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  • MIL-OSI USA: Public-Private Analytic Exchange Program Virtual Fall Info Session #8

    Source: US Department of Homeland Security

    Headline: Public-Private Analytic Exchange Program Virtual Fall Info Session #8

    Public-Private Analytic Exchange Program Virtual Fall Info Session #8
    jesse.kerzner

    The Public-Private Analytic Exchange Program (AEP), sponsored by the Department of Homeland Security’s Office of Intelligence and Analysis on behalf of the Office of the Director of National Intelligence, invite you to attend the upcoming AEP Virtual Fall Info Session #8. 

    The AEP facilitates collaborative partnerships between private sector and government analysts to form several teams to address national and homeland security issues. Participants work to create unclassified joint analytic deliverables of interest to both the private and public sector. You must be a U.S. Citizen to participate.

    The AEP info session will include a detailed program overview, the importance of the program, the relationships built between the public and private sector, and how to apply. You will hear former AEP participants share their experience. We encourage everyone to come with questions for discussion!

    The information session will be held on Wednesday, October 30, 2024, from 2:00 pm to 2:45 pm ET. 

    Click here to register for the October 30th information session.

    To learn more about how to apply to the 2025 AEP, please visit our website or email the AEP Staff at AEP@hq.dhs.gov

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Security: Elsipogtog — Man arrested and charged in connection with Elsipogtog arson and mischief

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    The Elsipogtog RCMP Detachment has arrested a 29-year-old man in connection with an arson and mischief in Elsipogtog.

    On October 23, 2024, at approximately 8:20 p.m., members working at the Elsipogtog RCMP Detachment heard a loud bang. A short time later, it was discovered that the detachment building and one unmarked police vehicle had been vandalized. The same night at approximately 8:41 p.m., police received a report of a residence on fire on Levi Street in Elsipogtog.

    Upon investigation, police were able to identify a person of interest. A 29-year-old man from Elsipogtog First Nation was located and arrested without incident.

    On October 25, 2024, 29-year-old Sonny Travis Bayley Francis appeared in Moncton Provincial Court where he was charged with:

    – Arson
    – Two counts of mischief under $5000
    – Three counts of failure to comply with a release order

    He was remanded in custody and is scheduled to return to court on November 8, 2024, for a bail hearing.

    Anyone with information that could help further the investigation is asked to contact the Elsipogtog RCMP Detachment at 506-523-8282. Information can also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers by calling 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), by downloading the secure P3 Mobile App, or by Secure Web Tips at www.crimenb.ca.

    The investigation is ongoing.

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI: MEF’s Enterprise Leadership Council Triples in Size, Driving Key Initiatives in Service Automation, Cybersecurity, and AI-Ops

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DALLAS, Oct. 29, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — MEF, a global industry association of network, cloud, security, and technology providers accelerating enterprise digital transformation, today announced the expansion of its Enterprise Leadership Council (ELC) from four founding members to 14 leaders representing a diverse range of industries. Formed one year ago, the ELC now includes executives from sectors such as entertainment, financial services, banking, retail, technology, healthcare, and consulting.

    This expansion highlights MEF’s commitment to providing real value to enterprises exploring Network-as-a-Service (NaaS) opportunities, reinforcing its role as an independent platform where enterprises, service providers, cloud, technology companies, and other key stakeholders, collaborate on initiatives shaping the future of the digital ecosystem. With expanded enterprise participation, the organization is poised to drive impactful projects that address cloud, network, and security challenges head-on, propelling innovation across industries.

    The ELC’s growth also reflects the increasing importance of enterprise perspectives in shaping MEF’s NaaS-related work. By tripling its membership in just one year, the council now offers a broader and more comprehensive view of enterprise needs across various sectors and has begun shaping strategic initiatives in areas such as service automation, cybersecurity services, compliance, and AI-Ops. 

    The ELC includes:

    • Francisco Artes, Vice President, Product & Enterprise Security, Roku
    • Nabil Bitar, Chief Technology Officer & Head of Network Architecture, Bloomberg LP
    • Maxime Bruynbroeck, Head of Network, Decathlon
    • Chris Carmody, Chief Technology Officer & Senior Vice President, Information Technology Division, UPMC
    • Daniel Foo, Head of Grabber Technology Solutions (GTS), Grab
    • Michael Jenkins, Strategic Negotiator, Google Enterprise Network
    • Amin Jerraya, Senior Vice President, Head of IT Digital Engagement and Infrastructure, Siemens Healthineers
    • Mark Looker, Managing Director and Head of Voice & Data Network Service, Morgan Stanley
    • Raleigh Mann, Senior Vice President of Technology, Williams-Sonoma, Inc.
    • Amo Mann, Chief Architect for Cloud and Network, Accenture
    • Chema San José, Head of Data & AI Architecture – CTO Global, Santander Digital Services
    • Neal Secher, Vice President, Head of Network Services, TD Bank
    • Jonathan Sheldrake, Vice President of IT – Infrastructure & Services, Burberry
    • Alejandro Tozer, Independent

    “The expansion of the Enterprise Leadership Council marks a pivotal moment in MEF’s evolution,” said Sunil Khandekar, Chief Enterprise Development Officer, MEF. “By amplifying the enterprise voice, we’re not only responding to current industry needs, but anticipating future ones. The ELC’s diverse expertise is already shaping MEF’s NaaS initiatives, which will drive real solutions for today’s challenges and lay the foundation for tomorrow’s innovations. This level of collaboration sets a new standard for how industry associations can lead meaningful progress.”

    A first initiative for the ELC is MEF’s recently launched Lifecycle Service Orchestration (LSO) Circuit Impairment & Maintenance (CIM) Service API, designed to enable service providers to automate and standardize how network circuit impairments and scheduled maintenance are communicated to enterprises. The CIM Service API will be showcased during a live demonstration at MEF’s Global NaaS Event (GNE) this week in Dallas, highlighting how enterprises can collaborate with service providers to proactively identify and address impairments and streamline network maintenance.

    As ELC-led initiatives continue to advance, MEF is attracting more enterprises eager to collaborate with technology, cloud, and service providers on MEF’s independent platform. Together, they contribute to and benefit from solutions that address critical needs in cloud, network, and cybersecurity infrastructure, accelerating digital transformation across sectors.

    Learn More
    Enterprises interested in joining MEF and contributing to projects that directly address their needs are encouraged to visit www.mef.net for more information on membership and engagement opportunities.

    About MEF
    MEF is a global consortium of service, cloud, cybersecurity, and technology providers collaborating to accelerate enterprise digital transformation. It delivers standards-based frameworks, services, technologies, APIs, and certification programs to enable Network-as-a-Service (NaaS) across an automated ecosystem. MEF is the defining authority for certified Lifecycle Service Orchestration (LSO) business and operational APIs and Carrier Ethernet, SASE, SD-WAN, Zero Trust, and Security Service Edge (SSE) technologies and services. MEF’s Global NaaS Event (GNE) convenes industry leaders building and delivering the next generation of NaaS solutions. For more information about MEF, visit MEF.net and follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter.

    Media Contact:
    Melissa Power
    MEF
    pr@mef.net

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: MEF Reports Significant Momentum in LSO API Adoption and Innovation

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DALLAS, Oct. 29, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — MEF, a global industry association of network, cloud, security, and technology providers accelerating enterprise digital transformation, today announced unprecedented momentum in its Lifecycle Service Orchestration (LSO) API adoption and innovation, with more than 160 global service providers from 65 countries involved in the adoption lifecycle. This momentum is underscored by MEF’s transformative initiatives, including an enhanced enterprise API portfolio, the innovative LSO Payload Factory program and new smart contracts work. These initiatives, coupled with new certification programs and LSO partner-finding tools, mark major progress in MEF’s mission to accelerate NaaS automation and digital transformation across the global NaaS ecosystem.

    “The rapid adoption of MEF’s LSO APIs across our global ecosystem reflects an ongoing shift towards automated, standardized service delivery,” said Daniel Bar Lev, Chief Product Officer, MEF. “With expanded capabilities for enterprises, the LSO Payload Factory program, and blockchain-driven smart contracts, we’re enabling a new standard of efficiency and flexibility in Network-as-a-Service. MEF’s commitment to collaboration and innovation ensures that every stakeholder in our ecosystem—from service providers to enterprises—can leverage open standards to deliver seamless, automated experiences.”

    Key Progress / LSO Developments

    Enterprise API Innovation
    Over the past year, MEF has expanded its APIs for business to also serve enterprises, enhancing the LSO offering and driving broader industry adoption. A key example is MEF’s Circuit Impairment & Maintenance (CIM) Service API, which bridges the gap between networks and applications, supporting the growing focus on network APIs. Demonstrated at GNE 2024 by AT&T, Bloomberg, Prodapt, UMPC, Verizon, and Williams-Sonoma, the CIM Service API exemplifies how real-time notifications can improve network management for enterprises. Through these open-standard APIs, enterprises gain access to NaaS capabilities, such as automated ecosystems, multi-domain connectivity, and enhanced management and visibility.

    Industry Standardization & Collaboration
    Its commitment to industry-wide API standardization has yielded significant results through MEF’s strategic industry collaborations with TM Forum and others. The coordinated approach enables each standards organization to focus on their core strengths while ensuring seamless integration across the ecosystem. For example, MEF LSO APIs provide business and operational automation between parties in an ecosystem while TM Forum Open API standards provide automation within each ecosystem partner’s systems.

    LSO Payload Factory Program
    The new LSO Payload Factory program accelerates the standardization of machine-readable product descriptions for use in NaaS offerings. This innovative approach enables rapid development of pre-standard product payloads through member collaboration, which can be standardized in a later phase, addressing the market’s need for faster introduction of connectivity, cybersecurity, clouds, and resource products.

    Blockchain Integration
    MEF is pioneering the integration of blockchain technology and smart contracts in automated NaaS ecosystems to eliminate business friction between buyers and sellers. Through its adoption of a groundbreaking ‘mutual endorsement in real-time’ approach, MEF has become the first telecom industry consortium to standardize blockchain usage for business between ecosystem partners. This innovation was demonstrated in a NaaS Accelerator project, where members successfully developed and piloted automated SLA reporting—creating the industry’s first smart contract-based solution that ensures immediate agreement between parties and dramatically reduces service delivery disputes.

    Future Roadmap and Initiatives

    Product Payload Evolution
    MEF’s LSO product payload roadmap continues to expand with significant additions planned for Q4 2024, including standardized descriptions for wavelength services, cloud connectivity, cross-connects, Internet access, edge compute, and CAMARA Quality on Demand. This growing portfolio of standardized payloads, developed through the LSO Payload Factory program, will enable service providers to rapidly integrate new services into their NaaS offerings throughout 2025, accelerating time-to-market for innovative network services.

    LSO API Certification Program
    A new phase of MEF’s LSO API Certification Program will launch in Q4 2024, combining development-stage IT testing with market-ready certification validation. The updated certification framework provides definitive proof of LSO API interoperability readiness for service providers and enterprises. As API-driven automation becomes increasingly critical for business operations, MEF’s certification program ensures participants can confidently engage in standardized, interoperable API implementations across the NaaS ecosystem.

    LSO Partner Identification Tools
    A comprehensive interoperable partner identification platform will launch in Q4 2024 that will dramatically speed up the connection of LSO API implementers with potential partners. This dynamic platform will provide real-time visibility into the LSO API capabilities of participants, enabling companies to quickly identify and engage with compatible partners.

    More information
    More information on the MEF’s LSO API portfolio and all available assets can be found on the MEF’s LSO Marketplace. MEF’s LSO API onboarding and interoperability test (OIT) service can be found on MEF.net.

    Many of the companies in production or committed to production with LSO APIs can be found in the LSO Partners Directory.

    About MEF
    MEF is a global consortium of service, cloud, cybersecurity, and technology providers collaborating to accelerate enterprise digital transformation. It delivers standards-based frameworks, services, technologies, APIs, and certification programs to enable Network-as-a-Service (NaaS) across an automated ecosystem. MEF is the defining authority for certified Lifecycle Service Orchestration (LSO) business and operational APIs and Carrier Ethernet, SASE, SD-WAN, Zero Trust, and Security Service Edge (SSE) technologies and services. MEF’s Global NaaS Event (GNE) convenes industry leaders building and delivering the next generation of NaaS solutions. For more information about MEF, visit MEF.net and follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter.

    Media Contact:
    Melissa Power
    MEF
    pr@mef.net

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Stands Ready to Assist Havasupai Tribe Businesses and Residents Affected by the Flooding

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    “As communities across the Southeast continue to recover and rebuild after Hurricanes Helene and Milton, the SBA remains focused on its mission to provide support to small businesses to help stabilize local economies, even in the face of diminished disaster funding,” said Administrator Isabel Casillas Guzman. “If your business has sustained physical damage, or you’ve lost inventory, equipment or revenues, the SBA will help you navigate the resources available and work with you at our recovery centers or with our customer service specialists in person and online so you can fully submit your disaster loan application and be ready to receive financial relief as soon as funds are replenished.”

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Low-interest federal disaster loans are now available to Havasupai Tribe businesses and residents as a result of President Biden’s major disaster declaration, U.S. Small Business Administration’s Administrator Isabel Casillas Guzman announced.

    The declaration covers the Havasupai Tribe as a result of the flooding that occurred Aug. 22-23.

    Businesses of all sizes and private nonprofit organizations may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory and other business assets.

    For small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small businesses engaged in aquaculture and most private nonprofit organizations of any size, SBA offers Economic Injury Disaster Loans to help meet working capital needs caused by the disaster. Economic injury assistance is available to businesses regardless of any property damage.

    “SBA’s disaster loan program offers an important advantage–the chance to incorporate measures that can reduce the risk of future damage,” said Francisco Sánchez, Jr., associate administrator for the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the Small Business Administration. “Work with contractors and mitigation professionals to strengthen your property and take advantage of the opportunity to request additional SBA disaster loan funds for these proactive improvements.”

    Disaster loans up to $500,000 are available to homeowners to repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate. Homeowners and renters are eligible for up to $100,000 to repair or replace damaged or destroyed personal property, including personal vehicles.

    Interest rates can be as low as 4 percent for businesses, 3.25 percent for private nonprofit organizations and 2.813 percent for homeowners and renters with terms up to 30 years. Loan amounts and terms are set by SBA and are based on each applicant’s financial condition.

    Interest does not begin to accrue until 12 months from the date of the first disaster loan disbursement. SBA disaster loan repayment begins 12 months from the date of the first disbursement.

    On October 15, 2024, it was announced that funds for the Disaster Loan Program have been fully expended. While no new loans can be issued until Congress appropriates additional funding, we remain committed to supporting disaster survivors. Applications will continue to be accepted and processed to ensure individuals and businesses are prepared to receive assistance once funding becomes available.

    Applicants are encouraged to submit their loan applications promptly for review in anticipation of future funding.

    As soon as Federal-State Disaster Recovery Centers open throughout the affected area, SBA will provide one-on-one assistance to disaster loan applicants. Additional information and details on the location of disaster recovery centers is available by calling the SBA Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

    The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Time Is Running Out!

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency 2

    strong>Harrisburg, Penn — If you haven’t applied for federal disaster assistance from FEMA, time is running out. 
    The deadline for applications is November 12. If you live in Lycoming, Potter, Tioga or Union County and suffered loss of personal property or damage to your home due to Tropical Storm Debby on Aug. 9 -10, 2024, you should apply as soon as possible. 
    There are four ways to apply.  You can:

    Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362
    Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov
    Download the FEMA App
    Visit the remaining Disaster Recovery Center at 

    Tioga County: Valley Christian Church, 146 Maple Street, Westfield, PA 16950 

    Normal Hours of Operation: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday thru Saturday
    Election Day, Nov. 5: Temporarily Closed for the Day
    Veteran’s Day, Nov. 11: Hours of Operation: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

    November 12 will be here before you know it. Don’t delay! Register today
    For more information about the disaster recovery operation in Pennsylvania, visit fema.gov/disaster/4815
                                                                                         ###
    FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. FEMA Region 3’s jurisdiction includes Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia. Follow us on X at x.com/FEMAregion3 and on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/femaregion3.
    Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 833-285-7448. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. Multilingual operators are available (press 2 for Spanish and 3 for other languages).

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Europe: President Meloni attends Italy-Libya Business Forum in Tripoli

    Source: Government of Italy (English)

    The President of the Council of Ministers, Giorgia Meloni, travelled to Tripoli today to participate in the first Italy-Libya Business Forum to be held in Libya for over ten years.

    The Business Forum gathered together high-level representatives from the Italian and Libyan business communities, and was structured across four sector-specific working groups dedicated to: energy; fishing and agro-industry; healthcare and pharmaceuticals; and, infrastructure and design. There was also a session focusing on the forms of public support available to Italian companies intending to do business in Libya provided by ICE [Italian Trade and Investment Agency], SACE [Italian Export Credit Agency] and SIMEST.

    During her opening address, the President of the Council of Ministers, who was accompanied by Minister of Enterprises and Made in Italy Adolfo Urso, announced that ITA Airways would be resuming direct flights to Libya in January next year, testifying to the gradual and steady strengthening of cooperation between the two nations.

    In the margins of the Business Forum, President Meloni had a bilateral meeting with the Prime Minister of the Libyan Government of National Unity, Abdul Hamid Dabaiba.
    Their discussion focused on the various areas of the continuously growing bilateral cooperation. Among the sectors in which Italy and Libya collaborate, the two leaders addressed the issue of migration management, in relation to which President Meloni stressed the need to intensify efforts to combat human trafficking at the same time as boosting cooperation with nations of origin and of transit, in the context of the Rome Process and the Trans-Mediterranean Migration Forum which was held in Tripoli in July.

    In closing, there was also unanimous agreement to work together with the goal of creating equal partnerships with African nations within the framework of the concrete projects launched as part of the Mattei Plan for Africa.

    [This video is available in Italian only]

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI Security: Meeting between NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte and President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen

    Source: NATO

    Today Secretary General Rutte met with President von der Leyen for the first time since Mr Rutte took office at the helm of NATO.

    Their discussion focused on the importance of a close and strategic partnership between NATO and the European Union. 

    Both agreed that in an increasingly dangerous world, this partnership is vital in order to champion and safeguard peace, freedom and prosperity. 

    Russia’s war of aggression on European soil is the single biggest threat to peace and security on the European continent. 

    Secretary General Rutte and President von der Leyen both emphasised that the deployment of North Korean soldiers in support of Russia’s war of aggression represented a significant escalation of the war against Ukraine as well as a serious threat to European security and global peace.

    They also discussed the growing assertiveness of authoritarian states on the world’s stage. These states challenge our common interests, values and democratic principles, using multiple means – political, economic, technological and military.

    To address these evolving threats and challenges, Secretary General Rutte and President von der Leyen have agreed today to set up a new high-level task force to strengthen the existing NATO-EU cooperation.  Planning for the first meeting of the task force is expected to move forward in the coming weeks.

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI: Form 8.3 – Good Energy Group Plc

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    8.3

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

    1.        KEY INFORMATION

    (a)   Full name of discloser: Rathbones Group Plc
    (b)   Owner or controller of interests and short positions disclosed, if different from 1(a):
            The naming of nominee or vehicle companies is insufficient. For a trust, the trustee(s), settlor and beneficiaries must be named.
     
    (c)   Name of offeror/offeree in relation to whose relevant securities this form relates:
            Use a separate form for each offeror/offeree
    Good Energy Group plc
    (d)   If an exempt fund manager connected with an offeror/offeree, state this and specify identity of offeror/offeree:  
    (e)   Date position held/dealing undertaken:
            For an opening position disclosure, state the latest practicable date prior to the disclosure
    28/10/2024
    (f)   In addition to the company in 1(c) above, is the discloser making disclosures in respect of any other party to the offer?
            If it is a cash offer or possible cash offer, state “N/A”
    No

    2.        POSITIONS OF THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE

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

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

    Class of relevant security: 5p Ord
      Interests Short positions
      Number % Number %
    (1)   Relevant securities owned and/or controlled: 338,643 1.85%    
    (2)   Cash-settled derivatives:        
    (3)   Stock-settled derivatives (including options) and agreements to purchase/sell:        

            TOTAL:

    338,643 1.85%    

    All interests and all short positions should be disclosed.

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

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

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

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

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

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

    (a)        Purchases and sales

    Class of relevant security Purchase/sale Number of securities Price per unit
           

    (b)        Cash-settled derivative transactions

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

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

    (i)        Writing, selling, purchasing or varying

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

    (ii)        Exercise

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

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

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

    4.        OTHER INFORMATION

    (a)        Indemnity and other dealing arrangements

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

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

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

    (c)        Attachments

    Is a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions) attached? No
    Date of disclosure: 29/10/2024
    Contact name: Chinwe Enyi – Compliance Department
    Telephone number: 0151 243 7053

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

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

    The Code can be viewed on the Panel’s website at.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Azincourt Energy Options Advanced Uranium Project in Labrador

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Oct. 29, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — AZINCOURT ENERGY CORP. (“Azincourt” or the “Company”) (TSX.V: AAZ, OTC: AZURF), is pleased to announce that it has entered into a definitive property option agreement with BR Corporation Pty Ltd. (the “Optionor”), an arms-length party, pursuant to which it has been granted the option (the “Option”) to acquire up to a one-hundred percent interest in and to a mineral claim block located in the Province of Newfoundland and Labrador, commonly known as the “Snegamook Project” (the “Project”).

    The Project is strategically located to the southeast of Snegamook Lake within Labrador’s Central Mineral Belt and less than 1 km south of the Two Time Zone Project (Indicated and Inferred resource of 5.55 Mlb U3O8, June 2008)*, formerly held by Silver Spruce Resources Inc., and consists of a mineral claim block comprised of 17 contiguous claims covering 423 hectares. The Central Mineral Belt in Labrador also hosts Paladin Energy Limited’s recently acquired Michelin deposit (Measured and Indicated resource of 82.2Mlb U3O8).* Readers are cautioned that past results or discoveries on properties in proximity to the Project are not necessarily indicative of the presence of similar mineralization on the Project.

    Exploration work on the Project between 2006 and 2008 consisted of airborne geophysics, prospecting, lake sediment and soil sampling, radon gas surveys and diamond drilling. The exact number of holes completed on the current Project has not yet been verified. Drilling to follow up a radon gas anomaly identified the “Snegamook Zone” uranium occurrence located 1.3 km along strike to the southeast of the Two Time Zone Project. 17 drill holes intersected a 20 to 50 m wide section of uranium bearing brecciated and altered monzodiorite with moderate to strong chlorite, hematite and carbonate alteration, the same geological setting as the Two Time Zone Project. 

    Four mineralized lenses were traced over a strike length of 300 meters and to a vertical depth of 200 meters. The lenses are shallow dipping (15 to 20 degrees west) and vary in width from five to 53 meters with values ranging from 225 to 771 ppm U3O8. Individual one meter sample values range from 50 to 1,110 ppm U3O8, with the widest section in drill hole SN-08-8 averaging 206 ppm U3O8 over 73 meters. The zones appear to be disrupted to the south and down dip by steeply dipping fault structures that displace the basement gneiss but remain open to the north.

    Two drill holes (SN-08-18 and SN-08-20) tested a radon gas anomaly 500 meters to the south of the Snegamook Zone. They intersected nine meters (210 to 219 m) of 552 ppm U3O8 and five meters (191 to 196 m) of 224 ppm U3O8. Higher grade zones, 0.11% U3O8 over 3 m and 0.11% U3O8 over 2 m, were located within the highlighted zone in SN-08-18. 

    No work has been conducted on the Project since 2008. The Company’s initial focus will be on the compilation of all historic exploration data on the Project followed by the design and implementation of an initial drill campaign to verify and expand the historical mineralization.

    “We are excited to add the Snegamook Project to our portfolio,” said Vice President, Exploration Trevor Perkins. “The Central Mineral Belt in Labrador has seen a resurgence in activity recently and is relatively underexplored. It is exciting to get involved in an area that will potentially see the next wave of uranium discoveries in Canada,” continued Mr. Perkins.

    “We have been seeking a second uranium project for some time and Snegamook meets some important criteria for us,” said CEO, Alex Klenman. “The Project offers proven shallow mineralization proximal to a known deposit. It provides exploration upside for both expansion and for new discoveries. In the mid-2000s the region was quite active with uranium exploration activity and now once again there are some large companies leading exploration efforts in the area. This initial land position allows Azincourt to establish a foothold in this emerging Canadian uranium camp,” continued Mr. Klenman.

    Pursuant to terms of the Option, the Company can acquire a one-hundred percent interest in the Project by completing a series of share issuances and incurring certain expenditures on the Project, as follows:

      Common Shares Exploration Expenditures
    On the grant of the Option 15,000,000 Nil
    Within nine months 15,000,000 Nil
    Within twenty-one months 15,000,000 $250,000
    Within thirty-three months 15,000,000 $750,000
         

    Following exercise of the Option, the Project will be subject to a two percent net smelter returns royalty, half of which may be purchased back at any time for a one-time cash payment of $1,000,000 to the underlying optionors.

    All securities issued in connection with the Option will be subject to a four-month-and-one-day statutory hold period. A finder’s fee totaling 5,100,000 common shares is payable by the Company to an arms-length third party in connection with the Option, of which 1,633,333 shares are payable upon closing of the Option with the remaining common shares issuable upon completion of the share issuances owing on the nine, twenty-one and thirty-three month anniversaries in order to maintain the Option in good standing. The Option remains subject to the approval of the TSX Venture Exchange (the “Exchange”).

    Figure 1: Snegamook Project Location Map – Central Mineral Belt, Labrador, Canada.

    Figure 2: Snegamook and Two Time Zone mineralization map. (Silver Spruce Resources news release dated August 12, 2008)

    Non-Brokered Private Placement

    The Company also announces that it will offer up to 66,666,667 units of the Company by way of non-brokered private placement at a price of $0.015 per unit for gross proceeds of up to $1,000,000 (the “Private Placement”). Each Unit will be comprised of one common share (a “Share”) and one common share purchase warrant (a “Warrant”). Each Warrant will be exercisable at a price of $0.05 into one common share for a period of 36 months from the date of issue.

    The gross proceeds of the Private Placement will be used for general working capital and exploration work on the Project. The gross proceeds will not be used for any payments to non-arm’s length parties of the Company nor for any payment relating to persons conducting investor relations activities.

    In connection with the Private Placement, the Company may pay finders’ fees to eligible third parties that have assisted in introducing subscribers to the Company. All Common Shares to be issued in connection with the Private Placement will be subject to a four-month-and-one-day statutory hold period in accordance with applicable securities laws. Completion of the Private Placement remains subject to the approval of the Exchange. It is expected that the Private Placement will not result in the creation of a new control person of the Company.

    Grant of Restricted Share Units

    The Company also announces the grant of 15,000,000 restricted share units (“RSUs”) to directors, management and consultants under the Company’s shareholder-approved incentive plans. The RSUs will vest and convert into Common Shares on the date that is twelve months from the date of issuance. The grant of such RSUs is intended to align compensation of directors, management and consultants with the interests of shareholders.

    Qualified Person

    The technical information in this news release has been prepared in accordance with the Canadian regulatory requirements set out in National Instrument 43-101 and reviewed on behalf of the company by C. Trevor Perkins, P.Geo., Vice President, Exploration of Azincourt Energy, and a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101.

    About Azincourt Energy Corp.

    Azincourt is a Canadian-based resource company specializing in the strategic acquisition, exploration, and development of alternative energy/fuel projects. The Company has been a uranium explorer for over a decade and is currently active at its majority-owned joint venture East Preston uranium project located in the Athabasca Basin, Saskatchewan.

    *The historical interpretation and drill intersections described here in have not been verified and are extracted from news releases issued by Silver Spruce Resources Inc on April 24, 2008, and August 12, 2008, as well as annual Management Discussion and Analysis documents filed on www.sedarplus.ca, and disclosure published on the website for Paladin Energy Limited (www.paladinenergy.com.au). The Company has not completed sufficient work to confirm and validate any of the historical data from the Snegamook occurrence. The Company considers the historical work a reliable indication of the potential of the Project and the information may be of assistance to readers.

    ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF AZINCOURT ENERGY CORP.

    “Alex Klenman”
    Alex Klenman, President & CEO

    For further information please contact:

    Alex Klenman, President & CEO
    Tel: 604-638-8063
    info@azincourtenergy.com

    Azincourt Energy Corp.
    1430 – 800 West Pender Street
    Vancouver, BC V6C 2V6
    www.azincourtenergy.com

    Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

    This news release may contain certain “Forward-Looking Statements” within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and applicable Canadian securities laws. When or if used in this news release, the words “anticipate”, “believe”, “estimate”, “expect”, “target, “plan”, “forecast”, “may”, “schedule” and similar words or expressions identify forward-looking statements or information. Such statements represent the Company’s current views with respect to future events and are necessarily based upon a number of assumptions and estimates that, while considered reasonable by the Company, are inherently subject to significant business, economic, competitive, political, and social risks, contingencies and uncertainties. Many factors, both known and unknown, could cause results, performance, or achievements to be materially different from the results, performance or achievements that are or may be expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. The Company does not intend, and does not assume any obligation, to update these forward-looking statements or information to reflect changes in assumptions or changes in circumstances or any other events affecting such statements and information other than as required by applicable laws, rules, and regulations. 

    Neither the 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 release.

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/61a29d68-48bd-4716-a71a-30b0c384078a

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/06b89c9f-54d3-414e-a915-1a46e8e0ebb7

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: MEF Introduces New Membership Framework to Expand Participation in the Network-as-a-Service Ecosystem

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DALLAS, Oct. 29, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — MEF, a global industry association of network, cloud, security, and technology providers accelerating enterprise digital transformation, today announced the launch of a new subscription-based membership framework. The updated structure reflects MEF’s commitment to fostering growth in the evolving Network-as-a-Service (NaaS) landscape by increasing industry-wide participation and aligning more closely with the needs of today’s diverse ecosystem.

    MEF’s new membership subscriptions provide members with comprehensive access to MEF’s essential Lifecycle Service Orchestration (LSO) resources, including SDKs, developer community support, and industry-leading test and certification services. These tools enable organizations to accelerate product development, achieve greater interoperability, and strengthen their market position in the rapidly growing NaaS ecosystem.

    “The potential for the NaaS market is immense and will require participation from organizations of all types and sizes—from service providers and data centers, to enterprises, who, for the first time, have access to MEF’s full suite of services, tools, and APIs,” said Kevin Vachon, Chief Operating Officer, MEF. “These new membership subscriptions represent a major shift in how MEF engages with the broader network services ecosystem, expanding our offerings so that all industry players have the tools, resources, and opportunities they need to succeed in this market.”

    New Membership Options
    MEF’s new membership structure offers a range of options for the wide array of organizations shaping the NaaS ecosystem, from end-user enterprises and communications service providers (CSPs) to hyperscalers, SaaS providers, and network and security solutions providers. Through participating in MEF, these organizations can engage with global system integrators, data centers, test and certification specialists, and more, to shape the future of automated NaaS services.

    Membership provides professionals across various roles—whether C-level executives, product managers, architects, engineers, or marketing professionals—the ability to engage in meaningful ways. By participating in MEF’s work, they can influence the direction of the industry, enhance their company’s market positioning, and access resources that support service development and automation. MEF members also benefit from invaluable networking opportunities, leveraging MEF’s global community to collaborate with partners, suppliers, and customers, while driving digital transformation and uncovering new business opportunities.

    More information about MEF’s new membership model can be found at www.MEF.net/join. To learn more about MEF standards, LSO APIs and certification programs visit www.MEF.net.

    About MEF
    MEF is a global consortium of service, cloud, cybersecurity, and technology providers collaborating to accelerate enterprise digital transformation. It delivers standards-based frameworks, services, technologies, APIs, and certification programs to enable Network-as-a-Service (NaaS) across an automated ecosystem. MEF is the defining authority for certified Lifecycle Service Orchestration (LSO) business and operational APIs and Carrier Ethernet, SASE, SD-WAN, Zero Trust, and Security Service Edge (SSE) technologies and services. MEF’s Global NaaS Event (GNE) convenes industry leaders building, delivering and consuming the next generation of NaaS solutions. For more information about MEF, visit MEF.net and follow us on LinkedIn, Twitter and YouTube

    Media Contact:
    Melissa Power
    MEF
    pr@mef.net

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Issue of Equity

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    FORESIGHT TECHNOLOGY VCT PLC

    LEI: 21380013CXOR8N6OD977

    FWT Shares

    The Board of Foresight Technology VCT plc (the “Company”) is pleased to announce that in accordance with the terms of the Offer for Subscription dated 5 September 2024 (the “Offer”), 1,189,166 Foresight Williams Technology Shares (“FWT Shares”) of 1p each were allotted on 29 October 2024 at offer prices ranging from 98.3p to 104.0p based on an unaudited net asset value of 98.3p per share.

    Application has been made for the admission of the 1,189,166 FWT Shares of 1p each to the Official List of the FCA and to trading on London Stock Exchange plc’s market for listed securities on or around 30 October 2024.

    Total shares allotted to date under the Offer by the Company now total 1,189,166 FWT Shares. Following this allotment there are now 36,649,103 FWT Shares of 1p each in issue.

    For further information please contact:

    Gary Fraser, Foresight Group: 020 3667 8181

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: IC Mobile Partners with Openmind Networks to Launch Advanced Messaging Platform

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DUBLIN, Oct. 29, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Openmind Networks, a global leader in messaging platform solutions, is excited to announce a new partnership with IC Mobile, one of Canada’s top aggregator telecommunications companies. Openmind Networks has supplied its state-of-the-art messaging systems software and Short Message Service Center with Application Router ensuring all IC Mobile customers will have the benefit of advanced messaging systems.

    IC Mobile has been at the forefront of telecommunications innovation for over 15 years, leading the business messaging market in Canada. As the telecommunications industry rapidly evolves, IC Mobile remains dedicated to providing cutting-edge and reliable messaging services to their business clients. By selecting Openmind Networks as a key supplier, IC Mobile reinforces its commitment to the highest standards of security, reliability, and user experience in messaging.

    “The partnership with Openmind Networks will help bolster our market share in business messaging and enhance our offerings as the landscape evolves,” said Duncan McCready, President of IC Group. “Openmind Networks is a leading innovator in messaging systems, and we are delighted with their delivery within our time-to-market requirements.”

    Openmind Networks’ advanced messaging systems software is tailored to meet the needs of telecom providers worldwide. Focusing on security, reliability, and scalability, Openmind Networks enables operators to deliver seamless messaging experiences while protecting customer data and privacy.

    “We are excited to be chosen as the messaging system software provider for IC Mobile,” said Alex Duncan, CEO of Openmind Networks. “This partnership provides a fantastic opportunity to deliver high-quality messaging products to the North American market and explore new ways to enhance the end-user messaging experience.”

    For more information about Openmind Networks and its communication platform solutions, please visit www.openmindnetworks.com.

    About IC Mobile

    IC Mobile is a trusted carrier partner with direct connections to every Canadian mobile operator. They offer brands, marketing platforms, CPaaS providers, and more a single-point API that provides access to 100% of mobile users in Canada. IC Mobile is also the only business messaging platform that ensures full data localization in Canada, with all operations based within the country to keep all data local.

    About Openmind Networks

    Openmind Networks is an independent technology company focused on providing mobile messaging software solutions for the world’s largest telecom companies. Boasting a highly experienced team of messaging experts, Openmind Networks has consistently led the way in bringing new innovations to the mobile messaging industry for more than two decades.

    Openmind Networks is responsible for delivering more than 1.5 billion messages daily with a global customer base including the world’s largest mobile operators, wholesalers, aggregators, social media providers and software firms.

    Media Contact

    Brendan Tobin
    Director of Marketing
    Openmind Networks
    +353 1 633 0070
    brendan.tobin@openmindnetworks.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Economics: New Azure OpenAI Service updates enable companies to deploy and optimize AI models at scale

    Source: Microsoft

    Headline: New Azure OpenAI Service updates enable companies to deploy and optimize AI models at scale

    With the new enhancements to Azure OpenAI Service Provisioned offering, we are taking a big step forward in making AI accessible and enterprise-ready.

    In today’s fast-evolving digital landscape, enterprises need more than just powerful AI models—they need AI solutions that are adaptable, reliable, and scalable. With upcoming availability of Data Zones and new enhancements to Provisioned offering in Azure OpenAI Service, we are taking a big step forward in making AI broadly available and also enterprise-ready. These features represent a fundamental shift in how organizations can deploy, manage, and optimize generative AI models.

    With the launch of Azure OpenAI Service Data Zones in the European Union and the United States, enterprises can now scale their AI workloads with even greater ease while maintaining compliance with regional data residency requirements. Historically, variances in model-region availability forced customers to manage multiple resources, often slowing down development and complicating operations. Azure OpenAI Service Data Zones can remove that friction by offering flexible, multi-regional data processing while ensuring data is processed and stored within the selected data boundary.

    This is a compliance win which also allows businesses to seamlessly scale their AI operations across regions, optimizing for both performance and reliability without having to navigate the complexities of managing traffic across disparate systems.

    Leya, a tech startup building genAI platform for legal professionals, has been exploring Data Zones deployment option.

    “Azure OpenAI Service Data Zones deployment option offers Leya a cost-efficient way to securely scale AI applications to thousands of lawyers, ensuring compliance and top performance. It helps us achieve better customer quality and control, with rapid access to the latest Azure OpenAI innovations.—Sigge Labor, CTO, Leya

    Data Zones will be available for both Standard (PayGo) and Provisioned offerings, starting this week on November 1, 2024.

    Industry leading performance

    Enterprises depend on predictability, especially when deploying mission-critical applications. That’s why we’re introducing a 99% latency service level agreement for token generation. This latency SLA ensures that tokens are generated at a faster and more consistent speeds, especially at high volumes

    The Provisioned offer provides predictable performance for your application. Whether you’re in e-commerce, healthcare, or financial services, the ability to depend on low-latency and high-reliability AI infrastructure translates directly to better customer experiences and more efficient operations.

    Lowering the cost of getting started

    To make it easier to test, scale, and manage, we are reducing hourly pricing for Provisioned Global and Provisioned Data Zone deployments starting November 1, 2024. This reduction in cost ensures that our customers can benefit from these new features without the burden of high expenses. Provisioned offering continues to offer discounts for monthly and annual commitments.

    Deployment option Hourly PTU One month reservation per PTU One year reservation per PTU
    Provisioned Global Current: $2.00 per hour
    November 1, 2024: $1.00 per hour
    $260 per month   $221 per month
    Provisioned Data ZoneNew   November 1, 2024: $1.10 per hour   $260 per month $221 per month

    We are also reducing deployment minimum entry points for Provisioned Global deployment by 70% and scaling increments by up to 90%, lowering the barrier for businesses to get started with Provisioned offering earlier in their development lifecycle.

    Deployment quantity minimums and increments for Provisioned offering

    Model Global Data Zone New Regional
    GPT-4o Min: 50 15
    Increment 50 5
    Min: 15
    Increment 5
    Min: 50
    Increment 50
    GPT-4o-mini Min: 25 15
    Increment: 25 5
    Min: 15
    Increment 5
    Min: 25
    Increment: 25

    For developers and IT teams, this means faster time-to-deployment and less friction when transitioning from Standard to Provisioned offering. As businesses grow, these simple transitions become vital to maintaining agility while scaling AI applications globally.

    Efficiency through caching: A game-changer for high-volume applications

    Another new feature is Prompt Caching, which offers cheaper and faster inference for repetitive API requests. Cached tokens are 50% off for Standard. For applications that frequently send the same system prompts and instructions, this improvement provides a significant cost and performance advantage.

    By caching prompts, organizations can maximize their throughput without needing to reprocess identical requests repeatedly, all while reducing costs. This is particularly beneficial for high-traffic environments, where even slight performance boosts can translate into tangible business gains.

    A new era of model flexibility and performance

    One of the key benefits of the Provisioned offering is that it is flexible, with one simple hourly, monthly, and yearly price that applies to all available models. We’ve also heard your feedback that it is difficult to understand how many tokens per minute (TPM) you get for each model on Provisioned deployments. We now provide a simplified view of the number of input and output tokens per minute for each Provisioned deployment. Customers no longer need to rely on detailed conversion tables or calculators. 

    We are maintaining the flexibility that customers love with the Provisioned offering. With monthly and annual commitments you can still change the model and version—like GPT-4o and GPT-4o-mini—within the reservation period without losing any discount. This agility allows businesses to experiment, iterate, and evolve their AI deployments without incurring unnecessary costs or having to restructure their infrastructure.

    Enterprise readiness in action

    Azure OpenAI’s continuous innovations aren’t just theoretical; they’re already delivering results in various industries. For instance, companies like AT&T, H&R Block, Mercedes, and more are using Azure OpenAI Service not just as a tool, but as a transformational asset that reshapes how they operate and engage with customers.

    Beyond models: The enterprise-grade promise

    It’s clear that the future of AI is about much more than just offering the latest models. While powerful models like GPT-4o and GPT-4o-mini provide the foundation, it’s the supporting infrastructure—such as Provisioned offering, Data Zones deployment option, SLAs, caching, and simplified deployment flows—that truly make Azure OpenAI Service enterprise-ready.

    Microsoft’s vision is to provide not only cutting-edge AI models but also the enterprise-grade tools and support that allow businesses to scale these models confidently, securely, and cost-effectively. From enabling low-latency, high-reliability deployments to offering flexible and simplified infrastructure, Azure OpenAI Service empowers enterprises to fully embrace the future of AI-driven innovation.

    Get started today

    As the AI landscape continues to evolve, the need for scalable, flexible, and reliable AI solutions becomes even more critical for enterprise success. With the latest enhancements to Azure OpenAI Service, Microsoft is delivering on that promise—giving customers not just access to world-class AI models, but the tools and infrastructure to operationalize them at scale.

    Now is the time for businesses to unlock the full potential of generative AI with Azure, moving beyond experimentation into real-world, enterprise-grade applications that drive measurable outcomes. Whether you’re scaling a virtual assistant, developing real-time voice applications, or transforming customer service with AI, Azure OpenAI Service provides the enterprise-ready platform you need to innovate and grow.

    Start today with Azure OpenAI Service

    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Why is the Democratic Republic of Congo wracked by conflict?

    Source: Amnesty International –

    The Democratic Republic of Congo’s (DRC) crisis stems from a series of post-colonial battles from power, which began after the country gained independence from Belgium in 1960. Decades of conflict have been fuelled by ethnic tensions, political rivalries, corruption and fighting for control of valuable natural resources. 

    DRC’s current conflict has been ongoing since the 1990s, particularly in the eastern part of the country which borders South Sudan, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi and Tanzania. Inter-communal violence regularly breaks out in other regions, as it has been the case recently in central, southern and  western provinces of Kasaï, Tshopo, Mai-Ndombe, Kwilu and Kwango. 

    There are currently over a hundred active armed groups in the DRC. Many of them are local militias seeking to protect their communities after over three decades of unrest. Loyalties and rivalries between groups are constantly evolving and generally guided by ethnic identities, economic interests and political manipulation. 

    MIL OSI NGO

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: CNO Franchetti and MCPON Honea visit NSWC Panama City Division

    Source: United States Navy

    Franchetti and Honea’s visit provided the opportunity for them to see firsthand how NSWC PCD, one of the Navy’s premiere research, development, test and evaluation laboratories, supports the fleet through capabilities including mine warfare, expeditionary warfare, robotics, autonomous systems, and naval special warfare.

    “It was really exciting to see all the amazing work that is going on all around here. I got to walk around and talk with many [people from this workforce], the commands here and the service members,” said Franchetti. “I’m very excited about the future. It is a very bright future thanks to all the great work that you’re doing here today and have been doing for quite some time.”

    Franchetti and Honea spent the first part of their visit engaging with sailors and civilians, while learning more about capabilities to ensure wartime readiness.

    “NSWC PCD continues to meet mission readiness by ensuring alignment to the CNO’s Navigation Plan, which poises our Navy to enhance the Navy’s long-term advantage,” said Capt. David Back, NSWC PCD commanding officer. “It is an honor to host the CNO and MCPON.”

    Dr. Peter Adair, SES, NSWC PCD technical director, emphasized the significance of getting NSWC PCD’s capabilities to the fleet rapidly.

    “Taking sailors and marines out of harm’s way and reducing the operational timeline is imperative. Unmanned technologies are how we are going to get there,” said Adair. “It is our role to ensure the fleet has the capabilities they need for today, tomorrow and the Navy after next.”

    The visit concluded with a CNO and MCPON-led All Hands Call with sailors and civilians across Naval Support Activity Panama City.

    The warfighter is the Navy’s asymmetric advantage. Franchetti’s Navigation Plan 2024 America’s Warfighting Navy outlines the need to build our unmatched warfighting teams—active and reserve Sailors, with Navy civilians—through a relentless focus on training and learning.

    “When I am asked ‘who is the warfighter’ many groups of people come to mind. There are our sailors, on the frontline, but there are also those in the behind the scenes that contribute significantly to Project 33 and to the Navy getting real, getting better,” said Franchetti during her All-Hands address. “I am incredibly grateful for the hard work each of you put into ensuring our mission not only advances operationally, but processes continue to improve so we can support the frontline more efficiently and safely.”

    Fourteen individuals were recognized for their significant contributions to the Navy, including 13 sailor recognitions for achievements.

    CNO and MCPON presented a Meritorious Civilian Service Award to Andrea Perles, leader in mine warfare for the U.S. Navy. NSWC PCD also announced Hospital Corpsman Second Class Nicholas Harburckak from Chambers, Neb., as the Junior Sailor of the Year and Aviation Ordnanceman First Class Kevin Rodriguez from Smithfield, Va., as the Sailor of the Year at this installation.

    The visit provided Franchetti and Honea with a richer understanding of NSWC PCD’s mission to support the America’s Warfighting Navy.

    “It is your efforts, your dedication, and your expertise that provides us with the capabilities and enablement of manned and unmanned vessels in the fleet,” said Honea. “Whether you are wearing a uniform or intricately in the behind the scenes, the work you do matters.”

    This was Franchetti and Honea’s first visit to NSWC PCD as Chief of Naval Operations and Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy.

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: USS George Washington Carrier Strike Group leads Task Force 70 surface, air forces into Keen Sword 25

    Source: United States Navy

    Keen Sword is the latest in a series of joint-bilateral field training exercises designed to increase combat readiness and interoperability of Japan Self-Defense Forces (JSDF) and U.S. forces.

    In addition to Carrier Air Wing 5 and the strike group staff, embarked aboard the flagship Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73), CTF 70 is represented in the exercise by the expeditionary Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 134, as well as the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Lake Erie (CG 70) and the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Preble (DDG 88), both operating under Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 15.

    “The George Washington Carrier Strike Group’s presence is crucial in Keen Sword 25,” said Rear Adm. Greg Newkirk, commander of Task Force 70 and the carrier strike group. “In Keen Sword, our strike group rehearses complex, high-end warfighting with the joint force and allies. This type of exercise showcases the range, agility and lethality of our unified force and reestablishes the George Washington Carrier Strike Group in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations with emphasis.”

    George Washington, returning in its second stint as the U.S. Navy’s aircraft carrier forward-deployed to Japan, departed the San Diego area on Oct. 8 to begin operations in the Indo-Pacific.

    The carrier was previously forward-deployed to Yokosuka from 2008 to 2015, and will return there in late fall after completion of its current patrol. The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) served as the forward-deployed carrier from 2015 until earlier this year.

    “Keen Sword 25 provides the George Washington CSG an arena to flex its considerable capability in the air, surface and information domains,” said Newkirk. “Not only is the strike group conducting dynamic flight operations and complex expeditionary logistics during this exercise, it is also serving as a hub for tactical decision-making, driving action and reaction among forces throughout the region.”

    The CSG team, with DESRON 15, is coordinating with Lake Erie, operating with allies in the Philippine Sea near Okinawa, as well as Preble, which is in Yokosuka providing a platform for bilateral Tomahawk Land-Attack Missile (TLAM) training with Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force specialists.

    Keen Sword is a biennial exercise designed to help promote peace and security in the Indo-Pacific region. This exercise, and others like it, are an opportunity to demonstrate to the world the will of the U.S. and allies to defend Japan, as well as the ironclad nature of the U.S.-Japan alliance, which has stood for more than 70 years.

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI USA: President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves U.S. Virgin Islands Disaster  Declaration

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    On October 25, 2024, President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. declared that a major disaster exists in the territory of the U.S. Virgin Islands and ordered Federal assistance to supplement territory and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by Tropical Storm Ernesto from August 13 to August 16, 2024.
    Federal funding is available to territory and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by Tropical Storm Ernesto in the islands of St. Croix, St. John, St. Thomas, and Water Island.
    Federal funding is also available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures for the entire territory.
    Lai Sun Yee of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has been appointed to coordinate Federal recovery operations in the affected areas. 
    Additional designations may be made at a later date if requested by the territory and warranted by the results of further damage assessments.
    Residents and business owners who sustained losses in the designated areas can begin applying for assistance at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 800-621-FEMA (3362), or by using the FEMA App. Anyone using a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, can give FEMA the number for that service. 
    FOR FURTHER INFORMATION MEDIA SHOULD CONTACT THE FEMA NEWS DESK AT (202) 646-3272 OR FEMA-NEWS-DESK@FEMA.DHS.GOV.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Shaheen, Risch Issue Joint Statement in Response to Georgian Elections

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Jeanne Shaheen

    (Washington, DC) – U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a senior member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee (SFRC) and Chair of the Europe and Regional Security Cooperation Subcommittee, and Jim Risch (R-ID), Ranking Member of SFRC, released the following joint statement in response to the elections in Georgia over the weekend: 

    “Despite our recent concerns with democratic backsliding in Georgia, we had hoped to see a commitment by the Georgian government to run a free and fair election process that reflected the wishes of the Georgian people. In reality, we have witnessed something different in this weekend’s parliamentary elections. Reporting shared by the OSCE/ODHIR, International Republican Institute, National Democratic Institute, and ISFED show multiple violations that severely compromised the standards for democratic elections. We are also alarmed by the dozens of reports of election day interference, including violence, voter intimidation and ballot stuffing, that could have further damaged the integrity of yesterday’s election results.  
     
    “We call on the Department of State, in partnership with our European friends, to immediately investigate reports of fraud and any external interference to determine whether any actions have seriously impacted the outcome of the elections. Those responsible should be held accountable.  

    “This is a precarious moment for Georgia. The ruling party, Georgian Dream, must recognize that its actions could have immediate consequences on its economic and security agenda. Russia has also undoubtedly benefitted from sowing division and disinformation. We recognize the right of the Georgian people to, if they so choose, protest peacefully and call on the relevant Georgian authorities to respect this deeply important democratic right. 

    “If needed, we will make additional changes to our bipartisan legislation, the Georgian People’s Act, to ensure that those responsible for fraud and manipulation of the election process are held accountable. The US Senate is fully committed to supporting the democratic aspirations of the Georgian people.” 

    Last week, Shaheen and Risch announced that 10 additional Senators intend to cosponsor their bipartisan Georgian People’s Act legislation that would hold Georgian government officials and individuals responsible for corruption, human rights abuses and efforts to advance the foreign influence law or facilitate its passage.   

    Earlier this summer, Shaheen led a bipartisan, bicameral Congressional delegation to Georgia with U.S. Congressman Michael Turner (R-OH), Chair of the U.S. House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence and a member of the U.S. House Armed Services Committee. During their visit, Senator Shaheen and Chair Turner met with Georgian President Salome Zourabichvili, Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze, Foreign Minister Ilia Darchiashvili and Defense Minister Irakli Chikovani to once again raise concerns about democratic backsliding following the passage of the foreign agents law and anti-Western rhetoric and communicate the United States’ commitment to its longstanding partnership with people of Georgia to achieve a Euro-Atlantic future, including by facilitating a free and fair election in October. Shaheen and Turner’s visit came shortly after U.S. action to pause bilateral assistance to Georgia following recent actions undertaken by the Georgian government.   

    Before the trip, Shaheen and Risch issued a statement welcoming the action by the U.S. State Department to pause $95 million in assistance to the government of Georgia following passage of a foreign agents law. Shaheen first visited Georgia as an election observer with Senator Risch in 2012. She has visited the nation three times since.  

    In the annual defense legislation, Shaheen secured a provision that would require the Secretary of Defense to review security cooperation activities with Georgia in light of its new foreign agents law, a part of Shaheen’s and Risch’s bipartisan Georgian People’s Act. Prior to the vote in the Georgian Parliament, the Senators sent a bipartisan letter to the Prime Minister of Georgia urging the government to reconsider the bill.  

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Strengthened support to victims of prostitution and easier access to telephone help lines for victims of violence

    Source: Government of Sweden

    In its 2025 Budget Bill, the Government is presenting a range of initiatives to tackle men’s violence against women. The Government intends to propose strengthening support to victims of prostitution, and to allocate SEK 10 million for this purpose in 2025. The Government also intends to propose reinforcements to national telephone help lines for victims of violence, with the aim of preventing and combating men’s violence against women, intimate partner violence, honour-based violence and oppression, and prostitution and human trafficking. It is therefore proposed that the National Centre for Knowledge on Men’s Violence Against Women (NCK) at Uppsala University receive an additional SEK 7 million in 2025. The aim is to increase the national help lines’ response rate.

    “Efforts to prevent and combat men’s violence against women, intimate partner violence and honour-based violence and oppression are top priorities for the Government and the parties cooperating with it. That’s why we want to see an increase in support to people who are victims of prostitution, a highly vulnerable group of people. We also want to continue increasing support to the national phone help lines for victims of violence so that response rates can be improved. In order to combat violence and oppression, it is important that victims of violence can get through to the help lines,” says Minister for Gender Equality and Working Life Paulina Brandberg.

    “Displaced women are especially vulnerable to exploitation and are at risk of being forced into prostitution. Efforts to combat human trafficking are taking place on a broad front, of which an important part is supporting and helping those who are vulnerable,” says former Minister for Migration Maria Malmer Stenergard.

    “Women who are subjected to violence, abuse and coercive control must be given the support they need. This Government is investing heavily in combating the oppression of women, regardless of which form it takes,” says gender equality spokesperson Camilla Rinaldo Miller (Christian Democrats).

    “These initiatives are important steps in ensuring that no victim of violence is left on their own. The Sweden Democrats and the Government take these issues seriously and will continue working to ensure that every voice seeking help is heard,” says gender equality spokesperson Michael Rubbestad (Sweden Democrats).

    Strengthened support to victims of prostitution

    In the Budget Bill for 2025, the Government intends to propose a reinforcement of SEK 10 million in support to victims of prostitution in 2025. The Government also intends to propose a reinforcement of SEK 5 million in support to victims of prostitution in 2026. The proposal is based on an agreement between the Government and the Sweden Democrats.

    It is a priority that adults who want to leave prostitution or who have been trafficked for sexual purposes receive the protection, support and help they need, and that no children are subjected to sexual exploitation or human trafficking.

    In December 2023, the Government received the report Ut ur utsatthet (‘Out of vulnerability’ – Swedish Government Official Report 2023:97) from the Inquiry on an Exit Programme for Victims of Prostitution. The report is being processed by the Government Offices.

    Strengthening national help lines for victims of violence

    NCK operates help lines for women, men and trans people. NCK is implementing this help line on behalf of the National Centre against Honour-related violence and oppression.

    The telephone help lines are under a lot of pressure. Currently, 16 per cent of callers to the women’s help line do not even get in the queue, because the lines are so busy and the queue is full. 31 per cent of those phoning the women’s help line, 44 per cent of those calling the men’s help line, and 47 per cent of those calling the help line for trans people hang up before their call is taken. Particularly in the evening and at night, many people hang up before they get through to the front of the queue. 

    In the Budget Bill for 2025, the Government intends to propose an additional SEK 7 million per year to the help lines in 2025–2027. The proposal is based on an agreement between the Government and the Sweden Democrats. NCK also runs the ‘Right to choose’ (Rätt att välja) help line, a pilot project help line for people who have questions about, or who are being subjected to, honour-based violence and oppression.

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Shaheen Leads Roundtable on Youth Substance Misuse Prevention in Claremont, Visits Hypertherm to Discuss Workforce Development, Continues “Invest in NH Tour” With Visit to Schaefer Center for Health Sciences at Colby-Sawyer College Nursing School

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Jeanne Shaheen

    (Claremont, NH) – U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) led a roundtable in Claremont on substance misuse prevention with Youth CAN leadership and community members. She then visited Hypertherm in Lebanon to discuss workforce challenges, housing and child care. Later, Shaheen continued her “Invest in NH Tour” with a visit to the Schaefer Center for Health Sciences at the Colby-Sawyer College Nursing School, which she secured funding to build. Photos from today’s events can be found here.

    In Claremont, Shaheen led a roundtable with the Youth CAN coalition leadership team and community partners to discuss the organization’s work to prevent youth substance misuse in the Claremont and Newport area. Youth CAN is part of the Drug-Free Communities (DFC) Program which provides grants to local community coalitions to address the youth substance use disorder crisis.

    “It is crucial that we reach children as early as possible to educate them about the dangers of substance misuse, and one of our most effective tools to do that is the Drug-Free Communities Program, said Senator Shaheen. “I’ve strongly advocated for the program and was happy to meet with Claremont and Newport’s coalition and discuss their critical work to prevent substance misuse.”

    Shaheen has spearheaded crucial legislation and funding to stem the opioid epidemic, including to support the DFC Program. Shaheen recently introduced the Keeping Drugs Out of Schools Act to establish a new grant program that allows DFC coalitions to partner with schools to provide resources educating students about the dangers of drug use.

    Shaheen then visited Hypertherm, an employee-owned manufacturer of cutting products and software, to tour its facility and discuss the company’s in-house technical training program for workforce development, as well as engagement with Vital Communities’ Corporate Council to address regional housing and child care challenges. Vital Communities’ Corporate Council collaborates with Upper Valley employers to help solve the challenges they’re facing.

    “Many Granite State businesses, like Hypertherm in Lebanon, face complex barriers to recruiting and retaining a workforce,” said Senator Shaheen. “I was pleased to visit Hypertherm to learn more about the manufacturer’s innovative approach to workforce development and their collaboration with Vital Communities as well as discuss how Congress can continue help New Hampshire businesses address housing and child care challenges.”

    Senator Shaheen has long supported programs that support workforce development and increase opportunities and growth for New Hampshire businesses, including by tackling New Hampshire’s housing affordability crisis and the child care crisis. Recently, Shaheen joined Acting Secretary of Labor Julie Su at A Place to Grow to host a roundtable discussion at the facility to discuss the first U.S. Department of Labor approved apprenticeship program for early childhood education operations managers and a new report emphasizing the importance of care workers.

    Later, as part of her “Invest in NH Tour”, Shaheen visited the Schaefer Center for Health Sciences at Colby-Sawyer College to discuss its new nursing and health sciences facility, which is funded in part by Congressionally Directed Spending. Shaheen secured $1.5 million in the Fiscal Year 2022 government funding legislation to construct the new building and to help address critical health care workforce needs by training the next generation of nurses.

    “As health care workforce shortages continue to impact our state, I was glad to visit and tour the Schaefer Center for Health Sciences at Colby-Sawyer College where they’re training the next generation of nurses,” said Senator Shaheen. “I secured funding to help construct the building and was glad to learn more about how the program is working to fill desperately needed nursing positions in the Granite State.”

    Senator Shaheen has spearheaded numerous efforts in the Senate in support of New Hampshire’s health care workforce. During negotiations surrounding the American Rescue Plan Act, Shaheen helped steer efforts to increase funding for the Provider Relief Fund (PRF) to ensure hospitals, nursing homes and other health care providers on the frontlines had the support they needed to keep their doors open and continue to care for patients. As a senior member of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee, Shaheen secured $17,419,000 in Congressionally Directed Spending in the FY 2024 government funding legislation to support health care and education needs in the Granite State.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Call to would-be line managers to join pilot development course

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Civil servants can express their interest now in joining the course to create brilliant line managers

    Neil Alton, Government Skills

    The developers of a new, free course designed to create a pipeline of brilliant new line managers want volunteers to help pilot it.

    The course, called Achieving Your Potential, is for anyone who is not yet a manager but is thinking about becoming one and needs help to develop the skills, knowledge and networks to step into that new role confidently.

    Some 600 people are needed to take part in the pilot and anyone interested can register by completing this smart survey.

    “The course is designed for would-be line managers and its goal is to help learners get the knowledge and skills they need to step into a line management role before they are in one,” said Government Skills learning and development expert Neil Alton, Head of Early Career management Training (pictured).

    “It’s about enhancing their current ways of working as well as preparing them for the unique demands and responsibilities of managing others.

    “Through it we want to create a pipeline of brilliant new line managers who understand and comply with the new Civil Service Line Management Standards which are such a vital tool for ensuring the Civil Service is a great place to work.”

    The participants chosen to be part of the pilot will be divided into two cohorts – with one group starting in January and the second in May.

    “The purpose of having two groups is so we can compare the skills and knowledge of the group of people who have completed the course with the skills and knowledge of the group of people who have yet to do it,” said Neil.

    “Comparing results from the two groups will give us high-quality evidence so we can understand where the course is succeeding and where it might need further refinement.”

    Register your interest to do the Achieving Your Potential course by completing this survey.

    Updates to this page

    Published 29 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Welsh Secretary sees plans for a new clean energy hub

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    The Secretary of State for Wales has visited Associated British Ports and Dow in Barry as part of the UK Government’s mission to deliver economic growth.

    Welsh Secretary Jo Stevens at ABP Barry.

    The Secretary of State for Wales has visited two major employers in Barry in the Vale of Glamorgan as part of the UK Government’s mission to deliver economic growth. 

    Welsh Secretary Jo Stevens was given a tour of the Port of Barry and heard about Associated British Ports (ABP) and px Group’s plan for a Clean Growth Hub which aims to establish a cutting-edge facility where businesses can attract direct investment and create jobs.

    The plan aims to transform a large area of the operational port into an area of green, high-growth infrastructure investment. It is designed to attract companies involved in innovative industries such as battery materials, rare earth metal processing and green energy manufacturing.

    Earlier the same day the Welsh Secretary also visited Dow, a material sciences company, based on Cardiff Road, Barry. The site manufactures silicones for use in automotive, aerospace, energy infrastructure, construction and other industries across the UK and Europe. It employs more than 600 people with the majority living in the Vale of Glamorgan, as well as partnering with hundreds of suppliers – many based in and around Barry and South Wales.

    The Welsh Secretary heard about how Dow contributes to the growth of the regional economy and about the company’s plans for the future.

    Welsh Secretary Jo Stevens said:

    My number one mission is to deliver investment and jobs to Wales so it was fantastic to hear about the Port of Barry’s exciting plans for the Clean Energy Hub which will attract business and investors while helping achieve our mission of making Britain a clean energy superpower.

    We want to work in partnership with business to drive growth, opportunity and prosperity, so it was also great to spend time at Dow and see the work that they do to realise these ambitions in South Wales.

    Ralph Windeatt, ABP Group Head of Business Development, said:

    I was delighted to welcome the Secretary of State for Wales to our Port of Barry to discuss our plans for a Clean Growth Hub. 

    Associated British Ports’ five ports in South Wales are already becoming hubs at the heart of the green energy transition. With our partners px Group, we want to transform the Port of Barry to expand low-carbon, high-growth infrastructure investment. These plans will build on the low-carbon infrastructure we already have in place, including solar and wind power and green hydrogen production with our partners at EDF Hynamics and ESB International. 

    Our plans for a Clean Growth Hub will create jobs, mobilise inward investment and boost local prosperity and opportunity.

    Andrew Laney, Senior Site Manufacturing Director at Dow, Barry said:

    Dow is a business that plays a key role in South Wales, both socially and economically. The silicones we manufacture for so many industrial sectors across Wales, UK and Europe are proudly ‘Made in Barry’. 

    We were pleased to show the Secretary of State the operations on site and discuss how South Wales manufacturing can be well-recognised in the UK Government’s Industrial Strategy consultation.

    ENDS

    Updates to this page

    Published 29 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Museum of Oxford to mark 90th anniversary of historical Oxford events with a trilogy of plays

    Source: City of Oxford

    The Museum of Oxford is commemorating the 90th anniversary of three pivotal events in the city’s history with a trilogy of plays.

    Written by local playwright Peter Cann and directed by Tim Eyres, these performances bring to life Oxford’s working-class struggles during a turbulent year in 1934.

    Cutteslowe Walls

    The first play in the trilogy, The Cutteslowe Walls, recounts how a working-class community in North Oxford was separated from a nearby private estate by 9ft-high walls – which became known as “snob walls”. Built in December 1934, the walls stood for 25 years despite a long campaign to have them removed. The initial campaign to remove the walls was led by Abe Lazarus, a prominent trade unionist and communist organiser. Reginald Gibbs, a local councillor, also played a key role in these early efforts. After Reginald’s passing, his son Edmund and daughter-in-law Olive Gibbs continued the fight and the walls were finally demolished in 1959.

    The Lord Mayor of Oxford, Cllr Mike Rowley, will attend the premiere of The Cutteslowe Walls on 2 November.

    “I am honoured to be part of this commemoration. The Cutteslowe Walls symbolised a time of division in our city’s history, but the efforts of campaigners like Abe Lazarus and the Gibbs family remind us of the power of community and perseverance in fighting for fairness. This trilogy of plays allows us to reflect on these important struggles, while celebrating the spirit of unity that ultimately brought the walls down.”

    The Lord Mayor of Oxford, Councillor Mike Rowley

    Oxford’s Inferno

    The second play, Oxford’s Inferno, recounts the 1934 strike at the Pressed Steel factory in Cowley, which produced car bodies for the Morris car works. Workers walked out in protest against poor pay and harsh working conditions. The strike, initially involving 100 workers, soon grew to 1,000, led to the formation of a strong union that left a lasting impact on Oxford and beyond.

    Little Edens

    The final part of the trilogy, Little Edens, will be performed on December 7. Returning after a successful staging at the museum last year, the play focuses on the Florence Park Rent Strike. In September 1934, tenants of the newly built Florence Park estate began withholding rent in protest at poor living conditions. The homes, built by unskilled labourers, quickly deteriorated, prompting residents— many of whom had relocated from areas hit hard by the Great Depression, such as South Wales and Tyneside — to take action. After months of complaints, the residents embarked on a bitter rent strike, facing the threat of eviction. The strike highlighted the difficult conditions faced by many working-class families in Oxford.

    The trilogy performances are as follows:

    • Oxford’s Inferno and The Cutteslowe Walls: Saturday, 2 November at 2.30pm and 5.30pm (all sold out)
    • Little Edens: Saturday 7 December at 2.30pm and 5.30pm

    Tickets for the December performances are available from the Museum of Oxford shop or through Eventbrite.

    Comment

    “These stories show how working-class communities in Oxford shaped the city’s identity and contributed to wider social change. From fighting unfair working conditions to standing up against poor housing, the events portrayed in these plays demonstrate the resilience and solidarity of Oxford’s people. It’s great that these powerful stories can be shared with audiences at the Museum of Oxford.”

    Councillor Alex Hollingsworth, Cabinet Member for Business, Culture and an Inclusive Economy

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Councillors asked to endorse new ‘social contract’ to eradicate poverty

    Source: Scotland – City of Perth

    Despite being a relatively affluent area, Perth and Kinross has around 30,000 people living below the poverty line, with approximately 27,200 in deep or very deep poverty.

    Tackling poverty is one of the Council’s main priorities and the local authority helped establish the Anti-Poverty Taskforce jointly chaired by the Chief Executives of PKAVS and Giraffe to address poverty across Perth and Kinross. The Taskforce brings together a range of partners, including the Council, to work together on addressing poverty.

    Councillors will also discuss the sixth Annual Child Poverty Action report, which reveals there are still 5,750 children living in poverty in Perth and Kinross and sets out the actions that are being taken to reduce this number.

    Council leader Councillor Grant Laing said: “Many people view Perth and Kinross as an affluent area but the truth is poverty is a real and growing problem for many of our residents.

    “The Covid-19 pandemic and the cost-of-living crisis have both contributed to a situation that requires dedicated and co-ordinated action to solve.

    “For those living in poverty every day is a struggle and things that are an inconvenience to many of us – an unexpected bill or a spell of cold weather – can lead to a crisis for those on or close to the breadline. It is vitally important we support those people who find themselves in poverty.

    “Those living in rural areas, as many do in Perth and Kinross, also face additional challenges regarding employment, housing, transport and more.”

    Councillor Laing added: “The actions we are taking are showing results – there are now around 200 fewer children living in poverty now than there were last year. But that still leaves nearly 6,000 in poverty.”

    The social contract sets out four key principles that will guide the Council, and its partners, as they strive to lift residents out of poverty.

    These are:

    • No one should be in deep poverty: 
    • Those unable to work should not be in poverty: 
    • People should try to increase their earnings: 
    • Low earners should not be in poverty: Commitment to Collaboration:

    As part of these efforts, the Council is being asked to renew its commitment to collaborating with community partners, the third sector, and local communities to secure extra resources and support for those in deep poverty and provide addition resources for those unable to work due to health, disability or caregiving responsibilities.

    It is also being asked to support job seekers and those wanting to work more hours and help those on low incomes to achieve a better standard of living.

    Shaheena Din, joint chair of the Anti-Poverty Taskforce said: “Change happens when we come together.

    “By working as one, we can make a real difference in lifting people out of poverty, because no one person or organisation can tackle this challenge alone.”

    She added the Anti-Poverty Taskforce supports a range of people who are struggling to make ends meet. These include:

    • People facing ongoing hardship: Those on low incomes, whether they are receiving benefits or not, and may not be getting the support they’re entitled to.
    • People in deep poverty: Including single individuals without children, people from ethnic minorities, and households where someone has a disability.
    •  Those on or just below the poverty line: those struggling to make ends meet.
    •  People just getting by: managing on their own but often have little or no money left at the end of the month.
    •  Asset rich but cash poor: Homeowners with limited savings and financial assets that are hard to access and facing hardship.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Sylvia Garcia Celebrates EPA Grant for Port Houston’s PORT SHIFT Initiative

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Sylvia Garcia (TX-29)

    Houston, TX – Congresswoman Sylvia R. Garcia (D-TX-29) announced today that Port Houston’s innovative PORT SHIFT program has been selected to receive $2,983,457 in funding from the Environmental Protection Agency’s Clean Ports Program. This grant, funded by the Inflation Reduction Act, is a critical investment in cleaner air, reduced emissions, and green job opportunities for the region. 

    “I’m thrilled that Port Houston has been chosen for this Environmental Protection Agency grant, which will bring real, lasting benefits for our environment, economy, and the health of all families in the region. With its ambitious PORT SHIFT program, Houston is taking a bold step toward a cleaner, more sustainable future, and I’m proud to have helped make this possible by voting for the Inflation Reduction Act,” said Congresswoman Garcia.

    “PORT SHIFT is about more than moving cargo—it’s about building a port that’s prepared for the future and a community that’s healthier and stronger. With investments in zero-emission trucks, cleaner cargo handling, workforce training, and community engagement, Port Houston is setting the standard for what ports across America can accomplish. The Inflation Reduction Act is already paying off for the greater Houston region, and I’m excited to see Houston lead the charge toward a sustainable, greener future that benefits all,” concluded Congresswoman Garcia.

    “Port Houston is vital to our local, state, and national economy. This funding from the Environmental Protection Agency will support moving towards a more sustainable way of conducting port operations through the deployment of new zero-emission technology and ensure shore power readiness at all seven wharves at the Bayport Container Terminal,” said Houston City Council Member Joaquin Martinez. 

    “More importantly, near port communities will benefit from the grant’s plan to focus on climate and air quality planning. I’m grateful to Congresswoman Garcia for her leadership in securing this funding from the EPA and look forward to our continued partnership towards achieving carbon neutrality by 2050,” concluded Martinez. 

    The grant funding announced today will support climate and air quality efforts at Port Houston, including: 

    • Emissions inventory
    • Emissions reduction strategy analysis including truck route analysis, infrastructure cost assessment, climate action planning, and developing a performance measurement framework
    • Stakeholder collaboration with communities, trucking industry, and workforce
    • Resiliency planning

    Congresswoman Garcia in May led a letter to EPA Administrator Michael Regan alongside her colleagues, urging support for Port Houston’s grant applications. The letter emphasized how PORT SHIFT’s climate and zero-emission technology initiatives would transform the freight sector, reduce diesel pollution, and engage and empower nearby communities, particularly low-income and disadvantaged neighborhoods.

    The Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 allocated $3 billion to the EPA’s Clean Ports Program to fund zero-emission port equipment and climate planning at U.S. ports. This program aims to build a zero-emissions foundation across the port sector, improve public health, and set a new standard for environmental engagement in near-port communities.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Monica Pasillas Appointed IAM Grand Lodge Auditor

    Source: US GOIAM Union

    IAM General Secretary-Treasurer Dora Cervantes has appointed longtime IAM activist Monica Pasillas as a Grand Lodge Auditor, effective Oct. 1, 2024.

    Pasillas, a 13-year IAM member, initiated into IAM Chicago Local 2339O in 2011 as an ExpressJet flight attendant. She later transferred to Newark Local 2339N. She had taken on leadership roles in both locals including conductor sentinel, recording secretary, grievance representative and secretary-treasurer. In these capacities, she effectively advocated for the needs of members, played an integral role in ensuring their rights were upheld, participated in organizing and strike campaigns, and served on the Aviation Safety Action Program (ASAP) Event Review Committee.

    “Monica is as well-rounded an IAM activist as we have in our organization,” said IAM General Secretary-Treasurer Dora Cervantes. “She has a tireless commitment to serving our membership, and will be a huge help in ensuring the safe stewardship of our membership’s resources.”

    Pasillas, a fluent Spanish speaker with proficiency in French, expanded her leadership skills with her involvement in the Spanish Leadership at the IAM’s Winpsinger Center, where she helped promote education and support for Spanish-speaking members.

    “We’re thrilled to welcome Monica into her role as a Grand Lodge Auditor,” said Paul Kendall, IAM Assistant Secretary to the General Secretary-Treasurer. “Our Grand Lodge Auditing Team continues to adapt to the needs of our membership and assist every local across North America.”

    In 2018, Pasillas transitioned to the National IAM Benefit Trust Fund (BTF) as an education representative, gaining valuable insights into the health and welfare needs of the participants. The following year, she joined the General Secretary-Treasurer’s Office as an administrative staff secretary, where she has held key roles in the Central Files Department, Pension Department, and currently, the Auditing Department.

    “Monica brings a unique skill set and experience level to her new role as a Grand Lodge Auditor,” said Bryan Pinette, IAM Special Assistant to the General Secretary-Treasurer. “Our members will continue to be well-served by her determination to defend and protect our organization and the causes we care about.”

    Pasillas holds a bachelor’s degree in liberal arts and sciences with a concentration in commercial French studies and supporting coursework in finance from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. As a first-generation Mexican American growing up in Chicago’s northwest suburbs, Pasillas developed a strong sense of community and resilience. With a focus on empowering others by providing them with the resources and tools they need to thrive in their roles, she will continue to champion the voices of those like her, ensuring a bright future for all.

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  • MIL-OSI USA: NASA Relaunches Mentor-Protégé Program to Fill Supply Chain Gaps

    Source: NASA

    In an effort to grow new commercial markets that support the future of space exploration, scientific discovery, and aeronautics research, NASA is preparing to relaunch its Mentor-Protégé Program for contractors on Friday, Nov. 1.
    The program originally was launched to encourage NASA prime contractors, or mentors, to enter into agreements with eligible small businesses, or protégés. These agreements were created to enhance the protégés’ performance on NASA contracts and subcontracts, foster the establishment of long-term business relationships between small businesses and NASA prime contractors, and increase the overall number of small businesses that receive NASA contracts and subcontract awards.
    “The NASA Mentor-Protégé Program is a critical enabling tool that allows experienced companies to provide business developmental assistance to emerging firms,” said Dwight Deneal, assistant administrator for NASA’s Office of Small Business Programs (OSBP). “The program enables NASA to expand its industrial base of suppliers, as prime and subcontractors, to assist in executing the mission and programs throughout the agency.”
    The program’s relaunch follows an assessment of its policies and procedures by OSBP to ensure it continues to support NASA’s missions and addresses any supply chain gaps at an optimal level.
    To provide more information about the program and its relaunch, OSBP will host an online lunch and learn event on Thursday, Nov. 7, at 1:00 p.m. EST. The event is open to all current and potential mentors and protégés who want to learn more about changes in the program, qualifications to participate, and how to apply.
    “We are excited about rolling out the enhanced NASA Mentor-Protégé Program,” said David Brock, lead small business specialist for OSBP. “The program’s new focus will allow large businesses to mentor smaller firms in key areas that align with NASA’s mission and opportunities within the agency’s supply chain.”
    One key change expands eligibility to all small businesses, in addition to minority-serving institutions, including Historically Black Colleges and Universities, and Ability One entities. This expansion enables the program to support an inclusive environment for more small businesses and underserved communities to interact with NASA and its contractors.
    The program also will focus on engaging businesses within a select number of North American Industry Classifications System (NAICS) codes and specific industry sectors, such as research and development and aerospace manufacturing. These adjustments will allow the program to better support NASA’s long-term strategic goals and mission success.
    The program is designed to benefit both the mentor and the protégé by fostering productive networking and contract opportunities. In a mentor-protégé agreement, mentors build relationships with small businesses, developing a subcontracting base and accruing credit toward their small business subcontracting goals. In addition, protégés receive technical and developmental assistance while also gaining sole-source contracts from mentors and additional contracting opportunities.
    NASA is responsible for the administration and management of each agreement. The OSBP oversees the program and conducts semi-annual performance reviews to monitor progress and accomplishments made as a result of the mentor-protégé agreement.
    To apply to be a mentor, companies must be a current NASA prime contractor with an approved small business contracting plan. Companies also must be eligible for the receipt of government contracts and be categorized under certain NAICS codes. Potential protégés must certify as a small business within NAICS size standards.
    Find more information about participating in NASA’s Mentor-Protégé Program at:
    https://www.nasa.gov/osbp/mentor-protege-program

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: NASA Group Amplifies Voices of Employees with Disabilities

    Source: NASA

    Kathy Clark started her career at NASA’s Glenn Research Center in Cleveland straight out of high school, and when offered either a job as an accountant or a job in training, the choice was crystal clear.
    “I started in training, I’ve stayed in training, and I’ll probably retire in training,” said Clark, now a human resources specialist and program manager of NASA Glenn’s mentoring program, Shaping Professionals and Relating Knowledge (SPARK). “I just love people.”
    Celebrating 41 years at NASA this October, Clark has long been an advocate for employees. For over 12 years, she served as chair of the center’s Disability Awareness Advisory Group (DAAG), which works to help provide individuals with disabilities equal opportunities in all aspects of employment. The group also strives to identify and eliminate workplace barriers, raise awareness, and ensure accessible facilities.
    After recently stepping down, Clark reflects on her legacy of creating change with the group and looks to the next generation of leadership, including longtime member and new chair Ryan D. Brown, to continue its important mission.
    “Don’t Let a Disability Stop You”
    Clark joined DAAG around 12 years into her career, after she was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. She was later asked to serve as chair after she helped bring a traveling mural to the center that showcased Ohio artists with disabilities.
    During Clark’s time as chair, the group helped secure reserved parking spaces for employees with disabilities, instead of just relying on a first-come first-serve system for accessible spots. She recalls DAAG championing other facility issues, such as fixing a broken elevator and faulty door that presented challenges for folks with disabilities. The group has also worked with human resources to compile best practices for interviews, hosted various speakers, and offered a space for members to share about their disabilities.
    “I was honored to be the chair and just be there for the people and to try to make a difference, to let them know, if you need something, reach out,” Clark said. “Don’t let a disability stop you.”

    Kathy clark

    “Let’s Go Above and Beyond”
    When it was time to choose Clark’s successor, she said, another supportive and vocal member stood out: Brown.
    Thanks to an Ohio program for individuals with disabilities, Brown was placed at NASA as an intern in 2006, later completing a co-op that led to a full-time accounting position at the center, where he now works as a lead in the financial systems branch.
    More than one in four adults in the United States have some type of disability, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and some are not always easy to see, Brown says. For instance, Brown has an invisible disability: a learning disability related to reading and writing. After connecting with a coworker early in his career who was a member of DAAG, Brown reached out to Clark to join.
    “Everyone has their challenges, regardless of if you have a disability or not, so making people comfortable talking about it and bringing it up is always good,” he said. “I think I’ve always liked speaking up for individuals and trying to spread that awareness, which has been great with DAAG.”
    Now the chair, Brown has supported the group in developing a job aid to help employees understand how to self-identify as having a disability. They’ve also recently organized awareness events to help other employees understand the experiences and challenges of individuals with disabilities.
    DAAG also continues to champion facility updates. For example, the group is currently working to get automatic door openers installed for bathrooms in buildings at the center where many employees gather.
    “Let’s try to go above and beyond and really make it easier on individuals,” Brown said.

    ryan D. brown

    “Make a Difference”
    Membership in the group is growing, and Clark looks forward to its future.
    “I could not have turned over the chair role to a better person than Ryan,” she said.
    Brown’s vision is to continue spreading the word that the group is available as a resource for employees, and for others throughout the center to be more aware of the experiences of individuals with disabilities. The work he does to help others inspires him every day, he says.
    “We’re here for individuals that don’t want to speak up, we’re here for individuals if they run into issues – they can always contact us,” Brown said. “It’s all about getting up there and trying to make a difference.”

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Media Alert: Low-level helicopter flights to image geology over central Nevada

    Source: US Geological Survey

    The survey will begin in November 2024 and is expected to be completed in February 2025, weather and flight restrictions permitting.

    Flights will include areas in Humboldt, Lander, Eureka, Elko, White Pine, and Nye counties in Nevada.   

    Initial survey flights will be based out of Tonopah, Nevada, and are planned to move northward over the winter. The survey base and flight locations are subject to change with little warning to other parts of the survey area as necessary to minimize ferrying distances and avoid adverse flying conditions. 

    The purpose of the survey is to provide images of subsurface electrical conductivity that expand the fundamental knowledge of geology underpinning the Basin and Range province of Nevada. These flights are a continuation of a project that began in 2022. The survey area hosts brines and evaporation-based mineral systems that might contain lithium resources, and rock formations that may contain other critical minerals as well as base and precious metals.

    The helicopter will fly along pre-planned flight paths relatively low to the ground, about 200 feet (60 meters) above the surface. Flight line spacing will vary depending on location, typically separated by about 3 miles (5 kilometers). 

    A sensor that resembles a large hula-hoop will be towed beneath the helicopter to measure small electromagnetic signals that can be used to map geologic features. The data collected will be made freely available to the public on ScienceBase, typically within one to two years of flight completion.

    None of the instruments carried on the aircraft pose a health risk to people or animals. The aircraft will be flown by experienced pilots who are specially trained and approved for low-level flying. The survey company works with the FAA to ensure flights are safe and in accordance with U.S. law. 

    The surveys will be conducted during daylight hours only. Surveys do not occur over densely populated areas and the helicopter will not directly overfly buildings at low altitude. 

    This airborne electromagnetic survey is funded by the USGS Earth Mapping Resources Initiative as part of a national-scale effort to acquire modern high-resolution airborne geophysical data through airborne geophysical surveys like this one, geochemical reconnaissance surveys, topographic mapping using lidar technology, hyperspectral surveys, and geologic mapping projects. This survey is designed to meet needs related to mineral resource assessments, geologic framework, and mapping studies, as well as supporting geothermal energy and water resources studies.

    The new geophysical data will be processed to develop high-resolution three-dimensional representations of geology to depths over 1,000 feet (300 meters) below the surface. The models and maps produced from the survey are important for improving our understanding of critical mineral resource potential, groundwater aquifer structure and salinity, geothermal resource potential, and natural hazards. These results will support detailed geologic mapping studies being conducted by USGS and the Nevada Bureau of Mines and Geology, by expanding on the mapping of formations where they can be observed in the hills and mountains into the valleys, where these geologic layers become buried under sediments and volcanic deposits.

    The survey fits into a broader effort by the USGS, the Nevada Bureau of Mines and Geology, and many other state geological surveys and other partners, including private companies, academics, and state and federal agencies to modernize our understanding of the Nation’s fundamental geologic framework and knowledge of mineral resources. 

    The USGS is contracting with Xcalibur Multiphysics under Fugro Earthdata, Inc. to collect these data. 

    To learn more about how the USGS is investing the resources from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, visit our website. To learn more about USGS mineral-resource and commodity information, please visit our website and follow us on X

    MIL OSI USA News