful message is delivered that no one is beyond the reach of law enforcement, no matter how far away or for how long they flee,” said INTERPOL Secretary General Jürgen Stock. “Operations like El PAcCTO demonstrate what can be achieved when investigators pool their knowledge and resources.”

    “Whenever police arrest a fugitive, a powerful message is delivered” Jürgen Stock, INTERPOL Secretary General

    A command centre for tracking fugitives

    Jaime Saade Cormane was one of more than 100 fugitive profiles initially submitted to INTERPOL by national police organizations to be targeted in the El PAcCTO operation. Following an analysis, a final list of targets was set and provided to the El PacCTO permanent fugitive network composed of investigators from each participating country.

    The team set up a command centre in INTERPOL’s Buenos Aires Regional Bureau to track the fugitives during four days of intense collaboration. For the next three months, police leveraged this work, exchanging more than 500 messages of intelligence regarding the targeted fugitives. This cooperation enabled police to locate the now 57-year-old Saade Cormane and he was apprehended by the Brazilian Federal Police on 29 January.

    Police exchanged more than 500 messages of intelligence regarding the targeted fugitives

    All of the fugitives were arrested or located thanks to the El PAcCTO operation in Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Panama, Peru, Spain, Switzerland and the United States.

    El PAcCTO is a European Union-funded cooperation programme that seeks to strengthen capacities and facilitate international cooperation. Its partnership with INTERPOL aims to create and develop a permanent mechanism for fugitive investigations across Latin America, involving Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Panama and Peru.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Hunting a fugitive in a pandemic

    Source: Interpol (news and events)

    In January 2020, Brazilian Federal Police officers arrived at the home of Gonzalo Sanchez in the coastal municipality of Angra dos Reis to find the former Argentine Navy officer had once again disappeared.

    Under house arrest after he was first tracked down and arrested in 2013, Sanchez, aged 69, was wanted by his home country for crimes against humanity and the Brazilian Supreme Court had recently authorized his extradition.

    Death flights

    As part of the notorious Task Group 3.3 charged with combating ‘subversives’, Sanchez allegedly participated in dozens of ‘forced disappearances’ during Argentina’s 1976-1983 military regime, including the killing of journalist and writer Rodolfo Walsh.  

    Victims were routinely kidnapped and brought to the Escuela Superior de Mecánica de la Armada – a Navy school which doubled as a secret detention centre – where they were interrogated, tortured and, ultimately, murdered. Many were drugged and thrown from planes into the Atlantic Ocean in so-called ‘death flights’.

    In 2009, an INTERPOL Red Notice was issued at Argentina’s request against Sanchez, who had by that point been on the run for several years. On his arrest in 2013, he was found living under a false name and providing nautical engineering services in Agra dos Reis – a reminder of his Navy past.

    INTERPOL’s Fugitive Investigative Support unit had been following the case closely since 2016 as part of Project BASIC – a coordinated effort to crack down on outstanding war criminals.

    Ideal place for a fugitive

    As soon as Brazilian Federal police discovered Sanchez was once again a fugitive, it was clear that finding him would take considerable time and effort.

    “At this moment, we realized that it would be a difficult and possibly time-consuming job, since the region of Angra dos Reis, in Rio de Janeiro state, is full of islands, hills, communities and farms. It’s an ideal place for a fugitive from justice,” said a representative from Brazil’s INTERPOL National Central Bureau (NCB) in Brasilia.

    “We realized it would be a difficult and time-consuming job. […] It’s an ideal place for a fugitive from justice.”

    A specialized team of Brazilian Federal Police officers from the INTERPOL satellite office in Rio de Janeiro was assigned exclusively to the case and sent to Angra dos Reis. A task force was established with local Federal Police officers and a 24/7 investigation began.

    The task force started with what they knew about the fugitive: he had fathered a Brazilian child and belonged to a local religious community. Being on the run and out of work also likely meant that the same family and friends who facilitated Sanchez’s escape were continuing to support him financially. Officers began a three-month surveillance and monitoring mission of Sanchez’s inner circle in of Paraty – a historic colonial municipality on the Southern border of Rio de Janeiro state.

    Family reunion

    Complicating the surveillance effort, however, was the arrival of the global COVID-19 pandemic to Brazil’s shores. The pandemic meant street circulation was down, making the presence of police harder to disguise, and restrictions on public gatherings meant that Sanchez would not be attending religious gatherings any time soon.

    On the day after Mother’s day in Brazil (10 May), the police task force received intelligence indicating that a core group of people close to Sanchez, including his seven-year-old son, were travelling up the coast to the “Taquari hinterland”. Bordering a vast mountainous nature reserve, the area was exposed with few houses, meaning a discreet police approach would be practically impossible. When the team arrived as close as they could without raising suspicion, they conferred with locals who indicated that Sanchez was hiding in a house on the outskirts of the village, closest to the nature reserve.

    Police entered the house to find Gonzalo Sanchez with his family and close friends, confirming the thesis of a family reunion. None of those present offered any resistance and Sanchez was taken into custody.

    Homecoming

    As soon as Sanchez was captured, the police reports were forwarded to NCB Brasilia, which coordinated his extradition. The INTERPOL NCBs in Brasilia and Buenos Aires had worked together closely beforehand to ensure that nothing would impede the process, including the pandemic. Due to the lack of commercial flights between the two countries in the context of COVID-19, a Brazilian Federal Police aircraft transported Sanchez to the border in Foz do Iguaçu, where he was handed over to Argentine authorities.

    “In our view, the most important part of this case was the good coordination between Brazil and Argentina that allowed the fugitive to be arrested in Rio de Janeiro on 11 May and surrendered to Argentina at the border of Foz do Iguaçu-Puerto Iguazu on 14 May – a distance of almost 1500 kilometers,” said Commissioner Bruno Samezima, Head of NCB Brasilia. “COVID-19 did not prevent police from effectively carrying out their duties.”

    “The most important part of this case was the coordination between Brazil and Argentina […]. COVID-19 did not prevent police from carrying out their duties.”

    “In the face of such a serious pandemic situation, the arrest of Sanchez truly represents the professionalism and service of law enforcement officers,” said Commissioner Edgardo Martin Moses, Head of NCB Buenos Aires. “His extradition involved a great effort and coordination between both countries to ensure he could be successfully brought before justice, while ensuring the safety and health of Argentine and Brazilian officials.”

    For Stephen Kavanagh, INTERPOL’s Executive Director of Police Services, the case is a prime example of how COVID-19 has both changed and reaffirmed the vital role of police work in a challenging context.

    “The horrific crimes which Gonzalo Sanchez is accused of occurred more than 40 years ago. And yet, when the Brazilian police received the go-ahead to locate and extradite him – in the middle of a global pandemic – they wasted no time and succeeded in a matter of months,” the INTERPOL official said.

    “It may not be ‘business as usual’ but the dedication of law enforcement to bring fugitives to justice remains the same.”

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Update on plans to safeguard heritage assets on Lower Kirkgate

    Source: City of Leeds

    Senior councillors will next week be updated on efforts to safeguard the future of key heritage assets on an historic street in Leeds city centre.

    A row of derelict privately-owned buildings on Lower Kirkgate has been cordoned off for safety reasons – and the road closed to traffic – since one of the properties suffered a partial collapse in April last year.

    Leeds City Council is intending to carry out a 16-week programme of stabilisation work on the buildings after their current owners – two linked companies called City Fusion and Kirkgate Land Residential – failed to take the necessary steps to make them safe. It will then seek, as is its legal right, to recover the cost of this work from the companies.

    The council is separately seeking to acquire the properties with a view to them being fully restored and brought back into meaningful long-term use, complementing the regeneration activity that has been successfully delivered elsewhere on Lower Kirkgate.

    Now a new report – due to be considered at a meeting of the council’s executive board next Wednesday, July 16 – has set out how these parallel courses of action are proceeding.

    The report confirms that the council is in continuing negotiations with City Fusion and Kirkgate Land Residential over its proposed purchase of the properties.

    It also confirms that a market value offer – based on an independent valuation undertaken in line with the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors’ Red Book Global Standards framework – for the buildings has been made by the council but to date this has not been accepted.

    As a result, next week’s executive board meeting will be asked to approve the development by the council of a case for the potential compulsory purchase of the buildings.

    A compulsory purchase would only be pursued as a tool of last resort if a negotiated sale cannot be agreed and no other options remain available that would enable the full restoration of the properties.

    Any formal decision – or resolution – on the use of compulsory purchase powers would be reserved until a future and as-yet unspecified meeting of executive board.

    The report also confirms that the council hopes to be in a position to complete its 16-week programme of stabilisation work on the buildings by the end of 2025.

    With detailed designs for this work close to being finalised, it is anticipated that a start on site should be possible during August.

    An update on plans for the reopening of the road after the work has been completed will be provided in due course.

    Councillor Jonathan Pryor, Leeds City Council’s deputy leader and executive member for economy, transport and sustainable development, said:

    “The situation on Lower Kirkgate is a complex one and clearly remains a major source of frustration and concern for local residents and businesses.

    “We are determined to find a solution to the issues affecting this historic street, where important heritage assets have been allowed to fall into a serious state of disrepair.

    “It should be stressed that, at the current moment in time, the at-risk buildings are not owned by the council.

    “We are, however, acutely aware of the need to protect the 18th and 19th-century fabric of Lower Kirkgate.

    “It is against this backdrop that we are continuing to pursue the separate but parallel courses of action outlined in the report to next week’s executive board meeting.”

    The report also sets out how the council attempted – for more than a decade – to facilitate improvements to the buildings.

    Key to these improvements would have been the award of grant support from a council-backed regeneration scheme called the Lower Kirkgate Townscape Heritage Initiative (THI).

    Despite its best efforts, however, the council was unable to formally agree terms for this award of THI funding before the scheme came to an end last year.

    THI grants helped drive the restoration of a number of other buildings on Lower Kirkgate, including the Grade II-listed First White Cloth Hall, as well as a fundamental redesign of the local street-scene.

    The report that will be considered at next week’s executive board meeting can be found in full at item number 16 here.

    Notes to editors:

    City Fusion and Kirkgate Land Residential were served with an urgent works notice by Leeds City Council in February this year.

    This legal document gave the companies 28 days to start a programme of stabilisation work on a number of at-risk buildings owned by them on Lower Kirkgate.

    Their failure to meet the deadline for compliance means the council – using statutory powers granted to local authorities by the Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990 – has the right to carry out the work itself. The drawing up of detailed designs for this work began in March.

    Planning regulations required the council to secure permission from the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport before the urgent works notice could be issued.

    Approval was granted by the Secretary of State in December following an application made by the council in August 2024.

    The buildings currently pose no threat to public safety, with protective hoardings being placed in front of them following last April’s partial collapse. The ‘buffer zone’ created by the hoardings means that Lower Kirkgate is currently closed to traffic.

    ENDS

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Approval set to be a blur as Leeds council chiefs all go hand in hand to back £23.9m new Parklife sports hubs

    Source: City of Leeds

    New sports facilities set for Woodhall in Calverley and Green Park in Temple Newsam

    Senior councillors in Leeds are set to give a final green light next week to a £23.9million investment in two new sports hubs in the city.

    At the meeting of the council’s executive board at Civic Hall on Wednesday 16 July, councillors are expected to approve work starting on new sports pitches and supporting pavilion facilities at Woodhall in Calverley and Green Park in Temple Newsam.

    The plans for the sites have been developed by Leeds City Council in partnership with the Football Foundation as part of their national Parklife (Sports Hubs) programme, which aims to increase the number of third generation artificial grass pitches in the country.  

    At each site, three new full-sized pitches with floodlighting will be created for football and rugby use along with other play areas, biodiversity habitats, landscaping and parking. The Green Park site will also include a large multi-use hard court space that can be used for accessible or wheelchair sports or those sports needing a hard surface such as hockey or basketball. It will also offer walking and running routes in a park setting to encourage active lifestyles.

    Both sites will also feature a new sports pavilion building providing a café and meeting space together with ancillary features such as toilets and changing rooms, including Changing Places toilet facilities.

    The plans have been refined and developed following consultation with the public, local sports clubs, disability groups and local councillors, with changes made to accommodate feedback received.

    The new hubs are to be funded by Leeds City Council, the Football Foundation, Section 106 developer contributions and private sector funding. Proposals are also being developed for a possible third site at the former Matthew Murray High School in Holbeck, with further details on those plans to follow.

    If approved, work would begin at Woodhall in August to be completed in a year with the new facilities open the end of August 2026. At Green Park initial ecological works would begin in August before construction starting in October, with the new pitches ready for play in August 2026 and the new sports pavilion opening the following month.

    Once opened the hubs will be managed by the National Football Trust, a not-for-profit organisation, with all surplus income generated to be reinvested in outdoor sports facilities across Leeds.

    Leeds City Council executive member for adult social care, active lifestyles and culture Councillor Salma Arif said:

    “These new facilities look fantastic and this project represents a significant investment in helping encourage people of all ages to live active and healthy lifestyles. Not only will they offer superb new sports facilities, these hubs will become focal points for entire communities to make use of and enjoy, so we look forward to seeing them created and open next year. We are delighted to be working with the Football Foundation, National Football Trust and all partners and stakeholders in making this wonderful project a reality.”

    To see the report being considered by the executive board visit Council and democracy (agenda item 6).

     

    ENDS

     

    For media enquiries please contact:

    Leeds City Council communications and marketing,

    Email: communicationsteam@leeds.gov.uk

    Tel: 0113 378 6007

     

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: Crédit Agricole Assurances announces the launch of an accelerated bookbuilding offering of its whole stake in FDJ United

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Crédit Agricole Assurances announces the launch of an accelerated bookbuilding offering of its whole stake in FDJ United

    8 July 2025 – Crédit Agricole Assurances (“CAA”), which, via its wholly-owned subsidiaries Predica and Crédit Agricole Assurances Retraite, currently owns 6,110,156 shares of FDJ United (the “Company”), representing approximately 3.3% of the Company’s share capital and 4.5% of its voting rights, announces the launch of an offering of its whole stake in FDJ United (the “Shares”). These Shares will be offered as part of an accelerated bookbuilding offering to institutional investors (the “Placement”).

    CAA has been a shareholder of FDJ United, an international gaming operator, since its IPO in November 2019 and has supported the Company throughout its development, including the successful recent acquisition of Kindred. CAA completed an initial sale of c. 4.1 million shares in November 2024 as part of its strategy of actively managing its investment portfolio. Upon completion of the Placement, CAA will no longer be a shareholder of the Company.

    The Placement will start immediately following this announcement. The final terms of the Placement will be determined and announced after the end of the bookbuilding process.

    Settlement of the Placement should take place on 11 July 2025.

    FDJ United’s shares are listed on the regulated market of Euronext in Paris (ISIN code: FR0013451333).

    This press release does not constitute an offer or solicitation to purchase and the offering of the shares in FDJ United does not constitute a public offering (except to institutional investors) in any country, including in France.

    Crédit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank and Morgan Stanley Europe SE are acting as Global Coordinators and Bookrunners on the Placement.

    About Crédit Agricole Assurances
    Crédit Agricole Assurances, France’s leading insurer, is Crédit Agricole group’s subsidiary, which brings together all the insurance businesses of Crédit Agricole S.A. Crédit Agricole Assurances offers a range of products and services in savings, retirement, health, personal protection and property insurance. They are distributed by Crédit Agricole’s banks in France and in 9 countries worldwide, and are aimed at individual, professional, agricultural and business customers. At the end of 2024, Crédit Agricole Assurances had more than 6,700 employees. Its 2024 premium income (non-GAAP) amounted to 43.6 billion euros.
    www.ca-assurances.com

    Press contacts
    Géraldine Bailacq +33 (0)6 81 75 87 59
    Nicolas Leviaux +33 (0)6 19 60 48 53
    Julien Badé +33 (0)7 85 18 68 05
    service.presse@ca-assurances.fr

    Disclaimer

    This press release is for information purposes only and does not, and shall not, constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy or subscribe any securities nor a solicitation to offer to purchase or to subscribe securities in any jurisdiction and does not constitute a public offer other than the offering to qualified investors in any jurisdiction, including France.

    The sale of FDJ United shares does not constitute a public offering other than to qualified investors in any jurisdiction, including in France.

    No communication and no information in respect of the sale by Crédit Agricole Assurances of FDJ United shares may be distributed to the public in any jurisdiction where a registration or approval is required. No steps have been or will be taken in any jurisdiction where such steps would be required. The offer of sale of FDJ United shares on behalf of Crédit Agricole Assurances may be subject to specific legal or regulatory restrictions in certain jurisdictions. Crédit Agricole Assurances, its shareholders and affiliates take no responsibility for any violation of any such restrictions by any person.

    European Economic Area
    In member states of the European Economic Area, this press release is an advertisement and is not a prospectus with the meaning of Regulation (EU) 2017/1129 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 14 June 2017, as amended (the “Prospectus Regulation”).

    With respect to the member states of the European Economic Area other than France (the “Member States”), no action has been or will be taken in order to permit a public offer of the securities which would require the publication of a prospectus in one of such Member States. In Member States, this communication and any offer if made subsequently is directed exclusively at persons who are “qualified investors” within the meaning of Article 2(e) of the Prospectus Regulation.

    France
    In France, the offer of FDJ United shares described in this press release will be carried out through a placement through an accelerated bookbuilding process to qualified investors only within the meaning of Article 2(e) of the Prospectus Regulation and in accordance with applicable French laws and regulations. There will be no public offering in any country (including France) in connection with the shares of FDJ United, except to qualified investors only.

    United Kingdom
    In the United Kingdom, this communication is for distribution to, and is only directed at, persons in the United Kingdom that (i) are “investment professionals” falling within article 19(5) of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Financial Promotion) Order 2005 (as amended, the “Order”), (ii) are persons falling within article 49(2)(a) to (d) (“high net worth companies, unincorporated associations, etc.”) of the Order, or (iii) are located outside the United kingdom, or (iv) are persons to whom an invitation or inducement to engage in investment activity (within the meaning of Article 21 of the Order) in connection with the issue or sale of any securities may otherwise lawfully be communicated or cause to be communicated (all such persons together being referred to as “Relevant Persons”). This press release is only directed at Relevant Persons and are available only to Relevant Persons. Any person who is not a Relevant Person must act or rely on this document or any of its contents.

    Any investment or investment activity to which this document relates is available only to Relevant Persons and will be engaged in only with Relevant Persons. Any person who is not a Relevant Person shall not act or rely on this document or any of its contents.

    With respect to the United Kingdom, securities may not be offered or sold absent the publication of a prospectus in the United Kingdom or an exemption from such publication under the Regulation (EU) 2017/1129, as amended, as it forms part of domestic law by virtue of the European Union (Withdrawal Act) 2018 (the “UK Prospectus Regulation”). As a consequence, this document is directed only at persons who are “qualified investors” as defined in point (e) of Article 2 of the UK Prospectus Regulation.
    This press release is not a prospectus which has been approved by the Financial Conduct Authority or any other United Kingdom regulatory authority for the purpose of Section 85 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000.

    United States
    This press release does not constitute or form part of any offer or solicitation to purchase or subscribe for securities in the United States. Securities referred to in this announcement have not been, and will not be, registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933 (the “Securities Act”) and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent such registration or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements of the Securities Act. FDJ United shares have not been and will not be registered under the Securities Act and neither Crédit Agricole Assurances, nor any of its shareholders or their respective affiliates intend to register any portion of the proposed offering in the United States or to conduct a public offering in the United States.

    Australia
    This press release is not a prospectus or product disclosure statement under the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth) (the “Corporations Act”) and does not constitute a recommendation to acquire, an invitation to apply for, an offer to apply for or buy, an offer to arrange the issue or sale of, or an offer for issue or sale of, any securities in Australia except as set out below. Interests may only be offered, issued, sold or distributed in Australia by way of or pursuant to an offer or invitation that does not need disclosure to investors either under Part 7.9 or Part 6D.2 of the Corporations Act, whether by reason of the investor being a ‘sophisticated investor’ or ‘wholesale client’ (as defined in section 708(8) and 761G of the Corporations Act respectively) or otherwise. Nothing in this press release constitutes an offer of interests or financial product advice to a ‘retail client’ (as defined in section 761G of the Corporations Act and applicable regulations). Accordingly, this press release has not been lodged with the Australian Securities and Investments Commissions (“ASIC”). Neither the Placement nor the contents of this press release have been approved by ASIC or any regulatory body or agency in Australia.

    Canada, Japan and South Africa
    The FDJ United shares may not and will not be offered, sold or purchase in Canada, Japan or South Africa. The information contained in this press release does not constitute an offer of securities for sale in Canada, Japan or South Africa.

    The release, publication or distribution of this press release generally may be restricted by law in certain jurisdictions and persons into whose possession this document or other information referred to herein should inform themselves about and observe any such restriction. No action has been taken to allow offer of FDJ United shares or distribution of this press release in any jurisdiction where any such action would be required. Any failure to comply with these restrictions may constitute a violation of the securities laws of any such jurisdiction.

    Any investment decision to purchase FDJ United shares must be made solely on the basis of publicly available information regarding FDJ United. Such information is not the responsibility of Crédit Agricole Assurances and has not been independently verified by Crédit Agricole Assurances.

    The global coordinators and bookrunners are acting on behalf of Crédit Agricole Assurances (to the exclusion of all others) in connection with the placement and will not be liable to any person other than Crédit Agricole Assurances either for warranties given to clients of the global coordinators and bookrunners or for advice in connection with the placement.

    Neither the global coordinators and bookrunners nor any of its directors, officers, employees, advisors or agents accept any responsibility for, or make any representations or warranty, express or implied, as to the accuracy or completeness of the information contained in this press release (or if any information has been omitted from this press release) or any other information relating to FDJ United, Crédit Agricole Assurances, their respective subsidiaries or associated companies, whether in written, oral, visual or electronic form, and however transmitted or made available, or any loss from the use of this press release or its contents or otherwise.

    Distribution, publication or release of this press release are forbidden in any jurisdiction where such distribution or release would be unlawful.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: SEMCAP Food & Nutrition Announces Investment in Fresh Prep, Canada’s Leading, Locally-Led Meal Subscription Service

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Growth Equity Investor Becomes Large Minority Shareholder to Support Brand’s Rapid National Expansion and Sustainability Leadership

    VANCOUVER, BC & WAYNE, Pa. , July 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — SEMCAP Food & Nutrition, a growth equity investment firm focused on identifying and growing the purpose-driven food and nutrition brands of the future, announces a large minority investment in Fresh Prep, a proudly Canadian-founded and operated, B Corp-certified meal subscription service known for its zero-waste innovation, strong customer loyalty, and commitment to sustainability. This investment aligns with SEMCAP’s vision of supporting sustainable, high-performing food brands across North America, and Fresh Prep joins a prestigious portfolio of industry leaders, including ALOHA, good culture, Kite Hill and Purely Elizabeth.

    “Fresh Prep is a perfect addition to our portfolio as we invest behind innovative food companies that support sustainable modern health and a better future for food,” said Kate Storey, Partner at SEMCAP Food & Nutrition. “Unlike competitors who have faced challenges in the meal-delivery space, the Fresh Prep team has emerged as a shining light with an unwavering focus on delivering incredible, unmatched quality and truly empowering consumers with food that fits their lifestyle, budget, and goals which has resulted in tremendous, profitable growth. Prioritizing innovation, automation and sustainability, with the launch of their zero-waste kits, is clearly a recipe for profitability, driving more than C$100 million in annual revenue and 40-percent CAGR over the past 5 years. We look forward to delivering the support to help the company with its national expansion and east coast launch in Quebec and Ontario and further accelerating this rapid growth.”

    As part of this minority investment, Storey, a Vancouver local, will join Fresh Prep’s Board of Directors, to support the founding team at the helm of this Canadian-operated company. SEMCAP brings complementary operational expertise and its network of food-focused advisors to help scale Fresh Prep’s impact while preserving its identity, mission and day-to-day operations. This additional support will help Fresh Prep maintain its laser-focus on driving continuous improvement and customer value, including by expanding its delivery footprint and increasing basket size with its ready-to-eat line of products and curated grocery staples available through the Fresh Prep Market. SEMCAP joins a seasoned group of investors supporting Fresh Prep’s growth. This includes Renewal Funds, who both led the Series A and participated in the Series B round, as well as Longo Family Capital Corporation, who also participated in both rounds.

    “With extensive operational expertise in the food and nutrition space and an impact-driven investment strategy, SEMCAP Food & Nutrition is the ideal partner for our next phase of growth,” said Dhruv Sood Co-CEO of Fresh Prep. “Kate and the team are completely aligned with our mission, immediately recognizing sustainability as an important differentiator in our space. We look forward to tapping the operational expertise within SEMCAP’s platform and broader network to help accelerate the expansion of the Fresh Prep brand and work to maintain high double-digit topline growth this year and beyond.”

    Fresh Prep was founded by three life-long friends Becky Brauer, Dhruv Sood, and Husein Rahemtulla in 2015, while trying to answer the familiar question, “What’s for dinner?” They understood the daily struggles of busy people trying to cook wholesome meals at home, and while conventional meal kits offered convenience, they also generated excess packaging and waste. With an unwavering commitment to delighting their customers and driving continuous innovation, the team founded a very different kind of meal-kit service, differentiated from the start by its patented ‘Zero Waste’ food kits – that were made for convenience and sustainability. Fresh Prep’s success was also built on a dedicated delivery fleet, which enables tighter quality control, more convenient delivery windows and real-time tracking for its customers. The company is able to offset carbon emissions which means net zero emissions deliveries.

    SEMCAP was founded in 2020 by Walter (“Buck”) Buckley and Cyrus Vandrevala to invest in companies at the forefront of seminal trends in sectors that have the greatest impact on humanity – food, health and, most recently, AI. SEMCAP’s Food & Nutrition platform is led by John Haugen, Ryan Newcom, and Kate Storey. The team invests in environmentally sustainable, high-growth businesses with more than $25 million in revenue and category-leading products that have achieved proof of concept and evidence of scale.

    “With the strength of its management team and track record of profitable growth, it would be hard to find a better example than Fresh Prep of what we’re looking for as we execute against our cross-border investment strategy,” said Haugen. “We’re seeing consumers fuel a massive food revolution across North America and this seismic shift presents an incredible opportunity for our Food & Nutrition platform to identify and help scale the food and nutrition brands of the future.”

    About Fresh Prep

    Fresh Prep is a Canadian meal subscription service on a mission to make sustainable, high-quality meals more accessible to busy households. Each week, customers can choose from 35+ ready-to-cook and ready-to-eat meals, plus over 150 grocery staples, from quick breakfasts to effortless dinners.

    Founded in Vancouver in 2015, Fresh Prep delivers across British Columbia, Alberta, Ontario, and Quebec. Meals arrive in reusable cooler bags and many recipes come in patented Zero Waste Kits designed to reduce single-use plastic.

    Fresh Prep is the first Canadian meal subscription service to become a Certified B Corporation, balancing purpose and profit.

    Learn more at www.freshprep.ca.

    About SEMCAP Food & Nutrition

    SEMCAP Food & Nutrition invests in remarkable food companies that support sustainable modern health and a better future for food. Led by a highly skilled investment team with deep operating and investing experience in consumer packaged goods, the team provides unique deal insight and support for strategic partnering and enhanced growth. SEMCAP Food & Nutrition, with offices in Vancouver and Philadelphia, partners with companies whose products emphasize organic, natural, non-GMO, and low-carbon foods as well as efficient supply chain and delivery and low-waste packaging. SEMCAP Food & Nutrition is one of SEMCAP’s three platforms – AI, healthcare, and food. SEMCAP is a growth equity company committed to investing behind seminal trends in these sectors that have the greatest impact on society. Visit www.semcap.com for more information.

    This release is provided for informational purposes only, and does not constitute investment advice, a recommendation or an offer or solicitation to purchase or sell any securities to any person in any jurisdiction in which an offer, solicitation, purchase or sale would be unlawful under the securities laws of such jurisdiction. This material may contain estimates and forward-looking statements, which may include forecasts and do not represent a guarantee of future performance. This information is not intended to be complete or exhaustive and no representations or warranties, either express or implied, are made regarding the accuracy or completeness of the information contained herein. The views expressed are as of July 8, 2025 and are subject to change without notice. Reliance upon information in this material is at the sole discretion of the reader. Investing involves significant risks. 

    ©2025 Seminal Capital Holdings, LLC. All rights reserved. SEMCAP is a trademark of Seminal Capital Holdings, LLC.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: SEMCAP Food & Nutrition Announces Investment in Fresh Prep, Canada’s Leading, Locally-Led Meal Subscription Service

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Growth Equity Investor Becomes Large Minority Shareholder to Support Brand’s Rapid National Expansion and Sustainability Leadership

    VANCOUVER, BC & WAYNE, Pa. , July 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — SEMCAP Food & Nutrition, a growth equity investment firm focused on identifying and growing the purpose-driven food and nutrition brands of the future, announces a large minority investment in Fresh Prep, a proudly Canadian-founded and operated, B Corp-certified meal subscription service known for its zero-waste innovation, strong customer loyalty, and commitment to sustainability. This investment aligns with SEMCAP’s vision of supporting sustainable, high-performing food brands across North America, and Fresh Prep joins a prestigious portfolio of industry leaders, including ALOHA, good culture, Kite Hill and Purely Elizabeth.

    “Fresh Prep is a perfect addition to our portfolio as we invest behind innovative food companies that support sustainable modern health and a better future for food,” said Kate Storey, Partner at SEMCAP Food & Nutrition. “Unlike competitors who have faced challenges in the meal-delivery space, the Fresh Prep team has emerged as a shining light with an unwavering focus on delivering incredible, unmatched quality and truly empowering consumers with food that fits their lifestyle, budget, and goals which has resulted in tremendous, profitable growth. Prioritizing innovation, automation and sustainability, with the launch of their zero-waste kits, is clearly a recipe for profitability, driving more than C$100 million in annual revenue and 40-percent CAGR over the past 5 years. We look forward to delivering the support to help the company with its national expansion and east coast launch in Quebec and Ontario and further accelerating this rapid growth.”

    As part of this minority investment, Storey, a Vancouver local, will join Fresh Prep’s Board of Directors, to support the founding team at the helm of this Canadian-operated company. SEMCAP brings complementary operational expertise and its network of food-focused advisors to help scale Fresh Prep’s impact while preserving its identity, mission and day-to-day operations. This additional support will help Fresh Prep maintain its laser-focus on driving continuous improvement and customer value, including by expanding its delivery footprint and increasing basket size with its ready-to-eat line of products and curated grocery staples available through the Fresh Prep Market. SEMCAP joins a seasoned group of investors supporting Fresh Prep’s growth. This includes Renewal Funds, who both led the Series A and participated in the Series B round, as well as Longo Family Capital Corporation, who also participated in both rounds.

    “With extensive operational expertise in the food and nutrition space and an impact-driven investment strategy, SEMCAP Food & Nutrition is the ideal partner for our next phase of growth,” said Dhruv Sood Co-CEO of Fresh Prep. “Kate and the team are completely aligned with our mission, immediately recognizing sustainability as an important differentiator in our space. We look forward to tapping the operational expertise within SEMCAP’s platform and broader network to help accelerate the expansion of the Fresh Prep brand and work to maintain high double-digit topline growth this year and beyond.”

    Fresh Prep was founded by three life-long friends Becky Brauer, Dhruv Sood, and Husein Rahemtulla in 2015, while trying to answer the familiar question, “What’s for dinner?” They understood the daily struggles of busy people trying to cook wholesome meals at home, and while conventional meal kits offered convenience, they also generated excess packaging and waste. With an unwavering commitment to delighting their customers and driving continuous innovation, the team founded a very different kind of meal-kit service, differentiated from the start by its patented ‘Zero Waste’ food kits – that were made for convenience and sustainability. Fresh Prep’s success was also built on a dedicated delivery fleet, which enables tighter quality control, more convenient delivery windows and real-time tracking for its customers. The company is able to offset carbon emissions which means net zero emissions deliveries.

    SEMCAP was founded in 2020 by Walter (“Buck”) Buckley and Cyrus Vandrevala to invest in companies at the forefront of seminal trends in sectors that have the greatest impact on humanity – food, health and, most recently, AI. SEMCAP’s Food & Nutrition platform is led by John Haugen, Ryan Newcom, and Kate Storey. The team invests in environmentally sustainable, high-growth businesses with more than $25 million in revenue and category-leading products that have achieved proof of concept and evidence of scale.

    “With the strength of its management team and track record of profitable growth, it would be hard to find a better example than Fresh Prep of what we’re looking for as we execute against our cross-border investment strategy,” said Haugen. “We’re seeing consumers fuel a massive food revolution across North America and this seismic shift presents an incredible opportunity for our Food & Nutrition platform to identify and help scale the food and nutrition brands of the future.”

    About Fresh Prep

    Fresh Prep is a Canadian meal subscription service on a mission to make sustainable, high-quality meals more accessible to busy households. Each week, customers can choose from 35+ ready-to-cook and ready-to-eat meals, plus over 150 grocery staples, from quick breakfasts to effortless dinners.

    Founded in Vancouver in 2015, Fresh Prep delivers across British Columbia, Alberta, Ontario, and Quebec. Meals arrive in reusable cooler bags and many recipes come in patented Zero Waste Kits designed to reduce single-use plastic.

    Fresh Prep is the first Canadian meal subscription service to become a Certified B Corporation, balancing purpose and profit.

    Learn more at www.freshprep.ca.

    About SEMCAP Food & Nutrition

    SEMCAP Food & Nutrition invests in remarkable food companies that support sustainable modern health and a better future for food. Led by a highly skilled investment team with deep operating and investing experience in consumer packaged goods, the team provides unique deal insight and support for strategic partnering and enhanced growth. SEMCAP Food & Nutrition, with offices in Vancouver and Philadelphia, partners with companies whose products emphasize organic, natural, non-GMO, and low-carbon foods as well as efficient supply chain and delivery and low-waste packaging. SEMCAP Food & Nutrition is one of SEMCAP’s three platforms – AI, healthcare, and food. SEMCAP is a growth equity company committed to investing behind seminal trends in these sectors that have the greatest impact on society. Visit www.semcap.com for more information.

    This release is provided for informational purposes only, and does not constitute investment advice, a recommendation or an offer or solicitation to purchase or sell any securities to any person in any jurisdiction in which an offer, solicitation, purchase or sale would be unlawful under the securities laws of such jurisdiction. This material may contain estimates and forward-looking statements, which may include forecasts and do not represent a guarantee of future performance. This information is not intended to be complete or exhaustive and no representations or warranties, either express or implied, are made regarding the accuracy or completeness of the information contained herein. The views expressed are as of July 8, 2025 and are subject to change without notice. Reliance upon information in this material is at the sole discretion of the reader. Investing involves significant risks. 

    ©2025 Seminal Capital Holdings, LLC. All rights reserved. SEMCAP is a trademark of Seminal Capital Holdings, LLC.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Solutions30 Appoints Arno Janssen as CEO in the Netherlands, Following Recent Leadership Reinforcements Across Europe

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Solutions30, the European leader in multi-technical field services for the telecommunications, energy, and digital sectors, announces the appointment of Arno Janssen as CEO of its operations in the Netherlands. This appointment follows the recent strengthening of its leadership team, including the nominations of Antoine Mirabel (France), Oliver Fidorra (Germany), and Axel Vandevenne (Belgium).

    Arno Janssen brings extensive international experience, having held several senior leadership positions at Bosch Building Technologies, with a strong focus on management development, sales and marketing. In his previous roles, Arno has led growing organisations and M&A activities in the market of building technologies for sectors like public transport, government and industry. He holds degrees in Mechanical Engineering and Marketing, and is known for his passion for technology and people development.

    Luc Brusselaers, Chief Revenue Officer and member of the Management Board, stated “Arno joins Solutions30 at a pivotal time, as we reinforce our leadership across Europe. His experience and vision will play a key role in our continued success as we expand our presence in the building technology market in the Netherlands. Arno strengthens our leadership team, particularly at a time when we are intensifying our activities in the Power Grid sector, solidifying our role as a strategic partner in energy infrastructure modernization that supports the energy transition and the increase in grid capacity.”

    About Solutions30 SE

    Solutions30’s mission is to make the technological developments that are transforming our daily lives accessible to everyone, individuals and businesses alike, especially with regard to the digital transformation and the energy transition. With its network of more than 16,000 technicians, Solutions30 has completed over 65 million call-outs since its inception and led over 500 renewable energy projects with a combined maximum output surpassing 1800 MWp. Every day, Solutions30 is doing its part to build a more connected and sustainable world. Solutions30 has become an industry leader in Europe with operations in 10 countries: France, Italy, Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg, Spain, Portugal, the United Kingdom, and Poland. The capital of Solutions30 SE consists of 107,127,984 shares, equal to the number of theoretical votes that can be exercised. Solutions30 SE is listed on the Euronext Paris exchange (ISIN FR0013379484- code S30). Indices : CAC Mid & Small | CAC Small | CAC Technology | Euro Stoxx Total Market Technology | Euronext Tech Croissance.

    Visit our website to learn more: www.solutions30.com

    Contact

    Individual Shareholders:

    actionnaires@solutions30.com – Tel: +33 1 86 86 00 63

    Analysts/Investors:
      investor.relations@solutions30.com

    Press – Image 7:
     Charlotte Le Barbier – Tel: +33 6 78 37 27 60 – clebarbier@image7.fr

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: B.C. proposes ban on exotic cat ownership

    The Province is proposing regulation changes that would ban the breeding, sale and future ownership of all non-native and non-domestic cat species.

    While lions, tigers, jaguars, leopards and cheetahs are already regulated in B.C., other exotic cat species are not, allowing them to be kept as pets. Animal-welfare organizations and wildlife experts with long-standing concerns have called for regulatory measures to address the public-safety and environmental risks posed by exotic cats.

    If approved, all exotic and non-domesticated cat species would be added to the list of approximately 1,200 species already designated as “controlled alien species” under the Controlled Alien Species Regulation in the Wildlife Act. This includes, but is not limited to, servals, caracals, ocelots, European and African wildcats, Asian golden cats, fishing cats, jungle cats and marbled cats.

    This change would provide consistent and enforceable guidelines to strengthen protections for communities, native wildlife, ecosystems, pets and exotic cats themselves.

    It would also allow current owners to keep their exotic cats for the remainder of the animal’s life, provided they apply for a free permit and meet basic care and safety requirements. However, breeding, selling or acquiring new animals from these species would no longer be permitted.

    The Ministry of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship will continue to engage with the public as the proposed amendments move forward. To ask a question or comment on these proposed changes, email: controlledalienspecies@gov.bc.ca.

    Learn More:

    For more information about controlled alien species in B.C., visit: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/environment/plants-animals-ecosystems/cas

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK approach to freedom of religion or belief: Lord Collins’ speech, July 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 3

    Speech

    UK approach to freedom of religion or belief: Lord Collins’ speech, July 2025

    Minister responsible for human rights, Lord Collins of Highbury, gave a speech at an event outlining the UK’s approach to freedom of religion or belief.

    Welcome everyone. It’s great to see you all this morning.

    It was here in this magnificent room last year that the Foreign Secretary and I set out the United Kingdom’s approach to human rights and governance.  

    A few days later, the Prime Minister appointed David Smith MP as the UK’s Special Envoy for Freedom of Religion or Belief – or FoRB.

    Thank you to David for the energy and commitment he has brought to the role over the last 7 months.

    Before I hand over to him to outline our approach to freedom of religion or belief, I want to reflect on why it matters so deeply to the UK and how we’re making a difference.

    Many of you will know that this is a cause I have championed for a long time. As the Foreign Secretary has said, the rights and freedoms of individuals must be front and centre of all our work.

    We promote human rights, including FoRB, not just because it is in our national interest but also because it is the right thing to do. Human rights, the rule of law and good governance are not just ideals we aspire to. They are the foundations that drive this government’s missions.  

    The evidence is clear. Countries that uphold rights and the rule of law tend to be more stable, more prosperous and more resilient. That’s why I wrote to all Heads of Mission last month, underlining the importance of embedding our human rights priorities into every aspect of our work.

    Doing so supports our partners, strengthens our alliances, and helps us tackle shared challenges, whether that’s conflict, climate, growth or migration. And I encouraged our diplomats to draw on the expertise of our dedicated Special Envoys, including David.

    As you know, the right to freedom of religion or belief sits at the heart of our human rights approach and is central to the UK’s foreign policy. Because championing FoRB is about championing equal rights for all.  

    We know that where this freedom is under threat, other rights are often at risk too. And we know that violations disproportionately affect women and minorities.

    So this is about standing up for people who face discrimination, harassment, or even violence, simply for what they do, or do not, believe. 

    Article 18 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights affirms that everyone has the right to freedom of thought, conscience, and religion.

    But these rights still remain out of reach for too many people. From Uyghurs in China, to Church members in Nicaragua, to religious and ethnic minorities caught up in Sudan’s civil war, and Ukrainians under siege by Russia, persecution and repression are a daily reality.

    We know this work is complex. There is no one size fits all. In that context, we must prioritise approaches that deliver results on the ground. Sometimes that requires speaking out publicly. Sometimes it means engaging privately. We have and will continue to do both.

    We are not afraid to raise issues and we do so regularly. But we also know that real progress comes through partnership. That’s why we work with others across governments, civil society, and multilateral institutions, to find common ground and deliver change.  

    Earlier this year, I was relieved to hear of the release of Mubarak Bala, a Nigerian atheist and president of the Humanist Association of Nigeria. He had been imprisoned for sharing posts on Facebook which allegedly insulted the prophet Muhammad. His release was the result of a long running campaign by Humanists International, which the UK was pleased to support, along with many of you here today.  

    Similarly, I know many of you were actively seeking the release of Pastor Lorenzo Rosales Fajardo in Cuba, jailed for peaceful protest. Our Foreign Secretary wrote an open letter to him in December to express solidarity and publicly call on the Cuban authorities to release him. And we were delighted to hear of his release in January.  

    These are powerful reminders that our collective efforts can have real impact. And we must also learn from the past to meet the challenges of the present. That’s why the UK was proud to hold the presidency of the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance over the last year.

    We used our initiative to lead international efforts to promote Holocaust remembrance, tackle distortion, strengthen the fight against antisemitism, and ensure that future generations remember the lessons of the past. This is exactly the kind of collaboration essential for making FoRB a reality for all.

    So let me end by reaffirming this government’s commitment. We will use the strength of our global network to protect and promote freedom of religion or belief. We will work with all of you, across sectors and borders, to turn principles into progress.

    Because only by working together can we build a world where everyone, everywhere, can live with dignity, free to believe – or not believe – without fear.

    Thank you.

    Updates to this page

    Published 8 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: $3M Awarded to Integrate EV Into the Grid

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul today announced $3 million has been awarded to three projects to advance technologies that can help integrate electric vehicles efficiently into the electric grid. The Governor has also made available $4 million to advance technologies that overcome data collection, transmission and operational challenges faced by utilities to manage electric vehicle (EV) charging. Together, these solutions will help to enhance grid flexibility, shift charging to accommodate energy demand, and lower charging costs for consumers.

    “New York is leading the way in building a smarter, more sustainable energy future,” Governor Hochul said. “By investing in innovative technologies that support EV charging and integration with the grid, we are strengthening our clean energy infrastructure to meet the demands of tomorrow. We are also improving grid resiliency while making it easier and more affordable for New Yorkers to drive electric.”

    The $3 million has been awarded to three projects through the Vehicle Grid Integration Program, administered by the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA), which provides funding for projects that are scalable and advance electric vehicle charging infrastructure through product development, technology demonstrations, or new business models. Technologies include bi-directional charging, energy storage, on-site energy generation, and EV managed charging.

    New York State Energy Research and Development Authority President and CEO Doreen M. Harris said, “Investing in vehicle to grid integration is a game changer for utilities and consumers when it comes to balancing demand on the electric grid and these awarded companies have put forward innovative solutions to improve the way we achieve that balance. Advancing technologies that can shift when electric vehicle charging happens will open the door for future cost reductions, more renewable energy resources like wind and solar, increased grid flexibility and fewer infrastructure upgrades.”

    The awarded projects include:

    • Charging Platform Lamppost Conduit Interconnection: Voltpost was awarded $775,000 to develop lamppost EV charging in the New York City area, Capital Region, and Hudson Valley focusing on UL certification, retrofits, and plans to deploy at least ten additional Level 2 charging stations in New York State.
    • Demonstrating Statewide Implementations of Flexible Interconnections for Fleets: The Mobility House was awarded $867,000 to show how utility distribution capacity can be maximized with flexible interconnections to support electric school bus charging at a depot in Staten Island and a second location yet to be determined in New York State to pilot a method for fast charger deployment that decouples charger construction from electric grid development timelines.
    • Distribution-Optimized EV Managed Charging to Enhance Grid Flexibility: Weave Grid, Inc. was awarded nearly $1 million to control when EV managed charging will occur in the Orange and Rockland Utilities service area by using software and topology data to coordinate schedules and balance the energy load.

    Managed EV Funding
    Also announced today is $4 million in new funding for a competitive solicitation offered through NYSERDA’s Electric Vehicle Managed Charging program. Proposals are sought from researchers, developers and consultants, who individually or as a team, will develop or demonstrate technologies that can solve the data collection, data transmission and operational challenges faced by utilities when integrating electric vehicles, regardless of supplier, with the electric grid. Proposals must include behind-the-meter EV integrated solutions including the transfer of bi-directional data and utility control over charging, or both to study how these solutions can alleviate demand on the electric grid.

    The focus of this solicitation was identified by NYSERDA working with Avangrid, parent company of Rochester Gas & Electric (RG&E) and New York State Electric & Gas (NYSEG), to provide data that will help inform future utility rate and program planning for EV managed charging.

    Proposals are due on September 16, 2025, by 3:00 p.m. ET. For more information on this funding opportunity please visit NYSERDA’s website.

    For more than fifty years, NYSERDA has been a trusted and objective resource for New Yorkers, taking on the critical role of energy planning and policy analysis, along with making investments that drive New York toward a more sustainable future. Today’s announcement builds on the success of NYSERDA’s Grid Modernization program, which since 2016 has awarded approximately $65 million to over 110 grid technology companies and research organizations for projects that improve low-cost high-accuracy grid sensors, modeling and simulation tools, and advanced engineering solutions. New York State’s investments in research, development, and commercialization support innovators accelerating the clean energy transition. NYSERDA’s Innovation and Research program is deploying approximately $1.2 billion over 15 years as direct research investments and commercialization support. To date, more than $800 million in investments have supported more than 700 companies and made nearly 300 products commercially available to individuals, businesses, and utilities.

    In addition, New York State is investing nearly $3 billion in electrifying its transportation sector and rapidly advancing measures that all new passenger cars and trucks sold, are zero emissions, along with all school buses being zero emissions the same year. There are a range of initiatives to grow access to EVs and improve clean transit for all New Yorkers including the Drive Clean Rebate, EV Make Ready, EVolve NY, the New York Truck Voucher Incentive Program (NYTVIP), the New York School Bus Incentive Program, and the Direct Current Fast Charger Program.

    Funding for this initiative is through the Clean Energy Fund (CEF).

    New York State’s Climate Agenda
    New York State’s climate agenda calls for an affordable and just transition to a clean energy economy that creates family-sustaining jobs, promotes economic growth through green investments, and directs a minimum of 35 percent of the benefits to disadvantaged communities. New York is advancing a suite of efforts to achieve an emissions-free economy by 2050, including in the energy, buildings, transportation, and waste sectors.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General James Takes Action to Block Unlawful Termination of Environmental Justice Grant Program

    Source: US State of New York

    EW YORK – New York Attorney General Letitia James co-led a coalition of 19 other attorneys general in filing an amicus brief supporting a lawsuit against the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for unlawfully terminating the Environmental and Climate Justice Block Grant Program. The grant program, created and funded by Congress through the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act, is designed to provide critical support to communities disproportionately impacted by pollution and climate change. Attorney General James and the coalition argue EPA’s abrupt and unlawful termination of the program and cancellation of grants has already caused widespread harm across their states, particularly in low-income communities and communities of color, and are urging the court to block the program termination while the lawsuit continues.

    “These climate and environmental justice grants are a lifeline for communities that have been historically left behind,” said Attorney General James. “From Buffalo to Far Rockaway, New Yorkers were counting on these funds to access clean energy, clean up air pollution, and prepare for climate disasters. When the federal government breaks its promises to our most vulnerable communities, the consequences can be devastating, even deadly. My office is fighting to ensure this grant program is restored so that New Yorkers are protected as we combat the climate crisis.”

    In the brief filed today in Appalachian Voices v. EPA, Attorney General James and the coalition emphasize that by terminating this grant program, the federal government is inflicting serious, lasting harm on vulnerable communities already grappling with disproportionate pollution burdens and the escalating effects of climate change. These communities, which are often low-income, communities of color, indigenous, or in rural areas, face overlapping environmental and public health crises. The attorneys general explain that these challenges have only been made worse by historical discriminatory policies, including racial segregation, redlining, and a systemic lack of investment in disadvantaged neighborhoods. These communities are under-resourced, have less access to infrastructure like clean drinking water and sanitation, and end up bearing the brunt of the burden from extreme weather disasters, since they are less equipped to recover from devastating events or easily adapt to a changing climate.

    In 2022, Congress created the grant program under the Inflation Reduction Act, mandating that EPA distribute $3 billion in funding specifically to help address these disparities. In New York alone, 22 grantees were awarded more than $70 million in funding to carry out projects to protect vulnerable residents from extreme heat, flooding, air pollution, and other environmental hazards. Another grantee, Fordham University in the Bronx, was awarded $50 million to provide as grants to community-based organizations in New York, as well as New Jersey, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and eight Indigenous Nations, for environmental justice projects. Grantees, often in partnership with non-profit organizations, academic institutions, and city agencies, would use the funds to protect residents from extreme weather events in Albany, Rochester, and Buffalo; combat flooding and excess heat in the Bronx and Yonkers; protect the Rockaways from storm surges; and more.

    Now, the sudden termination of these grants has forced grantees to lay off staff, halt programming, and freeze hiring. Attorney General James and the coalition argue that EPA’s mass cancellation of the environmental and climate justice grant program violates clear congressional mandates and fundamental constitutional principles. Congress directed the EPA to distribute these funds using mandatory language in the Inflation Reduction Act, leaving the agency no discretion to unilaterally withdraw support. The attorneys general emphasize that the executive branch cannot override Congress’s appropriations decisions based on its own policy preferences, and that in doing so, the administration violated the U.S. Constitution.

    Attorney General James and the coalition are urging the court to grant the plaintiffs’ motion for a preliminary injunction and ensure that the environmental justice grants will remain available for the communities that so desperately need them.

    Joining Attorney General James in filing this brief, which was co-led with Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell and California Attorney General Rob Bonta, are the attorneys general of Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Hawai’i, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Washington, and the District of Columbia.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Minister Peacock speech at the Giving and Impact Summit

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Speech

    Minister Peacock speech at the Giving and Impact Summit

    Minister Peacock delivered a speech at the Giving and Impact Summit held at the London Stock Exchange.

    Good morning everyone. Thank you for that kind introduction.  It is great to be here with you this morning at the Giving and Impact summit. Thank you to Integra for organising this forum, to the London Stock Exchange for hosting us, and to everyone here today. Your presence here demonstrates your shared interest and belief in the power of philanthropy and impact investment to achieve social good. This Government shares this passion and recognises the vital role the Impact Economy can play in helping to drive stronger economic growth across the country, alongside our ambitious Plan for Change.  I intend to set out briefly today how we can work in partnership to achieve this. 

    A remarkable 15 billion pounds was donated to charities last year; of course we can go further.  I have seen this first hand in my own constituency of Barnsley South, quite a deprived area. Whether that be Barnsley Hospice that raises £3.6 million per year and relies on donations to care for people and their families at the most difficult time of their lives or Barnsley Youth Choir which receives donations of over £300,000 annually, they focus on advancing musical education for young people in Barnsley and surrounding areas, and in their short existence have become one of the world’s leading youth choirs.

    Charitable giving and philanthropic investment builds on the British spirit of generosity that was outlined in the intro. Extending to our impact investment market, which has grown significantly over the past decade and leads the way in Europe. This growing market is worth over 76 billion pounds, demonstrates people’s strong desire for a connection between their investments and tangible social impact.  Now as the Minister responsible for philanthropy and the Impact Economy, I have seen first-hand the remarkable work being done in this area and the vast potential for increasing funds invested in public good. It was a real pleasure and a real eye opener to visit Made-in-Stoke last year for Giving Tuesday, an initiative focused on building a community of individuals eager to give back to Stoke. 

    That brings me onto government, and the important role we play in creating an ecosystem that stimulates increased investment and delivers for communities up and down the country. The most pressing social and environmental challenges facing the nation require us to work together, with different forms of capital, to achieve lasting change. We want to work more closely with all of you here today, to tackle these challenges and boost inclusive  growth. That is why we established the Social Impact Investment Advisory Group earlier this year. Both myself and the Chief Secretary to the Treasury were really pleased to attend its first meeting. This group of experts brings together individuals from across the impact investment, philanthropy and civil society sectors, and will provide recommendations later this year on how the government can effectively mobilise more social impact capital. The group has also been advising on the Social Impact Investment Vehicle announced at the Autumn Budget, to support delivery of the Government’s top priorities and to tackle those complex social problems. The advisory group is the first step in our commitment to establishing a stronger, and more ambitious, partnership with Impact Economy. We will continue to build on this, as our recently published Industrial Strategy demonstrates. This sets out our clear intention to deepen collaboration with the Impact Economy to deliver inclusive and sustainable growth, and in particular partner with the philanthropy sector. 

    I have heard from many of you that more can be done to grow philanthropic investment in this country. That is why, earlier this year, I outlined my three priorities to support this: 

    Firstly, the Government wants to connect philanthropic investment with the places that need it most – through place-based philanthropy. The Secretary of State has committed to the development of a place-based philanthropy strategy. This will set out a vision for how we can harness philanthropy to drive economic growth and regenerate  our communities. 

    Second,  we want to unlock extra philanthropic investment by making it as easy as possible for philanthropists to give more, and for would-be philanthropists to give for the first time.

    And finally, we want to partner with civil society, communities, donors and businesses to celebrate a culture of giving. 

    Let me end today by saying that this Government acknowledges the immense contribution social investors, philanthropists, and businesses make, and we want to see this go further.  Thank you all once again for inviting me to join you today, and I hope the rest of the summit is a success.

    Updates to this page

    Published 8 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Exclusive: Moscow pays special attention to cooperation with China – Deputy Mayor of Moscow M. Liksutov

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    Moscow, July 8 /Xinhua/ — Moscow pays special attention to cooperation with China in all areas, Deputy Mayor of Moscow, head of the Moscow Department of Transport and Development of Road Transport Infrastructure Maxim Liksutov said in an interview with Xinhua the other day.

    “China is one of Russia’s key strategic partners, so Moscow pays special attention to cooperation with China in all areas,” he emphasized.

    As M. Liksutov noted, the Russian capital and China are cooperating in the development of transport. Moscow authorities are closely studying the Chinese experience in creating high-speed highways within the country. The experience of developing subways in Chinese cities is also important for Moscow. “In addition, we are inspired by the incredible scale of development of ground-based urban electric transport in the PRC,” the capital official said, adding that the city of Shenzhen (Guangdong Province, South China) serves as an example for Moscow, where since 2017 only electric buses have been used in urban transport.

    According to the Deputy Mayor of Moscow, an important area of cooperation with China is the development of intelligent transport systems, including unmanned technologies. Thus, in 2023, Beijing became one of Moscow’s first international partners within the framework of the UrbanTransportData analytical platform, designed to collect, analyze, visualize and publish transport indicators.

    M. Liksutov reported on regular contacts between representatives of the Moscow transport complex and colleagues from the largest cities of China. In June last year, during the visit of Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin to Beijing, an agreement was reached to create a joint working group on transport, which has already held two meetings.

    In addition to transport, as the Xinhua source noted, Moscow actively cooperates with China in the sphere of trade. M. Liksutov cited data according to which the Russian capital accounts for more than 42 percent of the structure of the all-Russian trade turnover with China. The greatest demand is for industrial goods: radio navigation equipment, pumping equipment, electric motors and generators, carbon fibers and much more. “In addition, the residents of China highly value food products produced in Moscow. For example, bread, confectionery, cookies, ice cream, carbonated drinks and wheat flour,” the vice-mayor added.

    He said that the Mosprom center has been operating to support export-oriented capital companies since 2019. The center’s specialists analyze target markets for manufacturers to determine the most effective strategy for entering them, help with finding foreign counterparties, conducting negotiations with potential buyers abroad, and also organize the participation of Moscow companies in international exhibitions and business missions.

    M. Liksutov invited Chinese companies to the Russian capital. “We are interested in the work of Chinese companies in Moscow, especially in the areas of microelectronics, electric transport, robotics, pharmaceuticals, space research, unmanned transport and telecommunications. The partnership may concern both the establishment of trade and economic cooperation, and the localization of production or the development of investment projects,” he explained, assuring that the Moscow authorities will provide the necessary support measures to Chinese partners. –0–

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • At least eight killed and dozens missing after floods on Nepal-China border

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    At least eight people were killed and over two dozen were missing after the Bhote Koshi River flooded, washing away the “Friendship Bridge” that links China and Nepal, officials said on Tuesday.

    There had been no heavy rainfall in the immediate area of the river in the preceding 24 hours, but weather forecasting experts said the flood might have been the result of an overflowing glacial lake in Tibet, where torrential rain had fallen.

    Police had recovered eight bodies, none of whom had been identified so far, Nepal Police spokesperson Binod Ghimire told Reuters.

    He said 57 people were rescued. Search and rescue operations were continuing, Nepali Army spokesperson Raja Ram Basnet said.

    At least 20 people were missing in Nepal, while China’s official Xinhua news agency said 11 people were unaccounted for on the Chinese side of the mountainous border region.

    Trade between Nepal and China was disrupted because of the bridge’s destruction, officials said.

    In Nepal, the missing included six Chinese workers and three police personnel, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA) said on X.

    The missing Chinese nationals were working at the Inland Container Depot being constructed with Chinese assistance about 80 km (50 miles) north of capital Kathmandu, said Arjun Paudel, a senior administrative official of Rasuwa district.

    “The river also swept away some containers with goods imported from China… There is a big loss (of property) and we are collecting details,” he told Reuters.

    China has been increasing its investment in Nepal in recent years in domains including roads, power plants, and hospitals.

    The Asian giant has been battered by heavy rain and flash floods over the last few days that have left a trail of destruction, and is bracing for a tropical storm this week.

    Nepal’s weather forecasting department said it was working with Sentinel Asia – an international initiative that uses space-based technology to support disaster management in the Asia-Pacific region – to determine the cause of the flooding.

    In Pakistan, at least 79 people, including 38 children, have died in floods and rain-related incidents, including landslides and house collapses, since June 26, its National Disaster Management Authority said on Tuesday.

    The authority issued fresh alerts for flash flooding and glacial lake outbursts in the northern and northwestern provinces of Gilgit-Baltistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, citing “a significant rise in temperatures and… an upcoming weather system.”

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former Prison Guard Sentenced to Eight Years in Federal Prison for Sexually Abusing Inmates

    Source: US FBI

    HONOLULU – Acting United States Attorney Ken Sorenson announced that Mikael Salvador Rivera, 48, of Kapolei, Hawaii, was sentenced today in federal court by Senior U.S. District Judge J. Michael Seabright to 96 months’ imprisonment followed by 3 years of supervised release for sexual abuse of wards.

    Rivera was a correctional officer at the Federal Detention Center in Honolulu from approximately 2014 to 2018. As part of his prior guilty plea in March 2025, Rivera admitted that while on duty as a correctional officer, he ordered an inmate to participate in multiple sexual acts to which she did not consent and engaged in sexually abusive conduct with two additional inmates under his supervision. According to information provided to the Court, Rivera would leave cell doors unlocked so that he could enter or escort his victims out undetected. Rivera’s guilty plea came after he initially fled on the eve of trial, leading law enforcement on a days-long manhunt across Oahu.

    At sentencing, Judge Seabright imposed an upward variance from the advisory Sentencing Guidelines range, stating that with respect to the offense conduct, “there is nothing in mitigation, nothing I see but a gross abuse of Mr. Rivera’s position of authority within FDC, and a gross abuse of that power in sexually abusing these three inmates over one calendar year.” Judge Seabright went on to state, “His conduct was the exact opposite of what was intended. You were supposed to help, to rehabilitate those in your care. Instead, you preyed on them. You became a predator to them.” 

    “Correctional officers serve an invaluable role in our justice system, working in dangerous environments where they are entrusted to ensure order in our detention facilities and the safety of our inmates. While nearly all federal correctional officers are hardworking, ethical, and honest, there are those very few who abuse their power over inmates. Their conduct erodes public faith in our institutions and justice system, and we must accordingly seek to investigate, prosecute, and punish those who abuse vulnerable inmates in federal custody. Those who violate the public trust will experience the full force of law and justice in the District of Hawaii,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Ken Sorenson. “Today’s lengthy sentence serves as a warning that sexual misconduct by federal correctional officers will be investigated, prosecuted, and severely punished.”

    “Sexual abuse of individuals in custody by federal correctional officers is a profound breach of public trust. The Office of the Inspector General is committed to ensuring that those who violate that trust are held accountable for abusing their authority,” said Anne Walsh, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Department of Justice Office of the Inspector General (DOJ OIG) Western Region.

    “Not only did Mikael Rivera abuse the power of his position to commit horrific acts of sexual violence and silence his victims, but his actions undermined the efforts of all correctional officers,” said FBI Honolulu Special Agent in Charge David Porter. “Today’s sentence sends the clear message that the FBI will investigate and hold accountable anyone who violates federal law, regardless of their position.”

    The investigation was conducted by the United States Department of Justice Office of the Inspector General (DOJ-OIG), with assistance from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Sara Ayabe for the District of Hawaii and Trial Attorney Nicole Lockhart of the Criminal Division’s Public Integrity Section (PIN) prosecuted the case, with substantial assistance from former PIN Deputy Chiefs Jennifer Clarke and Marco Palmieri.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: St. Louis County Man Sentenced to 34 Years for Five Armed Robberies

    Source: US FBI

    ST. LOUIS – U.S. District Judge Sarah. E. Pitlyk on Thursday sentenced a man who committed five armed robberies in Missouri and Illinois in 2023 to 34 years in prison.

    Ronald O. Perkins, 30, of Black Jack, Missouri, was armed with a handgun, fired multiple shots during one of the robberies and often banged the gun on the counter while demanding money or pointed it at employees, according to evidence and testimony at Perkins’ trial in April.

    Perkins first robbed a gas station and convenience store on Riverview Drive in St. Louis on Sept. 8, 2023. He demanded money and then grabbed cash out of the register. He fired several shots when an employee tried to intervene.

    On Nov. 8, 2023, Perkins robbed a gas station on Clayton Road in Richmond Heights, stealing cash and a pack of cigarettes.

    Less than two hours later, he robbed a 7-Eleven on Hoffmeister Avenue in St. Louis County, stealing cash.

    Four days later, he robbed a gas station on Fee Fee Road in St. Louis County.

    Five days after that, on Nov. 17, 2023, he robbed a liquor store on St. Louis Road in Collinsville, Illinois, again stealing money from the register.

    At trial, jurors saw physical and electronic evidence and surveillance video that showed Perkins was responsible for all five robberies. Officers also recovered the gun that was a ballistic match to the firearm used in the first robbery from Perkins’ pants.

    In court Thursday, Judge Pitlyk called the evidence “overwhelming.”

    “Use of a firearm during a crime of violence can subject you to a sentence of seven years in prison consecutive to any other charge. In Ronald Perkins’ case, that meant he faced at least 31 years in prison,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Matthew T. Drake. “It’s a very old cliché, but violent crime really does not pay. Perkins fired multiple shots during one of the robberies and held employees at gunpoint. He netted a total of $1,650 from five robberies that left nine innocent employees and two customers terrified and mentally scarred. All of that for what works out to be just pennies for each day that he will spend in prison.”

    Jurors in U.S. District Court in St. Louis found Perkins guilty of four counts of robbery, one count of discharging a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence, three counts of brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence and one count of transporting a firearm in interstate commerce with intent to commit a felony.

    The St. Louis County Police Department, the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department, the Collinsville Police Department, the Richmond Heights Police Department, the Columbia (Illinois) Police Department and the FBI investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Zachary Bluestone and Tiffany Becker prosecuted the case.

    This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Most US employers not budging on budgets, salary increases remain flat

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, July 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Average salary increase budgets for US companies in 2026 are expected to remain stable at 3.5%, matching 2025’s actual increases. This is according to the latest Salary Budget Planning Report by WTW (NASDAQ: WTW), a leading global advisory, broking and solutions company.

    Three out of five organizations saw their salary budgets change in the last pay cycle. More than half (53%) of these organizations reported no change between their anticipated and actual pay budgets in 2025. For the nearly one-third (31%) of these organizations that are projecting lower salary increase budgets than last year, the most common reasons cited are an anticipated recession or weaker financial results (51%) and concerns related to cost management (45%). Tight labor markets (59%) and inflationary pressures (30%) are the most commonly cited reasons for change among the relatively few organizations that are projecting higher salary increase budgets.

    “While top-line budgets are generally holding steady, the real shift is happening beneath the surface. Organizations are being more deliberate about how they allocate pay, where they focus investment and what outcomes they expect to drive. Employers are no longer simply reacting to economic signals; they’re reimagining how to best support broader business goals despite uncertainty,” said Brittany Innes, director, Rewards Data Intelligence.

    Despite stable pay increases, employees are staying put. Fewer organizations this year have found employee stability challenging compared to the past two years. Less than one-third of organizations (30%) report difficulty attracting or retaining employees, representing a decrease of 11 percentage points since 2023.

    In response to market conditions in which turnover is relatively low and burnout and disengagement remains a concern, organizations have taken a number of actions to support their workforce, including improving the employee experience (47%), enhancing health and wellness benefits (43%) and increasing training opportunities (40%).

    Additionally, employers are adjusting compensation programs to address the competitive labor market and inflationary pressures. These actions have included conducting a compensation review of all employees (50%), performing a compensation review of specific employee groups (48%), hiring people higher in relevant salary ranges (45%) and raising starting salary ranges (40%). Over two-fifths of organizations (43%) have enhanced their use of retention bonuses or spot awards and 37% have targeted base salary increases for specific employee groups.

    As organizations focus on these efforts, they continue to wrestle with higher annual payroll expenses. The average annual payroll expense increased by nearly 4% (3.6%), and 7 in 10 organizations report total annual payroll expenses higher than last year.

    “As employers navigate continued economic uncertainty, ongoing increases in labor costs and the changing needs and expectations of employees, they are positioning themselves for what is to come and making investments in their workforces that go beyond pay raises. These include career development, wellbeing, flexibility and equity—because these are critical for performance, retention and resilience in a shifting market,” said Lori Wisper, managing director, Work & Rewards.

    About the survey

    The Salary Budget Planning Report is compiled by WTW’s Rewards Data Intelligence practice. The survey was conducted from April to June of 2025. Approximately 29,128 responses were received from companies across 157 countries worldwide. In the U.S., 1,569 organizations responded.

    About WTW

    At WTW (NASDAQ: WTW), we provide data-driven, insight-led solutions in the areas of people, risk and capital. Leveraging the global view and local expertise of our colleagues serving 140 countries and markets, we help organizations sharpen their strategy, enhance organizational resilience, motivate their workforce and maximize performance.

    Working shoulder to shoulder with our clients, we uncover opportunities for sustainable success—and provide perspective that moves you. Learn more at wtwco.com.

    Media contacts:

    Ileana Feoli
    ileana.feoli@wtwco.com

    Stacy Bronstein
    sbronstein@meritcomms.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Northfield Capital Completes Strategic Aviation Expansion With Acquisition of Second Pilatus PC-12; Updates Aircraft Loan Agreement

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, July 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Northfield Capital Corporation (TSX-V: NFD.A) (“Northfield” or the “Corporation”), a proudly Canadian-owned investment company, is pleased to announce the completion of its aviation fleet expansion strategy through the acquisition of a second Pilatus PC-12 NG aircraft. The transaction was completed through Northfield’s wholly-owned subsidiary, Spruce Goose Aviation Inc. (“Spruce Goose”) and complements earlier purchases of two high-performance helicopters. The transaction finalizes the Corporation’s multi-aircraft buildout designed to support growth at its commercial operating subsidiary, True North Airways Inc. (“True North” or “TNA”). The purchase was funded through an amendment to the Aircraft Loan Agreement (as defined below), increasing total available proceeds to US$5.795 million.

    This aircraft marks True North’s second PC-12 in its active fleet following the addition of two helicopters earlier this year, acquired to address rising demand for charter flight hours and mission-specific services throughout Canada, the U.S., and Central America. The aircraft is a modern, low-time, high-utility platform that enhances TNA’s operational scale and geographic reach.

    “This completes the staged rollout of our aviation growth strategy, said Robert D. Cudney, Chief Executive Officer of Northfield. “With three helicopters, two Pilatus PC-12s, a light jet (Cessna Citation) and mid-size jet (Gulfstream G100) now under management, we have assembled a fleet that is optimized for charter demand, infrastructure logistics, government contracts, and exploration support across North and Central America. We now move from capital deployment to cash flow generation.”

    Iain Hayden, CEO of True North Airways, added: “Adding a second PC-12 gives us meaningful lift to meet charter demand, with operational flexibility and reliability. This second PC-12 brings our fixed-wing charter capabilities to another level. Its short-field performance, payload capacity, and operating economics make it the perfect aircraft to serve our growing client base across remote and urban markets. As demand continues to rise, we’re proud to offer our clients the versatility and reliability they’ve come to expect from TNA. Combined with our helicopter assets, we can now offer a fully integrated aviation solution to our clients — whether they’re in executive travel, energy, remote logistics, or public service. The strategy is complete, and we’re excited to fly.”

    Strategic Fleet Expansion Completed

    Northfield’s aviation initiative was designed to scale True North Airways’ commercial capacity in response to growing demand for:

    • Executive and private charters
    • Aerial firefighting and medical support
    • Resource exploration and infrastructure logistics
    • Government and community contracts

    In March 2025, Spruce Goose acquired two helicopters — a 1999 Eurocopter AS350-B3 and a 1980 Bell 206B3 Jet Ranger — to anchor rotary-wing operations in Ontario and El Salvador. The July 2025 purchase of a 2014 Pilatus PC-12 NG adds long-range, fixed-wing capability and completes the planned fleet expansion.

    The Eurocopter AS350-B3 Helicopter and the Pilatus PC-12 were financed under a single amended aviation loan facility totaling US$5.795 million (see below), with assets fully secured and revenue-generating, and the Jet Ranger was financed with cash on hand.

    New: 2014 Pilatus PC-12 NG Acquisition

    The most recent acquisition — a 2014 Pilatus PC-12 NG — is a low-hour, executive-class turboprop offering exceptional range, payload, and short-field performance. This is True North’s second PC-12, providing scale and scheduling flexibility to meet increasing charter demand in Canada, the U.S., and the Caribbean. The aircraft supports executive charter, air ambulance, infrastructure access, and remote cargo needs — all with exceptionally low operating costs and high dispatch reliability.

    Figure 1: 2014 Pilatus PC-12 NG

    Key specifications of the Pilatus PC-12 NG:

    • Engine: Pratt & Whitney PT6A-67P
    • Cruise Speed: 260 knots (481 km/h)
    • Range: 1,803 NM (3,340 km)
    • Service Ceiling: 30,000 ft
    • Payload: ~2,236 lbs
    • Cabin: Executive 6-seat layout
    • Features: 5-blade MT propeller, TAWS-A, Honeywell Primus Apex avionics, weather radar, large cargo door, upgraded NiCad batteries
     

    Helicopter Fleet Acquired March 2025

    As part of the broader strategy, Northfield previously acquired the following helicopters through Spruce Goose: a 1999 Eurocopter AS350-B3 (or “AS350-B3”) and 1980 Bell 206B-3 Jet Ranger (or “Jet Ranger”), which will expand TNA’s capabilities in firefighting, resource exploration, executive and cargo charters, and government contract services across Canada and El Salvador.

    Enhancing Aerial Capabilities with the AS350-B3

    In March 2025, an AS350-B3 helicopter—renowned for its high-altitude performance, robust single-engine power, and exceptional lifting capability—was acquired to enhance aerial operations. This versatile aircraft has since become an integral asset for demanding missions such as firefighting, air ambulance support, resource sector logistics, infrastructure and government services, as well as private and corporate charters. With its addition earlier this year, the range and effectiveness of aerial operations have notably expanded, supporting an even broader array of government and commercial contracts in Canada.

    Figure 2: 1999 Eurocopter AS350-B3

    Key specifications of the AS350-B3:

    • Engine: Turbomeca Arriel 2B1
    • Cruise Speed: 122 knots (226 km/h)
    • Range: 340 nautical miles (630 km)
    • Useful Load: 2,557 lbs (1,160 kg)
    • External Load Capacity: 3,500 lbs (1,587 kg)
    • Seating Capacity: Pilot + 5 passengers

    Jet Ranger: Supporting Expansion in El Salvador

    In addition to the AS350-B3, a Jet Ranger was also acquired, a proven workhorse in the aviation industry. This helicopter will be deployed in El Salvador under TNA South S.A. de C.V. (a wholly-owned subsidiary of TNA), where it will service resource development, cargo and logistics transportation, infrastructure projects, executive-tourism charters and high-end travel, all which aligns with the country’s current pro-business stance. Its lightweight design and fuel efficiency make it ideal for cost-effective aerial operations, which we forecast will assist with long-term profitability for True North Airways.

    Figure 3: 1980 Bell 206B-3 Jet Ranger

    Key specifications of the Jet Ranger:

    • Engine: Rolls-Royce 250-C20B
    • Cruise Speed: 115 knots (213 km/h)
    • Range: 374 nautical miles (693 km)
    • Useful Load: 1,400 lbs (635 kg)
    • Seating Capacity: Pilot + 4 passengers

    Aircraft Loan Agreement

    The Corporation and certain of its subsidiaries have entered into an amending agreement dated July 7, 2025 (the “Amending Agreement”), to increase the principal amount of the previously obtained Aircraft Loan (as defined below), from US$5.195 million to US$5.795 million, in order to finance the purchase of a PC-12 NG Aircraft. Northfield and certain of its subsidiaries will continue to guarantee the obligations under the Aircraft Loan Agreement, as amended by the Amending Agreement, and Echo Capital Fund I Inc. (the “Lender”), an arm’s length private lender in the aviation space, will also take security against the new aircraft being purchased with the remaining proceeds from the loan.

    On March 14, 2025, Northfield along with certain of its subsidiaries entered into an aircraft loan agreement (the “Aircraft Loan Agreement”) with the Lender to finance the purchase of certain aircraft by Spruce Goose. The original Aircraft Loan Agreement provided for a loan (the “Aircraft Loan”) to Spruce Goose of up to US$5.195 million with a term of five years, with interest thereon based on a variable floating rate equal to the annual interest rate posted and announced by Laurentian Bank of Canada plus 300 basis points calculated and compounded monthly in arrears for the relevant period of the Aircraft Loan. The Aircraft Loan Agreement requires interest and principal to be paid monthly based on a ten-year amortization period, with any remaining balance due at the end of the five-year term of the Aircraft Loan. The Aircraft Loan can be repaid at the election of Spruce Goose following the first year of the term of the Aircraft Loan Agreement.

    At the time of the Aircraft Loan, the proceeds were used by the Corporation to purchase the AS350-B3.

    The Corporation and certain of its subsidiaries provided a guarantee in connection with the Aircraft Loan and the Lender also took security against certain aircrafts of Spruce Goose, including the AS350-B3 helicopter purchased with a portion of the proceeds from the Aircraft Loan. The Aircraft Loan Agreement contains other customary terms, covenants and representations and warranties for a transaction of such nature.

    About Northfield Capital Corporation

    Northfield Capital Corporation is a publicly traded, leading Canadian investment firm with deep roots in resources, mining, aviation, and premium alcoholic beverages. Founded in 1981 by Robert D. Cudney, Northfield combines decades of experience with forward-thinking strategies to unlock opportunities across its diverse portfolio. Northfield is dedicated to fostering growth and innovation in businesses that drive economic prosperity in Canada. For more information, visit www.northfieldcapital.com.

    About True North Airways Inc.

    True North Airways Inc. is a leading Canadian aviation services provider specializing in executive charter services, resource and infrastructure support, emergency response, and tourism aviation solutions. With a growing fleet and operational bases in Ontario, Canada and El Salvador, TNA serves corporate executives, government contracts, resource exploration firms, and high-net-worth travelers and is committed to providing safe, efficient, and tailored aviation solutions across North and South America. Learn more at www.truenorthairways.ca.

    For further information, please contact:

    Michael G. Leskovec, CPA, CA
    Chief Financial Officer
    Telephone: (416) 628-5940

    Forward-Looking Information

    This news release contains forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking information is identified by terms such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “may,” “plan,” “predict,” “project,” “will,” “would,” and similar expressions, including references to assumptions. Such information may relate to, but is not limited to, aircraft deployment strategies, the demand for aircraft services, the repayment terms of the Aircraft Loan and future use of proceeds. Forward-looking information is based on current expectations, estimates, projections, and assumptions that involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, changes in consumer preferences, regulatory developments, economic conditions, including as a result of tariffs and other economic penalties, supply chain disruptions, competitive dynamics in the aviation industry, and external market factors impacting Northfield’s and its aviation business operations. There can be no assurance that forward-looking information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially due to a variety of risks and uncertainties. Readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. Northfield Capital Corporation disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, except as required under applicable securities laws.

    Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release.

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/10cbaedd-8fd6-4821-b4dc-b8666300c576

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/d25bea8a-9251-4d44-8bf2-648f0c689822

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/e3cae6ef-3889-427a-bcab-b564ecb31105

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: Cancellations at Canadian film festivals raise questions about accountability

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Dorit Naaman, Alliance Atlantis Professor of Film and Media, Queen’s University, Ontario

    Film festivals are unique cultural institutions, spaces to see diverse films by local and global filmmakers and an important market for distributors. These films are often difficult to see, or even know about, outside of festival circuits.

    Festivals are also answerable to funders and to different stakeholders’ interests. Cancellations of planned films raise questions about festivals’ roles and accountability to community groups who find certain films objectionable, the wider public, politicians, festival sponsors, audiences, filmmakers and the films themselves.

    In September 2024, The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) faced a backlash from pro-Ukrainian groups — and former deputy prime minister Chrystia Freeland, who is of Ukrainian descent — when the documentary Russians at War was included in the program.



    Read more:
    ‘Russians at War’ documentary: From the Crimean to the Iraq War, soldier images pose questions about propaganda

    The Ukrainian Canadian Congress and other advocates called on TIFF to cancel the film, directed by Russian Canadian Anastasia Trofimova, which they accused of being Russian propaganda.

    TIFF did cancel festival screenings after it was “made aware of significant threats to festival operations and public safety,” but once the festival was over, showed Russians at the TIFF Lightbox Theatre.

    In November, the Montréal International Documentary Festival (RIDM) cancelled the Canadian premiere of Rule of Stone, directed by Israeli Canadian director Danae Elon. As a film and media professor, I supervised Elon’s research for the film while she pursued a master’s degree at Queen’s University.

    RIDM acknowledged Elon’s “personal commitment to criticizing and questioning the state of Israel” through her story about the stone that, by Israeli law, has to be used on the exterior of every new building in Jerusalem.

    In the film, Elon examines how, in post-1967 Jerusalem, “architecture and stone are the main weapons in a silent, but extraordinarily effective colonization and dispossession process” of Palestinians.

    As a documentarist and a researcher in Israeli and Palestinian media representations of fighters, I have analyzed both films and followed the controversies. Each focuses on contemporary political issues relevant to our understanding of current affairs.

    While the reasons for the cancellations are different, in both cases the festivals responded to pressures from community groups, placing the public right to a robust debate at the festival and beyond as secondary.

    ‘Russians at War’

    Director Anastasia Trifamova embedded herself in a Russian supply unit, and later a medical team, eventually making her way to the front lines in occupied Ukraine.

    Trifamova comes across as a naive filmmaker, using an observational, non-judgmental form of filmmaking common in 21st-century war documentaries, as seen in films like Armadillo and Restrepo (respectively following Danish and U.S. troops in Afghanistan).

    As noted by TIFF, Russians was “an official Canada-France co-production with funding from several Canadian agencies,” and Trifamova said she did not seek or receive official permission from the Russian army to film.

    The film documents the machination of war, where soldiers are both perpetrators of violence and its victims. It humanizes the soldiers, which understandably can be upsetting to Ukrainian and pro-Ukrainian publics. But should emotions of one group, outraged and incensed as they may be, prevent the public from having the difficult conversations promoted by the film?

    Early in the film, Trifamova confronts the soldiers about why they are fighting and they respond with Russian propaganda (fighting Nazism, defending the borders).

    Later, soldiers approach Trifamova — on camera — to express doubts about the justification of the war and their presence in Ukraine. The film provides an unflattering view of Russia’s attack on Ukraine, emphasizing the futility of the war and the incredible toll on soldiers and civilians (including some Ukrainian civilians). Russian troops appear untrained and poorly equipped to fight in chaotically managed battles.

    Like Armadillo and Restrepo, Russians at War represents the soldiers without judgment and contributes to necessary conversations about war. In my analysis, while Trifamova refrains — in her sporadic voice-over — from condemning the war outright, it is difficult to read the film as Russian propaganda.

    While TIFF cited security concerns as the reason for cancellation, security was in place for another film that attracted controversy, Bliss.

    A cancellation from such an established festival likely has an effect on how a film is able to circulate. For example, TVO, one of the funders of Russians at War, cancelled its scheduled broadcast days after the TIFF cancellation.

    ‘Rule of Stone’

    Rule of Stone, as noted by RDIM, “critically examines the colonialist project of East Jerusalem following its conquest by Israeli forces in 1967.”

    The title references a colonial bylaw to clad building with stone, first introduced by the British, which still exists today.

    The film, which examines architecture’s role in creating modern Jerusalem, is led by Elon’s voice-over. It mixes her memories of growing up in 1970s Jerusalem and her reckoning with the “frenzy of building,” which included projects by architect Moshe Safdie, a citizen of Israel, Canada and the United States. Elon recounts that her father, journalist and author Amos Elon, was a close friend of Safdie, as well as legendary Jerusalem mayor Teddy Kolek.

    Safdie is among the Israeli architects, architectural historians and planners who Elon interviews. The expansion of Jewish neighbourhoods is contrasted with the restrictions on and disposession of Palestinians in Jerusalem. Multiple scenes show the demolition of Palestinian homes or the aftermath. In intervwoven segments, Izzat Ziadah, a Palestinian stonemason who lives in a stone quarry, gives a tour of what is left of his destroyed home.

    Viewers hear how the planning, expansion and building of Jewish neighbourhoods, post-1967, were designed to evoke biblical times. As architectural historian Zvi Efrat notes, the new neighbourhoods look like, or attempt to look like, they were there forever.

    ‘Rule of Stone’ trailer.

    As reported by La Presse, the RIDM cancellation came after the festival received information about the documentary’s partial Israeli financing, something that “embarrassed” them with some of the festival’s partners. Funding for the development of the film came from the Makor Foundation for Israeli Films, which receives support from Israel’s Ministry of Culture and Sport.

    Two organizations, the Palestinian Film Institute and Regards Palestiniens, opposed the film’s showing on the basis of their commitment to the Palestinian Campaign for the Academic and Cultural Boycott of Israel (PACBI).

    In the organizations’ logic, Israel state funding means a film should be subject to boycott as “PACBI specifically targets Israeli institutional funding in the arts which serves to culturally whitewash and legitimize the Israeli state.”

    In my view, this position differs from the PACBI guidelines, which state:

    “As a general overriding rule, Israeli cultural institutions, unless proven otherwise, are complicit in maintaining the Israeli occupation and denial of basic Palestinian rights, whether through their silence or actual involvement in justifying, whitewashing or otherwise deliberately diverting attention from Israel’s violations of international law and human rights.”

    Makor should be exempted since it regularly funds films that draw attention to Israel’s violations of Palestinian human rights. In 2024 alone, the list includes The Governor, The Village League and Death in Um al hiran.

    RIDM’s website does not disclose support for a boycott. In the end, RIDM announced that Elon withdrew her film. She stated: “Screening my film at RIDM does not serve the long-term purpose of the festival, nor is it possible now to address the nuances in our common fight for justice for Palestine. I am deeply saddened and distressed by [what] has brought it to this point.”

    To date, the film has not found a cinema in Montréal willing to screen it.

    Provoking important conversations

    The two festivals’ mission statements promise high-quality films that transform or renew audiences’ relationships to the world.

    It is clear why programmers chose both films, since they’re cinematically innovative and provoke important conversations.

    However, both festivals silenced these films and signalled to other filmmakers that these festivals are not brave spaces to have difficult and necessary conversations.

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

    – ref. Cancellations at Canadian film festivals raise questions about accountability – https://theconversation.com/cancellations-at-canadian-film-festivals-raise-questions-about-accountability-250892

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: The Government of Canada is supporting 13 Indigenous-led clean energy projects through the Low Carbon Economy Fund’s Indigenous Leadership Fund

    Source: Government of Canada News

    July 8, 2025 – Gatineau, Quebec

    As protectors of the land and water, Indigenous peoples have long been leaders in climate action. In addition to advocating for the care of our planet, First Nations, Inuit, and Métis are making significant contributions to lowering greenhouse gas emissions as leaders or key partners in the development of almost 20% of Canada’s clean electricity infrastructure.

    To further support this leadership, today, the Honourable Julie Dabrusin, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, announced over $40 million in funding through the Low Carbon Economy Indigenous Leadership Fund to support 13 Indigenous-owned and -led clean energy projects across Canada.

    These projects include the installation of solar panels, wind turbines, and heat pumps, as well as building energy retrofits that will help Indigenous communities save on energy costs and increase renewable energy use. They also help create jobs and leverage economic opportunities to further benefit those communities.

    • The K’ómoks First Nation in British Columbia will receive nearly $690,000 for its community solar project to install residential solar panels.
    • The Kinistin Saulteaux Nation in Saskatchewan will receive over $845,000 for its Kizis–Pimibizaowgamik project to build a charging system to power community EVs for local work and medical transportation.
    • The Makivvik Corporation in Quebec will receive approximately $3.5 million to purchase and distribute solar kits throughout Nunavik.
    • The Thunder Bay Indigenous Friendship Centre in Ontario will receive up to $1 million to install a heat pump system in the Thunder Bay Indigenous Friendship Centre’s new building.
    • The Sheshatshiu Innu First Nation in Newfoundland and Labrador will receive over $1.6 million to install heat pumps in community-owned homes on Sheshatshiu Indian Reserve No. 3.
    • The Gitlaxt’aamiks Village Government in British Columbia will receive over $2.8 million to purchase and install electric heat pumps in community homes.
    • The Mushuau Innu First Nation in Newfoundland and Labrador will receive over $5.8 million to purchase and install heat pumps in community-owned homes in the remote community of Natuashish.
    • The Qalipu Mi’kmaq First Nation Band in Newfoundland and Labrador will receive nearly $4.3 million to purchase and install heat pumps in homes owned by community members.
    • The Hiawatha First Nation 162 in Ontario will receive nearly $3.4 million to make the newly built Rice Lake Elder’s complex and community building net zero.
    • The Métis Nation of Alberta will receive over $9.2 million to retrofit approximately 500 citizen-owned homes across Alberta.
    • The Seabird Island Band in British Columbia will receive over $5.6 million to improve the energy efficiency of two schools and an administration building.
    • The Métis National Council Secretariat Inc. in Ontario will receive up to $150,000 to conduct an audit of the Métis National Council’s operating carbon footprint.
    • The Indigenous Clean Energy Social Enterprise in Ontario will receive over $1.2 million for a collaborative impact project responding to federal best practices for Indigenous participation in program advisory and governance.

    These investments reaffirm the Government of Canada’s commitment to support reconciliation and integrate Indigenous Knowledge, voices, and perspectives in the work toward a sustainable future for all.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Thousands of PLA personnel deployed to flood-hit Rongjiang 2025-07-08 22:57:51 More than 9,200 military personnel and 14,000 militia members have been mobilized to help with flood rescue in Rongjiang county, Southwest China’s Guizhou province, a defense spokesman said on Tuesday.

    Source: People’s Republic of China – Ministry of National Defense

      By JIANG CHENGLONG

      More than 9,200 military personnel and 14,000 militia members have been mobilized to help with flood rescue in Rongjiang county, Southwest China’s Guizhou province, a defense spokesman said on Tuesday.

      Senior Colonel Jiang Bin, a spokesman for the Ministry of National Defense, announced the mobilization in an online news briefing to address the response to the major floods, which struck Rongjiang in late last month.

      “A natural disaster is an order for action, and the disaster-hit area is the battlefield for the troops,” Jiang said, noting that the forces of the People’s Liberation Army and People’s Armed Police rushed to the affected region to fight the floods and mitigate the losses.

      In addition to the personnel deployment, a total of 90 sets of large engineering equipment have been mobilized to participate in tasks including search and rescue, relocation of residents, road clearance, removal of mud and disinfection, he said.

      “People’s safety is the top priority,” said Jiang. “The people’s military will faithfully live up to its fundamental purpose of serving the people wholeheartedly, earnestly safeguard the lives and property of the people, and resolutely fulfill all tasks entrusted by the Party and the people.”

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    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Belmont County Man Sentenced to 60 Years in Prison for Sexually Exploiting Multiple Children

    Source: US FBI

    COLUMBUS, Ohio – Dennis Stopar, 65, of Flushing, Ohio, was sentenced in U.S. District Court today to 720 months in prison for sexually exploiting minors and possessing child pornography.

    According to court documents, between 2022 and 2023, Stopar sexually assaulted at least nine minor victims, both male and female, and created hundreds of videos and images of the horrific abuse. At the time of the sexual assaults, most of the minor victims were in foster care of a family member of Stopar.

    In December 2023, while investigating a CyberTip to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) regarding child pornography being uploaded to a Dropbox account at an address in Belmont County, law enforcement encountered Stopar. Further investigation revealed Stopar, a convicted sex offender, possessed child pornography he had created of one of the minor victims on his phone. Stopar was arrested and his electronic devices were subsequently processed via a federal search warrant, and he was charged federally in April 2024.

    Forensic examinations on his devices revealed Stopar had filmed the sexual assaults of at least seven of the minor victims he had access to.  Approximately 160 images and 12 videos of the identified victims being sexually assaulted by Stopar were recovered.

    Stopar’s prior sex offense is a rape conviction for sexually abusing a victim beginning when the victim was approximately 6 years old until the victim was 16 years old.

    The defendant pleaded guilty in this case in December 2024.

    Kelly A. Norris, Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio; Elena Iatarola, Special Agent in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Cincinnati Division; and Belmont County Sheriff James G. Zusack announced the sentence imposed today by U.S. District Judge Michael H. Watson. Assistant United States Attorneys Emily Czerniejewski and Jennifer M. Rausch are representing the United States in this case.

    # # #

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Belmont County Man Sentenced to 60 Years in Prison for Sexually Exploiting Multiple Children

    Source: US FBI

    COLUMBUS, Ohio – Dennis Stopar, 65, of Flushing, Ohio, was sentenced in U.S. District Court today to 720 months in prison for sexually exploiting minors and possessing child pornography.

    According to court documents, between 2022 and 2023, Stopar sexually assaulted at least nine minor victims, both male and female, and created hundreds of videos and images of the horrific abuse. At the time of the sexual assaults, most of the minor victims were in foster care of a family member of Stopar.

    In December 2023, while investigating a CyberTip to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) regarding child pornography being uploaded to a Dropbox account at an address in Belmont County, law enforcement encountered Stopar. Further investigation revealed Stopar, a convicted sex offender, possessed child pornography he had created of one of the minor victims on his phone. Stopar was arrested and his electronic devices were subsequently processed via a federal search warrant, and he was charged federally in April 2024.

    Forensic examinations on his devices revealed Stopar had filmed the sexual assaults of at least seven of the minor victims he had access to.  Approximately 160 images and 12 videos of the identified victims being sexually assaulted by Stopar were recovered.

    Stopar’s prior sex offense is a rape conviction for sexually abusing a victim beginning when the victim was approximately 6 years old until the victim was 16 years old.

    The defendant pleaded guilty in this case in December 2024.

    Kelly A. Norris, Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio; Elena Iatarola, Special Agent in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Cincinnati Division; and Belmont County Sheriff James G. Zusack announced the sentence imposed today by U.S. District Judge Michael H. Watson. Assistant United States Attorneys Emily Czerniejewski and Jennifer M. Rausch are representing the United States in this case.

    # # #

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: PaymentWorks and Nacha to Host Virtual Event on Upcoming ACH Credit Rule Changes and Fraud Prevention

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    WALTHAM, Mass. and RESTON, Va., July 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — PaymentWorks, the only digital supplier onboarding platform that indemnifies vendor payments and optimizes for preferred payment types, today announced it will co-present a live virtual event with Nacha, the governing body of the ACH Network, to guide organizations through upcoming ACH rule changes, which for most non-consumer originators, take effect in June 2026.

    Nacha created the new rules to combat the growing wave of ACH credit push fraud, such as business email compromise and vendor impersonation — schemes that exploit weak supplier onboarding and manual vendor management processes.

    During the event, Nacha will review the reasons behind the Rule changes, their impact on non-consumer ACH originators, and the timeline for establishing compliance. With unmatched experience securing vendor data and ACH credit push payments, PaymentWorks will share proven, practical insight into why these rules are needed and what actions organizations should take now.

    Attendees will learn:

    • Nacha’s role in governing the ACH network
    • Why Nacha amended the Rules to include Fraud monitoring for ACH Credit Push payments — and the timeline for compliance
    • How to adapt supplier onboarding, change management, and ACH payment workflows to stay compliant by June 2026

    WHAT: Nacha 2026 ACH Rule Changes — Are You Ready?
    WHEN: Wednesday, July 16, 2025, 2:00 – 3:00 PM EST
    CREDITS: 1 CPE Credit, 1 AAP & APRP Credit
    REGISTER: Here

    About PaymentWorks
    PaymentWorks is the only digital supplier onboarding platform with a $2 million indemnification for vendor payments against fraud and optimizes for preferred payment types. Trusted by universities, healthcare systems, governments, and large enterprises, PaymentWorks transforms vendor onboarding from a manual risk point into a secure, compliant, and revenue-generating advantage.

    About Nacha

    Nacha governs the thriving ACH Network, the payment system that drives safe, smart, and fast Direct Deposits and Direct Payments with the capability to reach all U.S. bank and credit union accounts. There were 33.6 billion ACH Network payments made in 2024, valued at $86.2 trillion. Through problem-solving and consensus-building among diverse payment industry stakeholders, Nacha advances innovation and interoperability in the payments system. Nacha develops rules and standards, provides industry solutions, and delivers education, accreditation, and advisory services.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: TrueCommerce Names Bill Glass as CEO, Marking New Phase of Growth and Innovation

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    PITTSBURGH, July 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — TrueCommerce, a global provider of supply chain and trading partner connectivity, integration and omnichannel solutions, today announced Bill Glass as Chief Executive Officer (CEO). This leadership transition signals a new chapter for the company, one focused on accelerating innovation and doubling down on its long-standing commitment to customer experience and operational excellence.

    Glass steps into the role with a proven track record of leading high-growth, private equity-backed SaaS companies such as Bazaarvoice and Accruent. He joined TrueCommerce in 2022 as Chief Sales Officer, where he played a key role in shaping the company’s go-to-market strategy and building momentum across global sales efforts. Prior to that, he served as SVP of Global Sales at insightsoftware, where he helped lead the growth of over 5X in revenue both organically and across 18 acquisitions in North America, EMEA and APAC, while also building a scalable, high-velocity global sales organization.

    “I’m honored to lead TrueCommerce into this next phase,” said Glass. “We have a tremendous foundation to build on, and now we’re sharpening our focus around three core pillars: innovation, customer experience, and operational excellence. These will guide every decision we make as we scale the business, deepen our customer partnerships, and lead the market in supply chain connectivity solutions.”

    Supporting this strategic evolution, the company also announced Ray Greer as Chairman of the Board. Greer brings more than 35 years of leadership experience in the supply chain, transportation, and logistics sectors. He currently serves as an Operating Partner Consultant at Welsh, Carson, Anderson & Stowe, the private equity partner of TrueCommerce. Additionally, Kimberly Williams, CEO of Absorb LMS Software, joins the board, bringing three decades of executive experience across the technology sector.

    “This is an exciting inflection point for TrueCommerce,” said Greer. “With Bill at the helm and a clear strategic focus, the company is well-positioned to lead the industry through its next wave of growth. The board is fully aligned and confident in the leadership team’s ability to drive value, both for customers and stakeholders.”

    Glass succeeds Randy Curran, who recently retired from the CEO role. “We thank Randy for his leadership and the pivotal role he played over the past three years at TrueCommerce,” said Glass. “His focus on operations and organizational alignment has laid a strong foundation for our continued evolution and long-term success.”

    Connect with TrueCommerce

    About TrueCommerce

    At TrueCommerce, we empower businesses to improve their supply chain performance and drive better business outcomes. Through a single connection to our high-performance global supply chain network, businesses receive more than just EDI, they get access to a fully integrated network that connects their customers, suppliers, logistics partners and internal systems. Our cloud-based, fully managed services help businesses achieve end-to-end supply chain management, streamlined delivery, and simplified operations. With 25+ years of expertise and trusted partnership, TrueCommerce helps businesses reach their true supply chain potential today while preparing them for the future with our integration-agnostic network. That’s why thousands of companies—from SMBs to the global Fortune 100, across various industries—rely on us. To learn more, visit https://www.truecommerce.com.

    TrueCommerce is a trademark of True Commerce, Inc. All other trademarks are property of their respective owners.

    About Welsh, Carson, Anderson & Stowe

    WCAS is a leading U.S. private equity firm focused on two target industries: healthcare and technology. Since its founding in 1979, the firm’s strategy has been to partner with outstanding management teams and build value for its investors through a combination of operational improvements, growth initiatives, and strategic acquisitions. The firm has raised and managed funds totaling over $27 billion of committed capital. For more information, please visit WCAS.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/4b94bd3e-e600-45ed-8cfc-c3c651a51d61

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: AFT to launch National Academy for AI Instruction with Microsoft, OpenAI, Anthropic and United Federation of Teachers

    Source: Microsoft

    Headline: AFT to launch National Academy for AI Instruction with Microsoft, OpenAI, Anthropic and United Federation of Teachers

    Anthropic Media Relations
    [email protected]

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: AMERICA/VENEZUELA – The children of the Apostolic Vicariate of Caroní celebrate their Jubilee

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Tuesday, 8 July 2025

    OMP Venezuela Vicariato Apostolico Caronì

    Ciudad Guayana (Agenzia Fides) – “Children and adolescents, you know Jesus, now go and invite other children.” With these simple words, Monsignor Gonzalo Alfredo Ontiveros Vivas, Apostolic Vicar of Caroní since April 2021, encouraged the children of the Vicariate who participated last week in the Jubilee dedicated to them, within the framework of the Jubilee of Hope.The Pontifical Mission Societies (PMS) of the Apostolic Vicariate of Caroní organized this Jubilee at the Episcopal See. More than 200 children from the Rectory, parish communities, and indigenous communities participated in these “three days,” lived in an atmosphere of joy and generosity, rediscovering the mission that the little ones carry out in their families and among their peers. Members of apostolic life communities, such as Semillas del Verbo, the Work of Mary, the Missionaries of Peace Community, as well as several diocesan priests, shared their testimonies of missionary life with the children.On the final day, the members of the Cathedral’s Missionary Childhood and Adolescence group, together with the diocesan team of the PMS of the Vicariate and the Children’s Animators of the different communities, received the “imposition” of the scarf around their necks, as a sign of perseverance and commitment to the mission. (EG) (Agenzia Fides, 8/7/2025)

    OMP Venezuela Vicariato Apostolico Caronì

    OMP Venezuela Vicariato Apostolico Caronì

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: EUROPE/GEORGIA – St. Camillus Rehabilitation Center: A project that can change the lives of many people

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Tuesday, 8 July 2025

    MI

    Kutaisi (Agenzia Fides) – A truly extraordinary project is currently taking shape in Kutaisi. The establishment of the “St. Camillus” Rehabilitation Center, whose initiatives also address autistic children and their families, is an important example of how solidarity and social commitment can address the challenges faced by vulnerable communities.The Center, launched by the Camillian NGO Madian Orizzonti Onlus in collaboration with the Camillian religious community in Georgia, aims to provide concrete support to those in need.Kutaisi is the second-largest metropolitan area in Georgia and the third-largest in the country by population. In a region where resources are scarce and poverty is widespread, a specialized facility that responds to the needs of children with autism spectrum disorders and their families is crucial.Often, in contexts like these, families often have to struggle on their own every day to find adequate support and care. The lack of trained staff and specialized facilities makes the situation even more difficult. The St. Camillus Center, with its range of therapy, psychological support, and educational activities, can become an important point of reference, not only for the practical help it provides, but also for the message of integration and dignity it conveys.”A project that can change the lives of many people and, above all, restore hope,” reads the statement from the Camillian NGO, sent to Fides.Among the initiatives that the Camillian missionaries have carried out in Georgia in the past for people with disabilities is the Diagnostic and Rehabilitation Center in the town of Akhaltsikhe, about 200 kilometers from the capital, Tblisi, in a country where living with disabilities is still associated with prejudice (see Fides, 11/6/2022). (AP) (Agenzia Fides, 8/7/2025)
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  • MIL-OSI Europe: ASIA/KOREA – Appointment of auxiliary bishop of Seoul.

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Tuesday, 8 July 2025

    Vatican City (Agenzia Fides) – The Holy Father has appointed the Reverend Matthew Kwang-Hee Choi, until now director of the Department of Culture and Communication and spokesperson for the metropolitan archdiocese of Seoul, Korea, as auxiliary bishop of the same ecclesiastical circumscription, assigning him the titular see of Elephantaria in Mauretania.Msgr. Matthew Kwang-Hee Choi was born on 21 September 1977 in Seoul. He studied philosophy and theology at the Catholic University of Korea, obtaining a licentiate in theology.He was ordained a priest on 2 July 2004 for the metropolitan archdiocese of Seoul.After ordination, he first served as parish vicar of Mook-dong and Shingsa-dong in Seoul (2004-2007). He was awarded a licentiate in biblical theology from the Pontifical Gregorian University of Rome (2008-2012), and exercised his pastoral ministry at the Catholic Youth Biblical Group (2013-2020). He served as formator in the Saint Peter formation programme for young priests of the metropolitan archdiocese of Seoul (since 2020) and deputy director of the Saint Imbert Centre for Spiritual Exercises in Seoul (2021-2023).Since 2023 he has been director of the Department of Culture and Communication of the metropolitan archdiocese of Seoul, member of the Presbyteral Council, secretary of the Public Relations Commission, member of the Commission for the Foreign Missions, member of the Archdiocesan Council, member of the Society for Study Grants of Onggi, member of the Commission for the Approval of Private Associations of the Lay Apostolate, member of the Commission for the Causes of Saints, deputy chair of the Diocesan Mass Media Commission, director of the Academy of Catholic Art, director of the Gallery 1898, head of the Association of Catholic Journalists, and head of Signis Korea.Since 2024, he has served as spokesperson for the metropolitan archdiocese of Seoul and head of external relations for the organization of World Youth Day Seoul 2027, and since 2025, member of the management board of the John Paul II Youth Foundation. (EG) (Agenzia Fides, 8/7/2025)
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    MIL OSI Europe News –