NewzIntel.com

Blog

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kennedy, Ernst introduce resolution condemning Hamas attack on one year anniversary of Oct. 7

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator John Kennedy (Louisiana)
    MADISONVILLE, La. – Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.) today joined Sen. Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) and 47 colleagues in introducing a resolution condemning Hamas for its Oct. 7, 2023 attack on Israel. Hamas took the lives of nearly 1,200 people, including more than 40 U.S. citizens, and abducted at least 251 individuals as hostages.
    “The world will never forget how Hamas terrorists slaughtered roughly 1,200 people in Israel—including Americans—in a single day. One year later, U.S. citizens remain in captivity in Gaza, suffering at the hands of evil men with black hearts. Pres. Biden and Vice Pres. Harris have the duty and obligation to fully condemn Iran’s proxy militants, support Israel’s right to defend itself and bring American hostages home quickly,” said Kennedy.
    Last month, Hamas took the life of Israeli-American hostage Hersh Goldberg-Polin. Hamas is also reportedly holding hostage Keith Siegel, Sagui Dekel-Chen, Edan Alexander, Omer Neutra, and the bodies of three other Americans, Itay Chen, Judith Weinstein and Gadi Haggai, in Gaza.
    “This time last year, I woke up in the Middle East to the unbearable news that Israel was under attack by Iran-backed terrorists and Americans were being killed and taken hostage. I immediately traveled into Israel to show that our nation’s friendship is unwavering, in good times and bad. Regardless of whether I have been in Jerusalem, Washington, or Iowa, I have worked around the clock to hold the White House accountable to its ‘ironclad’ commitment, bring our hostages home, and cut off the source of terrorism in Tehran. One year since that day, as Israel remains under attack on all fronts, Senate Republicans stand united with our greatest ally in the Middle East,” said Ernst. 
    The senators’ resolution:
    Condemns Iran-backed Hamas for its brutal attacks on Israel, for killing and taking hostage U.S. citizens, for using rape as a weapon of war and for its inhumane treatment, torture and killing of hostages.
    Condemns the destructive and antisemitic protests in which protestors damaged property, tore down flags and burned and replaced them with Hamas flags while threatening Jewish Americans.
    Supports an outcome that will ensure the survival of Israel, destroy Hamas’s ability to reconstitute any leadership role in the region and safely release and return all American hostages.
    Background: 
    In Sept., Kennedy issued a statement against the Palestinian Authority’s anti-Israel resolution at the U.N. General Assembly.
    In Aug., Kennedy urged the Biden-Harris administration to reverse its pause on weapons transfers to Israel.
    In July, Kennedy issued a statement after attending Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s address to Congress.
    In May, Kennedy helped introduce the Israel Security Assistance Support Act to condemn the Biden-Harris administration’s pause on arms transfers to Israel and require the administration to reverse its pause.
    In May, Kennedy helped introduced a resolution condemning the Biden-Harris administration’s decision to halt the shipment of American-made ammunition and weapons to Israel. 
    In May, Kennedy also helped introduce a bipartisan resolution to reject the International Criminal Court prosecutor’s application for arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant. 
    In April, Kennedy urged the Biden-Harris Justice Department to protect students from antisemitic mobs on their university campuses.
    In Dec. 2023, Kennedy spoke on the Senate floor, urging the Biden-Harris administration to continue to support Israel until it successfully destroys Hamas.
    The full resolution is available here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Marshall, Lankford Slam Biden-Harris for Using Disaster Relief Funds for Migrant Shelters

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kansas Roger Marshall
    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. joined Senator James Lankford (R-OK) in a letter to President Joe Biden calling out the Administration’s reliance on the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to address the border crisis which has diminished FEMA’s readiness for disaster relief, including hurricane response.
    “Yesterday, Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas stated: ‘We are expecting another hurricane hitting—we do not have the funds, FEMA does not have the funds, to make it through the season.’…Your Administration has spent over $650 million on FEMA’s border-related programs in FY2024. Since taking office, the Biden-Harris Administration has spent around $1.5 billion on FEMA’s border-related programs. We are concerned that your Administration’s reliance on FEMA to address the ongoing border crisis, under Vice President Harris as ‘border czar,’ has diminished FEMA’s readiness for disaster relief, including hurricane response,” the Senators wrote in the letter. 
    “FEMA’s continued entanglement in DHS’s efforts to respond to the border crisis could impact its readiness and emergency response mission. Rather than ensuring FEMA is ready to respond to hurricanes and other emergencies, FEMA has been pulled into a border crisis mission. FEMA’s mission is ‘helping people before, during, and after disasters,’ not helping DHS clean up the impact of your Administration’s reckless border policies. We are very concerned that FEMA’s role at the border has impacted its readiness and preparation efforts for Hurricane Helene and its response efforts,” the Senators continued. 
    View the letter here or by scrolling below. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Marshall Joins Ernst Resolution Standing with Israel, Condemning Iran-backed Hamas

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kansas Roger Marshall
    Washington, D.C. – On the anniversary of the October 7th terrorist attack on Israel, U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. joined a resolution sponsored by Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA) fully condemning the Iran-backed Hamas terrorist regime for its actions, supporting the forever survival of Israel, and calling for the safe release of American hostages. Every Republican senator has cosponsored this resolution. 
    Senate Republicans stand united in opposing violent antisemitic protests and Iran-backed Hamas’ use of rape as a weapon of war. The Senators also reiterate Israel’s right to defend itself and emphasize the importance of denying Hamas the ability to reconstitute in the region to ensure the horrific events of that day are never repeated. 
    “One year ago, Hamas terrorists launched an unprecedented attack on Israel, killing innocent Israelis and American citizens and taking hostages in acts of horrific violence. We will never forget those lost in the evil attacks and continue to pray for the safe return of those still held captive by Hamas. We must stand united against the forces of terror that seek to undermine democracy and spread chaos in the region and beyond,” Senator Marshall said.
    “This time last year, I woke up in the Middle East to the unbearable news that Israel was under attack by Iran-backed terrorists and Americans were being killed and taken hostage,” said Senator Ernst, a combat veteran. “I immediately traveled into Israel to show that our nation’s friendship is unwavering, in good times and bad. Regardless of whether I have been in Jerusalem, Washington, or Iowa, I have worked around the clock to hold the White House accountable to its ‘ironclad’ commitment, bring our hostages home, and cut off the source of terrorism in Tehran. One year since that day, as Israel remains under attack on all fronts, Senate Republicans stand united with our greatest ally in the Middle East.”
    Click here or scroll below to view the full resolution. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: News 10/7/2024 Blackburn Announces Pop-Up Office Hours to Assist Flood Victims in East Tennessee

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn)
    NASHVILLE, Tenn. – In response to the devastating impact of Hurricane Helene in counties across East Tennessee, U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) announced pop-up office hours in affected counties for staff to provide immediate assistance to flood victims:
    “Our hearts go out to everyone affected by the recent flooding,” said Senator Blackburn. “As we continue to coordinate with local, state, and federal agencies to support recovery efforts, I want to ensure that every impacted resident has access to the resources they need.”

    ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

    Pop-up office hours will be available to help residents access critical federal resources and navigate replacing any federal documentation that may be needed to receive federal assistance, including social security cards, veteran records, and tax information.
    Staff can also assist flood victims in following up on disaster assistance applications with the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). 
    Constituents are encouraged to bring any relevant documentation with them, such as proof of residency and identification, to streamline the process.
    For more information on pop-up office hours, please contact (423) 753-4009. 

    SCHEDULE AND LOCATIONS:

    Tuesday, October 8, 2024 – Johnson and Carter Counties
    Johnson County Courthouse – Lower Courtroom9:00AM – 12:00PM ET222 West Main StreetMountain City, TN 37683
    Carter County Courthouse – Mayor’s Conference Room2:00PM – 5:00PM ET
    801 E Elk AveElizabethton, TN 37643
    Wednesday, October 9, 2024 – Washington and Unicoi Counties
    Jonesborough Visitors Center Community Room9:00AM – 12:00PM ET117 Boone St.Jonesborough, TN 37659
    Erwin City Hall2:00PM – 5:00PM ET211 N Main AveErwin, TN 37650
    Thursday, October 10, 2024 – Greene and Cocke Counties
    Greene County Annex
    9:00AM – 12:00PM ET204 N Cutler St.Greeneville, TN 37745
    Cocke County Recreation Center2:00PM – 5:00PM ET466 Learning WayNewport, TN 37821
    Friday, October 11, 2024 – Hamblen and Hawkins Counties
    Hamblen County Mayor’s Office
    9:00AM – 12:00PM ET511 W 2nd St. Morristown, TN 37814
    Mayor’s Office Admin Building2:00PM – 5:00PM ET301 E. Washington St. Rogersville, TN 37857

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Romney Joins Senate Republican Colleagues in Standing with Israel, Condemning Iran-backed Hamas

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Mitt Romney (R-UT)
    WASHINGTON—One year since the October 7 terrorist attacks that killed dozens of Americans, U.S. Senator Mitt Romney (R-UT) joined every Senate Republican, led by Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA), in fully condemning Iran-backed Hamas for its actions, supporting Israel’s right to self-defense, and calling for the safe release of the remaining American hostages.
    The entire Senate Republican Conference stands united in opposing violent antisemitic protests and Iran-backed Hamas’ use of rape as a weapon of war. They also reiterate Israel’s right to defend itself and emphasize the importance of denying Hamas the ability to reconstitute in the region to ensure the horrific events of that day are never repeated. Text of the resolution can be found here.
    “One year ago today, we witnessed the horrific, inhumane, and depraved terrorist acts perpetuated by Hamas against the people of Israel,” said Senator Romney. “I continue to stand with Israel and pray for the safe return of hostages and for the Israeli soldiers defending their country. I also pray for an end to the rampant antisemitism we are witnessing in our own country and across the world. Hamas’ reign of terror must end.”
    “This time last year, I woke up in the Middle East to the unbearable news that Israel was under attack by Iran-backed terrorists and Americans were being killed and taken hostage,” said Senator Ernst. “I immediately traveled into Israel to show that our nation’s friendship is unwavering, in good times and bad. Regardless of whether I have been in Jerusalem, Washington, or Iowa, I have worked around the clock to hold the White House accountable to its ‘ironclad’ commitment, bring our hostages home, and cut off the source of terrorism in Tehran. One year since that day, as Israel remains under attack on all fronts, Senate Republicans stand united with our greatest ally in the Middle East.”
    “The United States stands with Israel, on this solemn anniversary and every day, as it defends itself against terrorist entities that seek to undermine peace and stability in the region. We must be unwavering in our support for our great friend and ally,” said Senate Republican Whip Thune.
    “The world watched in horror a year ago as Hamas slaughtered innocent men, women and children in Israel. Our nation must provide unwavering support to Israel’s mission to defend itself and defeat Hamas. We must unite and bring back peace through strength. Our resolution underscores how now more than ever, the American people need to stand with our ally Israel,” said Senate Republican Conference Chair Barrasso.
    “Today, people across the world are remembering those lives lost and the hostages who remain in captivity in Gaza. Unfortunately, a year later, Iran-backed groups continue to threaten the safety and security of the Israeli people. Hamas continues to hold innocent hostages in Gaza, while the Houthis in Yemen and Hezbollah in Lebanon fire rockets and missiles towards Israel. The United States can and should continue to do all it can to support our ally Israel and hold Iran and its proxies accountable for their brutal attacks. This resolution is an important message to the people of Israel that we remain committed to defending them,” said Senate Foreign Relations Committee Ranking Member Risch.
    “Hamas and its Iranian sponsors are intent on nothing less than the destruction of the Jewish state. On this anniversary, we remember the victims, demand freedom for the remaining hostages, and declare our strong and abiding support for our Israeli partners to ensure that these terrorist regimes are relegated to the dustbin of history,” said Senate Armed Services Committee Ranking Member Wicker.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese vice premier urges bolstering Xinjiang’s development

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

    Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, delivers a speech at a meeting celebrating the 70th founding anniversary of Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps (XPCC) in Urumqi, capital of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region on Oct. 7, 2024. The vice premier led a central delegation to Xinjiang for the occasion. A congratulatory letter sent by the CPC Central Committee, the State Council and the Central Military Commission was read out at the meeting. [Photo/Xinhua]

    URUMQI, Oct. 7 — Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng on Monday urged efforts to bolster Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps (XPCC) to boost Xinjiang’s development.

    He, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, made the remarks at a meeting celebrating the XPCC’s 70th founding anniversary in Urumqi, capital of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region.

    The vice premier led a central delegation to Xinjiang for the occasion.

    Entrusted by Xi Jinping, general secretary of the CPC Central Committee, He extended congratulations and greetings to people from various ethnic groups of the XPCC on behalf of central authorities.

    A congratulatory letter sent by the CPC Central Committee, the State Council and the Central Military Commission was read out at the meeting.

    The XPCC was founded in 1954 by demobilized military personnel in Xinjiang and has over the past seven decades made pivotal contributions to boosting Xinjiang’s development, strengthening ethnic unity and social stability, as well as guarding the borders, according to the letter.

    He said the XPCC has blazed a new trail of land reclamation and development under the system of socialism with Chinese characteristics over the past 70 years. Generations of people from the XPCC have made tremendous sacrifices and contributions, and have accumulated many valuable experience, the vice premier said.

    He called on the XPCC to fully tap its strengths in maintaining stability and defending border areas to serve Xinjiang’s social stability, foster new industrial and sci-tech drivers to promote high-quality development, and leverage the reform and opening-up to construct the region into a “golden channel” between Asia and Europe and a bridgehead for China’s westward opening up.

    Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, delivers a speech at a meeting celebrating the 70th founding anniversary of Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps (XPCC) in Urumqi, capital of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region on Oct. 7, 2024. The vice premier led a central delegation to Xinjiang for the occasion. A congratulatory letter sent by the CPC Central Committee, the State Council and the Central Military Commission was read out at the meeting. [Photo/Xinhua]

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Translation: The S2R plan has attracted strong support from the population and stakeholders consulted

    MIL OSI Translation. French Polynesian to English –

    Source: Government of New Caledonia

    The 17th government is currently working on implementing the Safeguarding, Rebuilding and Reconstruction Plan (S2R), an initiative launched in the public interest. Following the public consultation, which was a great success, the government wishes to continue meetings with the stakeholders concerned before the conference scheduled for 17 and 18 October.

    3,000 is the number of contributions collected by the public consultation open from August 29 to September 19 in order to collect the thoughts, observations and aspirations of the population regarding the S2R plan and the future Caledonian model.

    “This first step met our objective, which was to see if we could involve New Caledonia in a process with the broadest possible support,” said government president Louis Mapou. “All the communities were involved in the process and a certain number of them asked to have more time to finalize their work.”

    The government has therefore decided to continue consulting stakeholders before the conference scheduled for 17 and 18 October, during which the results of the work undertaken will be presented.

    “This will allow us to meet in particular with the Congress, the working group of executive presidents (GTPE), the NC Éco consortium and the unions,” added the president.

    A common approach for a new Caledonian model

    As a reminder, the S2R plan was designed to enable the organisation of short-term safeguard measures for New Caledonia, to define the major principles of reconstruction on which the new Caledonian model will be based and to identify priority avenues for reconstruction. It is divided into three parts.

    The backup

    This emergency component of the S2R plan, designed for the very short term (end of 2024), aims solely at the survival of the economic and social system of New Caledonia, which has been severely affected by the consequences of the abuses that began in May 2024. It will be applied around 11 themes identified as priorities (health and RUAMM, electricity system, retirement, housing, air transport, maritime transport, land transport, public finances, economy, businesses, employees, training, associations and purchasing power, solidarity and food emergency, priority reconstructions).

    Reconstruction and Refoundation

    The reconstruction-rebuilding components consist of developing an appropriate response that is up to the challenges that New Caledonia must face. Recent events and the resulting situation now require us to reexamine the foundations on which New Caledonia has developed over the past three decades. It is now crucial to engage the territory in a rebuilding process involving a transformation of its economic and social model, its societal model and its institutional model.

    EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI USA: PHOTOS AVAILABLE: Governor Cooper, FEMA Administrator Criswell Meet with Military Leaders in Western North Carolina

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: PHOTOS AVAILABLE: Governor Cooper, FEMA Administrator Criswell Meet with Military Leaders in Western North Carolina

    PHOTOS AVAILABLE: Governor Cooper, FEMA Administrator Criswell Meet with Military Leaders in Western North Carolina
    mseets

    Today, Governor Roy Cooper and FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell met with U.S. Northern Command Commander General Gregory Guillot and Dual Status Commander Brigadier General Wes Morrison in Western North Carolina. More than 2,500 Soldiers and Airmen are now working in Western North Carolina with approximately 500 more on their way.

    After the meeting, Governor Cooper traveled to Chimney Rock and Lake Lure to thank volunteers and assess damage from Hurricane Helene. While in Chimney Rock, Governor Cooper met with Mayor Peter O’Leary and walked through Main Street to survey damage of the area. The Governor also visited the fire department where he thanked first responders. In Lake Lure, Governor Cooper and Mayor Carol Pritchett stopped at the Lake Lure Inn before touring damage of the area.

    “Today, I visited with military personnel and traveled to Chimney Rock and Lake Lure to talk with people there and see firsthand the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene,” said Governor Cooper. “These communities are home to family-owned businesses and neighbors who are helping one another. We will continue to work with Western North Carolina to respond and recover from this catastrophic storm.”

    Photos from today’s visit can be found here.

    North Carolina National Guard and Military Response

    More than 2,500 Soldiers and Airmen are now working in Western North Carolina area with approximately 500 more on their way. Joint Task Force- North Carolina, the task force led by the North Carolina National Guard is made up of Soldiers and Airmen from 12 different states, two different XVIII Airborne Corps units from Ft. Liberty, a unit coming from Ft. Campbell’s 101st Airborne Division, and numerous civilian entities are working side-by-side to get the much-needed help to the citizens in western North Carolina.

    National Guard and military personnel are operating more than 40 helicopters and more than 1,100 specialized vehicles in Western North Carolina to facilitate these missions. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is helping to assess water and wastewater plants and dams. Residents can track the status of the public water supply in their area through a website launched on Saturday.

    FEMA Assistance

    More than $33 million in FEMA Individual Assistance funds have been paid so far to Western NC disaster survivors and more than 109,000 people have registered for Individual Assistance. Nearly 2,111 people are now housed in hotels through FEMA’s Transitional Sheltering Assistance. Federal partners have delivered more than 9.36 million liters of water and more than 7.06 million meals in North Carolina to support both responders and people living in the affected communities.

    More than 800 FEMA staff are in the state to help with the western North Carolina relief effort. In addition to search and rescue and providing commodities, they are meeting with disaster survivors in shelters and neighborhoods to provide rapid access to relief resources. They can be identified by their FEMA logo apparel and federal government identification.

    The Major Disaster Declaration requested by Governor Cooper and granted by President Biden now includes 27 North Carolina counties (Alexander, Alleghany, Ashe, Avery, Buncombe, Burke, Caldwell, Catawba, Clay, Cleveland, Gaston, Haywood, Henderson, Jackson, Lincoln, Macon, Madison, McDowell, Mecklenburg, Mitchell, Polk, Rutherford, Swain, Transylvania, Watauga, Wilkes and Yancey) and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians.

    North Carolinians can apply for Individual Assistance by calling 1-800-621-3362 from 7am to 11pm daily or by visiting www.disasterassistance.gov, or by downloading the FEMA app. FEMA may be able to help with serious needs, displacement, temporary lodging, basic home repair costs, personal property loss or other disaster-caused needs.

    Help from Other States

    More than 1,300 responders from 35 state and local agencies have performed 107 missions supporting the response and recovery efforts through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC). This includes public health nurses, emergency management teams supporting local governments, veterinarians, teams with search dogs and more.

    Beware of Misinformation

    North Carolina Emergency Management and local officials are cautioning the public about false Helene reports and misinformation being shared on social media. NCEM has launched a fact versus rumor response webpage to provide factual information in the wake of this storm. FEMA also has a rumor response webpage.

    Food, Water and Commodity Points of Distribution

    Efforts continue to provide food, water and basic necessities to residents in affected communities, using both ground resources and air drops from the NC National Guard. More than 20,000 hot meals a day are being prepared and served by mobile kitchens. Food, water and commodity points of distribution are open throughout western North Carolina. For information on these sites in your community, visit your local emergency management and local government social media and websites or visit ncdps.gov/Helene.

    Missing Persons

    To report a missing person or request non-emergency support, please call NC 211 or 1-888-892-1162 if calling from out-of-state. NC 211 also has a registry page for missing persons and welfare check requests.

    Shelters

    A total of 19 shelters are open in Western North Carolina and Saturday night served more than 780 people and 95 pets.

    Storm Damage Cleanup

    If your home has damages and you need assistance with clean up, please call Crisis Cleanup for access to volunteer organizations that can assist you at 844-965-1386.

    Power Outages

    Across Western North Carolina, approximately 139,000 customers remained without power, down from a peak of more than 1 million. Overall power outage numbers will fluctuate up and down as power crews temporarily take circuits or substations offline to make repairs and restore additional customers.

    Road Closures

    Travel remains dangerous, with approximately 650 roads closed. More than 100 of those roads are primary routes connecting the region. As connectivity and reporting measures improve, these number may increase.

    NCDOT is asking people to avoid unnecessary travel to or in Western North Carolina. NCDOT has posted at ncdot.gov an interstate detour map for travelers to avoid western N.C. NCDOT currently has more than 2,050 employees and 1,100 pieces of equipment working on more than 4,100 damaged road sites.

    Fatalities

    Seventy-seven storm-related deaths have been confirmed in North Carolina by the Office of Chief Medical Examiner. We expect that this number will continue to rise over the coming days. The North Carolina Office of the Chief Medical Examiner will continue to confirm numbers twice daily. If you have an emergency or believe that someone is in danger, please call 911. To report that you have been unable to reach a person in Western North Carolina, please call 211.

    Volunteers and Donations

    Due to dangerous road conditions and the need to maintain open routes for emergency operations, travel to Western North Carolina is strongly discouraged. Instead, consider the following options for donations and volunteer opportunities:

    • If you would like to donate to the North Carolina Disaster Relief Fund, visit nc.gov/donate. Donations will help to support local nonprofits working on the ground.
    • For information on volunteer opportunities, please visit nc.gov/volunteernc

    Additional Assistance

    There is no right or wrong way to feel in response to the trauma of a hurricane. If you have been impacted by the storm and need someone to talk to, call or text the Disaster Distress Helpline at 1-800-985-5990. Help is also available to anyone, anytime in English or Spanish through a call, text or chat to 988. Learn more at 988Lifeline.org.

    If you are seeking a representative from the North Carolina Joint Information Center, please email ncempio@ncdps.gov or call 919-825-2599.

    For general information, access to resources, or answers to frequently asked questions, please visit ncdps.gov/helene.

    If you are seeking information on resources for recovery help for a resident impacted from the storm, please email IArecovery@ncdps.gov.

    ###

    Oct 7, 2024

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loans Available to Hawaii Small Businesses

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Small nonfarm businesses in Hawaii, Honolulu, Kalawao, Kauai and Maui counties are now eligible to apply for low‑interest federal disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration, announced Francisco Sánchez Jr., associate administrator for the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the Small Business Administration. These loans offset economic losses because of reduced revenues caused by drought in Honolulu and Kauai counties that began Aug. 6.

    “SBA eligibility covers both the economic impacts on businesses dependent on farmers and ranchers that have suffered agricultural production losses caused by the disaster and businesses directly impacted by the disaster,” Sánchez said.

    When farmers face crop losses and a disaster is declared by the Secretary of Agriculture, SBA working capital loans become a lifeline for eligible small businesses. “These loans are the backbone that helps rural communities bounce back and thrive after a disaster strikes,” Sánchez continued.

    Small nonfarm businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small businesses engaged in aquaculture and most private nonprofit organizations of any size may qualify for Economic Injury Disaster Loans of up to $2 million to help meet financial obligations and operating expenses which could have been met had the disaster not occurred.

    “Eligibility for these loans is based on the financial impact of the disaster only and not on any actual property damage. These loans have an interest rate of 4 percent for businesses and 3.25 percent for private nonprofit organizations, a maximum term of 30 years and are available to small businesses and most private nonprofits without the financial ability to offset the adverse impact without hardship,” Sánchez added.

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

    By law, SBA makes Economic Injury Disaster Loans available when the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture designates an agricultural disaster. The Secretary declared this disaster on Sept. 30.

    Businesses primarily engaged in farming or ranching are not eligible for SBA disaster assistance. Agricultural enterprises should contact the Farm Service Agency about the U.S. Department of Agriculture assistance made available by the Secretary’s declaration. However, nurseries are eligible for SBA disaster assistance in drought disasters.

    Applicants may apply online and receive additional disaster assistance information at SBA.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

    The deadline to apply for economic injury is May 30, 2025.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: ASB delivering Kiwis the best in digital banking

    Source: CanStar

    October 8, 2024: Congratulations to ASB, the winner of Canstar’s Award for Bank of the Year | Digital Banking, for the third consecutive year.

    According to Canstar’s latest research, 96% of bank customers use digital banking, and 94% do all their banking online. However, digital banking habits are still evolving.

    Smartphones have transformed the way we manage our day-to-day finances: four years ago, half of Kiwis (49%) used mobile banking apps, while 42% accessed accounts through bank websites. Those figures now stand at: 70% mobile apps and 23% bank websites.

    And leading the field in transforming the way we access online banking is ASB.

    In awarding ASB Canstar’s Bank of the Year | Digital Banking title for the third year in a row, our research team noted that ASB had maintained its market-leading position across several key digital banking categories, via the ASB Mobile Banking app and its online banking portal.

    Tom Slee, Canstar Group Manager – Wealth, Health & New Zealand says, “Most of us rely on our phones to conduct all our everyday banking, and ASB’s customers truly have the power to control their finances at their fingertips.

    “ASB’s Mobile Banking app not only makes everyday banking easy, it empowers ASB customers to set savings goals and stick to them, thanks to innovated features such as Goal Planner, Spend Tracker and the Save the Change tool. Congratulations to ASB for achieving a hat-trick of Digital Banking Awards – it’s a well-deserved accomplishment.”

    ASB’s Executive General Manager Technology and Transformation, David Bullock says, “Financial wellbeing is at the heart of everything we do, and one of the many ways we are championing this is through tools such as Spend Tracker, Support Finder, Save the Change and Card Tracker. In the past financial year, more than half a million of our customers used at least one of our digital financial wellbeing tools to help get ahead and achieve their goals.

    “We’ve also continued to develop our communication channels for customers, with improvements to our chatbot, Josie, as well as introducing the ability for customers to message us directly through the ASB mobile banking app. We’re incredibly proud of the work we’re doing in this space and it’s great to have this recognised by Canstar.”

    Canstar Bank of the Year | Digital Banking Award

    Canstar’s expert research team assessed the winner of its 2024 rating methodology and feedback from 3851 bank customers. The offers customers the strongest combination of products, features and tools across offerings.

    The award is designed to help consumers make more informed financial choices and sits alongside Canstar’s other awards, covering banking, insurance and KiwiSaver products.

    Click here for more information on ASB’s win: https://www.canstar.co.nz/digital-banking/best-digital-banking/

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Reserve Bank – RBNZ releases Annual Report 2024

    Source: Reserve Bank of New Zealand

    8 October 2024 – The Reserve Bank of New Zealand – Te Pūtea Matua has today published its Annual Report covering the year from 1 July 2023 to 30 June 2024.

    Board Chair Professor Neil Quigley says the past year’s achievements have laid the foundations to enable significant, multi-year programmes of work.

    “The Board’s major focus this year has been to evolve our strategy and performance framework. In June, we published our refreshed Statement of Intent for 2024-2028, which, alongside our Performance Expectations, outlines our accountability for delivering on our mandate,” Professor Quigley says.  

    Over the next few years, as we continue to develop as an organisation, we will also evolve how we assess and report on our achievement against our strategic themes, outcomes and key activities.

    Highlights this year include the implementation of one of the largest programmes of work, the Deposit Takers Act; commencing the implementation of the Foreign Reserves Management and Coordination Framework; delivering our Outsourcing Policy (BS11); and the new payments messaging format (ISO 20022). All of which have helped to ensure New Zealanders can have confidence in our financial system.

    Governor Adrian Orr acknowledges we continue to operate in a challenging external environment. Global economic growth remains below trend. However, our monetary policy actions have reduced capacity pressures in the New Zealand economy and lowered consumer price inflation to 3.3 percent in June 2024, down from 6 percent in June 2023.

    “I am proud of the gains we have made as we continue to progress our vision of a trusted, inclusive, resilient, and competitive financial system,” Mr Orr says.

    “We are also exploring the future of money and role of digital currencies; we have published our Approach to Financial Inclusion; updated our Te Ao Māori strategy – Te Waka Hourua; and we will release our first climate-related financial disclosure later in October. Each initiative is moving us closer towards our vision.”

    In line with our dividend principles, the RBNZ is required to recommend to the Minister the amount of dividend to be paid to the Crown at the end of each financial year. The Minister of Finance has agreed that the RBNZ will pay a dividend of $597 million in 2023/24.
     

    More information

    Annual Report 2024 – Reserve Bank of New Zealand – Te Pūtea Matua (rbnz.govt.nz) https://govt.us20.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bd316aa7ee4f5679c56377819&id=038b58eb69&e=f3c68946f8

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Enabling a Better Understanding of the Mind-Body Connection Through Advanced Health Research

    Source: Samsung

    Mental health impacts nearly every aspect of our daily lives, from our physical health to our relationships with friends, family, and communities, as well as productivity at work and beyond. Despite the critical role mental health plays in overall well-being, most technology is centered around physical health. Samsung is committed to fostering innovative health solutions for both today and the future, which is we frequently collaborate with leading medical institutions and universities to leverage advanced technologies and explore new possibilities in health and wellness.
    In support of World Mental Health Day, Samsung is highlighting ongoing research programs with Massachusetts General Hospital, MIT Media Lab, Brigham & Women’s Hospital, and Tulane University School of Medicine, Heart and Vascular Institute. Samsung has collaborated with these institutions to create a range of studies that dive deep into the mind-body connection. By examining various health indicators, including depression, mood, recovery, and even cardiovascular diseases, Samsung and leading medical institutions seek to deliver more comprehensive and preventative health solutions for all.
    Enabling Depression Prevention & Detection with Massachusetts General Hospital

    Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) continues to analyze the correlation between depression and various biomarkers by evaluating the health metrics of 150 participants — each with different levels of depression — using Galaxy Watch. The study aims to validate the correlations between depression and biometrics, such as participants’ patterns of biometric data, active time, sleep stage, and latency on both weekends and weekdays, to identify more detailed characteristics. The findings will be used to introduce a mental health index, allowing users to better understand their mental state and take proactive measures.

    Measuring Well-Being through Sleep with MIT Media Lab

    MIT Media Lab has expanded the understanding of sleep’s role in well-being by linking sleep patterns to overall health. Approximately 200 college students participated in the study, tracking their sleep over the course of a month and self-evaluating across five well-being indicators every morning, including alertness, happiness, energy, health, and calmness. The study found strong associations between sleep and well-being, particularly when considering not only sleep duration, but also sleep regularity. Moreover, utilizing an AI-based mixed-effect random forest (MERF) model, MIT Media Lab was able to predict the participants’ self- reported well-being based on their sleep patterns within a mean absolute error of 11- 15 points on a 100 point scaler, which closely matched their self-evaluation results. This outcome highlights the link between sleep and well-being, as well as the possibility of personalized well-being assessment and management through the analysis of sleep patterns.
    Helping Rapid Recovery with Brigham & Women’s Hospital

    Brigham & Women’s Hospital (BWH) is studying the relationship between biomarkers and an individual’s resilience, or how quickly one recovers from major stressors. As a holistic measure, resilience captures both the capacity of the body and the mind to withstand major events such as disease and surgery. As a first use case, they are monitoring patients before, during and after undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) surgery. Galaxy Watch tracks participants’ lifestyle patterns and health conditions in real time while the data is automatically collected and analyzed using the Samsung Health Research Stack, a system designed to increase the efficiency and accuracy of large-scale research. This study aims to uncover insights into recovery and ability to withstand stressors, not only to help inform from medical decisions, but also help individuals understand how they can be prepared in both mind and body for any challenges that may come.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI: Liqueous LP Announces $65 Million Financing Program in Nuburu Inc. (BURU), Highlighting Comprehensive Financing with Limited Dilution

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DOVER, Del., Oct. 07, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Liqueous LP, a leading multi-strategy fund, focused on leveraging emerging technologies to set a new industry standard for how micro, small, and mid-market issuers access growth capital, is pleased to announce a comprehensive $65 million financing program for Nuburu Inc. (NYSE American: BURU), a trailblazer in high-power industrial blue laser technology. This financing program, structured jointly with the team at Nuburu, provides terms designed to deliver predictable, strategic, and low-cost capital while minimizing dilution, significantly exceeding Nuburu’s current market cap of approximately $2.6 million, underscoring the company’s substantial intrinsic value and transformative potential across multiple industries.

    The investment includes a $15 million direct capital injection and the establishment of a $50 million equity line of credit (ELOC), designed to accelerate Nuburu’s expansion in sectors such as e-mobility, healthcare, defense, and consumer electronics. This strategic financing solution mitigates dilution through pre-funded warrants, executed at market prices at the time of investment, allowing for possible price appreciation and flexibility across each tranche. Liqueous LP’s investment is aligned with the market value, ensuring the PIPE is funded at market price without any discounts, resets, or toxic dilutive features

    Jacob M. Fernane, Managing Partner at Liqueous LP, commented:

    “This is a very comprehensive financing solution that provides Nuburu with predictable capital while minimizing dilution and market disruption. The financing is structured at market value with no toxic elements, ensuring our investment aligns with Nuburu’s continued success and growth. Our partnership with Nuburu reflects our strong confidence in the intrinsic value of the company’s technology and its potential to revolutionize multiple high-growth industries.”

    Under the Master Transaction Terms Agreement, Liqueous LP will provide Nuburu with immediate capital, including an initial $3 million investment via pre-funded warrants, followed by weekly capital infusions of $1.25 million until an additional $10 million is invested. Additionally, Nuburu will have access to a $50 million equity line of credit (ELOC), giving the company flexibility for future growth, including a $2.5 million convertible note that is available for immediate use.

    This financing has been structured in a way that avoids unnecessary dilution, leveraging pre-funded warrants with registration rights, while allowing the company to raise capital incrementally at market prices. This approach provides Nuburu with substantial liquidity to scale its operations while validating the company’s underlying value.

    Nuburu’s recent contracts with NASA, along with its pioneering blue laser technology and key clients including the U.S. Navy and GE Additive, demonstrate the company’s growing market presence in industries that require precision and high-speed processing, such as space exploration and aerospace.

    Brian Knaley, CEO of Nuburu, added:

    “We are excited to partner with Liqueous LP in what is a significant step forward for our company. This financing strengthens our financial position and underscores the confidence Liqueous has in our groundbreaking technology and our ability to transform key industries. The fact that this financing comes with favorable terms and limited dilution is a testament to the value both sides see in our long-term potential.”

    About Liqueous LP

    Liqueous LP is an innovative, multi-strategy fund focused on leveraging emerging technologies to provide a new industry standard for how micro, small, and mid-market issuers access growth capital. By utilizing proprietary technology and advanced risk management solutions, Liqueous delivers long-term, low-cost capital that optimizes value and mitigates risk for its portfolio companies. Liqueous specializes in bespoke financing structures including shareholder liquidity products such as REPOs, block trades, and other asset-backed instruments. To learn more, visit http://www.liqueous.com.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties, including those related to Liqueous LP’s and Nuburu’s financial performance and future business activities. These statements are based on current expectations and projections, but actual results may differ due to market conditions or strategic shifts. Liqueous LP is under no obligation to update these forward-looking statements except as required by law.

    Contact:
    info@liqueous.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cassidy Participates in Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony for Monroe Street Project in Ruston

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy
    MONROE – This afternoon, U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) participated in the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Monroe Street Corridor Project, which will improve roads and create more space for runners and cyclists in Ruston, including at Louisiana Tech University.
    “This street is an example of when Louisiana leaders serving in Washington connect with local leaders in Louisiana. I was pleased to combine my efforts with those locally to carry out a vision that makes Ruston and Louisiana better for our citizens,” said Dr. Cassidy. 
    Thanks in part to a $17.1 million RAISE Transportation Discretionary Grant, the Monroe Street Corridor Project has reached completion, and will yield over $3.47 in net public benefits compared to every single dollar invested. By revitalizing brownfield sites, embracing features like LED lighting and via other measures, Ruston is making the Monroe Street corridor safer for drivers, joggers, and cyclists, including at Louisiana Tech.
    The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) provides $7.5 billion for similar projects around the state. Just this year, over $10 million was distributed from the IIJA for projects in Lafourche, Plaquemines, and St. Tammany Parishes. Additionally, $900,000 was granted from the IIJA for the Ruston Regional Airport, and $7.5 million was secured in separate appropriations by Cassidy for utility upgrades in Ruston and for domestic semiconductor technology research at Louisiana Tech.
    Cassidy was hosted at the ribbon-cutting ceremony by Louisiana Tech President Jim Henderson and Ruston Mayor Ronny Walker, who praised his leadership and advocacy for the City of Ruston.
    “This project will make it easier for our neighbors, students and visitors to travel through Ruston, to get to work or class, or to enjoy our downtown,” said Mayor Walker. “And it will make it safer to drive, and add to the more than 30 miles of walking and biking trails in our great city. We appreciate Senator Cassidy’s support of this project, and his continued work to help us meet our infrastructure needs.”
    Earlier, Cassidy spoke to the Ruston-Lincoln Chamber of Commerce and with members of the Lincoln Parish Police Jury, to discuss many of the opportunities available for the parish in the IIJA and via separate appropriations. Money is still available in the IIJA for roads, water and sewage projects, and flood mitigation, and Cassidy will be hosting a series of rural community funding summits this month to expose local leaders to those opportunities.
    “Lincoln Parish and Louisiana Tech are examples for the rest of the state on how to build safe and livable cities and campuses. That is only possible thanks to our partnership with elected officials, business leaders and university officials dedicated to this community,” said Dr. Cassidy. 
    At the Chamber, he was introduced to the group by Mr. Thomas Graham, chair of the Ruston-Lincoln Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, and was welcomed to the Lincoln Parish Police Jury office by Mr. Courtney Hall, the administrator for Lincoln Parish.
    “We always enjoy hosting Senator Cassidy and want to thank him for providing such an engaging update to our business community,” said Mr. Graham. “We are grateful to Senator Cassidy for his steadfast leadership in Washington, D.C., and for representing our interests in North Louisiana.”
    “We are grateful that Senator Cassidy and his staff have taken time out of their busy schedule to meet with the Lincoln Parish Police Jury to discuss Federal funding opportunities for local projects,” said Mr. Hall. “Lincoln Parish is experiencing unprecedented growth and getting these Federal tax dollars back and working at the local level is critical to ensuring that our transportation infrastructure keeps up with that rapid growth.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cassidy, Warner Introduce Bill to Improve IRS Customer Service

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) and Mark Warner (D-VA) introduced legislation to improve customer service at the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Specifically, the Improving IRS Customer Service Act would expand information regarding refunds available to taxpayers online. The bill would also require the IRS to inform taxpayers applying for installment agreements about available collection alternatives if they appear to have an economic hardship.
    “It should be easy for taxpayers to get the information they need from the IRS. Not every interaction with them has to be miserable,” said Dr. Cassidy. “We can streamline the process and give Americans the transparency they expect.”
    “The IRS has been the source of massive headaches for taxpayers for years,” said Senator Warner. “I am glad to introduce this legislation that will ease some of this frustration by increasing clear communication and making IRS resources more readily available.” 
    The Improving IRS Customer Service Act would:
    Establish a dashboard to inform taxpayers of backlogs and wait times;  
    Expand electronic access to information and refunds;
    Expand callback technology and online accounts; 
    Inform individuals facing economic hardship of collection alternatives. 
    “By introducing the Improving IRS Customer Service Act, Senator Warner and Senator Cassidy have earned the gratitude of every taxpayer who’s ever had to contend with the IRS’s notoriously inconsistent customer service,” said Pete Sepp, President, National Taxpayers Union. “The sensible reforms in this bill, which include a wait-time dashboard, better access to refund information, customer callback technologies, and fairer measurement of IRS service levels, will all make a big difference in solving some of the more frustrating problems that taxpayers have encountered for years. More complete information on tax collection alternatives for taxpayers facing financial hardships will likewise give hope for many struggling families. This legislation is exactly the kind of guidance Congress needs to provide the IRS for a successful transformation of our entire system of tax administration. National Taxpayers Union is proud to endorse this innovative legislation, and we urge every lawmaker to actively work toward its passage in the remaining days of this Congress.”
    “The AICPA strongly supports the legislative proposals outlined in S. 5280, which provide taxpayers and their tax advisors with clear and detailed information from the IRS in an intuitive and interactive format. Additionally, S. 5280 strives to protect the most economically vulnerable taxpayers by doing away with installment agreement fees and offering collection alternatives to those facing economic hardships. Collectively, these proposals will strengthen the public’s confidence in the tax administration system, and we thank Senators Warner and Cassidy for their leadership on this bipartisan bill,” said Melanie Lauridsen, Vice President of Tax Policy & Advocacy for the American Institute of CPAs.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cassidy Hosts Rural Community Funding Summit in Monroe

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy
    MONROE – This morning, U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) hosted his first Rural Community Funding Summit of 2024 in Monroe, to connect mayors, city council members, and other local officials in Northeast Louisiana with those responsible for distributing funds from his Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA). 
    “My goal is for Northeast Louisiana to do as well as it possibly can,” said Dr. Cassidy. “Working in partnership with local officials to get resources to fix infrastructure is the way to get it done. This returns our tax dollars to our communities.”
    Since its inception, over $9.1 billion has been distributed from the IIJA to Louisiana for various projects. In Ouachita Parish alone, millions of dollars are going to highway surface transportation projects, including over $3.4 million for US 80: LA 617-Ouachita River Bridge, over $2.9 million for Finks Hide-A-Way: Barkley-Bayou Oaks, and over $2.5 million for Lee Avenue: Jackson Street-Standifer Avenue. Cassidy’s IIJA is also helping bring about I-20 corridor intercity passenger rail service, which when completed will run through Monroe, Ruston, and Shreveport to Dallas. Millions have also been secured to clean up brownfields and improve the Monroe Regional Airport.
    Other notable grants for Northeast Louisiana include over $17.5 million for Mound Rest Area reservations in Madison Parish, over $15.2 million for two major surface transportation projects in West Carroll Parish and over $10.5 million for the Ouachita River and LA Highway 165 Multimodal Connectivity and Safety Project in Caldwell Parish. Other road, bridge, and Corps of Engineers projects are being funded throughout the region, and orphan wells are also being addressed.
    Several federal and state agencies were represented at the summit. The summit was co-hosted by the Louisiana Municipal Association, along with the Mayors of Monroe and West Monroe, who thanked Cassidy for putting together the summit and sponsoring the IIJA.
    “Senator Cassidy is a great friend of Monroe and makes sure we get our fair share of federal infrastructure dollars, whether it’s widening roads, improving our airport, or building passenger rail that will connect us to Dallas,” said Monroe Mayor Friday Ellis. “We know we can count on him to advocate for us. I appreciate the Senator’s intentionality at making sure rural communities know that no matter the size of the community, they deserve this information and access to funding. And thanks to this rural community funding summit, our neighbors will also be able to enjoy the benefits of his work. We look forward to working together to make Northeast Louisiana a better place to live and work.”
    “West Monroe is already benefiting from Senator Cassidy’s infrastructure bill, thanks to a major grant to boost our recycling efforts, and other communities can receive help with water, sewage and transportation projects, among others,” said West Monroe Mayor Staci Mitchell. “We appreciate the opportunity to host this summit, to connect leaders throughout the region with the opportunities available to them. Thank you Senator Cassidy for your efforts.”
    Five more rural community funding summits will be held throughout Louisiana, including one on Tuesday at the Minden Recreation Complex on 1001 Recreation Drive, and another on Wednesday at the Leesville Event Center on 608 Nolan Trace. Both will begin at 9 AM. For more information, please contact Shawn Hanscom at shawn_hanscom@cassidy.senate.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reed Holds Manufacturing Roundtable to Help Ocean State Businesses Optimize Economic Growth

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Rhode Island Jack Reed
    PAWTUCKET, RI – Highlighting Rhode Island’s vital manufacturing sector and the continued growth of advanced manufacturing across the Ocean State, U.S. Senator Jack Reed today convened a roundtable discussion with local businesses that produce Rhode Island made products.
    During the forum, small business leaders, industry experts, and manufacturing assistance organizations discussed key challenges and trends facing local manufacturers and several programs geared toward helping entrepreneurs grow and optimize their businesses.
    Partnering with Polaris MEP, a statewide non-profit ‘manufacturing extension partnership’ that serves as a manufacturing support center, and the Rhode Island Manufacturers Association, Senator Reed today heard from several local manufacturers about challenges, successes, and a wide range of issues from child care and health care to infrastructure and supply chains to workforce development and cutting red tape.
    “Rhode Island’s manufacturers are critical to our economy.  They are powered by innovation and produce a range of well-made products, as well as jobs and opportunities. When manufacturers grow and thrive, so does our economy.  That’s why I continue working at the federal level to support our small businesses and strengthen Rhode Island’s manufacturing ecosystem.  That includes investing in workforce development and making sure we have the right programs in place to connect people to in-demand job skills and ensure enough qualified candidates to fill job vacancies,” said Senator Reed.  
    Rhode Island is home to over 1,600 manufacturing companies that employ approximately 8.5 percent of the Ocean State’s total workforce.  Rhode Island’s manufacturers have a multiplying effect across the state’s economy, with every $1 in pay for manufacturing workers resulting in an income increase of 90 cents for other workers in the state. 
    According to Rhode Island Commerce, the total economic output from the state’s manufacturers was $5.28 billion in 2021.
    Senator Reed says that strengthening and expanding efforts on the federal level to support Rhode Island’s manufacturers will help increase wages, bolster the state’s economy, and better position the state to be a leader in numerous industries.
    “Hearing from today’s group of outstanding leaders in the manufacturing community, it is clear that our state’s manufacturing landscape continues to strengthen and evolve,” said Senator Reed.  “Today’s manufacturers rely on increasingly skilled and specialized employees to operate sophisticated, computer-based machinery and technology. I will continue to support our manufacturers, lower costs for businesses, and ensure the dedicated employees who power our economy are paid good wages for their hard work.  I will bring the messages I heard today back to our nation’s capital to ensure we can continue to support small business here in Rhode Island and nationwide.”
    Celebrated every October, Manufacturing Month recognizes and promotes the success of U.S. manufacturers in the global marketplace while encouraging sustained growth and innovation in a variety of industries.
    This year’s roundtable included business owners and representatives from the Cooley Group, a Pawtucket manufacturer of advanced textiles with industrial, commercial, and defense applications; Chi Kitchen, a Pawtucket food manufacturer; SENESCO Marine, a Quonset boatbuilder that works closely with the offshore wind industry and develops new, state-of-the-art hybrid ferries; Dewetron, an East Greenwich manufacturer of computerized testing technology used in the aerospace industry and by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA); and Reade Advanced Materials, an East Providence chemical manufacturer with a global reach.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Inclusive Response and Recovery: FEMA’s Disability Integration Efforts During Hurricane Helene

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Inclusive Response and Recovery: FEMA’s Disability Integration Efforts During Hurricane Helene

    Inclusive Response and Recovery: FEMA’s Disability Integration Efforts During Hurricane Helene

    FEMA Supporting Survivors with Disabilities Through Proactive and Inclusive Disaster Recovery Efforts

    WASHINGTON — FEMA’s Disability Integration Advisors are on the ground in areas impacted by Helene to ensure recovery resources are accessible to all survivors. At FEMA, accessibility isn’t confined to one program or specialist, it is incorporated into the execution of all our work and programs. The Disability Integration Advisors are experts in proactively addressing the disability community’s equities and work alongside FEMA leadership to guide FEMA staff in incorporating these equities into their work. Having these advisors on the ground now is crucial to developing recovery systems that are planned and executed with survivors with disabilities in mind. Their duties include ensuring the distribution of water and food factors in survivors who cannot get to reach points and those who require assistive aids to file a FEMA application receive what they need to begin the recovery process. 

    At the direction of FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell, Director of FEMA’s Office of Disability Integration Sherman Gillums plans to visit Helene-impacted areas to meet and collaborate with disability advocates and provide disability integration guidance to emergency managers. 

    “Disability, in some form or fashion, affects just about every family in our country and it is impossible to have a successful response without keeping accessibility at the forefront,” said Director Sherman Gillums. “We’re making sure people can access the information they need to make informed decisions in their recovery. Along with our state, local and voluntary partners, we’re working to get people access to their care needs such as oxygen and prescription medications. Meeting these needs early prevents medical complications and helps preserve independence while reducing the likelihood of forced institutionalization or premature death.” 

    As part of FEMA’s broader efforts to ensure all survivors have access to vital recovery information, specialized teams are actively addressing the needs of the Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing communities. FEMA’s Office of External Affairs’ Certified Deaf Interpreter and communication access specialists are working with disability integration specialists, non-profit partners and state agencies, such as the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services’ Division of Deaf and Hard of Hearing Emergency Preparedness team. Together, they are coordinating events to provide information on FEMA assistance, helping survivors complete the application for assistance and ensuring critical updates are communicated in accessible formats, including American Sign Language (ASL). This collaborative effort ensures that Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing survivors receive the support they need throughout the recovery process.

    For those needing to apply for FEMA disaster assistance: You can apply online now or get help to apply using one of the methods below:

    • Call the FEMA Helpline: 1-800-621-3362, 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. (in your time zone), 7 days a week.
      Hours may be longer during high disaster activity. If you use a video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone (CTS), or other service, give FEMA your number for that service.
    • Find a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) near you.
      DRCs are accessible and set up to provide help and answer questions after a disaster. The operating hours and services offered may vary at each DRC.
    • Downloading and applying on the FEMA App. 

    amy.ashbridge

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Dixmoor

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Dixmoor

    Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Dixmoor

    SPRINGFIELD – A FEMA/State Disaster Recovery Center will open Tuesday, October 8, 2024, to help residents kickstart their recovery after the July 13 – 16, 2024, severe storms, tornadoes, straight-line winds and flooding.

    Specialists from FEMA, the state of Illinois and the U.S. Small Business Administration will be at the center to help survivors apply for federal disaster assistance, upload documents, get their questions answered in person, access other types of help that may be available and learn ways to make their property more disaster resistant.

    The center will be open at the following location, days and hours:

    Dixmoor Village Community Center
    14336 Paulina St.
    Dixmoor, IL 60426
    Hours: Mon. – Sun. 8 a.m. – 7 p.m.

    Additional recovery centers will be opening in other impacted counties soon. To find the center nearest you, visit FEMA.gov/DRC. Survivors may visit any center for assistance.

    Assistance in languages other than English, including American sign language, and translated materials are available at these centers. Disaster Recovery Center locations are chosen for their accessibility, with the goal of reaching as many people as possible. Accessible parking spaces are available at all centers.

    Survivors don’t need to visit a Disaster Recovery Center to apply for FEMA assistance. To apply without visiting a center, go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, download the FEMA mobile app or call the FEMA Helpline at 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.

    For even more information about the disaster recovery operation in Illinois, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4819.  

    kimberly.keblish

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Police unveil new fit-for-purpose dog units and ute for Chatham Islands

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Today New Zealand Police and Wade Group have unveiled the new Ford Ranger 4×4 Police Dog Unit and Mitsubishi Triton ute for the Chatham Islands Police.

    The unveiling and tour of the factory at Wade Group headquarters in Hamilton was attended by Minister for Police Hon Mark Mitchell, Assistant Commissioner of Police Mike Johnson, and Hamilton Mayor Paula Southgate with representatives from Skoda and Ford.

    Assistant Commissioner Mike Johnson says “I am delighted to be here alongside the Minister, Mayor Southgate, executive leaders from Giltrap, Wade, Skoda, Mitsubishi, and Ford to unveil our new Ford Ranger 4×4 Police Dog Unit and custom Mitsubishi Triton ute for the Chatham Islands.

    Police’s ongoing collaboration with these businesses, highlights the tangible impact they have on contributing to the safety of New Zealand.

    Some of the features of the Ford Ranger 4×4 dog units include two large pods for the dog to travel in, an automatic fan, and in-built magnetic water bowls.

    These vehicles are a result of the significant investment made as part of Budget 24 which ensures Police continue to have the tools we need to do our job on a day-to-day basis.
    While the overall goal is to standardise our fleet to drive cost-efficiency, it is crucial to maintain some flexibility for specific needs, especially in rural environments like the Chatham Islands.

    “I am eager to see these vehicles deployed and operational, strengthening our policing capabilities.

    They will not only provide visibility and reassurance to our communities but also enhance our ability to address public concerns around gangs and violent crime,” says Assistant Commissioner Johnson.

    Alyssa Wade, Managing Director, Wade Group says, “It’s a privilege to host the official launch of this new Ford Ranger 4 x 4 Dog Unit. This unique vehicle is the result of close collaboration between the New Zealand Police’s Dog Vehicle Working Group and Wade Group. This event comes on the back of Wade Group’s recent milestone of fitting out over 4,500 New Zealand Police vehicles to date. I’d like to recognise our team, as it’s their commitment and hard work that enables Wade Group to do our bit in helping New Zealand Police keep our communities safe.

    Neil Robinson, Operations Manager Emergency Vehicle Division, Wade Group says, “We kicked off the project back in January with a specification meeting, after nine months of hard work seeing a police dog pup in the back of the vehicle for the first time really highlighted for me the important role these new vehicles will play in the community.

    The Chatham Islands utility has a high-spec fitout, ideal for life on an island – including rust and underbody protection for longevity in a harsh sea environment. With a large portion of the work on the island being off-road, it was necessary to fit the vehicle out with bull bars, winch, snorkel, mud tyres, 360 search-light and a high spec and rugged canopy, he says.”

    As part of the event, Wade Group New Zealand showcased the production line of their Skoda Police vehicles.

    Along with the production line tour, they provided a history, and future of vehicles and the services they provide to New Zealand Police.

    There was a display of specialist vehicles from New Zealand Police, Department of Corrections and Civil Defence and Emergency Management.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Watson Coleman Gathers Community Partners to Celebrate $715,000 in Funding for Delaware River Basin Commission

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman

    October 07, 2024

    Today, Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12) visited the Delaware River Basin Commission’s (DRBC) West Trenton offices, joined by New Jersey Deputy Commissioner of Environmental Protection Jane Rosenblatt Birkhofer, DRBC Executive Director Steve Tambini, DRBC Deputy Executive Director Kristen Bowman Kavanagh, Trenton Mayor Reed Gusciora, Ewing Mayor Bert Steinmann and invited guests and partners in Greater Trenton.

    The Congresswoman announced $715,000 in funding, which she secured for the second year in a row, to support DRBC’s water resources work in the region. This funding came as a part of the omnibus government funding legislation that Congress passed March 23rd. Together with prior funding, the DRBC has committed to set aside a total of $1 million to advance climate resilience.

    “Clean water is not a luxury, it’s a basic human right,” said Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12). “This $715,000 federal investment will help ensure the over 14 million Americans who rely on the Delaware River Basin for drinking, agriculture, and industrial usage continue to have access to a clean source of water. It will support the 600,000 jobs and $20 billion in industrial activity that the river facilitates. And it will make our communities more resilient to the growing impacts of climate change. I am so grateful to the Delaware River Basin Commission for the crucial work they do to support our communities. And to the Biden-Harris Administration for making this investment possible.”

    “The DEP is proud to partner with the Delaware River Basin Commission to protect this critical waterway serving millions of residents and multiple communities across four states,” said New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection Deputy Commissioner Jane Rosenblatt Birkhofer. “By working together and through the Commission, we are securing a more resilient New Jersey. DEP thanks Congresswoman Watson Coleman not only for her leadership, but her unwavering commitment to protecting the vital resources of the Delaware River Basin.”

    “Congresswoman Watson Coleman is a true champion for the Greater Trenton community and the water resources of the Delaware River Basin,” said DRBC Executive Director Steve Tambini. “With support from our federal and state partners, DRBC is embarking on agency-wide work to enhance the resilience of the Basin’s water resources into the future, and we are thrilled to accept this funding for the benefit of over 14 million people in four states.”

    “Today’s announcement by Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman highlights the critical importance of investing in our water resources and climate resilience,” said Mayor W. Reed Gusciora. “Securing $715,000 in funding for the Delaware River Basin Commission for the second consecutive year is a testament to her unwavering dedication and leadership. This investment not only strengthens our state’s environmental initiatives but also serves as an example of how we can unite and collaborate across jurisdictions to enhance climate resilience, ensuring a legacy of clean and safe water for future generations.”

    “Getting this funding is a huge win for our community,” said Mayor Bert H. Steinmann. “Thanks to Congresswoman Watson Coleman, we’re making sure our water stays clean and safe, which is vital for everyone. It takes a lot of teamwork to tackle these big issues, and the Delaware River Basin Commission has been a great partner in this. We’re all about rolling up our sleeves and working together—whether it’s building new infrastructure or keeping our waterways healthy for the long haul. This money is going to help us do just that.”

    Following the funding announcement, the Commission and Congresswoman Waston Coleman’s staff hosted Trenton community partners to hear about recent projects and funding opportunities.

    “Partnership is core to our work, and only through partnership can we face the challenges posed by a changing climate to our shared waters. This committed funding fuels our goals for collaborative and meaningful progress,” said DRBC Deputy Executive Director Kristen Bowman Kavanagh. “We were pleased to welcome so many partners working in the Greater Trenton community to highlight their work and connect with our staff to learn about funding opportunities.”

    “From supporting local events and initiatives to engaging in critical environmental projects, Princeton Hydro is proud to play a role in shaping a more sustainable, inclusive, and vibrant Trenton,” said Geoffrey M. Goll, PE, President, Princeton Hydro. “Trenton has welcomed our business with open arms, and we are grateful to be part of this community. We hope to inspire other businesses to join us here in Trenton.”

    “It is such a pleasure to work alongside so many incredible partners to ensure a sustainable future for the Greater Trenton community, where residents are experiencing disproportionate impacts of climate change,” said Jay Watson, Co-Executive Director, New Jersey Conservation Foundation. “New Jersey Conservation Foundation is proud to play a role in the protection of critical natural resources in our capital city and across the state.”

    “The African American Cultural Collaborative of Mercer County is proud to participate in honoring Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman and recognizing the impactful contributions of DRBC,” said Latarsha Burke, CEO/Executive Director of The African American Cultural Collaborative of Mercer County. “Since 2020, in partnership with NJ Legislative District 15, Mercer County Administration, and the City of Trenton, we have successfully produced the annual Juneteenth Celebration. Thanks to the investment and support of DRBC and many others, the Juneteenth Celebration has become a cherished event that unites people of all races and ethnicities. It is now our most anticipated event of the year!”

    About the Delaware River Basin

    The Delaware River Basin spans 13,539 square miles, includes parts of four states, all or portions of 42 counties, 868 municipalities, multiple government entities and jurisdictions, and twenty-two congressional districts. The Basin serves 14.2 million users including 2 million in New Jersey. 

    About the Delaware River Basin Commission

    The DRBC is a federal/interstate government agency created in 1961 by concurrent compact legislation, marking the first time that the federal government and a group of states joined together as equal partners in a river basin planning, development and regulatory agency. The five Commission members are the governors of the Basin states (Delaware, New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania) and the commander of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ North Atlantic Division, who represents the federal government.

    Commission Signatory funding supports DRBC engineering, science, research, monitoring and regulatory programs providing: clean and healthy water for people and wildlife; water resiliency to address climate change and extreme conditions such as floods and droughts; water availability and economic growth by having enough water to meet all of our current and future needs; and water equity to ensure that everyone in our communities share equally in the benefits and stewardship of our shared water resources.

    To learn more about the Commission, please visit http://www.drbc.gov or follow DRBC on X at @DRBC1961.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Day7 – Army Best Squad Competition 2024 Highlight Reel

    Source: US Army (video statements)

    Soldiers participated in multiple lanes on Day 7 at the Best Squad Competition – including reacting to a Nuclear, Biological, Chemical (NBC) attack; Tactical Combat; Casualty Care medical lane; and shooting the M320.

    The competition assesses each squad on their technical and tactical proficiency, knowledge, and implementation, as well as their ability to work as a disciplined and cohesive team.

    Afterward, the top four teams of the week will travel to Washington, D.C. for a board-style interview that will test their knowledge and professionalism in front of top Army leaders.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PLVDQaAggUk

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Energy Sector – Equinor reports on Norwegian development projects

    Source: Equinor

    07 OCTOBER 202422:14(GMT+13) – Equinor is the operator of 19 projects currently under development in Norway. In the proposed National Budget for 2025, the Ministry of Energy listed the status of 13 Equinor-operated projects currently under development or recently completed.

    The projects in question have a total investment framework of 198 billion kroner, from commencement to commissioning.

    “Equinor has a good portfolio of profitable projects being developed in Norway, which will contribute to long-term security of supply of oil and gas to Europe. In 2023, our developments contributed to high activity and 25 billion kroner to the Norwegian supplier industry. Together with our partners and the industry, we have completed six projects during the past year,” says Trond Bokn, head of project development in Equinor.

    The reported projects have seen a cost increase of 6.5 billion 2024-NOK over the past year, which is about 3 per cent. The overall increase since the plans for development and operation (PDOs) is 32.9 billion 2024-NOK. Currency effects account for 12.4 billion of this. If the Johan Castberg project and currency effects are omitted, the cost increase for the reported projects is around 3 percent since PDOs.

    Two of the projects, Johan Castberg and Oseberg gas compression and partial electrification, have experienced a post-PDO increase of more than 20 percent, and are therefore mentioned specifically in the proposed national budget.

    Johan Castberg

    The production ship is now anchored at the field and Johan Castberg is on track for start-up towards the end of the year.

    The cost increase in the project is 2.2 billion 2024-NOK since last year. This is due to a longer stay than estimated at Aker Solutions at Stord, currency effects and a general cost increase. Of this, almost NOK 800 million is currency effects. Since the PDO, estimated costs have grown by 25.7 billion 2024-NOK. Currency effects account for 8.1 billion of this.

    Oseberg gas phase 2 and power from shore (OGP)

    OGP is composed of partial electrification of the Oseberg Field Centre and Oseberg sør, as well as installation of a new compressor module at the field centre.

    The cost increase over the past year is 1.2 billion 2024-NOK. Since the PDO, the cost increase is about NOK 2.5 billion in 2024-NOK. Since the PDO, estimated costs have grown by around 2.5 billion 2024-NOK. This is a result of longer delivery times for new transformers that were destroyed in a fire at Hitachi’s factory in Vaasa in 2023, as well as delays related to increased complexity. Planned commissioning has been postponed from 2026 to late 2027.

    Snøhvit Future

    Snøhvit Future encompasses onshore compression and electrification of Hammerfest LNG on Melkøya. Since the PDO, the cost increase is 1.9 billion 2024-NOK. More than 500 million of this relates to currency effects.

    One of the main reasons for the higher costs is the joint venture’s decision to change the design of an electric boiler as a result of safety considerations.

    Projects included in the National Budget overview

    Breidablikk
    Gina Krog alternative oil export
    Halten Øst
    Johan Castberg
    Kristin Sør phase 1
    Oseberg gas phase 2 and power from shore
    Sleipner power from shore
    Troll Vest electrification
    Irpa
    Verdande
    Snøhvit Future
    Njord Electrification
    Eirin

    Completed projects

    Breidablikk
    Sleipner power from shore
    Kristin Sør phase 1
    Troll Vest electrification
    Gina Krog alternative oil export
    Northern Lights.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Energy Sector – Equinor acquires a 9.8% minority stake in Ørsted

    Source: Equinor

    07 OCTOBER 2024 – Equinor ASA has acquired 41,197,344 shares in Ørsted A/S (“Ørsted”), corresponding to 9.8% of the shares and votes in the company.

    The transaction establishes Equinor as the second largest shareholder in Ørsted, after the Danish State, which holds a controlling stake in the company.

    “Equinor has a long-term perspective and will be a supportive owner in Ørsted. This is a counter-cyclical investment in a leading developer, and a premium portfolio of operating offshore wind assets. The exposure to producing assets complements Equinor’s operated offshore wind portfolio of large projects under development”, says Anders Opedal, CEO of Equinor.

    Equinor is supportive of Ørsted’s strategy and management, and is not seeking board representation.

    “This investment is in line with Equinor’s strategy of value driven growth in renewables. The offshore wind industry is currently facing a set of challenges, but we remain confident in the long-term outlook for the sector, and the crucial role offshore wind will play in the energy transition”, says Opedal.

    Ørsted has a net renewable generation capacity of around 10.4 GW, and a gross portfolio of offshore wind projects in execution of around 7 GW. The company’s ambition is to achieve a gross installed renewable capacity of around 35 to 38 GW by 2030. (1)

    Equinor’s ownership position has been built over time, through a combination of market purchases and a block trade.

    The current market value of Equinor’s holding in Ørsted is around USD 2.5bn, based on a closing price Friday 4 October of DKK 418 per share and a USD/DKK exchange rate of 6.8.

    Subject to obtaining regulatory approvals under applicable Foreign Direct Investment regulations, Equinor intends to increase its ownership to 10%. There are currently no plans to further increase the stake.

    The transaction will be executed within Equinor’s communicated financial framework.

    * * *

    (1) Net renewable generation capacity refers to the company’s equity share of offshore wind, onshore wind and solar generation capacity. Offshore wind projects in execution and the 2030 ambition are gross (100%) numbers. The ambition also includes onshore renewable energy, power-to-X and bioenergy. Source: Ørsted’s Q2-24 presentation and asset book.

    This information is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to Section 5-12 of the Norwegian Securities Trading Act

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Graham, Governor McMaster, Lt. Governor Evette Announce Team South Carolina Days For Hurricane Helene Recovery Resources

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for South Carolina Lindsey Graham
    WASHINGTON – In order to best serve South Carolinians who were impacted by Hurricane Helene, U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) is joining Governor Henry McMaster and Lieutenant Governor Pamela Evette in announcing a series of Team South Carolina Days. These will be one-stop-shops for South Carolinians who need access to federal, state and nonprofit resources as the state rebuilds after Hurricane Helene.
    Click here to watch Graham’s video on Team South Carolina Days
    Graham said, “I know it’s been tough on our state. There has been so much devastation. I’ll be working with Governor McMaster and Lieutenant Governor Evette to host Team South Carolina Days where we will get federal, state and local people together so you’ll know where to go to get the services you need.”
    Graham concluded, “I know people are hurting out there. I believe this will help.”
    Team South Carolina Days will include representatives from South Carolina state agencies to assist with a variety of services including information for seniors, veterans, and children, and information concerning insurance and unemployment benefits. Officials from the Small Business Administration (SBA) will be on hand to provide information on disaster loans for small businesses. The South Carolina Office of Resilience will be able to provide assistance with applying for disaster relief and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will attend to take applications for individual assistance. Several nonprofits are expected to be in attendance as well.
    Please see below for information on the Team South Carolina Days that have been announced.
    Serving Pickens, Anderson, and Oconee Counties:
    Wednesday, October 9
    10:00 am – 4:00 pm
    Clemson Littlejohn Coliseum
    219 Perimeter Road
    Clemson, SC 29634
     
    Serving Spartanburg and Cherokee Counties:
    Thursday, October 10
    10:00 am – 4:00 pm
    University of South Carolina Upstate
    Health Education Complex
    300 N. Campus Blvd
    Spartanburg, SC, 29303
     
    Serving Greenville County:
    Friday, October 11
    10:00 am – 4:00 pm
    Greenville Technical College
    Student Success Center
    506 South Pleasantburg Drive
    Greenville, SC 29607
    Additional Team South Carolina Days will soon be announced for the weeks of October 14 and 21 for other impacted counties.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Renewable Energy Sector – Lake Pūkaki – back in black and on the right track

    Source: Meridian Energy

    The level of New Zealand’s largest hydro storage lake – Lake Pūkaki – is above the 91-year average for the first time since May.

    “All the rain we missed from April to August finally arrived in September,” says Meridian GM Wholesale Chris Ewers.

    “We’ve been managing our hydro lakes extremely carefully for months now, but there’s nothing like a helping hand from Mother Nature.”

    Lake Pūkaki had been below average for more than 150 days, and at historically low levels as recently as mid-August, before weeks of heavy rain and snowfall changed the outlook. Over the last week Pūkaki rose 715mm to just over 525m above sea level – 102% of average for this time of year.

    “The last few weeks have more than exceeded our expectations.”

    “September felt wet, and it was. The Waitaki catchment, which feeds Lake Pūkaki and the Waitaki Hydro Scheme, had its fourth wettest September on record,” says Chris Ewers.

    But it’s not just water in the lakes that’s welcome. In the mountains above the Waitaki catchment, snow storage is now sitting at 117% of average.

    “That’s great news for later in the season as that snow melts and feeds the lakes throughout the warmer months. After a challenging winter, we couldn’t have asked for a better start to spring.”

    The historical average level of Lake Pūkaki changes over the course of the year, and spring is generally when levels are at their lowest due to high demand for electricity and less rainfall throughout winter.

    The ongoing favourable conditions continue to ensure wholesale prices (also known as spot prices) are kept in check. The average North Island price was down $5 to $78 per megawatt hour and the average South Island price was down $5 to $69.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Stats NZ information release: Tatauranga umanga Māori – Statistics on Māori businesses: June 2024 quarter

    Source: Statistics New Zealand

    Tatauranga umanga Māori – Statistics on Māori businesses: June 2024 quarter – information release – 8 October 2024 – Tatauranga umanga Māori – Statistics on Māori businesses: June 2024 quarter presents information on one subset of Māori businesses that contribute to our country’s economy. This release includes data on Māori authorities and related businesses. It does not cover all Māori businesses in Aotearoa New Zealand.

    Māori authorities are defined as businesses that receive, manage, and/or administer assets held in common ownership by iwi and Māori. Māori authorities are largely identified through their tax codes as registered with Inland Revenue. Any business within a Māori authority ownership group is also included for the purposes of Tatauranga umanga Māori.

    Key facts
    In the June 2024 quarter, around 1,450 Māori authorities and related businesses were in the Tatauranga umanga Māori population.

    All figures are actual values and are not adjusted for seasonal effects.

    In the June 2024 quarter compared with the June 2023 quarter:

    • the total value of sales by Māori authorities was $1,057 million, up $4.3 million (0.4 percent)
    • the total value of purchases by Māori authorities was $774 million, down $25 million (3.2 percent)
    • the total number of filled jobs for Māori authorities was 12,100, up 390 jobs (3.3 percent)
    • the total value of earnings by employees of Māori authorities was $219 million, up $15 million (7.4 percent)
    • Māori authorities exported $216 million worth of goods, up $5.6 million (2.7 percent).

    Visit our website to read this information release and to download CSV files:

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Education – Ara Creative Industries collab with ‘Planetary Emergency’

    Source: Ara Institute of Canterbury

    An October collaboration is a providing a chance for the talented staff of Ara’s Creative Industries Department to put their own practice on display.
    ‘Planetary Emergency’ at the Arts Centre’s Pūmanawa Gallery from 7 to 13 October is a multidisciplinary exhibition by tutors and technicians in art and design – their work responding to current environmental and social issues.
    Curator Dorothée Pauli said the artists and designers involved chose the theme as a collective and have responded to it in a variety of media, including textile design, fashion design, photography, printmaking, painting and mixed media works.
    “The theme was settled on two years ago when we discussed a combined research outcome. We have a strong commitment to research of course, as we teach at the graduate and post graduate level at Ara,” Pauli said.
    “The exhibition highlights the creative spirit at the heart of our department, and how artistic practice engages with, and comments on, complex contemporary issues,” she added.
    Pauli’s own contribution is the essay supporting the exhibition which contextualises the various works. Ara’s Visual Communication Design tutor Carl Pavletich designed the publication bringing her words and the works together.
    In it, Pauli notes that Ara staff had approached the exhibition with a united sense of purpose, continuing a long tradition in the history of the visual arts seeking to “bear witness to what we see is happening around us”.
    “We accept that art alone cannot change the world but assert that our personal actions matter and that the uniquely human capacity for aesthetic creativity privileges us to advocate for the survival and dignity for all life on earth,” she wrote.
    The exhibiting artists include Holly Liberona, Denise Mill, John Hill, Rach Winter, Stefan Roberts, Kim Lowe, John Osborne, Deb Marshall, Julie Humby, Sandra Thomson, Wendy Clarke, Katharina Jaeger, Oliver Perkins, Carol King and Jane Schollum.
    Besides their teaching and research commitments in their respective fields, a significant number of the exhibitors maintain an independent creative practice.
    “Daily, our focus is the growth and development of our ākonga, seven of whom achieved Master’s qualifications in Ara’s recent Spring graduation,” Pauli said. “Investment in their work can take precedence over our own practices but ‘Planetary Emergency’ is a rare chance to express our own expertise.”
    It’s been three years since staff have collaborated in this way, and a project they had embraced enthusiastically.
    “They’ve all responded differently. Some have pushed planetary emergency awareness and environmental concerns; others allow more room for personal interpretation of the work. The audience will take away what they will take away,” Pauli said.
    Current art and design ākonga said they felt honoured to attend the exhibition opening.
    “It’s the first time we’ve had a chance to see their work. It’s like putting a face to a name,” second year Applied Visual Arts student Amy Carpenter said.
    “They can be a bit shy about talking about themselves or sharing what their own practices may look like. To be able to have more of an understanding of their work is great.”
    Supported by the Ara Institute of Canterbury Research Fund, Planetary Emergency is on for just seven days in the heritage Pūmanawa Gallery at the Christchurch Arts Centre. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Arts – $25,000 CLNZ | NZSA Writers’ Award has been awarded to writer Mark Derby

    Source: The New Zealand Society of Authors (NZSA) Te Puni Kaituhi O Aotearoa (PEN NZ) Inc

    Mark Derby has been awarded the 2024 Copyright Licensing New Zealand (CLNZ) and The New Zealand Society of Authors (NZSA) Te Puni Kaituhi O Aotearoa (PEN NZ) Inc, CLNZ | NZSA $25,000 Writers’ Award for his project, with the working title, ‘Outlaw Prophet – Hakaraia Mahika and the Tauranga Wars,’ This book is an account of the New Zealand Wars in the Bay of Plenty, with a focus on an extraordinary spiritual and military leader.

    Mark Derby says “I’ve been intrigued by the impressive, mysterious 19th century Bay of Plenty prophet Hakaraia Mahika for decades, ever since I saw a mention to him in Belich’s The New Zealand Wars, as a leader who deserves more attention from historians. Since then I’ve been gathering archival and other information about Hakaraia in a piecemeal manner, while writing other projects such as Waitangi Tribunal reports in the Bay of Plenty region. This generous grant is the spur I need to turn that large body of information into a book. I’ve also recently been asked by Hakaraia’s descendants to contribute to tribal wānanga about their tūpuna and his legacy, and it’s an honour to support local Māori to engage with their own history in this way. The NZSA|CLNZ grant means I can participate fully in these wānanga at no cost to anyone else. I am very grateful for it.”

    The CLNZ | NZSA Writers’ Award is one of the annual investments made through the CLNZ Cultural Fund and is open to writers of any genre of non-fiction, including writers of education material. The award enables the successful applicant to devote time to a specific writing project. This year’s winner, Mark Derby is a Wellington writer and freelance historian.

    On the applications overall, convenor Dr Vanda Symon said, “It was heartening to see such a high number of entrants for this year’s  Writers’ Award across a diverse field of topics. The range of works included everything from local history to biography and memoir to educational projects to works tackling topical issues of today. The quality and significance of the entrants made for a tough time for the judges. Our congratulations to the finalists and the winner.”

    Judging panellist Jade Kake said of Derby’s project, “Hakaraia Mahika (Tapuika), a once (in)famous and perhaps controversial actor in the New Zealand Wars and a contemporary of the likes of Wiremu Tamihana, Rewi Maniapoto and Te Kooti, has since receded from sight and is now a little-known figure. An important new contribution to New Zealand history profiling a significant figure in the New Zealand Wars who has largely been forgotten by the history books.”

    While Elizabeth Kirkby-McLeod, the third judge on the panel, said that “This project is of strong Aotearoa New Zealand interest and gives much needed attention to the Bay of Plenty wars and I am convinced Mark Derby has the track record to deliver.”

    The judging panel also highlighted Barbara Dreaver’s project Voyaging the Pacific and Jane McCabe’s project Taiwhenua: Family Land in Rural Aotearoa, which were both shortlisted for the Award.

    The New Zealand Society of Authors (NZSA) Te Puni Kaituhi O Aotearoa (PEN NZ) Inc was proud to administer the award this year. CLNZ and NZSA would like to thank all the writers who took the time to apply and to this year’s judging panel of Dr Vanda Symon, Jade Kake and Elizabeth Kirkby-McLeod.

    Copyright Licensing New Zealand (CLNZ) plays a key role in making creative rights valuable assets for all New Zealanders, be they rightsholders like writers, publishers and artists, or users of creative works such as educators, students and businesses. CLNZ manages the Cultural Fund, which derives its revenue from licensing income.

    The New Zealand Society of Authors Te Puni Kaituhi o Aotearoa PEN NZ Inc is the principal organisation representing writers in Aotearoa. Founded in 1934, it advocates for the right to fair reward and creative rights, administers prizes and awards, works across the literary sector to make Aotearoa New Zealand writers and books more visible, and runs professional development programmes for writers. authors.org.nz

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: $15 million program bringing international visitors back to Tropical North Queensland

    Source: Minister for Trade

    A resurgence in international visitors to Tropical North Queensland is being supported by a $15 million Australian Government program.

    The International Tourism Recovery Program has delivered 28 campaigns so far, generating bookings in the last financial year for 20,000 Chinese visitors, who it is estimated will inject $37 million into the local economy.

    The second year of the $15 million program, rolling out from 1 July 2024, is expected to create even stronger demand for the world-class tourism experiences in the sunshine state’s tropical north, including the Great Barrier Reef.

    The return of Cathay Pacific flights between Hong Kong and Cairns from December through to March is projected to bring in up to 13,000 additional international visitors, who are projected to collectively spend an estimated $20 million in the region.

    China was the region’s largest international market before the pandemic, accounting for one in four international visitors and injecting more than $200 million a year into the regional economy.

    Tropical North Queensland is one of Australia’s tourism regions that is most economically dependent on international visitation.

    The International Tourism Recovery Grant Program is providing Tourism Tropical North Queensland (TTNQ) with grants worth up to a total of $15 million over three years, helping to bring more international visitors to Tropical North Queensland.

    Quotes attributable to Senator Don Farrell, Minister for Trade and Tourism:

    “Queensland’s tropical north is a spectacular place that has always been a personal favourite, a sentiment I share with many Australians and people from around the world.

    “We understand how important international visitors are for tourism in the region and, having spoken with many local business operators, I know the challenges they’ve been facing.

    “I am pleased that the Albanese Labor Government’s support is bringing back more Chinese visitors to this remarkable part of our country where they can dive into the underwater wonders of the Great Barrier Reef or be guided by local First Nations peoples on a Dreamtime walk through one of the world’s oldest rainforests.”

    Quotes attributable to Special Envoy for the Great Barrier Reef, Senator Nita Green:

    “The Great Barrier Reef brings tourists from all across the world to Cairns and Far North Queensland.

    “Tourism is the lifeblood of our region, and welcoming international guests is vital to the success of our communities.

    “I am so proud that our Government’s investment in TTNQ is supporting the return of Chinese visitors to this incredible part of the country.”

    Quotes attributable to Mark Olsen, CEO – Tourism Tropical North Queensland:

    “The support from the International Tourism Recovery Program has given the region a boost when it needed it most, as our international numbers have been slower to recover than the capital cities.

    “China was our region’s single biggest international market in 2019, one in three Chinese visitors to Queensland came to see Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef. Rebuilding demand from China is vital with Cathay Pacific returning in December.

    “The 28 trade campaigns have been supported by a coordinated approach, with a publicity push generating over $16.5 million. Roadshows are bringing our operators back into China as a region – bringing back key trade partners to experience Tropical North Queensland and all the great experiences here first-hand.”

    MIL OSI News –