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  • MIL-OSI USA: McConnell Announces Over $38 Million in Federal Funding for Kentucky’s Railroads

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kentucky Mitch McConnell

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) announced today that the U.S. Department of Transportation will award $32,183,290 to the R.J. Corman Railroad Group and $6,492,000 to the Louisville and Indiana Railroad Company (LIRC) through the Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) Program.

    R.J. Corman will use today’s award to rehabilitate tracks across multiple rail lines in Central and Western Kentucky, enhancing the efficiency and timeliness of its rail operations. The federal funding awarded to LIRC will support critical repairs to Clagg Bridge, an important rail bridge traversing the Ohio River between Louisville, Kentucky and Clarksville, Indiana that services both rail and waterway traffic.

    Today’s awards are funded through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act as well as annual appropriations from Fiscal Year 2023 and Fiscal Year 2024. Senator McConnell, a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, contacted the U.S. Secretary of Transpiration in support of both railways’ competitive grant applications and advocated for CRISI funding in both the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the annual appropriations process.

    “As a transportation and logistics hub, Kentucky’s railroads have been the linchpin of economic growth for generations of workers and job creators in the Commonwealth. The grants announced today will increase the speed, efficiency, and safety on two of Kentucky’s keystone rail operations, improvements that support good jobs and commerce across our state. I supported the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law precisely for projects like these, and I’ll continue to be a fierce advocate for Kentucky’s railroads, riverports, and waterways in years to come,” said Senator McConnell.

    “We are incredibly grateful to the Federal Railroad Administration for this grant, as well as to Senator McConnell, officials, and communities that supported this initiative. This partnership with R. J. Corman and Logan Aluminum underscores the power of collaboration between the public and private sectors. By leveraging federal infrastructure dollars alongside private investment, we are maximizing economic development opportunities for rail infrastructure in Kentucky. These enhancements will not only strengthen our ability to serve our customers but will also benefit a range of manufacturing companies and industries in central Kentucky. By improving the transportation of key commodities—such as agricultural products, automotive components, and raw materials—this project will bolster the region’s economy, expand market access, and enhance the overall efficiency of our supply chain,” said R. J. Corman Railroad Group President and CEO Ed Quinn.

    “The Louisville & Indiana Railroad is grateful for this award which will ensure that our 100-year-old lift span bridge over the Ohio River will remain a key component for our country’s economy for the next 100 years.  I would like to thank everyone that made this happen with a special thanks to Senator McConnell whose support is greatly appreciated,” said LIRC President John Goldman.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NBC News: Senators take aim at big private equity landlords as rents soar

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren

    October 24, 2024

    As Wall Street financiers snapped up huge swaths of the nation’s rental housing market in recent years, the deals sailed through unchallenged. Now, with the costs of renting an apartment or home out of reach for a growing number of Americans, four Democratic senators say these transactions need more scrutiny. 

    Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., sent a letter to private equity giant KKR on Wednesday, demanding information about its recent $2.1 billion purchase of 5,200 rental apartments across eight states. Among her questions: How does KKR plan to ensure that long-term tenants will be able to stay in their homes and what proportion of profits does KKR expect to generate from hikes in rents and fees at the apartments? 

    “KKR is just the latest private equity firm using the housing crisis to rake in profits while squeezing families,” Warren said in a statement to NBC News. “I’m sounding the alarm because we can’t solve the housing crisis unless we crack down on predatory practices by Wall Street investors.”

    …

    Read the full story here.

    By:  Gretchen Morgenson
    Source: NBC News

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Mass Live: Sen. Elizabeth Warren calls on federal law enforcement to help Springfield with increasing gun violence

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren

    October 24, 2024

    Following 21 months of record gun violence that has left at least 55 people dead in Hampden County, a Springfield police officer blinded in one eye and the seizure of more than 620 firearms, U.S. Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., is calling for federal authorities to help Western Massachusetts.

    On Wednesday Warren sent a letter to Attorney General Merrick Garland and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with a five-point plan to better stop gun trafficking and crack down on illegal sales of guns to help the region.

    The letter also is signed by multiple Massachusetts members of Congress, including U.S. Sen. Ed Markey and U.S. Reps. Seth Moulton, James McGovern, Lori Trahan, William Keating, Stephen Lynch and Jake Auchincloss.

    …

    Read the full story here.

    By:  Jeanette Deforge
    Source: MassLive

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Business Insider: More student-loan borrowers are taking advantage of an updated route to get rid of their debt in bankruptcy court, top Democratic senators say

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren

    October 28, 2024

    An updated process for student-loan borrowers to get rid of their debt in bankruptcy court is working, a group of Democratic senators said.

    On Monday, Sens. Elizabeth Warren and Dick Durbin led Sens. Raphael Warnock and Sheldon Whitehouse in sending a letter — first viewed by Business Insider — to the Justice and Education Departments regarding the status of recent guidance intended to make it easier for borrowers to have success in bankruptcy court.

    Discharging student loans in bankruptcy court has been historically difficult. Borrowers had to prove a standard known as “undue hardship,” in which they cannot maintain a minimal standard of living, their circumstances aren’t likely to improve, and they have made a good-faith effort to repay their debt.

    …

    Read the full story here.

    By:  Ayelet Sheffey
    Source: Business Insider

    Previous Article

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Remarks by the Deputy Prime Minister announcing healthy meals for kids in Manitoba

    Source: Government of Canada News

    We’ve been through a tough time. When COVID first hit, our country suffered the deepest recession since the Great Depression. Our economy shrank by 17 per cent and it’s been tough getting out of that. In recent weeks, we’ve had some good news. What we’ve been seeing is light at the end of the tunnel. We are approaching a soft landing for the Canadian economy after the turbulence of the COVID recession and what followed.

    October 18, 2024 – Winnipeg, Manitoba

    Check against delivery

    I would like to begin by acknowledging that we are in Treaty 1 territory and that the land on which we gather today is the traditional territory of the Anishinaabeg, Cree, Ojibway, Oji-Cree, Dakota, and Dene Peoples, and the homeland of the Red River Métis.

    I want to start by saying a couple of things about the Canadian economy.

    We’ve been through a tough time. When COVID first hit, our country suffered the deepest recession since the Great Depression.  Our economy shrank by 17 per cent and it’s been tough getting out of that.  In recent weeks, we’ve had some good news.  What we’ve been seeing is light at the end of the tunnel.  We are approaching a soft landing for the Canadian economy after the turbulence of the COVID recession and what followed.

    What kind of good news am I talking about?  First of all, inflation in September was at 1.6 per cent.  That is in the lower end of the Bank of Canada’s target range, below the central target of two per cent.  For the past nine months, inflation has been within the Bank of Canada’s target range.  I know that is a relief for people here.

    What that means is that interest rates are coming down, too.  Canada was the first G7 country to lower interest rates for the first time, the first G7 country to lower interest rates for the second time and the first G7 country to lower interest rates for the third time.  That is a relief for a lot of Canadians, a lot of Manitobans as well.

    Wages and employment are going up.  We had strong jobs numbers in September.  The Canadian economy added 47,000 new jobs and unemployment went down a bit.  For the past 20 months, wages have been outpacing inflation.

    All these things are important for Canadians, for families like the parents of the kids here who want to ensure they can take care of their kids, feed their kids, pay their mortgage, pay their rent.  What that economic progress means is that we as a country are able to make investments in our most precious resources, our kids.

    That is why we announced the National School Food Program in the 2024 Budget, which is, in my opinion, one of our government’s key programs.

    The National School Food Program is one of the most important investments we can make in our kids, in our families.  It’s $1 billion over five years.  It’s going to mean 400,000 kids can get fed at school, 400,000 kids who are hungry in their classroom are going to be able to have a snack or some breakfast or some lunch.  That’s going to make such a difference to them, to their teachers.  A family with two kids will save as much as $800 a year on groceries.

    We can only deliver a program like this when we have provincial partners who share our values, who share our commitment to Canada’s kids.  That’s what we have in Manitoba.  That is why I am deeply thrilled to be able to announce today that we have a deal with the great province of Manitoba to invest in school food for Manitoba’s kids.

    The federal government is investing $17.2 million over three years to expand school food programs in Manitoba.  Manitoba is putting money on the table too.  The result is 19,080 more kids in Manitoba are going to get school meals.

    Manitoba is, as usual, in a leadership position with Premier Kinew.  Manitoba is just the second province to conclude a school food deal.  It’s meaningful for every parent who has a kid and knows their kid is going to get a snack, for every kid who’s not going to be hungry.

    This is part of our government’s absolute commitment to investing in families and in children.  It is a companion program to our national system of early learning and childcare, and Manitoba is also playing a leadership role in the country.  You guys are down to $10 a day.  That is fantastic.  That is saving a family in Manitoba $2,610 per child per year, a real affordability measure.  There is also the Canada Child Benefit, where a family can get up to $7,787 per child per year thanks to that benefit.  When you put those programs together, this is a real investment in the most important people in our country, our kids.

    I would like to thank the Government of Manitoba, especially Premier Kinew, who is an excellent partner for us. Our work is not always easy but, because we share the same values, we are able to work together to get things done.

    We need our economy to grow, but that needs to be growth with a purpose. Our purpose needs to be to invest in Canadians.  There is no better investment and no more important investment that we can make than investing in our beautiful, amazing, precious children.  That’s what we’re here to celebrate today.  Thank you.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Planets Beware: NASA Unburies Danger Zones of Star Cluster

    Source: NASA

    Most stars form in collections, called clusters or associations, that include very massive stars. These giant stars send out large amounts of high-energy radiation, which can disrupt relatively fragile disks of dust and gas that are in the process of coalescing to form new planets.
    A team of astronomers used NASA’s Chandra X-ray Observatory, in combination with ultraviolet, optical, and infrared data, to show where some of the most treacherous places in a star cluster may be, where planets’ chances to form are diminished.
    The target of the observations was Cygnus OB2, which is the nearest large cluster of stars to our Sun — at a distance of about 4,600 light-years. The cluster contains hundreds of massive stars as well as thousands of lower-mass stars. The team used long Chandra observations pointing at different regions of Cygnus OB2, and the resulting set of images were then stitched together into one large image.
    The deep Chandra observations mapped out the diffuse X-ray glow in between the stars, and they also provided an inventory of the young stars in the cluster. This inventory was combined with others using optical and infrared data to create the best census of young stars in the cluster.
    In this new composite image, the Chandra data (purple) shows the diffuse X-ray emission and young stars in Cygnus OB2, and infrared data from NASA’s now-retired Spitzer Space Telescope (red, green, blue, and cyan) reveals young stars and the cooler dust and gas throughout the region.
    In these crowded stellar environments, copious amounts of high-energy radiation produced by stars and planets are present. Together, X-rays and intense ultraviolet light can have a devastating impact on planetary disks and systems in the process of forming.
    Planet-forming disks around stars naturally fade away over time. Some of the disk falls onto the star and some is heated up by X-ray and ultraviolet radiation from the star and evaporates in a wind. The latter process, known as “photoevaporation,” usually takes between 5 and 10 million years with average-sized stars before the disk disappears. If massive stars, which produce the most X-ray and ultraviolet radiation, are nearby, this process can be accelerated.
    The researchers using this data found clear evidence that planet-forming disks around stars indeed disappear much faster when they are close to massive stars producing a lot of high-energy radiation. The disks also disappear more quickly in regions where the stars are more closely packed together.
    For regions of Cygnus OB2 with less high-energy radiation and lower numbers of stars, the fraction of young stars with disks is about 40%. For regions with more high-energy radiation and higher numbers of stars, the fraction is about 18%. The strongest effect — meaning the worst place to be for a would-be planetary system — is within about 1.6 light-years of the most massive stars in the cluster.
    A separate study by the same team examined the properties of the diffuse X-ray emission in the cluster. They found that the higher-energy diffuse emission comes from areas where winds of gas blowing away from massive stars have collided with each other. This causes the gas to become hotter and produce X-rays. The less energetic emission probably comes from gas in the cluster colliding with gas surrounding the cluster.
    Two separate papers describing the Chandra data of Cygnus OB2 are available. The paper about the planetary danger zones, led by Mario Giuseppe Guarcello (National Institute for Astrophysics in Palermo, Italy), appeared in the November 2023 issue of the Astrophysical Journal Supplement Series, and is available here. The paper about the diffuse emission, led by Juan Facundo Albacete-Colombo (University of Rio Negro in Argentina) was published in the same issue of Astrophysical Journal Supplement, and is available here.
    NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Alabama, manages the Chandra program. The Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory’s Chandra X-ray Center controls science operations from Cambridge, Massachusetts, and flight operations from Burlington, Massachusetts.
    JPL managed the Spitzer Space Telescope mission for NASA’s Science Mission Directorate in Washington until the mission was retired in January 2020. Science operations were conducted at the Spitzer Science Center at Caltech. Spacecraft operations were based at Lockheed Martin Space in Littleton, Colorado. Data are archived at the Infrared Science Archive operated by IPAC at Caltech. Caltech manages JPL for NASA.
    Read more from NASA’s Chandra X-ray Observatory.
    Learn more about the Chandra X-ray Observatory and its mission here:

    chandra

    https://chandra.si.edu

    This release features a composite image of the Cygnus OB2 star cluster, which resembles a night sky blanketed in orange, purple, and grey clouds.
    The center of the square image is dominated by purple haze. This haze represents diffuse X-ray emissions, and young stars, detected by the Chandra X-ray observatory. Surrounding the purple haze is a mottled, streaky, brick orange cloud. Another cloud resembling a tendril of grey smoke stretches from our lower left to the center of the image. These clouds represent relatively cool dust and gas observed by the Spitzer Space Telescope.
    Although the interwoven clouds cover most of the image, the thousands of stars within the cluster shine through. The lower-mass stars present as tiny specks of light. The massive stars gleam, some with long refraction spikes.

    Megan WatzkeChandra X-ray CenterCambridge, Mass.617-496-7998mwatzke@cfa.harvard.edu
    Lane FigueroaMarshall Space Flight Center, Huntsville, Alabama256-544-0034lane.e.figueroa@nasa.gov

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: MC Duke: a pioneering British rapper more people should know about

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Adam de Paor-Evans, Research Lead at Rhythm Obscura / Lecturer in the School of Art, Design and Architecture, University of Plymouth

    MC Duke (Kashif Adham) was a key figure in the development of hip-hop in Britain in the late 80s. When he died in April, British rap lost a giant. From the East End of London, Duke strengthened the evolution of the genre in the UK by relating directly to US hip-hop and an emerging British rap identity through his lyrics and visual style.

    At the time of MC Duke’s arrival on the rap scene, British hip-hop was transitioning from the electro-based sound by London artists such as DSM, Three Wize Men and Family Quest, to a more sample-based style, much like the sounds of US artists Eric B. and Rakim and Biz Markie.

    In this transition, Duke emerged as the frontrunner in this new generation due to his embrace of hip-hop’s visual tropes as much as his sound.

    His first release, Jus-Dis landed in 1987 on Hard As Hell! Rap’s Next Generation, a compilation released on Music Of Life – a staple label for homegrown British talent. Jus-Dis presents Duke’s battle rap attitude through the diss track – a concept where the song’s narrative attacks another party.

    His lyrics and wordplay on the song title present social commentary on Britain and its legal system: “There ain’t no law, there’s only jus-dis.” Duke also brought the idea of the diss to live audiences throughout the UK by accelerating the dispute with Overlord X, another pioneering British rapper, as part of his stage routine.

    His first proper single release, Miracles, the next year, visually presented MC Duke and his DJ, DJ Leader 1, for the first time to audiences. The record sleeve depicts Duke donning a bright red goose jacket, a black leather cap, Cazal-style shades, gold rope chain and a name belt buckle – all highly sought-after attire in hip-hop fashion.

    These fashion choices linked the US image of rap with an emerging British one. In the US, rap pioneers T La Rock and Kool Moe Dee had previously used similar accessories on album covers to denote a sense of identity. In the UK, graffiti writers and breakdancers particularly were sporting name belt buckles.

    Miracles heavily samples The Jackson Sister’s I Believe In Miracles, which was a mainstay of the rare groove scene that developed in London during the early 80s. With the inclusion of vocal samples from Run-D.M.C.’s Run’s House and Public Enemy’s Bring The Noise, Miracles starts to bring together a transatlantic idea of hip-hop.

    Got To Get Your Own based on Reuben Wilson’s song of the same name and MC Duke’s follow-up single, I’m Riffin (English Rasta) heavily samples Funky Like A Train (link) by Equals, again a core record from many rare groove playlists.

    The introduction to I’m Riffin (English Rasta) is sampled from the powerful speech by American civil rights leader Jesse Jackson from Introduction (Complete). This immediately frames MC Duke’s lyrics with a sense of Black identity and history, as he raps: “Known to speak about men of freedom, Look for books on King and read ‘em”.

    Duke returns the narrative to a sense of the everyman: “We cover and smother another brother, Throw him away just like a used rubber,” twice referring to the system as at the heart of Black-on-Black crime.

    Duke’s “English Rasta” pseudonym is also a comment on Jamaican culture in Britain, in particular the second generation who grew up through an evolving Black British identity.

    M.C. Duke and DJ Leader 1’s debut album Organised Rhyme challenges the British class system, the aristocracy, colonialism and imperialism. Duke claims their associated visual tropes and brings them into a rap frame fusing tweed suits, hunting boots, Bentley cars and stately homes with the African medallions and chunky gold jewellery of hip-hop.

    In 1990, Duke countered the conventions of the British aristocracy as a producer and performer on the album The Royal Family, a collective of artists from the Music Of Life camp, including the likes of Lady Tame and Doc Savage. This album resonates with US label-related collectives such as Marley Marl’s Juice Crew and The 45 King’s Flavor Unit. Again, this enforces the transatlantic approach to hip-hop that Duke maintained.

    Duke’s work ensured British fans felt homegrown rap was becoming closer to US artists like Eric B. & Rakim and Public Enemy. Additionally, his music laid the foundation for future solo British rappers as diverse as Ty, Dizzee Rascal and Stormzy.

    As well as being a forerunner in British hip-hop, Duke worked across dance genres and influenced many jungle, drum ‘n’ bass and grime emcees. As Jumpin Jack Frost (the DJ behind the seminal jungle track Burial, which he released under the alias Leviticus) attested: “Duke was a true trailblazer who was one of the first UK MCs with a major record deal … His legacy will be remembered as someone who helped to shape UK MCs from jungle to grime we all owe MC Duke a lot.”

    MC Duke bridged the gap between US hip-hop history and set a new British trajectory for rap. His work should serve as a critical signpost for British rap audiences.

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

    – ref. MC Duke: a pioneering British rapper more people should know about – https://theconversation.com/mc-duke-a-pioneering-british-rapper-more-people-should-know-about-229966

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Rising vet fees leave pet owners facing tough choices – and vets often bear the brunt

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Rachel Williams, Reader in Human Resource Management, Cardiff University

    shutterstock SAI SU PAW KA/Shutterstock

    If you’re a pet owner, you may have noticed increases in your vet bills in recent years. The average cost of pet booster injections increased by 48% in the UK between 2020 and early 2024, while pet insurance prices rose by 21% in the year to March. Many families are struggling to afford care for their pets.

    But this situation isn’t just about rising prices – it’s about how these changes are affecting the people at the heart of veterinary care. For the past three years, I’ve been studying the experiences of early-career vets and what I’ve found is unsettling.

    The vets I spoke to described an emotional and ethical struggle that goes far beyond routine pet care. They’re increasingly having to balance the cost of treatment with the welfare of animals – sometimes being forced to euthanise otherwise healthy pets because the owners can’t afford treatment.

    Concerns about veterinary fees are also receiving national attention. The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) is conducting an investigation into the sector, citing a lack of transparency in pricing and the dominance of corporate ownership. For example, 60% of UK vet practices are owned by just six companies, including VetPartners, MediVet and IVC.

    Strikes at branches of Valley Vets in south Wales – the first in the UK veterinary sector – have also drawn attention to the issue of pay and the rising cost of treatment. Staff at the practice, owned by York-based VetPartners, are demanding a fair wage and pushing back against fee hikes that are pricing owners out of care.

    For vets, the stakes are high. Many enter the profession out of a love for animals, but increasing costs force them into difficult conversations with owners who can’t afford the necessary treatment.

    One early-career vet I interviewed described treating a four-month-old puppy with a broken leg. The owners couldn’t pay for surgery and had to make the heartbreaking decision to put the dog down. This not only caused distress to the family but also to the veterinary team performing the procedure.

    Prevention

    Veterinary practices are increasingly promoting preventative care to help avoid costly treatment down the road. But some pet owners view this merely as an attempt to maximise profit.

    The Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS), which regulates the sector, has expressed concern about a rise in abusive behaviour towards vets. The RCVS is encouraging owners to raise fee issues with practice owners rather than individual vets. Many practices have started removing abusive clients from their client lists, though some vets I spoke to were unhappy that abusive clients were allowed to return.

    Vet students are taught how to discuss costs with clients. For many new vets, however, these conversations are nerve-wracking, particularly when charges are high. Several vets described how they “forgot” to charge for items or charged reduced amounts when they believed the fees were too high. In some cases, the vets believed that managers chose not to notice, whereas others were criticised.

    But as vets gained experience, they also began to charge more accurately, partly due to valuing their training and expertise. They also realised that if they reduced a bill, clients were more likely to complain if the next vet charged correctly.

    60% of UK vet practices are owned by just six companies.
    FamVeld/Shutterstock

    I found evidence that over time some vets became less emotionally attached to their patients, particularly when they had no long-term relationship with the owner. They always wanted to reduce suffering and provide the best care. At the same time, though, they were exasperated at owners who acquired pets without investigating future costs or who failed to set money aside for emergencies.

    Some also expressed frustration at the owners of their practices imposing large fee increases. They described being ignored when warning managers that further fee increases would lead to a reduction in clients, and vindicated when clients left and associated income reduced.

    The CMA review could potentially reshape the veterinary sector, introducing greater price transparency and competition. The RCVS has welcomed the investigation, seeing it as an opportunity for much needed legislative reform.

    It is also seeking to extend its regulatory oversight to entire veterinary practices, not just individual vets and nurses. But it has warned the CMA to be cautious of breaking up businesses as this may lead to the closure of practices and leave pet owners without access to veterinary care.

    Crossroads

    The veterinary profession is at a crossroads. Rising costs, recruitment and retention challenges, as well as increasing emotional burnout are driving many vets to leave the profession. Meanwhile, pet owners are left struggling with tough decisions about how much care they can afford for their beloved animals.

    There are no easy answers. Teaching veterinary students how to offer treatment options that fit different budgets could help reduce the emotional burden on both vets and owners. Addressing vet retention through manageable working hours, supportive workplaces and fair salaries may also reduce pressures.

    Transparent pricing and educating owners about the real costs of pet care may help to enable more informed decisions. And giving vets a say in business and pricing decisions could help practices balance financial sustainability with compassionate animal care.

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

    – ref. Rising vet fees leave pet owners facing tough choices – and vets often bear the brunt – https://theconversation.com/rising-vet-fees-leave-pet-owners-facing-tough-choices-and-vets-often-bear-the-brunt-241647

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Alzheimer’s drug approved in the UK, but it won’t be available on the NHS – here’s why

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Rahul Sidhu, PhD Candidate, Neuroscience, University of Sheffield

    Donanemab is delivered intravenously to slow the progression of Alzheimer’s disease. Studio Romantic/ Shutterstock

    The UK’s drugs regulator – the MHRA – has approved the Alzheimer’s drug donanemab, but it won’t be available on the NHS.

    The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (Nice), which determines what treatments are available on the NHS, decided not to recommend donanemab for NHS use. This is because of its cost, potential side-effects and what some consider insufficient benefits.

    While Nice’s decision is disappointing for a lot of people (about 70,000 people people in England would have qualified to receive the drug), it’s important to know why the decision was made.

    Slowing decline

    A key characteristic of Alzheimer’s disease is the presence of amyloid plaques. These are sticky proteins that clump together and destroy brain cells (neurons), resulting in Alzheimer’s.

    Donanemab is a monoclonal antibody – a lab-made protein that targets and binds to amyloid to help eliminate it. This treatment is administered by an intravenous infusion, so the drug is delivered directly into the bloodstream. Each session lasts about 30 minutes and is needed every four weeks.

    In a clinical trial, donanemab was shown to be reasonably successful. The trial compared participants with early Alzheimer’s disease taking donanemab against those taking a placebo.

    Donanemab slowed the decline in memory and thinking by as much as 35% in people in the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease. This is the equivalent of reducing the disease’s progression by four to seven months. Participants taking donanemab experienced a 40% slower decline in their ability to perform daily tasks, including managing finances, driving and enjoying hobbies.

    Donanemab helps eliminate amyloid from the brain.
    Signal Scientific Visuals/ Shutterstock

    While these results are promising, it’s important to note that the clinical trial had some limitations.

    The trial lasted only 18 months, so it remains unclear how donanemab’s effects will play out long-term for those using it. Future studies will be needed to explore the long-term effects.

    Although the trial had a large sample size of 1,736 participants with early Alzheimer’s disease, 90% of the participants were white. More diversity in clinical trials is needed to ensure that donanemab is effective for people of all races and ethnic backgrounds. Unfortunately, this lack of diversity is a common issue in medical research.

    But the major drawback with donanemab was its side-effects. About 80% of the side-effects participants experienced were either mild or participants showed no symptoms at all and side-effects were only picked up in further tests.

    However, 15% of participants had a serious side-effect. This included brain swelling or small brain bleeds known as amyloid-related imaging abnormalities. This may initially cause mild symptoms such as headaches, confusion or dizziness. But without constant monitoring, these conditions can become detrimental to health.

    There were three deaths believed to be linked to this brain swelling among the 853 participants who were administered the drug.

    Another concern in using the drug relates to the existing difficulties with diagnosis. To even qualify for the treatment, patients must be in the very early stages of Alzheimer’s disease – and already have confirmed high amyloid levels through a PET scan or lumbar puncture.

    In the UK, only 2% of dementia patients receive these gold-standard diagnoses. More than one-third of people living with dementia don’t receive a diagnosis at all.

    Improved and more accessible diagnostic methods would ensure more patients are eligible to receive the drug at the optimal time.

    But the key reason donanemab isn’t available through the NHS is its cost. The treatment is estimated to cost around £25,000 a year per patient, based on the US cost. This does not include the expense of brain scans to monitor its effects.

    Additionally, it requires monthly infusions at the hospital and careful monitoring for side-effects, which may seem excessive considering the treatment’s modest benefits.

    The future for Alzheimer’s treatments

    Nice’s decision on donanemab closely mirrors the decision they made about lecanemab in August 2024. This was the first ever Alzheimer’s slowing drug approved by the MHRA, and, like donanemab, is only available via private healthcare. The reasons both drugs were rejected by the Nice and the NHS are similar – with costs and side-effects being the main concerns.

    While people with dementia and their families may feel let down by this decision, the fact that these new therapies can slow the disease, even slightly, offers hope.

    Nice will be reassessing donanemab in 2025. There are also over 100 drugs currently in clinical trials for treating Alzheimer’s. Hopefully, one of these will prove to be as effective, if not more effective, as donanemab but with fewer side-effects and at a lower cost.

    Still, it’s a remarkable step that there are two drugs licensed in the UK for treating Alzheimer’s. Although there’s still a way to go before an NHS treatment is readily available.

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

    – ref. Alzheimer’s drug approved in the UK, but it won’t be available on the NHS – here’s why – https://theconversation.com/alzheimers-drug-approved-in-the-uk-but-it-wont-be-available-on-the-nhs-heres-why-242127

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Scabies outbreak in UK universities – what you need to know

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Michael Head, Senior Research Fellow in Global Health, University of Southampton

    Sarcoptes scabiei Arshindi/Shutterstock

    Scabies is an itchy skin infection that sees outbreaks across the world.

    It is caused by mites, similar to but much smaller than head lice. These mites burrow under the skin, lay eggs and reproduce, causing an immune response which generates the unpleasant itching associated with the disease.

    Outbreaks often occur in institutional settings, such as residential care homes for the elderly. In October 2024, outbreaks around UK university settings were reported in the media.

    The incubation period for scabies is typically four to six weeks. This is the time between being infected – a mite getting onto and then under the skin – and a patient showing symptoms such as the classic unpleasant itch.

    So, the cases reported in October 2024 would have been infected mid to late September, around the time of student arrival at their universities around the country.

    Given this long incubation period, it can be difficult to prevent and control outbreaks. The condition can also be difficult to diagnose because the clinical presentation on the skin can be tricky to spot – for example, between the fingers.

    Transmission is typically by prolonged skin-to-skin contact and sharing contiminated bedding, towels, clothes and soft furnishings where the mites can wait and crawl onto the next person who uses them. Guidance recommends washing bedding, clothes and towels at high temperatures to kill the mites, or if that is not possible then to seal the items inside plastic bags for three to four days.

    Stigma and under-reporting

    Data from The Royal College of General Practitioners’ report on communicable and respiratory disease in England for October 2024 indicates that the reported case numbers of scabies are higher than the seasonal average.

    These official figures are also likely to be conservative. Like many skin infections, scabies is a stigmatised disease and so under-reporting or late reporting are common.

    There is a perception that scabies is a disease “of the unwashed”. This is likely to be incorrect, with the burrowing of the scabies mites meaning they simply cannot be washed away by bathing. Also, scabies can appear in areas covered by clothes, including in the groin or on the buttocks – another reason for stigma and under-reporting. This means the data we have is likely to be much lower than the true number of cases.

    Treatment and prevention

    Treatment is usually a skin lotion called permethrin or sometimes another cream called malathion. In order to be effective, these creams have to be rubbed all over the body, not just at the site of infection.

    Ivermectin, taken orally, is also extremely effective at curing scabies and can be prescribed to control outbreaks. Public information campaigns can help with alerting the general public and describing the possible symptoms.

    The World Health Organization defines a range of diseases as Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs). As the name indicates, the majority of these are mostly found in tropical countries. These include skin infections such as leprosy and mosquito-transmitted diseases such as dengue. However, scabies is unique among NTDs in being common in more temperate environments such as the UK. The mites thrive in almost all climates, and an infection does not go away unless correctly diagnosed and treated.

    In September 2023, there were scabies outbreaks and treatment shortages in the UK. It is uncertain whether there are shortages in the October 2024 outbreak. Regardless, anyone with a persistent itch or known contact with a scabies case should report this to a healthcare worker for follow up.

    While scabies does not kill many people, it is a thoroughly unpleasant infection that causes significant impact on quality of life. Awareness and early reporting can help to bring outbreaks to a rapid conclusion.

    Michael Head has previously received funding from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Research England and the UK Department for International Development, and currently receives funding from the UK Medical Research Foundation.

    – ref. Scabies outbreak in UK universities – what you need to know – https://theconversation.com/scabies-outbreak-in-uk-universities-what-you-need-to-know-242237

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: Navy Announces Latest Shore Energy Achievements During Energy Action Month

    Source: United States Navy

    National Clean Energy Action Month provides a valuable opportunity for the DON to spotlight the importance of energy as a strategic asset and catalyst for mission success. Amongst this year’s successes are advancements in enhanced energy security and shore and operational energy issues, Enhanced Use Leases (EULs) and Marine Energy Development (MED), the Energy & Water Analysis Tool (EWAT), the development of the Chief Sustainability Officer (CSO) Serial titled “Shore Energy Goals,” and youth education and outreach.

    Underlying all of these efforts is a DON strategy focused on three Cs – Climate, Communities, and Critical Infrastructure that emphasize execution of core strategies via the 3 Pillars of Energy Security – Reliability, Resiliency, and Efficiency.

    “Energy security is mission success,” said Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Energy, Installations and Environment Meredith Berger. “As we celebrate Energy Action Month, we reflect on the ambitious energy goals we’ve set and the great progress we’ve made throughout the year that ensure we continue to build a climate-ready force. Our Sailors and Marines rely on and respond to energy issues in their daily operations, and the DON’s persistent focus on energy security coupled with our strategic partnerships with the community enable mission success for our Naval force.”

    Increased energy security was at the forefront in October with the release of an industry request for information (RFI) to explore concepts for the development of nuclear power facilities to support increased energy security at seven Navy and Marine Corps installations in the United States. The responses are expected to enable the Department to further consider alternative carbon-free shore energy opportunities and build upon the DON’s commitment to enhance energy security as a responsible community partner.

    New focus has also been given to the intersection of shore and operational energy issues, to bridge the gap between installations and the warfighters they serve. Amongst the installation efforts being explored are pier-power assessments at naval bases to ensure ships and submarines receive resilient and quality power. Other efforts focused on the warfighter include a renewed opportunity for a Masters of Operational Energy degree at the Naval Postgraduate School that will equip graduates with the essential skills required to enhance their effectives in the modern battlespace whether on a ship, submarine, aircraft, or on land.

    Energy partnerships with States and industry benefit both the Navy and the communities we live in. Enhanced Use Leases (EULs) are one way that the DON works with our neighbors to ensure energy resilience. The Navy recently entered into two EULs that, upon completion, will provide more than 250-megawatts of renewable energy to the local utility, Hawaiian Electric Company (HECO), and full-base resilience for the DON in the event of a grid outage. As part of the EULs, the Kūpono Solar site provides clean, renewable energy and battery storage to approximately 10,000 homes on O‘ahu while offsetting 50,000 tons of CO2 emissions annually. The Pu`uloa Energy site, currently in development, will provide additional renewable energy generation and battery storage, improving island-wide power reliability and contributing to the State of Hawai’i’s goal of achieving 100% renewable energy by 2045.

    In pursuit of innovative renewable energy technologies, the DON’s Marine Energy Development (MED) program explores ways to ensure marine energy – a consistent, clean, and renewable power source – remains a reliable and sustainable energy source for naval facilities and remote applications. As part of the program, the DON’s Wave Energy Test Site (WETS), situated at Marine Corps Base Hawaii on O’ahu, Hawai’i, is the United States’ first and only grid-connected wave energy test site playing a vital role in advancing cutting edge wave energy technology by providing a dynamic real-world environment and supporting wave energy converter

    (WEC) developers. Another Department of Energy project, Ocean Energy, is also scheduled to be grid-connected at WETS within the year.

    In April 2024, the DON launched the Energy & Water Analysis Tool (EWAT) online dashboard that provides timely, accurate installation energy operational data, for agile and responsive energy resilience investments and operational decisions. The next phase of EWAT will include an increased cadence of data reporting, the inclusion of project pipeline impacts on future usage, and the addition of enhancements to track progress against energy and water conservation, carbon-pollution free electricity, and renewable energy goals. Together, they will improve resilience and readiness by ensuring that the Navy and Marine Corps are maximizing the resources they rely on for quality of life, training, logistics, and combat support: energy and water.

    Aligned with the Department of Navy’s Climate Action 2030 strategy and the objectives of Executive Order 14057, the Navy continues its commitment to drive energy innovation and prioritize environmental responsibility. As part of this, the DON released the fifth CSO Serial titled “Shore Energy Goals”, which builds on the DON’s commitment to enhance energy security and targets that commitment with sustainability practices and concrete actions that fortify the reliable, resilient, renewable energy Navy installations and communities need.

    A renewed focus on youth education was brought to the forefront when Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Energy, Installations, and Environment Meredith Berger spoke with Sea Cadets and Naval Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps cadets at a climate and energy technology demonstration in September where she discussed the importance of climate and energy. Berger also joined DON researchers and engineers at the U.S. Armed Forces Recruiting Station in Times Square during Climate Week NYC where they showcased technologies, such as hydrogen-powered fuel cells, small unit power systems, water-conserving firefighting nozzles, atmospheric water generation, and green concrete, to educate students on the DON’s commitment to climate action and inspire them to explore careers in climate and energy focused roles.

    “Having these young Sea Cadets and NJROTC cadets – the future of our nation – learn about our climate and energy technologies was a fantastic way to kick off Climate Week in NYC,” said Berger. “They clearly understand how climate change is impacting our world and how climate readiness is mission readiness for the Navy.”

    The Office of the Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Energy, Installations and Environment serves the Department of the Navy and the nation by enhancing combat capabilities for the warfighter through a focus on communities, critical infrastructure, and climate action. Specifically, the portfolio focuses on renewable, reliable, resilient energy sources, sustainability and construction, maintenance and sustainment of infrastructure, protecting the safety and occupational health of military and civilian personnel; environmental protection in support of mission readiness, planning and restoration ashore and afloat; and conservation of natural and cultural resources.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Secretary of the Commonwealth Holds First Virtual General Election Update

    Source: US State of Pennsylvania

    October 28, 2024 – Harrisburg, PA

    Secretary of the Commonwealth Holds First Virtual General Election Update

    Secretary of the Commonwealth Al Schmidt today held the first of a series of daily media briefings leading up to the Nov. 5 general election.
    Secretary Schmidt reminded voters of the deadline tomorrow, Oct. 29, to apply for a mail ballot.

    “I urge anyone considering voting by mail ballot to apply immediately online at vote.pa.gov,” Schmidt said. “At this point, time is of the essence, and the sooner you apply, the sooner your mail ballot will arrive.”

    For voters applying in person at their county elections office, the deadline is also tomorrow. Schmidt noted that you can apply, wait while your application is processed, receive your ballot, fill it out, and return it all in one visit.

    The deadline to return your mail ballot is 8 p.m. Election Day. County elections offices must receive ballots by then. Mail ballots returned after that time, even if postmarked by 8 p.m. Nov. 5, will not count.

    Schmidt also reminded mail ballot voters to sign and put the current date on the outer return envelope so that your ballot can be counted.

    Speakers Include:
    Secretary of the Commonwealth Al Schmidt

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pennsylvania Office of Outdoor Recreation Rolls Out ‘Elevate’ Initiative to Engage Outdoor Businesses

    Source: US State of Pennsylvania

    October 28, 2024 – Easton, PA

    Pennsylvania Office of Outdoor Recreation Rolls Out ‘Elevate’ Initiative to Engage Outdoor Businesses

    Pennsylvania Director of Outdoor Recreation Nathan Reigner visited Easton Outdoor Company to announce the launch of Elevate, a new business engagement initiative designed to strengthen Pennsylvania’s outdoor recreation industry by engaging directly with the businesses that drive it.

    The Elevate initiative will connect with outdoor recreation businesses across the Commonwealth to identify barriers to growth, develop workforce solutions, and highlight Pennsylvania as a premier destination for outdoor recreation and a place where related businesses can thrive. Pennsylvania businesses involved in or benefiting from outdoor recreation are invited to complete a brief questionnaire.

    This initiative advances Governor Josh Shapiro’s commitment to strengthening Pennsylvania’s outdoor industry, delivering on his promise to make Pennsylvania a national leader in outdoor recreation, entrepreneurial opportunity, and job creation.

    “Outdoor recreation is already a major economic driver in Pennsylvania and my Administration is working to grow the industry even further by connecting the dots between businesses in the Commonwealth’s outdoor recreation economy so they can help each other grow and succeed,” said Governor Shapiro. “This initiative is an example of how our commitment to outdoor recreation can lift up communities, create good jobs, and fuel economic growth across Pennsylvania. Outdoor recreation isn’t just about business or economics – it’s about our quality of life and enjoying the incredible natural beauty we’re lucky to have here in Pennsylvania.”

    Speakers Include:
    Nathan Reigner, Director of Outdoor Recreation
    Neil Fowler, Executive Director, Center for Strategic Partnerships, DCED
    Adam Fairchild, Easton Outdoor Company, Owner
    Karen Prieto, Twin Rivers Tubing, Owner
    Bill Strickland, Editorial Director, Hearst Publications
    Lamont McClure, Northampton County Executive
    Ken Brown, Vice Mayor, Easton City Council
    Frank Pintabone, Easton City Council

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Twillingate — Twillingate RCMP investigates break, enter and theft at Friday’s Bay lookout trail in Fairbank

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Twillingate RCMP is investigating a break, enter and theft that occurred sometime overnight on October 24, 2024, at Friday’s Bay lookout trail in Fairbank.

    Shortly after 12:00 p.m. on October 25, 2024, police received a report that a shed, located in the parking lot near the entrance to the trail, had been broken into. The following is a list of tools that were stolen:

    • DeWalt DCS391B 165mm circular saw
    • DeWalt DCD771C2 cordless drill x 2
    • Square measuring tape
    • Hammers x 3
    • Box of #8 x 3″ screws

    The investigation is continuing.

    Anyone having information about this crime, the person(s) responsible, or the location of the stolen property is asked to call Twillingate RCMP at 709-884-2811. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers: #SayItHere 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), visit www.nlcrimestoppers.com or use the P3Tips app.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Gander — Gander RCMP investigates theft from Dominion in Gander, seeks public’s assistance (UPDATED)

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Update #2: Thanks to the assistance of the public, the woman was identified.

    Update: Gander RCMP thanks the public for the information received on the identity of the woman. Efforts are underway to confirm the information received.

    On August 29, Gander RCMP received a report of a theft from Dominion in Gander. Surveillance video showed a woman stealing a cart full of grocery items with a suspected value of more than $900.00.

    Local efforts by Gander RCMP to identify the suspect have been exhausted. A picture of the woman is attached and the investigation is continuing.

    Anyone with any information about the identity of the woman pictured is asked to call Gander RCMP at 709-256-6841. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), visit www.nlcrimestoppers.com or use the P3Tips app. #SayItHere

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Whitehorse — Police respond to a fatal motor vehicle collision

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    On October 26 at approximately 2:00 a.m., Whitehorse RCMP responded to a motor vehicle collision involving a pickup truck and tractor trailer on the Alaska Highway near the Porter Creek subdivision.

    Yukon Emergency Medical Services and the Whitehorse Fire Department assisted at the scene and a 37-year-old male from Whitehorse was found deceased.

    The section of the Alaska Highway from Birch Street to Wann Road was closed to traffic and a detour was established to allow traffic to bypass the area while an M Division RCMP Collision Analyst attended to collect evidence. The closed section of highway was re-opened to the public on October 26 at approximately 5:00 pm.

    Whitehorse RCMP and the Yukon Coroner’s Service continue to investigate.

    Our condolences go out to the friends and family of the deceased and all affected persons.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Lambent Executives to Co-Present with NSU Florida on Occupancy Analytics and Operational Excellence

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BOSTON, Oct. 28, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Executives from occupancy analytics software company Lambent are partnering with NSU Florida to highlight how businesses and higher education institutions are using occupancy analytics to maximize operational excellence.

    Lambent CEO Richard Scannell and Campus Technology Advisor/Sales Director Sue Wohlford Bork will be joined by Daniel Alfonso, Vice President of Facilities Management and Safety at NSU Florida at two different events in the next two weeks—SRAPPA (Southeast Region Association of Physical Plant Administrators) and Tradeline’s Space Strategies 2024.  

    The sessions will examine the role of occupancy analytics in revolutionizing operational excellence across real estate and facilities management, and the resulting cost reductions, adaptability improvements, and energy efficiencies. The presenters will share NSU Florida’s own experience integrating occupancy data with its Building Automation Systems (BAS) and the opportunities that created for data-driven space discussions and the improved management of hybrid workplaces. They will also discuss the transformational potential of predictive occupancy analytics in developing operational strategies, anticipating space usage trends and aligning resources to quickly adapt to those shifts.

    The session will be presented at two separate conferences:
    SRAPPA (Southeast Region Association of Physical Plant Administrators)

    • Chattanooga, TN
    • Wed. Oct. 30th  @ 2:25 PM

    Speakers:

    Sue Bork
    Campus Technology Advisor to Higher Education Institutions
    Lambent    		 Daniel Alfonso
    Vice President of Facilities Management and Safety
    NSU Florida
       

    Tradeline Space Strategies 2024

    • Scottsdale, AZ
    • Mon. Nov. 11th @ 2:20 PM and Tue.  Nov. 12th @ 1:45 PM

    Speakers: 

    Richard Scannell
    CEO
    Lambent    		 Daniel Alfonso
    Vice President of Facilities Management and Safety
    NSU Florida
       

    About Lambent
    Lambent is an occupancy analytics software company helping corporate and higher ed campuses optimize space utilization, facilities operations and real estate investments. Its SaaS platform, Lambent Spaces, leverages existing data sources such as Wi-Fi and sensors to provide anonymous and predictive analytics to inform decisions related to utilization, workplace experiences, planning, scheduling, and maintenance. The software delivers actionable intelligence so facilities professionals and space planners can make better use of the spaces they have. For more information, visit https://lambentspaces.com/.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Fannie Mae Announces Changes to Appraisal Alternatives Requirements

    Source: Fannie Mae

    WASHINGTON, DC – Fannie Mae (FNMA/OTCQB) today announced changes to the eligibility requirements for Value Acceptance (previously known as appraisal waivers) and Value Acceptance + Property Data (also known as inspection-based appraisal waivers), two key components of the company’s valuation modernization options. The changes are part of Fannie Mae’s ongoing efforts to offer a balance of traditional appraisals and appraisal alternatives to confirm a property’s value in order to meet the needs of the market.  

    Beginning in Q1 2025, for purchase loans for primary residences and second homes, the eligible loan-to-value (LTV) ratios for Value Acceptance will increase from 80% to 90% and Value Acceptance + Property Data will increase from 80% to the program limits. Both options are designed to match the risk of the collateral and the loan transaction.

    “Fannie Mae is on a journey of continuous improvement to make the home valuation process more effective, efficient, and impartial for lenders, appraisers, and secondary mortgage market participants while maintaining Fannie Mae’s safety and soundness,” said Jake Williamson, Senior Vice President of Single-Family Collateral & Quality Risk Management, Fannie Mae. “Responsibly increasing the eligibility for valuation options that leverage data- and technology-driven approaches can also help reduce costs for borrowers.”

    Since early 2020, Fannie Mae estimates the use of appraisal alternatives such as Value Acceptance and Value Acceptance + Property Data on loans Fannie Mae has acquired saved mortgage borrowers more than $2.5 billion.

    Value Acceptance leverages a robust data and modeling framework to confirm the validity of a property’s value and sale price. Alternatively, Value Acceptance + Property Data utilizes trained and vetted third-party property data collectors, such as appraisers, real estate agents, and insurance inspectors, who conduct interior and exterior data collection on the subject property. Lenders are notified of transactions that are eligible for Value Acceptance or Value Acceptance + Property Data via Fannie Mae’s Desktop Underwriter®.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI USA: October 28th, 2024 Heinrich, Luján, Leger Fernández Welcome Over $1 Million to Break Down Barriers to Home Ownership for New Mexicans Living With HIV/AIDS

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Mexico Martin Heinrich

    SANTA FE, N.M. — U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), and U.S. Representative Teresa Leger Fernández (D-N.M.) welcomed $1,345,637 for the Santa Fe Housing Trust to provide more pathways to first-time home ownership to 2,050 New Mexicans living with HIV/AIDS. 

    This grant is funded through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Housing Opportunities for Persons With AIDS (HOPWA) Program. The HOPWA program is the only federal program dedicated to the housing needs of people living with HIV/AIDS and their families.

    During the domestic HIV/AIDS crisis, individuals surviving with HIV/AIDS faced barriers to employment and incurred expensive medical costs. This trend continues and disproportionately impact low-income individuals who are struggling to afford stable housing even before diagnosis and treatment. The financial and health vulnerabilities associated with HIV/AIDS often result in housing instability and homelessness. Research shows individuals living with HIV/AIDS who have a stable place to live have more positive health outcomes and spend less time in hospitals or emergency rooms.

    “We should be making it easier for all New Mexicans to become homeowners. Full stop,”said Heinrich. “This funding will break down barriers for individuals living with HIV/AIDS to become first-time home buyers, ensuring more folks have a safe and secure place to call home. I’ll keep fighting to increase our housing stock, bring down the cost of housing, and ensure all people in our state have a shot at achieving the dream of home ownership.”

    “No New Mexican should ever worry about whether they will have a safe place to sleep at night,” said Luján. “I’m proud to welcome more than $1.3 million in federal funding that will help allow New Mexicans living with HIV/AIDS to secure permanent, stable housing so they can focus on their health. I will continue to fight to expand housing options for all New Mexicans.”

    “Home is more than a roof you live under, it provides safety and stability,” said Leger Fernández. “As we work to tackle the home affordability crisis across the country, we must use all tools available to help. We know one of the biggest hurdles homebuyers face is saving up for a downpayment. This $1.3 million for the Santa Fe Housing Trust will provide funding for important services like down payment reduction assistance for first-time home buyers living with HIV/AIDS. I’ll continue to fight for funding that helps our communities through legislation like my Home of Your Own Act which would also help first time homebuyers with down payment assistance.”

    Background

    Heinrich, Luján, and Leger Fernández are tireless advocates for lowering housing costs, increasing housing supply, and expanding housing affordability and access for families in New Mexico.

    Through Heinrich’s role as a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, particularly through his seat as Chairman of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies, Heinrich has worked to deliver millions of dollars to New Mexico for renters and home buyers.

    Most recently, Heinrich secured Committee support for the following investments in Fiscal Year 2025 (FY25) Appropriations:

    In Heinrich’s Fiscal Year 2024 Agriculture Appropriations Bill, he secured $1.6 billion for rental assistance, an increase of $120 million over Fiscal Year 2023. Heinrich’s 2024 Appropriations Bill also provided for a pilot program that decoupled rental assistance from Multifamily Direct Loans, preventing thousands of low-income families from losing rental assistance.

    Additionally, Heinrich secured $1,100,000 through the Fiscal Year 2024 Appropriations process for Santa Fe Habitat for Humanity to develop land into a mixed-income development focused on building 25 to 30 housing units for working families. In total, Heinrich has secured $14,500,000 in Congressionally Directed Spending (CDS) for northern New Mexico to address the housing shortage.

    In May, Heinrich, Luján, Leger Fernández, and the N.M. Congressional Delegation welcomed $11.8 million from the U.S. Department of Housing to support public housing authorities build, renovate, and modernize public housing across New Mexico.

    In February, Heinrich, Luján, Leger Fernández, and the N.M. Congressional Delegation welcomed more than $16 million in federal funding from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) Continuum of Care program to support New Mexico projects that provide housing assistance and supportive services to people experiencing homelessness.

    Luján has also been a champion of expanding access to affordable housing for all New Mexicans. Earlier this year, Luján partnered with Heinrich to push for more funding for Tribal housing programs.

    Through Luján’s work on the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions, Luján has also fought to secure critical support for individuals living with HIV/AIDS.

    Luján introduced the bipartisan Ryan White PrEP Availability Act, bipartisan legislation to increase flexibility for Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program clinics, which provide care and treatment for individuals living with HIV/AIDS.

    In the Fiscal Year 2023 (FY23) Appropriations package, Luján secured $300,000 to advance the goals of his Oral Health Literacy Act and support the Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program.

    Heinrich and Luján have also introduced a number of bills to tackle New Mexico’s housing crisis.

    Last month, Heinrich introduced the New Homes Tax Credit Act, legislation that would provide tax credits to incentivize new investments and additional resources for single-family home construction and renovations for working families. The bill would address the lack of housing inventory for individuals and families whose incomes are up to 120 percent of the area median income (AMI), particularly including in areas where middle-income families have historically been priced out. In Albuquerque, Santa Fe, and Las Cruces, New Mexico, for example, this added housing inventory would benefit families with annual incomes of up to $103,680, $109,800, and $78,960, respectively.

    At a recent roundtable conversation with local educators in Albuquerque, Heinrich announced his Educator Down Payment Assistance Act, legislation designed to help more educators and school staff in New Mexico purchase a home and keep teachers in the communities where they teach.  

    In March, Heinrich co-led the First-Time Homebuyer Tax Credit Act, legislation to support homeownership among lower- and middle-income Americans by establishing a refundable tax credit worth up to 10 percent of a home’s purchase price – up to a maximum of $15,000 – for first-time homebuyers. 

    Heinrich also cosponsored the Housing for All Act, comprehensive legislation to expand access to affordable housing in New Mexico and supporting those experiencing homelessness. The bill would invest in proven solutions and provide a historic level of federal funding for strategic, existing programs to keep people housed and reduce homelessness, as well as for innovative, locally developed solutions to help vulnerable populations experiencing homelessness.

    Last year, Heinrich introduced the Affordable Housing Credit Improvement Act, which would help build over 14,000 new affordable homes in New Mexico over the next decade, generating over $2.5 billion in wages and business income. The legislation would support the financing of more affordable housing by expanding and strengthening the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit, our country’s most successful affordable housing program.    

    Heinrich also introduced the Delivering Essential Protection, Opportunity, and Security for Tenants (DEPOSIT) Act, which would help an estimated 12,000 New Mexican families access rental housing through the Housing Choice Voucher Program to pay security deposits and get into a rental home. Luján is also a cosponsor of this bill.

    In January, as Chairman of the U.S. Joint Economic Committee (JEC), Heinrich released a report highlighting policy approaches to increasing housing supply in America. Heinrich also chaired a JEC hearing on the report. His full opening statement can be found here.

    Luján introduced the bipartisan Homes for Every Local Protector, Educator, and Responder Act of 2023 or the HELPER Act of 2023, legislation that would establish a new home loan program under the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) to make homeownership more accessible to teachers and first responders.

    Luján also introduced the bipartisan Reforming Disaster Recovery Act, legislation that would establish a community disaster assistance fund for housing.

    Additionally, Luján introduced bipartisan legislation to expand Native American housing programs that builds on successful Native American housing programs at the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) authorized by the Native American Housing Assistance and Self-Determination Act (NAHASDA).

    Luján and Heinrich introduced the bipartisan Native American Rural Homeownership Improvement Act of 2021, legislation that would expand an existing U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) pilot program and deploy loans to eligible Native borrowers.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Video: Cassidy Showcases Recent Energy Security Summit, Highlights Foreign Pollution Fee Act in New Video

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy

    (Click here to download and here to watch)  
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) showcased his recent “Louisiana Energy Security Summit: Unleashing America Abundance in a Changing Global Landscape” in a new video. The summit, hosted in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, in mid-October, brought together leaders from the federal, state, and local government, industry, the research community, and elsewhere. During his keynote address and fireside chat, Cassidy highlighted his Foreign Pollution Fee Act, which would even the playing field for American manufacturers while holding China accountable.
    “Right now, China is taking jobs from the United States by not enforcing environmental regulations. If the United States wants the jobs back, we got to begin to make China pay,” said Dr. Cassidy. “My Foreign Pollution Fee Act works for fairness, works for job creation, and stops giving China a cost advantage. It allows us to build a stronger economy not just for Louisiana but for our country.”  
    The summit featured ten panels which explored protecting U.S. interests from unfair trade practices, Louisiana’s low emissions manufacturing advantage, and the role of natural gas in strengthening U.S. geopolitical influence. Panelists included presidents and CEOs from Entergy, First Solar, Buzzi UnicemUSA, Orsted, and Aluminum Technologies, former Trump administration officials, and leaders from Louisiana trade associations and major energy and Fortune 500 companies. 
    Background
    Cassidy and U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-SC) introduced their Foreign Pollution Fee Act to level the playing field with Chinese manufacturing and expand American production.
    In September, he released the 3rd episode of Bill on the Hill, where he highlights his Foreign Pollution Fee Act and discusses China’s growing economy and military coming at the expense of the American worker. After hearing fellow Americans share their concerns, Cassidy presented his plan to address the nexus between economic development, national security, and the environment. His Foreign Pollution Fee Act would even the playing field while holding China accountable.
    He penned editorials in Foreign Affairs, The Washington Times, and jointly in the USA Today Network discussing the geopolitical threat that China poses to U.S. global standing. Cassidy also joined Greta Van Susteren on Newsmax to discuss his foreign pollution fee, noting the competitive advantage China receives from intentionally ignoring environmental standards. 
    Last Spring, the Louisiana Senate and House of Representatives unanimously adopted a resolution urging Congress to pursue an industrial manufacturing and trade policy to counter competition from China. Learn more here. 
    Last Congress, Cassidy released a landmark energy policy outline in response to the Biden administration’s assault on domestic energy. The outline details how we can successfully reset U.S. energy policy, including Cassidy’s plan for an Energy Operation Warp Speed to cut permitting red tape and unleash domestic energy and manufacturing. In support of this complete vision and in addition to the Foreign Pollution Fee Act, Cassidy led Republican colleagues in opposition to a domestic carbon tax and introduced the first comprehensive judicial reform for permitting bill. He also pushed back on disastrous proposals from the Biden administration to limit development in the Outer Continental Shelf with the introduction of the WHALE Act and the Offshore Energy Security Act of 2023.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cassidy Announces $3.6 Million for Louisiana in Hurricane Laura, Delta, Ida Relief

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) announced Louisiana will receive $3,568,827.01 from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for Hurricanes Laura, Delta, and Ida relief.
    “Louisiana communities are resilient no matter the storm,” said Dr. Cassidy. “This funding will help with the continued recovery and return our communities back to wholeness.” 

    Grant Awarded
    Recipient
    Project Description

    $1,312,777.93
    The Society of the Roman Catholic Church of the Diocese of Lafayette, Inc.
    This grant will provide federal funding for permanent work to the St. Francis Mission Chapel as a result of Hurricane Laura.

    $1,202,043.60
    Office of Risk Management
    This grant will provide federal funding for permanent repairs to facilities damaged as a result of Hurricane Delta.

    $1,054,005.48
    Greater Lafourche Port Commission
    This grant will provide federal funding for emergency protective measures as a result of Hurricane Ida.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: New pathway to permanent residence for families of the victims of flight PS752

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    Canada is committed to supporting those affected by the tragic event involving Ukraine International Airlines Flight 752 (PS752).

    October 28, 2024—Ottawa—Canada continues to stand with those affected by the tragic downing of Ukraine International Airlines Flight 752 (PS752) and is committed to continue reuniting the victims’ family members.

    Today, the Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, announced a new pathway to permanent residence for the families of those who lost their lives in the PS752 tragedy. From October 28, 2024, to October 27, 2025, family members of victims of Flight PS752 who were Canadian Citizens, permanent residents or individuals who were approved to work or study in Canada can now apply for permanent residency.

    This new pathway will include most family members identified by the Association of Families of Flight PS752 Victims who were not eligible to apply for permanent residence under the two previous public policies. More information, including how to apply, is available on the IRCC website.

    This new pathway builds on Canada’s previous efforts to support family members with close ties to our country and aligns with our broader pursuit of transparency, justice and accountability for the victims of this tragedy and their loved ones.

    “The downing of Flight PS752 was a horrific event. As we launch this new pathway, we reaffirm our commitment to compassion, justice and human rights. Canada continues to honour the victims of Flight PS752, in solidarity with their families and loved ones who have suffered immeasurable loss.”

    – The Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship

    “The introduction of this new pathway to permanent residence is welcomed news by the families of Flight PS752 victims—especially families of student victims. I would like to thank Minister Miller for his understanding and support as the families work toward healing from the tragic loss of their loved ones.”

    – Kourosh Doustshenas, BSc, CIPS, Spokesperson and Chair, Government and Stakeholders Relations Committee, Association of Families of Flight PS752 Victims

    • On January 8, 2020, Flight PS752 was brought down by two Iranian surface-to-air missiles shortly after takeoff from Tehran, Iran. All 176 passengers and crew were killed, including 55 Canadian citizens and 30 permanent residents of Canada.

    • On September 25, 2020, IRCC put in place special measures to help foreign national families of victims of Ukraine International Airlines Flight PS752 who were stuck in Canada due to border closures during the pandemic.

    • Between May 12, 2021, and May 11, 2022, a temporary public policy was in place to support permanent residence for the extended family of Canadian citizens and permanent residents of Flight PS752 who were in Canada.

    • IRCC launched a subsequent public policy from August 3, 2022, until August 2, 2023, to support permanent residence to certain extended family living outside Canada.

    • Canada continues to work with international partners to hold Iran accountable for its violations of international law, demanding that it provides a full, transparent and credible explanation of the downing.

    • An International Coordination and Response Group to support families of victims of Flight PS752 includes representation by Canada, Sweden, Ukraine and the United Kingdom, and is coordinating legal efforts to pursue the transparency, accountability and justice the families and loved ones deserve.

    Renée LeBlanc Proctor
    Press Secretary
    Minister’s Office
    Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
    Renee.Proctor@cic.gc.ca

    Media Relations
    Communications Sector
    Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
    613-952-1650
    media@cic.gc.ca

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pelosi Announces Nearly $25 Million for San Francisco Downtown Rail Extension

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Nancy Pelosi Representing the 12th District of California

    San Francisco – Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi announced that San Francisco is set to receive nearly $25 million in federal grants from the U.S. Department of Transportation. This federal funding will help connect California High-Speed rail and Caltrain commuter service to the Salesforce Transit Center.

    “Safe, affordable and accessible public transit is key to San Francisco’s economic recovery and to saving the planet from the climate crisis. I salute the Biden-Harris Administration’s commitment to reimagining our nation’s infrastructure, with equity and justice for all,” Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi said.

    Speaker Emerita Pelosi continued: “This new federal investment, made possible by Democrats’ historic Infrastructure Law, will help further unite the Bay by completing the final design for the Downtown Rail Extension. Doing so is essential to make it easier for commuters to get to work, for shoppers to support our local businesses and for communities to stay connected, while reducing our City’s carbon footprint.”

    “Thank you to Transbay for its extraordinary vision, bold leadership and vital partnership in building a better-connected San Francisco,” Speaker Emerita Pelosi concluded.

    Adam Van de Water, Executive Director of the Transbay Joint Powers Authority, said: “Shortly after the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law was signed into law, Speaker Emerita Pelosi spoke from the train box level of the Salesforce Transit Center to convey the importance of BIL for the future of all Californians. The Transbay Joint Powers Authority cannot understate the critical role the Speaker Emerita has played in ensuring the creation of a seamless network of transportation options and we are thrilled to be selected to receive a CRISI award to further San Francisco’s rail connection to Caltrain and California High-Speed Rail through the Portal. Thank you for your steadfast commitment, Speaker Emerita.”

    The Transbay Joint Powers Authority will receive $24.6 million to complete the final design for the track and rail systems that will connect California High-Speed rail and Caltrain commuter service to the Salesforce Transit Center. The project will create jobs and make it easier and cheaper for San Franciscans to utilize public transportation to travel to work, to health care, to schools and to community facilities throughout the entire Bay Area.

    This funding was awarded to the Bay Area from the Federal Railroad Administration’s Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) Program in a competitive national selection process by U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Texas Forestry Association Names Congressman Sessions Legislator of the Year

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Pete Sessions (32nd District of Texas)

    LUFKIN, Tx– Congressman Sessions (TX-17) has been named the Texas Forestry Association’s “Legislator of the Year” for his support of Texas forestry. The TFA has been the “Voice of Forestry in Texas for more than 100 years.”

    “I am honored to receive this award from the TFA. I admire the work of the TFA in supporting Texas forestry. The timber industry plays a vital role in supporting all sectors and many communities in TX-17 rely on forestry-related jobs. I am proud of my record in supporting legislation that protects private landowners and promotes clean, healthy, and productive forest ecosystems,” said Congressman Sessions.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Sessions to Recognize CVC Award Winners

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Pete Sessions (32nd District of Texas)

    WACO, TX– Congressman Sessions will honor the 2024 Heart of Texas recipients of the Congressional Veterans Commendation tomorrow, October 11 at 6:30 PM at the Lee Lockwood Library. Members of the media are invited to attend.

    Location: Lee Lockwood Library
                         2801 W Waco Dr
                         Waco, Texas
                         76707

    Date: October 11, 2024

    Time: 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM

    The Congressional Veterans Commendation is a nominations-based program that recognizes veterans in our community for their military service and community involvement. Honorees are exceptional Americans in every way.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Physician Charged in Scheme to Illegally Sell Cancer Drugs

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 3

    Department of Justice
    U.S. Attorney’s Office
    Eastern District of Michigan

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
    Friday, October 25, 2024

    Detroit – A Royal Oak physician was charged in an Indictment for his role in a multi-million-dollar scheme to illegally sell and divert expensive prescription cancer drugs, United States Attorney Dawn N. Ison announced.

    Joining Ison in the announcement were Special Agent in Charge Mario M. Pinto, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG), Special Agent in Charge Cheyvoryea Gibson, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Special Agent in Charge Angie M. Salazar, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), and Special Agent in Charge Ronne Malham, U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

    Charged in the Indictment is Dr. Naveed Aslam, age 51, of West Bloomfield, Michigan.

    The charges against Dr. Aslam include one count of conspiracy to illegally sell or trade prescription drugs and 10 counts of illegally selling or trading prescription drugs.

    According to the Indictment, by early 2019, and continuing through August 2023, Dr. Aslam, a licensed physician, worked with others to buy and sell expensive cancer drugs for profit and with the intent to defraud and mislead. The other individuals Dr. Aslam worked with identified customers interested in buying prescription cancer drugs, and they communicated with Dr. Aslam about what cancer drugs were requested. Dr. Aslam used his access to certain cancer drugs through his medical practice, Somerset Hematology and Oncology, P.C., to order and purchase the cancer drugs from his supplier. He then sold the cancer drugs to and through the other individuals’ company to the eventual customer. During this scheme, Dr. Aslam acquired and sold more than $17 million in prescription cancer drugs, and personally profited more than $2.5 million.

    “The safety and integrity of our country’s prescription drug supply lines – particularly for cancer drugs – is an important part of our health care system,” stated U.S. Attorney Ison. “As alleged, Dr. Aslam used his role as a physician to violate that integrity and divert prescription cancer drugs away from treating patients. My office is committed to prosecuting medical professionals who seek to profit, rather than protect, our health care system.”

    “Our agency is dedicated to ensuring that medical providers follow laws designed to protect both the integrity and solvency of Federal health care programs, as well as the beneficiaries they serve,” said Mario M. Pinto, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “HHS-OIG will continue to work closely with our Federal law enforcement partners to thoroughly investigate allegations of fraud.”

    “Having the authority to prescribe medication is a privilege that comes with a profound responsibility. Physicians must safeguard against drug diversion,” said Cheyvoryea Gibson, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Michigan. “Dr. Aslam’s alleged participation in this scheme not only allowed him to profit unlawfully from the sale of cancer drugs, but it also posed a serious threat by potentially placing these medications into the wrong hands. This breach of trust is inexcusable, especially considering the critical nature of the drugs involved. The FBI is unwavering in its commitment to hold medical professionals accountable for exploiting their positions for personal gain and endangering community safety.”

    “Introducing diverted prescription drugs into the supply chain and selling them to unsuspecting consumers undermines the FDA safeguards designed to protect the public,” said Ronne Malham, Special Agent in Charge, FDA Office of Criminal Investigations, Chicago Field Office‎. “We remain committed to bringing to justice those who place their personal gain over the health of American consumers.”

    “A physician’s ethical responsibility is to their patients, not to selling cancer drugs under the table for profit,” said HSI Detroit Special Agent in Charge Angie M. Salazar. “We will protect patients against fraud, especially from those in positions of public trust who choose greed over public safety.”

    An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt.

    The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Andrew J. Lievense. Assistant United States Attorney Jessica A. Nathan of the Money Laundering & Asset Recovery Unit is handling related forfeiture matters. The investigation is being conducted jointly by the FBI, HHS-OIG, HSI, and the FDA.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Sydney Airport Traffic and Operational Performance Q3 2024

    Source: Sydney Airport

    Tuesday 29 October 2024

    • Sydney Airport delivers strong performance in Q3 with a total of 10.3 million passengers
    • Improvements to international border experience set to streamline process
    • New Group Executive to join Sydney Airport to help deliver ~$4.4bn capital program over the next five years.

    Sydney Airport delivered strong performance in Q3 (July, August, and September 2024) with a total of 10.3 million passengers passing through the terminals. This represents a 3.3 per cent increase on passenger traffic during the same period last year and a 92.5 per cent recovery compared to Q3 2019.

    Sydney Airport’s T1 international terminal saw 4 million passengers pass through in Q3, a 5.8 per cent increase on the same period last year and a 95.7 per cent recovery rate on Q3 2019.

    Domestic and regional passenger traffic was up 1.8 per cent on the same period last year, with 6.3 million passengers coming through the T2 and T3 domestic terminals and a 90.5 per cent recovery rate on Q3 2019.

    From an operational perspective, Sydney Airport performed strongly in Q3 2024, posting improvements across all operational metrics compared to Q3 2023. Highlights included 100 per cent of passengers passing through security in under 10 minutes and no instances where kerbside drop-off times at the domestic terminal exceeded 10 minutes.

    Sydney Airport is also working closely with Australian Border Force to improve inbound border processing. As a result of this collaboration, Sydney Airport will purchase additional E-Gate kiosks which the ABF will then operate – an example of industry and government working together to help streamline the passenger experience.

    Scott Charlton, Sydney Airport CEO, said: “Despite the headwinds we’re seeing in terms of supply chains affecting airline capacity, we’re pleased with how we are tracking on international passenger traffic.

    “We’ve seen a significant increase in airline seat capacity that’s translating into passenger numbers from countries like India, the Philippines and South Korea increasing relative to 2019 levels. In the case of South Korea, this nationality has increased by 54 per cent compared to 2019 and in Q3 moved above the United Kingdom to become our 5th largest passenger group.

    “We remain optimistic on the outlook for Chinese passengers as tour groups return, and with new mainland China carriers like Juneyao Air joining before the end of the year, and existing carriers boosting capacity, we expect to finish the year very close to pre-COVID levels of Chinese passengers.

    “Domestically, performance remains impacted by a shift in discretionary business travel.

    “Operationally, we’re consistently beating our 10-minute metric for kerbside drop-off times and security processing, which is pleasing because it reflects our focus on creating a faster and more efficient experience for passengers. We are also continuing with our transparency agenda and will shortly be launching kerbside wait times on our website, which follows the deployment of live security wait times back in May.

    “Providing visibility into how the airport is performing in real time is important in terms passengers planning their trip to the airport, and getting an insight into what their experience will be like when they get here.”

    New Group Executive to join Sydney Airport

    Paul Willis will be joining Sydney Airport in November as Group Executive – Planning and Delivery.

    Paul joins from Manchester Airport Group (MAG), where he has spent the last nine years as Chief Development Officer, Group Strategy and Aviation Director and Engineering Services Director.

    Before MAG, Paul spent over 20 years working on the development of airport infrastructure across leading international airports, and he started his career with National Air Traffic Services in the UK. He brings extensive aviation and airport experience ranging across planning, design, construction, commercial development, and operations.

    Mr Charlton said: “Given the size and complexity of our capital program over the next five years, it’s important that we have someone with deep experience in the airport infrastructure space.

    “Paul brings significant experience in designing and delivering complex aviation capital programs and we are looking forward to welcoming him in November.”

    Passenger and operational performance data

    Click here for the Q3 passenger and performance data.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI: Extraordinary Experiences Cultivate Loyal Brand Advocates

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Solidifi releases results from its Annual 2024 Consumer Mortgage Experience Survey(1)and the Solidifi 2024 Future Plans of Homeowners Survey(2)

    BUFFALO, N.Y. and DENVER, Oct. 28, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The sixth annual national survey(1) commissioned by Solidifi U.S. Inc. (“Solidifi”) revealed pent-up demand for home purchases remains strong even amid uncertain market conditions. The 2024 results offer valuable insights on how to make homeownership more accessible for borrowers as the market shifts and how to create extraordinary experiences and cultivate loyal brand advocates to drive future business.

    “The findings show that during times of uncertainty, brand loyalty strengthens as consumers seek stability in their financial decisions,” said Solidifi President Loren Cooke. “The leading factor in lender choice continues to be a strong lending relationship. As a majority of consumers face increasing affordability issues, their propensity to bundle services with lenders also increases. And, this year more than ever, consumers are acting on their positive experiences – driving repeat and referral business.”

    This year, the survey also introduced the mortgage industry’s Net Promoter Score (NPS), which received a solid 53 – well above the 30+ NPS benchmark for the financial services sector. “Interestingly, Gen Z consumers rated the industry lower, with a 34 NPS compared to all other demographics whose scores were in the 50’s. This suggests an opportunity to engage younger generations by focusing on transparency and building meaningful connections,” added Cooke. “Across generations, providing extraordinary experiences instills trust within the lender’s customer base and consumers become more likely to continue to expand existing relationships,” Cooke concluded.

    In addition to the Annual 2024 Consumer Mortgage Experience Survey(1), Solidifi also conducted the 2024 Future Plans of Homeowners Survey(2) to explore how market conditions influence borrowers’ future real estate plans. The Solidifi 2024 Future Plans Survey revealed that while affordability issues remain prevalent, borrowers are increasingly researching options and adjusting expectations. Despite rising costs, homeownership continues to be seen as a pathway to generational wealth, with 60% of respondents planning to purchase a home within the next three to five years.

    “Though higher interest rates have left many borrowers hesitant, the intent to buy remains strong. The median timeframe for future purchases is now around 2.25 years,” noted Cooke. “Exurb migration is outpacing urban growth as consumers seek more space, affordability, and better quality of life – trends particularly notable in underserved markets.”

    For future borrowers, the rising cost of homeownership and a feeling of not being prepared are the largest barriers to entry. This year, borrowers faced greater difficulty with down payments; credit score challenges were on the rise, and many were increasingly motivated by the need to access cash for life events. Lenders are addressing this by offering special programs to overcome barriers to homeownership and rising housing costs. In 2024, borrowers were more informed about the special programs available to help reduce their costs in anticipation of their next move.

    “Consistent with results from the past five years, borrowers continue to prioritize in-person interactions for both appraisals and closings,” said Cooke. “Across all generations, face-to-face engagement continues to be preferred due to the trust and care it fosters during what is the most significant financial transaction in a person’s life. However, there are opportunities to raise awareness, encourage adoption, and increase acceptance of digital tools throughout the process to provide the efficient, transparent and personalized experience consumers want.”

    Results indicated that 82% of respondents prefer an in-person closing though Gen Z is most open to hybrid closing processes at 39%. Of the 82% who prefer face-to-face interactions: 56% prefer a paper process, 19% prefer in-person with fully electronic documents, and 25% prefer an in-person hybrid process. The top reasons for preferring face-to-face interactions are trust and the ability to get immediate answers during such a significant transaction.

    “Results point to a direct relationship between offering convenience, transparency and flexibility, and a higher customer satisfaction,” said Cooke. “Providing an extraordinary experience including proactive communication throughout the transaction, convenient scheduling options, offering closing options and meeting expectations will result in happy customers, every time.”

    To download the full survey results, visit: go.solidifi.com/2024mortgageexperiencesurvey.

    [1]
    In the Solidifi 2024 Consumer Mortgage Experience Survey, Market Street Research surveyed 1,000+ residential borrowers 18 years of age or older in the United States who purchased, refinanced or closed on a home equity loan or line of credit within the last two years. Panelists included a mix of those who purchased a home, refinanced or obtained a home equity loan or line of credit with approximately 49% closing within the past year, and 51% closing one to two years ago.

    [2]
    In the Solidifi 2024 Future Plans of Homeowners Survey, Market Street Research, surveyed 1,100+ residential borrowers 18 years of age or older in the United States who are a current homeowner or intend on owning a home at some point in the future. 56% of respondents currently own a home, 10% previously owned a home and 34% have never owned a home. Panelists included a mix of future buyers across the U.S. and those in underserved markets.

    Both surveys were fielded by Snap Surveys, and the panels were sourced by Dynata. Fielding was executed July 2024.

    About Solidifi
    Solidifi is a leading network management services provider for the residential lending industry. Our platform combines proprietary technology and network management capabilities with tens of thousands of independent qualified field professionals to create an efficient marketplace for the provision of mortgage lending services. We are a leading independent provider of residential real estate appraisals and title, and settlement services. Our clients include top 100 mortgage lenders in the U.S. Solidifi is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Real Matters (TSX: REAL). Visit www.solidifi.com for more information and stay connected with our latest news on LinkedIn.

    For more information:
    Jennie Craig
    Vice President, Marketing
    jlcraig@solidifi.com
    832.236.3392

    Solidifi and the Solidifi logo are trademarks of Real Matters and/or its subsidiaries. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/b0d1d0e2-8767-4632-a822-15904de0041d

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Feenstra Helps Lead Letter Demanding Answers from USDA over Pure Prairie Poultry Fiasco

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Randy Feenstra (IA-04)

    HULL, IOWA – Last Friday, U.S. Rep. Randy Feenstra (R-Hull) helped lead a letter with U.S. Senator Chuck Grassley (R-IA), U.S. Rep. Brad Finstad (R-MN), and U.S. Rep. Derrick Van Orden (R-WI) to U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack demanding answers about the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s 2022 approval of nearly $46 million in taxpayer dollars for Pure Prairie Poultry and its subsequent bankruptcy in late September.

    “Iowa taxpayers deserve to know the full story behind the Pure Prairie Poultry bankruptcy and how the USDA approved nearly $46 million in taxpayer dollars for a company that left millions of chickens uncared for. This serious lack of oversight is extremely concerning and has caused massive uncertainty for our growers who are already facing a harsh farm economy,” said Rep. Feenstra. “Our letter to USDA will help us get answers for our growers and address the federal government’s carelessness with taxpayer dollars. I commend Secretary Naig for responding quickly and professionally to this crisis.”

    “USDA has provided millions of dollars in taxpayer-funded loans and grants to meat and poultry processors across the country, which is why my colleagues and I are calling on USDA to provide answers,” said Rep. Finstad. “While expanding livestock markets and processing capacity is critical for farm country, the lack of oversight of these dollars by USDA harmed producers and caused a significant disruption to our nation’s food supply chain.”

    “USDA is responsible for keeping tabs on the taxpayer-funded grants it administers, but it clearly dropped the ball with Pure Prairie. Iowans and others across America’s Heartland have lost their jobs and their poultry market as a result of Pure Prairie’s closure. USDA must explain to Congress and the public what went wrong to help prevent a repeat scenario,” said Sen. Grassley.

    Pure Prairie Poultry’s bankruptcy left approximately 1.3 million broiler chickens in Iowa without feed causing Secretary Naig and the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship to take over care, custody, and control of the birds in Iowa. After several alternative efforts were made to sell the broilers, depopulation of the birds in Iowa concluded last Friday.

    The full letter can be found HERE.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Mann Hosts Fourth Annual Military Academy Nomination Day

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Tracey Mann (Kansas, 1)

    ABILENE, KS – Today, U.S. Representative Tracey Mann (KS-01) hosted his fourth annual Congressional Military Academy Nomination Day. As the Representative for the Big First District in Congress, Rep. Mann has the privilege of offering military academy nominations to the five U.S. service academies for students in the district. The interviews took place at the Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum in Abilene, Kansas. 

    “One of my greatest honors in Congress is nominating students from the Big First to attend our nation’s service academies,” said Rep. Mann. “The students we met represent the best of Kansas, and I am grateful for their desire to serve our country and grow into the next generation of military leaders. It is always a pleasure to host the military academy selection committee in the childhood hometown of five-star U.S. Army General and son of Kansas, President Dwight D. Eisenhower. I also owe a debt of gratitude to the panel for lending their expertise and unique perspectives to the selection process. We look forward to these students’ success.”

    Rep. Mann appointed a panel of Kansans from the Big First District with extensive experience in U.S. military service or working closely with the military. The five-person panel included: 

    •  Mary Eisenhower, granddaughter of President Eisenhower and Chairman Emeritus of People to People International 

    • AJ Kuhle, U.S. Air Force Academy alumnus, U.S. Air Force Veteran, and President of ACE Scholarships

    • Mark Claussen, Director of Business Development of Icon Structures and former Executive Director of USO Kansas 

    • Michael Utz, retired Garden City Police Chief and U.S. Air Force Veteran, Law Enforcement Coordinator for the Bureau of Justice Assistance 

    • MSG (Ret.) Joshua Sandlin, Army Veteran and Executive Director of the Society of the 1st Infantry Division

    Eight high school students in the district applied for a military academy nomination through Rep. Mann’s office. In the coming weeks, the panel will notify the students whom they have chosen to receive these competitive nominations. 

    Rep. Mann is a former member of the House Committee on Veterans Affairs and a strong supporter of America’s U.S. military service members. 

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –