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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Climate change conferences in Turkmenistan across all velayats

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Climate change conferences in Dashoguz, Balkanabat, Turkmenabat, Buzmeyin and Ashgabat.

    The Local Conference of Youth (LCOY) stands as a unique and significant platform for students.

    With encouragement and support from the President of Turkmenistan (and in the lead up to the 29th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP 29) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change), a series of youth conferences on climate change were held in Turkmenistan across all ‘velayats’ (regions) including: Dashoguz, Balkanabat, Turkmenabat, Buzmeyin and Ashgabat. These events brought together young people to discuss current environmental issues and looked at finding ways for Turkmenistan’s youth to actively participate in solving problems related to climate change.

    The Local Conference of Youth (LCOY) participants

    The Local Conference of Youth (LCOY) is a unique and significant platform, as the youth-led climate initiative fully supported by the Turkmen government. This initiative was introduced by the British Embassy in Turkmenistan back in 2021, supported by the United Nations Coordinators Office and other UN agencies. Fellow embassies have since lent their support, including the Embassy of the United Arab Emirates in 2023 and the Embassy of Azerbaijan in 2024. The biggest leaders of this movement are however the Sustainable Development Goal Ambassadors and climate activists who have campaigned throughout the years.

    The Local Conference of Youth (LCOY) stands as a unique and significant platform

    Hosting the series in different cities has allowed local youth to address climate issues specific to each location. This ensures that local challenges are recognised and tailored solutions are developed to meet needs. Through LCOY, Turkmenistan’s youth are at the forefront of driving change, positioning themselves as critical players in the challenges against climate change.

    Updates to this page

    Published 26 September 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: The UK Government’s Regional Development Director visits Ashgabat

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    The UK delegation led by the UK Government’s Regional Development Director visited Ashgabat from 9 to 15 September 2024.

    Sarah Cooper, Regional Development Director FCDO presents at the Forum.

    The UK Government’s Regional Development Director; Regional Climate Adviser; and Regional Private Sector Development Adviser visited Ashgabat from 9to 15 September, 2024.

    The UK Government’s Regional Development Director, Regional Climate Adviser and Regional Private Sector Development Adviser in Ashgabat.

    The objective of the visit was to explore areas of mutual co-operation between the UK and Turkmenistan on areas including climate change, economic, social development, and education partnerships.

    The UK Government’s Regional Private Sector Development Adviser speaks at the Forum

    During the visit, the FCDO team had the opportunity to meet with government representatives covering energy; water; economic development and social protection. The team also met development partners including bilateral partners and UN agencies.

    The visit will pave the way for further UK engagement in Turkmenistan across a number of areas:

    • small and medium enterprise development
    • climate change, for example, through a flexible fund to support climate adaptation for communities
    • building education partnerships with UK universities, including continuing professional development for teachers, especially on English language

    Updates to this page

    Published 26 September 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: AFRICA/SUDAN – El Fasher: humanitarian situation out of control

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Khartoum (Agenzia Fides) – Five months of siege and fighting have worn down the population of El Fasher, the capital of North Darfur. The city is considered the last remaining stronghold of the Sudanese armed forces in a region (see Fides, 5/5/2024) that is now almost entirely controlled by the rival Rapid Support Forces (RSF) of General Mohamed Hamdan “Hemedti” Dagalo.More than 1.5 million people are at risk in the city, which has been under siege since April-May, and in the nearby Zamzam refugee camp, 15 km south of El Fasher, where about 260,000 children live and where the humanitarian situation is increasingly deteriorating.Soldiers from a division of the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and militiamen from several local armed groups fighting the RSF have barricaded themselves in the city. A coalition of heterogeneous forces united only by their common opposition to the RSF, which has so far managed to hold out against Dagalo’s forces.Last week, the town was hit by a fierce Rapid Support Forces offensive that was narrowly repelled, with heavy casualties on both sides, as shown by satellite photos showing recently dug mounds of earth likely to indicate the creation of mass graves.Faced with the deteriorating humanitarian situation in El Fasher, the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights (a body set up in 1987 by the then African Union Organization, now the African Union) has issued a call for a cessation of fighting. “The African Commission condemns in the strongest terms the atrocities being committed against the civilian population in the context of the ongoing fighting in El Fasher, which seriously endanger the hundreds of thousands of refugees who have found refuge in the town,” it said in a statement on September 21. “The African Commission on Human Rights urges the parties to the conflict to cease all acts of violence against civilians and to fully respect the principles of discrimination, necessity and proportionality under international humanitarian law.”The “Forum of International Non-Governmental Organizations in Sudan” (Sudan INGO Forum) has, for its part, appealed to the international community at the UN General Assembly to intervene to end the conflict in Sudan that broke out in April 2023. “Sudan is experiencing a man-made food crisis of historic proportions, largely caused by the actions and decisions of the parties to the conflict in violation of international humanitarian law,” the non-governmental organizations said. “As of August 2024, more than 25 million people in Sudan are at risk of acute food insecurity and at least 755,000 people could die of catastrophic famine in the coming months if the international community does not act urgently and decisively,” it said.More than 10 million people have fled their homes since the conflict began in April 2023, making Sudan the world’s largest internal displacement crisis, affecting more than 5 million children and over 2 million people who have fled across borders to neighboring countries. Some health facilities report five child deaths per day. (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides, 26/9/2024)
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    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Hong Kong: Stand News journalists ‘jailed for doing their job’

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Responding to the jail sentences for “sedition” handed to two former editors at the defunct Hong Kong media outlet Stand News, Amnesty International’s China Director Sarah Brooks said: 

    “The jailing of two journalists simply for doing their job makes this another bleak day for press freedom in Hong Kong.

    “The fact they are the first journalists to be sentenced to jail on colonial-era ‘sedition’ charges since before the Hong Kong handover of 1997 indicates that there has rarely been a more dangerous time to work in media in the city.

    “Just like the numerous other ‘sedition’ and national security convictions of activists, teachers and lawyers that we have seen in Hong Kong in recent years, today’s sentencing looks designed to reinforce a ‘chilling effect’ that dissuades others in the city – and beyond – from criticizing the authorities. It is rule by fear.

    “Once again, we urge the Hong Kong authorities to stop using ‘sedition’ and other national security-related laws as a pretext to crack down on press freedom and other human rights. The two journalists sentenced today have committed no internationally recognized crime and their convictions should be quashed.”

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Samsung Expands Energy-Saving Innovations to Help Customers Get Ahead of Peak Energy Season

    Source: Samsung

     

     
    LONDON, UK – SEPTEMBER 26, 2024 – Today, Samsung Electronics UK announced innovations that provide users with smarter and more efficient ways to control their energy. The company unveiled new technology and partnerships to optimise energy usage throughout the home.
     
    Ahead of Winter, Samsung UK revealed a host of advancements powered by SmartThings Energy: eco-tech provider Hive’s thermostats will be integrated into SmartThings from the middle of October, so customers will benefit from an extension of the British Gas PeakSave program, and Tesla technology will also be compatible with the SmartThings App.

    Increased SmartThings Connectivity with Hive Integration
    To further simplify how users manage their energy usage at home, SmartThings Energy is integrating Hive’s thermostats, so that households can control their home’s temperature directly through the SmartThings app.
     
    The integration of Hive thermostats allows consumers to check their home’s current temperature and set new temperature targets as well as setting at home temperatures when customers are on the move. Installing a Hive Thermostat can save customers up to £172 per year on their heating bill[1]
     

     
    Maximising Energy Savings through Leading Partnerships
    In partnership with British Gas, Samsung UK is also helping households better manage their energy use and make savings when it comes to their energy bills. The expansion of the collaboration between Samsung and British Gas allows SmartThings Energy users to automate appliances, and other connected products, as part of British Gas PeakSave.
     
    The PeakSave program rewards customers for reducing their electricity usage during peak hours, to times when there is more renewable energy readily available. SmartThings Energy users can automate appliances’ operating modes during these times, allowing them to easily take advantage of periods when electricity is half-price due to there being lots of renewable energy available, and rewards users for shifting their electricity to when there is less demand. So far, British Gas has paid over £13 million to 650,000 customers taking part in the scheme.
     
    Boosted Home Energy Experience with Tesla Energy API for UK users
    Energy-saving starts within the home, but it doesn’t need to stop there. Earlier this year at CES Samsung announced its collaboration with Tesla for SmartThings Energy and now UK users can benefit from this increased connectivity, allowing users to easily access information relating to users’ energy production, storage and usage via SmartThings Energy.
     
    Made possible through Tesla’s open APIs, the expansion of SmartThings Energy allows users to connect with their Tesla Powerwall, and Solar Inverter for a more streamlined smart home experience.
     
    In addition to making it easier to manage energy consumption, this integration allows for better preparations for power disruptions and outages. SmartThings syncs up with the Tesla app’s Powerwall ‘Storm Watch’ function – meaning in the case of extreme weather events users can be alerted through SmartThings on their connected Samsung TV’s and mobile.
     
    Deborah Honig, Chief Customer Officer, Samsung UK and Ireland, comments: “We know that controlling energy consumption is a top priority for our customers, and as we head into winter this becomes an even bigger priority.
     
    “We are continually evolving our SmartThings energy management features and extending our partnerships with British Gas and Tesla, to make it even easier and more intuitive for customers to manage their home energy usage.
     
    “By providing new automated tech solutions that help our customers save time, money and energy, we are seeing even more people do that ‘little bit extra’ every day to take of their home and the planet.”
     
    Dan Rosenfield, Managing Director of Hive, added: “We are delighted to be extending our partnership with Samsung to energise a greener, fairer future for our customers. As we head into Winter, we are making it easier for our customers to save money on their energy bills and cut carbon through integrating our market-leading propositions into the SmartThings app.”
     
    SmartThings is the only place where Tesla Powerwalls, British Gas PeakSave, Samsung Smart Home appliances, and Smart Meters can be managed in one place to optimise the use of energy across the home. These new partnerships and innovations are part of Samsung’s drive to enhance the multi-device experience of SmartThings users.
     
    [1] Saving of £172.17 based on a Ofgem typical annual gas consumption of 11,500 kWh at the October 2024 UK average unit price of 6.238 pence per kWh including VAT. Emissions saved per year: 508 kg CO2 (0.184kg per kWh). Actual savings will vary depending on individual circumstances./span>
     

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI: BNB Chain and UXUY Telegram Wallet Join Forces to Integrate 1,000 DApps into Social Scenarios

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Singapore, Sept. 26, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — BNB Chain, home to the world’s most active on-chain ecosystem, and UXUY, the first decentralized multi-chain wallet on Telegram, have announced a partnership. This collaboration will integrate BNB Chain with Telegram through UXUY Wallet, leveraging its excellent compatibility and scalability, marking a critical step towards the mass adoption of Web3.

    The focus of this partnership is to make Web3 more accessible, ensuring users can seamlessly manage BNB through UXUY Wallet and enabling the integration of 1,000 DApps into social scenarios. As of September 26, popular DApps like PancakeSwap and Four.Meme have already been integrated, significantly enhancing BNB Chain’s accessibility and influence.

    Kevin, founder of UXUY, stated, “As a product incubated and invested in by Binance Labs, UXUY is excited to collaborate with BNB Chain and contribute to the integration of BNB Chain with Telegram. This positions UXUY as a vital gateway linking Web3 with social scenarios. Future collaborations will expand across areas such as social trading, Meme ecosystems, DApp integration incentives, and the organization of Hackathons.”

    About BNB Chain

    BNB Chain is a leading blockchain ecosystem designed to support the growing demands of the decentralized web (Web3). Offering a unique combination of speed, scalability, and affordability, BNB Chain has become a popular choice for developers building decentralized applications (DApps) and for users seeking to participate in the world of decentralized finance (DeFi).

    About UXUY

    UXUY is a next-generation multichain infrastructure incubated and invested in by Binance Labs. UXUY creates the first decentralized multi-chain wallet and DApp application center based on Telegram. Bringing 900 million users into the multi-chain crypto ecosystem.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Publicly Traded Tritent International Corp. and Burst Technologies, Inc. Sign MOU to Outline Strategic Merger Plans

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LAS VEGAS, Sept. 26, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Tritent International Corp. (“Tritent”), a US public company (US OTC: TICJ), and Burst Technologies, Inc. (“Burst Technologies”), a Delaware corporation, are pleased to announce the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (“MOU”) that outlines the key terms and conditions for a proposed strategic merger. The MOU was officially executed on September 24, 2024.

    In a groundbreaking move to enhance healthcare billing efficiency, Burst Technologies and Tritent are excited to announce their potential merger, which introduces the build out of an AI-accelerated billing solution designed to recover Medicare Part B costs for nursing homes across the United States where in most cases currently goes unrecovered. This innovative technology aims to streamline billing processes, reduce administrative burdens, and ensure that nursing homes receive maximum reimbursement for these products and services.

    Key Benefits of Burst’s AI-Accelerated Healthcare Solution

    Maximized Reimbursement: Nursing homes can achieve direct recovery of Medicare Part B costs, significantly improving their bottom line.

    Efficiency Boost: Automated processes reduce the time and effort required for billing, freeing up staff and resources to focus more on patient care.

    Enhanced Accuracy: Technology and AI-driven algorithms minimize errors and optimize claim submissions and help ensure compliance with Medicare and insurance regulations.

    Key Points of the MOU

    This proposed merger is designed to enhance the capabilities and market presence of both organizations by integrating Burst Technologies as a wholly owned subsidiary of Tritent.

    Merger Structure: Under the proposed terms, Tritent will become the primary entity, and Burst Technologies will be integrated as a wholly owned subsidiary, ensuring operational continuity and strategic alignment between the companies.

    Governance and Management: Post-merger, key management and operational roles within Tritent will be filled by executives from Burst Technologies. Additionally, Burst Technologies will appoint a majority of the Board of Directors of the merged entity, ensuring a cohesive leadership team.

    Share Exchange: As part of the merger, Tritent will issue common restricted shares in accordance with the Definitive Share Exchange Agreement, facilitating the acquisition of Burst Technologies.

    Good Standing and Compliance: Both companies have committed to maintaining good standing with relevant regulatory bodies and ensuring compliance with all applicable laws, including those set forth by the OTC Markets, FINRA, and the State.

    Mutual Responsibilities: The MOU emphasizes the spirit of cooperation, transparency, and mutual respect between the parties. Both Tritent and Burst Technologies will work together diligently to finalize the Definitive Share Exchange Agreement and ensure the success of the merger.

    Market Size: Burst Technologies has developed a multi-year financial plan, focusing on expanding its client base and boosting revenue inside the Nursing Care Facilities and Continuing Care Retirement Communities representing 4%, or $180 billion, of the $4.5 trillion National Healthcare Expenditure (NHE) marketplace1.

    “This MOU represents an exciting opportunity for both companies to leverage each other’s strengths and drive growth in our respective markets,” said Reno J. Calabrigo, CEO of Tritent International Corp. “We are confident that this merger will create significant value for our shareholders and position us for long-term success.”

    Eric Hansen, CEO of Burst Technologies, added, “This partnership marks the first step toward making the nursing home industry a leader in technology. We’ll start by building the first AI-driven billing solution specifically for nursing homes. From there, we’ll continue pushing boundaries to bring fresh innovation to an industry ready for transformation. Our goal is not just to modernize long-term care, but to set a new tech standard for the entire sector, and we’re confident this merger offers an exciting path for our shareholders.”

    The MOU sets the framework for the negotiation and execution of a Definitive Share Exchange Agreement, which both parties expect to finalize in the coming weeks.

    About Burst Technologies, Inc.

    Burst is building out an AI-accelerated healthcare billing solution designed for America’s nursing homes, addressing a critical gap where many Medicare Part B supply costs currently go unrecovered. Currently, Burst supports 30 nursing homes and over 3,000 residents, ensuring they receive the healthcare returns they deserve. With a market size serving 1.6 million elderly residents across 16,700 facilities, Burst can ensure that essential Medicare reimbursements are accessible, transforming the way nursing homes manage healthcare billing. With a focus on healthcare inclusion, Burst’s success-based model allows any nursing home to sign up at no upfront cost, delivering reimbursements directly to their bank accounts. For more information please visit, http://www.burstmedicalbilling.com.

    About Tritent International Corp.

    Tritent International Corp. (US OTC: TICJ) is focused on the acquisition of controlling equity interests in disruptive companies by taking an active role to improve their growth, provide capital and management expertise.

    For more information, please contact:

    Tritent International Corp.
    Reno Calabrigo, Director
    Email: info@tritentintlcorp.com

    Burst Technologies, Inc.
    Eric Hansen, Director
    Email: Eric@Burstbilling.com

    Safe Harbor Statement

    This Press Release may contain certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The Company has tried, whenever possible, to identify these forward-looking statements using words such as “anticipates,” “believes,” “estimates,” “expects,” “plans,” “intends,” “potential” and similar expressions. These statements reflect the Company’s current beliefs and are based upon information currently available to it. Accordingly, such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which could cause the Company’s actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from those expressed in or implied by such statements, as well as other risks discussed from time to time in our filings with OTC Markets, including, without limitation, our latest Quarterly Report filed on August 13th, 2024. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or advise in the event of any change, addition or alteration to the information catered in this Press Release, including such forward-looking statements.

    Footnote

    1: references Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, Office of the Actuary, “National Health Expenditures 2022 Highlights” https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/national-health-expenditures-2022-highlights

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/65b45d29-324a-4e7c-8687-64bd4f854a51

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Security: IAEA Assistance Helps Liberia Avert Radiological Emergency

    Source: International Atomic Energy Agency – IAEA

    A recovered Cs-137 radioactive source was safely transferred to this ISO container during an IAEA Fact Finding Mission to Monrovia, Liberia in May 2024. (Photo: F.Baciu/IAEA)

    Liberia has moved to fast track its accession to nuclear safety treaties, after IAEA experts helped prevent a radiological incident from shutting down the country’s main hospital. 

    In May 2024, the Environmental Protection Agency of Liberia reached out to the IAEA’s Incident and Emergency Centre (IEC) for assistance after staff detected an unidentified radioactive source in a maintenance room at the John F. Kennedy Medical Centre in Monrovia. 

    If the source had not been managed swiftly, it could have led to significant disruptions, adversely impacting thousands of patients. 

    The IAEA developed a plan and deployed a fact-finding mission team comprising the IEC response system coordinator and a disused sealed sources specialist, who arrived in Monrovia on 21 May. By the following day, the source was secured and the hospital could continue its work uninterrupted.   

    Liberia’s request for assistance was made pursuant to the operational arrangements under the framework of the Convention on Assistance in the Case of a Nuclear Accident or Radiological Emergency, which sets out an international framework for co-operation between State Parties  and the IAEA to facilitate prompt support. Liberia was not a party to this convention at the time but joined it and five other IAEA legal instruments at the IAEA 68th General Conference.

    “The Assistance Convention does not mandate that only parties may receive international assistance. Emergencies are events which overwhelm available resources for response. Even a relatively minor event can become an emergency in the absence of the appropriate resources and training,” explained Florian Baciu, IAEA Response System Coordinator in the Department of Nuclear Safety and Security. “International assistance is therefore available to any State which requires it, to mitigate the impact of a nuclear or radiological emergency on their territory.”  

    In Monrovia, the IAEA mission’s objective was to prevent the temporary closure of the JFK Medical Centre, an essential facility for the country’s healthcare. The radioactive source, identified as Caesium-137, is an artificially produced radionuclide widely used in medical and other fields. The team surmised that the source belonged to a disused brachytherapy machine. Brachytherapy is a type of internal radiation therapy that uses radiation sources to treat tumours. The machine had likely been placed in the hospital’s scrap metal facility after it was decommissioned. This incident highlighted the need for proper handling and disposal of radioactive sources in the country, especially for disused medicine equipment. 

    During the mission, the IAEA team conducted a detailed radiation survey, confirmed the isotope was Caesium-137, and safely removed the source from a stormwater drain in the former scrap metal facility – which is now the hospital’s maintenance room. The source was then secured in a shielding container provided by the Liberian Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and transported to a secure storage location. The IAEA team also completed a radiological survey of the area and concluded that it was extremely unlikely that anyone had been exposed to levels of radiation high enough to cause health problems. This rapid response helped to alleviate anxiety in members of the public and the hospital staff, and to address misinformation about the potential hazards to health as a result of the incident. 

    The Executive Director of the EPA, Emmanuel K. Urey Yarkpawolo said: “The prompt assistance provided by the IAEA demonstrates the Agency’s commitment to building nuclear safety frameworks and supporting Member States in assessing and addressing their unique needs and urgencies. The mission did not only address the immediate concerns of the Liberia Government, but also underscored a proactive approach to preventing small issues from escalating to bigger problems. The quick response by the IAEA during our time of need further highlights the broader scope of the Agency’s work which transcends beyond emergency response to encompass comprehensive assistance.”  

    Baciu agreed: “The collaboration with the local authorities was seamless, and their proactive approach facilitated this swift action. Our goal is to provide countries with support to ensure that they are able to respond effectively to any type of emergency, irrespective of scale.  We also encourage more States to join the IAEA’s Assistance Convention, as this allows for quick and formal communication channels to receive assistance and support promptly.” 

    IAEA Fact Finding Mission team members conducting a radiation survey and preparing equipment at the JFK Medical Centre during the recovery of a Cs-137 radioactive source from a storm water sump in the hospital’s maintenance room. (Photo: Liberian Environmental Protection Agency).

    The IAEA and the Liberian EPA will work together to define ways in which the IAEA can help ensure that all radioactive sources in the country are used and disposed of safely and securely. Among the projects under discussion are assistance to establish a national registry of radiological sources, training for Liberian experts on managing sealed radioactive sources, the provision of equipment and other assistance, improving facilities for nuclear and radiological emergencies, and strengthening the safe and secure management of radioactive sources in Liberia. The IAEA will also continue to support Liberia through its technical cooperation programme, providing training and resources to enhance the country’s capability in the safe and secure management of radioactive sources. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Translation: 25/09/2024 Varsovia | Sejm Government information in the Sejm regarding actions taken in connection with the flood

    MIL ASI Translation. Region: Polish/Europe –

    Fuente: Gobierno de Polonia en poleco.

    El primer ministro Donald Tusk presented to the Sejm information on the government’s work so far in connection with the flood that is sweeping through Poland. Ministers involved in aid activities also presented their reports. The last few days have seen numerous crisis teams, meetings with injured residents of flooded areas, and work on solutions that will make it easier to deal with the effects of flooding. One thing is certain – thanks to the actions of the services, residents and volunteers, a larger disaster was avoided. Thanks to the “silent heroes” The head of government began his speech by thanking the inhabitants of the areas affected by the state of natural disaster, the services, and everyone involved in providing help. “Without this, the gigantic effort of tens of thousands of people there and hundreds of thousands of people who in various ways show solidarity and practical help to those fighting the flood, we would not have had it with this greatest downpour in history,” said the Prime Minister from the parliamentary rostrum. Much damage was done during the flood. houses and apartments as well as roads, bridges, schools, clinics, the hospital in Nysa was also flooded. However, thanks to people’s efforts, the damage will be much less than during the flood in 1997. “According to preliminary assessments, the destroyed and flooded residential premises this year, despite this great flood, the largest in history, will probably be 10 times less than in 1997″ – Donald Tusk informed. Thanks to the efforts of residents and state services, many towns were saved. We also protected large cities such as Wrocław and Opole. “When another staff briefing was held in Wrocław this morning, I saw the relief of the Lower Silesian Voivode and the President of Wrocław when they could confirm the forecast from the last hours that the state of alarm on the Oder in Cław was a thing of the past ”- noted the Prime Minister. From the very beginning, the Prime Minister and the Ministers monitored the situation in places that were threatened by high water, including: Kłodzko, Głuchołazy, Nysa, Jelenia Góra, Wrocław, Głogów, Nowa Sól and Szczecin. Pre-emptive actionsThe state acted from the first hours, when alarming forecasts from the Institute of Meteorology and Water Management regarding upcoming heavy rainfall appeared. Local crisis meetings, as well as those with the participation of the Government Center for Security, the Ministry of Interior and Administration and the services, were held from Wednesday, September 11. “On September 11, the RCB sent a message informing about the threat. Immediately after receiving this information, I ordered a briefing to be organized with the services and voivodes of the voivodeships that were at risk, recommending that all actions be taken to prepare for the flood,” emphasized the Minister of Internal Affairs and Administration, Tomasz Siemoniak. Another crisis meeting was held on September 12, this time under the leadership of Minister T. Siemoniak. The next one is on Friday, September 13, in Wrocław, with the participation of the head of government. “On Friday 13, the morning forecast was: the rainfall would not be as heavy as we forecast the day before. On Friday evening, the forecasts deteriorated again,” explained Donald Tusk. From the very first moments, the government did not ignore forecasts and warnings and took action to secure endangered places. “From the first day, we called on all residents and repeated it every day, many times: do not ignore the fire brigade’s recommendations. and the police about the need to evacuate. From the first hours, the fire brigade, police and army reached places that were not yet flooded but at risk,” noted the Prime Minister. Soldiers from the Territorial Defense Forces were also involved in the activities from the very beginning. “The Polish Army has been involved in the activities from the very beginning. actions to protect the life and health of the population and in all activities related to the fight against floods,” said the Deputy Prime Minister and head of the Ministry of National Defense, Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz, in the Sejm. and the police were on standby even before the high waters arrived. The services secured crisis places and ensured the safety of residents. “The first hours were devoted primarily to rescue. […] First of all, it was necessary to save human life, health and property and belongings of these people. This was the first, most difficult phase,” noted Donald Tusk. The second phase of assistance is ad hoc support. The government has secured funds to fight the effects of the flood. Each injured party can receive PLN 10,000 in emergency support. “Currently, over PLN 30,000 of these benefits have been paid within a few days. […] There will certainly be no shortage of funds,” the head of government emphasized. Flood victims can also receive up to PLN 100,000 in non-refundable support for the renovation or reconstruction of farm buildings. In the case of residential buildings, they can apply for up to PLN 200,000 in non-refundable support. “Wherever it is necessary to rebuild from the foundations or relocate residents from clearly flooded areas, or reconstruction will not make sense – the state will take on the organizational and financial effort,” he assured. Primer Ministro. Yesterday, the Council of Ministers adopted a draft bill containing provisions that are intended to facilitate the fight against the effects of the flood and help those affected. We will not leave people alone. The government has secured funds in the state budget to help those affected by the flood. We will also receive financial support of PLN 20 billion from the European Commission. Ministries also organize aid from their own budgets. “On Saturday we will amend the draft budget. Currently, we will have approximately PLN 23 billion at our disposal for eliminating the effects of the flood, emergency and financial assistance, repairs and reconstruction of infrastructure, as well as for Reconstruction Plus,” said the Prime Minister. Every person who has been left without a roof over their head can count on for state aid. No one will be left without a safe shelter. “We need to provide temporary places of residence, it may be a modular house, a container or, in the short term, a hotel for which we will pay,” said Donald Tusk. The Prime Minister assured that the fire brigade and army will continue to help in removing the effects of the flood. “We will have the forces of the army and fire brigade on site until this action of cleaning, drying and adapting these places to life again ends,” the head of government emphasized. The Reconstruction Plus program will lead to new infrastructure will be built in places affected by the flood, which will guarantee greater security in the future. Transparency of state activities. Crisis meetings held in southern and western Poland were broadcast by the media. Thanks to this, everyone could listen to the current report on the activities of the government, local government and services, as well as get acquainted with the current meteorological and hydrological situation. “I have consistently tried to make information on the flood situation available to all interested parties at least twice a day. This was necessary because there was a huge wave of disinformation that could impede the work of the services,” noted the Prime Minister. The Internal Security Agency was also involved in work for information security, which, among others, detained a person spreading false information about blowing up the embankments. Social media accounts were also detected that spread disinformation related to the flood in Poland. Commitment and dedication of the services. The great heroes of recent days are firefighters, soldiers and policemen who ensure the safety of residents in flood areas around the clock. “At the moment, 25 units are still assigned to the operation. thousand soldiers, 20 thousand are involved in direct operations. At the peak, there were over 25,000 soldiers engaged in the fight against the flood and removing its effects,” informed the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defense. As part of the activities of the Polish Army, over 1,300 units of military equipment were deployed. Additionally, engineering troops were involved in the activities, clearing 129 km of roads and making 27 reconnaissances of damaged bridges. 125 Patrol and Transport flights were also carried out. 4,539 people were evacuated, including 98 people by helicopter. “The army operates in all domains, it also takes care of serving meals. Since the beginning of the campaign, 18,000 have been spent. meals for civilians and 27,000 meals were distributed. liters of bottled water. So far, 48 military tankers have delivered approximately 1.4 million de litros de madera to various towns affected by the flood,” said Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz. All services cooperated together for a very important purpose. The services’ action is still ongoing and will continue as long as necessary. The entire government was involved in anti-flood activities and those related to the effects of the flood. A total of 14 Ministers presented reports on the activities of their ministries to the Sejm.

    MILES AXIS

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  • MIL-OSI Translation: 26/09/2024 Deputy Prime Minister W. Kosiniak-Kamysz in the Sejm: The Polish Army has been involved in all activities related to the fight against the flood from the very first hours

    MIL ASI Translation. Region: Polish/Europe –

    Fuente: Gobierno de Polonia en poleco.

    From the very first hours, the Polish Army has been involved in actions protecting the life and health of the population, helping citizens, and in all state activities related to the fight against flooding. (…) At this moment, over 25,000 are still assigned to the operation. soldiers. 20 tips. soldiers of the Polish Army are taking part in the action directly at this moment. At a key moment, at the peak of involvement, there were over 25,000. soldiers involved in the fight against the flood and removing its effects – said Deputy Prime Minister W. Kosiniak-Kamysz during his speech in the Sejm. On September 25, in the Sejm, the Government presented information on the involvement of the services in the fight against the flood and removing its effects. All types of armed forces were used in fighting the flood. All these actions that we carried out were fully coordinated with the activities of the State Fire Service and Police under the leadership of the crisis staff – noted the head of the Ministry of National Defense at the beginning of his speech. In his speech, the Deputy Prime Minister emphasized that the military’s actions began immediately after the end of the meeting of the Government Security Center on 11 September. On September 11, the Territorial Defense Forces recognize it. On September 12, the formation of military task groups begins. The command of this action is entrusted to the commander of the Territorial Defense Forces, General Krzysztof Stańczyk, who from that moment on commands the entire operation – not only the territorial defense troops, but also the operational troops assigned to the operation. From that moment, four military task groups are formed: in Lesser Poland, Greater Poland, Silesia and Lower Silesia… (…) From September 12, engineering task groups separated from operational troops are created with eight green helicopters, self-propelled transporters, sailing with sappers’ boats, with troops engineering. On September 12, commanders of WOT brigades establish close cooperation with services and territorial administration bodies. As a result, they direct liaison officers to 6 provincial crisis management centers and 4 district and 11 municipal centers. September 13, when the headquarters is held in Wrocław under the chairmanship of the Prime Minister. Oh dios. 14 at the General Staff in Warsaw, with the participation of the most important commanders, I receive a report from the Chief of the General Staff, the Commander of the Territorial Defense Forces and the General Commander of the Armed Forces about the readiness of 4 task teams, task groups and 5 engineering teams. They are going into action, they are the first to be launched on September 13 in the Opole Voivodeship in Głuchołazy, said the head of the Ministry of National Defense, informing about the army’s activities. The head of the Ministry of National Defense informed that direct actions were directed, among others, to: over 1,300 units of military equipment, including 758 passenger vehicles and trucks, 17 sanitary vehicles, 43 bulldozer-loaders, 59 dump trucks, 19 PTS, 40 sappers’ boats. Further actions that were taken concerned the engineering component. (…) Engineering troops have been present in operations from the very beginning. Now they are carrying out activities analyzing the places where the bridges broke. Special teams have been identified. Engineering troops carried out operations to unblock 129 kilometers of roads. They reconnoitred 27 damaged bridges in four locations: Głuchołazy, Krapkowice, Stronie Śląskie, Lądek, Zdrój. Corrective actions are already underway. The crossing is being carried out. The engineering forces will again build temporary bridges using the DMS-65 structure obtained from the Government Agency of Strategic Reserves. The reconstruction of temporary road infrastructure is being carried out in most towns, said Vice Prime Minister Kosiniak-Kamysz. One of the important tasks carried out by the army was air support. 125 air missions were completed. And there are patrol and transport flights, those that dropped 744 big bags. 4,539 people were evacuated, including 98 people using helicopters. The army also provides water and food to residents of the affected areas. It also supports their Distribution. Since the beginning of the campaign, 18,000 meals have been served to civilians and 27,000 liters of bottled water have been distributed. 48 cisternas have so far delivered 1.4 millones de litros de agua to various towns affected by the flood. The Polish Army also provides medical assistance in post-flood areas. A military hospital was established in Nysa, which has so far admitted about 400 patients. The couple shows how much involvement was needed in this operation as well. Seven mobile clinics have been established, not only outpatient clinics, but also specialized clinics. The military sanitary inspection has been involved, informed the Deputy Prime Minister. The next steps include the operation of the chemical forces component. There are 8 teams working to disinfect rooms. Disinfection is underway in schools, kindergartens, public places, as well as, if necessary, in households and farms where water has reached and a full return to functioning and normality is needed – said the Deputy Prime Minister of the Ministry of National Defense to the Sejm. The Head of the Ministry of National Defense informed about Operation “Feniks”, launched on September 23, aims to support the activities of residents and local governments in cleaning up and rebuilding post-flood areas. We have activated a multi-wave, multi-month Operation Feniks, aimed at rebuilding, tidying up and returning not only to the state before the flooding and damage, but as the Prime Minister indicated the direction at his staff, to raise the quality of these places, the usability of these places to the best possible standard. The bromear couple is very important to us that the quality of life and normality return there as soon as possible – said the head of the Ministry of National Defense. At the end of the speech, the head of the Ministry of National Defense thanked all the soldiers of the Polish Army, commanders, their subordinates, officers, non-commissioned officers, all of them for their boundless dedication. Bromear loves one of you proud. All those who benefit from your help are grateful to you. To Minister Siemoniak, I would like to thank the firefighters of the State Fire Service, the Police, all uniformed services subordinated to the Ministry of Interior and Administration and all the firefighters of the volunteer fire brigades, all those who showed up to fight the flood in extraordinary numbers. Minister Klimczak is responsible for all services related to the unblocking of communication routes – railways, road workers, transport workers. But most of all, on behalf of not only myself, but also all of us, I would like to thank the solidarity and brotherhood of Poles, which always wins, said the head of the Ministry of National Defense.

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  • MIL-OSI Translation: 26/09/2024 Solutions for entrepreneurs affected by floods

    MIL ASI Translation. Region: Polish/Europe –

    Fuente: Gobierno de Polonia en poleco.

    Each taxpayer affected by the flood may apply in the manner provided for in the Tax Ordinance for the cancellation of tax liabilities. Entrepreneurs affected by the flood may take advantage of extended deadlines for payment of IVA, PIT and CIT taxes. Victims have extended deadlines for submitting JPK_VAT, summary information, the vast majority of VAT returns. A 0% VAT rate applies to donations of goods and services provided in connection with assistance to flood victims, the same rate applies to donations of building materials for the reconstruction or renovation of flood-damaged properties. We enable the use of additional tax reliefs. Injured entrepreneurs will receive a refund of the costs of purchasing cash registers up to PLN 2,000. A special hotline is operating for flood victims. The Ministry of Finance has prepared regulations that contain a number of solutions intended for victims of the September flood. In the scope not covered by the regulation, each taxpayer affected by the flood may apply in the manner provided for in the Tax Ordinance for the cancellation of tax liabilities. We are extending tax payment deadlines Entrepreneurs affected by the flood have extended tax payment deadlines for IVA, PIT and CIT. In the case of VAT, the deferral of tax payment is valid until 25 January 2025. In the scope of PIT and CIT, the deferral applies to tax advances and taxes due for August-December 2024. Entrepreneurs will settle the tax only in their annual tax return. A similar solution will apply to the flat-rate tax on recorded revenues, the so-called minimum tax on buildings and those CIT taxpayers whose tax year is different than the calendar year. The postponement also applies to the tax paid to the tax office for employees of affected companies. The above solutions apply to taxpayers and payers affected by the flood, having a place of residence or registered office or management board, respectively, and conducting business in the areas of municipalities covered by the state of natural disaster. At the same time, we are postponing the deadlines for submitting monthly and quarterly VAT declarations, summary information and JPK-VAT until November 25, 2024 (this applies to those declarations and information whose deadlines for submission fall in the period from September to October 2024). Additional tax reliefs In the event of transferring ownership of fixed assets to affected entrepreneurs free of charge or financing their purchase, entrepreneurs have the option of including depreciation write-offs in the costs of obtaining income until the end of the next calendar year. Entrepreneurs lending fixed assets to affected persons have the option of continuing depreciation write-offs and including them in the costs of obtaining income revenues.These reliefs are valid until the end of the next calendar year, subject to the second (applies throughout the entire depreciation period).In terms of stamp duty, exemption from official acts, issuing certificates or permits, submitting a power of attorney, proxy, its extract, extract, copy in matters related to the removal of the effects of flooding – submitted/issued on July 15, 2025.IVA 0% en donationsThe 0% IVA rate is applied to donations of all kinds of goods, e.g. food, blankets, sleeping bags, clothes, but also free services, such as accommodation or rental of power generators, which may be necessary to mitigate the effects of the disaster.The solution can be used by entrepreneurs making donations for purposes related to helping flood victims. It concerns support implemented through entities, usually public benefit organizations, local government units, medical entities and the Government Agency for Strategic Reserves. The 0% rate may be applied to donations made from September 12 to December 31, 2024. Details in the announcement. IVA 0% for donations of building materials for flood victims From September 24, 2024, a regulation has been in force allowing the application of a 0% VAT rate for donations of building materials transferred to victims whose real estate was destroyed as a result of the September cataclysm. The 0% rate applies to donations of such materials transferred directly to: natural persons, entities conducting activities: education, cultural, in the field of health care, social care, care for children, youth and the elderly, in the field of collective accommodation of pupils and students,

    whose properties are located in the municipalities affected by the disaster and who have the formal right to dispose of these properties. The 0% rate may be applied to donations of building materials made from the date of entry into force of the regulation, i.e. September 24, 2024, March 31, 2025. The aim of the solution is to facilitate the reconstruction or renovation of buildings and structures destroyed by the flood, and thus a faster return to normal life for residents of the area affected by the disaster. Details in the announcement. Reimbursement of the costs of purchasing a cash register In response to the demands of entrepreneurs from areas affected by the flood, the Ministry of Finance is introducing a refund of the costs of purchasing cash registers up to PLN 2,000. This solution applies to entrepreneurs who lost their cash registers as a result of the flood, who have a place of residence or registered office or management board, respectively, and who conduct business in the areas of municipalities affected by the natural disaster. Additionally, producer and importer of cash registers associated with the National Chamber of Commerce for Electronics and Telecommunications (KIGEiT) declared their assistance to entrepreneurs in carrying out tests of cash registers that were damaged in the flood, as well as a special offer for entrepreneurs who lost their cash registers as a result of the flood. Helpline and taxpayer service points There is a special helpline that taxpayers affected by the flood can call. The helpline is open on weekdays from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. From 8:00 to 18:00, phone number 22 460 59 30. Tax authorities will consider applications from flood victims first, and certificates for affected taxpayers (on income, revenue, no arrears) will be processed “on the spot”, both submitted directly to tax offices or electronically. In tax offices where direct service is not possible, taxpayers are served via remote channels. Affected taxpayers can submit applications at any nearest tax office. To facilitate and speed up assistance to victims, temporary taxpayer service points may be created, depending on the needs.

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  • MIL-OSI Translation: The Government of the Canton of Aargau visits Grisons

    MIL OSI Translation. Region: Italy –

    Source: Switzerland – Canton Government of Grisons in Italian

    At the invitation of the Grisons government, the government of the Canton of Aargau visited the Canton of Grisons yesterday and today.

    During its visit to the Canton of Graubünden, the delegation from the Canton of Aargau was led by Landamman Markus Dieth. He was accompanied by Deputy Prime Minister Dieter Egli, State Councillor Stephan Attiger, State Councillor Alex Hürzeler, State Councillor Jean-Pierre Gallati and Chancellor Joana Filippi as well as Government Spokesman Peter Buri.

    Yesterday, the government received its guests in the Sinergia administrative building in Chur. There, at the beginning of their meeting, the two delegations took part in a joint guided tour of the administrative building. They then travelled to Davos Monstein where they visited BierVision Monstein AG, one of the most beautiful breweries in Europe. They then spent the night on the Schatzalp.

    Today’s program included a visit to the AO Forschungsinstitut, a world leader in preclinical research in traumatology and orthopedics. A presentation by Prof. Dr. Rico Franc Valär on the importance of Romansh and Italian in the Canton of Grisons, followed by lunch, concluded the program.

    The focus of the visit of the Government of the Canton of Aargau was on the maintenance of friendly relations and the exchange of experiences in the cultural, economic and political fields.

    Photograph:

    The Aargau government and the government of the canton of Grisons in front of the Sinergia administrative centre in Chur

    Prime Minister Jon Domenic Parolini with Landamman Markus Dieth

    Contact person:

    Prime Minister Dr. Jon Domenic Parolini, Director of the Department of Education, Culture and Environmental Protection, e-mailJondomenic.Parolini@ekud.gr.ch

    Competent body: Government

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

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  • MIL-OSI Translation: ASIA/BANGLADESH – The trials of Bangladeshi Christians and the support for the Rohingya (with the help of the Pope): interview with the Apostolic Nuncio

    MIL OSI Translation. Region: Italy –

    Source: The Holy See in Italian

    Thursday, September 26, 2024

    by Fabio BerettaDacca (Agenzia Fides) – “The situation in Bangladesh”, where Christians represent just 0.30% of the population, “is very delicate. In general, Christians live peacefully, but there have been cases in which they have suffered abuse and bullying from their neighbors.” This was told by Archbishop Kevin Randall, Apostolic Nuncio in Bangladesh since 2023, who, when asked by Fides about the recent meeting he had with the Chief Advisor of the transitional government, outlines a cross-section of society and the commitment and support of the local Church and the Pope Francis in support of the Rohingya. After the protests and social tensions, what is the situation in Bangladesh? The situation in Bangladesh is very delicate. With an interim government some are wondering when there will be elections. Others want to rewrite the Constitution. Others say an interim government has no authority to rewrite the Constitution. In the meantime, mob violence dominates the country and the rule of law is reduced. How are Christian communities experiencing this historical moment? In general, Christians live peacefully, but there have been cases in which they have suffered abuse and bullying by of their neighbors. The police are helpless. After Sheik Hasina left the country, many officers became afraid and went into hiding. They left their uniforms to wear civilian clothes and no longer went to work. Do the Christian communities have specific expectations or feelings compared to the rest of the population? Yes, the Christian community hopes that the provisional government will protect the minorities in this transition period. Christian villages are under threat because there are those who aim to take over their land, even if they come from the same ethnic group as them. Many citizens, whether Christian, Buddhist or Hindu, are treated as unwelcome people, “as if they were foreigners”, when they are not. The Constitution declares that Bangladesh is a secular state with an official religion: Islam. But there are those who confuse the expression “official religion of the State” with the idea that “minorities do not belong to this land” and that this is “an Islamic State”. During the meeting with Muhammad Yunus, Chief Advisor to leadership of the provisional government, the need to “protect” minorities emerged. Where does this concern come from? According to the 2022 census, Christians in Bangladesh represent 0.30% (about 500,000 believers) of the national population. There have been cases of threats against villages, homes and especially schools. In many Catholic schools there have been intimidations leading to several teachers being fired. Some Muslims told school leaders that their children would dress in a certain way, especially if they were girls. But wearing the burqa is against our uniform regulations. With Dr. Yunus I discussed issues that concern Christians, as well as Buddhists and Hindus. It must be remembered that the Hindu minority is around 8%. They had many temples destroyed, their shops were burned. Dr. Yunus agreed that all minorities need protection and is trying to establish a law that would bring order. Recently, the creation of an interreligious dialogue body between the Holy See and scholars of Islam in Bangladesh has been suggested. How was this idea received? The idea of ​​having an interreligious dialogue is not mine. The Dicastery for Interreligious Dialogue, through a letter, asked for it but already years ago, when Cardinal Jean Louis Tauran was head of the then Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue. Tauran himself, during his trip here to Bangladesh, spoke about it with former prime minister Sheik Hasina. I raised this idea with Sheik Hasina and, more recently, asked Dr. Yunus and his team to think concretely about this possibility. The concept was well received, but I think they have other concerns. With respect to this project, are there already concrete steps for its realization? No, but they can be proposed. We can’t force it. Unlike the United Arab Emirates, where Pope Francis signed the document on fraternity, or Indonesia, where the same Pontiff signed a new document on tolerance praising the “friendship tunnel” that connects the cathedral to the mosque in Jakarta, In Bangladesh, interreligious dialogue does not find much support, even when it is practiced at the level of academic discussions. On humanitarian assistance to Rohingya refugees, the Chief Councilor asked for the support of the Vatican. How can this request be taken into consideration? The Chief Councilor did not ask me for help from the Holy See, as reported by various media. He has asked for the Holy See’s support in the reforms he and his team are carrying out but not in terms of financial help, including with regards to the Rohingya. It was I who asked the Chief Adviser, on behalf of the Pope, to continue to help and protect the Rohingya. I explained that the Catholic Church’s Caritas organization has been helping displaced people continuously since 2017, but that funding is dwindling. Before my departure for Bangladesh, Pope Francis asked me not to forget the Rohingya. These migrants were experiencing violence in their own country and came here for help. But unfortunately, the Rohingya are perceived by the Burmese as an ethnic and religious group that belongs to “this country”, Bangladesh. Cardinal Patrick D’Rozario and I paid an official visit. The living conditions are very difficult. Children and young people are not given any education. Additionally, by law, 25% of our assistance must go back to the local community. I am happy to announce that the Pope is sending further financial aid. This gesture of his will help many. (Agenzia Fides 26/9/2024)Share:

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

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  • MIL-OSI USA: UConn Firsts: First Day of Classes – Sept. 28, 1881

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    Editor’s Note: This is the inaugural post in a new series called UConn Firsts, celebrating noteworthy students, faculty, milestones, and moments from across the history of the University of Connecticut. 

    The UConn of today – with its 14 schools and colleges, more than 30,000 students, and degrees in more than 125 majors – was probably hard to imagine on that distant September morning when 11 students, all male, began the first day of classes at what was then known as Storrs Agricultural School. Within short order, women began attending class, the curriculum expanded, and the little school in Mansfield was well on its way to becoming one of the great public universities in the country, thereby answering the question posed in an editorial that September by the Hartford Courant: “What is the Storrs Farm School to be? Lots of people are curious to know. In general terms it will be what the genius of the people of Connecticut pleases to make it.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: UConn Health’s Human Subjects Protection Program Earns AAHRPP Reaccreditation

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    UConn Health’s Human Subjects Protection Program (HSPP) has earned reaccreditation from the Association of Human Research Protection Programs, Inc. (AAHRPP). AAHRPP is an independent, non-profit accrediting body created to ensure that HRPPs across the nation meet rigorous standards in their policies, procedures, practices, and protections. 

    “AAHRPP is the gold standard,” says Michael Centola, associate vice president for research integrity at UConn Health. “As programs, we are required to abide by regulations. This accreditation shows that our program meets standards that are higher than what is required.”  

    HSPP oversees all research at UConn Health involving human subjects and their data. This broad range of activity includes clinical, bio-medical, social-behavioral, and retrospective research; clinical trials for drugs or devices; psychiatric research; research involving children; industry-sponsored evaluation of investigational drugs; internally funded research initiated by faculty; and two institutional review boards (IRBs).  

    AAHRPP reaccreditation is a lengthy, multi-step process much like what hospitals undergo to be reaccredited. A lot of preparation goes into the submission process, which takes about two years, says HSPP administrative manager Julia Blair.  

    The first phase includes a self-evaluation of all procedures and the preparation of a roughly 1,000–page application document, which Blair’s office submitted in June 2023. A site visit by AAHRPP followed in March 2024, during which evaluators talked to researchers and research staff.  

    “It’s a lot of folks participating in our process and contributing to our success in this effort,” Blair says.  “It’s a team effort.”  

    Anything flagged by evaluators must be addressed. But, in the case of UConn Health, no concerns were noted. In fact, the AAHRPP report held up the UConn Health HSPP as an example of how things should be done, noting a long list of strengths that included engaging with community-based organizations, consultations between researchers and the community about potential research projects, and use of surveys and other instruments to ensure that researchers were meeting the communities’ requests and needs.  

    “What that says is that UConn Health takes the protection of human subjects very seriously,” says Centola. “Institutions accredited by AAHRPP must have systems in place for participants, recording requirements, outreach and education for participants, and even conflict of interest committees — guardrails to ensure that anyone with a conflict of interest is appropriately managed.”   

    Stakeholders include faculty, staff, IRB members, and members of the Scientific Review and Conflicts of Interest Committees, Office of Clinical and Translational Research Services, Sponsored Program Services, Research Pharmacy and Research Safety, and many others.   

    Centola praised Blair and her team for driving the many steps of the reaccreditation process to a successful conclusion. Issued in June, the final report from AAHRPP grants UConn Health HSPP full reaccreditation for five years. The program received its first three-year accreditation in 2006 through the leadership of then-HSPP director Dr. Richard Simon and has consistently achieved five-year reaccreditations in the years since.  

    “Dr. Simon guided us all those years,” says Blair. “Given his commitment to high standards, we were not surprised our program successfully attained reaccreditation once again.” 

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  • MIL-OSI USA: UConn 4-H’s Teen Council Provides Youth with Statewide Leadership Experience

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    A host of research studies have found that youth with leadership experience have advantages later in life, including cognitive ability, salary, and gender equity. UConn 4-H, which is a program administered by UConn Extension, understands how important leadership experience is, and its programs assist youth in acquiring leadership experience, along with knowledge, and life skills.

    Nationally, 4-H uses the thriving model to help youth with developmental and long-term outcomes. Programming opportunities include community clubs, individual projects, after-school programs, and camps, among others.

    UConn 4-H’s State Teen Council works to educate and enhance 4-H in Connecticut through statewide activities, civic engagement, and facilitating programs that occur at the club, county, and state levels. The Teen Council consists of two youths from each of Connecticut’s eight counties. Council members meet monthly and conduct community service, leadership, and civic engagement activities for UConn 4-H members statewide to build leadership, community, and connection among the county 4-H programs.

    UConn 4-H youth participate in Citizenship Day activities. (Contributed photo)

    Rylee Judson of Tolland joined UConn 4-H at age seven after visiting the 4-H fair. She is currently a member of the UConn 4-H Teen Council, serves on the Tolland County 4-H Fair Board, and is a member of the Paca Pals 4-H Club, a club devoted to alpacas.

    During Judson’s 10 years as a 4-H member, she’s shown alpacas, had a poultry project, and this year she had a small engine project too.

    “Being able to bond with the alpaca and almost train them is rewarding,” Judson says. “They listen to you once you make a bond.”

    The 4-H model helps youth progressively build upon their experiences and offers teens regional and national opportunities. Youth work together at national events on issues affecting their communities, while also gaining valuable leadership and civic engagement experiences.

    Judson represented UConn 4-H at Citizenship Washington Focus and was one of four delegates from Connecticut at the National 4-H Conference in Washington, D.C., this past April. In November, she’s attending the National 4-H Congress in Atlanta.

    “It’s so amazing being able to connect with people from throughout the United States and America Samoa too and seeing their beliefs and what 4-H means to them,” Judson says.

    The Teen Council helps plan state 4-H programs, including Citizenship Day, held each April in Hartford. This year, the Council presented a community-building workshop on civic engagement for attendees and a leadership workshop for UConn 4-H members at the UConn Storrs campus where youth participated in mock meetings.

    “Teen councils are vital for empowering young leaders and enhancing the impact of 4-H in our communities,” says Maryann Fusco-Rollins, an assistant extension educator in 4-H and youth development. “In 2019, I was first approached about starting a UConn 4-H Teen Council by two 4-H members who had recently returned from several national trips. They recognized the potential for a teen council in Connecticut, inspired by what they had seen in other states. Together, we worked with the UConn 4-H team to bring this vision to life.”

    The Teen Council’s initiatives and role help ensure the youth voice is present and drives programming, creating authentic programs that address the needs and current issues youth members are facing.

    “This is my first year in Teen Council; I want to build my leadership and public speaking skills, connect counties, and pass that on to younger 4-Hers so they can get involved,” Judson says.

    The Teen Council is once again offering leadership workshops and community service projects statewide. Past initiatives include trail and county cleanups. Overall, the Teen Council members want more youth seeking offices in their clubs and on the county fair associations. Judson believes that her involvement has helped her with forming connections and relating to others, skills that will also help as she pursues a nursing career.

    “You can make lifelong friends in 4-H and have so many great experiences,” Judson says. “4-H is unique from other youth organizations because it gives youth the opportunity to learn life skills in agriculture, public speaking, and leadership, and have the power and a voice in their club or county.”

    Selection is underway for UConn 4-H’s Teen Council for the 2024-2025 academic year. To become involved as a youth or adult volunteer, visit the UConn 4-H website.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Celebrating the Launch of Mockingbird in the D2N2 Region

    Source: City of Derby

    Local authorities across the D2N2 region are proud to announce the launch of Mockingbird, a pioneering and award-winning programme led by The Fostering Network, which transforms the delivery of foster care.

    This innovative model has been successfully implemented across fostering services in Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Derby, and Nottingham (D2N2), creating a strong, resilient, and supportive network for children, young people, and foster families.

    Mockingbird constellations have been established in every local authority fostering service across D2N2. Each constellation consists of up to ten satellite families (fostering households) supported by a Hub Home Carer and a liaison worker. The Hub Home Carer plays a key role by offering both planned and unplanned sleepovers, emotional and practical support, and organising monthly social events to strengthen the bond between families. These events will range from movie nights to picnics and BBQs, creating opportunities for carers and young people to form lasting relationships.

    The Mockingbird programme is funded through the Department for Education’s Fostering Recruitment and Retention grant, which also supports the Foster for East Midlands fostering recruitment hub. With continued success and subject to future funding, the goal is to expand the Mockingbird model even further across the D2N2 region, enabling more foster families to benefit from the programme.

    The official launch event was held in August at the Woodland Adventure Zone, Portland College in Mansfield. Attended by fostering families, key stakeholders, and special guests, the event marked an exciting milestone for the fostering community. Heads of service from each local authority, including Andy Smith, – Derby City Council’s Strategic Director of People Services, Rachel Miller, Nottinghamshire County Council’s Service Director for Children’s Commissioning and Resources, and representatives from The Fostering Network, joined local councillors and colleagues from the Department for Education (DfE) to celebrate this achievement. The Cabinet Members for children from Derby City Council and Nottingham City Council were in also in attendance.

    Mockingbird has been running successfully in England since 2015, with constellations established throughout the country. In recognition of its impact, the programme was awarded the Big Impact Award at last year’s Third Sector Awards, with judges praising it as “a fantastic and innovative project, bringing real change and with demonstrable impact”. They described it as “a sea-change in the way foster care is delivered.”

    Andrea Dore, Mockingbird Team Manager said,

    This event marked the coming together of our fostering families across the D2N2 region to celebrate friendships, having fun, making memories, and building a strong sense of community. I am so proud of what we have all collectively achieved in a few short months.

    This community-based model of fostering is working, and we are already seeing really positive outcomes. Our foster carers feel better supported, and our young people are making friends, enjoying sleepovers, and building relationships with safe, trusted adults outside their immediate fostering families.

    What I love most is that everyone in our fostering families is included in the activities and events we offer, and the support provided by our Hub Home Carers is invaluable.

    Sarah Olowo, Mockingbird Coach from the Fostering Network said,

    I am extremely proud to be part of the Mockingbird launch for D2N2, a lot of hard work and effort went into the implementation phase and launching. It was wonderful to see the Mockingbird model come to life; you can see the foster carers and young people forming their micro communities of support with one another supported by their fantastic hub home carers and liaison workers.

    A truly heartwarming experience seeing the young people of all different ages bonding with their hub home carers and building friendships with one another.  Each constellation is unique, but you can see they share many of the Mockingbird core values as that sense of family, having fun and building safe communities shone throughout the day.

    Andy Smith, Derby City Council’s People Service Director said,

    As the Strategic Director for People Services in Derby I was delighted to represent the four Directors of Children’s Services across Derby, Derbyshire, Nottingham and Nottinghamshire at the official launch of our Mockingbird programme. It was inspiring to speak to carers and hear first hand what a difference being part of a constellation is making to the lives of children and carers, which is even more impressive given that constellations have only been in place for a relatively short space of time. 

    It was clear to see and hear that young people and foster carers are forming friendships and building relationships, with some lovely examples of young people accessing sleepovers for the first time.

    Overall, foster carers told me they are feeling more supported with hubs becoming more self-sufficient. It was a great launch event with a real buzz around the park. Well done and thank you all!

    For information on Mockingbird visit the Fostering Network Mockingbird website or for more information about fostering visit the Foster for East Midlands website or call 03033 132950.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Architectural competition winner crowned for Wolverhampton’s St George’s neighbourhood

    Source: City of Wolverhampton

    This summer saw City of Wolverhampton Council join forces with social impact developer Capital&Centric and the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) to challenge competing teams of renowned architects to put forward their ideas to turn the 5 acre former Sainsbury’s site and historic St George’s Church into a new neighbourhood for the city.

    The team made up of Mikhail Riches and Periscope practices has been crowned the winner.

    Locals flocked to a Dragon’s Den style public consultation event at the University of Wolverhampton at The Halls in July, where each of the 4 teams (made up of 12 collaborating architect practices) pitched their ideas, with people able to give their opinions on their favourite. The competition was overseen by Angela Brady, a former RIBA President.  

    Angela Brady OBE said: “This was a fantastic opportunity for architects to be in competition together, working as a team with other architects to reinvent this disused part of Wolverhampton. All teams came up with vibrant ideas, which made it really hard to pick a winner. 

    “The Mikhail Riches and Periscope team had the edge with their vision, particularly with its retrofitting of the Sainsbury’s building in such an imaginative way. Also the 3 distinct zones they pitched could really create a great future for the area. 

    “This sort of collaboration between Council, developer, RIBA competitions office and architects I think allows a more joined up end result and is a model that other areas should follow.”

    The winning submission proposed a vibrant and varied neighbourhood of sustainable new homes, as well as lush outdoors spaces; boulevards and green streets; shops, cafes and bars; and community spaces.

    They proposed to retain and repurpose parts of the former Sainsbury’s building – in turn saving embodied carbon. The practices have also put the St George’s Church at the heart of the community, surrounding it with new public squares for pop up cultural events, intimate courtyards and social spaces for people to come together.

    The winning design will form the basis of the evolving St George’s masterplan, with a pre planning application submission to follow later this year.

    The announcement comes as part of Wolverhampton’s annual Business Week, that this year explores the power to boost economic growth through housing. St George’s also features as one of the major opportunities in the council’s Wolverhampton Investment Prospectus.

    Councillor Chris Burden, City of Wolverhampton Council Cabinet Member for City Development, Jobs and Skills, said: “St George’s is a fantastic opportunity to create a game changing neighbourhood of which the city can be proud. It’s a critical part of our citywide plan to unlock investment in considered development that delivers much needed homes and new opportunities for our communities.

    “The architects teams all produced outstanding design proposals and we are relishing the opportunity to work with the winners, Mikhail Riches and Periscope, to further develop their ideas.

    “It is fitting that this news comes during Wolverhampton’s Business Week, with its flagship event, the Business Breakfast, focusing on economic growth through housing, and we believe St George’s provides the opportunity to set a new design benchmark for brownfield regeneration in the city.”

    Developers Capital&Centric are leading delivery of the St George’s site, drawing on their experience of repurposing historic spaces and building standout new neighbourhoods across the UK, all with an acute focus on social impact. With a competition winner now selected, their next step will be to draw up more detailed designs.

    John Moffat, joint managing director at Capital&Centric, said: “From start to finish the St George’s architectural competition has been inspiring, from the variety of designs the architect teams put forward, to the people that came out to have their say on the options. The decision was a tough one, but the design by Mikhail Riches and Periscope is a deserved winner. 

    “St George’s is a standout opportunity to take a redundant city site and turn it into something special for the community – retaining some of the existing buildings whilst creating interesting and welcoming new spaces where people want to spend time. We’ll be spending the next few weeks looking over the winning design with the team of architects and the council to fine tune the plans, so it’s primed for us to submit a phenomenal pre-planning application submission.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Homes England visit promotes strength of partnership work in hitting housing targets Sheffield welcomed Homes England to the city so development partners could come together and see progress on the latest projects and discuss future opportunities. 26 September 2024

    Source: City of Sheffield

    Sheffield welcomed Homes England to the city so development partners could come together and see progress on the latest projects and discuss future opportunities.

    Homes England Chief Executive Officer Peter Denton visited five sites across Sheffield alongside senior Sheffield City Council representatives and other development partners. The visit was arranged to see first-hand some of the developments that either have recently been completed or are ongoing and has been achieved by those multiple partners.

    The visit was born from the ongoing work of the Sheffield Together Housing Growth Board, which is chaired by the Chief Executive Officer of Sheffield City Council and includes Homes England, the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority, the Sheffield Property Association and the South Yorkshire Housing Partnership.

    This partnership is key for the area in bringing housing experts together to find ways of hitting housing targets and making sure the demand for good quality, safe, affordable homes across Sheffield is met.

    The group visited three different housing sites last Monday (16th September) as well as the newly opened largest purpose-built food hall in Europe, Cambridge Street Collective – which has recently been crowned British Food Hall of the Year 2024 at the British Street Food Awards.

    The trip culminated in a stay at Sheffield city centre’s latest hotel development at the Radisson Blu – part of the ongoing Heart of the City II development.

    The first visit of the day was at the Capital & Centric-developed Eye Witness Works, the former cutlery factory in the city centre’s Devonshire Quarter.

    Here, Sheffield City Council Chief Executive Kate Josephs joined Mr Denton and representatives of Homes England and Capital & Centric to tour the development of apartments and town houses and see some of the new properties available to rent for families and professionals in the city centre.

    After a walk across Sheffield city centre which took in the Pound’s Park development, the visit stopped at Cambridge Street Collective to see the thriving food hall up and running that has recently been crowned British Food Hall of the Year 2024 at the British Street Food Awards.

    WATCH: Homes England visit highlights the benefits of partnership working in hitting targets

    From here, the next stop was the Together Housing development on Meadowsweet Close and Sorrel Way, just off Ferrars Road in Tinsley.

    Here, Council leader, Cllr Tom Hunt, ward councillors, local MP Clive Betts and Homes England representatives were shown around the development by Together Housing Chief Executive Kevin Ruth and other members of the housing association to see how partnerships such as this can build affordable housing for those in Sheffield that need it.

    Finally, Cllr Hunt and the Council’s Chair of the Housing Committee, Cllr Douglas Johnson, met the visit at the Citu-built Little Kelham affordable housing site off Alma Street in Kelham Island to see a range of new affordable homes being built in partnership with Great Places for city residents near to the city centre.

    The visit was a chance to show how, together, partnerships can help regeneration and development projects deliver, increase the number of affordable homes and bring housing and economic growth opportunities to Sheffield.

    Cllr Douglas Johnson, Chair of Sheffield City Council’s Housing Committee, said:

    “The range of partners is really important because the truth is that no single body can produce the amount of new housing that we need in this country right now.

    “We need councils, housing associations, Homes England and private developers to all contribute towards this bigger goal of good quality and imaginative housing for the future so that everyone can have a home they can afford.”

    Kate Josephs, Sheffield City Council’s Chief Executive Officer, said:

    “We’re really proud of the partnership work we’ve led through the Council, with Homes England, with the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority, with housing associations and the Sheffield Property Association.

    “The Sheffield Together Housing Growth Board is all about delivering the homes we need in our city. Together with all our partners, we are pushing ahead to meet our housing targets and provide great new places for people to live in our city.”

    Cllr Tom Hunt, Leader of Sheffield City Council, said:

    “Across the city we are working hard to increase the number of new homes in our city. Everyone should have a safe, secure and affordable place to call home. Good quality homes are fundamental for enabling everyone to live happy, healthy lives.

    “It is great to see new housing developments being completed across our city. I am excited to see more homes being developed in the coming months and years ahead.”

    Kevin Ruth, Chief Executive Officer of Together Housing, said:

    “It was great to be part of Homes England’s tour of Sheffield and to meet so many people who are as passionate about driving support and investment into the city as we are at Together Housing.

    “The growing need for affordable housing is affecting so many in the region, which is why we were thrilled to have Peter Denton and Sheffield City Council members visit our newest housing community in Sheffield to see first-hand the impact of investment. We welcome the prospect of more opportunities for developing communities in the region and hope to see the steps that are being taken to do so, continue.”

    Sheffield City Council is in the midst of agreeing its new Housing Strategy for the next 10 years, which is in its draft stage having gone through two rounds of public consultation this year. The final Strategy is planned to be brought before the Council’s Strategy & Resources committee meeting this autumn for full approval and ratification.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Manchester to host 2025 UK Space Conference

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Space professionals from organisations across the UK will descend on Manchester in July 2025 for the UK Space Conference.

    Sponsored by the UK Space Agency, the biennial event brings together organisations with an interest in space to meet, network, discover business opportunities and help shape the future of the space sector. The event will be held at Manchester Central on 16 to 17 July 2025.

    Dr Paul Bate, Chief Executive of the UK Space Agency, said:

    Following successful conferences in Newport and Belfast, and after opening new satellite offices across the UK this year, we are excited to host the UK Space Conference in Manchester, the world’s first industrial city.

    We look forward to welcoming attendees from across the UK, forging new collaborations and championing the benefits of the space industry as a key provider of jobs, prosperity and innovation.

    The UK space sector generates £18.9 billion and employs 52,000 people – and supports critical national Infrastructure, including energy grids and healthcare services. 

    Colin Baldwin, Executive Director of UKspace, official trade association of the UK space industry, said:

    UKspace is delighted to be supporting the 2025 UK Space Conference. This biennial event, organised by and for the sector through our strong and connected ecosystem, brings us together to discuss key issues and opportunities including addressing skills challenges, supporting fit-for-purpose regulation, spreading sustainability standards and promoting private investment – all of which underpins the long-term health of the sector.

    This first UK Space Conference under the new government will enable the sector to showcase how it plays a significant role in the delivery of the Government’s five missions – high growth, safer streets, clean energy, opportunity for all and a society that is fit for the future.

    In the early 19th century, the rapid growth of Manchester’s cotton industry drove the town’s expansion, putting it at the heart of new, global networks of manufacturing and trade.  The city is now the heart of the wider region’s thriving space sector, which comprises over 180 organisations and over 2,300 space professionals – collectively termed the North West Space Cluster.

    Companies based in Manchester include graphene specialists Smart IR, who are using breakthrough technology to control infrared thermal radiation and Graphene Innovations Manchester, who have ambitions to develop human rated graphene space structures. MDA Space UK is expanding their workforce and operations in all their UK locations, including their site near Manchester Airport, where their growing team designs and delivers digital systems and payloads for telecoms satellites.

    A night time view of Manchester from space. Image: NASA

    The North West sector has been supported by investment from the UK Space Agency’s Local Growth initiative and STFC’s (Science and Technology Facilities Council) industrial cluster development, which is helping to drive its expansion, accelerate innovation and seize commercial opportunities.

    STFC’s Alan Cross, Development Manager, North West Space Cluster, said:  

    From Jodrell Bank’s early breakthroughs to launch vehicle testing at Spadeadam in Cumbria, the North West has a proud legacy of driving space exploration and innovation. Today, as the UK reaches for new frontiers, the North West’s space sector is thriving.  

    Manchester’s satellite manufacturing and the University of Liverpool’s missions to the International Space Station are just two standout examples of this, and the UK Space Conference 2025 in Manchester will showcase this vibrancy and progress.

    Dr Phil Carvil, Head of STFC’s North West Cluster Programmes said: 

    As we leverage space to tackle 21st-century challenges and prepare for humanity’s return to the Moon, the North West Space Cluster is excited to welcome the UK Space Conference 2025 to Manchester.  

    Our businesses and institutions across the region are leading the way in space innovation and collaboration, inspiring our next generations that they too can take part in shaping the future of space and benefiting society as a whole.

    Renowned for being the birthplace of scientists James Joule and John Dalton, and sparking their discoveries in thermodynamics, meteorology and atomic theory, the region now boasts world class expertise in materials science and has unique capabilities in nuclear materials for deep space applications. A University of Manchester lab holds a world-leading range of equipment for simulation of and experimentation into material behaviours in the extreme conditions of space exploration.

    The largest scientific instrument in Human history, the Square Kilometre Array Observatory, is headquartered in Cheshire alongside the University of Manchester’s prestigious Jodrell Bank Observatory. With investment from both the UK and European space agencies, the National Nuclear Laboratory is also developing the next generation of deep space power systems in Cumbria.

    Kevin Craven, CEO of ADS Group said:

    The UK space sector is growing, unlocking significant opportunities for economic growth throughout the UK whilst delivering innovative solutions to domestic and global challenges.

    I’m delighted to see the UK Space Agency take its biannual conference to Manchester and we look forward to the event as an integral part of the space sector calendar.

    In 2023 the UK Space Conference was hosted at the ICC in Belfast and brought over 1,700 leaders together from national and international industry, government and academia to Northern Ireland for three days and generated a direct economic impact of £1.7 million through visitor spend alone. Local stakeholders in Northern Ireland reported that bringing the conference to Belfast provided Northern Ireland with a unique opportunity to promote its capabilities to an influential global space audience as well as to exchange ideas, plans and encourage development and success in the emerging space age.

    Updates to this page

    Published 26 September 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Welfare not warfare: Labour must scrap disgraceful nuclear weapons

    Source: Scottish Greens

    26 Sep 2024 Peace

    Labour claim they can’t afford to give pensioners the winter fuel allowance or scrap the two-child benefit cap, while giving the nuclear weapons programme a bottomless pit of money

    More in Peace

    Speaking on the UN International Day for the Total Elimination of Nuclear Weapons, Scottish Green co-leader Patrick Harvie has urged the Labour government to scrap the Trident nuclear weapons system and use its funding to reinstate the winter fuel payment, scrap the two-child benefit cap and build a fairer, greener future.

    Since entering office, the Labour Chancellor Rachel Reeves has launched a new wave of austerity, cutting the winter fuel payment for pensioners and upholding the cruel two-child benefit cap and rape clause which were introduced by the Tories. However, the Scottish Greens are calling for the UK government to use the money it is pouring into nuclear weapons to reverse these brutal austerity measures.

    Speaking on International Day for the Total Elimination of Nuclear Weapons, Scottish Greens Co-Leader Patrick Harvie said: “Nuclear weapons are an obscene moral evil that should have no place in 21st-century society. Yet, there are still vast numbers of warheads scattered across the planet, and hundreds of them are based here in Scotland on the Clyde.

    “The Labour government claim that they cannot afford to give pensioners the winter fuel allowance or scrap the two-child benefit cap, yet they are yet again marching lockstep with the Tories in committing to giving the nuclear weapons programme a bottomless pit of money.

    “The eye-watering sums that are being poured into nuclear weapons would be far better spent lifting children and families out of poverty and tackling the climate crisis, which is the greatest security threat we face.

    “But even if Trident had no cost implications, keeping it would still be totally immoral. There can never be any justification for weapons which are only capable of indiscriminate mass killing, or the brutal legacy such as those left by the bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki 80 years ago.

    “If we want to take a stand for global peace, we must lead by example. I look forward to the day when an independent Scotland can rid nuclear weapons from our waters and fully commit to the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Status of Digital Financial Literacy in Lakshadweep Islands: Bottlenecks and Way Forward

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    Today the Reserve Bank of India placed on its website a research study titled “Status of Digital Financial Literacy in Lakshadweep Islands: Bottlenecks and Way Forward” under the Project Research Study1. The study is based on the primary data collected from all the ten inhabited islands in Lakshadweep – Agatti, Amini, Andrott, Bitra, Chetlat, Kadmat, Kalpeni, Kavaratti, Kiltan and Minicoy – to analyse the present status of digital financial literacy and digital financial inclusion. While households were the primary unit of enumeration of the survey, SHG members, bank employees, school authorities, students and business-persons in the islands were also interviewed.

    The major findings of the study are the following:

    • All individual respondents in the surveyed islands reported access to bank deposit accounts. Not just access but the usage of deposit accounts was higher with about 90 per cent of the respondents reporting an operation of their accounts for the purposes of savings.

    • Though there was no gender gap in the access to bank deposit accounts, there was a considerable difference between men and women with regard to banking habits in general, usage of deposit accounts in particular. While about 91 per cent of the men operated their accounts by themselves, the corresponding figure among women was 71 per cent.

    • Not just basic literacy but also digital literacy, assessed in terms of possession as well as competency to use mobile phones and computers, was found to be high among the survey respondents.

    • Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) were the most popularly used means of digital banking in the islands. About 90 per cent of the respondents in the islands had ATM cards, while 80 per cent reported an actual usage of these cards. Internet banking was not widely prevalent in the islands and only about 38 per cent of the respondents used mobile banking.

    • Despite a high degree of financial inclusion and digital literacy, a major barrier towards digital financial inclusion in the islands was the poor Internet connectivity; respondents reported apprehensions about digital transaction failures, which often discouraged them from using Internet and mobile banking.

    • Only about 30 per cent of the survey respondents were familiar with digital hygiene habits assessed in terms of usage of public Internet connections, which can be risky; closing of digital payment apps after transactions; and usage of secure passwords.

    In sum, despite being secluded geographically and with limited economic activity primarily surrounding fisheries and tourism, the financial sector in the Lakshadweep islands is well-entrenched primarily on account of banks. Banks have played an important role in the financial inclusion of the islands. Going forward, strengthening of Internet and mobile network connectivity can be a key to expanding digital financial inclusion in the islands.

    (Puneet Pancholy)  
    Chief General Manager

    Press Release: 2024-2025/1162

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Moody’s Affirms Africa Finance Corporation’s (AFC) A3 Rating with a Change from Negative to Stable Outlook

    Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

    LAGOS, Nigeria, September 26, 2024/APO Group/ —

    Africa Finance Corporation (AFC) (www.AfricaFC.org), the continent’s leading infrastructure solutions provider, today announced that it has received an uplift to its credit ratings outlook from Moody’s Investors Service, with the assignment of a “stable” outlook. This decision further solidifies AFC’s position as one of the highest investment-grade African institutions, with Moody’s affirming the Corporation’s long-term issuer and senior unsecured ratings at A3, as well as AFC’s short-term issuer rating at P-2.

    “Notwithstanding increased country risk in several of AFC’s countries of operation over the past year, asset performance has proven resilient amid effective credit protections,” Moody’s analysts stated in its latest report. “The stable outlook also reflects management’s governance track record and early intervention capacity to mitigate materializing risks at an early stage.”

    Moody’s A3 rating affirmation reflects AFC’s adherence to its prudential guidelines to safeguard the Corporation’s intrinsic financial strength based on solid capital adequacy and high-quality liquidity buffers. In FY2023, the Corporation recorded outstanding financial performance with Capital Adequacy Ratio increased to 34.5% from 34.3% in 2022 and Cost-to-Income Ratio improved to 19.6%, from 22.7% in 2022. Additionally, the Corporation recorded Liquidity Coverage Ratios (LCR) of 161% and 143% under normal circumstances and a stress scenario respectively, significantly higher than the Corporation’s LCR requirement of greater than 100% in both scenarios.

    The decision by Moody’s is crucial for AFC to continue leveraging its top-tier credit ratings to achieve among the lowest borrowing costs of any institution in Africa, for transformational infrastructure projects in power, natural resources, transport, and technology that drive rapid industrialisation and job creation on the continent. Landmark initiatives include Djibouti’s first wind farm, with AFC as lead developer advancing plans to become the first African country wholly reliant on renewable sources for energy, and the Lobito Corridor rail project, with AFC again as lead developer working alongside the US, European Union and governments of Angola, DRC and Zambia to mobilise industry and connect the Atlantic and Indian oceans.

    “Amidst the current challenging global macroeconomic and financial conditions, we are pleased to receive such strong endorsement from Moody’s, a key lever in our access to global capital markets,” Samaila Zubairu, President and CEO of AFC, said “It reinforces our position as the resilient and reliable partner for a more prosperous African future and an indispensable ally in mobilising urgently needed capital to build the infrastructure that integrates Africa and enables its industrialisation.”

    “The change in outlook to stable from negative is driven by our expectation that AFC will be able to maintain a stable, if not improving leverage ratio and that the asset performance track record will be preserved.” Moody’s analysts said, commending AFC. “The improved leverage outlook reflects the Corporation’s continued equity raising strategy. The Corporation exceeded its $1 billion target in 2019-23 and aims to raise a similar amount during 2024-28. Moreover, the corporation lowered its dividend payout ratio starting 2023 which will help retain a higher share of earnings and grow the capital base organically in the future,” they reported.

    In the face of uncertainty in the global financial landscape, AFC successfully maintains access to the global capital markets, a testament to the confidence that investors place in the Corporation’s robust credit risk profile and it’s growing global appeal. This year, AFC has completed several pivotal funding transactions including its largest ever debt facility, a US$1.16 billion syndicated loan, attracting new lenders from the Middle East, Europe, and Asia.

    For the full statement from Moody’s, please click here (https://apo-opa.co/3XGd2FV).

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Man charged with murder of man in Haringey

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Detectives investigating the murder of a man, whose body was found in a Haringey flat, have charged a man.

    Police were called at about 21:45hrs on Friday, 20 September, following concerns for the occupant of an address in Moselle Avenue, N22.

    Officers attended and forced entry into the flat, where they discovered the man deceased.

    He has been named as 40-year-old Marvin Dickson. His family have been informed and are being supported by specialist officers.

    On Sunday, 22 September a 36-year-old man, Dante Forrest (15.09.88), of Moselle Avenue, N22, was arrested in the Edmonton area on suspicion of murder.

    He was charged with murder on Wednesday, 25 September and will appear in custody at Highbury Corner Magistrates’ Court on Thursday, 26 September.

    Detectives from the Specialist Crime Command are leading the investigation. A special post-mortem examination held on Sunday, 22 September, found Martin’s cause of death to be blunt force trauma.

    Anyone with information that can assist the investigation is asked to call police on 101 and quote reference CAD 8320/20Sep. To remain anonymous, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or visit crimestoppers-uk.org.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Translation: Decisions of the Council of State of September 24, 2024

    MIL OSI Translation. Government of the Republic of France statements from French to English –

    Source: Swiss Canton of Vaud – news in French

    Breadcrumbs

    vd.ch
    News
    Decisions of the Council of State of September 24, 2024

    Published on 26.09.2024

    The decisions of the Council of State of September 24, 2024 are online.

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

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI Translation: The Council of State presents its ambitious plan for purchasing power and opposes the so-called 12% tax initiative

    MIL OSI Translation. Government of the Republic of France statements from French to English –

    Source: Swiss Canton of Vaud – news in French

    Press release from the Council of State

    Published on September 24, 2024

    Partners

    Tax strategy for individuals

    The Council of State presented today its tax reform strategy intended to support, along with other measures, the purchasing power of the people of Vaud. This “Purchasing Power Plan” aims to redistribute nearly 270 million francs per year to the population by 2027 and represents nearly one billion francs cumulatively over the entire current legislature. It is part of the major balances constructed in the legislative program and constitutes one of the most ambitious cantonal tax reforms for individuals, comprising progressive and financially absorbable measures. This plan serves as an indirect counter-project to the popular initiative “Tax cuts for all: restoring purchasing power to the middle class” – deemed excessive – and which the Council of State opposes.

    Since the beginning of the legislature, the Council of State has taken several measures to strengthen public benefits to the population that have a direct or indirect impact on purchasing power and improving the quality of life: pricing policy for mobility, professional training in the field of health and social policy. In this last area, family allowances will increase from 2025.

    In a context where the financial outlook has deteriorated (inflation, successive crises, deterioration of federal finances), the Government wishes to maintain the major balances forged in its legislative programme and proposes to the Grand Council to reject the initiative for a 12% tax cut which, with an estimated impact of around half a billion francs per year in tax revenue reduction, would have too significant an effect on cantonal finances and services to the population. The attractiveness of a canton is not only measured by its taxation, but also by the range and quality of services provided to the population by its public services.

    By presenting its Purchasing Power Plan, the Government is today making its fiscal commitments a reality. This plan has three ambitious objectives:

    Firstly, reduce the tax burden on Vaud taxpayers; secondly, improve the tax attractiveness of the Canton of Vaud in order to attract new taxpayers; thirdly, guarantee the financing of public policies and services to the population.

    The Purchasing Power Plan is made up of a series of measures, some of which have already been submitted to the Grand Council and others will be submitted shortly. Thus, nearly 270 million francs will be indirectly redistributed to the people of Vaud by 2027, or nearly one billion francs cumulatively over the entire current legislature. Specifically, the Council of State is proposing to the Grand Council a reform aimed at reducing income tax by a total of 5% and wealth tax by 5% by the end of the legislature. It also proposes raising tax thresholds and improving the framework conditions for inheritances and donations, in order to promote family inheritance and the transfer of businesses to direct descendants. These measures are in addition to the increase in the deduction for health insurance premiums, the deduction for childcare costs, and the reduction in the taxation of movable assets, all of which will come into force in 2023.

    An amendment to the law on the effects of the tax shield is planned, as is, for companies, an amendment to the directive on the estimation of unlisted securities for the purposes of wealth tax (working tool).

    In a long-term vision aimed at promoting purchasing power, the Council of State is also launching work to reform the tax scales on income and wealth, targeting the middle class, subject to the completion of individual taxation at the federal level.

    The Purchasing Power Plan is ambitious and serves as an indirect counter-project to the popular initiative “Tax cuts for all: restoring purchasing power to the middle class” which the Council of State opposes. Indeed, while it shares the will and objective of the initiators to improve the purchasing power of the people of Vaud, the Council of State considers that progressive and financially absorbable measures are preferable. The Government considers that the initiative for a 12% tax cut would harm the balance of public finances if accepted, which is why it invites the Grand Council in its notice to reject it.

    Information and Communication Office of the State of Vaud

    Press information only

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    PDF version of the press release

    Other press releases

    This page allows you to find all the press releases published since 1997 by the Council of State, the departments of the cantonal administration, the Grand Council and the Judicial Order. Its shortcut is http://www.vd.ch/communiques. The press releases distributed by other State institutions are available on the following pages:

    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: DLNR News Release – NEW TECHNOLOGY TO CURB INVASIVE COQUI ON OʻAHU

    Source: US State of Hawaii

    DLNR News Release – NEW TECHNOLOGY TO CURB INVASIVE COQUI ON OʻAHU

    Posted on Sep 25, 2024 in Latest Department News, Newsroom

     

    DEPARTMENT OF LAND AND NATURAL RESOURCES

     

    JOSH GREEN, M.D.
     GOVERNOR

     

    DAWN CHANG
     CHAIRPERSON

     

     

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    September 25, 2024

     

    NEW TECHNOLOGY TO CURB INVASIVE COQUI ON OʻAHU

    Drones will control frogs found at higher elevations in the Koʻolau Mountains

      

    (HONOLULU) – Invasive coqui frogs have been found at higher elevations than previous infestations on Oʻahu. The Department of Agriculture confirmed in June, following a report from a citizen, the distinctive chirp of the coqui roughly 200 meters below the summit of Kuliʻouʻou Ridge Trail on the leeward side of the mountains. Surveys were subsequently performed by the DLNR Division of Forestry and Wildlife (DOFAW), and the Oʻahu Invasive Species Committee (OISC).

     

    It is estimated that 13 acres of forest are infested below the Kuliʻouʻou summit on the leeward side. The new infestation site presents several logistical challenges for response efforts. The remote location, steep slopes inaccessible by foot and highly variable weather, prevent crews from using a traditional hose-based spray system to deliver a non-toxic citric food additive mixed with water used to control the frogs.

     

    DOFAW field staffers are planning to use drone technology to apply the citric treatment at these higher elevations. Aloha ʻĀina Drones, a Hilo-based operation specializing in agricultural and conservation drone applications, is contracted to do the work.

     

    In Hawaiʻi, coqui reach densities much higher than in their native Puerto Rico. Their loud calls disturb residents and the invasive frogs have large impacts on local insect communities. Coqui are now widespread on Hawaiʻi Island and are targets of control efforts on Kauaʻi, Oʻahu and Maui.

     

    To date, the frogs have not been detected at lower elevations on the leeward side of the Koʻolau Mountains. Kuliʻouʻou residents and hikers on the Kuliʻouʻou Ridge Trail and Kuliʻouʻou Valley Trail are encouraged to listen for frog calls. Pest reports can be submitted online at 643pest.org or by calling the 643-PEST telephone hotline. Staff from DOFAW and OISC will be present at the October 2, 2024 meeting of the Kuliʻouʻou Neighborhood Board to share information and answer questions about this project.

     

    # # #

     

    RESOURCES 

    (All images/video courtesy: DLNR) 

     

    HD Video – Waimānalo Coqui Frog Eradication (May 16, 2022):

    [embedded content]

     

    Photographs – Coqui Frog Eradication Oʻahu (May 2022):

    https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/0fcd8b4vp1ef9xppjpupn/APqEluEA1r1n21JX5Lg7XhY?rlkey=iqz60cfjk726dcvn0x4tn36dc&st=4mj0y3cp&dl=0

     

    643pest.org Online pest reporting: https://www.643pest.org/

     

    Hawaiʻi Invasive Species Council – Coqui Frogs: https://dlnr.hawaii.gov/hisc/coqui-frog/

     

     

     

    Media Contact: 

    Ryan Aguilar

    Communications Specialist

    Hawaiʻi Dept. of Land and Natural Resources

    808-587-0396

    [email protected]

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom requests Presidential Major Disaster Declaration to support communities recovering from Park and Borel fires

    Source: US State of California 2

    Sep 25, 2024

    SACRAMENTO – Moving to support the ongoing recovery from July wildfires in Kern, Butte and Tehama counties, Governor Gavin Newsom has requested a Presidential Major Disaster Declaration to further assist recovery efforts in communities impacted by the Park and Borel fires.  

    These wildfires both ignited on July 24, 2024, in connection with an extreme heat event in California. The Park Fire burned 429,603 acres, destroyed 709 structures and became the fourth largest wildfire in California history. The Borel Fire burned 59,288 acres and destroyed 223 structures, including the town of Havilah.

    The Major Disaster Declaration request includes FEMA Individual Assistance and Hazard Mitigation programs, as well as U.S. Small Business Administration Disaster Loans and U.S. Department of Agriculture Emergency Loans for residents and businesses affected in Butte, Tehama and Kern counties. 

    A copy of the Major Disaster Declaration request can be found here. 

    “Many Californians are still feeling the impacts of the devastating Park and Borel fires, and this additional federal assistance would help further their ongoing recovery efforts. I thank the Biden-Harris Administration for their consideration and continued partnership and support for our state.”

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    “These communities impacted by the Park and Borel fires have been hit particularly hard. Butte County has seen multiple disasters including the 2018 Camp Fire which became the deadliest and most destructive fire in our state’s history,” said Cal OES Director Nancy Ward.   

    California previously secured federal Fire Management Assistance Grants to support the response to the Borel Fire as well as the response to the Park Fire in Tehama County and in Butte County. Governor Newsom visited and was briefed by federal, state and local officials at the Borel Fire Incident Command Post and the Park Fire Incident Command Post in July. He proclaimed a state of emergency in Butte and Tehama counties due to the Park Fire and in Kern County to support the response to the Borel Fire.

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom announces appointments 9.25.24

    Source: US State of California 2

    Sep 25, 2024

    SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the following appointments:

    Fidencio Guzman, of Imperial, has been appointed Warden at Centinela State Prison, where he has served as Acting Warden since 2023, was Chief Deputy Warden from 2021 to 2023 and was Correctional Administrator from 2018 to 2021. Guzman held several positions at Chuckawalla Valley State Prison from 2009 to 2018, including Correctional Administrator, Captain, Correctional Counselor II Specialist and Lieutenant. He was a Sergeant at Centinela State Prison from 2006 to 2009. Guzman served as a First Lieutenant in the California Army National Guard from 2002 to 2009. He was a Correctional Counselor I at Calipatria State Prison from 2003 to 2004, where he was a Correctional Officer from 1999 to 2003 and 2004 to 2006. Guzman earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from California State University, San Diego. This position does not require Senate confirmation and the compensation is $193,524. Guzman is a Republican. 

    Edward Borla, of Paso Robles, has been appointed Warden at the Correctional Training Facility, where he has served as Acting Warden since 2023. Borla was Correctional Administrator at Salinas Valley State Prison from 2015 to 2023. He was a Captain at the Correctional Training Facility from 2012 to 2015. Borla was a Correctional Lieutenant at Avenal State Prison from 2008 to 2012. He held multiple positions at California Men’s Colony from 1997 to 2008, including Correctional Sergeant, Correctional Lieutenant and Correctional Officer. This position does not require Senate confirmation and the compensation is $193,524. Borla is a Republican.

    Allison Ganter, of Davis, has been appointed In-Custody Death Review Director at the Board of State and Community Corrections, where she has been Deputy Director since 2014 and was Field Representative and Compliance Monitor from 2000 to 2014. Ganter was a Correctional Facility Specialist at the New York Commission of Correction from 1999 to 2000 and Assistant to the Chairman there from 1997 to 1999. She was a Staff Training Assistant and Legislative Aide in the New York State Assembly from 1995 to 1997. Ganter earned a Master of Arts degree in Criminal Justice and a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from the University at Albany, State University of New York. This position requires Senate confirmation and the compensation is $186,876. Ganter is a Democrat. 

    Jennifer Branning, of Susanville, has been appointed to the Board of State and Community Corrections. Branning has been Chief Probation Officer of Lassen County since 2013. She was President of the Chief Probation Officers of California in 2023 and is a member of Lassen Crime Stoppers. Branning earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Applied Studies from California State University, Dominguez Hills. This position requires Senate confirmation and there is no compensation. Branning is registered without party preference.

    Karen Lai, of Berkeley, has been appointed to the Board of State and Community Corrections. Lai has been a Physician at Traditions Behavioral Health since 2019. She was a Resident and Fellow Physician at the University of California, Los Angeles from 2014 to 2019. Lai was a Doris Duke Clinical Research Fellow at the University of California, San Francisco from 2010 to 2011. She was a Sal Romano Research Fellow at Rutgers University from 2007 to 2008. Lai was a Stanford Public Interest Network Fellow at MetroPlus Health Plan Inc. from 2006 to 2007. She is a member of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and the California Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Lai earned a Doctor of Medicine degree from Duke University, a Master of Public Health degree from the University of California, Los Angeles and Master of Science and Bachelor of Science degrees in Biomechanical Engineering from Stanford University. This position requires Senate confirmation and there is no compensation. Lai is a Democrat.

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom issues legislative update 9.25.24

    Source: US State of California 2

    Sep 25, 2024

    SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced that he has signed the following bills:

    • AB 1785 by Assemblymember Blanca Pacheco (D-Downey) – California Public Records Act.
    • AB 1864 by Assemblymember Damon Connolly (D-San Rafael) – Pesticides: agricultural use near schoolsites: notification and reporting.
    • AB 1868 by Assemblymember Laura Friedman (D-Glendale) – Property taxation: assessments: affordable housing.
    • AB 1874 by Assemblymember Kate Sanchez (R-Rancho Santa Margarita) – Crimes: disorderly conduct.
    • AB 1904 by Assemblymember Christopher Ward (D-San Diego) – Transit buses: yield right-of-way sign.
    • AB 1921 by Assemblymember Diane Papan (D-San Mateo) – Energy: renewable electrical generation facilities: definition.
    • AB 1979 by Assemblymember Christopher Ward (D-San Diego) – Doxing Victims Recourse Act.
    • AB 2005 by Assemblymember Christopher Ward (D-San Diego) – California State University: faculty and employee housing.
    • AB 2143 by Assemblymember Damon Connolly (D-San Rafael) – Fairs.
    • AB 2251 by Assemblymember Damon Connolly (D-San Rafael) – Graduation requirements: local requirements: exemptions.
    • AB 2257 by Assemblymember Lori Wilson (D-Suisun City) – Local government: property-related water and sewer fees and assessments: remedies.
    • AB 2300 by Assemblymember Lori Wilson (D-Suisun City) – Medical devices: Di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP).
    • AB 2317 by Assemblymember Stephanie Nguyen (D-Elk Grove) – Child day care facilities: anaphylactic policy.
    • AB 2340 by Assemblymember Mia Bonta (D-Oakland) – Medi-Cal: EPSDT services: informational materials.
    • AB 2350 by Assemblymember Josh Hoover (R-Folsom) – Open meetings: school boards: emergencies: notifications by email.
    • AB 2353 by Assemblymember Christopher Ward (D-San Diego) – Property taxation: welfare exemption: delinquent payments: interest and penalties.
    • AB 2427 by Assemblymember Kevin McCarty (D-Sacramento) – Electric vehicle charging stations: permitting: curbside charging.
    • AB 2455 by Assemblymember Jesse Gabriel (D-Encino) – Whistleblower protection: state and local government procedures.
    • AB 2462 by Assemblymember Lisa Calderon (D-Whittier) – Public Utilities Commission: written reports: energy.
    • AB 2534 by Assemblymember Heath Flora (R-Modesto) – Certificated employees: disclosures: egregious misconduct.
    • AB 2552 by Assemblymember Laura Friedman (D-Glendale) – Pesticides: anticoagulant rodenticides.
    • AB 2597 by Assemblymember Christopher Ward (D-San Diego) – Planning and zoning: revision of housing element: regional housing need allocation appeals: Southern California Association of Governments.
    • AB 2661 by Assemblymember Esmeralda Soria (D-Fresno) – Electricity: Westlands Water District.
    • AB 2698 by Assemblymember Tri Ta (R-Westminster) – Route 405: Little Saigon Freeway.
    • AB 2750 by Assemblymember James Gallagher (R-Yuba City) – Electricity: procurement: generation from biomass.
    • AB 2803 by Assemblymember Avelino Valencia (D-Anaheim) – Campaign expenditures: criminal convictions: fees and costs.
    • AB 2832 by Assemblymember Christopher Ward (D-San Diego) – Economic development: international trade and investment.
    • AB 2847 by Assemblymember Dawn Addis (D-Morro Bay) – Electrical and gas corporations: capital expenditures: request for authorization or recovery.
    • AB 2875 by Assemblymember Laura Friedman (D-Glendale) – Wetlands: state policy.
    • AB 2897 by Assemblymember Damon Connolly (D-San Rafael) – Property tax: welfare exemption: community land trusts.
    • AB 2922 by Assemblymember Eduardo Garcia (D-Coachella) – Economic development: capital investment incentive programs.
    • AB 2968 by Assemblymember Damon Connolly (D-San Rafael) – School safety and fire prevention: fire hazard severity zones: comprehensive school safety plans: communication and evacuation plans.
    • AB 3007 by Assemblymember Josh Hoover (R-Folsom) – California Environmental Quality Act: record of environmental documents: format.
    • AB 3024 by Assemblymember Christopher Ward (D-San Diego) – Civil rights.
    • AB 3198 by Assemblymember Eduardo Garcia (D-Coachella) – Joint powers agreements: retail electric services.
    • AB 3251 by Assemblymember Marc Berman (D-Menlo Park) – Accountancy.
    • AB 3252 by Assemblymember Marc Berman (D-Menlo Park) – Shorthand court reporters: sunset: certification.
    • AB 3253 by Assemblymember Marc Berman (D-Menlo Park) – Board for Professional Engineers, Land Surveyors, and Geologists: licensees: professional land surveyors: surveying practices: monuments and corner accessories.
    • AB 3254 by Assemblymember Marc Berman (D-Menlo Park) – Endowment care cemeteries: reporting.
    • AB 3255 by Assemblymember Marc Berman (D-Menlo Park) – Vocational nursing and psychiatric technicians: sunset: licensure.
    • SB 347 by Senator Josh Newman (D-Fullerton) – Subdivision Map Act: exemption: hydrogen fueling stations and electric vehicle charging stations.
    • SB 632 by Senator Anna Caballero (D-Merced) – Vehicles: off-highway recreation: Red Rock Canyon State Park.
    • SB 739 by Senator Angelique Ashby (D-Sacramento) – Construction manager at-risk construction contracts: City of Elk Grove: zoo project.
    • SB 909 by Senator Thomas Umberg (D-Santa Ana) – Steven M. Thompson Physician Corps Loan Repayment Program.
    • SB 941 by Senator Nancy Skinner (D-Berkeley) – California Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006: scoping plan: industrial sources of emissions.
    • SB 974 by Senator Shannon Grove (R-Bakersfield) – Lithium Extraction Tax: fund distribution.
    • SB 1006 by Senator Steve Padilla (D-San Diego) – Electricity: transmission capacity: reconductoring and grid-enhancing technologies.
    • SB 1099 by Senator Janet Nguyen (R-Huntington Beach) – Newborn screening: genetic diseases: blood samples collected.
    • SB 1140 by Senator Anna Caballero (D-Merced) – Enhanced infrastructure financing district.
    • SB 1142 by Senator Caroline Menjivar (D-San Fernando Valley/Burbank) – Electrical and gas corporations: restoration and termination of services.
    • SB 1146 by Senator Scott Wilk (R-Santa Clarita) – Mortgages.
    • SB 1221 by Senator Dave Min (D-Irvine) – Gas corporations: ceasing service: priority neighborhood decarbonization zones.
    • SB 1270 by Senator Shannon Grove (R-Bakersfield) – Department of Food and Agriculture: farm products: licenses and complaints: fees.
    • SB 1313 by Senator Angelique Ashby (D-Sacramento) – Vehicle equipment: driver monitoring defeat devices.
    • SB 1328 by Senator Steven Bradford (D-Gardena) – Elections.
    • SB 1371 by Senator Steven Bradford (D-Gardena) – Alcoholic beverage control: proof of age.
    • SB 1418 by Senator Bob Archuleta (D-Pico Rivera) – Hydrogen-fueling stations: expedited review.
    • SB 1420 by Senator Anna Caballero (D-Merced) – Hydrogen production facilities: certification and environmental review.
    • SB 1425 by Senator Lena Gonzalez (D-Long Beach) – Oil revenue: Oil Trust Fund.

    The Governor also announced that he has vetoed the following bills:

    • AB 99 by Assemblymember Damon Connolly (D-San Rafael) – Department of Transportation: state roads and highways: integrated pest management. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 718 by Assemblymember Tri Ta (R-Westminster) – Veterans: mental health. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 828 by Assemblymember Damon Connolly (D-San Rafael) – Sustainable groundwater management: managed wetlands. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 1975 by Assemblymember Mia Bonta (D-Oakland) – Medi-Cal: medically supportive food and nutrition interventions. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 2734 by Assemblymember Damon Connolly (D-San Rafael) – Agriculture: Cannella Environmental Farming Act of 1995. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 2757 by Assemblymember Eduardo Garcia (D-Coachella) – Southeast California Economic Region. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 2899 by Assemblymember Jesse Gabriel (D-Encino) – General acute care hospitals: licensed nurse-to-patient ratios. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 2903 by Assemblymember Josh Hoover (R-Folsom) – Homelessness. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 3263 by Assemblymember Lisa Calderon (D-Whittier) – Electrical corporations: financing orders. A veto message can be found here.
    • SB 26 by Senator Thomas Umberg (D-Santa Ana) – Mental health professions: CARE Scholarship Program. A veto message can be found here.
    • SB 37 by Senator Anna Caballero (D-Merced) – Older Adults and Adults with Disabilities Housing Stability Act. A veto message can be found here.
    • SB 366 by Senator Anna Caballero (D-Merced) – The California Water Plan: long-term supply targets. A veto message can be found here.
    • SB 954 by Senator Caroline Menjivar (D-San Fernando Valley/Burbank) – Sexual health. A veto message can be found here.
    • SB 1020 by Senator Steven Bradford (D-Gardena) – Law enforcement agency regulations: shooting range targets. A veto message can be found here.
    • SB 1050 by Senator Steven Bradford (D-Gardena) – California American Freedmen Affairs Agency: racially motivated eminent domain. A veto message can be found here.
    • SB 1058 by Senator Angelique Ashby (D-Sacramento) – Peace officers: injury or illness: leaves of absence. A veto message can be found here.
    • SB 1337 by Senator Lena Gonzalez (D-Long Beach) – Elections: form of petitions. A veto message can be found here.

    For full text of the bills, visit: http://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov.

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    News SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the following appointments:Fidencio Guzman, of Imperial, has been appointed Warden at Centinela State Prison, where he has served as Acting Warden since 2023, was Chief Deputy Warden from 2021 to 2023 and was…

    Sep 25, 2024

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    MIL OSI USA News –