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  • MIL-OSI Economics: Jordan — IMF Staff Conclude Article IV Discussions and Reach Staff Level Agreement on the Second Review under the Extended Fund Facility

    Source: International Monetary Fund

    October 10, 2024

    End-of-Mission press releases include statements of IMF staff teams that convey preliminary findings after a visit to a country. The views expressed in this statement are those of the IMF staff and do not necessarily represent the views of the IMF’s Executive Board. Based on the preliminary findings of this mission, staff will prepare a report that, subject to management approval, will be presented to the IMF’s Executive Board for discussion and decision.

    • IMF staff and the Jordanian authorities have reached a staff level agreement on the second review under the Extended Fund Facility (EFF). All commitments for the second review under the program have been met, demonstrating the authorities’ steadfast commitment to sound macro-economic policies and continued progress on reforms.
    • Jordan continues to show resilience and maintain macro-economic stability, despite the headwinds caused by the intensifying conflict in the region. Jordan’s economy is expected to grow by 2.3 percent in 2024 and 2.5 percent in 2025. However, strong and timely international support remains important to help Jordan face the external headwinds, and to continue to shoulder the cost of hosting a large number of Syrian refugees.
    • Bringing the Jordanian economy onto a higher growth trajectory is essential to create more jobs and raise prosperity. This requires accelerating structural reforms, while maintaining macro-economic stability, and making significant progress in implementing the authorities’ Economic Modernization Vision.

    Amman: A staff team from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), led by Ron van Rooden, visited Amman during September 30–October 10, 2024, for discussions on the 2024 Article IV consultation and the second review under the arrangement under the IMF’s Extended Fund Facility (EFF), which was approved by the IMF’s Executive Board on January 10, 2024 (Press Release).

    At the conclusion of the mission, Mr. van Rooden issued the following statement:

    “We are pleased to announce that the IMF team and the Jordanian authorities reached a staff-level agreement on the second review of the authorities’ economic reform program supported by the EFF arrangement, approved in January of this year. Program performance continues to be strong, despite a challenging external environment. All quantitative performance criteria and structural benchmarks for the second review were met and steady progress is being made toward achieving the program’s overall objectives, including good progress toward meeting benchmarks for future reviews. The agreement is subject to approval by the IMF’s management and the Executive Board. The completion of this review will make another SDR 97.784 million (about US$131 million) available, out of the previously approved program size of SDR 926.370 million (about US$1.2 billion).  

    “Jordan continues to show resilience and maintain macro-economic stability, despite the headwinds caused by the intensifying conflict in the region. This resilience is the result of the authorities’ continued pursuit of sound macro-economic policies and reform progress. The recent upgrades to Jordan’s credit ratings, the first in over 20 years, testify to the credibility of the authorities’ economic policies.

    “Nonetheless, as the conflict continues and widens, it is having a larger impact on Jordan’s economy than anticipated at the outset of the program. The economy is projected to grow by 2.3 percent this year, with weaker domestic demand offset by a stronger performance in net exports. Growth is projected at 2.5 percent for 2025. Inflation remains low, at 2 percent, thanks to the Central Bank of Jordan’s (CBJ) firm commitment to monetary stability and safeguarding the exchange rate peg. The financial sector remains healthy and well capitalized. The current account deficit is projected to narrow to 4.4 percent of GDP this year, helping to further build the CBJ’s reserve buffers, and to widen slightly to 4.7 percent of GDP in 2025.

    “Government revenues have been adversely affected this year by the weaker domestic demand, as well as a sharper-than-expected drop in the prices of key export commodities. The authorities have taken strong actions to offset the revenue shortfall to contain this year’s central government budget deficit. With this, the authorities are committed to limit this year’s central government primary deficit (excluding grants and transfers to public utilities) to 2.9 percent of GDP, up slightly from 2.7 percent of GDP in 2023. Together with measures taken to limit the operational losses of the utility companies and continued surpluses of the social security system, the overall general government primary deficit (excluding grants) is expected to remain broadly unchanged this year, at 1.3 percent of GDP, compared to 1.4 percent in 2023, and public debt to be contained at just over 90 percent of GDP by end-2024.

    “The authorities are firmly committed to continue to implement sound macro-economic policies to maintain stability and to advance structural reforms needed to further strengthen the resilience of Jordan’s economy and to improve people’s living standards, as envisaged also in their Economic Modernization Vision. Notably, fiscal policy aims to reduce public debt to 80 percent of GDP by 2028 to ensure fiscal sustainability, by advancing a gradual fiscal consolidation, including limiting the central government primary deficit (excluding grants and transfers to the public utilities) to 2 percent of GDP in 2025. With further efforts to improve the finances of the public utilities and continued surpluses of the social security system, the overall general government primary deficit (excluding grants) will be reduced by 1.1 percent of GDP to 0.2 percent of GDP. The CBJ’s monetary policy will continue to be underpinned by its firm commitment to the exchange rate peg to the US dollar and to maintain low inflation, and the CBJ stands ready to undertake policy adjustments as necessary to credibly safeguard monetary and financial stability.

    “The authorities are determined to step up the pace of structural reforms to achieve stronger growth and generate more jobs, which is particularly important given that unemployment remains high, particularly among the youth and women. Reforms will focus on improving the business environment, to attract more investment, by enhancing competition and labor market flexibility, while further strengthening the social safety net. Efforts will also focus on streamlining regulation and digitalization of government services, including tax and customs administration.  

    “The staff team is grateful to the authorities for the candid and constructive discussions. The team met with Prime Minister Hassan, Minister of Finance Shibli, Minister of Planning and International Cooperation Toukan, Minister of Economic Affairs Shehadeh, Governor of the Central Bank of Jordan Al-Sharkas; and other Ministers and senior government and CBJ officials.”

    IMF Communications Department
    MEDIA RELATIONS

    PRESS OFFICER: Angham Al Shami

    Phone: +1 202 623-7100Email: MEDIA@IMF.org

    @IMFSpokesperson

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI: Cohen Circle Acquisition Corp. I Announces Pricing of $200,000,000 Initial Public Offering

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    PHILADELPHIA, PA, Oct. 10, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Cohen Circle Acquisition Corp. I (NASDAQ:CCIRU) (the “Company”) today announced the pricing of its initial public offering of 20,000,000 units at a price of $10.00 per unit. The Company’s units will be listed on the Nasdaq Global Market under the symbol “CCIRU” and will begin trading on October 11, 2024. Each unit issued in the offering consists of one Class A ordinary share of the Company and one-third of one redeemable warrant, each whole warrant exercisable for one Class A ordinary share at an exercise price of $11.50 per share. Once the securities comprising the units begin separate trading, the Class A ordinary shares and warrants are expected to be listed on NASDAQ under the symbols “CCIR” and “CCIRW,” respectively. No fractional warrants will be issued upon separation of the units and only whole warrants will trade. The closing of the offering is anticipated to take place on or about October 15, 2024, subject to customary closing conditions.

    Cantor Fitzgerald & Co. is serving as the sole book-running manager for the offering. The Company has granted the underwriters a 45-day option to purchase up to an additional 3,000,000 units at the initial public offering price to cover over-allotments, if any. 

    The Company is a blank check company formed for the purpose of effecting a merger, share exchange, asset acquisition, share purchase, reorganization or similar business combination with one or more businesses. The Company may pursue an acquisition opportunity in any business or industry or at any stage of its corporate evolution. The Company’s primary focus, however, will be to identify companies in the financial services technology (fintech) sector and fintech adjacent sectors that power transformation and innovation. The Company is sponsored by Cohen Circle, LLC, and the management team is led by Betsy Z. Cohen, its Chairman of the Board of Directors, President and Chief Executive Officer.

    A registration statement relating to the units and the underlying securities was declared effective by the Securities and Exchange Commission on October 10, 2024. This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy, nor shall there be any sale of, these securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation, or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or jurisdiction.

    The offering is being made only by means of a prospectus, copies of which may be obtained by contacting Cantor Fitzgerald & Co., Attention: Capital Markets, 499 Park Avenue, 5th Floor, New York, New York 10022, email: prospectus@cantor.com. Copies of the registration statement can be accessed for free through the SEC’s website at http://www.sec.gov.

    This press release contains statements that constitute “forward-looking statements,” including with respect to the initial public offering. No assurance can be given that such offering will be completed on the terms described, or at all. Forward-looking statements are subject to numerous conditions, many of which are beyond the control of the Company, including those set forth in the Risk Factors section of the Company’s registration statement and preliminary prospectus for the offering filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The Company undertakes no obligation to update these statements for revisions or changes after the date of this press release, except as required by law.

    Contact Information:

    Cohen Circle Acquisition Corp. I
     info@cohencircle.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Click Holdings Limited Announces Closing of Initial Public Offering

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Hong Kong, Oct. 10, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Click Holdings Limited (“CLIK” or the “Company”), a Hong Kong-based human resources solutions provider primarily focusing on talent sourcing and the provision of temporary and permanent personnel to customers including accounting and professional firms, Hong Kong listed companies, nursing homes, individual patients, logistics companies and warehouses, today announced the closing of its previously announced initial public offering of an aggregate 1,400,000 Ordinary Shares (“the Offering”) at a price of $4.00 per share (“the Offering Price”) to the public, for a total gross proceeds of $5.6 million to the Company, before deducting underwriting discounts and offering expenses.

    The Ordinary Shares began trading on the Nasdaq Capital Market on October 9, 2024, under the symbol “CLIK.”

    R.F. Lafferty & Co., Inc. (“Lafferty”), a full-service broker/dealer, acted as the primary underwriter for the Offering. Revere Securities LLC (“Revere”), a full-service broker/dealer, acted as the co-manager for the Offering. Dorsey & Whitney LLP, David Fong & Co, Beijing Dacheng Law Offices, LLP (Shenzhen) and Ogier are acting as U.S., Hong Kong, PRC and BVI legal counsel to the Company, respectively. Wei, Wei & Co., LLP is acting as the independent accountants of the Company. VCL Law LLP is acting as the U.S. legal counsel to Lafferty and Revere for the Offering.

    The Offering is being conducted pursuant to the Company’s registration statement on Form F-1 (File No. 333-280522), as amended, which was declared effective by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) on September 30, 2024. The Offering is being made only by means of a prospectus, which forms part of the registration statement. Copies of the final prospectus related to the Offering may be obtained, when available, from R.F. Lafferty & Co., Inc., 40 Wall Street, 27th Floor, New York, NY 10005, by phone at +1 212 293 9090 or by email at offering@rflafferty.com; or Revere Securities LLC, 560 Lexington Ave 16th floor, New York, NY, 10022, by phone at +1 212 688 2350 or by email at contact@reversesecurities.com. A copy of the final prospectus relating to the Offering can be obtained via the SEC’s website at http://www.sec.gov.

    Before you invest, you should read the prospectus and other documents the Company has filed with the SEC for more information about the Company and the Offering. This press release has been prepared for informational purposes only and shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy these securities, nor shall such securities be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from registration, nor shall there be any offer, solicitation or sale of these securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or jurisdiction.

    About Click Holdings Limited
     Click Holdings Limited is a human resources solutions provider, specializing in offering comprehensive human resources solutions in three principal sectors, namely (i) professional solution services, (ii) nursing solution services, and (iii) logistics and other solution services. We are primarily focused on talent sourcing and the provision of temporary and permanent personnel to customers. Our primary market is in Hong Kong and our diverse clientele includes accounting and professional firms, Hong Kong listed companies, nursing homes, individual patients, logistics companies and warehouses. We specialize primarily in placing professional accountants and company secretaries, registered nurses and healthcare workers, as well as other blue-collar workers, for direct hire and contract staffing roles. For more information, please visit our website https://clickholdings.com.hk.

    FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
    Certain statements contained in this press release about future expectations, plans and prospects, as well as any other statements regarding matters that are not historical facts, may constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements include, but are not limited to, statements relating to the expected trading commencement and closing dates. The words “anticipate,” “believe,” “continue,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “may,” “plan,” “potential,” “predict,” “project,” “should,” “target,” “will,” “would” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain these identifying words. Actual results may differ materially from those indicated by such forward-looking statements as a result of various important factors, including: the uncertainties related to market conditions and the completion of the public offering on the anticipated terms or at all, and other factors discussed in the “Risk Factors” section of the preliminary prospectus filed with the SEC. For these reasons, among others, investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance upon any forward-looking statements in this press release. Any forward-looking statements contained in this press release speak only as of the date hereof, and Luda Technology Group Limited specifically disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

    For more information, please contact:

    offerings@rflafferty.com
    Equity Capital Markets
    R. F. Lafferty & Co., Inc.
    40 Wall Street, 27th Floor, 
    New York, NY 10005
    212.293.9090

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Pieridae to Hold Conference Call and Webcast to Discuss Third Quarter 2024 Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO UNITED STATES NEWS WIRE SERVICES OR DISSEMINATION IN UNITED STATES

    CALGARY, Alberta, Oct. 10, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Pieridae Energy Limited (“Pieridae” or the “Company”) (TSX: PEA) will release its financial and operating results for the third quarter 2024, on Wednesday, November 6, 2024, after markets close.

    President & Chief Executive Officer Darcy Reding and Chief Financial Officer Adam Gray will discuss the financial results and company developments on an investor conference call and webcast on Thursday, November 7, 2024, at 8:30 a.m. MST / 10:30 a.m. EST.

    To register to participate via webcast please follow this link:

    https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/x7jqdags

    Alternatively, to register to participate by telephone please follow this link:

    https://register.vevent.com/register/BI1c44d36dab364545b0c536614eb099d8

    A replay of the webcast will be available two hours after the conclusion of the event and may be accessed using the webcast link above.

    ABOUT PIERIDAE

    Pieridae is a Canadian energy company headquartered in Calgary, Alberta. The Company is a significant upstream producer and midstream custom processor of natural gas, natural gas liquids, condensate, and sulphur from the Canadian Foothills and adjacent areas in Alberta and in northeast British Columbia. Pieridae’s vision is to provide responsible, affordable natural gas and derived products to meet society’s energy security needs. Pieridae’s Common Shares trade on the TSX under the symbol “PEA”.

    For further information, visit http://www.pieridaeenergy.com, or please contact:

    Darcy Reding, President and Chief Executive Officer
    Telephone: (403) 261-5900    		 Adam Gray, Chief Financial Officer
    Telephone: (403) 261-5900
       
    Investor Relations
    investors@pieridaeenergy.com    		  

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Police catch up with gang members after driving dangerously

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    A group of Tribesman gang members face charges after being observed driving dangerous across south Auckland last night.

    Five arrests were made, infringements issued, and six prized motorbikes have been impounded and are now off the road for six months.

    Earlier on Thursday evening, Police observed a group of gang members speeding on State Highway 1 near Pōkeno at around 6pm.

    “They were driving dangerously at high speeds and intimidating over road users with their reckless behaviour,” Counties Manukau Road Policing Manager, Inspector Tony Wakelin, says.

    “The Police Eagle helicopter was deployed and provided commentary to ground units, as the group exited the motorway at East Tāmaki Road.”

    Inspector Wakelin says Police units had gathered to intercept the group and signalled for the riders to stop.

    “Disappointingly the group disregarded this, and they fled from Police towards Ōtara, travelling at well over twice the legal speed limit and through a red light.”

    Eagle followed the group to an address on Berrett Place, before Police entered the address to conduct further enquiries.

    “We were then able to identify some the motorbikes and the alleged riders involved in the earlier offending.”

    As a result, three patched members aged 24, 28 and 38, have been summoned to appear in the Manukau District Court at a later date for failing to stop and dangerous driving.

    Two youths at the address were arrested over breaching of bail conditions and obstructing Police.

    “Further enquiries are continuing to locate the other motorbikes and riders involved,” Inspector Wakelin says.

    “This was great work from Police staff to manage a potentially volatile situation and bring it to a safe and satisfying conclusion.

    “Other road users should not expect to have their safety put at risk as it was last night. The behaviour of these gang members was completely unacceptable.”

    ENDS.

    Tony Wright/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: A force for prevention

    Source: Victoria Country Fire Authority

    Made up of more than 700 volunteers from brigades across the state, CFA’s Planned Burn Taskforce (PBTF) is a critical initiative to reduce the severity of bushfire, and protect lives, properties and the environment.

    Taskforce members have a variety of skills sets. Some have extensive burning experience and years of membership under their belts; others are newer CFA members who have recently completed their General Firefighter training. 

    At its core, the taskforce’s efforts aim to reduce fuel loads. However, the proactive, coordinated approach to the burns not only helps safeguard communities, but also preserves natural habitats and biodiversity, promoting rejuvenation and resilience.

    Members interested in joining the PBTF must complete General Firefighter, Entrapment Drill and Tree Hazard Awareness and have their captain’s approval. For more information visit Members Online. 

    We spoke to three members of the taskforce to find out their motivations for joining and why they believe the taskforce is important.

    Michelle Tie, Rowville Brigade

    Rowville brigade firefighter Michelle Tie said being a member of the PBTF gave her the opportunity to be active across wider sections of the community.

    A CFA member for five years and in the Planned Burn Taskforce for three, Michelle saw joining the group as an opportunity to get hands-on experience with fire after completing her General Firefighter training.

    “I hadn’t done any planned burning prior to joining the taskforce. It’s a fantastic way to learn and build experience, and I have learned so much ‘on the job’.”

    Michelle said she was initially nervous attending her first burn with the taskforce because she was the only member from her brigade, but she found the group to be incredibly supportive.

    “By stepping outside of my comfort zone, I have learned so much about fire behaviour especially across different environments which are often very different to the usual callouts we get at Rowville,” Michelle said.

    “I came away from that first burn a much more confident firefighter.

    “I love working with different brigades and members from across the state – the camaraderie makes me incredibly proud to be a part of CFA.” 

    Michelle believes that the success of the PBTF lies in its ability to support brigades to achieve local and state goals. 

    “It’s so vital that brigades have access to the support, skills and experience of the wider CFA community to manage their fire risk,” she said.

    “At the end of the day, this makes Victoria safer for everyone.”

    Tully Machtynger, Kalorama and Mt Dandenong Brigade

    “Joining the taskforce is a great opportunity to get hands-on experience and training on the tools especially for members of smaller brigades who may not get close to, and experience, fire prior to a campaign season,” Tully Machtynger said.  

    “It also provides the opportunity to network with the broader CFA community, talk to people from other brigades and learn how they operate and train.”

    A firefighter and Junior leader, Tully has been a member of Kalorama and Mt Dandenong brigade for two years and a member of the PBTF for one. 

    “Being fairly new to CFA and the area, joining the taskforce was recommended by one of my assessors when I was going through General Firefighter as a great way to see and get used to fire in a controlled way,” Tully said.

    “I’ve been to six or seven burns across the state, predominantly in West Region. I hadn’t done any planned burning prior to joining the taskforce, only responding with my brigade to a couple of escaped burn-offs conducted by local residents.”

    The taskforce is activated when districts are unable to fulfil needs locally. While it’s a role that requires flexibility and the time commitment varies, Tully said she has learned so much working alongside experienced taskforce members. 

    “It’s psychologically beneficial to know what you can face in practice, and the taskforce has definitely value-added to my volunteer experience,” Tully said. “My sense of my own capability has completely changed. By my third burn I felt more confident turning out and in my ability to support my own brigade on the fireground.”

    Elvis Crook, Bulla Brigade 

    With 21 years of membership under his belt, a change in career gave Bulla Captain Elvis Crook more flexibility in his availability so he put himself forward for the PBTF.

    “I’ve participated in a number of planned burns over the years. I thought the taskforce would be a good opportunity to network with members from across the state as well as keep my fireground skills sharp,” he said.

    “There is no better means of observing fire behaviour in a controlled environment which ultimately benefits your skills throughout an active fire season. 

    “An added benefit of having such a broad group of members together from across the state is being able to informally share information and ideas.”

    Elvis said that without the taskforce many critical burns wouldn’t go ahead as regularly. 

    “I remember a burn earlier in the year where I was on a local truck with the brigade captain. The rest of the crew was from the PBTF. 

    “He was very thankful that we were there to crew the truck as the burn we were doing would help protect his land and that of other community members.” 

    Elvis says that if you are thinking of joining the taskforce – do it!

    “The thing I enjoy the most is the camaraderie. The taskforce is like a family; I have made connections with other members who I now call friends. 

    “Attending a burn is also training in itself. I’d highly recommend any newer members who have not had a lot of fireground experience or might be with a brigade with low call numbers to join to build on their experience.

    “I’ve been in the CFA a long time and haven’t immediately felt so at home like I do with this crew.”

    Submitted by News and Media

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Minister of Justice joins OECD Global Roundtable on promoting democracy and equal access to justice

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    News release

    October 10, 2024 – Ottawa, Ontario – Department of Justice Canada

    Access to justice is a fundamental value of the Canadian justice system, in line with our country’s respect for the rule of law. Justice Canada remains committed to playing a leadership role in advancing a people-centred approach to justice and the law, including through its international relationships.

    The Honourable Arif Virani, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) joined delegates from around the globe as Justice Canada co-hosted, in collaboration with Canada’s International Development Research Centre, the 2024 OECD Global Roundtable of Access to Justice.

    The two-day roundtable included more than 100 delegates from OECD member and partner countries, academia, and civil society as well as representatives from international, regional, and legal academic organizations. Discussions supported the implementation of the 2023 OECD Recommendation on Access to Justice and People-Centred Justice Systems and its core components, which include: building a purpose and culture in the justice sector that puts consideration of the individual at the heart of justice responses; designing and delivering people-centred justice services; establishing an enabling governance infrastructure; empowering people to be informed and to participate; and committing to evidence-based planning, monitoring, evaluation and accountability.

    The Global Roundtable on Access to Justice is part of a series for knowledge-sharing on people-centered justice at the highest level of government. As part of the OECD Reinforcing Democracy Initiative, the 2024 OECD Roundtable seeks to advance people-centred justice, to strengthen democracy and public trust, to foster prosperity and to contribute to achieving Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 16 on promoting the rule of law and ensuring equal access to justice for all. Building on the momentum of the previous Roundtables, this event explored measures and strategies to bring justice closer to communities in practical, inclusive and compassionate manner. To achieve this, participants shared experiences and challenges related to the implementation of different justice pathways and innovation to reach people and enable them to resolve their everyday justice problems.

    Quotes

    “Access to justice is a fundamental element of any healthy justice system, and an important pillar of democracy. This Roundtable helps advance our understanding of the role of justice and the rule of law in advancing these key principles. Canada will continue to focus on making our justice systems more responsive and more inclusive, while ensuring the justice sector can respond to global challenges. We are moving in the right direction to achieve our access to justice goals, including the full realization of Sustainable Development Goal 16.”

    The Honourable Arif Virani, P.C., M.P.
    Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada

    “The discussions over the past two days reaffirmed the critical importance of the rule of law and people-centred justice, of which Canada is a champion, particularly in the context of increasing pressures on democracy. The OECD, notably through its Reinforcing Democracy Initiative, has been instrumental in supporting countries to make justice systems more responsive, accessible, and people-centred. The outcomes from this Roundtable will inform the development of a toolkit to help policymakers implement the OECD Recommendation and will contribute to global efforts, including the forthcoming OECD Global Forum on Building Trust and Reinforcing Democracy and the 2025 UN High-Level Political Forum, as we work towards creating a future where justice serves everyone.”

    Elsa Pilichowski,
    Director for Public Governance, OECD

    Quick facts

    • The annual OECD Roundtable is the premier international meeting of governments, justice sector stakeholders and partners to share information and insights in justice globally.

    • The OECD Recommendation on Access to Justice is an important tool to support countries in their efforts to promote transparent, responsive and inclusive justice systems. The efforts that flow from their work will promote justice-related commitments and peer learning to advance open government, open justice and equal access to justice.

    • Following the adoption of the Recommendation in 2023, the OECD and its partners are developing practical tools, including concrete examples of initiatives and promising practices, that countries could use in support of their implementation of the Recommendation on access to justice.

    Associated links

    Contacts

    For more information, media may contact:

    Chantalle Aubertin
    Deputy Director, Communications
    Office of the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada
    613-992-6568
    Chantalle.Aubertin@justice.gc.ca

    Media Relations
    Department of Justice Canada
    613-957-4207
    media@justice.gc.ca

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Child care program closed over safety concerns

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    As a result of a number of non-compliances involving unsupervised children, Willowbrae Academy West Point Centre, a child-care program in Edmonton, was suspended and placed on a probationary licence with a term that expired on Oct. 9. Since the probationary license was issued, Child Care Licensing has worked with the program through enhanced monitoring to support them in returning to compliance.

    Due to ongoing concerns and unaddressed non-compliances involving unsupervised children, Willowbrae Academy’s suspended licence was not reinstated. The closure of this program affects about 187 children.

    Families affected by the closure of the program were notified in person on Oct. 9. Families not informed in person will be notified by email as soon as the contact information is provided by the child-care program. In addition, a notice confirming closure of the program, which describes the reason for closure, has been posted on the door of the facility.

    Jobs, Economy and Trade will continue to provide support, information and assistance to families looking for alternative child-care options.

    Anyone with concerns about a child-care program in their community or needing to report an incident is encouraged to call Child Care Connect toll-free at 1-844-644-5165.

    Information on child-care program closures can be found on the Finding and Choosing Child Care webpage (link below).

    Quick facts

    • Jobs, Economy and Trade monitors licensed child-care programs across the province and takes appropriate actions to ensure safety and compliance with the Early Learning and Child Care Act and the Early Learning and Child Care Regulation.
    • A licence holder who is subject to a decision respecting their licence may request, within 30 days of the decision, an administrative review, alternative dispute resolution or an appeal to bring forward concerns regarding a licencing decision, up to and including cancellation.
    • Alternative child-care options can be found online through the Child Care Lookup Tool.

    Related information

    • Child Care Lookup Tool
    • Finding and Choosing Child Care
    • Early Learning and Child Care Act
    • Child Care licensing – How to appeal

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Prime Minister Justin Trudeau meets with Prime Minister of Malaysia Anwar Ibrahim

    Source: Government of Canada – Prime Minister

    Today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau met with the Prime Minister of Malaysia, Anwar Ibrahim, on the margins of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations Summit.

    The prime ministers discussed the dynamic bilateral relationship between Canada and Malaysia, which is further being strengthened through the implementation of Canada’s Indo-Pacific Strategy. They welcomed co-operation on a variety of issues, including bolstering trade and investment, deepening defence partnerships, strengthening democratic institutions, and protecting cybersecurity. The leaders also highlighted recent examples of this mutually beneficial co-operation, including this year’s Team Canada Trade Mission to Malaysia and the opening of BlackBerry’s Cybersecurity Centre of Excellence in Malaysia, in March.

    Prime Minister Trudeau and Prime Minister Anwar discussed their interest in expanding co-operation on energy security and renewables.

    The leaders exchanged views on pressing geopolitical issues. They discussed the impact that multiple crises around the world are having on social cohesion and agreed to work together to explore ways to manage their effects.

    Prime Minister Trudeau and Prime Minister Anwar agreed to stay in close contact and looked forward to ongoing collaboration.

    Associated Links

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cotton to Rosenworcel: Rushed Approval of Soros Fund Management-Audacy Deal Raises Questions

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Arkansas Tom Cotton

    Washington, D.C. — Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) today wrote a letter to Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) Chairwomen Jessica Rosenworcel concerning the purchase of more than 200 radio stations by Soros Fund Management (SFM). The rushed approval of SFM’s purchase of Audacy raises concerns about the FCC’s process, its impartiality, and the risks to our national security. 

    In part, Senator Cotton wrote:

    “The FCC’s approval process for large acquisitions of radio stations generally takes a year or more to complete and is subject to a national-security review if foreign-company ownership exceeds 25 percent. In this case, however, the FCC reportedly attempted to approve the SFM transaction with only 48 hours’ notice. Reports also indicate that no other commissioners aside from you were invited to opine on the issue before staff handled it on the Commission’s behalf. Moreover, SFM requested to bypass the traditional national-security review, despite raising $400 million for the purchase with foreign investments.”

    Full text of the letter may be found here and below.

    October 10, 2024

    Jessica Rosenworcel
     Chairwoman
     Federal Communications Commission
     45 L Street NE
    Washington, DC 20554
    Dear Chairwoman Rosenworcel,

    I write regarding the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) decision to expedite Soros Fund Management’s (SFM) purchase of more than two hundred radio stations just weeks before a critical presidential election.

    The FCC’s approval process for large acquisitions of radio stations generally takes a year or more to complete and is subject to a national-security review if foreign-company ownership exceeds 25 percent. In this case, however, the FCC reportedly attempted to approve the SFM transaction with only 48 hours’ notice. Reports also indicate that no other commissioners aside from you were invited to opine on the issue before staff handled it on the Commission’s behalf. Moreover, SFM requested to bypass the traditional national-security review, despite raising $400 million for the purchase with foreign investments.

    This decision affects over 165 million monthly listeners on Audacy—a network that includes conservative programming like Sean Hannity, Dana Loesch, Mark Levin, Glenn Beck, and Erick Erickson. It would be naive to think the timing is coincidental, or that a Soros-funded network would impartially manage conservative talk shows in the weeks before the election. The FCC’s rushed approval of SFM’s purchase raises significant concerns about the FCC’s process, its political impartiality, and the risks to our national security.

    I urge the FCC to use its traditional process outlined by Section 310 of the Communications Act. Accordingly, please respond to the below questions by ___

    1. Under existing FCC rules, foreign-company ownership of U.S. radio stations should not exceed 25 percent. Did SFM request to bypass the national-security evaluation? If so, did you approve it?
    2. What other exceptions to the existing rule regarding foreign-ownership of U.S. radio stations have occurred during your tenure as Chairwoman?
    3. Who was invited to opine on SFM’s purchase of Audacy?
    4. What efforts were made to undergo a legitimate public-interest analysis?

    Sincerely,

    Tom Cotton

    U.S. Senator

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Markey Statement on Passing of Ethel Kennedy

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts Ed Markey

    Boston (October 10, 2024) – Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) released the following statement today on the passing of Ethel Kennedy.

    “I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Ethel Kennedy, a woman of true grace and grit, a dedicated matriarch, and a supportive friend. Ethel Kennedy’s generosity of spirit transcended politics, and her dedication to her family and her husband’s legacy were a driving force. 

    “When Ethel started the Robert F. Kennedy Center for Justice and Human Rights in 1968, she ensured that her husband’s life’s work would continue. She transformed her personal tragedy into a lasting legacy of public service and global leadership. Her mission will forever be felt beyond the shores of her beautiful home in Hyannis to the far reaches of the world where her fight for human rights lives on. 

    “A true force for social change in her own right, Ethel Kennedy worked to address society’s greatest injustices, fighting for equity, inclusion, compassion, and lasting change. The country has lost one of our greatest advocates for American exceptionalism, and the world has lost an irreplaceable champion of humanity. Ethel Kennedy was a woman whose vision was fueled by her boundless heart and goodwill, and she will be remembered forever. The entire Kennedy family is in my prayers.” 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Saddle up for more great tourism experiences in Nova Scotia

    Source: Government of Canada News

    ACOA supports successful events and strategic tourism plans in Truro and Amherst

    October 10, 2024 · Truro, Nova Scotia · Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA)

    Tourism is essential to Atlantic Canada. It boosts local economies and creates jobs, while promoting and showcasing the region’s vibrant cultures and communities. The Government of Canada is investing to help organizations harness tourism potential by undertaking strategic planning and hosting exciting events. 

    Stampede and hockey showcased the region while communities plan for more opportunities

    Today, the Honourable Gudie Hutchings, Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for ACOA, announced a total non-repayable contribution of $362,500 to three organizations for four tourism projects.

    This investment helped the Central Nova Scotia Civic Centre Society (operating as Central NS Sports & Entertainment) host two events in Truro, the 2023 World Junior A Hockey Challenge and the inaugural Nova Scotia Stampede. This investment will also help the Town of Truro and the Town of Amherst, in partnership with municipalities and First Nations partners, develop strategic plans to increase tourism in rural centres, promote the diverse variety of local offerings and extend the tourism season. For more information, see the attached backgrounder.

    Today’s announcement further demonstrates the Government of Canada’s commitment to help grow Atlantic Canada’s tourism sector, and showcase the region’s diverse experiences to visitors from around the world.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Backgrounder: Saddle up for more great tourism experiences in Nova Scotia

    Source: Government of Canada News

    Tourism boosts local economies, highlights unique attractions, and celebrates the region’s rich culture.

    October 10, 2024 · Truro, Nova Scotia · Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA)

    Tourism boosts local economies, highlights unique attractions, and celebrates the region’s rich culture. Today, the Government of Canada announced a total of $362,500 to three organizations for four tourism projects to help tap into tourism opportunities through strategic planning and hosting dynamic events.

    The Central Nova Scotia Civic Centre Society (operating as Central NS Sports & Entertainment) received a $150,000 non-repayable investment through ACOA’s Innovative Communities Fund (ICF) to host the four-day inaugural Nova Scotia Stampede from September 26-29, 2024 at the Provincial Exhibition Grounds in Truro. The professional rodeo featured international and national champions competing in events such as bull riding, barrel racing and saddle bronc, as well as 4H showcases, musical performances, Nova Scotian food, artisans and vendors. The week-long event sold out all rodeo events, full-day passes and VIP tickets, attracting many visitors outside of the traditional peak tourism season, and showcasing Nova Scotia’s culture and agriculture sector to an international audience. The Province of Nova Scotia provided $150,000 for this project, and the Town of Truro and Colchester County provided a combined $75,000.

    The Society also received a $100,000 non-repayable investment through ICF to host the 2023 World Junior A Challenge which took place December 10-17, 2023 at the Rath Eastlink Community Centre (RECC). The event is an under-20 international ice hockey tournament sponsored by Hockey Canada, the Canadian Junior Hockey League (CJHL) and the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF). It featured six teams from around the world, giving young players exposure to international level competition, and bringing visitors to the region outside the peak tourism season. The Province of Nova Scotia provided $100,000 for this project and the Town of Truro and Colchester County each provided $50,000.

    The Central Nova Scotia Civic Centre Society is a not-for-profit organization which operates the Rath Eastlink Community Centre and provides event management services for the Provincial Exhibition Grounds which includes the development of the inaugural Nova Scotia Stampede project.

    The Town of Truro and Municipality of the County of Colchester are receiving a non-repayable investment of $96,850 through ICF to create a strategic tourism plan for the Truro-Colchester region. The town and county, in collaboration with regional partners Millbrook First Nation and the Town of Stewiacke, will continue to engage local businesses, community organizations, industry leaders and all levels of government to play an active role in creating a long-term success plan for elevating tourism in the area. The plan will focus on developing tourism all year long by identifying potential gaps and opportunities in the market, and will be implemented over the next three to five years.

    The Truro-Colchester region is located in north central Nova Scotia and has a population of over 50,000 people. Known as the “Hub of Nova Scotia,” Truro’s central location and historic downtown make it a popular destination from which to view the famous tidal bore in the Bay of Fundy.

    The Town of Amherst is receiving a non-repayable investment of $15,250 through ACOA’s Tourism Growth Plan (TGP) to develop and implement a strategic tourism plan in Cumberland County. The plan will help the town  build on its tourism potential, improve its tourism products, and engage with the broader network of tourism stakeholders in the area. It will also conduct a Digital Footprint Analysis, to help tourism businesses improve their virtual profile and better present themselves to potential visitors online. Cumberland County provided $7,625 for this project.

    The Town of Amherst is the largest town in Cumberland County and has a population of approximately 9,500. Amherst welcomes visitors crossing the border from New Brunswick, and is a good place to explore both the rugged cliffs of the Bay of Fundy, home of the world’s highest tides, and the sandy shores and warm water of the Northumberland Shore.

    Connor Burton
    Press Secretary
    Office of the Minister of Rural Economic Development
    Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
    Connor.Burton@acoa-apeca.gc.ca

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Statement on World Day Against the Death Penalty

    Source: Government of Canada News

    The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today issued the following statement

    October 10, 2024 – Ottawa, Ontario – Global Affairs Canada

    The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today issued the following statement:

    “On this World Day Against the Death Penalty, Canada reaffirms its opposition to the death penalty in all cases, everywhere.

    “The death penalty is incompatible with human rights and human dignity. Not only is it ineffective as a deterrent to crime, but its use also carries the significant risk of innocent individuals being executed. It has also been disproportionately used against members of marginalized groups and people who oppose authoritarian regimes, including political opponents and human rights defenders.

    “Canada strongly encourages all countries to abolish the death penalty. While condemning the death penalty, Canada also calls on countries where it is still practiced to respect international safeguards and standards, including due process and fair trials.

    “We are pleased to work closely with the World Coalition Against the Death Penalty, the International Commission Against the Death Penalty and the Alliance for Torture-Free Trade, all of which aim to abolish the use of the death penalty, torture and other cruel and degrading punishments.

    “The majority of nations have abolished the death penalty, and Canada proudly stands among them. Our stance is rooted in a commitment to upholding human rights for all individuals.”

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Lebanon, Palestine, Ukraine & other topics – Daily Press Briefing | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Noon briefing by Farhan Haq, Deputy Spokesperson for the Secretary-General.

    Highlights:

    – Lebanon
    – Senior Personnel Appointment
    – Occupied Palestinian Territory
    – Lao PDR
    – Deputy Secretary-General
    – Libya
    – Sudan
    – South Sudan
    – Zambia
    – Ukraine
    – Nepal
    – Haiti
    – Senior Personnel Appointment
    – Nansen Award
    – Post Day
    – Briefings today and tomorrow

    Lebanon
    We have an update from our peacekeeping colleagues in southern Lebanon. Over the past 24 hours, the exchanges of fire between the Israel Defense Forces and Hizbullah have continued to intensify. Peacekeepers observe large-scale air strikes by Israel, mainly across southern Lebanon, concurrent with its ground activities in the areas of Marun ar-Ras, Bint Jbeil, Aytarun, Kafr Kila and Labbouneh. They have also continued to observe fire by Hizbullah towards Israel.
    The UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) has confirmed that yesterday [8 October] IDF personnel vacated their position in the vicinity of UNIFIL post UNP 6-52, although movement of IDF personnel and vehicles continues on a nearby road.
    Some UN positions have been impacted, sustaining damage from numerous incidents, including to a security camera at UNP 1-31, damage to perimeter walls, gunshots on a vehicle, and shrapnel damage to prefab accommodation. Fortunately, there are no reports of peacekeepers wounded.
    As we have been saying repeatedly, the safety and security of our peacekeepers is a paramount priority and is a shared responsibility of all parties.
    All parties must abide by their obligations under international law, including international humanitarian law.
    We also reiterate our call, both for immediate de-escalation and for the parties to return to a cessation of hostilities and the full implementation of Resolution 1701.

    Occupied Palestinian Territory
    Turning to Gaza, the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs has an update on the situation in the northern areas. In recent days, Israeli authorities once again ordered more than 400,000 people who remain north of Wadi Gaza to move south, while at the same time tightening access restrictions and expanding military operations in the north. Crossing points into northern Gaza have been largely closed for both humanitarian and commercial supplies. Checkpoints inside Gaza are only permitting civilians to move south — and allowing just a trickle of humanitarian movement into the north.
    OCHA warns that these developments are forcing services critical for people’s survival to shut down one by one. According to the UN Relief and Works Agency, seven schools sheltering displaced people are being evacuated, and only two of eight water wells in the Jabalya refugee camp remain functional.
    The north is also facing severe shortages of bread and food supplies. Explosive munitions burned down the only bakery supported by the World Food Programme in Jabalya refugee camp.
    Today, OCHA and the World Health Organization tried to reach northern Gaza to support the Kamal Adwan hospital, after Israeli authorities ordered its immediate evacuation. After receiving a green light from the Israeli authorities for the mission, the team was forced to wait at a holding point for many hours. Ultimately, the mission had to be aborted.
    Despite these challenges, aid workers are seizing any opportunity to support people in northern Gaza. UNRWA is utilizing limited stocks already in the north to distribute high-energy biscuits from WFP to children in designated shelters and delivering bread bundles to families in certain areas. Hot meals are being distributed by our partners to newly displaced families, some of whom are also receiving tents. And water is being delivered using trucks.

    Ukraine
    Turning to Ukraine, the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs says intense attacks in the south and east of the country this week have killed and injured dozens of civilians and damaged homes, a hospital and schools.
    Authorities and partners on the ground in the southern city of Kherson report that about 20 civilians – including children – were injured in attacks on Monday. At least 280 apartments in 10 buildings were also damaged.
    NGOs have mobilized emergency assistance – including first aid, food kits and shelter materials – to help families cover the damage to their homes as winter approaches.
    Aid workers continue to provide emergency support, including in Chornomorsk Town in the Odesa Region, where attacks yesterday and today injured five civilians and damaged multiple homes and a hospital. Those affected received emergency shelter kits and psychosocial support, as well as child protection and case management services.
    OCHA saus that inter-agency convoys also reached war-affected communities in the Kharkiv and Kherson regions this week, delivering essential hygiene supplies, winter clothes, blankets and charging stations.

    Full Highlights: https://www.un.org/sg/en/content/noon-briefing-highlight?date%5Bvalue%5D%5Bdate%5D=09%20October%202024

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6og5F7aYTRc

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Global: ‘Cajun Navy’ volunteers who participate in search-and-rescue operations after hurricanes are forming long-lasting organizations

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Kyle Breen, Assistant Professor of Sociology, Texas A&M International University

    Volunteers with Savage Freedoms Relief Operation coordinates aid in Swannanoa, on Oct. 7, 2024, after Hurricane Helene severely damaged the North Carolina town. Allison Joyce/AFP via Getty Images

    The volunteers who take part in search-and-rescue operations and then support disaster survivors belong to organizations that have become more formal and established over the past decade. That’s what we found after spending more than four years volunteering alongside eight of these groups to better understand their role and the motivations of the people who participate in these efforts.

    We did this research as part of a larger team of sociologists, an urban planning scholar and emergency management specialists. All of us worked alongside civilian volunteer search-and-rescue groups from Louisiana and Texas between 2017 and 2022 during and after many hurricanes, including Harvey and Laura, the winter storm known as Uri and other major disasters.

    While we volunteered with these organizations, we observed them in action and interviewed their leaders and volunteers to learn why they were making the time and taking personal risks to save others. Many cited their personal values, expressed their need to belong to a group, and said it had helped them find a sense of purpose. Others shared that they were motivated by their personal circumstances and experiences or feelings of guilt, or that this kind of volunteering gave them a deep sense of satisfaction.

    “I lost everything I owned in Katrina. They deemed my family’s property uninhabitable,” said a boater we’ll call Dylan to protect his anonymity. “I can’t sit here after knowing what it is to lose everything.”

    Some volunteers said that one reason why they have repeatedly done this work is to counter stereotypes about people who engage in these efforts. When he’s heard people say, “Oh you’re just out there, doing it for the spotlight,” said Roger, he told us he wants to respond by saying, “Yeah, dude. If you flood, call me, I’ll come get you.”

    While the organizations we researched were based in Louisiana and Texas, the volunteers who participate in these efforts come from across the U.S. and, in some cases, other countries. One volunteer we met was from the United Kingdom.

    After Hurricane Helene destroyed roads in western North Carolina, rescue squads delivered aid by donkey and helicopter.

    Why it matters

    Since Hurricane Katrina struck the Gulf Coast in 2005, volunteers have been participating in search-and-rescue efforts after big disasters – especially in that region. But these volunteers come from all over.

    Many of these groups are known as “Cajun Navy” organizations. Whether or not these organizations use the Cajun Navy branding in their names they share, a common mission of helping others in emergencies.

    These volunteers aren’t just operating boats and helicopters. Others serve as dispatchers, handle logistics, and run social media operations.

    Over time, some of the organizations have begun to team up with local emergency responders, signing memorandums of understanding with them. They partner with government agencies while assisting in disaster response and relief efforts, but they primarily operate with autonomy and are able to travel where they perceive the need is greatest.

    This kind of group tends to dissolve after a disaster is over, instead of evolving into an established nonprofit.

    But many of the eight groups we studied have become nonprofits or are in the process of doing so.

    How we do our work

    We were able to do this research by becoming volunteers ourselves. We took part in dispatch operations on the ground and remotely, and we supported logistics planning. We also observed and, in some cases, participated in search-and-rescue training and operations in the water and on land.

    The Research Brief is a short take about interesting academic work.

    Kyle Breen received funding from the National Science Foundation for this research. He currently holds funding from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada and the Canadian Institutes of Health Research for other research projects.

    J. Carlee Purdum received funding from The National Science Foundation for this research and for other ongoing projects.

    – ref. ‘Cajun Navy’ volunteers who participate in search-and-rescue operations after hurricanes are forming long-lasting organizations – https://theconversation.com/cajun-navy-volunteers-who-participate-in-search-and-rescue-operations-after-hurricanes-are-forming-long-lasting-organizations-240769

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: WATCH: Senator Reverend Warnock Discusses Faith, Family, and Service in New Episode of PBS’ “Breaking Bread with Alexander”

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock – Georgia

    WATCH: Senator Reverend Warnock Discusses Faith, Family, and Service in New Episode of PBS’ “Breaking Bread with Alexander”

    In his hometown of Savannah, Senator Reverend Warnock joined host Alexander Heffner for a discussion about his public service as a U.S. Senator for all Georgians, and how his faith and family shaped his childhood in the Coastal Empire
    Over brunch and a stroll, Senator Reverend Warnock shared his approach to making change in Washington, including the importance of bipartisanship and his work on issues top of mind for Georgians like defending our democracy and closing the health care gap
    Senator Reverend Warnock: “I think activism, and speaking, and demonstrations are part of the democratic process. We need people shaking it up on the outside, as long as they are non-violent and dignified in their approach, and we need people shaking it up on the inside”

    Above: Senator Warnock and Alexander Heffner
    Washington, D.C. – In a recently-aired episode of PBS’ Breaking Bread with Alexander, U.S. Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA) joined journalist and host Alexander Heffner in his hometown of Savannah to discuss how his family, faith, and childhood in Coastal Georgia shaped his life and continues to inform his service for all Georgians in the United States Senate. The interview, which originally aired on October 2, follows Senator Warnock and Alexander as they converse while strolling along “Raphael Warnock Way” a street named honoring the Senator just outside of his childhood home, and then as they enjoy a meal of chicken and waffles at famous Savannah restaurant Collins Quarter.
    During the episode, the Senator dived into his approach to delivering for Georgians in Washington and how he works to center people in federal policymaking, discussing the power of bipartisanship to create consensus and solve problems, how being a father shapes his leadership, and why he continues to fight on issues like health care that are top of mind to many Georgians. 
    Watch the new episode HERE.
    Read key excerpts from the interview below:
    On bipartisanship
    Senator Reverend Warnock (SRW): “I’m proud of the fact that I came to the Senate in the 117th Congress. Out of 100 senators, it was easy for me to remember where I was on the pecking order, I was number 100, the most junior senator in the Senate. Yet I managed to be listed, according to bills and work that I had done, as the 18th (now 14th) most bipartisan senator in the Senate. I’m proud of that because I won in the special election, which means Republicans knew I was going to be up again in two years for reelection and yet, I was able to get enough of them to work with me to be listed as the 18th most bipartisan senator in the Senate.
    “I think that is what our country needs, I am who I am, I believe what I believe, there are some things I’m not going to compromise on in terms of the core of my values and what I think are important – human dignity, that everybody ought to have a path to prosperity, that ours is a country that ought to embrace all of our children. And that’s my North Star, but you’ll find there are a whole range of things we can work on together.”
    On his family and ministry
    SRW: “My dad was the pastor of a small church not far from here on Gwinnett Street, but he was also a junk man. He literally took care of our family by loading old junk cars that other folk had thrown away, stacking them one on top of the other, taking them down to what was then Chattem Steel, and that’s how he took care of his family.
    “On Sunday mornings, the man who spent all week lifting broken cars, lifted broken people with his message of hope, the depth of his faith, his grit and determination of a Black man born in 1917, a World War II veteran who in one instance had to give up his seat on a bus while wearing his soldiers uniform to a young teenager.
    “His faith inspires me.
    “My mother grew up in Waycross, Georgia. She grew up in a slightly different time in the 1950s, as a teenager picking somebody else’s Tobacco, picking somebody else’s cotton.
    “The octogenarian hands that used to pick somebody else’s Tobacco, somebody else’s cotton, could pick her son to be a United States Senator. Only in America is my story possible.”
    On health care
    SRW: “I’m someone who was shaped and inspired by the civil rights and human rights tradition. In 2014, I stood up saying we need to expand Medicaid in Georgia, as part of the Affordable Care Act. We have 600,000 Georgians in the coverage gap, and who are these people? They are mostly the working poor.
    “Dr. King said ‘Of all the injustices, inequality in healthcare is the most shocking and the most inhumane’. I was part of a demonstration in front of the Governor’s office here in Georgia and I was arrested fighting for Medicaid expansion. I thought it was a small price to pay when I considered that here we had an opportunity to give poor people, working-class people access to dignity, access basic health care, preventative care, that would literally save lives. And the state leaders were digging in their heels for political purposes. And so I got arrested in the state capital in Georgia, I’ve gotten arrested in the U.S. capital, also fighting for health care, fighting to protect SNAP benefits. And I’ll continue to ring the bell on this issue, it’s so very important.”
    Alexander Heffner: “Do we need more civil disobedience in American life today?”
    SRW: “I think activism, and speaking, and demonstrations are part of the democratic process. We need people shaking it up on the outside, as long as they are non-violent and dignified in their approach, and we need people shaking it up on the inside. I’ve had my experience with both, I often say that now I’ve translated my protest into public policy, my agitation into legislation, but I will do anything within reason, that is consistent with my values if it will get people health care.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warren, Wyden, Porter Call on Treasury, IRS to Improve Direct File by Ending Reliance on ID.me, Making Identity Verification Secure and Accessible

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren
    October 09, 2024
    “[Taxpayers] should not be forced to jump through extra, onerous, hoops that private tax prep companies are not required to meet.”
    Text of Letter (PDF)
    Boston, MA – U.S. Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), a member of the Senate Finance Committee, Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Chair of the Senate Finance Committee, and Representative Katie Porter (D-Calif.) wrote to the Department of the Treasury (Treasury) and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) urging the agencies to make the Direct File tax filing program more accessible by ending reliance on ID.me, which uses a flawed facial recognition software.
    When Direct File, the first free, public, electronic federal tax filing tool in U.S. history, launched, the IRS announced that taxpayers would need to submit to identity verification through ID.me because it met the IRS’ desired level of strictness, “Identity Assurance Level 2” (IAL 2). IAL 2 is the middle of three “levels” of national identity verification standards, and requires an applicant’s face to be compared to a government ID using facial recognition software or by a human. But the facial recognition technology used by ID.me has been shown to be less accurate when dealing with vulnerable groups, including individuals of color, and has been linked to wrongful arrests of black men. This heightened identity verification is required for the Direct File service and not for commercial tax preparation services. 
    “Requiring them to use ID.me is creating yet another needless barrier to exactly these taxpayers who need Direct File most to claim tax benefits, as it has been with other government benefits,” wrote the lawmakers. 
    Private tax preparation companies are not judged against IAL standards but operate at the equivalent of a level 1 by just having users simply assert their identity.  The private tax preparation companies have also egregiously misused private taxpayer information, and Direct File allows taxpayers the option to not give their money and personal information to private companies when filing their taxes. Login.gov, a government-run identity verification alternative, is expected to be compliant with existing IAL 2 standards, making it available for the 2025 tax season. 
    The IRS’ current approach to security does not make sense. 
    “If the threat posed by identity thieves and fraudsters is severe enough to warrant requiring taxpayers to submit to identity verification…then the IRS should require such security protections, across the board, regardless of whether taxpayers use Direct File, commercial services like TurboTax and H&R Block…,” the lawmakers continued. “Alternatively, if the threat posed by identity thieves is not serious enough for the IRS to require commercial tax prep companies to implement burdensome identity verification, then taxpayers using Direct File should not be required to do so either.” 
    The 2024 Direct File pilot was a clear and resounding success, helping taxpayers claim over $90 million in tax refunds and saving taxpayers $5.6 million in estimated filing fees. The IRS recently announced that it will expand service to 24 states and over 30 million taxpayers for the 2025 tax season. In order to keep Direct File serving taxpayers effectively, the lawmakers requested answers from the Treasury and the IRS about the impact of ID.me on taxpayers’ access to Direct File and potential alternatives to ID.me by October 21, 2024. 
    Senator Warren has been at the forefront of holding tax prep firms and Big Tech accountable for their behavior, and pushed for an effective IRS direct free file program:
    In June 2023, Senators Warren and Carper and Representatives Sherman, Porter, and Beyer led a coalition of 99 Democratic lawmakers in sending a letter to Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Commissioner Daniel Werfel and Deputy Treasury Secretary Adewale Adeyemo, applauding the IRS’ announcement of a pilot  of a free tax filing tool next year. 
    In April 2023, Senators Warren and Carper led their colleagues in sending a letter to IRS Commissioner Daniel Werfel urging the agency to simplify the tax process and broaden access to free e-filing options.
    In April 2023, at a hearing of the Senate Finance Committee, Senator Warren questioned Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Commissioner Daniel Werfel about the IRS’s failed Free-File partnership with private tax preparation software companies and called on the agency to implement a direct E-File program that will be truly free and easy for millions of Americans. 
    Commission Werfel agreed with Senator Warren that the gap between the 70% of taxpayers that Free File is supposed to serve and the 2% it actually does is “massive.”  When Senator Warren pointed out that tax prep companies are instead pushing alternative services that should be free, are marketed as free, but are not, Commissioner Werfel also agreed that “the whole process needs to be improved,” that taxpayer rights have been violated, and the IRS has an obligation to make “the tax system easier for taxpayers to navigate.”

    In March 2023, Senators Warren and King wrote a letter with 19 other senators to the Internal Revenue Service and Secretary Yellen expressing strong support for Secretary Yellen’s directive for the IRS not to raise audit rates for small businesses or households making under $400,000 annually. 
    In December 2022, Senators Warren and Wyden, along with Representatives Porter and Sherman sent letters to tax preparation companies H&R Block, TaxAct, and TaxSlayer, plus big tech firms Meta, and Google, amid reports that the tax preparation companies have been secretly transmitting individual taxpayers’ sensitive financial information to Meta and Google.
    In July 2022, Senator Warren led 22 of her colleagues in introducing the Tax Filing Simplification Act of 2022 to simplify the tax filing process for millions of Americans by lowering costs, eliminating red tape for all taxpayers, and saving them hours and hundreds of dollars. 
    During an exchange of the United States Senate Finance Committee in June 2022, U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen agreed with Senator Warren on the need to create a free tax filing system that actually works for Americans.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Nokia Corporation: Repurchase of own shares on 09.10.2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Nokia Corporation
    Stock Exchange Release
    9 October 2024 at 22:30 EET

    Nokia Corporation: Repurchase of own shares on 09.10.2024

    Espoo, Finland – On 9 October 2024 Nokia Corporation (LEI: 549300A0JPRWG1KI7U06) has acquired its own shares (ISIN FI0009000681) as follows:

    Trading venue (MIC Code) Number of shares Weighted average price / share, EUR*
    XHEL 1,278,616 4.04
    CEUX 800,000 4.04
    BATE – –
    AQEU – –
    TQEX – –
    Total 2,078,616 4.04

    * Rounded to two decimals

    On 25 January 2024, Nokia announced that its Board of Directors is initiating a share buyback program to return up to EUR 600 million of cash to shareholders in tranches over a period of two years. The first phase of the share buyback program started on 20 March 2024. On 19 July 2024, Nokia decided to accelerate the share buybacks by increasing the number of shares to be repurchased during the year 2024. The post-increase repurchases in compliance with the Market Abuse Regulation (EU) 596/2014 (MAR), the Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2016/1052 and under the authorization granted by Nokia’s Annual General Meeting on 3 April 2024 started on 22 July 2024 and end by 31 December 2024 with a maximum aggregate purchase price of EUR 600 million for all purchases during 2024.

    Total cost of transactions executed on 9 October 2024 was EUR 8,397,193. After the disclosed transactions, Nokia Corporation holds 161,596,221 treasury shares.

    Details of transactions are included as an appendix to this announcement.

    On behalf of Nokia Corporation

    BofA Securities Europe SA

    About Nokia
    At Nokia, we create technology that helps the world act together.

    As a B2B technology innovation leader, we are pioneering networks that sense, think and act by leveraging our work across mobile, fixed and cloud networks. In addition, we create value with intellectual property and long-term research, led by the award-winning Nokia Bell Labs.

    Service providers, enterprises and partners worldwide trust Nokia to deliver secure, reliable and sustainable networks today – and work with us to create the digital services and applications of the future.

    Inquiries:

    Nokia Communications
    Phone: +358 10 448 4900
    Email: press.services@nokia.com
    Maria Vaismaa, Global Head of External Communications

    Nokia Investor Relations
    Phone: +358 40 803 4080
    Email: investor.relations@nokia.com

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Brown Secures New Investment To Replace Lead Service Lines In Youngstown

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Ohio Sherrod Brown
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown (D-OH) announced a new investment to replace lead service lines in Youngstown. Brown advocated for this much-needed investment, which will result in the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency awarding $1.2 million to the City of Youngstown for its Lead Service Line Replacement Program.
    “Families shouldn’t have to worry about whether or not the water coming out of the faucet is safe for their children to drink,” said Brown. “I fought for this investment so that the City of Youngstown can replace old lead pipes, creating jobs while ensuring that Ohioans in the Valley have access to safe and reliable drinking water.”
    Brown secured this investment in the 2024 government funding law, which provides key funding for water infrastructure projects. These investments complement the resources allocated by Congress in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which Brown helped write and pass.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Brown Convenes Tax Professionals for Free, One Day Tax Clinic to Assist East Palestine Residents Filing Amended Returns

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Ohio Sherrod Brown
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown announced that East Palestine residents who received reimbursements from Norfolk Southern in the aftermath of the February 3, 2023 train derailment will be able to take advantage of a free, one-day tax clinic where Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Certified Volunteers will help residents complete amended returns so that they don’t pay taxes on their reimbursements.
    Brown aggressively and successfully pushed the IRS and Treasury Department to make tax exempt most payments and reimbursements received from Norfolk Southern.
    The IRS is requiring East Palestine residents to file amended returns to ensure that they are not taxed on any assistance received from Norfolk Southern.
    “It was important to take on the IRS and ensure that East Palestine residents did not have to pay tax on assistance they received from Norfolk Southern,” said Brown. “Now, we want to make sure they do not have to pay a tax service to file the amended tax return that they shouldn’t have had to file in the first place. Our office is glad to bring together these community organizations to make this happen.”
    Details of the one-day tax clinic hosted by Brown’s office are below. Brown’s office partnered with The Way Station, The Village of East Palestine, United Way Youngstown and the Mahoning Valley, Catholic Charities Regional Agency, and the United Way of Summit & Medina.
    Date: Friday, October 11, 2024
    Time: 9AM-5PM
    Location: First Church of Christ, 20 W Martin St, East Palestine, OH 44413
    Call 330.540.1947 or 330.610.3805 to schedule an appointment.
    Appointments must be scheduled in advance.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: Readout of Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Lisa Franchetti’s Meeting Inspector of the German Navy Vice Adm. Jan Christian Kaack

    Source: United States Navy

    VENICE, Italy – Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Lisa Franchetti met Inspector of the German Navy Vice Adm. Jan Christian Kaack, for a formal bilateral engagement during the 14th Trans-Regional Seapower Symposium (TRSS) in Venice, Italy, today.

    The heads of navy discussed the security environment in Europe and the Middle East, as well as opportunities to increase their interchangeability through bilateral and multilateral operations in the Indo-Pacific.

    Franchetti thanked Kaack for the German Navy’s deployment to the Indo-Pacific and expanded participation in this year’s Rim of the Pacific Exercise. The leaders noted that the many lessons learned through their shared experience will make both of their navies more ready to operate together globally in the future.

    Franchetti and Kaack also discussed the CNO’s recently-released strategic guidance: the Navigation Plan for America’s Warfighting Navy and the similarities with the “German Navy Objectives for 2035 and beyond,” notably on the need to prioritize operationally integrating robotic and autonomous systems.

    Germany is a key NATO ally and critical partner in maintaining peace and stability around the globe.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: Readout of Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Lisa Franchetti’s Meeting with Chief of the Hellenic Navy General Staff Vice Adm. Dimitrios-Eleftherios Kataras

    Source: United States Navy

    VENICE, Italy – Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Lisa Franchetti met Chief of the Hellenic Navy General Staff Vice Adm. Dimitrios-Eleftherios Kataras for a formal bilateral engagement during the 14th Trans-Regional Seapower Symposium in Venice, Italy, today.

    The two leaders discussed strengthening their naval partnership through increased interoperability and future maritime cooperation deployments, and the importance of Greece’s contributions to the NATO alliance.

    Franchetti thanked Kataras for Greece’s leadership in the Red Sea through operation Aspides, which they noted effectively cooperates with Operation Prosperity Guardian, as they work together to defend the rules-based international order and protect the free-flow of commerce. She also thanked him for their integration with the USS Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group while in the Eastern Mediterranean earlier this year.

    Franchetti and Kataras discussed the CNO’s recently-released strategic guidance: the Navigation Plan for America’s Warfighting Navy, and their mutual focus on the priorities of Warfighting, Warfighters and the Foundation. They also discussed initiatives to support recruiting and retention, as well as future Professional Military Exchange opportunities.

    As NATO allies, the United States and Greece enjoy a long-standing friendship and partnership rooted in shared democratic values and strong cultural ties.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: FBI San Francisco Releases Local Data from 2023 Cryptocurrency Fraud Report

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime News

    With Cybersecurity Awareness Month in full swing, the FBI urges the public to stay vigilant

    The FBI’s 2023 Cryptocurrency Fraud Report reveals that California experienced the highest cryptocurrency-related losses in the nation, totaling $1.15 billion. Within the FBI San Francisco Field Office’s territory, losses amounted to $260,313,902, with 1,226 victims across 15 counties, including Alameda, San Francisco, and Santa Clara. Nationally, the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center received more than 69,000 complaints from the public regarding cyber-enabled crime and financial fraud involving the use of cryptocurrency, with over $5.6 billion in reported losses.

    Criminal actors exploit cryptocurrencies for all schemes, to include tech support, confidence and romance, investment and government impersonation scams. Investment fraud was the most reported cryptocurrency scheme in 2023, and also saw the most reported losses, with about $3.9 billion lost.

    “Cryptocurrency’s rapid adoption has made it a prime target for fraudsters,” said Special Agent in Charge Robert Tripp. “We urge the public to stay vigilant and to report any suspected fraud to the FBI through the Internet Crime Complaint Center at ic3.gov.”

    FBI San Francisco encourages the public to submit reports of fraud, or suspected fraud, through ic3.gov, even if a financial loss did not occur.

    Below are some tips to protect yourself from cryptocurrency schemes:

    • Criminals will seek to instill a sense of urgency and isolation.
    • When receiving an unsolicited call by an unknown caller claiming to work for a well-known company or government agency, hang up, independently research the company or agency’s publicly published phone number and call it to confirm authenticity of the original call.
    • No legitimate law enforcement or government official will call to demand payment via a cryptocurrency kiosk.
    • Never give personally identifying information to anyone without verifying the person is who they say they are.
    • Verify the validity of any investment opportunity strangers or long-lost contacts offer on social media websites. If you have never met an individual in real life, be very cautious of accepting investment advice or opportunities.
    • Be on the lookout for domain or website names that impersonate legitimate financial institutions, especially cryptocurrency exchanges.
    • Fraudulent businesses often use website addresses that mimic real financial institutions, but are often slightly different, to convince people the fraudulent website is legitimate.
    • Do not download or use suspicious-looking apps as a tool for investing unless you can verify the legitimacy of the app.
    • If an investment opportunity sounds too good to be true, it likely is. Be cautious of get-rich-quick schemes.

    If you believe you are a victim of fraud or someone you know—regardless of financial loss—and you are not under imminent threat, please report the fraud to FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at ic3.gov or call FBI San Francisco at (415) 553-7400.

    View the full 2023 Cryptocurrency Fraud Report. 

    For more information or media inquiries, email Media.sf@fbi.gov.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Federal Disaster Assistance for Connecticut Tops $6 Million

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Federal Disaster Assistance for Connecticut Tops $6 Million

    Federal Disaster Assistance for Connecticut Tops $6 Million

    Two weeks after President Joseph R. Biden declared a major disaster for the state of Connecticut following the August 18-19, 2024 severe storm, flooding, landslides and mudslides, more than $6 million in federal assistance has been provided by FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) to support disaster recovery. 

    Homeowners and renters whose homes and property were damaged by the storm, and who still need to apply for federal assistance, have until November 19, 2024, to do so.

    As of October 8, Connecticut’s recovery assistance includes:

    • More than $5 million in FEMA’s Individual and Households Program (IHP) grants awarded to eligible homeowners and renters in three Connecticut counties. These grants help pay for uninsured and underinsured losses and storm-related damage, including:
      • More than $3.9 million in FEMA housing grants to help pay for home repair, home replacement and rental assistance for temporary housing.
      • More than $1.1 million in Other Needs Assistance grants to help pay for personal property replacement and other serious storm-related needs—such as moving and storage fees, transportation, childcare, and medical and dental expenses.
      • More than $1 million in long-term, low-interest disaster loans has been approved by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) for homeowners and renters to help repair, rebuild or replace disaster-damaged physical property and to cover economic injury for businesses of all sizes and non-profit organizations.

    The three Connecticut counties designated for FEMA assistance in this disaster are: Fairfield, Litchfield, and New Haven. 

    FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) teams have been visiting storm-affected neighborhoods in the designated counties to help residents apply for FEMA assistance, identify and address immediate needs, and make referrals to other local, state and voluntary agencies for additional support. To date, DSA personnel have visited more than 8,803 households and 697 businesses to connect survivors with assistance.

    In addition to FEMA’s $5 Million in grants and SBA’s $1 Million in loans, the National Flood Insurance Program has also helped survivors whose homes were affected by the disaster, paying more than $2.4 million in claims to policy holders for flood damage related to the storm.

    FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs) have been opened in Fairfield and New Haven counties to provide one-on-one support to survivors. At the centers, recovery specialists from FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration provide information on available services, explain assistance programs, and help survivors complete or check the status of their applications for assistance. A FEMA Hazard Mitigation Community Education Outreach Specialist will also be on site to assist survivors in preparing for future incidents. No appointment is necessary to visit a Disaster Recovery Center. Walk-ins are welcome.

    The DRC in Fairfield County is located at: 

    Our Lady of Fatima Church

    229 Danbury Road 

    Wilton, CT 06897 

    The DRC in New Haven County is located at: 

    Southbury Town Hall

    501 Main Street S

    Southbury, CT 06488 

    Operating Hours: 

    Monday – Friday: 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. 

    Saturday: 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

    Sunday: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. 

    Note: Open on the holiday – Monday, October 14

    To apply for FEMA assistance without visiting a center, go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, download the FEMA mobile app or call the FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-3362. If you use a relay service such as video relay service, captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service when you apply.

    adrien.urbani

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: 420 Years Ago: Astronomer Johannes Kepler Observes a Supernova

    Source: NASA

    In October 1604, a new star appeared in the sky, puzzling astronomers of the day. First observed on Oct. 9, German astronomer Johannes Kepler (1571-1630) began his observations on Oct. 17 and tracked the new star for over a year. During that time, it brightened to magnitude -2.5, outshining Jupiter, and for several weeks remained visible in the daytime. Publication of his detailed observations in 1606 led astronomers to call the star Kepler’s Supernova, today formally designated as supernova SN 1604. Astronomers of the day did not know what caused the star’s sudden appearance and eventual disappearance, but the phenomenon helped shape European cosmology toward the heliocentric model proposed by Polish astronomer Nicolaus Copernicus half a century earlier. Today, astronomers designate SN 1604 as a Type Ia supernova, resulting from the explosion of a white dwarf star, and use ground-based and space-based telescopes to study its remnants.
    Left: Portrait of Johannes Kepler by August Köhler. Middle: Kepler’s book about his observations of the 1604 supernova open to the page depicting the location of the new star. Right: Closeup of Kepler’s illustration of the location of the new star, designated N, in the constellation Ophiuchus near the right foot of the serpent-bearer.
    Italian astronomer Lodovico delle Colombo first observed the supernova in the constellation Ophiuchus on Oct. 9. Kepler, then working in Prague, heard rumors of the new star but did not observe it until Oct. 17. He continued to monitor the star for over a year, inspired by the earlier work of Danish astronomer Tycho Brahe’s observations of a similar phenomenon, the 1572 supernova. The new star quickly brightened to magnitude -2.5, outshining Jupiter, and for three weeks could be seen in the daytime before finally fading into obscurity in March 1606. Kepler could only make naked eye observations, since Italian astronomer Galileo Galilei didn’t turn his newly invented telescope to the skies for another four years after SN 1604 faded from view.
    Later in 1606, Kepler summarized his observations in his book De Stella nova in pede Serpentarii (On the New Star in Ophiuchus’ Foot), published in Prague. SN 1604 is believed to be about 20,000 light years away, near the edge of a dark nebula complex. Kepler and his contemporaries observed not only the last known supernova to occur in the Milky Way Galaxy but also the last supernova visible to the naked eye until 1987. That one, Supernova 1987A, appeared in the Large Magellanic Cloud, a small satellite galaxy of the Milky Way.
    A Type Ia supernova results from a white dwarf drawing in material from a nearby red giant star, the additional mass leading to a runaway thermonuclear explosion.
    Astronomers today understand that what Kepler and others believed as the birth of a new star actually represented the violent death of a star. Astronomers today classify supernovas according to their characteristics, and SN 1604 belongs to the group known as Type Ia supernovas, typically found in binary star systems composed of a white dwarf and a red giant. The gravitation force of the white dwarf draws in material from its larger less dense companion until it reaches a critical mass, around 1.4 times the mass of our Sun. At that point, a runaway thermonuclear chain reaction begins, causing a release of tremendous amounts of energy, including light, that we see as a sudden brightening of an otherwise dim star.
    Images of Kepler’s supernova remnants in different portions of the electromagnetic spectrum. Left: X-ray image from the Chandra X-ray Observatory. Middle: Visible image from the Hubble Space Telescope. Right: Infrared image from the Spitzer Space Telescope.
    Supernova explosions leave remnants behind and those of SN 1604 remain visible today. Ground-based and space-based instruments using different parts of the electromagnetic spectrum study these remnants to gain a better understanding of their origins. The remnants of SN 1604 emit energy most strongly in the radio and X-ray parts of the electromagnetic spectrum. In recent years, astronomers have used Type Ia supernovas to determine the rate of expansion of the universe. Because Type Ia supernovas all occur in stars of about 1.4 solar masses, they give out about the same amount of light. This makes them useful as distance indicators – if one Type Ia supernova is dimmer than another one, it is further away by an amount that astronomers can calculate. Based on this information, astronomers believe that the expansion of the universe is accelerating, possibly caused by the presence of a mysterious substance called dark energy.
    Events in world history in 1604:
    January 1 – First performance of William Shakespeare’s play A Midsummer’s Night’s Dream.
    March 22 – Karl IX begins his rule as King of Sweden.
    August 5 – Sokolluzade Mehmed Pasha becomes the new Ottoman Grand Vizier in Constantinople.
    August 18 – England and Spain sign the Treaty of London, ending their 20-year war.
    September 1 – Sri Guru Granth Sahib, Sikhism’s religious text, is installed at Hamandir Sahib in Amritsar, India.
    October 4 – Emperor of Ethiopia Za Dengel is killed in battle with the forces of Za Sellase, who restores his cousin Yaqob to the throne.
    November 1 – First performance of William Shakespeare’s tragedy Othello.
    December 29 – A magnitude 8.1 earthquake shakes the Taiwan Strait causing significant damage.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NASA’s Hubble, New Horizons Team Up for a Simultaneous Look at Uranus

    Source: NASA

    6 min read

    Download this image

    NASA’s Hubble Space Telescope and New Horizons spacecraft simultaneously set their sights on Uranus recently, allowing scientists to make a direct comparison of the planet from two very different viewpoints. The results inform future plans to study like types of planets around other stars.

    Astronomers used Uranus as a proxy for similar planets beyond our solar system, known as exoplanets, comparing high-resolution images from Hubble to the more-distant view from New Horizons. This combined perspective will help scientists learn more about what to expect while imaging planets around other stars with future telescopes.

    “While we expected Uranus to appear differently in each filter of the observations, we found that Uranus was actually dimmer than predicted in the New Horizons data taken from a different viewpoint,” said lead author Samantha Hasler of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in Cambridge and New Horizons science team collaborator.

    In this image, two three-dimensional shapes (top) of Uranus are compared to the actual views of the planet from NASA’s Hubble Space Telescope (bottom left) and NASA’s New Horizon’s spacecraft (bottom right). Comparing high-resolution images from Hubble to the smaller view from New Horizons offers a combined perspective that will help researchers learn more about what to expect while imaging planets around other stars with future observatories.
    NASA, ESA, STScI, Samantha Hasler (MIT), Amy Simon (NASA-GSFC), New Horizons Planetary Science Theme Team; Image Processing: Joseph DePasquale (STScI), Joseph Olmsted (STScI)

    Download this image

    Direct imaging of exoplanets is a key technique for learning about their potential habitability, and offers new clues to the origin and formation of our own solar system. Astronomers use both direct imaging and spectroscopy to collect light from the observed planet and compare its brightness at different wavelengths. However, imaging exoplanets is a notoriously difficult process because they’re so far away. Their images are mere pinpoints and so are not as detailed as the close-up views that we have of worlds orbiting our Sun. Researchers can also only directly image exoplanets at “partial phases,” when only a portion of the planet is illuminated by their star as seen from Earth.

    Uranus was an ideal target as a test for understanding future distant observations of exoplanets by other telescopes for a few reasons. First, many known exoplanets are also gas giants similar in nature. Also, at the time of the observations, New Horizons was on the far side of Uranus, 6.5 billion miles away, allowing its twilight crescent to be studied—something that cannot be done from Earth. At that distance, the New Horizons view of the planet was just several pixels in its color camera, called the Multispectral Visible Imaging Camera.

    On the other hand, Hubble, with its high resolution, and in its low-Earth orbit 1.7 billion miles away from Uranus, was able to see atmospheric features such as clouds and storms on the day side of the gaseous world.

    “Uranus appears as just a small dot on the New Horizons observations, similar to the dots seen of directly-imaged exoplanets from observatories like Webb or ground-based observatories,” added Hasler. “Hubble provides context for what the atmosphere is doing when it was observed with New Horizons.”

    The gas giant planets in our solar system have dynamic and variable atmospheres with changing cloud cover. How common is this among exoplanets? By knowing the details of what the clouds on Uranus looked like from Hubble, researchers are able to verify what is interpreted from the New Horizons data. In the case of Uranus, both Hubble and New Horizons saw that the brightness did not vary as the planet rotated, which indicates that the cloud features were not changing with the planet’s rotation.

    However, the importance of the detection by New Horizons has to do with how the planet reflects light at a different phase than what Hubble, or other observatories on or near Earth, can see. New Horizons showed that exoplanets may be dimmer than predicted at partial and high phase angles, and that the atmosphere reflects light differently at partial phase.

    NASA has two major upcoming observatories in the works to advance studies of exoplanet atmospheres and potential habitability.

    “These landmark New Horizons studies of Uranus from a vantage point unobservable by any other means add to the mission’s treasure trove of new scientific knowledge, and have, like many other datasets obtained in the mission, yielded surprising new insights into the worlds of our solar system,” added New Horizons principal investigator Alan Stern of the Southwest Research Institute.

    This illustration shows NASA’s New Horizons spacecraft’s view of our solar system from deep in the Kuiper Belt. New Horizons is currently at an estimated distance of more than 5 billion miles from Earth. The probe was 6.5 billion miles away from Uranus when it recently observed the planet. In this study, researchers used the gas giant as an exoplanet proxy, comparing high-resolution images from NASA’s Hubble Space Telescope to the smaller view from New Horizons to learn more about what to expect while imaging planets around other stars.
    NASA, ESA, Christian Nieves (STScI), Ralf Crawford (STScI), Greg Bacon (STScI)

    Download this image

    NASA’s upcoming Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope, set to launch by 2027, will use a coronagraph to block out a star’s light to directly see gas giant exoplanets. NASA’s Habitable Worlds Observatory, in an early planning phase, will be the first telescope designed specifically to search for atmospheric biosignatures on Earth-sized, rocky planets orbiting other stars.

    “Studying how known benchmarks like Uranus appear in distant imaging can help us have more robust expectations when preparing for these future missions,” concluded Hasler. “And that will be critical to our success.”

    Launched in January 2006, New Horizons made the historic flyby of Pluto and its moons in July 2015, before giving humankind its first close-up look at one of these planetary building block and Kuiper Belt object, Arrokoth, in January 2019. New Horizons is now in its second extended mission, studying distant Kuiper Belt objects, characterizing the outer heliosphere of the Sun, and making important astrophysical observations from its unmatched vantage point in distant regions of the solar system.

    The Uranus results are being presented this week at the 56th annual meeting of the American Astronomical Society Division for Planetary Sciences, in Boise, Idaho.

    The Hubble Space Telescope has been operating for over three decades and continues to make ground-breaking discoveries that shape our fundamental understanding of the universe. Hubble is a project of international cooperation between NASA and ESA (European Space Agency). NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland, manages the telescope and mission operations. Lockheed Martin Space, based in Denver, Colorado, also supports mission operations at Goddard. The Space Telescope Science Institute in Baltimore, Maryland, which is operated by the Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy, conducts Hubble science operations for NASA.

    The Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) in Laurel, Maryland, built and operates the New Horizons spacecraft and manages the mission for NASA’s Science Mission Directorate. Southwest Research Institute, based in San Antonio and Boulder, Colorado, directs the mission via Principal Investigator Alan Stern and leads the science team, payload operations and encounter science planning. New Horizons is part of NASA’s New Frontiers program, managed by NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Alabama.

    Media Contacts:

    Claire AndreoliNASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center, Greenbelt, MDclaire.andreoli@nasa.gov

    Hannah Braun, Ray VillardSpace Telescope Science Institute, Baltimore, MD

    Science Contacts:

    Samantha HaslerMassachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Google DeepMind’s Demis Hassabis & John Jumper awarded Nobel Prize in Chemistry

    Source: Google

    This post originally appeared on the Google DeepMind Blog.

    This morning, Co-founder and CEO of Google DeepMind and Isomorphic Labs Sir Demis Hassabis, and Google DeepMind Director Dr. John Jumper were co-awarded the 2024 Nobel Prize in Chemistry for their work developing AlphaFold, a groundbreaking AI system that predicts the 3D structure of proteins from their amino acid sequences. David Baker was also co-awarded for his work on computational protein design.

    Before AlphaFold, predicting the structure of a protein was a complex and time-consuming process.

    AlphaFold’s predictions, made freely available through the AlphaFold Protein Structure Database, have given more than 2 million scientists and researchers from 190 countries a powerful tool for making new discoveries. The AlphaFold 2 paper, published in 2021, remains one of the most-cited publications of all time.

    AlphaFold’s contributions to science have been widely praised, and among its recognitions are the 2023 Albert Lasker Basic Medical Research Award, the 2023 Breakthrough Prize in Life Sciences, the 2023 Canada Gairdner International Award, the 2024 Clarivate Citation Laureate award, and the 2024 Keio Medical Science Prize Award.

    Artificial Intelligence (AI) has long shown incredible potential for use in scientific research, and AlphaFold was proof-of-concept. As more scientists adopt AI for use in everything from building data, to simulating experiments, drug design, modelling complexity, discovering novel solutions for extant problems, and building upon existing knowledge, we will continue to see foundational scientific breakthroughs in the years ahead.

    In a statement released after informed of the news, Demis Hassabis said:

    “Receiving the Nobel Prize is the honour of a lifetime. Thank you to the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences, to John Jumper and the AlphaFold team, the wider DeepMind and Google teams, and to all my colleagues past and present that made this moment possible. I’ve dedicated my career to advancing AI because of its unparalleled potential to improve the lives of billions of people. AlphaFold has already been used by more than two million researchers to advance critical work, from enzyme design to drug discovery. I hope we’ll look back on AlphaFold as the first proof point of AI’s incredible potential to accelerate scientific discovery.”

    After receiving the news that he won the Nobel Prize, John Jumper released the following statement:

    “Thank you to the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences for this extraordinary honor. We are so honored to be recognized for delivering on the long promise of computational biology to help us understand the protein world and to inform the incredible work of experimental biologists. It is a key demonstration that AI will make science faster and ultimately help to understand disease and develop therapeutics. This is the work of an exceptional team at Google DeepMind and this award recognizes their amazing work.

    Computational biology has long held tremendous promise for creating practical insights that could be put to use in real-world experiments. AlphaFold delivered on this promise. Ahead of us are a universe of new insights and scientific discoveries made possible by the use of AI as a scientific tool. Thank you to my colleagues over the years, for making possible this moment of recognition, as well as the many moments of discovery that lie ahead.”

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Life-saving Medicare Advantage Prior Authorization Bill Reaches Critical Milestone in House

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Suzan DelBene (1st District of Washington)

    Today, U.S. Representatives Suzan DelBene (WA-01), Mike Kelly (PA-16), Ami Bera, M.D. (CA-06), and Larry Bucshon, M.D. (IN-08) released the following statement after securing the support of a bipartisan majority for the Improving Seniors’ Timely Access to Care Act (H.R. 8702) with over 218 cosponsors in the U.S. House of Representatives. The legislation would improve care for seniors by streamlining and standardizing the way Medicare Advantage (MA) plans use prior authorization and increasing oversight and transparency.

    “With over 33 million Americans enrolled in Medicare Advantage, modernization of the prior authorization process is long overdue. Lawmakers on both sides of the aisle, hundreds of health care organizations, and Americans from all corners of the country agree – streamlining this process will allow our Nation’s seniors to receive the care they are entitled to more efficiently. As champions of this legislation, we are grateful to our bipartisan majority of House colleagues for their support and look forward to working with them to get this critical bill signed into law.”

    BACKGROUND

    Prior authorization is a tool used by health plans to reduce unnecessary care by requiring health care providers to get pre-approval for medical services. However, the current system often results in unconfirmed faxes of a patient’s medical information or phone calls by clinicians which take precious time away from delivering quality and timely care. Prior authorization continues to be the number one administrative burden identified by health care providers, and three out of four Medicare Advantage enrollees are subject to unnecessary delays due to prior authorization. In recent years, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) raised concerns after an audit revealed that Medicare Advantage plans ultimately approved 75% of requests that were originally denied. More recently, HHS released a report finding that MA plans incorrectly denied beneficiaries’ access to services even though they met Medicare coverage rules.

    Health plans, health care providers, and patients agree that the prior authorization process must be improved to better serve patients and reduce unnecessary administrative burdens for clinicians. Additionally, leading health care organizations released a consensus statement to address some of the most pressing concerns associated with prior authorization.

    Specifically, the bill would:

    • Establish an electronic prior authorization process for MA plans including standardization for transactions and clinical attachments.
    • Increase transparency around MA prior authorization requirements and its use.
    • Clarify CMS’ authority to establish timeframes for electronic prior authorization requests including expedited determinations, real-time decisions for routinely approved items and services, and other prior authorization requests.
    • Expand beneficiary protections to improve enrollee experiences and outcomes.
    • Require HHS and other agencies to report to Congress on program integrity efforts and other ways to further improve the electronic prior authorization process.

    The Improving Seniors’ Timely Access to Care Act unanimously passed the House in the 117th Congress and was cosponsored by a majority of members in the Senate and House of Representatives. 

    This bill is supported by over 440 national and state organizations representing patients, physicians, MA plans, hospitals, and other key stakeholders in the health care industry. To see the list, click here.

    The full text of the legislation can be found here. A section-by-section summary can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Roy, Weber demand action from Biden-Harris admin to prevent non-citizens on voter rolls

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Chip Roy (R-TX)

    Washington, D.C. – On Wednesday, Representatives Chip Roy (TX-21) and Randy Weber (TX-14) led a group of Texas lawmakers in calling on the Biden-Harris administration to immediately provide the necessary data to protect the integrity of Texas elections and ensure only U.S. citizens are registered to vote in the state of Texas.

    Governor Greg Abbott recently announced the removal of 6,500 potential noncitizens from Texas voter rolls, highlighting the critical need for further verification before the upcoming election. The federal government has thus far failed to comply with an urgent request made by the State of Texas for access to USCIS data, which is crucial in verifying voter eligibility.

    Representative Roy said, “Texas has a duty to prevent noncitizens from voting. The Biden-Harris administration is trying to prevent that for the same reason they fought the SAVE Act (H.R. 8281): they want noncitizens — especially illegal aliens — to vote.

    Public confidence in elections is a necessary cornerstone of any representative government. That confidence must be earned through diligence and transparency.”

    “The refusal to provide the State of Texas with vital information that should be readily accessible is nothing short of a dereliction of duty. The Harris-Biden administration is willfully turning a blind eye as noncitizens potentially influence our elections,”said Representative Weber.“If federal law prohibits noncitizens from voting, then why are they sitting idly by instead of handing over the information that would ensure Texas can maintain clean voter rolls? It’s really quite simple: they should be doing their job. My Texas Republican colleagues and I are demanding that they release the voter rolls requested by the Texas Secretary of State without further delay.”

    Other Texas Republicans who signed the letter include Lance Gooden (TX-5), John Carter (TX-31), Brian Babin (TX-36), Keith Self (TX-3), August Pfluger (TX-11), Pete Sessions (TX-17), Ronny Jackson (TX-13), Morgan Luttrell (TX-8), Troy Nehls (TX-22), Wesley Hunt (TX-38), Beth Van Duyne (TX-24), and Pat Fallon (TX-4).

    Read the full letter here.

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    MIL OSI USA News –