Category: Agriculture

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Cost of hundreds of parking spaces could fall, says council

    Source: City of Canterbury

    The cost of parking in more than 4,000 car park spaces across the district is set to be frozen.

    And the cost of parking in 220 spaces in one Canterbury city centre car park is proposed to fall by a huge 37%.

    In a report to Canterbury City Council’s Cabinet asking for permission to consult on the coming year’s parking charges, tariffs at the following car parks are set to stay the same:

    • all three Park and Ride sites – New Dover Road, Wincheap and Sturry Road
    • at most Band 2 car parks including St Radigunds, Northgate, Longport, Millers Field in Canterbury; Beach Walk, Oyster and Middle Wall in Whitstable; Neptune in Herne Bay; Reculver Towers and Reculver Country Park in Reculver
    • Band 3 car parks including Castle Street Multi-Storey, Holmans Meadow, Station Road West Multi-Storey, Toddlers Cove, Victoria Rec Ground in Canterbury; Cow Lane and Maynard Road in Wincheap; Gladstone Road, Shaftesbury Road and Victoria Street,in Whitstable; William Street, Market Street and Memorial Park in Herne Bay
    • Band 5 car parks including Ocean View, Swalecliffe Avenue and Bishopstone Lane in Herne Bay, Tankerton Road in Tankerton, Reculver Drive in Reculver, Hampton in Hampton, Faversham Road in Seasalter and the Gorrell Valley Nature Reserve

    A space at the Riverside complex will fall from £2.70 an hour to £1.70 with the resident rate or £1.90 without.

    And, after concerns were raised about the increase in the cost of parking in School Lane, Herne, which was imposed last year, the report says the cost of an all-day space should fall from £15 per day to £1.60 on weekdays and £3.20 during the weekend and bank holidays.

    Motorists could also benefit from:

    • the introduction of an annual Park and Ride permit for £50 per month or £600 per year saving motorists money
    • the introduction of a Park and Ride corporate account allowing businesses to encourage their staff to park for just £2.50 per day including free parking at the weekend
    • applying the resident rate to the daily capped charge in Band 3 car parks controlled by ANPR cameras so it will cost a maximum of £13.50 per day. Non residents will pay £15
    • applying the resident rate to the daily capped charge in Band 2 car parks so it will cost a maximum of £18 per day. Non residents will pay a maximum of £20 per day

    Cllr Alex Ricketts, Cabinet Member for Tourism, Transport and Rural Champion, said: “Parking charges are never popular but the income they generate helps to pay for vital frontline services like waste collections or providing temporary accommodation for families that find themselves without a roof over their heads.

    “Feedback from the public has been instrumental in the formation of this set of proposals and, if Cabinet gives its permission to consult, we’re keen to hear everyone’s views before any final decisions are taken early next year.

    “I’d urge people to take a moment to feed into the process. We do listen and adjust charges where we can.

    “I hope our proposal for School Lane is evidence of that.

    “And it is worth noting, we’re still waiting to hear from the new Chancellor how much money she can find for local government so some our assumptions may have to change.”

    The draft Off Street Parking Places Order (OSPPO), which sets council car park tariffs, also proposes:

    • to add 10p an hour to the cost of parking in the council’s Band 1 car parks
    • to move North Lane and Castle Row car parks in Canterbury from Band 2 to Band 1
    • to increase the cost of off-street parking permits by 3%

    Cllr Ricketts said: “Everyone who lives, works and studies in Canterbury knows it is impossible to drive around the city at certain times of the day and how difficult it is to find a space in our most popular car parks.

    “We have to cut the queues and change people’s habits. Park and Ride is key.

    “These proposals are designed to reduce the demand for city centre car parking spaces and persuade people and businesses to use low-cost and convenient alternatives like the Park and Ride scheme.

    “They align with our emerging bus-led transport strategy which is aimed at making alternatives to the car far more attractive to cut congestion, boost air quality and combat climate change.

    “We really do want to hear what people think especially if they have alternative ideas.”

    The banding of the council’s car parks and the resident rate was introduced last year.

    Car parks have been placed in bands with the most popular and convenient in Band 1 and the far less well used in Band 5.

    If you’re a resident of Canterbury, Herne Bay, Whitstable or the rural villages and you have a parking permit account, you can sign up for a resident rate permit in certain car parks.

    You pay 10% less in all ANPR-camera controlled car parks in bands 2 and 3 and 20% less at all Park and Ride sites.

    The Cabinet will decide whether to give permission to consult on the OSPPO at its meeting on Monday 4 November at 7pm in the Guildhall, St Peter’s Place, Canterbury.

    If approved, the consultation will run from Monday 11 November 2024 to Monday 6 January 2025.

    Published: 25 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI: Fentura Financial, Inc. Announces Third Quarter 2024 Earnings (unaudited)

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Dollars in thousands except per share amounts. Certain items in the prior period financial statements have been reclassified to conform with the September 30, 2024 presentation.

    FENTON, Mich., Oct. 25, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Fentura Financial, Inc. (OTCQX: FETM) announces quarterly net income results of $867 and $5,637 for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024, respectively.

    Ronald L. Justice, President and CEO, stated, “We ended the 2024 third quarter with record total assets, deposits, and shareholders’ equity. These results are a testament to the continued hard work of our team members, and the local value we provide our Michigan communities. During the third quarter, we announced a merger with ChoiceOne Financial Services, Inc., pursuant to which ChoiceOne and Fentura will merge in an all-stock transaction. Once completed, the combination will create the third largest publicly traded bank in Michigan with approximately $4.3 billion in consolidated total assets and 56 offices in Western, Central and Southeastern Michigan. We continue to expect to close the transaction in the first quarter of 2025, subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions and regulatory approvals.”

    Following is a discussion of our financial performance as of, and for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024. At the end of this document is a list of abbreviations and acronyms.

    Results of Operations (unaudited)
    The following table outlines our QTD results of operations and provides certain performance measures as of, and for the three months ended:

        9/30/2024   6/30/2024   3/31/2024   12/31/2023   9/30/2023
    INCOME STATEMENT DATA                    
    Interest income   $ 22,194     $ 21,487     $ 21,541     $ 21,033     $ 20,416  
    Interest expense     10,202       9,650       9,315       8,526       7,757  
    Net interest income     11,992       11,837       12,226       12,507       12,659  
    Credit loss expense (reversal)     1,203       796       (43 )     (190 )     (309 )
    Noninterest income     2,210       2,314       2,355       2,145       2,338  
    Noninterest expenses     11,974       10,921       11,166       10,121       10,594  
    Federal income tax expense     158       454       668       937       937  
    Net income   $ 867     $ 1,980     $ 2,790     $ 3,784     $ 3,775  
    PER SHARE                    
    Earnings   $ 0.19     $ 0.44     $ 0.63     $ 0.85     $ 0.85  
    Dividends   $ 0.11     $ 0.11     $ 0.11     $ 0.10     $ 0.10  
    Tangible book value(1)   $ 30.51     $ 29.84     $ 29.38     $ 28.92     $ 27.64  
    Quoted market value                    
    High   $ 40.00     $ 24.39     $ 27.20     $ 27.20     $ 23.74  
    Low   $ 22.16     $ 22.33     $ 24.00     $ 22.26     $ 19.10  
    Close(1)   $ 39.07     $ 22.50     $ 24.40     $ 27.20     $ 23.74  
    PERFORMANCE RATIOS                    
    Return on average assets     0.19 %     0.45 %     0.63 %     0.86 %     0.86 %
    Return on average shareholders’ equity     2.37 %     5.59 %     7.98 %     11.11 %     11.27 %
    Return on average tangible shareholders’ equity     2.54 %     5.98 %     8.55 %     11.94 %     12.14 %
    Efficiency ratio     84.31 %     77.17 %     76.58 %     69.08 %     70.64 %
    Yield on average earning assets (FTE)     5.17 %     5.18 %     5.15 %     5.06 %     4.92 %
    Rate on interest bearing liabilities     3.28 %     3.22 %     3.11 %     2.90 %     2.66 %
    Net interest margin to average earning assets (FTE)     2.80 %     2.85 %     2.92 %     3.01 %     3.05 %
    BALANCE SHEET DATA(1)                    
    Total investment securities   $ 99,724     $ 100,167     $ 103,210     $ 107,615     $ 109,543  
    Gross loans   $ 1,442,389     $ 1,459,929     $ 1,461,465     $ 1,473,471     $ 1,483,720  
    Allowance for credit losses   $ 14,700     $ 15,300     $ 15,300     $ 15,400     $ 15,400  
    Total assets   $ 1,807,370     $ 1,756,629     $ 1,764,629     $ 1,738,952     $ 1,744,939  
    Total deposits   $ 1,470,586     $ 1,427,059     $ 1,438,408     $ 1,394,182     $ 1,401,797  
    Borrowed funds   $ 179,970     $ 178,397     $ 178,500     $ 198,500     $ 201,050  
    Total shareholders’ equity   $ 146,398     $ 143,301     $ 141,074     $ 138,702     $ 132,902  
    Net loans to total deposits     97.08 %     101.23 %     100.54 %     104.58 %     104.75 %
    Common shares outstanding     4,495,005       4,490,087       4,484,447       4,470,871       4,466,221  
    QTD BALANCE SHEET AVERAGES                    
    Total assets   $ 1,797,307     $ 1,762,651     $ 1,771,614     $ 1,740,526     $ 1,739,510  
    Earning assets   $ 1,708,177     $ 1,669,862     $ 1,683,708     $ 1,649,091     $ 1,646,848  
    Interest bearing liabilities   $ 1,237,665     $ 1,204,370     $ 1,205,162     $ 1,165,064     $ 1,156,835  
    Total shareholders’ equity   $ 145,240     $ 142,577     $ 140,574     $ 135,157     $ 132,860  
    Total tangible shareholders’ equity   $ 135,959     $ 133,252     $ 131,204     $ 125,723     $ 123,349  
    Earned common shares outstanding     4,466,951       4,461,580       4,449,376       4,443,463       4,437,415  
    Unvested stock grants     26,500       26,500       31,821       26,018       26,668  
    Total common shares outstanding     4,493,451       4,488,080       4,481,197       4,469,481       4,464,083  
    ASSET QUALITY                    
    Nonperforming loans to gross loans (1)     0.71 %     0.66 %     0.39 %     0.38 %     0.24 %
    Nonperforming assets to total assets (1)     0.58 %     0.56 %     0.34 %     0.35 %     0.23 %
    Allowance for credit losses to gross loans (1)     1.02 %     1.05 %     1.05 %     1.05 %     1.04 %
    Net charge-offs (recoveries) to QTD average gross loans     0.12 %     0.05 %     %   (0.01)%   (0.03)%
    Credit loss expense (reversal) to QTD average gross loans     0.08 %     0.05 %     %   (0.01)%   (0.02)%
    CAPITAL RATIOS(1)                    
    Total capital to risk weighted assets     12.48 %     12.38 %     12.27 %     11.91 %     11.59 %
    Tier 1 capital to risk weighted assets     11.42 %     11.28 %     11.17 %     10.82 %     10.51 %
    CET1 capital to risk weighted assets     10.40 %     10.28 %     10.17 %     9.83 %     9.53 %
    Tier 1 leverage ratio     8.78 %     8.92 %     8.78 %     8.77 %     8.58 %
                         
    (1)At end of period                    

    The following table outlines our YTD results of operations and provides certain performance measures as of, and for the nine months ended (unaudited):

        9/30/2024   9/30/2023   9/30/2022   9/30/2021   9/30/2020
    INCOME STATEMENT DATA                    
    Interest income   $ 65,222     $ 58,648     $ 41,438     $ 35,161     $ 34,355  
    Interest expense     29,167       19,561       3,122       2,091       4,952  
    Net interest income     36,055       39,087       38,316       33,070       29,403  
    Credit loss expense (reversal)     1,956       132       2,258       (218 )     4,652  
    Noninterest income     6,879       7,126       7,997       11,092       15,190  
    Noninterest expenses     34,061       32,547       30,870       27,815       23,939  
    Federal income tax expense     1,280       2,689       2,616       3,328       3,271  
    Net income   $ 5,637     $ 10,845     $ 10,569     $ 13,237     $ 12,731  
    PER SHARE                    
    Earnings   $ 1.26     $ 2.45     $ 2.39     $ 2.86     $ 2.73  
    Dividends   $ 0.33     $ 0.3     $ 0.27     $ 0.24     $ 0.225  
    Tangible book value(1)   $ 30.51     $ 27.64     $ 25.22     $ 26.53     $ 23.50  
    Quoted market value                    
    High   $ 40.00     $ 24.10     $ 29.25     $ 27.40     $ 26.00  
    Low   $ 22.16     $ 18.70     $ 23.00     $ 21.90     $ 12.55  
    Close(1)   $ 39.07     $ 23.74     $ 23.00     $ 25.75     $ 16.93  
    PERFORMANCE RATIOS                    
    Return on average assets     0.42 %     0.85 %     0.95 %     1.36 %     1.45 %
    Return on average shareholders’ equity     5.27 %     11.15 %     11.71 %     14.55 %     15.79 %
    Return on average tangible shareholders’ equity     5.64 %     12.03 %     12.75 %     15.00 %     16.40 %
    Efficiency ratio     79.33 %     70.43 %     66.66 %     62.98 %     53.68 %
    Yield on average earning assets (FTE)     5.17 %     4.84 %     3.99 %     3.83 %     4.12 %
    Rate on interest bearing liabilities     3.20 %     2.35 %     0.49 %     0.37 %     0.93 %
    Net interest margin to average earning assets (FTE)     2.86 %     3.23 %     3.69 %     3.60 %     3.52 %
    BALANCE SHEET DATA(1)                    
    Total investment securities   $ 99,724     $ 109,543     $ 129,886     $ 138,476     $ 78,179  
    Gross loans   $ 1,442,389     $ 1,483,720     $ 1,350,851     $ 1,015,177     $ 1,060,885  
    Allowance for credit losses   $ 14,700     $ 15,400     $ 12,200     $ 10,500     $ 10,100  
    Total assets   $ 1,807,370     $ 1,744,939     $ 1,588,592     $ 1,329,300     $ 1,284,845  
    Total deposits   $ 1,470,586     $ 1,401,797     $ 1,345,209     $ 1,144,291     $ 1,061,470  
    Borrowed funds   $ 179,970     $ 201,050     $ 116,600     $ 50,000     $ 96,217  
    Total shareholders’ equity   $ 146,398     $ 132,902     $ 121,630     $ 124,809     $ 114,081  
    Net loans to total deposits     97.08 %     104.75 %     99.51 %     87.80 %     98.99 %
    Common shares outstanding     4,495,005       4,466,221       4,434,937       4,569,935       4,691,142  
    YTD BALANCE SHEET AVERAGES                    
    Total assets   $ 1,777,188     $ 1,710,941     $ 1,485,489     $ 1,297,657     $ 1,171,415  
    Earning assets   $ 1,687,249     $ 1,620,015     $ 1,391,179     $ 1,230,553     $ 1,116,861  
    Interest bearing liabilities   $ 1,215,731     $ 1,111,687     $ 858,600     $ 748,472     $ 711,449  
    Total shareholders’ equity   $ 142,796     $ 130,068     $ 120,704     $ 121,659     $ 107,711  
    Total tangible shareholders’ equity   $ 133,470     $ 120,482     $ 110,792     $ 117,991     $ 103,712  
    Earned common shares outstanding     4,459,303       4,428,963       4,425,818       4,630,709       4,665,951  
    Unvested stock grants     28,274       28,530       25,462       21,088       13,966  
    Total common shares outstanding     4,487,577       4,457,493       4,451,280       4,651,797       4,679,917  
    ASSET QUALITY                    
    Nonperforming loans to gross loans (1)     0.71 %     0.24 %     0.12 %     0.82 %     0.07 %
    Nonperforming assets to total assets (1)     0.58 %     0.23 %     0.12 %     0.63 %     0.06 %
    Allowance for credit losses to gross loans (1)     1.02 %     1.04 %     0.90 %     1.03 %     0.95 %
    Net charge-offs (recoveries) to YTD average gross loans     0.18 %   (0.03)%     0.05 %     0.02 %     0.03 %
    Credit loss expense (reversal) to YTD average gross loans     0.13 %     0.01 %     0.19 %   (0.02)%     0.44 %
    CAPITAL RATIOS(1)                    
    Total capital to risk weighted assets     12.48 %     11.59 %     10.96 %     13.63 %     15.57 %
    Tier 1 capital to risk weighted assets     11.42 %     10.51 %     10.07 %     12.64 %     14.40 %
    CET1 capital to risk weighted assets     10.40 %     9.53 %     9.04 %     11.33 %     12.77 %
    Tier 1 leverage ratio     8.78 %     8.58 %     8.91 %     10.21 %     9.86 %
                         
    (1)At end of period                    

    Income Statement Breakdown and Analysis

        Quarter to Date
        9/30/2024   6/30/2024   3/31/2024   12/31/2023   9/30/2023
    Net income   $ 867     $ 1,980     $ 2,790     $ 3,784     $ 3,775  
    Acquisition related items (net of tax)                    
    Other acquisition related expenses     753                          
    Amortization of core deposit intangibles     35       34       36       60       60  
    Total acquisition related items (net of tax)     788       34       36       60       60  
    Other nonrecurring items (net of tax)                    
    Proxy contest related expenses                              
    Prepayment penalties collected     (24 )     (40 )     (58 )     (85 )     (29 )
    Total other nonrecurring items (net of tax)     (24 )     (40 )     (58 )     (85 )     (29 )
    Adjusted net income from operations   $ 1,631     $ 1,974     $ 2,768     $ 3,759     $ 3,806  
                         
    Net interest income   $ 11,992     $ 11,837     $ 12,226     $ 12,507     $ 12,659  
    Prepayment penalties collected     (31 )     (51 )     (73 )     (107 )     (37 )
    Adjusted net interest income   $ 11,961     $ 11,786     $ 12,153     $ 12,400     $ 12,622  
                         
    PERFORMANCE RATIOS                    
    Based on adjusted net income from operations                    
    Earnings per share   $ 0.37     $ 0.44     $ 0.62     $ 0.85     $ 0.86  
    Return on average assets     0.36 %     0.45 %     0.63 %     0.86 %     0.87 %
    Return on average shareholders’ equity     4.47 %     5.57 %     7.92 %     11.03 %     11.37 %
    Return on average tangible shareholders’ equity     4.77 %     5.96 %     8.49 %     11.86 %     12.24 %
    Efficiency ratio     77.45 %     77.15 %     76.65 %     69.06 %     70.31 %
                         
    Based on adjusted net interest income                    
    Yield on average earning assets (FTE)     5.16 %     5.17 %     5.13 %     5.03 %     4.91 %
    Rate on interest bearing liabilities     3.28 %     3.22 %     3.11 %     2.90 %     2.66 %
    Net interest margin to average earning assets (FTE)     2.79 %     2.84 %     2.90 %     2.98 %     3.04 %
                         
        Year to Date September 30   Variance
          2024       2023     Amount   %
    Net income   $ 5,637     $ 10,845     $ (5,208 )   (48.02)%
    Acquisition related items (net of tax)                
    Other acquisition related expenses     753             753     N/M
    Amortization of core deposit intangibles     105       180       (75 )   (41.67)%
    Total acquisition related items (net of tax)     858       180       678     376.67 %
    Other nonrecurring items (net of tax)                
    Proxy contest related expenses           413       (413 )   (100.00)%
    Prepayment penalties collected     (122 )     (133 )     11     (8.27)%
    Total other nonrecurring items (net of tax)     (122 )     280       (402 )   (143.57)%
    Adjusted net income from operations   $ 6,373     $ 11,305     $ (4,932 )   (43.63)%
                     
    Net interest income   $ 36,055     $ 39,087     $ (3,032 )   (7.76)%
    Prepayment penalties collected     (155 )     (169 )     14     (8.28)%
    Adjusted net interest income   $ 35,900     $ 38,918     $ (3,018 )   (7.75)%
                     
    PERFORMANCE RATIOS                
    Based on adjusted net income from operations                
    Earnings per share   $ 1.43     $ 2.55     $ (1.12 )   (43.92)%
    Return on average assets     0.48 %     0.88 %       (0.40)%
    Return on average shareholders’ equity     5.96 %     11.62 %       (5.66)%
    Return on average tangible shareholders’ equity     6.38 %     12.55 %       (6.17)%
    Efficiency ratio     77.08 %     69.06 %       8.02 %
                     
    Based on adjusted net interest income                
    Yield on average earning assets (FTE)     5.16 %     4.83 %       0.33 %
    Rate on interest bearing liabilities     3.20 %     2.35 %       0.85 %
    Net interest margin to average earning assets (FTE)     2.85 %     3.22 %       (0.37)%
                     

    Average Balances, Interest Rate, and Net Interest Income

    The following tables present the daily average amount outstanding for each major category of interest earning assets, nonearning assets, interest bearing liabilities, and noninterest bearing liabilities. These tables also present an analysis of interest income and interest expense for the periods indicated. All interest income is reported on a FTE basis using a federal income tax rate of 21%. Loans in nonaccrual status, for the purpose of the following computations, are included in the average loan balances.

    Net interest income is the amount by which interest income on earning assets exceeds the interest expenses on interest bearing liabilities. Net interest income, which includes loan fees, is influenced by changes in the balance and mix of assets and liabilities and market interest rates. We exert some control over these factors; however, FRB monetary policy and competition have a significant impact. For analytical purposes, net interest income is adjusted to a FTE basis by adding the income tax savings from interest on tax exempt loans, and nontaxable investment securities, thus making period-to-period comparisons more meaningful.

        Three Months Ended
        September 30, 2024   June 30, 2024   September 30, 2023
        Average Balance   Tax Equivalent Interest   Average Yield / Rate   Average Balance   Tax Equivalent Interest   Average Yield / Rate   Average Balance   Tax Equivalent Interest   Average Yield / Rate
    Interest earning assets                                    
    Total loans   $ 1,450,371     $ 19,599   5.38 %   $ 1,462,362     $ 19,550   5.38 %   $ 1,477,343     $ 19,170   5.15 %
    Taxable investment securities     89,175       335   1.49 %     89,751       350   1.57 %     101,549       397   1.55 %
    Nontaxable investment securities     10,580       57   2.14 %     11,059       62   2.25 %     12,670       70   2.19 %
    Interest earning cash and cash equivalents     148,872       2,023   5.41 %     97,511       1,331   5.49 %     43,865       594   5.37 %
    Federal Home Loan Bank stock     9,179       192   8.32 %     9,179       207   9.07 %     11,421       199   6.91 %
    Total earning assets     1,708,177       22,206   5.17 %     1,669,862       21,500   5.18 %     1,646,848       20,430   4.92 %
                                         
    Nonearning assets                                    
    Allowance for credit losses     (15,282 )             (15,300 )             (15,503 )        
    Premises and equipment, net     13,514               13,964               15,210          
    Accrued income and other assets     90,898               94,125               92,955          
    Total assets   $ 1,797,307             $ 1,762,651             $ 1,739,510          
                                         
    Interest bearing liabilities                                    
    Interest bearing demand deposits   $ 460,256     $ 4,054   3.50 %   $ 429,141     $ 3,745   3.51 %   $ 416,500     $ 3,230   3.08 %
    Savings deposits     261,620       416   0.63 %     266,731       408   0.62 %     290,939       429   0.59 %
    Time deposits     336,570       3,865   4.57 %     330,024       3,756   4.58 %     248,389       2,280   3.64 %
    Borrowed funds     179,219       1,867   4.14 %     178,474       1,741   3.92 %     201,007       1,818   3.59 %
    Total interest bearing liabilities     1,237,665       10,202   3.28 %     1,204,370       9,650   3.22 %     1,156,835       7,757   2.66 %
                                         
    Noninterest bearing liabilities                                    
    Noninterest bearing deposits     402,274               405,985               435,398          
    Accrued interest and other liabilities     12,128               9,719               14,417          
    Shareholders’ equity     145,240               142,577               132,860          
    Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity   $ 1,797,307             $ 1,762,651             $ 1,739,510          
    Net interest income (FTE)       $ 12,004           $ 11,850           $ 12,673    
    Net interest margin to earning assets (FTE)           2.80 %           2.85 %           3.05 %
                                         
        Nine Months Ended
        September 30, 2024   September 30, 2023
        Average Balance   Tax Equivalent Interest   Average Yield / Rate   Average Balance   Tax Equivalent Interest   Average Yield / Rate
    Interest earning assets                        
    Total loans   $ 1,461,289     $ 58,758   5.37 %   $ 1,464,959     $ 55,749   5.09 %
    Taxable investment securities     91,041       1,044   1.53 %     106,158       1,250   1.57 %
    Nontaxable investment securities     11,200       186   2.22 %     13,403       227   2.26 %
    Interest earning cash and cash equivalents     114,540       4,673   5.45 %     24,484       955   5.21 %
    Federal Home Loan Bank stock     9,179       600   8.73 %     11,011       515   6.25 %
    Total earning assets     1,687,249       65,261   5.17 %     1,620,015       58,696   4.84 %
                             
    Nonearning assets                        
    Allowance for credit losses     (15,328 )             (15,290 )        
    Premises and equipment, net     13,957               15,342          
    Accrued income and other assets     91,310               90,874          
    Total assets   $ 1,777,188             $ 1,710,941          
                             
    Interest bearing liabilities                        
    Interest bearing demand deposits   $ 436,997     $ 11,358   3.47 %   $ 385,316     $ 7,927   2.75 %
    Savings deposits     266,883       1,237   0.62 %     312,762       1,336   0.57 %
    Time deposits     331,113       11,265   4.54 %     196,838       4,595   3.12 %
    Borrowed funds     180,738       5,307   3.92 %     216,771       5,703   3.52 %
    Total interest bearing liabilities     1,215,731       29,167   3.20 %     1,111,687       19,561   2.35 %
                             
    Noninterest bearing liabilities                        
    Noninterest bearing deposits     408,449               455,069          
    Accrued interest and other liabilities     10,212               14,117          
    Shareholders’ equity     142,796               130,068          
    Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity   $ 1,777,188             $ 1,710,941          
    Net interest income (FTE)       $ 36,094           $ 39,135    
    Net interest margin to earning assets (FTE)           2.86 %           3.23 %
                             

    Volume and Rate Variance Analysis

    The following table sets forth the effect of volume and rate changes on interest income and expense for the periods indicated. For the purpose of this table, changes in interest due to volume and rate were determined as follows:

    Volume – change in volume multiplied by the previous period’s rate.
    Rate – change in the FTE rate multiplied by the previous period’s volume.

    The change in interest due to both volume and rate has been allocated to volume and rate changes in proportion to the relationship of the absolute dollar amounts of the change in each.

        Three Months Ended   Three Months Ended   Nine Months Ended
        September 30, 2024   September 30, 2024   September 30, 2024
        Compared To   Compared To   Compared To
        June 30, 2024   September 30, 2023   September 30, 2023
        Increase (Decrease) Due to   Increase (Decrease) Due to   Increase (Decrease) Due to
        Volume   Rate   Net   Volume   Rate   Net   Volume   Rate   Net
    Changes in interest income                                    
    Total loans   $ 49     $     $ 49     $ (1,847 )   $ 2,276     $ 429     $ (227 )   $ 3,236     $ 3,009  
    Taxable investment securities     (2 )     (13 )     (15 )     (47 )     (15 )     (62 )     (175 )     (31 )     (206 )
    Nontaxable investment securities     (2 )     (3 )     (5 )     (12 )     (1 )     (13 )     (37 )     (4 )     (41 )
    Interest earning cash and cash equivalents     825       (133 )     692       1,424       5       1,429       3,672       46       3,718  
    Federal Home Loan Bank stock           (15 )     (15 )     (161 )     154       (7 )     (137 )     222       85  
    Total changes in interest income     870       (164 )     706       (643 )     2,419       1,776       3,096       3,469       6,565  
                                         
    Changes in interest expense                                    
    Interest bearing demand deposits     380       (71 )     309       359       465       824       1,162       2,269       3,431  
    Savings deposits     (25 )     33       8       (147 )     134       (13 )     (258 )     159       (99 )
    Time deposits     158       (49 )     109       922       663       1,585       4,001       2,669       6,670  
    Borrowed funds     9       117       126       (896 )     945       49       (1,265 )     869       (396 )
    Total changes in interest expense     522       30       552       238       2,207       2,445       3,640       5,966       9,606  
    Net change in net interest income (FTE)   $ 348     $ (194 )   $ 154     $ (881 )   $ 212     $ (669 )   $ (544 )   $ (2,497 )   $ (3,041 )
                                         
        Average Yield/Rate for the Three Months Ended
        9/30/2024   6/30/2024   3/31/2024   12/31/2023   9/30/2023
    Total earning assets   5.17 %   5.18 %   5.15 %   5.06 %   4.92 %
    Total interest bearing liabilities   3.28 %   3.22 %   3.11 %   2.90 %   2.66 %
    Net interest margin to earning assets (FTE)   2.80 %   2.85 %   2.92 %   3.01 %   3.05 %
                         
        Quarter to Date Net Interest Income (FTE)
        9/30/2024   6/30/2024   3/31/2024   12/31/2023   9/30/2023
    Interest income   $ 22,194     $ 21,487     $ 21,541   $ 21,033     $ 20,416  
    FTE adjustment     12       13       14     14       14  
    Total interest income (FTE)     22,206       21,500       21,555     21,047       20,430  
    Total interest expense     10,202       9,650       9,315     8,526       7,757  
    Net interest income (FTE)   $ 12,004     $ 11,850     $ 12,240   $ 12,521     $ 12,673  
                         

    Noninterest Income

        Three Months Ended
        9/30/2024   6/30/2024   3/31/2024   12/31/2023   9/30/2023
    Service charges and fees                    
    Trust and investment services     619       607       641       433       572  
    ATM and debit card     541       545       512       549       568  
    Service charges on deposit accounts     163       162       140       211       244  
    Total     1,323       1,314       1,293       1,193       1,384  
    Net gain on sales of residential mortgage loans     211       177       143       96       164  
    Net gain on sales of commercial loans     133       98       296       226        
    Change in fair value of equity investments     33       (3 )     (10 )     42       (28 )
    Changes in the fair value of MSR     (175 )     (44 )     (96 )     (108 )     119  
    Other                    
    Mortgage servicing fees     389       386       394       398       398  
    Change in cash surrender value of corporate owned life insurance     206       207       204       192       181  
    Other     90       179       131       106       120  
    Total     685       772       729       696       699  
    Total noninterest income   $ 2,210     $ 2,314     $ 2,355     $ 2,145     $ 2,338  
                         
    Memo items:                    
    Residential mortgage operations   $ 425     $ 519     $ 441     $ 386     $ 681  
        Nine Months Ended September 30   Variance
          2024       2023     Amount   %
    Service charges and fees                
    Trust and investment services   $ 1,867     $ 1,704     $ 163     9.57 %
    ATM and debit card     1,598       1,669       (71 )   (4.25)%
    Service charges on deposit accounts     465       686       (221 )   (32.22)%
    Total     3,930       4,059       (129 )   (3.18)%
    Net gain on sales of residential mortgage loans     531       523       8     1.53 %
    Net gain on sales of commercial loans     527       95       432     454.74 %
    Change in fair value of equity investments     20       (29 )     49     (168.97)%
    Changes in the fair value of MSR     (315 )     218       (533 )   (244.50)%
    Other                
    Mortgage servicing fees     1,169       1,210       (41 )   (3.39)%
    Change in cash surrender value of corporate owned life insurance     617       531       86     16.20 %
    Other     400       519       (119 )   (22.93)%
    Total     2,186       2,260       (74 )   (3.27)%
    Total noninterest income   $ 6,879     $ 7,126     $ (247 )   (3.47)%
                     
    Memo items:                
    Residential mortgage operations   $ 1,385     $ 1,951     $ (566 )   (29.01)%
                     

    Residential Mortgage Operations

    Residential mortgage operations includes net gains on sales of loans, changes in the fair value of mortgage servicing rights, and mortgage servicing fees.

    Net gain on sales of residential mortgage loans represents the income earned on the sale of residential mortgage loans into the secondary market. Although elevated interest rates and limited inventories have significantly driven down the volume of new originations and refinancing activity, we continue to actively sell residential mortgage loans into the secondary market. During the third quarter of 2024, residential mortgage originations sold into the secondary market totaled $10,722.

    Changes in the fair value of MSR are highly correlated to changes in interest rates and prepayment speeds. During the third quarter of 2024, the fair value of the servicing portfolio decreased primarily due to a decline in the size of the servicing portfolio, as the portfolio declined by $4,741. Mortgage servicing rights are expected to continue to decline due to likely further reductions in the size of our servicing portfolio as paydowns and maturities are expected to outpace new originations.

    Mortgage servicing fees includes the fees earned for servicing loans that have been sold into the secondary market. The annual decrease in mortgage servicing fees is directly related to the size of the serviced portfolio. Due to reduced levels of secondary market originations and prepayments, the serviced loan portfolio declined by $22,584, or 3.58%, since September 30, 2023. We expect mortgage servicing fees to trend modestly downward in future periods due to decreased secondary market originations.

    All Other Noninterest Income

    Trust and investment services includes income earned from contracts with customers to manage assets for investment and/or to transact on their accounts through the wealth management and trust department. Trust services and wealth management fees are subject to market fluctuations and interest rate changes. We expect trust and investment services fees to modestly increase in future periods.

    ATM and debit card income represents fees earned on ATM and debit card transactions. We expect these fees to approximate current levels in 2024.

    Service charges on deposit accounts includes fees earned from deposit customers for transaction-based charges, account maintenance and overdraft services. These charges have declined in 2024 due to a reduced level of NSF fees charged to customers based on regulatory guidance and overall industry trends. Service charges on deposit accounts are expected to approximate current levels throughout the remainder of the year.

    Net gain on sales of commercial loans represents the income earned from the sale of commercial loans into the secondary market. Throughout 2024, we sold the guaranteed portion of select SBA loans. We anticipate this strategy to continue throughout the remainder of the year.

    Change in cash surrender value of corporate owned life insurance is expected to modestly increase throughout 2024.

    Other includes miscellaneous other income items, none of which are individually significant.

    Noninterest Expenses

        Three Months Ended
        9/30/2024   6/30/2024   3/31/2024   12/31/2023   9/30/2023
    Compensation and benefits   $ 5,839   $ 5,842   $ 6,066   $ 5,521   $ 5,592
    Professional services     799     963     894     695     726
    Furniture and equipment     668     689     727     696     668
    Occupancy     622     605     623     610     591
    Data processing     751     490     547     505     576
    Loan and collection     349     425     322     301     232
    Advertising and promotional     312     337     348     139     506
    Other                    
    Acquisition related expenses     953                
    FDIC insurance premiums     275     327     299     270     330
    ATM and debit card     214     188     171     158     153
    Telephone and communication     95     86     109     103     115
    Amortization of core deposit intangibles     44     44     45     76     75
    Other general and administrative     1,053     925     1,015     1,047     1,030
    Total     2,634     1,570     1,639     1,654     1,703
    Total noninterest expenses   $ 11,974   $ 10,921   $ 11,166   $ 10,121   $ 10,594
                         
        Nine Months Ended
    September 30
      Variance
          2024     2023   Amount   %
    Compensation and benefits   $ 17,747   $ 16,876   $ 871     5.16 %
    Professional services     2,656     2,729     (73 )   (2.67)%
    Furniture and equipment     2,084     2,079     5     0.24 %
    Occupancy     1,850     1,815     35     1.93 %
    Data processing     1,788     1,654     134     8.10 %
    Loan and collection     1,096     929     167     17.98 %
    Advertising and promotional     997     1,466     (469 )   (31.99)%
    Other                
    Acquisition related expenses     953         953     N/M
    FDIC insurance premiums     901     861     40     4.65 %
    ATM and debit card     573     493     80     16.23 %
    Telephone and communication     290     334     (44 )   (13.17)%
    Amortization of core deposit intangibles     133     227     (94 )   (41.41)%
    Other general and administrative     2,993     3,084     (91 )   (2.95)%
    Total     5,843     4,999     844     16.88 %
    Total noninterest expenses   $ 34,061   $ 32,547   $ 1,514     4.65 %
                     

    Compensation and benefits includes salaries, commissions and incentives, employee benefits, and payroll taxes. Compensation and benefits has increased in 2024 due to an increase in the size of the organization, merit increases, and market based adjustments. We expect a modest increase in overall compensation and benefits throughout the remainder of 2024.

    Professional services include expenses relating to third-party professional services. These services include, but are not limited to, regulatory, auditing, consulting, and legal. Professional services expenses are expected to approximate current levels in future periods.

    Furniture and equipment and occupancy expenses primarily consist of depreciation, repairs and maintenance, certain service contracts, and other related items. These expenses are expected to approximate current levels throughout the remainder of 2024.

    Data processing primarily includes the expenses relating to our core data processor. The increase in data processing in the third quarter of 2024 is primarily due to the loss of incentive credits from our core data processor following our proposed merger announcement. Data processing expenses are expected to modestly increase throughout 2024 due to annual contractual increases from our core data processor.

    Loan and collection includes expenses related to the origination and collection of loans. The increase in such expenses in 2024 is due to increased levels of home ownership grants. Loan and collection expenses are expected to approximate current levels in future periods as loan growth is expected to approximate current levels.

    Advertising and promotional expenses includes media costs and any donations or sponsorships. These expenses also include marketing efforts to attract new and expand existing customer loan and deposit account relationships. Total advertising and promotional expenses have declined in 2024 due to the expiration of certain long-term sponsorship commitments. Advertising and promotional expenses are expected to approximate current levels in future periods.

    Acquisition related expenses includes expenses related to our proposed merger with ChoiceOne Financial Services, Inc., which was announced during the third quarter of 2024. These expenses include services rendered for investment banking, legal and accounting. We expect to incur additional acquisition related expenses in future periods.

    FDIC insurance premiums typically fluctuate each period based on the size of the balance sheet, capital position and overall risk profile. FDIC insurance premiums are expected to approximate current levels in future periods.

    ATM and debit card expenses fluctuate based on customer and non-customer utilization of ATMs and customer debit card volumes. We expect these fees to approximate current levels in future periods.

    Telephone and communication includes expenses relating to our communication systems. These expenses are expected to approximate current levels in future periods.

    Amortization of core deposit intangibles relates to the core deposits acquired from Community Bancorp, Inc. on December 31, 2016 and FSB on December 1, 2021. These core deposit intangibles are being amortized using an accelerated sum-of-years-digits method over their estimated useful lives of seven years. The core deposit intangibles associated with the acquisition of Community Bancorp, Inc. were fully amortized as of December 31, 2023. The core deposit intangibles associated with the acquisition of FSB will be amortized through 2028.

    Other general and administrative includes miscellaneous other expense items. Other general and administrative expenses are expected to approximate current levels in future periods.

    Balance Sheet Breakdown and Analysis

        9/30/2024   6/30/2024   3/31/2024   12/31/2023   9/30/2023
    ASSETS                    
    Cash and due from banks   $ 199,717   $ 128,590   $ 132,349   $ 90,661   $ 83,365
    Total investment securities     99,724     100,167     103,210     107,615     109,543
    Residential mortgage loans held-for-sale, at fair value     1,861     2,440     1,067     747     1,037
    Gross loans     1,442,389     1,459,929     1,461,465     1,473,471     1,483,720
    Less allowance for credit losses     14,700     15,300     15,300     15,400     15,400
    Net loans     1,427,689     1,444,629     1,446,165     1,458,071     1,468,320
    All other assets     78,379     80,803     81,838     81,858     82,674
    Total assets   $ 1,807,370   $ 1,756,629   $ 1,764,629   $ 1,738,952   $ 1,744,939
                         
    LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY                    
    Total deposits   $ 1,470,586   $ 1,427,059   $ 1,438,408   $ 1,394,182   $ 1,401,797
    Total borrowed funds     179,970     178,397     178,500     198,500     201,050
    Accrued interest payable and other liabilities     10,416     7,872     6,647     7,568     9,190
    Total liabilities     1,660,972     1,613,328     1,623,555     1,600,250     1,612,037
    Total shareholders’ equity     146,398     143,301     141,074     138,702     132,902
    Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity   $ 1,807,370   $ 1,756,629   $ 1,764,629   $ 1,738,952   $ 1,744,939
                         
        9/30/2024 vs 6/30/2024   9/30/2024 vs 9/30/2023
        Variance   Variance
        Amount   %   Amount   %
    ASSETS                
    Cash and due from banks   $ 71,127     55.31 %   $ 116,352     139.57 %
    Total investment securities     (443 )   (0.44)%     (9,819 )   (8.96)%
    Residential mortgage loans held-for-sale, at fair value     (579 )   (23.73)%     824     79.46 %
    Gross loans     (17,540 )   (1.20)%     (41,331 )   (2.79)%
    Less allowance for credit losses     (600 )   (3.92)%     (700 )   (4.55)%
    Net loans     (16,940 )   (1.17)%     (40,631 )   (2.77)%
    All other assets     (2,424 )   (3.00)%     (4,295 )   (5.20)%
    Total assets   $ 50,741     2.89 %   $ 62,431     3.58 %
                     
    LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY                
    Total deposits   $ 43,527     3.05 %   $ 68,789     4.91 %
    Total borrowed funds     1,573     0.88 %     (21,080 )   (10.48)%
    Accrued interest payable and other liabilities     2,544     32.32 %     1,226     13.34 %
    Total liabilities     47,644     2.95 %     48,935     3.04 %
    Total shareholders’ equity     3,097     2.16 %     13,496     10.15 %
    Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity   $ 50,741     2.89 %   $ 62,431     3.58 %
                     

    Cash and due from banks

        9/30/2024   6/30/2024   3/31/2024   12/31/2023   9/30/2023
    Cash and due from banks                    
    Noninterest bearing   $ 37,871   $ 35,437     $ 26,128   $ 29,997   $ 35,121  
    Interest bearing     161,846     93,153       106,221     60,664     48,244  
    Total   $ 199,717   $ 128,590     $ 132,349   $ 90,661   $ 83,365  
                         
        9/30/2024 vs 6/30/2024       9/30/2024 vs 9/30/2023
        Variance       Variance
        Amount   %       Amount   %
    Cash and due from banks                    
    Noninterest bearing   $ 2,434     6.87 %       $ 2,750     7.83 %
    Interest bearing     68,693     73.74 %         113,602     235.47 %
    Total   $ 71,127     55.31 %       $ 116,352     139.57 %
                         

    Cash and due from banks fluctuates from period to period based on loan demand and variances in deposit account balances.

    Primary and secondary liquidity sources

    The following table outlines our primary and secondary sources of liquidity as of:

        9/30/2024   6/30/2024   3/31/2024   12/31/2023   9/30/2023
    Cash and cash equivalents   $ 199,717   $ 128,590   $ 132,349   $ 90,661   $ 83,365
    Fair value of unpledged investment securities     77,019     74,775     73,680     80,247     82,103
    FHLB borrowing availability     190,000     190,000     190,000     170,000     170,000
    Unsecured lines of credit     23,000     23,000     23,000     20,000     20,000
    Funds available through the Fed Discount Window     109     106     107     111     110
    Parent company line of credit     5,100     7,000     3,500     3,500     950
    Total liquidity sources   $ 494,945   $ 423,471   $ 422,636   $ 364,519   $ 356,528
                         

    The increase in cash and cash equivalents as of September 30, 2024 was due to an increase in total deposits (see “Total deposits” below).

    In addition to the above liquidity sources, we also have the option of utilizing wholesale funding sources, such as brokered NOW accounts, brokered time deposits, and internet time deposits. Although wholesale funding sources are typically more expensive than core deposits and other liquidity sources, they are an integral part of our overall asset and liability management strategy.

    Investment securities

        9/30/2024   6/30/2024   3/31/2024   12/31/2023   9/30/2023
    Available-for-sale                    
    U.S. Government and federal agency   $ 19,432     $ 20,430     $ 20,427     $ 22,425     $ 23,420  
    State and municipal     18,997       19,108       20,403       20,460       20,992  
    Mortgage backed residential     44,086       45,808       47,505       49,076       50,786  
    Certificates of deposit     2,234       2,481       2,729       2,728       3,956  
    Collateralized mortgage obligations – agencies     21,640       22,213       22,778       23,320       24,062  
    Unrealized gain/(loss) on available-for-sale securities     (8,798 )     (12,179 )     (13,027 )     (12,760 )     (15,958 )
    Total available-for-sale     97,591       97,861       100,815       105,249       107,258  
    Held-to-maturity state and municipal     535       791       877       878       879  
    Equity securities     1,598       1,515       1,518       1,488       1,406  
    Total investment securities   $ 99,724     $ 100,167     $ 103,210     $ 107,615     $ 109,543  
                         
        9/30/2024 vs 6/30/2024       9/30/2024 vs 9/30/2023
        Variance       Variance
        Amount   %       Amount   %
    Available-for-sale                    
    U.S. Government and federal agency     (998 )   (4.88)%       $ (3,988 )   (17.03)%
    State and municipal     (111 )   (0.58)%         (1,995 )   (9.50)%
    Mortgage backed residential     (1,722 )   (3.76)%         (6,700 )   (13.19)%
    Certificates of deposit     (247 )   (9.96)%         (1,722 )   (43.53)%
    Collateralized mortgage obligations – agencies     (573 )   (2.58)%         (2,422 )   (10.07)%
    Unrealized gain/(loss) on available-for-sale securities     3,381     (27.76)%         7,160     (44.87)%
    Total available-for-sale     (270 )   (0.28)%         (9,667 )   (9.01)%
    Held-to-maturity state and municipal     (256 )   (32.36)%         (344 )   (39.14)%
    Equity securities     83       5.48 %         192       13.66 %
    Total investment securities   $ (443 )   (0.44)%       $ (9,819 )   (8.96)%
                         

    The amortized cost and fair value of AFS investment securities as of September 30, 2024 were as follows:

        Maturing        
        Due in One Year or Less   After One Year But Within Five Years   After Five Years But Within Ten Years   After Ten Years   Securities with Variable Monthly Payments or Noncontractual Maturities   Total
    U.S. Government and federal agency   $ 6,481   $ 12,951   $   $   $   $ 19,432
    State and municipal     1,624     15,190     1,113     1,070         18,997
    Mortgage backed residential                     44,086     44,086
    Certificates of deposit     2,234                     2,234
    Collateralized mortgage obligations – agencies                     21,640     21,640
    Total amortized cost   $ 10,339   $ 28,141   $ 1,113   $ 1,070   $ 65,726   $ 106,389
    Fair value   $ 10,111   $ 26,620   $ 1,017   $ 1,001   $ 58,842   $ 97,591
                             

    The amortized cost and fair value of HTM investment securities as of September 30, 2024 were as follows:

        Maturing        
        Due in One Year or Less   After One Year But Within Five Years   After Five Years But Within Ten Years   After Ten Years   Securities with Variable Monthly Payments or Noncontractual Maturities   Total
    State and municipal   $ 85   $ 295   $ 155   $   $   $ 535
    Fair value   $ 84   $ 290   $ 152   $   $   $ 526
                             

    Total investment securities have declined in recent periods primarily due to maturities and prepayments. As a result of overall market conditions, we have not replenished maturing securities with new purchases.

    Residential mortgage loans held-for-sale, at fair value

    Loans HFS represent the fair value of loans that have been committed to be sold to the secondary market, but have not yet been delivered. The level of loans HFS fluctuates based on loan demand as well as the timing of loan deliveries to the secondary market.

    Loans and allowance for credit losses

    As outlined in the following tables, our loan portfolio has strategically declined throughout the past 12 months. As a result of current market conditions, we expect minimal loan growth throughout the remainder of 2024. Specifically, our commercial pipeline has declined significantly, and the requests that are being presented are lower dollar balances and often carry an SBA guarantee.

    The following tables outline the composition and changes in the loan portfolio as of:

        9/30/2024   6/30/2024   3/31/2024   12/31/2023   9/30/2023
    Commercial and industrial   $ 109,188     $ 120,331     $ 114,772     $ 118,089     $ 125,330  
    Commercial real estate     855,270       864,200       867,270       870,693       874,870  
    Total commercial loans     964,458       984,531       982,042       988,782       1,000,200  
    Residential mortgage     419,140       418,403       426,762       431,836       431,740  
    Home equity     55,475       53,133       48,568       48,380       47,069  
    Total residential real estate loans     474,615       471,536       475,330       480,216       478,809  
    Consumer     3,316       3,862       4,093       4,473       4,711  
    Gross loans     1,442,389       1,459,929       1,461,465       1,473,471       1,483,720  
    Allowance for credit losses     (14,700 )     (15,300 )     (15,300 )     (15,400 )     (15,400 )
    Loans, net   $ 1,427,689     $ 1,444,629     $ 1,446,165     $ 1,458,071     $ 1,468,320  
                         
    Memo items:                    
    Residential mortgage loans serviced for others   $ 609,113     $ 613,854     $ 619,160     $ 624,765     $ 631,697  
                         
        9/30/2024 vs 6/30/2024       9/30/2024 vs 9/30/2023
        Variance       Variance
        Amount   %       Amount   %
    Commercial and industrial   $ (11,143 )   (9.26)%       $ (16,142 )   (12.88)%
    Commercial real estate     (8,930 )   (1.03)%         (19,600 )   (2.24)%
    Total commercial loans     (20,073 )   (2.04)%         (35,742 )   (3.57)%
    Residential mortgage     737       0.18 %         (12,600 )   (2.92)%
    Home equity     2,342       4.41 %         8,406       17.86 %
    Total residential real estate loans     3,079       0.65 %         (4,194 )   (0.88)%
    Consumer     (546 )   (14.14)%         (1,395 )   (29.61)%
    Gross loans     (17,540 )   (1.20)%         (41,331 )   (2.79)%
    Allowance for credit losses     600     (3.92)%         700     (4.55)%
    Loans, net   $ (16,940 )   (1.17)%       $ (40,631 )   (2.77)%
                         
    Memo items:                    
    Residential mortgage loans serviced for others   $ (4,741 )   (0.77)%       $ (22,584 )   (3.58)%
                         

    The following table presents historical loan balances by portfolio segment as of:

        9/30/2024   6/30/2024   3/31/2024   12/31/2023   9/30/2023
    Loans collectively evaluated                    
    Commercial and industrial   $ 102,523   $ 113,254   $ 112,542   $ 115,665   $ 124,860
    Commercial real estate     854,038     864,026     867,270     870,524     874,701
    Residential mortgage     416,864     416,130     423,881     429,109     428,927
    Home equity     55,416     53,056     48,388     48,136     46,898
    Consumer     3,325     3,862     4,093     4,473     4,711
    Subtotal     1,432,166     1,450,328     1,456,174     1,467,907     1,480,097
    Loans individually evaluated                    
    Commercial and industrial     6,665     7,077     2,230     2,424     470
    Commercial real estate     1,232     174         169     169
    Residential mortgage     2,276     2,273     2,881     2,727     2,813
    Home equity     48     77     180     244     171
    Consumer     2                
    Subtotal     10,223     9,601     5,291     5,564     3,623
    Gross Loans   $ 1,442,389   $ 1,459,929   $ 1,461,465   $ 1,473,471   $ 1,483,720
                         

    The following table presents historical allowance for credit losses allocations by portfolio segment as of:

        9/30/2024   6/30/2024   3/31/2024   12/31/2023   9/30/2023
    Allowance for credit losses for collectively evaluated loans                    
    Commercial and industrial   $ 1,436   $ 1,434   $ 1,300   $ 1,407   $ 1,362
    Commercial real estate     8,347     8,903     8,359     8,467     8,703
    Residential mortgage     4,131     4,133     4,202     4,409     4,439
    Home equity     348     327     305     321     315
    Consumer     51     80     38     44     36
    Unallocated             670     355     294
    Subtotal     14,313     14,877     14,874     15,003     15,149
    Allowance for credit losses for individually evaluated loans                    
    Commercial and industrial     385     423     423     363     248
    Commercial real estate                    
    Residential mortgage             3     34     3
    Home equity                    
    Consumer     2                
    Unallocated                    
    Subtotal     387     423     426     397     251
    Allowance for credit losses   $ 14,700   $ 15,300   $ 15,300   $ 15,400   $ 15,400
                         
    Commercial and industrial   $ 1,784   $ 1,857   $ 1,723   $ 1,770   $ 1,610
    Commercial real estate     8,347     8,903     8,359     8,467     8,703
    Residential mortgage     4,131     4,133     4,205     4,443     4,442
    Home equity     348     327     305     321     315
    Consumer     53     80     38     44     36
    Unallocated             670     355     294
    Allowance for credit losses   $ 14,700   $ 15,300   $ 15,300   $ 15,400   $ 15,400
                         

    Loan concentration analysis

    As a result of current economic conditions, there continues to be a heightened focus in the financial industry for non-owner occupied commercial real estate loans, most specifically retail and office space industries. While we continue to monitor various industries that have been impacted by the pandemic, we also continue to monitor the effects of inflation, supply chain disruption, elevated interest rates, and office space usage associated with an increased remote workforce. The overall credit quality indicators of non-owner occupied commercial real estate loan portfolio have remained strong. Performance is based on debt service coverage ratio, loan to value ratio and payment trends. As of September 30, 2024, there were no delinquencies in the non-owner occupied commercial real estate loan portfolio. We expect the non-owner occupied commercial real estate loan portfolio to experience insignificant growth, if any, in future periods.

    Within the net lease and retail strip center non-owner occupied commercial real estate pools, we have exposure to Rite Aid. During the fourth quarter of 2023, Rite Aid, which operates over 2,000 retail pharmacies across 17 states, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. During the third quarter of 2024, Rite Aid announced that it successfully emerged from bankruptcy protection and will now operate as a private company. However, all Rite Aid stores in Michigan were closed as part of the company’s restructuring. As a result, one commercial real estate loan was partially charged off and its remaining balance was moved to nonaccrual status during the third quarter of 2024. We continue to actively monitor five remaining loans previously associated with Rite Aid.

    With the ongoing pressures on the office sector due to remote work capabilities and less required office space, we continue to monitor the office pool more closely for potential deterioration. It is not expected that there will be much, if any, impact on portfolio performance in this pool in the near future due to existing lease terms, tenant mix, office size, and strong underwriting at origination. Due to current economic uncertainty and the pressures noted above, it is unlikely that we will seek new loan originations in the non-owner occupied office pool in 2024.

    Below is a description of each industry pool within the non-owner occupied commercial real estate loan portfolio:

    Net lease: Loans in this pool represent national credit tenants (or franchisees of the same) or large regional tenants with excellent credit. These loans are typically single tenant net lease credits with strong debt service coverage ratios and lease terms that extend beyond the maturity of the loan.

    Retail strip centers: Loans in this pool represent loans collateralized by retail strip centers. The tenant base within this pool consists primarily of retail space whose average lease periods run between one and ten years. Larger strip centers are usually anchored by a national or regional tenant. Guarantors in this category typically have large liquid reserves.

    Office: Loans in this pool represent loans collateralized by non-owner occupied office buildings. The tenant base includes legal and other professional services whose average lease periods run from three to fifteen years.

    Special use: Loans in this pool represent loans collateralized by special use buildings, which include hotels, motels, assisted living and nursing homes that are not classified as construction or SBA loans.

    Industrial: Loans in this pool represent investment properties used for manufacturing and production.

    Medical office: Loans in this pool represent loans collateralized by non-owner occupied medical office buildings. The tenant base includes medical services whose average lease periods run from three to fifteen years.

    Self storage: Loans in this pool represent self storage buildings. Loan terms are generally five years or less and the lease terms of the units are typically on a month-to-month basis.

    Mixed use: Loans in this pool represent loans collateralized by mixed use real estate. The tenant base within this pool consists primarily of office-retail, office-residential or retail-residential space. The properties are most often purchased by individuals for investment purposes.

    Retail: Loans in this pool represent loans collateralized by single tenant retail buildings whose average lease periods run over five years.

    The following tables present the composition of current and historical non-owner occupied commercial real estate loans, based on loan collateral, by industry pool:

        9/30/2024   6/30/2024   3/31/2024   12/31/2023   9/30/2023
    Net lease   $ 137,406     $ 141,064     $ 147,103   $ 149,056     $ 160,077  
    Retail strip centers     106,948       106,631       107,834     98,588       96,567  
    Office     61,897       62,237       61,657     61,822       62,959  
    Special use     71,307       71,006       58,278     58,710       57,612  
    Industrial     23,338       23,107       22,575     28,380       28,906  
    Medical office     24,551       24,818       25,380     25,842       28,591  
    Self storage     32,797       32,502       25,660     23,455       21,993  
    Mixed use     16,829       16,980       17,174     17,335       19,833  
    Retail     15,183       17,191       12,533     12,981       14,115  
                         
    Total non-owner occupied commercial real estate loans   $ 490,256     $ 495,536     $ 478,194   $ 476,169     $ 490,653  
                         
        9/30/2024 vs 6/30/2024       9/30/2024 vs 9/30/2023
        Variance       Variance
        Amount   %       Amount   %
    Net lease   $ (3,658 )   (2.59)%       $ (22,671 )   (14.16)%
    Retail strip centers     317       0.30 %         10,381       10.75 %
    Office     (340 )   (0.55)%         (1,062 )   (1.69)%
    Special use     301       0.42 %         13,695       23.77 %
    Industrial     231       1.00 %         (5,568 )   (19.26)%
    Medical office     (267 )   (1.08)%         (4,040 )   (14.13)%
    Self storage     295       0.91 %         10,804       49.12 %
    Mixed use     (151 )   (0.89)%         (3,004 )   (15.15)%
    Retail     (2,008 )   (11.68)%         1,068       7.57 %
                         
    Total non-owner occupied commercial real estate loans   $ (5,280 )   (1.07)%       $ (397 )   (0.08)%
                         

    The following table presents the average loan size of current and historical non-owner occupied commercial real estate loans, based on loan collateral, by industry pool:

        9/30/2024   6/30/2024   3/31/2024   12/31/2023   9/30/2023
    Net lease   $ 1,383   $ 1,291   $ 1,311   $ 1,316   $ 1,300
    Retail strip centers     2,379     2,197     2,231     2,135     2,115
    Office     1,370     1,363     1,296     1,297     1,294
    Special use     2,612     2,546     2,064     2,079     2,134
    Industrial     933     925     941     1,092     1,072
    Medical office     1,116     1,128     1,103     1,078     1,145
    Self storage     1,923     1,926     1,509     1,380     1,692
    Mixed use     1,324     1,334     1,321     1,333     1,240
    Retail     407     513     447     461     429
                         
    Total non-owner occupied commercial real estate loans   $ 1,489   $ 1,448   $ 1,392   $ 1,379   $ 1,362
                         

    The following table presents current and historical non-owner occupied commercial real estate loans, based on loan collateral, by industry pool as a percentage of gross loans:

        9/30/2024   6/30/2024   3/31/2024   12/31/2023   9/30/2023
    Net lease   9.53 %   9.66 %   10.07 %   10.12 %   10.79 %
    Retail strip centers   7.41 %   7.30 %   7.38 %   6.69 %   6.51 %
    Office   4.29 %   4.26 %   4.22 %   4.20 %   4.24 %
    Special use   4.94 %   4.86 %   3.99 %   3.98 %   3.88 %
    Industrial   1.62 %   1.58 %   1.54 %   1.93 %   1.95 %
    Medical office   1.70 %   1.70 %   1.74 %   1.75 %   1.93 %
    Self storage   2.27 %   2.23 %   1.76 %   1.59 %   1.48 %
    Mixed use   1.17 %   1.16 %   1.18 %   1.18 %   1.34 %
    Retail   1.05 %   1.18 %   0.86 %   0.88 %   0.95 %
                         
    Total non-owner occupied commercial real estate loans to gross loans   33.98 %   33.93 %   32.74 %   32.32 %   33.07 %
                         

    Asset quality

    The following table summarizes our current, past due, and nonaccrual loans as of:

        9/30/2024   6/30/2024   3/31/2024   12/31/2023   9/30/2023
    Accruing interest                    
    Current   $ 1,428,014   $ 1,445,780   $ 1,451,432   $ 1,463,668   $ 1,477,386
    Past due 30-89 days     4,152     4,534     4,344     4,239     2,711
    Past due 90 days or more         14     398        
    Total accruing interest     1,432,166     1,450,328     1,456,174     1,467,907     1,480,097
    Nonaccrual     10,223     9,601     5,291     5,564     3,623
    Total loans   $ 1,442,389   $ 1,459,929   $ 1,461,465   $ 1,473,471   $ 1,483,720
    Total loans past due and in nonaccrual status   $ 14,375   $ 14,149   $ 10,033   $ 9,803   $ 6,334
                         

    The following table summarizes the our nonperforming assets as of:

        9/30/2024   6/30/2024   3/31/2024   12/31/2023   9/30/2023
    Nonaccrual loans   $ 10,223   $ 9,601   $ 5,291   $ 5,564   $ 3,623
    Accruing loans past due 90 days or more         14     398        
    Total nonperforming loans     10,223     9,615     5,689     5,564     3,623
    Other real estate owned     293     293     345     597     345
    Total nonperforming assets   $ 10,516   $ 9,908   $ 6,034   $ 6,161   $ 3,968
                         

    The following table summarizes our charge-offs, recoveries and allowance for credit losses as of, and for the three-month periods ended:

        9/30/2024   6/30/2024   3/31/2024   12/31/2023   9/30/2023
    Total charge-offs   $ 1,814   $ 814   $ 86     $ 110     $ 16  
    Total recoveries     11     18     29       300       455  
    Net charge-offs (recoveries)   $ 1,803   $ 796   $ 57     $ (190 )   $ (439 )
    Allowance for credit losses   $ 1,203   $ 796   $ (43 )   $ (190 )   $ (309 )
                         

    During the third quarter of 2024, we partially charged off one commercial real estate loan for $1,443 related to the Rite Aid bankruptcy filing. We believe that the credit characteristics are unique and are not an indication of softening in the remainder of our commercial loan portfolio.

    The following table summarizes the our primary asset quality measures as of:

        9/30/2024   6/30/2024   3/31/2024   12/31/2023   9/30/2023
    Nonperforming loans to gross loans   0.71 %   0.66 %   0.39 %   0.38 %   0.24 %
    Nonperforming assets to total assets   0.58 %   0.56 %   0.34 %   0.35 %   0.23 %
    Allowance for credit losses to gross loans   1.02 %   1.05 %   1.05 %   1.05 %   1.04 %
    Net charge-offs (recoveries) to QTD average gross loans   0.12 %   0.05 %   %   (0.01)%   (0.03)%
    Credit loss expense (reversal) to QTD average gross loans   0.08 %   0.05 %   %   (0.01)%   (0.02)%
                         

    The following table summarizes the average loan size as of:

        9/30/2024   6/30/2024   3/31/2024   12/31/2023   9/30/2023
    Commercial and industrial   $ 310   $ 343   $ 326   $ 334   $ 353
    Commercial real estate     901     906     900     905     896
    Total commercial loans     740     754     746     752     751
    Residential mortgage     235     234     234     236     234
    Home equity     58     56     53     53     52
    Total residential real estate loans     173     173     174     175     174
    Consumer     12     13     13     13     12
    Gross loans   $ 335   $ 337   $ 336   $ 337   $ 335
                         

    All other assets

    The following tables outline the composition and changes in other assets as of:

        9/30/2024   6/30/2024   3/31/2024   12/31/2023   9/30/2023
    Premises and equipment, net   $ 13,203     $ 13,661     $ 14,111   $ 14,561     $ 14,928  
    Federal Home Loan Bank stock     9,179       9,179       9,179     9,179       9,179  
    Corporate owned life insurance     28,129       27,877       27,670     27,466       27,274  
    Mortgage servicing rights     8,461       8,636       8,680     8,776       8,884  
    Accrued interest receivable     4,354       4,747       4,869     4,472       4,485  
    Goodwill     8,853       8,853       8,853     8,853       8,853  
    Other assets                    
    Core deposit intangibles     400       444       488     533       609  
    Right-of-use assets     1,062       1,142       1,237     1,333       1,426  
    Other real estate owned     293       293       345     597       345  
    Other     4,445       5,971       6,406     6,088       6,691  
    Total     6,200       7,850       8,476     8,551       9,071  
    All other assets   $ 78,379     $ 80,803     $ 81,838   $ 81,858     $ 82,674  
                         
        9/30/2024 vs 6/30/2024       9/30/2024 vs 9/30/2023
        Variance       Variance
        Amount   %       Amount   %
    Premises and equipment, net   $ (458 )   (3.35)%       $ (1,725 )   (11.56)%
    Federal Home Loan Bank stock           %               %
    Corporate owned life insurance     252       0.90 %         855       3.13 %
    Mortgage servicing rights     (175 )   (2.03)%         (423 )   (4.76)%
    Accrued interest receivable     (393 )   (8.28)%         (131 )   (2.92)%
    Goodwill           %               %
    Other assets                    
    Core deposit intangibles     (44 )   (9.91)%         (209 )   (34.32)%
    Right-of-use assets     (80 )   (7.01)%         (364 )   (25.53)%
    Other real estate owned           %         (52 )   (15.07)%
    Other     (1,526 )   (25.56)%         (2,246 )   (33.57)%
    Total     (1,650 )   (21.02)%         (2,871 )   (31.65)%
    All other assets   $ (2,424 )   (3.00)%       $ (4,295 )   (5.20)%
                         

    The annual decrease in premises and equipment was due to depreciation on our existing premises and equipment.

    Total deposits

    The following tables outline the composition and changes in the deposit portfolio as of:

        9/30/2024   6/30/2024   3/31/2024   12/31/2023   9/30/2023
    Noninterest bearing demand   $ 398,338     $ 404,521     $ 401,518   $ 423,019     $ 425,820  
    Interest bearing                    
    Savings     264,337       262,538       274,922     273,302       293,310  
    Money market demand     250,715       230,304       229,584     223,827       225,138  
    NOW                    
    Retail NOW     202,030       205,383       203,614     178,892       198,271  
    Brokered NOW                            
                         
    Total NOW Accounts     202,030       205,383       203,614     178,892       198,271  
    Time deposits                    
    Other time deposits     294,862       264,009       268,466     234,838       198,509  
    Brokered time deposits     60,304       60,304       60,304     60,304       60,251  
    Internet time deposits                           498  
                         
    Total time deposits     355,166       324,313       328,770     295,142       259,258  
                         
    Total deposits   $ 1,470,586     $ 1,427,059     $ 1,438,408   $ 1,394,182     $ 1,401,797  
                         
        9/30/2024 vs 6/30/2024       9/30/2024 vs 9/30/2023
        Variance       Variance
        Amount   %       Amount   %
    Noninterest bearing demand   $ (6,183 )   (1.53)%       $ (27,482 )   (6.45)%
    Interest bearing                    
    Savings     1,799       0.69 %         (28,973 )   (9.88)%
    Money market demand     20,411       8.86 %         25,577       11.36 %
    NOW                    
    Retail NOW     (3,353 )   (1.63)%         3,759       1.90 %
    Brokered NOW           %               %
                         
    Total NOW Accounts     (3,353 )   (1.63)%         3,759       1.90 %
    Time deposits                    
    Other time deposits     30,853       11.69 %         96,353       48.54 %
    Brokered time deposits           %         53       0.09 %
    Internet time deposits           %         (498 )   (100.00)%
                         
    Total time deposits     30,853       9.51 %         95,908       36.99 %
                         
    Total deposits   $ 43,527       3.05 %       $ 68,789       4.91 %
                         

    Between March 2022 and July 2023, the FOMC raised its target federal funds rate 11 times, from a target range of 0.00-0.25% to 5.25-5.50%, or 525 basis points, in order to combat rising inflation. This rapid increase in interest rates led to significant competition amongst financial institutions for deposits. In September 2024, the FOMC lowered the target federal funds rate 50 basis points to a target range of 4.75-5.00%. Due to the overall uncertainty regarding potential rate changes in the future, customers have not sought out long-term funds, leading to a shift in demand to higher-yielding non-maturity deposit accounts as well as short-term time deposits.

    Total borrowed funds

    The following tables outline the composition and changes in borrowed funds as of:

        9/30/2024   6/30/2024   3/31/2024   12/31/2023   9/30/2023
    Federal Home Loan Bank borrowings   $ 160,000   $ 160,000     $ 160,000   $ 180,000     $ 180,000  
    Subordinated debentures     14,000     14,000       14,000     14,000       14,000  
    Other borrowings     5,970     4,397       4,500     4,500       7,050  
    Total borrowed funds   $ 179,970   $ 178,397     $ 178,500   $ 198,500     $ 201,050  
                         
        9/30/2024 vs 6/30/2024       9/30/2024 vs 9/30/2023
        Variance       Variance
        Amount   %       Amount   %
    Federal Home Loan Bank borrowings   $     %       $ (20,000 )   (11.11)%
    Subordinated debentures         %               %
    Other borrowings     1,573     35.77 %         (1,080 )   (15.32)%
    Total borrowed funds   $ 1,573     0.88 %       $ (21,080 )   (10.48)%
                         

    We utilize a mix of borrowed funds and organic deposit growth to fund loan demand. As loan growth has slowed in recent periods, our reliance on FHLB advances has declined.

    Wholesale funding sources

    Although we have been successful at growing market deposits, we utilize wholesale funding sources when necessary to fill gaps when asset growth outpaces deposit growth. Our wholesale funding sources include Federal Home Loan Bank borrowings, correspondent Fed Funds lines and brokered deposits. Although wholesale funding sources are typically more expensive than core deposits, they are an integral part of our funding.

    The following tables outline the composition and changes in wholesale funding sources as of:

        9/30/2024   6/30/2024   3/31/2024   12/31/2023   9/30/2023
    Federal Home Loan Bank borrowings   $ 160,000   $ 160,000     $ 160,000   $ 180,000     $ 180,000  
    Subordinated debentures     14,000     14,000       14,000     14,000       14,000  
    Other borrowings     5,970     4,397       4,500     4,500       7,050  
    Brokered NOW accounts                          
    Brokered time deposits     60,304     60,304       60,304     60,304       60,251  
    Internet time deposits                         498  
    Total wholesale funds   $ 240,274   $ 238,701     $ 238,804   $ 258,804     $ 261,799  
                         
        9/30/2024 vs 6/30/2024       9/30/2024 vs 9/30/2023
        Variance       Variance
        Amount   %       Amount   %
    Federal Home Loan Bank borrowings   $     %         (20,000 )   (11.11)%
    Subordinated debentures         %               %
    Other borrowings     1,573     35.77 %         (1,080 )   (15.32)%
    Brokered NOW accounts       N/A             N/A
    Brokered time deposits         %         53       0.09 %
    Internet time deposits       N/A         (498 )   (100.00)%
    Total wholesale funds   $ 1,573     0.66 %       $ (21,525 )   (8.22)%
                         

    Accrued interest payable and other liabilities

    Accrued interest payable and other liabilities includes accrued interest payable, federal income taxes payable, deferred federal income taxes payable, and all other liabilities (none of which are individually significant).

    Total shareholders’ equity

    We are considered a “well-capitalized” institution, as our capital ratios exceed the minimum designated standards necessary in accordance with Basel III guidelines. As of September 30, 2024, the Bank’s total capital ratio was 12.78%, tier 1 capital ratio was 11.72%, and tier 1 leverage ratio was 9.02%. The minimum requirements to be considered well-capitalized are a total capital ratio of 10.00%, tier 1 capital ratio of 8.00%, and tier 1 leverage ratio of 5.00%. While we continue to be considered well-capitalized, we are focused on enhancing our capital ratios through earnings of the Bank as well as asset growth moderation strategies in 2024.

    The following tables outline the composition and changes in shareholders’ equity as of:

        9/30/2024   6/30/2024   3/31/2024   12/31/2023   9/30/2023
    Common stock   $ 74,826     $ 74,690     $ 74,555     $ 74,230     $ 74,118  
    Retained earnings     78,467       78,094       76,607       74,309       70,972  
    Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income     (6,895 )     (9,483 )     (10,088 )     (9,837 )     (12,188 )
    Total shareholders’ equity   $ 146,398     $ 143,301     $ 141,074     $ 138,702     $ 132,902  
                         
        9/30/2024 vs 6/30/2024       9/30/2024 vs 9/30/2023
        Variance       Variance
        Amount   %       Amount   %
    Common stock   $ 136       0.18 %       $ 708       0.96 %
    Retained earnings     373       0.48 %         7,495       10.56 %
    Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income     2,588     (27.29)%         5,293     (43.43)%
    Total shareholders’ equity   $ 3,097       2.16 %       $ 13,496       10.15 %
                         

    The Board of Directors has authorized the repurchase of up to $10,000 of common stock. As of September 30, 2024, we had $1,393 of common stock available to repurchase through the program. We did not execute any repurchases of our common stock during 2024.

    Stock Performance

    The following table compares the cumulative total shareholder return on our common stock for the year-to-date, 1 year, 3 year, and 5 year periods ended September 30, 2024. The National OTC Peer Group was developed by selecting all OTC traded bank holding companies with total assets between $1 billion and $3 billion as of 03/31/2024 that had a quoted stock price on Bloomberg. The Midwest / Great Lakes OTC Peer Group represents those institutions included in the National OTC Peer Group that are headquartered in Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin.

      # in Peer Group   YTD   1 Year   3 Year   5 Year
    Fentura Financial, Inc. (OTCQX:FETM)     45.40 %   67.28 %   59.12 %   100.80 %
                       
    National OTC Peers 43   (1.01)%   (3.49)%   2.11 %   8.44 %
    Fentura Ranking out of 44     1     1     4     4  
                       
    Midwest / Great Lakes OTC Peers 17   (1.97)%   (5.16)%   (1.63)%   1.35 %
    Fentura Ranking out of 18     1     1     1     1  
                       

    Abbreviations and Acronyms

    ABA: American Bankers Association FTE: Fully taxable equivalent
    ACH: Automated Clearing House GAAP: Generally Accepted Accounting Principles
    ACL: Allowance for credit losses HFS: Held-for-sale
    AFS: Available-for-sale HTM: Held-to-maturity
    AIR: Accrued interest receivable HFS: Held-for-sale
    AOCI: Accumulated other comprehensive income HTM: Held-to-maturity
    ARRC: Alternative Reference Rates Committee IRA: Individual retirement account
    ASC: Accounting Standards Codification ITM: Interactive Teller Machine
    ASU: Accounting Standards Update LIBOR: London Interbank Offered Rate
    ATM: Automated teller machine MSR: Mortgage servicing rights
    CDI: Core deposit intangible N/M: Not meaningful
    CET1: Common equity tier 1 NASDAQ: National Association of Securities Dealers Automated Quotations
    COLI: Corporate owned life insurance NOW: Negotiable order of withdrawal
    DRIP: Dividend Reinvestment Plan NSF: Non-sufficient funds
    EPS: Earnings Per Common Share OCI: Other comprehensive income
    ESOP: Employee Stock Ownership Plan OIS: Overnight Index Swap
    FASB: Financial Accounting Standards Board OREO: Other real estate owned
    FDIC: Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation OTTI: Other-than-temporary impairment
    FHLB: Federal Home Loan Bank QTD: Quarter-to-date
    FHLLC: Fentura Holdings LLC SAB: Staff Accounting Bulletin
    FHLMC: Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation SBA: U.S. Small Business Administration
    FNMA: Federal National Mortgage Association SEC: Securities and Exchange Commission
    FOMC: Federal Open Market Committee SERP: Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan
    FRB: Federal Reserve Bank SOFR: Secured Overnight Funding Rate
    FSB: Farmers State Bank of Munith TLM: Troubled loan modifications
       

    About Fentura Financial, Inc. and The State Bank

    Fentura Financial, Inc. is the holding company for The State Bank. It was formed in 1987 and is traded on the OTCQX exchange under the symbol FETM, and has been recognized as one of the Top 50 performing stocks on that exchange.

    The State Bank is a 5-Star Bauer Financial rated commercial, retail and trust bank headquartered in Fenton, Michigan. It currently operates 20 full-service offices and one loan production center serving Bay, Genesee, Ingham, Jackson, Livingston, Oakland, Saginaw, and Shiawassee counties. The State Bank believes in the potential of banking to help create better lives, better businesses, and better communities, and works to achieve this through its full array of consumer, mortgage, SBA, commercial and wealth management banking and advisory services, together with philanthropic and volunteer support to organizations and groups within the communities it serves. More information can be found at www.thestatebank.com or www.fentura.com.

    Cautionary Statement: This press release contains certain forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements concerning future growth in earning assets and net income. Such statements are subject to certain risks and uncertainties which could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements, including, but not limited to, economic, competitive, governmental and technological factors affecting the Company’s operations, markets, products, services, interest rates and fees for services. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this press release.

    Contacts:  Ronald L. Justice  Aaron D. Wirsing
      President & CEO Chief Financial Officer
      Fentura Financial, Inc.   Fentura Financial, Inc.
      810.714.3902 810.714.3925
      ron.justice@thestatebank.com aaron.wirsing@thestatebank.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Governments strengthening Ontario’s food supply system

    Source: Government of Canada News

    News release

    365 agri-food businesses will receive funding to enhance operational resilience to diseases and pests

    October 25, 2024 – Toronto, Ontario – Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada

    The governments of Canada and Ontario are investing up to $7.5 million to support 365 projects that will help the province’s farmers, food processors, and essential farm-supporting agribusinesses protect their operations against pests and diseases while enhancing operational resilience and strengthening public trust in our food supply system.

    The funding through the Biosecurity Enhancement Initiative, combined with cost-shared investments by the sector, is expected to generate up to $31.5 million in total biosecurity enhancements across Ontario’s agri-food sector.

    Under the initiative, farmers, processors, and select farm-supporting agri-food businesses were eligible for cost-share funding ranging from 35% to 50%, depending on the project category. Supported activities include the implementation of technologies that reduce the spread of animal and plant diseases and capital upgrades that enhance biosecurity (such as constructing isolation facilities and wash bays).

    Examples of projects include:

    • Up to $50,000 for a sheep farm in Clarington to build a new barn to improve its on-farm isolation and separation processes.
    • Up to $50,000 for an Ottawa-area farm to purchase and implement an electronic traceability collection system to improve biosecurity and animal health for its cattle farming operation.
    • Up to $29,353 for a berry farm in Niagara Region for a steam treatment system to eliminate damaging pests and diseases.

    This initiative is funded through the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (Sustainable CAP), a 5-year, $3.5-billion investment by federal, provincial and territorial governments to strengthen competitiveness, innovation, and resiliency of Canada’s agriculture, agri‐food and agri‐based products sector. This includes $1 billion in federal programs and activities and a $2.5-billion commitment that is cost-shared 60% federally and 40% provincially/territorially for programs that are designed and delivered by provinces and territories.

    Quotes

    “Keeping our food safe while applying best management practices is vital to ensuring Ontario’s agri-food system continues to thrive. These projects will help enhance biosecurity along our supply chains so we can keep feeding Canadians, and the world.”

    – The Honourable Lawrence MacAulay, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food

    “Maintaining and strengthening Ontario’s world-class food safety system is the number one priority for this ministry. This initiative builds on our government’s consistent record of enhancing the resilience of Ontario’s food supply chains and boosting our standing as a globally trusted producer of agri-food commodities and goods.”

    – Rob Flack, Ontario Minister of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness

    “We are pleased with the government’s Biosecurity Enhancement Initiative, which has enabled 70 producers to enhance biosecurity measures on their farms. This funding plays an important role in protecting the health of our livestock, ensuring the long-term sustainability of our industry, and maintaining confidence in the safety of Ontario-produced pork. By investing in biosecurity, we are strengthening our farms and safeguarding our food system against potential threats.”

    – Tara Terpstra, Board Chair, Ontario Pork

    Quick facts

    • Enhancing the sector’s ability to anticipate, mitigate and respond to diseases and pests was a key priority set for Sustainable CAP by the federal-provincial-territorial agricultural ministers in The Guelph Statement.

    • In 2023, Ontario’s agri-food industry contributed almost $51 billion in GDP to the provincial economy and employed over 871,000 people.

    Associated links

    Contacts

    For media:

    Annie Cullinan
    Director of Communications
    Office of the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food
    annie.cullinan@agr.gc.ca

    Media Relations
    Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada
    Ottawa, Ontario
    613-773-7972
    1-866-345-7972
    aafc.mediarelations-relationsmedias.aac@agr.gc.ca
    Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn
    Web: Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada

    Makena Mahoney
    Minister’s Office
    Makena.Mahoney@ontario.ca

    Meaghan Evans
    Communications Branch
    OMAFRA.media@ontario.ca
    519-826-3145

    MIL OSI Canada News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Adams Honored at Stratford Richardson YMCA After Securing Funds for New Clinic

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Alma Adams (12th District of North Carolina)

    Appropriations and community project funding bearing fruit for Mecklenburg and Cabarrus Counties

    CHARLOTTE – Yesterday, Congresswoman Alma S. Adams, Ph.D. (NC-12) was honored by the YMCA of Greater Charlotte for her years of service to the community and the role she played in securing $2 million for the construction of their new Atrium Health Community Care Primary Care West Boulevard Family Medicine Clinic. This on-campus clinic will help provide quality, affordable care to those in need. 

    “By providing minor surgical procedures, women’s care, pediatric care, and other preventive services, the Atrium Health Community Care Primary Care West Boulevard Family Medicine Clinic will be the difference between a family having to pay exorbitant emergency room fees and getting immediate treatment,” said Rep. Adams. “I am deeply honored to be chosen for the YMCA of Greater Charlotte’s inaugural ‘Champion of Change’ award. This work is personal for me and this clinic is an important step in closing the healthcare gaps that exist in our community.  Healthcare is one of my four H’s, so I am proud to have helped support this clinic and the YMCA of Greater Charlotte by securing funding towards its development.”  

    “We owe a debt of gratitude not only to Congresswoman Adams but also to our incredible partners—Atrium Health, our YMCA team, the congresswoman’s team, our elected officials, and our community partners,” said Sue Glass, President & CEO, YMCA of Greater Charlotte. “Together, through advocacy, commitment, and collaboration, we are transforming the Stratford Richardson YMCA campus into a catalyst for positive impact in Charlotte’s West Boulevard Corridor. 

    Other appropriations information and community project funding awards are available on Rep. Adams’ website. 

    ### 

    Congresswoman Alma S. Adams, Ph.D. represents North Carolina’s 12th Congressional District (Charlotte, Mecklenburg County, Cabarrus County) and serves on the House Committee on Agriculture and the House Committee on Education & the Workforce, where she serves as ranking member of the Workforce Protections Subcommittee. 

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Historic Deployment: First time in 70 years, the Wyoming Army Guard 2-300th Field Artillery Regiment deploys together

    Source: US State of Wyoming

    The Wyoming National Guard held send-off ceremonies for different batteries of the 2nd Battalion, 300th Field Artillery Regiment in Torrington, Gillette, Lander and Casper on July 30, 2024, supporting the Soldiers and their families as they embark on their eighth deployment in the past 20 years.

    The send-off ceremony formally recognizes the Soldiers and their families who are about to deploy. It also demonstrates that they have the full support of their community, leadership and loved ones, according to Lt. Col. Michael Kingman, 2-300th commander. This is the first full battalion deployment in over 70 years to conduct a field artillery mission.

    “This deployment marks the eighth time since September 11, 2001, that this formation has answered the nation’s call,” Kingman said. “Most of those deployments involved only portions of the battalion. This mission marks the first time the battalion has deployed as an integrated whole on a field artillery mission since the Korean War.”

    More than 360 Soldiers will deploy to several Middle Eastern countries to support Operations Spartan Shield and Inherent Resolve.

    The ceremony started with the arrival of the official party.

    Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon presided over the ceremonies, joined by Maj. Gen. Greg Porter, Wyoming adjutant general, Chief Master Sgt. Josh Moore, command senior enlisted leader for the Wyoming Guard, Lt. Col. Michael Kingman, 2-300th commander, Command Sgt. Maj. Spencer Jolly, 2-300th command sergeant major, along with other battery and company leadership.

    In the next part of the ceremony, Governor Gordon, General Porter, and Lieutenant Colonel Kingman shared their commitment to support and gratitude.

    Since taking office in 2019, the governor has made it a point to personally send off each service member and their families during deployments. He shared his thoughts with the Soldiers.

    “You are Wyoming proud, Wyoming strong, Wyoming proficient and Wyoming professional,” the governor said. “Thank you. All of us at home, your families, and all of us will know you are protecting us. We thank you from the depths of our hearts, from the bottom of our souls.”

    Governor Gordon also expressed his commitment to the families.

    “We feel that as much service as our men and women on the front lines give, it is also their families that stand watch,” he said. “We will stand 100 percent with the families as well. Thank you to every family member for your service.”

    General Porter spoke about the 2-300th’s rich history of serving the nation.

    “For over 136 years, Wyoming citizen Soldiers have raised their right hands and said, ‘I will do the nation’s bidding. I will wear the cloth of my country and go forth to do what needs to be done,’” the general said. “That is an incredible sacrifice, and I deeply appreciate all of you here in the community who are here to congratulate and recognize that sacrifice.”

    General Porter also highlighted the role of Soldiers as community members.

    “They are also mothers and fathers, sisters and brothers, friends, family members, coaches, ministers and teachers. Our guardsmen and women are an indelible part of the community, and when they leave, they leave a gap,” Porter said. “We will fill this gap for you. We will ensure your community is safe while you deploy, and more importantly, we will ensure your families are taken care of.”

    Lieutenant Colonel Kingman also thanked the families for their sacrifices and encouraged families to reach out if they need assistance.

    “It’s been said, and I believe it to be true, that they have the tougher task, staying behind,” he said. “For the Soldier who goes forward, time often flies. We will be mission-focused here very soon, and these 60 days will go by quickly because we will be busy. But for all the friends and family at home facing the daily grind, they will be going through that without the needed support from their loved ones at their side. I encourage you all to not suffer in silence. If you need someone to talk to, need encouragement, need a hot water heater fixed, or if a door won’t close properly—whatever it is—reach out. We have someone who is not only willing but eager to assist in solving whatever problem comes up.”

    The following segments are long-standing traditions of presenting an “Entering Wyoming” highway sign, the Wyoming flag and casing the 2-300th colors.

    An “Entering Wyoming” highway sign was presented to each battery. The sign will be displayed at each headquarters. Similar signs have been given to every Wyoming Army National Guard unit that has deployed since the Korean War.

    “For the Wyoming National Guard, this sign serves as a visual reminder to all who enter the area that they are in Cowboy Guard territory,” said 1st Lt. Chad Onthank, 920th Forward Support Command executive officer.

    Next, the governor presented the Wyoming flag to the 2-300th to remind each Soldier that those Wyomingites at home are with you every step of the way.

    Finally, Kingman and Jolly cased the battalion colors to show the unit has a mission forward and will deploy.

    For the deployment, Kingman issued a challenge to his Soldiers.

    “I am committed to ensuring that you have the best possible leadership and training every step of the way,” he said. “I am confident that if you work hard, are a good teammate, and keep a positive attitude, we can all come out of this experience as better friends, spouses, parents, Soldiers and human beings.”

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hageman Protects Private Landowners Through PASTURES Act

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Wyoming Congresswoman Harriet Hageman

    Washington, D.C.  – Today Congresswoman Harriet Hageman introduced the Protecting Agricultural Spaces Through Effective Ranching Strategies (PASTURES) Act which will safeguard landowners with property adjacent to federally leased land from federal enforcement actions related to livestock trespassing. 

    “The Biden-Harris Administration continues to reduce grazing opportunities for livestock producers who hold federal grazing leases. This administration is making it increasingly difficult for ranchers on public and private lands to adjust to sudden changes in allocations – often creating circumstances where livestock cross into unfenced land, which ultimately results in heavy penalties for the rancher. My bill will prohibit federal land management agencies from enforcing a trespass after permits or leases are adjusted or rescinded – until the relevant land management agency constructs a fence to keep the livestock out.” Hageman stated. “Livestock grazing is an important land management tool that we should be using more, not less, on our federal lands. This legislation would help ranchers while also requiring our agencies to be better neighbors on our public lands by applying these appropriate fencing protocols.”

    Margaret Byfield, Executive Director of American Stewards of Liberty, stated “The Pasture Act will prevent the misuse of regulatory authorities by federal land management agencies and increase protections for American landowners. It is common for allotments on federal lands to be unfenced even when bordering other properties. These operations were designed to have as few barriers as possible to facilitate open corridors for livestock and wildlife. Yet, this responsible stewardship practice can too easily be used to entrap landowners when unfenced allotments are canceled by the agency. Congress needs to reign in federal agencies powers, and this Act is a key step towards this end.”

    The PASTURES Act provides ranchers with the security and stability needed to continue their operations after significant federal decisions are made regarding the surrounding land. The bill has the support of the American Stewards of Liberty, Wyoming Farm Bureau, Wyoming Stock Growers Association and R-CALF USA.

    ###

    Contact: Chris Berardi, Sr. Advisor/Communications Director

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: THOMPSON INTRODUCES RESOLUTION CELEBRATING 15 YEARS OF OUTDOOR AFRO

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Mike Thompson Representing the 5th District of CALIFORNIA

    Washington – Today, Rep. Mike Thompson (CA-04) announced the introduction of a resolution alongside Reps. Steve Horsford (NV-04), Barbara Lee (CA-12), John Garamendi (CA-08), Steve Cohen (TN-09), Jared Huffman (CA-02), Nanette Barragán (CA-44), Troy A. Carter, Sr. (LA-02), Rep. Marc Veasey (TX-33), and Jim Costa (CA-21) to mark the 15-year anniversary of Outdoor Afro, a national not-for-profit organization connecting Black Americans with nature and outdoor recreation.

    “For 15 years, Outdoor Afro has worked to restore Black-American leadership in nature and reconnect Black Americans to our nation’s lands, water, and wildlife.” said Rep. Thompson. “It’s great to join my colleagues to recognize Outdoor Afro’s profound impact and celebrate their ongoing work to conserve public lands and make outdoor recreation activities more accessible.” 

    “On behalf of Outdoor Afro, I am deeply grateful for this recognition commemorating our 15th anniversary,” said Outdoor Afro Founder and CEO, Rue Mapp. “Over the past decade and a half, our work to reconnect Black communities with the outdoors has been made possible through the steadfast support of many congressional House and Senate Members, and three presidential administrations. This recognition symbolizes not only a milestone in our journey, but also a testament to the collective efforts of all who have believed in our mission that is shaping a better outdoor experience in our public lands for all.”

    “As we mark the 15th anniversary of Outdoor Afro, I’m proud to recognize local groups in my district like Black People Hike LV for their commitment to making the outdoors accessible,” said Rep. Horsford. “I’ve had the opportunity to hike with them just outside Las Vegas, and their work to connect our community with nature is important for our communities. These efforts help ensure everyone can enjoy and benefit from the beautiful natural spaces that Nevada has to offer.”

    “I am pleased to cosponsor this resolution recognizing the 15th anniversary of Outdoor Afro, a nonprofit organization that has made outdoor spaces more inclusive and accessible for all. Over the past 15 years, Outdoor Afro has worked tirelessly to reconnect Black communities with nature, fostering leadership and environmental stewardship across the country. By breaking down barriers and promoting diversity in outdoor recreation, they’ve ensured that our public lands truly belong to everyone. I’m proud to support this effort to honor their mission and look forward to many more years of their continued success,” said Rep. Garamendi.

    “I am inspired by how Outdoor Afro has opened doors to natural spaces and empowered communities of color to lead in environmental stewardship,” said Rep. Barragán. “Outdoor Afro has fostered a deep sense of community, healing, and environmental responsibility in the Black community. Their efforts ensure that future generations—especially those from underserved communities—will have the opportunity to both enjoy and protect our natural world. Nature belongs to everyone, and we should all learn to appreciate, interact with, and help preserve it.”

    “The 15th anniversary of Outdoor Afro shows that we have made progress reconnecting Black Americans with nature through thousands of outdoor events across the United States, challenging stereotypes, increasing representation, and fostering community healing and environmental stewardship. Outdoor Afro has broken barriers in outdoor education, empowering Black Americans to develop lifelong skills in land and water-based activities while leading the way for greater inclusion in outdoor recreation and conservation for all,” said Rep. Carter.  

    “Celebrating 15 years of Outdoor Afro is not just a milestone; it’s a testament to the resilience and unity of our community. Our Fresno Chapter exemplifies this through activities like camping, yoga, hiking, and beyond—that inspire Black leadership and forge lasting connections as seen during my recent visit to Nova Farming in my district. I’m proud to join my colleagues in recognizing this incredible organization and its impact on our communities,” said Rep. Costa.

    BACKGROUND

    In 2009, Oakland-native Rue Mapp started Outdoor Afro as a blog about nature. It has since grown into a cutting-edge nationwide network guiding hundreds of outdoor events each year designed to celebrate and inspire Black-American connections to nature.

    Over the past 15 years, Outdoor Afro has cultivated and trained more than 1,000 outdoor leaders, leading thousands of outdoor events and reaching well over 150,000 participants. Today, Outdoor Afro has volunteer leaders in 33 states and the District of Columbia and promotes Black Americans to participate in recreational activities like camping, hiking, birding, fishing, gardening, skiing, biking, environmental education, conservation stewardship and more.

    Outdoor Afro not only promotes a healthy lifestyle, but it also helps communities connect to Black history found in many natural areas and promotes the protection of vulnerable public lands for all to enjoy.

    Read the full text of the resolution here. 

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI: Glacier Bancorp, Inc. Announces Results for the Quarter and Period Ended September 30, 2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    3rd Quarter 2024 Highlights:

    • Diluted earnings per share for the current quarter was $0.45 per share, an increase of 15 percent from the prior quarter diluted earnings per share of $0.39 per share.
    • Net income was $51.1 million for the current quarter, an increase of $6.3 million, or 14 percent, from the prior quarter net income of $44.7 million and a decrease of $1.4 million, or 3 percent, from the prior year third quarter net income of $52.4 million.
    • The net interest margin as a percentage of earning assets, on a tax-equivalent basis, for the current quarter was 2.83 percent, an increase of 15 basis points from the prior quarter net interest margin of 2.68 percent.
    • Net interest income was $180 million for the current quarter, an increase of $13.8 million, or 8 percent, from the prior quarter net interest income of $166 million and an increase of $13.2 million, or 8 percent, from the prior year third quarter net interest income of $167 million.
    • The loan portfolio of $17.181 billion increased $329 million, or 2 percent, during the current quarter and organically increased $57.6 million, or 1 percent annualized, during the current quarter.
    • Total core deposits of $20.711 billion, increased $613 million, or 3 percent, during the current quarter and organically increased $216 million, or 4 percent annualized, during the current quarter.
    • Non-interest bearing deposits of $6.408 billion, increased $314 million, or 5 percent, during the current quarter and organically increased $221 million, or 14 percent annualized, during the current quarter.
    • The loan yield of 5.69 percent in the current quarter increased 11 basis points from the prior quarter loan yield of 5.58 percent and increased 42 basis points from the prior year third quarter loan yield of 5.27 percent.
    • The total cost of funding (including non-interest bearing deposits) of 1.79 percent in the current quarter decreased 1 basis point from the prior quarter total cost of funding of 1.80 percent.
    • Stockholders’ equity of $3.245 billion increased $108 million, or 3 percent, during the current quarter and increased $370 million, or 13 percent, over the prior year third quarter.
    • The Company declared a quarterly dividend of $0.33 per share. The Company has declared 158 consecutive quarterly dividends and has increased the dividend 49 times.
    • The Company completed the acquisition and core system conversion of six Montana branch locations of Rocky Mountain Bank division (“RMB”) of HTLF Bank, a wholly owned subsidiary of Heartland Financial USA, Inc. with total assets of $403 million, total gross loans of $272 million and total deposits of $397 million.

    Year-to-date 2024 Highlights:

    • Net income for the first nine months of 2024 was $128 million, a decrease of $40.2 million, or 24 percent, from the prior year first nine months net income of $169 million.
    • Interest income for the first nine months of 2024 was $843 million, an increase of $98.7 million, or 13 percent, over the $744 million of interest income for the first nine months of 2023.
    • The loan portfolio increased $983 million, or 6 percent, during the first nine months of 2024 and organically increased $261 million, or 2 percent, during the first nine months of 2024.
    • The $2.740 billion of FRB Bank Term Funding (“BTFP”) was paid off during the current year through a combination of Federal Home Loan Bank (“FHLB”) advances and cash.
    • Dividends declared in the first nine months of 2024 were $0.99 per share.
    • The Company completed the acquisition and core system conversion of Community Financial Group, Inc., the parent company of Wheatland Bank (collectively, “Wheatland”), a leading eastern Washington community bank headquartered in Spokane with total assets of $778 million.

    Financial Summary  

      At or for the Three Months ended   At or for the Nine months ended
    (Dollars in thousands, except per share and market data) Sep 30,
    2024
      Jun 30,
    2024
      Mar 31,
    2024
      Sep 30,
    2023
      Sep 30,
    2024
      Sep 30,
    2023
    Operating results                      
    Net income $ 51,055     44,708     32,627     52,445     128,390     168,611  
    Basic earnings per share $ 0.45     0.39     0.29     0.47     1.14     1.52  
    Diluted earnings per share $ 0.45     0.39     0.29     0.47     1.13     1.52  
    Dividends declared per share $ 0.33     0.33     0.33     0.33     0.99     0.99  
    Market value per share                      
    Closing $ 45.70     37.32     40.28     28.50     45.70     28.50  
    High $ 47.71     40.18     42.75     36.45     47.71     50.03  
    Low $ 35.57     34.35     34.74     26.84     34.35     26.77  
    Selected ratios and other data                      
    Number of common stock shares outstanding   113,394,786     113,394,092     113,388,590     110,879,365     113,394,786     110,879,365  
    Average outstanding shares – basic   113,394,758     113,390,539     112,492,142     110,877,534     113,093,583     110,857,788  
    Average outstanding shares – diluted   113,473,107     113,405,491     112,554,402     110,886,959     113,137,861     110,882,718  
    Return on average assets (annualized)   0.73 %   0.66 %   0.47 %   0.75 %   0.62 %   0.83 %
    Return on average equity (annualized)   6.34 %   5.77 %   4.25 %   7.12 %   5.47 %   7.72 %
    Efficiency ratio   64.92 %   67.97 %   74.41 %   63.31 %   68.98 %   62.10 %
    Loan to deposit ratio   83.16 %   84.03 %   82.04 %   79.25 %   83.16 %   79.25 %
    Number of full time equivalent employees   3,434     3,399     3,438     3,314     3,434     3,314  
    Number of locations   232     231     232     221     232     221  
    Number of ATMs   279     286     285     274     279     274  
     

    KALISPELL, Mont., Oct. 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Glacier Bancorp, Inc. (NYSE: GBCI) reported net income of $51.1 million for the current quarter, an increase of $6.3 million, or 14 percent from the prior quarter net income of $44.7 million and a decrease of $1.4 million, or 3 percent, from the $52.4 million of net income for the prior year third quarter. Diluted earnings per share for the current quarter was $0.45 per share, an increase of 15 percent from the prior quarter diluted earnings per share of $0.39 per share and a decrease of 4 percent from the prior year third quarter diluted earnings per share of $0.47. The decrease in net income compared to the prior year third quarter was due to the increase in funding costs and the increased costs associated with the acquisitions of Wheatland and RMB over the prior year third quarter. “Our positive business trends through the third quarter. We were very pleased to see solid earnings, margin and deposit growth,” said Randy Chesler, President and Chief Executive Officer. “We finalized the acquisition of the Rocky Mountain Bank Montana branches from Heartland and welcome the employees to the Glacier team.”

    Net income for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 was $128 million, a decrease of $40.2 million, or 24 percent, from the $169 million net income for the first nine months of the prior year. Diluted earnings per share for the first nine months of 2024 was $1.13 per share, a decrease of $0.39 per share from the prior year first nine months diluted earnings per share of $1.52. The decrease in net income for the first nine months of the current year compared to the prior year first nine months was primarily due to the significant increase in funding costs. In addition, the current year-to-date results included increased operating costs and a $9.7 million provision for credit losses associated with the acquisitions of Wheatland and RMB.

    On July 19, 2024, the Company completed the acquisition of six RMB branches in Montana. The branches have been combined with Glacier Bank divisions operating in Montana, including First Bank of Montana, First Security Bank of Bozeman, First Security Bank of Missoula, Valley Bank, and Western Security Bank. On January 31, 2024, the Company completed the acquisition of Wheatland, headquartered in Spokane, Washington. Wheatland had 14 branches in eastern Washington and was combined with the North Cascades Bank division under the name Wheatland Bank, division of Glacier Bank. The Wheatland Bank division now operates with a combined 23 branches in Central and Eastern Washington and is a Top 5 community bank by deposit share in Eastern Washington. The Company’s results of operations and financial condition include the Wheatland and RMB acquisitions beginning on the acquisition date of each. The following table discloses the preliminary fair value estimates of select classifications of assets and liabilities acquired:

      Wheatland   RMB    
    (Dollars in thousands) January 31,
    2024
      July 19,
    2024
      Total
    Total assets $ 777,659   $ 403,052   $ 1,180,711
    Cash and cash equivalents   12,926     76,781     89,707
    Debt securities   187,183         187,183
    Loans receivable   450,403     271,569     721,972
    Non-interest bearing deposits   277,651     93,534     371,185
    Interest bearing deposits   339,304     303,156     642,460
    Borrowings   58,500     4,305     62,805
    Core deposit intangible   16,936     9,794     26,730
    Goodwill   38,369     29,794     68,163
     

    Asset Summary

                      $ Change from
    (Dollars in thousands) Sep 30,
    2024
      Jun 30,
    2024
      Dec 31,
    2023
      Sep 30,
    2023
      Jun 30,
    2024
      Dec 31,
    2023
      Sep 30,
    2023
    Cash and cash equivalents $ 987,833     800,779     1,354,342     1,672,094     187,054     (366,509 )   (684,261 )
    Debt securities, available-for-sale   4,436,578     4,499,541     4,785,719     4,741,738     (62,963 )   (349,141 )   (305,160 )
    Debt securities, held-to-maturity   3,348,698     3,400,403     3,502,411     3,553,805     (51,705 )   (153,713 )   (205,107 )
    Total debt securities   7,785,276     7,899,944     8,288,130     8,295,543     (114,668 )   (502,854 )   (510,267 )
    Loans receivable                          
    Residential real estate   1,837,697     1,771,528     1,704,544     1,653,777     66,169     133,153     183,920  
    Commercial real estate   10,833,841     10,713,964     10,303,306     10,292,446     119,877     530,535     541,395  
    Other commercial   3,177,051     3,066,028     2,901,863     2,916,785     111,023     275,188     260,266  
    Home equity   931,440     905,884     888,013     869,963     25,556     43,427     61,477  
    Other consumer   401,158     394,587     400,356     402,075     6,571     802     (917 )
    Loans receivable   17,181,187     16,851,991     16,198,082     16,135,046     329,196     983,105     1,046,141  
    Allowance for credit losses   (205,170 )   (200,955 )   (192,757 )   (192,271 )   (4,215 )   (12,413 )   (12,899 )
    Loans receivable, net   16,976,017     16,651,036     16,005,325     15,942,775     324,981     970,692     1,033,242  
    Other assets   2,456,643     2,453,581     2,094,832     2,153,149     3,062     361,811     303,494  
    Total assets $ 28,205,769     27,805,340     27,742,629     28,063,561     400,429     463,140     142,208  
     

    Total debt securities of $7.785 billion at September 30, 2024 decreased $115 million, or 1 percent, during the current quarter and decreased $510 million, or 6 percent, from the prior year third quarter. Debt securities represented 28 percent of total assets at September 30, 2024 compared to 30 percent at December 31, 2023 and 30 percent at September 30, 2023.

    The loan portfolio of $17.181 billion at September 30, 2024 increased $329 million, or 2 percent, during the current quarter. Excluding the RMB acquisition, the loan portfolio organically increased $57.6 million, or 1 percent annualized, during the current quarter. Excluding the RMB and Wheatland acquisitions, the loan portfolio organically increased $261 million, or 2 percent, during the first nine months of 2024 and increased $324 million, or 2 percent, from the prior year third quarter.

    Credit Quality Summary

      At or for the Nine Months ended   At or for the Six Months ended   At or for the Year ended   At or for the Nine Months ended
    (Dollars in thousands) Sep 30,
    2024
      Jun 30,
    2024
      Dec 31,
    2023
      Sep 30,
    2023
    Allowance for credit losses              
    Balance at beginning of period $ 192,757     192,757     182,283     182,283  
    Acquisitions   3     3          
    Provision for credit losses   21,138     14,157     20,790     16,609  
    Charge-offs   (12,406 )   (8,430 )   (15,095 )   (10,284 )
    Recoveries   3,678     2,468     4,779     3,663  
    Balance at end of period $ 205,170     200,955     192,757     192,271  
    Provision for credit losses              
    Loan portfolio $ 21,138     14,157     20,790     16,609  
    Unfunded loan commitments   (1,366 )   (2,390 )   (5,995 )   (4,827 )
    Total provision for credit losses $ 19,772     11,767     14,795     11,782  
    Other real estate owned $ 432     432     1,032      
    Other foreclosed assets   201     198     471     48  
    Accruing loans 90 days or more past due   11,551     4,692     3,312     3,855  
    Non-accrual loans   15,937     12,686     20,816     38,380  
    Total non-performing assets $ 28,121     18,008     25,631     42,283  
    Non-performing assets as a percentage of subsidiary assets   0.10 %   0.06 %   0.09 %   0.15 %
    Allowance for credit losses as a percentage of non-performing loans   730 %   1,116 %   799 %   455 %
    Allowance for credit losses as a percentage of total loans   1.19 %   1.19 %   1.19 %   1.19 %
    Net charge-offs as a percentage of total loans   0.05 %   0.04 %   0.06 %   0.04 %
    Accruing loans 30-89 days past due $ 56,213     49,678     49,967     15,253  
    U.S. government guarantees included in non-performing assets $ 1,802     1,228     1,503     1,057  
     

    Non-performing assets as a percentage of subsidiary assets at September 30, 2024 was 0.10 percent compared to 0.06 percent in the prior quarter and 0.15 percent in the prior year third quarter. Non-performing assets of $28.1 million at September 30, 2024 increased $10.1 million, or 56 percent, over the prior quarter and decreased $14.2 million, or 33 percent, over the prior year third quarter.

    Early stage delinquencies (accruing loans 30-89 days past due) as a percentage of loans at September 30, 2024 were 0.33 percent compared to 0.29 percent for the prior quarter end and 0.09 percent for the prior year third quarter. Early stage delinquencies of $56.2 million at September 30, 2024 increased $6.5 million from the prior quarter and increased $41.0 million from prior year third quarter.

    The current quarter credit loss expense of $8.0 million included $2.8 million of provision for credit losses on loans and $799 thousand of provision for credit losses on unfunded commitments from the acquisition of RMB. Excluding the acquisition of RMB, the current quarter credit loss expense was $4.4 million, including $4.2 million of credit loss expense from loans and $225 thousand of credit loss expense from unfunded loan commitments.

    For the first nine months of the current year, the provision for credit losses of $19.8 million included $8.1 million of provision for credit losses on loans and $1.6 million of provision for credit losses on unfunded loan commitments from the acquisitions of Wheatland and RMB.

    The allowance for credit losses on loans (“ACL”) as a percentage of total loans outstanding at September 30, 2024 was 1.19 percent and remained unchanged from the prior year end and the prior year third quarter. Loan portfolio growth, composition, average loan size, credit quality considerations, economic forecasts and other environmental factors will continue to determine the level of the provision for credit losses for loans. 

    Credit Quality Trends and Provision for Credit Losses on the Loan Portfolio

    (Dollars in thousands) Provision for Credit Losses Loans   Net Charge-Offs   ACL
    as a Percent
    of Loans
      Accruing
    Loans 30-89
    Days Past Due
    as a Percent of
    Loans
      Non-Performing
    Assets to
    Total Subsidiary
    Assets
    Third quarter 2024 $ 6,981   $ 2,766   1.19 %   0.33 %   0.10 %
    Second quarter 2024   5,066     2,890   1.19 %   0.29 %   0.06 %
    First quarter 2024   9,091     3,072   1.19 %   0.37 %   0.09 %
    Fourth quarter 2023   4,181     3,695   1.19 %   0.31 %   0.09 %
    Third quarter 2023   5,095     2,209   1.19 %   0.09 %   0.15 %
    Second quarter 2023   5,254     2,473   1.19 %   0.16 %   0.12 %
    First quarter 2023   6,260     1,939   1.20 %   0.16 %   0.12 %
    Fourth quarter 2022   6,060     1,968   1.20 %   0.14 %   0.12 %
     

    Net charge-offs for the current quarter were $2.8 million compared to $2.9 million in the prior quarter and $2.2 million for the prior year third quarter. Net charge-offs of $2.8 million included $1.9 million in deposit overdraft net charge-offs and $815 thousand of net loan charge-offs.

    Supplemental information regarding credit quality and identification of the Company’s loan portfolio based on regulatory classification is provided in the exhibits at the end of this press release. The regulatory classification of loans is based primarily on collateral type while the Company’s loan segments presented herein are based on the purpose of the loan.

    Liability Summary

                      $ Change from
    (Dollars in thousands) Sep 30,
    2024
      Jun 30,
    2024
      Dec 31,
    2023
      Sep 30,
    2023
      Jun 30,
    2024
      Dec 31,
    2023
      Sep 30,
    2023
    Deposits                          
    Non-interest bearing deposits $ 6,407,728   6,093,430   6,022,980   6,465,353   314,298     384,748     (57,625 )
    NOW and DDA accounts   5,363,476   5,219,838   5,321,257   5,253,367   143,638     42,219     110,109  
    Savings accounts   2,801,077   2,862,034   2,833,887   2,872,362   (60,957 )   (32,810 )   (71,285 )
    Money market deposit accounts   2,854,540   2,858,850   2,831,624   2,994,631   (4,310 )   22,916     (140,091 )
    Certificate accounts   3,284,609   3,064,613   2,915,393   2,742,017   219,996     369,216     542,592  
    Core deposits, total   20,711,430   20,098,765   19,925,141   20,327,730   612,665     786,289     383,700  
    Wholesale deposits   3,334   2,994   4,026   67,434   340     (692 )   (64,100 )
    Deposits, total   20,714,764   20,101,759   19,929,167   20,395,164   613,005     785,597     319,600  
    Repurchase agreements   1,831,501   1,629,504   1,486,850   1,499,696   201,997     344,651     331,805  
    Deposits and repurchase agreements, total   22,546,265   21,731,263   21,416,017   21,894,860   815,002     1,130,248     651,405  
    Federal Home Loan Bank advances   1,800,000   2,350,000       (550,000 )   1,800,000     1,800,000  
    FRB Bank Term Funding       2,740,000   2,740,000       (2,740,000 )   (2,740,000 )
    Other borrowed funds   84,168   88,149   81,695   73,752   (3,981 )   2,473     10,416  
    Subordinated debentures   133,065   133,024   132,943   132,903   41     122     162  
    Other liabilities   397,221   365,459   351,693   347,452   31,762     45,528     49,769  
    Total liabilities $ 24,960,719   24,667,895   24,722,348   25,188,967   292,824     238,371     (228,248 )
     

    Total core deposits of $20.711 billion at September 30, 2024 increased $613 million, or 3 percent, from the prior quarter and increased $786 million, or 4 percent, from the prior year end. Total core deposits organically increased $217 million, or 4 percent annualized, during the current quarter and decreased $227 million, or 1 percent, from the prior year end.

    Total non-interest bearing deposits of $6.408 billion, increased $314 million, or 5 percent, from the prior quarter and increased $385 million, or 6 percent, from the prior year end. Non-interest bearing deposits organically increased $221 million, or 14 percent annualized, during the current quarter and increased $13.6 million, or 23 basis points, from the prior year end. Non-interest bearing deposits represented 31 percent of total deposits at June 30, 2024, compared to 30 percent at December 31, 2023 and 32 percent at September 30, 2023.

    FHLB borrowings of $1.800 billion decreased $550 million, or 23 percent, during the current quarter. Upon maturity in the first quarter of 2024, the Company paid off its $2.740 billion BTFP borrowings with a combination of $2.140 billion in FHLB borrowings and cash.

    Stockholders’ Equity Summary

                      $ Change from
    (Dollars in thousands, except per share data) Sep 30,
    2024
      Jun 30,
    2024
      Dec 31,
    2023
      Sep 30,
    2023
      Jun 30,
    2024
      Dec 31,
    2023
      Sep 30,
    2023
    Common equity $ 3,507,356     3,492,096     3,394,394     3,374,961     15,260     112,962     132,395  
    Accumulated other comprehensive loss   (262,306 )   (354,651 )   (374,113 )   (500,367 )   92,345     111,807     238,061  
    Total stockholders’ equity   3,245,050     3,137,445     3,020,281     2,874,594     107,605     224,769     370,456  
    Goodwill and intangibles, net   (1,106,336 )   (1,066,790 )   (1,017,263 )   (1,019,690 )   (39,546 )   (89,073 )   (86,646 )
    Tangible stockholders’ equity $ 2,138,714     2,070,655     2,003,018     1,854,904     68,059     135,696     283,810  
    Stockholders’ equity to total assets   11.50 %   11.28 %   10.89 %   10.24 %            
    Tangible stockholders’ equity to total tangible assets   7.89 %   7.74 %   7.49 %   6.86 %            
    Book value per common share $ 28.62     27.67     27.24     25.93     0.95   1.38   2.69
    Tangible book value per common share $ 18.86     18.26     18.06     16.73     0.60   0.80   2.13
     

    Tangible stockholders’ equity of $2.139 billion at September 30, 2024 increased $68.1 million, or 3 percent, compared to the prior quarter and was primarily the result of a decrease in unrealized loss on the available-for-sale debt securities which was partially offset by the increase in goodwill and core deposit intangibles associated with the acquisition of RMB. Tangible stockholders’ equity at September 30, 2024 increased $136 million, or 7 percent, compared to the prior year end and was primarily due to $92.4 million of Company common stock issued for the acquisition of Wheatland and the decrease in the unrealized loss on the available-for-sale securities. The increase was partially offset by the increase in goodwill and core deposits associated with the acquisitions of Wheatland and RMB. Tangible book value per common share of $18.86 at the current quarter end increased $0.80 per share, or 4 percent, from the prior year end and increased $2.13 per share, or 13 percent, from the prior year third quarter.

    Cash Dividends
    On September 24, 2024, the Company’s Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.33 per share. The dividend was payable October 17, 2024 to shareholders of record on October 8, 2024. The dividend was the Company’s 158th consecutive regular dividend. Future cash dividends will depend on a variety of factors, including net income, capital, asset quality, general economic conditions and regulatory considerations.

    Operating Results for Three Months Ended September 30, 2024 
    Compared to June 30, 2024, March 31, 2024 and September 30, 2023
     
    Income Summary
      Three Months ended   $ Change from
    (Dollars in thousands) Sep 30,
    2024
      Jun 30,
    2024
      Mar 31,
    2024
      Sep 30,
    2023
      Jun 30,
    2024
      Mar 31,
    2024
      Sep 30,
    2023
    Net interest income                          
    Interest income $ 289,578     273,834     279,402     264,906     15,744   10,176     24,672
    Interest expense   109,347     107,356     112,922     97,852     1,991   (3,575 )   11,495
    Total net interest income   180,231     166,478     166,480     167,054     13,753   13,751     13,177
    Non-interest income                          
    Service charges and other fees   20,587     19,422     18,563     19,304     1,165   2,024     1,283
    Miscellaneous loan fees and charges   4,970     4,821     4,362     4,322     149   608     648
    Gain on sale of loans   4,898     4,669     3,362     4,046     229   1,536     852
    Gain (loss) on sale of securities   26     (12 )   16     (65 )   38   10     91
    Other income   4,223     3,304     3,686     2,633     919   537     1,590
    Total non-interest income   34,704     32,204     29,989     30,240     2,500   4,715     4,464
    Total income $ 214,935     198,682     196,469     197,294     16,253   18,466     17,641
    Net interest margin (tax-equivalent)   2.83 %   2.68 %   2.59 %   2.58 %            
     

    Net Interest Income
    The current quarter interest income of $290 million increased $15.7 million, or 6 percent, over the prior quarter and increased $24.7 million, or 9 percent, over the prior year third quarter, with both increases being primarily due to the increase in the loan yields and the increase in average balances of the loan portfolio. The loan yield of 5.69 percent in the current quarter increased 11 basis points from the prior quarter loan yield of 5.58 percent and increased 42 basis points from the prior year third quarter loan yield of 5.27 percent.

    The current quarter interest expense of $109 million increased $2.0 million, or 2 percent, over the prior quarter and was primarily attributable to the increase in average deposit balances. The current quarter interest expense increased $11.5 million, or 12 percent, over the prior year third quarter and was primarily the result of an increase in rates on deposits and borrowings. Core deposit cost (including non-interest bearing deposits) was 1.37 percent for the current quarter compared to 1.36 percent in the prior quarter and 1.03 percent for the prior year third quarter. The total cost of funding (including non-interest bearing deposits) of 1.79 percent in the current quarter decreased 1 basis point from the prior quarter. The current quarter cost of funds increased 21 basis points from the prior year third quarter which was primarily the result of the increased deposit rates.

    The net interest margin as a percentage of earning assets, on a tax-equivalent basis, for the current quarter was 2.83 percent, an increase of 15 basis points from the prior quarter net interest margin of 2.68 percent and was primarily driven by an increase in loan yields. The net interest margin as a percentage of earning assets, on a tax-equivalent basis, for the current quarter was an increase of 25 basis points from the prior year third quarter net interest margin of 2.58 percent and was primarily driven by an increase in loan yields which more than offset the total cost of funding. Core net interest margin excludes the impact from discount accretion and non-accrual interest. Excluding the 4 basis points from discount accretion, the core net interest margin was 2.79 percent in the current quarter compared to 2.63 percent in the prior quarter and 2.55 in the prior year third quarter. “The growth in the loan portfolio at higher yields was funded primarily by the remix of lower yield cash flow from the securities portfolio,” said Ron Copher, Chief Financial Officer. “In addition, the growth in non-interest bearing deposits and the reduction in wholesale funding contributed to the improvement in the current quarter net interest margin.”

    Non-interest Income
    Non-interest income for the current quarter totaled $34.7 million, which was an increase of $2.5 million, or 8 percent, over the prior quarter and an increase of $4.5 million, or 15 percent, over the prior year third quarter. Service charges and other fees of $20.6 million for the current quarter increased $1.2 million, or 6 percent, compared to the prior quarter and increased $1.3 million, or 7 percent, compared to the prior year third quarter. Gain on the sale of residential loans of $4.9 million for the current quarter increased $229 thousand, or 5 percent, compared to the prior quarter and increased $852 thousand, or 21 percent, from the prior year third quarter. Other income of $4.2 million increased $919 thousand, or 28 percent, over the prior quarter and increased $1.6 million, or 60 percent, over the prior year third quarter, with both increases being driven by a $1.2 million gain on the sale of repossessed property during the current quarter.

    Non-interest Expense Summary

      Three Months ended   $ Change from
    (Dollars in thousands) Sep 30,
    2024
      Jun 30,
    2024
      Mar 31,
    2024
      Sep 30,
    2023
      Jun 30,
    2024
      Mar 31,
    2024
      Sep 30,
    2023
    Compensation and employee benefits $ 85,083   84,434   85,789   77,387   649     (706 )   7,696  
    Occupancy and equipment   11,989   11,594   11,883   10,553   395     106     1,436  
    Advertising and promotions   4,062   4,362   3,983   4,052   (300 )   79     10  
    Data processing   9,196   9,387   9,159   8,730   (191 )   37     466  
    Other real estate owned and foreclosed assets   13   149   25   15   (136 )   (12 )   (2 )
    Regulatory assessments and insurance   5,150   5,393   7,761   6,060   (243 )   (2,611 )   (910 )
    Intangibles amortization   3,367   3,017   2,760   2,428   350     607     939  
    Other expenses   25,848   22,616   30,483   20,351   3,232     (4,635 )   5,497  
    Total non-interest expense $ 144,708   140,952   151,843   129,576   3,756     (7,135 )   15,132  
     

    Total non-interest expense of $145 million for the current quarter increased $3.8 million, or 3 percent, over the prior quarter and increased $15.1 million, or 12 percent, over the prior year third quarter. Compensation and employee benefits increased $7.7 million, or 10 percent, from the prior year third quarter and was driven by annual salary increases, increased performance-related compensation and increases from the acquisitions of Wheatland and RMB.

    Other expenses of $25.8 million increased $3.2 million, or 14 percent, from the prior quarter, which was attributable to several miscellaneous category increases including an increase of $1.2 million in outside consulting services. In addition, the current quarter other expenses included $586 thousand of gains from the sale of former branch facilities and disposal of fixed assets compared to $1.5 million in the prior quarter. Other expenses increased $5.5 million, or 27 percent, from the prior year third quarter as a result of several miscellaneous category increases including an increase of $2.7 million in outside consulting services and an increase of $1.6 million in acquisition-related expenses. Acquisition-related expense was $1.9 million in the current quarter compared to $1.8 million in the prior quarter and $279 thousand in the prior year third quarter.

    Federal and State Income Tax Expense
    Tax expense during the third quarter of 2024 was $11.2 million, an increase of $1.7 million, or 18 percent, compared to the prior quarter and a decrease of $567 thousand, or 5 percent, from the prior year third quarter. The effective tax rate in the current quarter was 17.9 percent compared to 17.5 percent in the prior quarter and 18.3 percent in the prior year third quarter.

    Efficiency Ratio
    The efficiency ratio was 64.92 percent in the current quarter compared to 67.97 percent in the prior quarter and 63.31 percent in the prior year third quarter. The decrease from the prior quarter was principally driven by the increase in net interest income that more than offset the increase in non-interest expense.

    Operating Results for Nine Months Ended September 30, 2024
    Compared to September 30, 2023
     
    Income Summary
      Nine months ended    
    (Dollars in thousands) Sep 30,
    2024
      Sep 30,
    2023
      $ Change   % Change
    Net interest income              
    Interest income $ 842,814     $ 744,159     $ 98,655     13  %
    Interest expense   329,625       218,933       110,692     51  %
    Total net interest income   513,189       525,226       (12,037 )   (2 )%
    Non-interest income              
    Service charges and other fees   58,572       56,042       2,530     5  %
    Miscellaneous loan fees and charges   14,153       12,451       1,702     14  %
    Gain on sale of loans   12,929       9,974       2,955     30  %
    Gain (loss) on sale of securities   30       (202 )     232     (115  )%
    Other income   11,213       8,949       2,264     25  %
    Total non-interest income   96,897       87,214       9,683     11  %
    Total Income $ 610,086     $ 612,440     $ (2,354 )    %
    Net interest margin (tax-equivalent)   2.70 %     2.79 %        
     

    Net Interest Income
    Net-interest income of $513 million for the first nine months of 2024 decreased $12.0 million, or 2 percent, over 2023 and was primarily driven by increased interest expense which outpaced the increase in interest income. Interest income of $843 million for 2024 increased $98.7 million, or 13 percent, from the prior year and was primarily attributable to the increase in the loan portfolio and an increase in loan yields. The loan yield was 5.58 percent during the first nine months of 2024, an increase of 44 basis points from the prior year first nine months loan yield of 5.14 percent.

    Interest expense of $330 million for the first nine months of 2024 increased $111 million, or 51 percent, over the same period in the prior year and was primarily the result of higher interest rates on deposits. Core deposit cost (including non-interest bearing deposits) was 1.36 percent for the first nine months of 2024 compared to 0.62 percent for the same period in the prior year. The total funding cost (including non-interest bearing deposits) for the first nine months of 2024 was 1.81 percent, which was an increase of 59 basis points over the first nine months of the prior year funding cost of 1.22 percent.

    The net interest margin as a percentage of earning assets, on a tax-equivalent basis, during the first nine months of 2024 was 2.70 percent, a 9 basis points decrease from the net interest margin of 2.79 percent for the first nine months of the prior year. Excluding the 4 basis points from discount accretion and the 1 basis point from non-accrual interest, the core net interest margin was 2.65 percent in the first nine months of the current year compared to 2.77 percent in the prior year first nine months.

    Non-interest Income  
    Non-interest income of $96.9 million for the first nine months of 2024 increased $9.7 million, or 11 percent, over the same period last year. Gain on sale of residential loans of $12.9 million for the first nine months of 2024 increased by $3.0 million, or 30 percent, over the first nine months of the prior year. Other income of $11.2 million for the first nine months of 2024 increased $2.3 million, or 25 percent, over the same period last year and was primarily driven by a $1.2 million gain on the sale of repossessed property during the current quarter.

    Non-interest Expense Summary

      Nine months ended        
    (Dollars in thousands) Sep 30,
    2024
      Sep 30,
    2023
      $ Change   % Change
    Compensation and employee benefits $ 255,306   $ 237,628   $ 17,678   7 %
    Occupancy and equipment   35,466     33,045     2,421   7 %
    Advertising and promotions   12,407     12,020     387   3 %
    Data processing   27,742     25,241     2,501   10 %
    Other real estate owned and foreclosed assets   187     41     146   356 %
    Regulatory assessments and insurance   18,304     16,277     2,027   12 %
    Core deposit intangibles amortization   9,144     7,304     1,840   25 %
    Other expenses   78,947     63,606     15,341   24 %
    Total non-interest expense $ 437,503   $ 395,162   $ 42,341   11 %
     

    Total non-interest expense of $438 million for the first nine months of 2024 increased $42.3 million, or 11 percent, over the same period in the prior year. Compensation and employee benefits expense of $255 million in the first nine months of 2024 increased $17.7 million, or 7 percent, over the same period in the prior year and was driven by annual salary increases and the acquisitions of Wheatland and RMB. Data processing expenses of $27.7 million for the first nine months of 2024 increased $2.5 million, or 10 percent, from the same period in the prior year. Regulatory assessments and insurance expense of $18.3 million for the first nine months of 2024 increased $2.0 million, or 12 percent, over the same period in the prior year which was principally due to the accrual adjustment for the FDIC special assessment. Other expenses of $78.9 million for the first nine months of 2024 increased $15.3 million, or 24 percent, from the first nine months of the prior year and was primarily driven by an increase of $8.6 million of acquisition-related expenses, which was partially offset by gains of $3.1 million from the sale of former branch facilities and disposal of fixed assets.

    Provision for Credit Losses
    The provision for credit loss expense was $19.8 million for the first nine months of 2024, an increase of $8.0 million, or 68 percent, over the same period in the prior year and was primarily attributable to $9.7 million from the acquisitions of Wheatland and RMB. Net charge-offs for the first nine months of 2024 were $8.7 million compared to $6.6 million in the first nine months of 2023.

    Federal and State Income Tax Expense
    Tax expense of $24.4 million for the first nine months of 2024 decreased $12.5 million, or 34 percent, over the prior year. The effective tax rate for the first nine months of 2024 was 16.0 percent compared to 17.9 percent for the same period in the prior year. The decrease in tax expense and the resulting effective tax rate was the result of a combination of increased federal tax credits and a decrease in the pre-tax income.

    Efficiency Ratio
    The efficiency ratio was 68.98 percent for the first nine months of 2024 compared to 62.10 percent for the same period of 2023. The increase from the prior year was primarily attributable to the increase in interest expense in the current year that outpaced the increase in interest income and increased non-interest expense.

    Forward-Looking Statements  
    This news release may contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements about the Company’s plans, objectives, expectations and intentions that are not historical facts, and other statements identified by words such as “expects,” “anticipates,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “should,” “projects,” “seeks,” “estimates” or other comparable words or phrases of a future or forward-looking nature. These forward-looking statements are based on current beliefs and expectations of management and are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies, many of which are beyond the Company’s control. In addition, these forward-looking statements are based on assumptions that are subject to change. The following factors, among others, could cause actual results to differ materially from the anticipated results (express or implied) or other expectations in the forward-looking statements, including those made in this news release:

    • risks associated with lending and potential adverse changes in the credit quality of the Company’s loan portfolio;
    • changes in monetary and fiscal policies, including interest rate policies of the Federal Reserve Board, which could adversely affect the Company’s net interest income and margin, the fair value of its financial instruments, profitability, and stockholders’ equity;
    • legislative or regulatory changes, including increased FDIC insurance rates and assessments, changes in the review and regulation of bank mergers, or increased banking and consumer protection regulations, that may adversely affect the Company’s business and strategies;
    • risks related to overall economic conditions, including the impact on the economy of an uncertain interest rate environment, inflationary pressures, and geopolitical instability, including the wars in Ukraine and the Middle East;
    • risks associated with the Company’s ability to negotiate, complete, and successfully integrate any future acquisitions;
    • costs or difficulties related to the completion and integration of pending or future acquisitions;
    • impairment of the goodwill recorded by the Company in connection with acquisitions, which may have an adverse impact on earnings and capital;
    • reduction in demand for banking products and services, whether as a result of changes in customer behavior, economic conditions, banking environment, or competition;
    • deterioration of the reputation of banks and the financial services industry, which could adversely affect the Company’s ability to obtain and maintain customers;
    • changes in the competitive landscape, including as may result from new market entrants or further consolidation in the financial services industry, resulting in the creation of larger competitors with greater financial resources;
    • risks presented by public stock market volatility, which could adversely affect the market price of the Company’s common stock and the ability to raise additional capital or grow through acquisitions;
    • risks associated with dependence on the Chief Executive Officer, the senior management team and the Presidents of Glacier Bank’s divisions;
    • material failure, potential interruption or breach in security of the Company’s systems or changes in technological which could expose the Company to cybersecurity risks, fraud, system failures, or direct liabilities;
    • risks related to natural disasters, including droughts, fires, floods, earthquakes, pandemics, and other unexpected events;
    • success in managing risks involved in the foregoing; and
    • effects of any reputational damage to the Company resulting from any of the foregoing.

    The Company does not undertake any obligation to publicly correct or update any forward-looking statement if it later becomes aware that actual results are likely to differ materially from those expressed in such forward-looking statement.

    Conference Call Information
    A conference call for investors is scheduled for 11:00 a.m. Eastern Time on Friday, October 25, 2024. Please note that our conference call host no longer offers a general dial-in number. Investors who would like to join the call may now register by following this link to obtain dial-in instructions: https://register.vevent.com/register/BI32ee03ea65c34bd794e0027768d383d4. To participate via the webcast, log on to: https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/9bh88vfv.

    About Glacier Bancorp, Inc.
    Glacier Bancorp, Inc. (NYSE: GBCI), a member of the Russell 2000® and the S&P MidCap 400® indices, is the parent company for Glacier Bank and its Bank divisions located across its eight state Western U.S. footprint: Altabank (American Fork, UT), Bank of the San Juans (Durango, CO), Citizens Community Bank (Pocatello, ID), Collegiate Peaks Bank (Buena Vista, CO), First Bank of Montana (Lewistown, MT), First Bank of Wyoming (Powell, WY), First Community Bank Utah (Layton, UT), First Security Bank (Bozeman, MT), First Security Bank of Missoula (Missoula, MT), First State Bank (Wheatland, WY), Glacier Bank (Kalispell, MT), Heritage Bank of Nevada (Reno, NV), Mountain West Bank (Coeur d’Alene, ID), The Foothills Bank (Yuma, AZ), Valley Bank of Helena (Helena, MT), Western Security Bank (Billings, MT), and Wheatland Bank (Spokane, WA).

    Glacier Bancorp, Inc.
    Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition
     
    (Dollars in thousands, except per share data) Sep 30,
    2024
      Jun 30,
    2024
      Dec 31,
    2023
      Sep 30,
    2023
    Assets              
    Cash on hand and in banks $ 342,105     271,107     246,525     264,067  
    Interest bearing cash deposits   645,728     529,672     1,107,817     1,408,027  
    Cash and cash equivalents   987,833     800,779     1,354,342     1,672,094  
    Debt securities, available-for-sale   4,436,578     4,499,541     4,785,719     4,741,738  
    Debt securities, held-to-maturity   3,348,698     3,400,403     3,502,411     3,553,805  
    Total debt securities   7,785,276     7,899,944     8,288,130     8,295,543  
    Loans held for sale, at fair value   46,126     39,745     15,691     29,027  
    Loans receivable   17,181,187     16,851,991     16,198,082     16,135,046  
    Allowance for credit losses   (205,170 )   (200,955 )   (192,757 )   (192,271 )
    Loans receivable, net   16,976,017     16,651,036     16,005,325     15,942,775  
    Premises and equipment, net   466,977     451,515     421,791     415,343  
    Other real estate owned and foreclosed assets   633     630     1,503     48  
    Accrued interest receivable   114,121     102,279     94,526     104,476  
    Deferred tax asset   125,432     155,834     159,070     203,745  
    Intangibles, net   52,780     43,028     31,870     34,297  
    Goodwill   1,053,556     1,023,762     985,393     985,393  
    Non-marketable equity securities   98,285     121,810     12,755     11,330  
    Bank-owned life insurance   188,971     187,793     171,101     170,175  
    Other assets   309,762     327,185     201,132     199,315  
    Total assets $ 28,205,769     27,805,340     27,742,629     28,063,561  
    Liabilities              
    Non-interest bearing deposits $ 6,407,728     6,093,430     6,022,980     6,465,353  
    Interest bearing deposits   14,307,036     14,008,329     13,906,187     13,929,811  
    Securities sold under agreements to repurchase   1,831,501     1,629,504     1,486,850     1,499,696  
    FHLB advances   1,800,000     2,350,000          
    FRB Bank Term Funding           2,740,000     2,740,000  
    Other borrowed funds   84,168     88,149     81,695     73,752  
    Subordinated debentures   133,065     133,024     132,943     132,903  
    Accrued interest payable   35,382     31,000     125,907     91,874  
    Other liabilities   361,839     334,459     225,786     255,578  
    Total liabilities   24,960,719     24,667,895     24,722,348     25,188,967  
    Commitments and Contingent Liabilities                
    Stockholders’ Equity              
    Preferred shares, $0.01 par value per share, 1,000,000 shares authorized, none issued or outstanding                
    Common stock, $0.01 par value per share, 234,000,000 shares authorized   1,134     1,134     1,109     1,109  
    Paid-in capital   2,447,200     2,445,479     2,350,104     2,348,305  
    Retained earnings – substantially restricted   1,059,022     1,045,483     1,043,181     1,025,547  
    Accumulated other comprehensive loss   (262,306 )   (354,651 )   (374,113 )   (500,367 )
    Total stockholders’ equity   3,245,050     3,137,445     3,020,281     2,874,594  
    Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity $ 28,205,769     27,805,340     27,742,629     28,063,561  
    Glacier Bancorp, Inc.
    Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations
     
      Three Months ended   Nine months ended
    (Dollars in thousands, except per share data) Sep 30,
    2024
      Jun 30,
    2024
      Mar 31,
    2024
      Sep 30,
    2023
      Sep 30,
    2024
      Sep 30,
    2023
    Interest Income                      
    Investment securities $ 46,371   42,165     56,218   53,397     144,754   144,697  
    Residential real estate loans   23,118   21,754     20,764   18,594     65,636   51,508  
    Commercial loans   196,901   188,326     181,472   173,437     566,699   493,706  
    Consumer and other loans   23,188   21,589     20,948   19,478     65,725   54,248  
    Total interest income   289,578   273,834     279,402   264,906     842,814   744,159  
    Interest Expense                      
    Deposits   70,607   67,852     67,196   54,697     205,655   98,942  
    Securities sold under agreements to
    repurchase
      14,737   13,566     12,598   10,972     40,901   24,185  
    Federal Home Loan Bank advances   22,344   24,179     4,249       50,772   26,910  
    FRB Bank Term Funding         27,097   30,229     27,097   63,160  
    Other borrowed funds   252   353     344   489     949   1,428  
    Subordinated debentures   1,407   1,406     1,438   1,465     4,251   4,308  
    Total interest expense   109,347   107,356     112,922   97,852     329,625   218,933  
    Net Interest Income   180,231   166,478     166,480   167,054     513,189   525,226  
    Provision for credit losses   8,005   3,518     8,249   3,539     19,772   11,782  
    Net interest income after provision for credit losses   172,226   162,960     158,231   163,515     493,417   513,444  
    Non-Interest Income                      
    Service charges and other fees   20,587   19,422     18,563   19,304     58,572   56,042  
    Miscellaneous loan fees and charges   4,970   4,821     4,362   4,322     14,153   12,451  
    Gain on sale of loans   4,898   4,669     3,362   4,046     12,929   9,974  
    Gain (loss) on sale of securities   26   (12 )   16   (65 )   30   (202 )
    Other income   4,223   3,304     3,686   2,633     11,213   8,949  
    Total non-interest income   34,704   32,204     29,989   30,240     96,897   87,214  
    Non-Interest Expense                      
    Compensation and employee benefits   85,083   84,434     85,789   77,387     255,306   237,628  
    Occupancy and equipment   11,989   11,594     11,883   10,553     35,466   33,045  
    Advertising and promotions   4,062   4,362     3,983   4,052     12,407   12,020  
    Data processing   9,196   9,387     9,159   8,730     27,742   25,241  
    Other real estate owned and foreclosed assets   13   149     25   15     187   41  
    Regulatory assessments and insurance   5,150   5,393     7,761   6,060     18,304   16,277  
    Intangibles amortization   3,367   3,017     2,760   2,428     9,144   7,304  
    Other expenses   25,848   22,616     30,483   20,351     78,947   63,606  
    Total non-interest expense   144,708   140,952     151,843   129,576     437,503   395,162  
    Income Before Income Taxes   62,222   54,212     36,377   64,179     152,811   205,496  
    Federal and state income tax expense   11,167   9,504     3,750   11,734     24,421   36,885  
    Net Income $ 51,055   44,708     32,627   52,445     128,390   168,611  
    Glacier Bancorp, Inc.
    Average Balance Sheets
     
      Three Months ended
      September 30, 2024   June 30, 2024
    (Dollars in thousands) Average
    Balance
      Interest &
    Dividends
      Average
    Yield/
    Rate
      Average
    Balance
      Interest &
    Dividends
      Average
    Yield/
    Rate
    Assets                      
    Residential real estate loans $ 1,850,066   $ 23,118   5.00 %   $ 1,796,787   $ 21,754   4.84 %
    Commercial loans 1   13,957,304     198,556   5.66 %     13,740,455     189,939   5.56 %
    Consumer and other loans   1,324,142     23,188   6.97 %     1,290,587     21,589   6.73 %
    Total loans 2   17,131,512     244,862   5.69 %     16,827,829     233,282   5.58 %
    Tax-exempt debt securities 3   1,660,643     14,710   3.54 %     1,707,269     15,111   3.54 %
    Taxable debt securities 4, 5   7,073,967     34,001   1.92 %     7,042,885     29,461   1.67 %
    Total earning assets   25,866,122     293,573   4.52 %     25,577,983     277,854   4.37 %
    Goodwill and intangibles   1,092,632             1,068,250        
    Non-earning assets   836,878             754,491        
    Total assets $ 27,795,632           $ 27,400,724        
    Liabilities                      
    Non-interest bearing deposits $ 6,237,166   $   %   $ 6,026,709   $   %
    NOW and DDA accounts   5,314,459     16,221   1.21 %     5,221,883     15,728   1.21 %
    Savings accounts   2,829,203     5,699   0.80 %     2,914,538     6,014   0.83 %
    Money market deposit accounts   2,887,173     15,048   2.07 %     2,904,438     14,467   2.00 %
    Certificate accounts   3,211,842     33,597   4.16 %     3,037,638     31,593   4.18 %
    Total core deposits   20,479,843     70,565   1.37 %     20,105,206     67,802   1.36 %
    Wholesale deposits 6   3,122     42   5.47 %     3,726     50   5.50 %
    Repurchase agreements   1,723,553     14,738   3.40 %     1,597,887     13,566   3.41 %
    FHLB advances   1,828,533     22,344   4.78 %     2,007,747     24,179   4.76 %
    Subordinated debentures and other borrowed funds   219,472     1,658   3.01 %     224,778     1,759   3.15 %
    Total funding liabilities   24,254,523     109,347   1.79 %     23,939,344     107,356   1.80 %
    Other liabilities   336,906             344,105        
    Total liabilities   24,591,429             24,283,449        
    Stockholders’ Equity                      
    Stockholders’ equity   3,204,203             3,117,275        
    Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity $ 27,795,632           $ 27,400,724        
    Net interest income (tax-equivalent)     $ 184,226           $ 170,498    
    Net interest spread (tax-equivalent)         2.73 %           2.57 %
    Net interest margin (tax-equivalent)         2.83 %           2.68 %

    ______________________________

    1 Includes tax effect of $1.7 million and $1.6 million on tax-exempt municipal loan and lease income for the three months ended September 30, 2024 and June 30, 2024, respectively.
    2 Total loans are gross of the allowance for credit losses, net of unearned income and include loans held for sale. Non-accrual loans were included in the average volume for the entire period.
    3 Includes tax effect of $2.1 million and $2.2 million on tax-exempt debt securities income for the three months ended September 30, 2024 and June 30, 2024, respectively.
    4 Includes interest income of $4.8 million and $1.9 million on average interest-bearing cash balances of $357.0 million and $0.14 billion for the three months ended September 30, 2024 and June 30, 2024, respectively.
    5 Includes tax effect of $203 thousand and $211 thousand on federal income tax credits for the three months ended September 30, 2024 and June 30, 2024, respectively.
    6 Wholesale deposits include brokered deposits classified as NOW, DDA, money market deposit and certificate accounts with contractual maturities.

     

    Glacier Bancorp, Inc.
    Average Balance Sheets (continued)
     
      Three Months ended
      September 30, 2024   September 30, 2023
    (Dollars in thousands) Average
    Balance
      Interest &
    Dividends
      Average
    Yield/
    Rate
      Average
    Balance
      Interest &
    Dividends
      Average
    Yield/
    Rate
    Assets                      
    Residential real estate loans $ 1,850,066   $ 23,118   5.00 %   $ 1,649,947   $ 18,594   4.51 %
    Commercial loans 1   13,957,304     198,556   5.66 %     13,120,479     174,822   5.29 %
    Consumer and other loans   1,324,142     23,188   6.97 %     1,263,775     19,478   6.11 %
    Total loans 2   17,131,512     244,862   5.69 %     16,034,201     212,894   5.27 %
    Tax-exempt debt securities 3   1,660,643     14,710   3.54 %     1,732,227     14,486   3.34 %
    Taxable debt securities 4, 5   7,073,967     34,001   1.92 %     8,485,157     41,052   1.94 %
    Total earning assets   25,866,122     293,573   4.52 %     26,251,585     268,432   4.06 %
    Goodwill and intangibles   1,092,632             1,020,868        
    Non-earning assets   836,878             528,145        
    Total assets $ 27,795,632           $ 27,800,598        
    Liabilities                      
    Non-interest bearing deposits $ 6,237,166   $   %   $ 6,461,350   $   %
    NOW and DDA accounts   5,314,459     16,221   1.21 %     5,231,741     12,906   0.98 %
    Savings accounts   2,829,203     5,699   0.80 %     2,840,620     3,492   0.49 %
    Money market deposit accounts   2,887,173     15,048   2.07 %     3,039,177     12,646   1.65 %
    Certificate accounts   3,211,842     33,597   4.16 %     2,462,266     23,151   3.73 %
    Total core deposits   20,479,843     70,565   1.37 %     20,035,154     52,195   1.03 %
    Wholesale deposits 6   3,122     42   5.47 %     188,523     2,502   5.27 %
    Repurchase agreements   1,723,553     14,738   3.40 %     1,401,765     10,972   3.11 %
    FHLB advances   1,828,533     22,344   4.78 %           %
    FRB Bank Term Funding         %     2,740,000     30,229   4.38 %
    Subordinated debentures and other borrowed funds   219,472     1,658   3.01 %     208,336     1,954   3.72 %
    Total funding liabilities   24,254,523     109,347   1.79 %     24,573,778     97,852   1.58 %
    Other liabilities   336,906             302,564        
    Total liabilities   24,591,429             24,876,342        
    Stockholders’ Equity                      
    Stockholders’ equity   3,204,203             2,924,256        
    Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity $ 27,795,632           $ 27,800,598        
    Net interest income (tax-equivalent)     $ 184,226           $ 170,580    
    Net interest spread (tax-equivalent)         2.73 %           2.48 %
    Net interest margin (tax-equivalent)         2.83 %           2.58 %

    ______________________________

    1 Includes tax effect of $1.7 million and $1.4 million on tax-exempt municipal loan and lease income for the three months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023, respectively.
    2 Total loans are gross of the allowance for credit losses, net of unearned income and include loans held for sale. Non-accrual loans were included in the average volume for the entire period.
    3 Includes tax effect of $2.1 million and $1.9 million on tax-exempt debt securities income for the three months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023, respectively.
    4 Includes interest income of $4.8 million and $15.1 million on average interest-bearing cash balances of $357.0 million and $1,106.1 million for the three months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023, respectively.
    5 Includes tax effect of $203 thousand and $215 thousand on federal income tax credits for the three months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023, respectively.
    6 Wholesale deposits include brokered deposits classified as NOW, DDA, money market deposit and certificate accounts with contractual maturities.
    Glacier Bancorp, Inc.
    Average Balance Sheets (continued)
     
      Nine Months ended
      September 30, 2024   September 30, 2023
    (Dollars in thousands) Average
    Balance
      Interest &
    Dividends
      Average
    Yield/
    Rate
      Average
    Balance
      Interest &
    Dividends
      Average
    Yield/
    Rate
    Assets                      
    Residential real estate loans $ 1,798,202   $ 65,636   4.87 %   $ 1,570,911   $ 51,508   4.37 %
    Commercial loans 1   13,737,866     571,540   5.56 %     12,910,691     498,152   5.16 %
    Consumer and other loans   1,299,463     65,725   6.76 %     1,236,158     54,248   5.87 %
    Total loans 2   16,835,531     702,901   5.58 %     15,717,760     603,908   5.14 %
    Tax-exempt debt securities 3   1,695,965     44,978   3.54 %     1,745,764     44,978   3.44 %
    Taxable debt securities 4, 5   7,429,971     106,939   1.92 %     8,240,041     107,338   1.74 %
    Total earning assets   25,961,467     854,818   4.40 %     25,703,565     756,224   3.93 %
    Goodwill and intangibles   1,071,024             1,023,274        
    Non-earning assets   734,681             510,332        
    Total assets $ 27,767,172           $ 27,237,171        
    Liabilities                      
    Non-interest bearing deposits $ 6,077,392   $   %   $ 6,770,242   $   %
    NOW and DDA accounts   5,270,842     47,866   1.21 %     5,140,668     22,606   0.59 %
    Savings accounts   2,881,273     17,368   0.81 %     2,930,420     5,070   0.23 %
    Money market deposit accounts   2,913,206     43,907   2.01 %     3,253,138     28,654   1.18 %
    Certificate accounts   3,083,866     96,365   4.17 %     1,638,163     34,613   2.82 %
    Total core deposits   20,226,579     205,506   1.36 %     19,732,631     90,943   0.62 %
    Wholesale deposits 6   3,603     149   5.49 %     213,465     7,999   5.01 %
    Repurchase agreements   1,612,021     40,901   3.39 %     1,238,139     24,185   2.61 %
    FHLB advances   1,397,258     50,772   4.77 %     738,004     26,910   4.81 %
    FRB Bank Term Funding   824,672     27,097   4.39 %     1,929,322     63,160   4.38 %
    Subordinated debentures and other borrowed funds   220,835     5,200   3.15 %     208,891     5,737   3.67 %
    Total funding liabilities   24,284,968     329,625   1.81 %     24,060,452     218,934   1.22 %
    Other liabilities   345,822             256,022        
    Total liabilities   24,630,790             24,316,474        
    Stockholders’ Equity                      
    Stockholders’ equity   3,136,382             2,920,697        
    Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity $ 27,767,172           $ 27,237,171        
    Net interest income (tax-equivalent)     $ 525,193           $ 537,290    
    Net interest spread (tax-equivalent)         2.59 %           2.71 %
    Net interest margin (tax-equivalent)         2.70 %           2.79 %

    ______________________________

    1 Includes tax effect of $4.8 million and $4.4 million on tax-exempt municipal loan and lease income for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023, respectively.
    2 Total loans are gross of the allowance for credit losses, net of unearned income and include loans held for sale. Non-accrual loans were included in the average volume for the entire period.
    3 Includes tax effect of $6.5 million and $7.0 million on tax-exempt debt securities income for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023, respectively.
    4 Includes interest income of $17.2 million and $24.5 million on average interest-bearing cash balances of $631.7 million and $624.0 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023, respectively.
    5 Includes tax effect of $629 thousand and $644 thousand on federal income tax credits for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023, respectively.
    6 Wholesale deposits include brokered deposits classified as NOW, DDA, money market deposit and certificate accounts with contractual maturities.
    Glacier Bancorp, Inc.
    Loan Portfolio by Regulatory Classification
     
      Loans Receivable, by Loan Type   % Change from
    (Dollars in thousands) Sep 30,
    2024
      Jun 30,
    2024
      Dec 31,
    2023
      Sep 30,
    2023
      Jun 30,
    2024
      Dec 31,
    2023
      Sep 30,
    2023
    Custom and owner occupied construction $ 235,915     $ 233,978     $ 290,572     $ 306,106     %   (19) %   (23) %
    Pre-sold and spec construction   203,610       198,219       236,596       287,048     %   (14) %   (29) %
    Total residential construction   439,525       432,197       527,168       593,154     %   (17) %   (26) %
    Land development   205,704       209,794       232,966       234,995     (2) %   (12) %   (12) %
    Consumer land or lots   189,705       190,781       187,545       184,685     (1) %   %   %
    Unimproved land   109,237       108,763       87,739       87,089     —  %   25  %   25  %
    Developed lots for operative builders   67,140       57,140       56,142       62,485     18  %   20  %   %
    Commercial lots   98,644       99,036       87,185       84,194     —  %   13  %   17  %
    Other construction   689,638       810,536       900,547       982,384     (15) %   (23) %   (30) %
    Total land, lot, and other construction   1,360,068       1,476,050       1,552,124       1,635,832     (8) %   (12) %   (17) %
    Owner occupied   3,121,900       3,087,814       3,035,768       2,976,821     %   %   %
    Non-owner occupied   4,001,430       3,941,786       3,742,916       3,765,266     %   %   %
    Total commercial real estate   7,123,330       7,029,600       6,778,684       6,742,087     %   %   %
    Commercial and industrial   1,387,538       1,400,896       1,363,479       1,363,198     (1) %   %   %
    Agriculture   1,047,320       962,384       772,458       785,208     %   36  %   33  %
    1st lien   2,462,885       2,353,912       2,127,989       2,054,497     %   16  %   20  %
    Junior lien   77,029       56,049       47,230       47,490     37  %   63  %   62  %
    Total 1-4 family   2,539,914       2,409,961       2,175,219       2,101,987     %   17  %   21  %
    Multifamily residential   921,138       1,027,962       796,538       714,822     (10) %   16  %   29  %
    Home equity lines of credit   1,004,300       974,000       979,891       950,204     %   %   %
    Other consumer   221,517       220,755       229,154       233,980     —  %   (3) %   (5) %
    Total consumer   1,225,817       1,194,755       1,209,045       1,184,184     %   %   %
    States and political subdivisions   993,871       777,426       834,947       833,618     28  %   19  %   19  %
    Other   188,792       180,505       204,111       209,983     %   (8) %   (10) %
    Total loans receivable, including
    loans held for sale
      17,227,313       16,891,736       16,213,773       16,164,073     %   %   %
    Less loans held for sale 1   (46,126 )     (39,745 )     (15,691 )     (29,027 )   16  %   194  %   59  %
    Total loans receivable $ 17,181,187     $ 16,851,991     $ 16,198,082     $ 16,135,046     %   %   %

    ______________________________

    1 Loans held for sale are primarily 1st lien 1-4 family loans.
    Glacier Bancorp, Inc.
    Credit Quality Summary by Regulatory Classification
     
     

    Non-performing Assets, by Loan Type

      Non-
    Accrual
    Loans
      Accruing
    Loans 90
    Days
    or More Past
    Due
      Other real estate owned and foreclosed assets
    (Dollars in thousands) Sep 30,
    2024
      Jun 30,
    2024
      Dec 31,
    2023
      Sep 30,
    2023
      Sep 30,
    2024
      Sep 30,
    2024
      Sep 30,
    2024
    Custom and owner occupied construction $ 202   206   214   219   202    
    Pre-sold and spec construction   3,705   2,908   763   763   2,942   763  
    Total residential construction   3,907   3,114   977   982   3,144   763  
    Land development   583     35   80   22   561  
    Consumer land or lots   458   429   96   314   241   217  
    Unimproved land         36      
    Developed lots for operative builders   531   608   608   608     531  
    Commercial lots   47   47   47   188     47  
    Other construction     25     12,884      
    Total land, lot and other construction   1,619   1,109   786   14,110   263   1,356  
    Owner occupied   1,903   1,992   1,838   1,445   662   809   432
    Non-owner occupied   1,335   257   11,016   15,105   1,335    
    Total commercial real estate   3,238   2,249   12,854   16,550   1,997   809   432
    Commercial and Industrial   2,455   2,044   1,971   1,367   1,408   1,047  
    Agriculture   6,040   2,442   2,558   2,450   2,164   3,876  
    1st lien   6,065   2,923   2,664   2,766   3,724   2,341  
    Junior lien   279   492   180   363   279    
    Total 1-4 family   6,344   3,415   2,844   3,129   4,003   2,341  
    Multifamily residential   392   385   395     392    
    Home equity lines of credit   2,867   2,145   2,043   1,612   1,903   964  
    Other consumer   1,111   1,089   1,187   942   663   247   201
    Total consumer   3,978   3,234   3,230   2,554   2,566   1,211   201
    Other   148   16   16   1,141     148  
    Total $ 28,121   18,008   25,631   42,283   15,937   11,551   633
    Glacier Bancorp, Inc.
    Credit Quality Summary by Regulatory Classification (continued)
     
      Accruing 30-89 Days Delinquent Loans,  by Loan Type   % Change from
    (Dollars in thousands) Sep 30,
    2024
      Jun 30,
    2024
      Dec 31,
    2023
      Sep 30,
    2023
      Jun 30,
    2024
      Dec 31,
    2023
      Sep 30,
    2023
    Custom and owner occupied construction $ 13   $ 1,323   $ 2,549   $   (99) %   (99) %   n/m
    Pre-sold and spec construction   1,250     816     1,219     599   53  %   %   109  %
    Total residential construction   1,263     2,139     3,768     599   (41) %   (66) %   111  %
    Land development   157         163     44   n/m   (4) %   257  %
    Consumer land or lots   747     411     624     528   82  %   20  %   41  %
    Unimproved land   39     158         87   (75) %   n/m   (55) %
    Commercial lots           2,159     1,245   n/m   (100) %   (100) %
    Other construction       21           (100) %   n/m   n/m
    Total land, lot and other construction   943     590     2,946     1,904   60  %   (68) %   (50) %
    Owner occupied   5,641     4,326     2,222     652   30  %   154  %   765  %
    Non-owner occupied   13,785     8,119     14,471     213   70  %   (5) %   6,372  %
    Total commercial real estate   19,426     12,445     16,693     865   56  %   16  %   2,146  %
    Commercial and industrial   3,125     17,591     12,905     2,946   (82) %   (76) %   %
    Agriculture   16,932     5,288     594     604   220  %   2,751  %   2,703  %
    1st lien   6,275     2,637     3,768     1,006   138  %   67  %   524  %
    Junior lien   13     17     1     355   (24) %   1,200  %   (96) %
    Total 1-4 family   6,288     2,654     3,769     1,361   137  %   67  %   362  %
    Home equity lines of credit   4,567     5,432     4,518     3,638   (16) %   %   26  %
    Other consumer   2,227     2,192     3,264     1,821   %   (32) %   22  %
    Total consumer   6,794     7,624     7,782     5,459   (11) %   (13) %   24  %
    Other   1,442     1,347     1,510     1,515   %   (5) %   (5) %
    Total $ 56,213   $ 49,678   $ 49,967   $ 15,253   13  %   13  %   269  %

    ______________________________

    n/m – not measurable
    Glacier Bancorp, Inc.
    Credit Quality Summary by Regulatory Classification (continued)
     
      Net Charge-Offs (Recoveries), Year-to-Date
    Period Ending, By Loan Type
      Charge-Offs   Recoveries
    (Dollars in thousands) Sep 30,
    2024
      Jun 30,
    2024
      Dec 31,
    2023
      Sep 30,
    2023
      Sep 30,
    2024
      Sep 30,
    2024
    Pre-sold and spec construction $ (4 )   (4 )   (15 )   (12 )     4
    Land development   (21 )   (1 )   (135 )   (134 )     21
    Consumer land or lots   (21 )   (22 )   (19 )   (14 )     21
    Unimproved land   5     5             5  
    Commercial lots   319     319             319  
    Other construction           889          
    Total land, lot and other construction   282     301     735     (148 )   324   42
    Owner occupied   (73 )   (73 )   (59 )   (104 )     73
    Non-owner occupied   (3 )   (2 )   799     500       3
    Total commercial real estate   (76 )   (75 )   740     396       76
    Commercial and industrial   1,272     644     364     (11 )   1,839   567
    Agriculture   65     68             68   3
    1st lien   (34 )   (22 )   66     98       34
    Junior lien   (60 )   (55 )   24     32     10   70
    Total 1-4 family   (94 )   (77 )   90     130     10   104
    Multifamily residential           (136 )        
    Home equity lines of credit   (31 )   1     (6 )   20     35   66
    Other consumer   753     493     1,097     816     1,056   303
    Total consumer   722     494     1,091     836     1,091   369
    Other   6,561     4,611     7,447     5,430     9,074   2,513
    Total $ 8,728     5,962     10,316     6,621     12,406   3,678
     

    Visit our website at www.glacierbancorp.com

    CONTACT: Randall M. Chesler, CEO
    (406) 751-4722
    Ron J. Copher, CFO
    (406) 751-7706

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI USA: Agriculture Recovery Resource Day to Take Place in Grayson County, Va., on Oct. 29

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Agriculture Recovery Resource Day to Take Place in Grayson County, Va., on Oct. 29

    Agriculture Recovery Resource Day to Take Place in Grayson County, Va., on Oct. 29

    BRISTOL, Va.— Helene caused over $159 million in agricultural damage and farm losses in southwest Virginia, according to a recent assessment by the Virginia Cooperative Extension. Commonwealth, federal and local agencies will be coming together in day-long events dedicated to agricultural recovery to share information and resources with impacted producers. The commonwealth of Virginia, USDA and FEMA are jointly organizing an Agricultural Recovery Resource Day on Tuesday, Oct. 29, from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. in Grayson County. The event will take place at the Mountain View Baptist Church at 112 Mountain View Road in Independence, Va. At least two additional, day-long events are also being planned for the week of Nov. 3 in Wythe and Washington counties. Southwest Virginia farmers and agricultural producers whose operations were affected by Helene can attend any event and can arrive any time from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. For the latest information, please visit the event website: fema.gov/event/hurricane-helene-virginia-agricultural-recovery-resource-day“Multiple organizations, including federal, commonwealth, and local agencies have come together to help agricultural community recover from Tropical Storm Helene. The first Agriculture Recovery Resource Day will be an opportunity for farmers, private forest owners, and agribusiness owners to receive information and speak directly to representatives from over 15 agencies,” said FEMA Federal Coordinating Officer Timothy Pheil. “We understand the critical role agribusinesses play in Virginia’s economy, and through the Agriculture Recovery Resource Days, we’re working to provide farmers with direct access to the tools and resources they need to bounce back stronger than ever.”“Recovery is a long process. The commonwealth is working to coordinate resources for the agricultural community that was impacted by Tropical Storm Helene,”, said VDEM State Coordinating Officer Shawn Talmadge. “We welcome any farmers to the first Agriculture Recovery Resource Day in Grayson County”.The following agencies will be present on Agriculture Recovery Resource Day to answer questions about grants, loans and other resources available for the agricultural community: Federal agencies: Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) USDA Farm Service Agency (USDA FSA) USDA National Resources Conservation Agency (USDA NRCS) USDA Rural Development (USDA RD) Commonwealth agencies:Virginia Department of Emergency Management Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer ServicesVirginia Department of ForestryVirginia Department of Conservation and RecreationVirginia Department of Environmental QualityVirginia Cooperative ExtensionVirginia Department of HealthVirginia Tobacco Region Revitalization CommissionVirginia Small Business Financing AuthorityLocal agencies and organizations: Soil and Water Conservation DistrictsAgriSafeVirginia Farm Bureau Virginia Cattlemen’s Association Farm Credit of the Virginias First Bank & TrustMount Rogers Health DistrictGrayson CountyFarming is an economic driver in southwest Virginia and recovery for agribusiness is essential for long-term, sustainable recovery after Helene. The federal government and commonwealth are here to support recovery for the whole community. For additional disaster recovery resources, visit vaemergency.gov,  the Virginia Department of Emergency Management Facebook page , fema.gov/disaster/4831 and facebook.com/FEMA.  ###FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. FEMA Region 3’s jurisdiction includes Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia. Follow us on X at x.com/FEMAregion3 and on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/femaregion3.To apply for FEMA assistance, please call the FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-3362, visit https://www.disasterassistance.gov/, or download and apply on the FEMA App. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. Multilingual operators are available (press 2 for Spanish and 3 for other languages). Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status.
    erika.osullivan
    Thu, 10/24/2024 – 20:31

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Katie Hobbs and Local Leaders Applaud ADWR Steps Toward Protecting Arizona’s Water

    Source: US State of Arizona

    Phoenix, AZ —Today, Governor Katie Hobbs, local vineyard owner Mark Jorve, farmer Ed Curry, and resident Steve Kisiel issued statements in support of the Arizona Department of Water Resources announcing the Notice of Initiation of Designation Procedures for a potential Willcox Groundwater Basin AMA.

    “When I traveled to Willcox, I heard stories from farmers, local well owners, and a bipartisan group of elected officials who are concerned about their community’s future because of groundwater depletion,” said Governor Katie Hobbs. “I saw dried up wells, fissures in the earth, and farms struggling to survive because of unchecked pumping of the precious water that Arizonans rely on. As the Department of Water Resources begins this important process, I look forward to hearing more from Arizonans concerned about securing our water future. 

    “For too long, politicians have stuck their heads in the sand and refused to take action to fix the problems Arizonans face. I won’t. I know protecting our water isn’t a Democratic or a Republican issue, it’s an Arizona issue. I will continue to put politics aside and work across the aisle to deliver the solutions Arizonans are desperate for.”

    “We support and welcome this step taken towards protecting our water supplies. As a small business vineyard in the Willcox groundwater basin we’ve experienced firsthand the alarming declines in our local water levels due to decades of unchecked, unlimited groundwater pumping,” said Mark Jorve, owner of Zarpara Vineyard. “An AMA designation would finally put us on a path to stabilizing this precious and shared resource to safeguard local growers and business owners.”

    “When a situation becomes a crisis, it demands action,” said fourth-generation Arizona farmer, Ed Curry. “This announcement of a potential AMA is a new beginning for the Willcox Basin, and we must continue to work together to move forward to protect our groundwater supplies. I am thankful for the courage of Governor Hobbs and her administration to tackle these issues head on.”

    “Today’s announcement by ADWR to initiate the AMA designation process gives me hope that we will finally have a secure water future here in the Willcox Basin,” said Willcox basin homeowner Steve Kisiel. “For too many years legislative and executive inaction to protect rural groundwater in Arizona has led to severe consequences for myself and my neighbors. While today’s announcement is just the first step on our journey toward a better water future, we can finally see a solution on the horizon. Thank you to ADWR and Governor Hobbs for your historic work to preserve our groundwater supplies.”

    The action comes after Governor Hobbs visited the Willcox basin to examine the effects of unlimited groundwater pumping, including dried wells and earth fissures, and met with local officials and everyday Arizonans to hear more about their experiences with groundwater depletion. Groundwater conditions in the Willcox Basin have declined at alarming rates, making it one of the most endangered groundwater basins in the state. 

    The Notice of Initiation of Designation Procedures is the first step in ADWR considering designating an Active Management Area in the Willcox Groundwater Basin. As a part of that process, ADWR is accepting comments and will hold a public hearing at 1:00 p.m. on November 22, 2024, at the Willcox Community Center. 

    More information on groundwater conditions in the Willcox Basin can be found HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Security: Justice Department Secures Agreement to Resolve Claims of Retaliation at State Farm Corporate Office in Texas

    Source: United States Attorneys General 7

    The Justice Department announced today that it secured a settlement agreement with State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company (State Farm) resolving the department’s determination that one of State Farm’s corporate offices in Richardson, Texas, violated the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) when it terminated a worker in retaliation for raising concerns about citizenship status discrimination.

    “Workers have the right to oppose perceived discrimination, without retaliation,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “The Justice Department is committed to ensuring workers are able to speak up about discrimination without fear of unlawful retaliation.”

    The Civil Rights Division’s Immigrant and Employee Rights Section (IER) determined that State Farm terminated a worker and placed her on a “do not hire” list because the worker opposed State Farm’s rejection of her valid documentation showing her permission to work. State Farm rejected the worker’s valid documentation, which included a Permanent Resident Card together with a notice from the Department of Homeland Security that extended the validity of the card past the expiration date listed on the card. The worker complained of discrimination and opposed the rejection of the documents. The department determined that State Farm retaliated against the worker when it terminated her employment and labeled her as “do not hire” for complaining about the discrimination.

    Under the terms of the settlement, the company will pay civil penalties to the United States and pay more than $30,000 in backpay to the affected worker who filed a complaint with IER. The agreement also requires State Farm to train its personnel on the INA’s anti-discrimination requirements, revise its employment policies and be subject to departmental monitoring and reporting requirements.

    IER is responsible for enforcing the antidiscrimination provision of the INA. Among other things, the statute prohibits discrimination based on citizenship status and national origin in hiring, firing or recruitment or referral for a fee; unfair documentary practices; or retaliation and intimidation.

    Find more information on how employers can avoid unlawful discrimination and retaliation on IER’s website. Learn more about IER’s work and how to get assistance through this brief video. Applicants or employees who believe they were discriminated against based on their citizenship, immigration status or national origin in hiring, firing, recruitment or during the employment eligibility verification process (Form I-9 and E-Verify); or subjected to retaliation, may file a charge. The public can also call IER’s free hotline at 1-800-255-7688 for workers or at 1-800-255-8155 for employers (1-800-237-2515, TTY for hearing impaired); sign up for a live webinar or watch an on-demand presentation; email IER@usdoj.gov or visit IER’s English and Spanish websites. Sign up for email updates from IER.

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sorensen Returns Over $3.2 Million to Illinois Neighbors

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17)

    ROCK ISLAND, IL – Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17) is announcing that his office has returned more than $3.2 million to his neighbors through federal casework services since he was sworn into Congress. 

    “My number one job as the representative for Central and Northwestern Illinois in Congress is to make sure the federal government is working on behalf of my neighbors,” said Sorensen. “I know how stressful it can be when you need help from the government and all you get is the runaround. That is where I can step in to get you the help you need. I am proud of the work we have done to put more than $3.2 million of my neighbor’s hard-earned cash back in their pockets. If you need any help dealing with a federal agency, know that I have your back.” 

    The more than $3,263,230 secured for his neighbors across Central and Northwestern Illinois comes as a result of Sorensen and his staff’s work to help constituents get the refunds and benefits they are owed from federal agencies, which include overdue tax returns and delayed Social Security, veterans, and worker’s compensation benefits.  

    Residents of Illinois’ 17th Congressional District who need help with a federal agency are encouraged to contact Sorensen’s office at (309) 786-3406 or fill out a casework request form on Sorensen’s official website. All submissions are reviewed by a member of Sorensen’s staff. 

    The following stories are from constituents that Sorensen’s office has helped: 

    Daniel from Peoria Heights reached out to get help with VA benefits: “I was having trouble having my VA benefits reinstated after they were mistakenly revoked after contacting Representative Sorensen’s office Hillary handle my case and my benefits were reinstated, and I had a check within 30 days.” 

    Holly from Morrison needed help getting issues resolved between her and the IRS: “I reached out in hopes to get help with repeated problems I have been having with the IRS. They were able to reach out on my behalf and figure the issue out. Within a very short timeframe my issues were all resolved.” 

    Deb from Freeport needed to get her families passports renewed quickly and called Sorensen’s office for help: “Staff helped us with the issue we were having trying to renew our passports. If she would not have kept pushing for a resolution, we would not have received them, as the only response we could get was the passport processing center lost them. We are so thankful for their continued excellent fast assistance to our needs.” 

    Katie from Monmouth lost her job and needed help getting her past wages: “Ever since I lost my job at WCCS Head Start, I have had help with gaining information on how to get my past wages that are due. Eric Sorensen’s office has helped me gain information about my situation and ways to improve the outcome.” 

    Bob from Peoria needed help getting Medicare Part B coverage: “I was having difficulty trying to get my Medicare Part B to begin on September 1st, 2023, with our local office of the Social Security Administration. After many failed attempts to get a certain individual to return my calls, as well as several conversations with the Chicago and Maryland offices with no results, I contacted your office. I spoke with staff in your office about my difficulties with this matter on August 31st, 2023, and within three days, our local office received a letter or document from your office, and they got me signed up for Part B on September 15th, 2023, to be effective on September 1st, 2023. Staff were caring and showed extraordinary expedience in helping me get this issue resolved.” 

    Melissa from Rock Island reached out to get help with a refugee family: “Staff assisted me in the process of rescheduling USCIS appointments for a refugee family in Moline. Her assistance has allowed a constituent and her family the opportunity to continue the immigration process more easily. Staff has been friendly, supportive, and knowledgeable every step of the process. We are so grateful for her help.” 

    Congressman Eric Sorensen serves on the House Committee on Agriculture and the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology. Prior to serving in Congress, Sorensen was a local meteorologist in Rockford and the Quad Cities for nearly 20 years. His district includes Illinois’ Quad Cities, Rockford, Peoria, and Bloomington-Normal.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Shapiro Announces $3 Million Investment in Erie County Organic Potato Company to Create Local Jobs and Grow Pennsylvania’s Agricultural Sector

    Source: US State of Pennsylvania

    October 23, 2024Waterford, PA

    Governor Shapiro Announces $3 Million Investment in Erie County Organic Potato Company to Create Local Jobs and Grow Pennsylvania’s Agricultural Sector

    Governor Josh Shapiro visited start-up company Folkland Foods, located in Waterford, Erie County, to announce a $3 million Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP) investment in the company. This funding will support a significant capital expansion that will enable Folkland’s parent company Troyer, Inc. – the only organic potato supplier on the East Coast – to expand its operations, transition more acreage to organic farming, and begin producing a range of potato products, creating up to 50 new local jobs in the region over the first three years.

    Owned and operated by the Troyer family, who have been a mainstay in northwestern Pennsylvania’s potato farming industry for three generations, Folkland Foods is poised to build on its legacy of agricultural success and pioneering role in organic farming.

    “I’m excited to announce this $3 million investment in Folkland Foods, a company that is leading the way in organic farming and sustainable practices, built on hard work and know-how developed right here in Pennsylvania. This expansion will create 50 new, good-paying jobs and significantly boost the local economy in Erie County, all while reinforcing Pennsylvania’s reputation as a leader in agriculture and food production,” said Governor Shapiro. “My Administration is committed to making targeted investments like this one that benefit our farmers, strengthen rural economies, and ensure Pennsylvania remains at the forefront of agricultural innovation and production for generations to come.”

    List of Speakers:
    Zack Troyer, co-founder of Folkland Foods
    Governor Shapiro
    Department of Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding
    Brian Garlick, Folkland’s Chief Operating Officer

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Activist News – Christchurch City Council leads – Luxon government must follow – PSNA

    Source: Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa

     

    Following the principled decision of the Christchurch City Council this week to change its procurement policy to exclude companies involved in illegal Israeli settlements, nationwide protests this week will be demanding the government:

     

    • Ban all imports into Aotearoa New Zealand from illegal Israeli settlements
    • End government procurement of goods and services from companies identified by the UN as complicit in the building and maintaining of illegal Israeli settlements
    • Direct the Superfund, ACC and Kiwisaver providers to end investments in the companies involved in illegal Israeli settlements

     

    The Christchurch City Council has shown the way. The Luxon government must follow.

     

    PSNA has asked the government to take these steps – we have had no response for two months.

     

    John Minto

    National Chair

    Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa

     

    Nationwide rallies/marches/MP protests/vigils this week

     

    These are on the PSNA Facebook events page here with the basic details listed below.

     

    North Island
    Opononi – Gathering for Palestine
    Sunday 27 October
    No Rally this weekend
     
    Kerikeri – Rally
    Saturday 26 October
    No Rally this weekend
     
    Whangarei – Rally
    Saturday 26 October
    No Rally this weekend
     
    Auckland – Talk by Vijay Prashad
    Thursday 24 October
    7:00 pm
    Western Springs Garden Community Center
    956 Great North Road, Western Springs
     
    Auckland – Picket
    Friday 25 October
    No Picket this Friday – Labour Weekend
    Next picket Wed 30 October @ 4:00 pm outside the US Consulate
      
    Waiheke – Market Stall – hosted by Stand With Palestine Waiheke!
    Every Saturday
    8:00 am – 1:00 pm
    Ostend Market, Waiheke Island
     
    Auckland – Banners around Tamaki Makaurau
    Every Saturday
    10:00 am
    Text John on 021 899 659 for location
     
    Auckland – Rally
    Saturday 26 October
    2:00 pm
    Te Komititanga – Britomart Square, Tamaki Makaurau
     
    Thames – Vigil to Stop the war on Children
    (Hosted by The Basket – Social and Environmental Justice – Hauraki)
    First Saturday of the month
     
    Tauranga – Flag wave
    Monday 28 – Labour Day
    1:00 am
    Coronation park, Mt Maunganui
     
    Whakatane
    Saturday 26 October
    Rallies are being organised
    Watch this space
     
    Hamilton – Flag Waving for Palestine
    Saturday 26 October
    1:00 pm
    Flynn Park, Hamilton
     
    Raglan
    To be advised
    Watch this space
     
    Cambridge – Rally for Palestine
    Every Saturday
    11:00 am
    Cambridge Town Hall
     
    Rotorua – Rally for Palestine
    Every Thursday
    4:30 pm
    National MP Todd McClays Office – Cnr Amohau and Ranolf St lights, Rotorua
     
    Gisborne – Farmers Market – Vigil to Stop the war on Children
    Every Saturday
    9:30 – 11:30 am
    Gisborne Farmers Market
     
    Napier – Rally for Palestine
    Saturday 26 October
    11:30 am
    Marine Parade Soundshell Roundabout
     
    Hastings – Rally for Palestine
    Sunday 27 October
    1:00 pm
    Hastings Town Clock – Hastings CBD
     
    Palmerston North – Rally for Palestine
    Sunday 27 October
    2:00 pm
    The Square, Palmerston North
     
    New Plymouth – Flags on the Bridge
    Friday 25 September
    4:30 pm
    Paynters Ave Bridge, New Plymouth
     
    New Plymouth – March for Gaza
    Saturday 26 October
    1:00 PM
    Huatoki Plaza, Ngamotu, New Plymouth
     
    Whanganui – Rally for Palestine
    Saturday 26 October
    11:00 am
    Riverside Market, Whanganui
     
    Carterton – Gathering for Gaza
    Every Tuesday
    12:00 midday
    Memorial Square.
     
    Martinborough – Vigil for Palestine
    Every Wednesday
    11:00 am
    The square at the top of Kitchener St, Martinborough
     
    Masterton – Gathering for Gaza
    Every Sunday
    9:30 am
    Town Hall Lawn, Masterton
     
    Featherston – Gathering for Gaza
    Every Saturday
    11:00 am
    The Squircle (opposite the op shop).
     
    Wellington – Vigil for Palestine (by Aotearoa Healthcare Workers for Palestine)
    Every Friday
    6:00 pm
    In front of Wellington Hospital
    49 Riddiford Street, Newtown, Wellington
     
    Wellington – Flags on the Bridge
    (hosted by the Falastin Tea Collective)
    Every Friday
    7:15 – 8:15 am
    Hill Street bridge Overbridge, Wellington
     
    Wellington – Obela boycott rally
    (hosted by the Falastin Tea Collective)
    Saturday 26 October
    1:00 – 2:00 pm
    Outside Countdown in Newtown, Wellington
    Meeting on the corner of Hanson St and John St
     
    South Island
    Nelson – Rally for Palestine
    Saturday 26 October
    10:30 am
    Rocks Road by the beach
     
    Blenheim – Rally for Palestine
    Saturday 26 October
    11:00 am
    Blenheim Railway Station
     
    Littleton – Flag Waving for Palestine
    Wednesday 23 October
    4:00 pm
    Corner of Sutton Quay and Norwich Quay, Littleton
     
    Christchurch – Flag Waving for Palestine
    Friday 25 October
    4:00 pm
    Bridge of Remembrance, Cashel Street, Christchurch
     
    Christchurch – Rally
    Saturday 26 October
    1:00 – 2:00 pm
    Bridge of Remembrance, Cashel Street, Christchurch
     
    Timaru
    No Rally this weekend
     
    Dunedin – Rally and March
    Saturday 19 October
    No Rally this weekend
     
    Queenstown
    No Rally this weekend
     
    Invercargill – Rally for Palestine
    Sunday 27 October
    1:00 pm
    Wachner place Invercargill.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Standing up for Alberta’s livestock industry

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    [embedded content]

    The federal government’s Bill C-293, An Act respecting pandemic prevention and preparedness, is currently moving through the Senate, despite the risks it brings to the agriculture and food industry. Alberta’s government is standing with industry members against this highly intrusive legislation that unfairly singles out the agriculture and food industry and encroaches on Section 95 of the Constitution, which sets agriculture within the exclusive jurisdiction of the province.

    Under the proposed legislation, public health officials would have the authority during a pandemic to close facilities they consider “high risk,” such as livestock operations and meat processing plants, and even “mandate” the consumption of vegetable proteins by Canadians. Not only would this threaten global food security and the role Alberta and Canada play in feeding the world, but it would also open the door for the federal government to tell Canadians what they can eat.

    “Farming is woven into the fabric of our national identity, with modern livestock agriculture playing a vital role. Bill C-293, however, goes so far as to pick winners and losers within the agriculture sector, with potentially wide-reaching, catastrophically damaging regulations and restriction of commercial freedoms for agricultural producers and processors.”

    RJ Sigurdson, Minister of Agriculture and Irrigation

    The proposed legislation also introduces several public health mitigation strategies that may not align with local health data and do not adequately reflect specific regional needs. Provinces and territories have exclusive jurisdiction over the planning, organization and management of their health care systems, including response to public health emergencies, and the federal bill would once again enable the federal government to overreach their constitutional jurisdiction.

    “Local governing bodies are in the best position to create emergency preparedness plans that suit the unique needs of their province and territory. The federal government should be engaging meaningfully with each jurisdiction on any Pandemic Prevention and Preparedness Plan related to Bill C-293 before being implemented.”

    Adriana LaGrange, Minister of Health

    One of the bill’s most alarming aspects is the discretionary power it would grant to officials to shut down agricultural facilities without clear, objective criteria. Such uninformed actions could disrupt not only meat supply chains, but also the wider agricultural operations linked to them, including feed production. This threatens to destabilize related sectors and could trigger cascading effects throughout the entire food system.

    Additionally, the bill seeks to regulate and possibly phase out certain farming practices considered high-risk for pandemic propagation. This could abruptly alter farm and ranch operations, significantly affect producers and processors livelihoods, and negatively impact our economic stability.

    Key Canadian agricultural organizations representing the province’s agriculture sectors are echoing Alberta’s concerns about this bill.

    “Our Alberta family farms are committed to producing safe, high-quality chicken while maintaining the highest standards of biosecurity. We support pandemic preparedness, but Bill C-293 unfairly targets animal agriculture and could threaten the livelihoods of our farm families. We are asking the federal government to ensure this bill is amended so farmers can continue to feed Canadians without facing unnecessary restrictions.”

    David Hyink, chair, Alberta Chicken Producers

    “Alberta Beef Producers supports the overall objective of pandemic preparedness. However, we are disappointed in the current wording of Bill C-293, as it unfairly singles out animal agriculture, despite the industry’s critical role in food security and rural economies. We urge policymakers to amend the bill to reflect a balanced and fair approach that supports emergency preparedness without unfairly targeting a single sector.”

    Doug Roxburgh, vice-chair, Alberta Beef Producers

    The legislation purports to examine pandemic preparedness and apply learnings from COVID-19, but it has dangerously imprecise language that is open to drastic interpretations. For example, the bill provides for measures to “regulate commercial activities that can help reduce pandemic risk, including industrial animal agriculture.” The bill also suggests phasing out “commercial activities that disproportionately contribute to pandemic risk,” which puts Alberta’s agriculture industry at risk, in addition to others.

    Alberta has sent a letter to Alberta senators and the ministers of Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada and Health Canada to relay concerns with the bill’s content. Minister Sigurdson requested that the bill be amended with more flexible language to avoid unintended consequences.

    Canada already has legislation, animal disease surveillance and action plans to ensure farm food safety and biosecurity programs reduce risks associated with zoonotic disease. This new legislation is therefore unnecessary, especially in its current form.

    Quick facts

    • The bill would require the development of a human pandemic prevention and preparedness plan; however, after consultation with the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada and provincial governments, the bill alludes to:
      • regulating industrial animal agriculture to reduce any possible contribution to pandemic risk (zoonotic diseases);
      • phasing out farming of livestock species that might pose a high risk; and
      • promoting alternative protein sources for human consumption.
    • The bill also contains measures that would be redundant in noted areas of concern around disease surveillance, regulation of livestock production and antimicrobial resistance.
      • Intensive livestock and poultry production carries some risk for zoonotic diseases like influenza in swine or poultry or coronaviruses in swine or cattle, but Canada’s on-farm food safety and biosecurity programs greatly reduce those risks.
      • The notion of sacrificing Canadian production levels and exports without assessing the disease risk in a global context, by comparing to livestock markets and production systems in other countries, could result in wide-reaching economic and global food security implications.
    • The bill outlines the requirement to form an advisory committee within 90 days after being passed.
      • This may provide some ability to influence the course of direction, but it is unclear what power the advisory committee would have.

    Multimedia

    • Watch the news conference

    MIL OSI Canada News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Wyden, Merkley: Conservation Projects in Central, Eastern & Southern Oregon Earn $95.7 Million in Federal Investment

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore)

    October 24, 2024

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Sens. Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley today announced that five rural Oregon conservation projects have secured a total of more than $95 million in federal investment to help farmers, ranchers, and forest landowners adopt and expand strategies that enhance natural resources while tackling the climate crisis. .

    “These significant federal investments add up to huge benefits for Oregonians working to achieve a more sustainable future in rural counties by reducing the risk of wildfire, conserving water and strengthening ranching and farming,” Wyden said. “I’m gratified these federal resources are heading to Central, Eastern and Southern Oregon – and I’ll keep battling for similar federal funds that produce real results like these five standout projects.”

    “We must continue to find creative ways to conserve and protect Oregon’s diverse lands, wildlife, and natural resources which are critical to our ecosystems and economy,” said Merkley, who serves on the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee that oversees funding for the USDA. “These huge, multi-million-dollar investments from the Regional Conservation Partnership Program will help fight climate chaos and make our rural communities stronger now and into the future.”

    The $95.7 million for the five Oregon projects from the U.S. Agriculture Department’s Regional Conservation Partnership Program will be distributed as follows:

    • Pilot Butte Canal King Way Irrigation Modernization and Conservation, $25 million for the Deschutes River Conservancy: This project employs district canal piping, private lateral piping, on-farm efficiencies, and water marketing to save water in the Central Oregon Irrigation District. That water will be redirected to the North Unit Irrigation District in exchange for using stored water from Wickiup Reservoir to manage flows in the Upper Deschutes. Water savings generated will contribute directly to basin-wide goals of increasing flows in the Upper Deschutes to benefit listed species.
    • Greater Waterman Landscape Resiliency Project, $21.2 million for the Wheeler Soil and Water Conservation District: This 338,596-acre project will conserve, restore, and enhance more than 23,000 acres of critical range and forest lands for 92 producers in the Middle John Day Basin. The project area has experienced significant landscape degradation, specifically due to fire suppression and unsustainable grazing practices. Forest stand density has increased, leading to unhealthy stands more susceptible to wildfire, insects, and disease. This project will reverse these trends, and help landowners work toward a more resilient landscape that stores long-term carbon and is more resilient to climate change impacts; allowing producers to maintain the landscape as critical working lands for agriculture, forestry, and livestock grazing.
    • Rogue Bear All-Lands Restoration Project, $21.2 million for the Lomakatsi Restoration Project: This project aims to strategically reduce hazardous fuels and improve forest health on 8,500 to 10,000 acres of private non-industrial forestland across very high wildlife risk zone in the Rogue Basin of southwest Oregon. Additional project goals include improved forestland resilience and air quality, enhanced wildlife habitat and increased carbon sequestration.
    • Expanding Resilient Working Lands in Harney County, $18.4 million to the High Desert Partnership: This project will expand existing conservation efforts, implementing climate smart and other adaptive practices on a landscape scale to help producers and wildlife build resilience to increasingly frequent and severe drought. Partners will target practices in wetlands to enhance habitat and production in flood-irrigated grass hay meadows with benefits to wildlife and livestock. Partners will scale up practices that promote healthy sagebrush and forests to reduce impacts of catastrophic wildfires to benefit the community and wildlife, increasing their resiliency to a changing climate.
    • Project Ignite-Restore, $9.9 million for the Oregon Department of Forestry: This project will work to reduce fuel load hazards and improve forest health on 4,600 acres in underserved communities within Southern Oregon that connect with previous treatments.

    “This award enables partners in the Deschutes Basin to implement major canal piping projects that permanently restore streamflows (3,900 acre-feet; 12 cubic feet per second) to the Deschutes River while helping relieve water scarcity for farmers,” said Deschutes River Conservancy Executive Director Kate Fitzpatrick. “It also enables complementary on-farm efficiency upgrades to increase water savings. We are grateful for Senators Wyden and Merkley for continuing to fund critical programs like the Regional Conservation Partnership Program, supporting collaborative water solutions in the Deschutes Basin that result in real and significant outcomes for rivers and farmers.”

    “The award of our Greater Waterman RCPP project brings a renewed excitement following the devastation of the 2024 wildfire season in Wheeler County” said Cassi Newton, District Manager for the Wheeler Soil & Water Conservation District. “This project truly started at the local level with landowners eager to restore and protect the landscape. The project fosters future conditions that reduce catastrophic wildfire risk, return critical water to the basin, generate natural climate solutions that secure carbon, and meet the current and future economic and social needs of the basin. Wheeler SWCD is sincerely thankful for the support from Senators Wyden and Merkley in our efforts of restoring and protecting natural resources in the John Day Basin.”

    “Lomakatsi is excited to continue our long-standing partnership with the Natural Resources Conservation Service, the US Fish & Wildlife Service, and other agency, municipal, and nonprofit partners—including through Rogue Forest Partners—to increase community and ecosystem resilience across the Rogue Valley of southwest Oregon. This investment through the Farm Bill and Inflation Reduction Act will expand on two decades of collaboration reducing wildfire risk and building climate adapted landscapes within and adjacent to communities at some of the highest wildlife risk in the entire state, while supporting local jobs,” said Lomakatsi Executive Director Marko Bey. “Lomakatsi is honored to serve as the lead on behalf of a robust partnership, as we scale our operations through this Alternative Funding Arrangement to strategically treat hazardous fuels on up to 10,000 acres of private land west of Medford and north of Jacksonville over the next five years, complementing resiliency work on adjacent federal and municipal lands in an all-lands approach.”

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Interview with Leon Delaney, Canberra Live, 2CC

    Source: Australian Treasurer

    LEON DELANEY:

    The federal government is encouraging businesses that supply stock to major supermarkets to submit feedback to the 2024 annual Food and Grocery Code Independent Reviewer Survey. To tell us what’s going on, Assistant Minister for Competition, Charities and Treasury and Employment, and of course, our local member here in the seat of Fenner, Dr Andrew Leigh. Good afternoon.

    ANDREW LEIGH:

    Good afternoon, Leon. Great to be with you.

    DELANEY:

    Well, thanks for joining us today. So, what’s going on with this independent survey?

    LEIGH:

    The Food and Grocery Code of Conduct governs the relationship between the big supermarkets and their suppliers. We’ve known that big supermarkets can squeeze their consumers, but also that suppliers can be put on the hook. When there’s only a couple of supermarkets and a lot of suppliers, then there’s a significant power imbalance. So, Labor has announced that the Food and Grocery Code of Conduct will be made mandatory, with significant penalties for breaching it. As part of that, we’re now reaching out to suppliers and saying, give us your feedback on how your relationship has been with the supermarkets in order to feed into the process.

    DELANEY:

    This question about suppliers being squeezed by the big supermarkets was one of the things that emerged from the Emerson inquiry, wasn’t it?

    LEIGH:

    That’s right. So, we asked Craig Emerson, the former competition minister, to have a careful look as to whether the voluntary code of conduct, the way it was set up by the Liberals, was good enough. He came back to us and said, no, voluntary isn’t good enough, it needs to be mandatory. So, we’re getting on with the job. The new code will have multimillion dollar penalties for the serious breaches, and it’ll also make sure the competition watchdog has powers to issue infringement notices. So, that’ll take effect from 1 April next year. What we’re doing alongside that is encouraging businesses to share their views with the independent code reviewer.

    DELANEY:

    It has been reported previously that some suppliers have been reluctant to speak up in the past for fear of reprisals. Is there any risk that businesses that submit to this particular survey might become targets for some sort of backlash?

    LEIGH:

    Not at all. The survey is fully anonymous and people will be able to raise complaints without any concerns about reprisals. And in terms of the code itself, we’ve listened to that feedback from farmers and we’ve now ensured that there is an anonymous complaints process that will work as part of that code, because no code is effective if the people who are being hurt are too scared to speak up.

    DELANEY:

    Now, of course, I know that the authorities are still looking into the question about supermarkets and so called fake discounts, but I’ve heard one of the arguments put forward by the supermarkets is that they’ve been pushed around by suppliers and the increase in costs of the goods that they’ve had to purchase, they’ve attempted to shift the blame. Is there some truth to that? Because obviously we’ve all experienced increasing prices. The cost‑of‑living crisis seems to be something that’s impacting across the board, isn’t it?

    LEIGH:

    Well, I need to be fairly careful about this because it’s a dispute that’s playing out in the courts at the moment, and the last thing I’d want to do is imperil that trial. But as I understand it, the claims that are being made have to do with what labelling was put on the shelf by the supermarkets. So, I guess it’ll be up to the supermarkets to explain whether or not the labelling that they put out was consistent with the consumer law.

    DELANEY:

    Okay. And we’ll have to wait and see what the court ultimately decides there this week. Also, we’ve heard from your colleague, the Assistant Treasurer Stephen Jones, that the government is pushing ahead with its plans to improve protections from scams, including funding for the creation of a single pathway for those who have been victims to seek some sort of compensation. How will that work?

    LEIGH:

    We’re going to make Australia the hardest target for scammers, making life better for consumers and worse for scammers. We know there are plenty of Australians who fall victim to scams every year. There’s about 11,000 scam related complaints made to the Australian Financial Complaints Authority, but people often aren’t sure who to go to. So, if there’s a scam on social media and you transfer money out of your bank, do you go to the bank or the social media platform or someone else? The single pathway, funded by almost $15 million in new money, will ensure that people have a one‑stop‑shop to go to if they do fall victim to these sorts of scams.

    DELANEY:

    Okay, so it’s one thing to have somewhere to go, somebody to call and say, look, I’ve got a problem here, but do we need to also increase the responsibilities of financial institutions such as banks? Because the regulation here in Australia is considerably less rigorous than it is in some other jurisdictions, for example, in the UK, where banks have no choice but to refund the victims of scams.

    LEIGH:

    The UK is unique in that regard. It’s the only jurisdiction that’s requiring that payback and it’s only just come into effect. We and the rest of the world are watching to see how that pans out. The concern that has been raised by some people is that you don’t want to let off other players, such as a social media platform that carried a misleading advertisement that sucked someone in. You don’t want to let them off the hook. So, we’re making sure that the banks are doing the right thing, but also ensuring that we’ve got a sender ID register. And so if there’s a name that’s appearing in the place of the mobile phone number that’s coming in, that that can can’t be somehow used in order to dupe people. We were doing everything we can. And Stephen Jones has been doing a lot of work in this area to make Australia a harder target for scammers, so the scammers go somewhere else.

    DELANEY:

    Yeah, you’re right about the social media platforms. If you have a problem with one of the big social media platforms, you don’t really have anybody you can pick up the phone and call. With the banks, at least they have a phone number you can ring and mechanisms in place to deal with people’s inquiries. But if you have a problem with Facebook, you might as well just give.

    LEIGH:

    Yeah, I mean, the social media platforms are very poor in terms of their dispute resolution mechanisms. Stephen Jones argues that redress from them is close to impossible. So, that’s why we’re giving this new resources to the Australian Financial Complaints Authority, allowing them to have a single pathway and also putting more pressure on the social media platforms to do the right thing. I mean, let’s face it, they’re making billions of dollars out of their operations. The very least they can do is to ensure that they’re not funnelling Australians’ hard‑earned money into the pockets of scammers.

    DELANEY:

    Indeed, the big tech platforms do seem to be making plenty of hay while the sun is shining, but they’re doing so without any kind of sense of social responsibility. Before we run out of time, there’s a couple of other things. We’ve just seen the King’s visit over the last few days, which overall went remarkably well. We haven’t turned on fantastically spectacular weather for the King and the Queen, which was good to see. I’m assuming that you had the opportunity to shake hands and say hello.

    LEIGH:

    I was involved in something else. Just next to me was Danny and Leila Abdallah, who lost 3 children to a driver who was under the influence and then extraordinarily set up a charity called ‘I4Give’ calling on people to be able to give back. So, myself and other Labor colleagues saw our only job has been to make sure that Danny and Leila had a chance to meet the King and to talk about the work their charity does. So, I didn’t get to shake his hand and that was all perfectly fine.

    DELANEY:

    Okay, content to sit back in the background, unlike a certain Senator who made a hell of a song and dance at the official reception at the Parliament House. A lot of people are asking if Lidia Thorpe can be removed from the senate because she appears to have broken her oath, which she now says she didn’t really properly swear in the first place.

    LEIGH:

    Well, I think that’ll be for others to judge. It’s for Senator Thorpe to account for her actions. It did seem somewhat strange to me that somebody who had argued against a voice for First Nations people was so keen on shouting in the Great Hall. But she can account for that to her voters.

    DELANEY:

    And finally, of course, I presume you’re pleased with the outcome of the ACT election, with Labor appearing now set to be returned with a reduced representation for the Greens, but we’re still not sure exactly how many seats they’re going to have in the new assembly. But the success of the independents, do you think that has a message for federal politics as we head into the election early next year bearing in mind that we’ve seen in Pittwater in NSW, another independent also be successful at the by‑election there, what do you think of this increased support for independents?

    LEIGH:

    Well, the Teal movement is real and it’s clearly not going away. And I think in this instance, as the Greens became more extreme and were focusing a bit more on foreign policy than local issues, then they made themselves pretty unattractive to many of their voters. And those voters naturally turned to independent voices. It’s pretty remarkable that Andrew Barr is able to again lead the Labor party to re‑election. This is a renewed government. It’s terrific to see people like Caitlin Tough and Taimus Werner‑Gibbings going into the Assembly. People who’ll be fresh voices for their communities.

    DELANEY:

    Any words of sympathy for Mick Gentleman?

    LEIGH:

    Oh, look, you certainly feel for everyone who misses out, particularly Mick, who’s been a stalwart of the Labor party, somebody who has worked so hard for so long for the values that we care about. I don’t think it’s completely over. I understand the counting there is still on the knife edge, but regardless of which way it goes, Mick has had an extraordinary career, a great contributor to Canberra.

    DELANEY:

    Andrew, thanks very much for your time today.

    LEIGH:

    Thanks so much, Leon.

    MIL OSI News

  • MIL-OSI USA: FEMA Administrator Meets Officials and Survivors in South Carolina and Checks on Helene Recovery Efforts as Assistance to Survivors Surpasses $1 Billion

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: FEMA Administrator Meets Officials and Survivors in South Carolina and Checks on Helene Recovery Efforts as Assistance to Survivors Surpasses $1 Billion

    FEMA Administrator Meets Officials and Survivors in South Carolina and Checks on Helene Recovery Efforts as Assistance to Survivors Surpasses $1 Billion

    WASHINGTON – FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell traveled to South Carolina to meet with local and state officials today and check-in on long-term recovery efforts. She surveyed areas affected by Hurricane Helene in Aiken, South Carolina.  Criswell, who is directing the federal response to Helene, visited a Disaster Recovery Center in Aiken and met with survivors. There are nearly 60 centers open across states affected by Helene and Milton where survivors can speak with representatives from states, FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration that can assist them with their recovery.  Survivors can find their closest center at FEMA.gov/DRC. So far, FEMA has approved more than $1 billion in assistance for individuals and families affected by hurricanes Helene and Milton to help pay for housing repairs, personal property replacement, and other recovery efforts. Over 5,000 FEMA personnel are supporting communities across the Southeast where they’re coordinating with local officials, conducting damage assessments and helping individuals apply for disaster assistance programs.Additionally, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers announced Operation Blue Roof which is a free service to homeowners for 25 counties in Florida impacted by Hurricane Milton. Residents can sign-up at www.blueroof.gov or by calling 888-ROOF-BLU (888-766-3258).  The sign-up period deadline is Nov. 5.FEMA encourages Helene and Milton survivors to apply for disaster assistance online as this remains the quickest way to start your recovery. Individuals can apply for federal assistance by: Applying online at disasterassistance.govCalling 800-621-3362, Staffed daily from 7 a.m.-10 p.m. local timeUsing the FEMA AppVisiting a Disaster Recovery Center to talk with FEMA and state agency officials and apply for assistancePresident Joseph R. Biden has approved major disaster declarations in six states–Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia–affected by Helene. He has also approved a major disaster declaration for Florida following Hurricane Milton.These photos highlight response and recovery efforts across states impacted by hurricanes Helene and Milton.

    AUGUSTA, Georgia – FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell talks with a hurricane survivor during her visit to the impacted area to learn more about the ongoing recovery efforts. (Photo credit: FEMA)

    AUGUSTA, Georgia – FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell visits a Disaster Recovery Center where staff are helping survivors jumpstart their recovery following Hurricane Helene. (Photo credit: FEMA)

    PUNTA GORDA, Florida – FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Team members conduct outreach in affected communities to inform survivors about local and FEMA resources for their recovery. (Photo Credit: FEMA)

    CALDWELL COUNTY, North Carolina – FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance teams are in North Carolina visiting areas affected by Helene to help survivors apply for federal disaster assistance. (Photo Credit: FEMA)

    JONESBOROUGH, Tennessee – FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance teams assist survivors of Helene in their recovery efforts at Fender’s Farm. (Photo Credit: FEMA)

    ORANGE COUNTY, Florida – Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams register survivors for disaster assistance at the Bithlo Community Center following Hurricane Milton. (Photo Credit: FEMA) 

    FEMA’s Disaster Multimedia Toolkit page provides graphics, social media copy and sample text in multiple languages. In addition, FEMA has set up a rumor response web page to reduce confusion about its role in the Helene response. 
    annie.bond
    Thu, 10/24/2024 – 19:57

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Washington Rail Systems to Receive $115M in Infrastructure Upgrades

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington Maria Cantwell

    10.24.24

    Washington Rail Systems to Receive $115M in Infrastructure Upgrades

    Nine projects awarded include $37.7M for RR that moves Eastern WA wheat, $26.3M for Port of Kalama rail expansion to load grain exports faster; Awards also go to projects in Tacoma, Moses Lake, Chewelah, Rainier, Ferry County, and Puget Sound Rail Corridor

    SPOKANE, WA – Today, U.S. Senators Maria Cantwell (D-WA), chair of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, and Patty Murray (D-WA), chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced nine major investments in Washington state’s rail system infrastructure, totaling $115,577,598.

    The improvements will boost railroad capacity all across the state, helping move freight and agricultural products quickly and more safely between our communities and on to international markets.

    The grants come from the Federal Railroad Administration’s (FRA) Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) Program, which funds projects that improve the safety, efficiency, and reliability of intercity passenger and freight rail.

    The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) received $37,700,000 million for final design and construction of rehabilitation of the Palouse River & Coulee City Railroad (PCC). This is in addition to a $72.8 million CRISI grant for the railroad project that WSDOT received last year.

    “Wheat farmers in the state rely heavily on the Washington State Grain Train to help export 90 percent of the product they grow. This funding will replace lightweight, 100-year-old, worn rail with 34 miles of upgraded heavyweight track to accommodate heavy railcars, allowing train speeds to double, helping farmers get their goods to market more efficiently,” Sen. Cantwell said.

    “Washington state growers need fast and reliable transportation systems to get their products to market, especially if they want to compete in tough international markets—this is critical for our wheat growers and this major federal investment will help ensure Washington state farmers have the kind of infrastructure they need to succeed,” said Sen. Murray. “This is the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law at work—strengthening supply chains and upgrading our infrastructure so that America can compete and win the 21st century.”

    This PCC project is part of a multi-phase effort to improve the railroad system so it can handle heavier, faster rail cars and better withstand extreme weather conditions. Grant funding will help replace light-weight worn rail and rotten railroad ties, as well as rebuild dilapidated roadway crossings and surface tracks. Federal funds will cover 65% of the total project cost.

    The PCC serves a critical part of the wheat supply chain in Eastern Washington. This project will help ensure rural Eastern Washington agricultural products remain competitive in the global marketplace, by helping products reach customers faster. Rehabilitation of this freight corridor is important to maintain the region’s economic viability. By keeping rail shipments available and competitive, this project will reduce road maintenance, enhance economic development, improve the environment, and bring long-term jobs to rural communities.

    The Port of Kalama received $26,323,386 for a rail expansion project.

    “The Port of Kalama is already one of the largest grain export terminals on the West Coast. This funding will increase the port’s grain terminal efficiency by 25-30 percent meaning that farmers not just from Washington, but as far east as Wisconsin, can get their products to market faster,” Sen. Cantwell said.

    “These new replacement tracks are going to help the Port of Kalama transport even more goods, including grain, from rail to ship, faster than ever by allowing it to store empty trains at the port,” said Sen. Murray. “This is going to be a real boost for trade in the region, and it is exactly what the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law looks like at work—strengthening supply chains and upgrading our infrastructure so that America can compete and win the 21st century.”

    The proposed project will replace rail tracks at the Port of Kalama in Washington. The replacement tracks will support storage of two loaded and two empty trains simultaneously at the port. The project is expected to increase loading efficiency in the direct loading of grain from rail to ship by up to 30 percent. The Port of Kalama will contribute a 20 percent match. Sen. Cantwell wrote a letter in support of the project to U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg, that letter is available HERE. Sen. Murray wrote a letter of support for the project to U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg.

    The St. Paul & Pacific Northwest Railroad Company received $23,469,151 to improve track along the railroad’s main line in northeast Washington.

    “The St. Paul & Pacific Northwest railroad transports two million tons of lumber and other goods annually across Eastern Washington. With this funding, the railroad will upgrade and rehabilitate over 80 miles of mainline track, speeding products to market more safely and reliably,” Sen. Cantwell said.

    “This funding is going to help update outdated rail infrastructure that Washington state businesses and consumers rely on—this means safer, more efficient rails while creating good paying jobs,” said Sen. Murray. “This is the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law at work—strengthening supply chains and upgrading our infrastructure so that America can compete and win the 21st century.”

    The proposed project on this line between Chewelah, WA and Columbia Gardens, British Columbia, will replace approximately 18 miles (in two sections) of older jointed rail with 136 lb. continuous welded rail and install approximately 85,000 new concrete and steel rail ties along the entire line. This will upgrade the line to meet FRA Class 3 classification requirements, which improves safety and reliability. St. Paul & Pacific Northwest will contribute a 21 percent match. Sen. Cantwell wrote a letter in support of the project to Sec. Buttigieg, that letter is available HERE. Sen. Murray wrote a letter of support for the project to U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg.

    The Columbia Basin Railroad Company, which operates between Moses Lake and Connell in central Washington, received $11,552,000 to rehabilitate approximately 10 miles of their railroad line.

    “The Columbia Basin Railroad serves over 50 businesses and is a lifeline for Washington farmers and exporters across Grant, Lincoln, Spokane, Adams, and Whitman counties. This funding will facilitate critically needed track repairs which will enable increased freight capacity and operating speeds,” Sen. Cantwell said.

    “When it comes to the rails our trains travel every day—and which connect companies and communities across Washington state with crucial goods, services, and opportunities—it is important we have safe, reliable tracks,” said Sen. Murray. “By helping to replace some 8,000 cross ties, and 10 miles of rail, this funding will help us make sure the tracks serving the Columbia Basin are in tip top shape and will safely increase operating speeds and capacity. This is the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law at work—strengthening supply chains and upgrading our infrastructure so that America can compete and win the 21st century.”

    The proposed project will replace approximately ten miles of rail and approximately 8,000 cross ties on the Columbia Basin Railroad. This will enhance safety and improve system performance as the project will return the line to a state of good repair, increase operating speeds, and allow for increased capacity to move freight, benefitting over 50 customers served by the Columbia Basin Railroad. Columbia Basin Railroad will contribute a 20 percent match.

    Tacoma Rail received $8,316,000 to replace the engines of four old locomotive with new Tier 4 diesel electric engines that will reduce harmful NOx emissions by about 90 percent. This is in addition to $4.095 million the railroad received last year to replace two high-polluting diesel electric switcher locomotives with two zero-emission battery-electric switcher locomotives. Sen. Murray wrote a letter of support for the project to U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg.

    “With this grant funding, Tacoma Rail will replace the engines of four old locomotives with new clear diesel electric engines. This will reduce emissions by 200 tons per year and reduce fuel consumption by more than 18,000 gallons of diesel fuel annually. A significant step in contributing to the region’s climate action goals and reducing shipping costs for farmers,” Sen. Cantwell said.

    “This investment will help ensure we reduce carbon emissions while still moving freights as quickly and efficiently as possible—and creating good-paying jobs in the process,” said Sen. Murray. “This is the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law at work—helping us build a stronger clean energy economy while upgrading our national infrastructure.”

    Tier 0 project locomotives are equipped with diesel engines that were built between 1973 and 1992 – before the first federal EPA emission standards for locomotives were developed in 1997. The new engines will eliminate the consumption of more than 18,000 gallons of diesel fuel a year, which is expected to reduce up to 200 short tons of greenhouse gas emissions. These new locomotives will help the City of Tacoma and Port of Tacoma achieve local, county, regional, and state air quality and climate goals.

    WSDOT’s Puget Sound Rail Corridor Improvement Project received $6,451,894.25 to improve safety and help prevent winter weather delays. 

    “The Puget Sound Rail Corridor Improvement Project will upgrade rail switches between Everett and Vancouver, lowering maintenance costs and reducing weather delays for the two million passengers that ride Amtrak and Sound Transit each year,” Sen. Cantwell said.

    “I’m pleased to see this funding come back to Washington state to help keep trains running through our Puget Sound Corridor quickly, smoothly, and safely. Steps to tackle issues like eliminating gaps and preventing ice and snow build up are crucial to keep our tracks open and trains running full steam ahead—which is why this funding is so important. This is the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law at work—strengthening supply chains and upgrading our infrastructure so that America can compete and win the 21st century,” said Sen. Murray.

    The proposed project will eliminate potentially dangerous gaps between rails and install electrically powered heaters on turnouts to prevent ice and snow buildup. This will enhance resilience, safety, and performance. The Washington State Department of Transportation and BNSF will contribute a 50 percent match.

    Rainier Rail received $1,765,167 to improve four bridges in Western Washington, including the Minnesota St. Bridge in Rainier, WA.

    “Rainier Rail provides important transportation connections for goods including aircraft materials and animal feed moving through western Washington. This project will improve their track capacity and replace aging rail ties to ensure they can continue serving customers in our state,” Sen. Cantwell said.

    “This investment will help modernize existing infrastructure so that Rainier Rail can accommodate more freight, getting more goods to where they need to go more quickly,” said Sen. Murray. “This is the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law at work—strengthening supply chains and upgrading our infrastructure so that America can compete and win the 21st century.”

    The bridge improvements include replacement of structural components, increasing clearance on the Minnesota St. Bridge, installing larger rail to accommodate 286,000 lb. railcars, and replacing aging rail ties. The project will create a safer, more resilient, and environmentally sustainable rail network in the region as it will address safety concerns, environmental preservation, capacity limitations, climate resilience, and supply chain efficiency. Rainier Rail will contribute a 21 percent match.

    A portion of two other grants announced today will fund rail upgrades in Washington state.

    OmniTRAX received $50,570,400 to replace of railroad ties on four OmniTRAX-owned short lines across four states – including a line in Ferry County.

    “Kettle Falls Railroad is a strategic rail asset in Ferry County, supporting millions of dollars in economic activity in Washington state. This funding will install new ties along nearly 30 miles of rail enabling freight to move more reliably and efficiently in Northeast Washington,” Sen. Cantwell said.

    “This funding will help deliver timely infrastructure updates in Washington state—meaning safer, more efficient, and more resilient railways,” said Sen. Murray. “This is the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law at work—strengthening supply chains and upgrading our infrastructure so that America can compete and win the 21st century.”

    OmniTRAX will install 24,513 ties on approximately 29.9 miles of the KFR San Poil Subdivision near Danville, Washington. The line connects Kettle Falls to Grand Forks, Canada. The project will harden rail assets and update infrastructure, which will benefit rail users served by the short lines. OmniTRAX will contribute a 20 percent match. Sen. Cantwell wrote a letter in support of the project to Sec. Buttigieg, that letter is available HERE. Sen. Murray wrote a letter of support for the project to U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg.

    Watco Companies received $19,843,062 to replace diesel locomotives with battery electric, zero emission locomotives at their facilities, including the Packaging Corporation of America in Washington.

    “With this funding we are replacing old diesel locomotives with clean battery electric, zero emission locomotives—that helps us cut down on harmful emissions and unhealthy pollution from diesel,” said Sen. Murray. “This is the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law at work—helping us build a stronger clean energy economy while upgrading our national infrastructure.”

    The U.S. Department of Transportation is providing $2.477 billion in CRISI grants to 122 projects across the nation this year.

    Sen. Cantwell secured $5 billion over 5 years for the CRISI program in her Surface Transportation Investment Act which was included in the 2021 Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, tripling annual funding for the program.

    The funding for the CRISI program comes from a mixture of annual appropriations and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law—as Senate Appropriations Chair, Sen. Murray authors the annual appropriations bills and, as then Assistant Majority Leader, she played a critical role in passing the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Sen. Murray secured a total of $2.97 billion for the Federal Railroad Administration in the fiscal year 2024 government funding bill she negotiated and passed into law and set aside $100,000,000 specifically for the competitive CRISI grants.

    Sen. Murray also passed into law major reforms and oversight provisions to address the rail safety deficiencies identified in the East Palestine, Ohio, train derailment, providing a $27.3 million increase for FRA’s safety and operations budget for rail safety inspectors in the Fiscal Year 2024 government funding bills. Murray also included language directing specific research requirements for: (1) wayside detection technology, operational alert thresholds, and rail carrier response protocols to inform and verify the technologies capabilities and establish industry-wide standards; and (2) long-train operational safety to evaluate equipment safety standards for brake systems and wheel performance to inform the development of continuous component monitoring. Sen. Murray also increased funding for the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration’s (PHMSA) emergency preparedness grants to $46.825 million and required the agency to conduct research to improve the survivability of placards identifying hazardous materials on trains. Sen. Murray is currently negotiating and working to pass into law Fiscal Year 2025 funding bills and the Senate funding bill Sen. Murray passed out of committee builds on these efforts to improve rail safety and strengthen rail safety funding.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Liberals back profiteering private insurers over public hospitals

    Source: New South Wales Ministerial News

    Published: 25 October 2024

    Released by: Treasurer, Minister for Health


    The NSW Government has passed legislation addressing the refusal of private insurers to pay their bills in public hospitals.

    The refusal of the country’s biggest private health funds to pay the correct single room rate has been robbing public hospitals of $140 million each year.

    The bill passed the Legislative Council 21 to 17 with the support of the Greens, the Shooters, Fishers and Farmers, the Animal Justice Party and the Legalise Cannabis Party.

    In the Legislative Assembly it passed 50 to 31 with the backing of six of the eight independents who voted, and the Greens.

    The result means the Leader of the Opposition led a vote against the very same legislation he backed a decade ago.

    In 2013, Liberal Leader Mark Speakman supported then-Treasurer Mike Baird’s bill to amend the Health Insurance Levy.

    This achieved an agreement from the private insurers to pay their fair share.

    However in 2019 the major funds began walking away from that agreement, and since then have doubled their profits.

    Mr Baird’s 2013 legislation was supported by NSW Labor in a united effort to ensure the big private health insurers paid their bills.

    But the Liberal Party’s opposition signals that under Mr Speakman’s leadership, private insurers can walk away from their bills with no recourse.

    The Opposition Leader, the Shadow Treasurer and the Member for Vaucluse must explain why they believe wealthy private insurers don’t have to play by the same rules as hard-working families across NSW and pay their bills.

    The NSW Government remains open to dialogue with major insurers to resolve the issue.

    The Government applauds the majority of non-profit private health funds, including Teachers Health, Nurses and Midwives Health and Emergency Service Health, who continue to pay the correct rate.   

    Treasurer Daniel Mookhey said:

    “Mike Baird was right in 2013 when he demanded insurers pay their fair share and a decade later, we are right to reinforce that agreement.

    “Premiums didn’t go down when the big insurers stopped paying their bills.  They shouldn’t threaten families with an increase now. The big insurers can still resolve this impasse by simply paying their bills.

    “The Government thanks those on the cross benches in both houses who supported this bill.”

    Minister for Health Ryan Park said:

    “All we’re asking is that private health insurers pay their fair share of their use of public hospital beds.

    “Every day they don’t, it’s costing the state over $338,000 – every single day.

    “It is so emblematic of the current Liberal Opposition that they refuse to support the very same bill they proposed when they were confronted with this very same set of circumstances.

    “It is so symptomatic of this Liberal Opposition which no longer knows what it stands for, completely devoid of conviction.”

    MIL OSI News

  • MIL-OSI Australia: 232-2024: New identity check process for cats and dogs on the UK travelling to Australia

    Source: Australia Government Statements – Agriculture

    25 October 2024

    Who does this notice affect?

    Stakeholders associated with the import of live cats and dogs (including assistance dogs) from the United Kingdom (UK) to Australian territory, including importers, pet transport agents, and official and government-approved veterinarians.

    What has changed?

    A…

    MIL OSI News

  • MIL-OSI China: Harvest season of late rice begins in south China

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

    Harvest season of late rice begins in south China

    Updated: October 25, 2024 09:06 Xinhua
    Actors perform at an event celebrating harvest in Tiandeng County, south China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Oct. 23, 2024. Many places in Guangxi ushered in the harvest season of late rice. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Actors perform at an event celebrating harvest in Tiandeng County, south China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Oct. 23, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
    An aerial drone photo taken on Oct. 24, 2024 shows villagers harvesting rice in a field in Tiandeng County, south China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. [Photo/Xinhua]
    A drone photo shows actors performing at an event celebrating harvest in Tiandeng County, south China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Oct. 23, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
    An aerial drone photo taken on Oct. 24, 2024 shows rice fields in Tiandeng County, south China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. [Photo/Xinhua]
    An aerial drone photo taken on Oct. 24, 2024 shows a harvester working in a rice field in Tiandeng County, south China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Actors perform at an event celebrating harvest in Tiandeng County, south China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Oct. 23, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
    An aerial drone photo taken on Oct. 24, 2024 shows rice fields in Tiandeng County, south China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Farmers air rice in Jinjie Town of Tiandeng County, south China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Oct. 24, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
    An aerial drone photo taken on Oct. 24, 2024 shows rice fields in Tiandeng County, south China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. [Photo/Xinhua]
    An aerial drone photo shows actors performing at an event celebrating harvest in Tiandeng County, south China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Oct. 23, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI China: Harvest season of cotton starts in Aksu, China’s Xinjiang

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

    Harvest season of cotton starts in Aksu, China’s Xinjiang

    Updated: October 25, 2024 09:37 Xinhua
    A cotton picker operates in a field in Awat County of Aksu, northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Oct. 24, 2024. The harvest season of cotton has started in Awat. Thanks to efforts in the construction of high-standard farmland, the entire cotton planting process, which ranges from sowing to harvesting, has been fully mechanized in the county. [Photo/Xinhua]
    A drone photo shows a cotton picker operating in a field in Awat County of Aksu, northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Oct. 24, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
    A drone photo shows a cotton picker operating in a field in Awat County of Aksu, northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Oct. 24, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Farmers check the growth of cotton in a field in Awat County of Aksu, northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Oct. 24, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
    This photo shows a cotton field in Awat County of Aksu, northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Oct. 24, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
    A loader lifts a bundle of newly harvested cotton in a field in Awat County of Aksu, northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Oct. 24, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
    A cotton picker drops a bundle of newly harvested cotton in a field in Awat County of Aksu, northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Oct. 24, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
    This photo shows bundles of newly harvested cotton in a field in Awat County of Aksu, northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Oct. 24, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI China: Shanghai opens annual Lujiazui Coffee Festival

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    Shanghai continues to lead China’s coffee market with 9,553 coffee shops, officials announced during a news conference on Wednesday at the opening of the Lujiazui Coffee Festival in Pudong New Area.

    Jin Wencheng, director of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs’ rural economy research center, released the Global Coffee Industry Development Trends Insight Report and related index at the event, highlighting that China’s annual coffee consumption reached 280,000 metric tons last year, with customers patronizing approximately 157,000 coffee shops nationwide.

    Jointly launched by the China Media Group Shanghai Bureau — the financial program center of CMG — and the research center, the report further pointed out that the value of the coffee industry in China reached 265.4 billion yuan ($37.3 billion) in 2023, an increase of over 30 percent year-on-year. The number of coffee consumers in the country is close to 400 million.

    “The Chinese coffee market has seen significant expansion, emerging as a standout in the global coffee industry,” Jin said, adding that the report and index are constructed based on three key dimensions: industry scale, development quality and industry resilience.

    China’s coffee production increased from 114,000 tons in 2020 to 146,000 tons last year, the report noted. Yunnan province accounts for 98 percent of the national output, making it the primary coffee-producing region in China.

    “Refinement and branding are leading the high-quality development of the domestic coffee industry in China,” said Jin, noting that the proportion of premium domestic coffee products has significantly increased, reaching 22.7 percent this year.

    “Domestic coffee brands are rapidly emerging, and the fusion of coffee culture with tourism has become a new business model,” Jin added.

    On a global scale, coffee production has shown a growth recovery, according to the report.

    Last year, global coffee consumption reached 10.62 million tons, marking a 2.2 percent increase from the previous year, with a total daily consumption of 3 billion cups of coffee.

    Apart from the emerging market in China, countries and regions such as Brazil, the Philippines and South Korea are also experiencing rapid growth in coffee consumption.

    The bustling crowd of coffee enthusiasts at the Lujiazui Coffee Festival — the news conference venue — attests to the fervor of the coffee market.

    Shanghai, which has more coffee shops than any city in China, launched the ninth edition of the coffee festival on Wednesday, which will run until Oct 27.

    Taking place at Shanghai’s Lujiazui Central Greenland, the festival brings together over 260 selected brands, more than 100 boutique coffee shops and over 20 influencers from the industry hailing from over 70 cities worldwide. It serves as a platform for the exchange of creative ideas and the exhibition of the latest coffee-related products.

    Manhattan Coffee Roasters from Rotterdam, Netherlands; Ghostbird Coffee Roastery from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; and Proud Mary Coffee Roasters from Melbourne, Australia, are among the 12 international specialty coffee brands that are making their domestic debut at the festival.

    Since its inception in 2016, the festival has become a benchmark cultural experience in the coffee industry in China, drawing the cumulative participation of over 850,000 people.

    “As the brand influence of the Lujiazui Coffee Festival continues to grow, it will not only bring more global coffee flavors to Pudong, but also explore new pathways for Chinese domestic coffee to enter the international market,” said Chen Bai, director of the festival.

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI USA: 10.24.2024 ICYMI: Sen. Cruz Receives Recognition for Pivotal Bipartisan Victory, Championing South Texas Economy

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Texas Ted Cruz

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – In Case You Missed It: U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Ranking Member of the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, was honored yesterday by the city of Laredo and awarded the Key to the City for his leadership in streamlining the presidential permitting process and securing presidential permits to build and expand four major international bridges in South Texas, including two in Laredo. Read the articles below:

    From Texas Border Business: Sen. Ted Cruz’s Leadership Secured Approval for Four International Bridges
    “In a remarkable display of bipartisan cooperation and a commitment to advancing the interests of South Texas, U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Ranking Member of the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, has achieved a significant legislative victory, securing the approval for four international bridges. This achievement was celebrated in Laredo, Texas, where Cruz was honored with the Keys to the City by Mayor Dr. Victor D. Treviño. The event was momentous for the Laredo community and the region’s future prosperity.
    “Mayor Treviño, in his heartfelt presentation, said, ‘The City of Laredo hereby presents the key of the City of Laredo to the United States Senator Ted Cruz, Senator from Texas, for supporting the Laredo community with historic legislation that advances international trade and ensures future prosperity.’ These words underscored the city’s recognition of Cruz’s pivotal role in championing Laredo’s economic and infrastructural future.
    “Taking to the podium, Senator Ted Cruz expressed his deep gratitude: ‘Mayor, thank you very much. I am incredibly honored and humbled to receive the key to the city—an incredible distinction from an amazing place in Texas. I have to say I love South Texas. I love the city of Laredo. It is an incredible hub of commerce, an incredible port to the entire world.’ Cruz’s admiration for the region is evident, but his dedication to improving its infrastructure is even more profound.”

    From KGNS News: Laredo hosts trade talks with Sen. Cruz, federal, and international leaders

    From Laredo Morning Times: Laredo presents ‘long overdue’ Key to the City to Sen. Ted Cruz
    “Cruz gave a brief speech after receiving the honor and spoke about working together on four new bridges in South Texas: two in Laredo, one in Eagle Pass and one in Brownsville.
    “‘They were delaying those bridges for three, four, five years,’ Cruz said. ‘A delegation from the city of Laredo asked me to help, asked me to lead the effort, and I told them I was proud to do so.’ …
    “Cruz said the legislation could help Texas farmers, ranchers, small businesses and consumers. He briefly mentioned another bipartisan effort involving Interstate Highway 27, which would start in Laredo and extend to Montana.”

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: President Lai and Vice President Hsiao attend opening of Presidential Office Building permanent and special exhibitions

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    President Lai and Vice President Hsiao attend opening of Presidential Office Building permanent and special exhibitions
    President Lai and Vice President Hsiao attend opening of Presidential Office Building permanent and special exhibitions
    2024-10-19

    On the morning of October 19, President Lai Ching-te and Vice President Bi-khim Hsiao attended the opening of the Presidential Office Building’s all-new permanent exhibition, Together as One with Taiwan: The Ark of Democracy, and special exhibition, Super Taiwan Comics! The Flavors of Taiwan in Ink. In remarks, President Lai stated that the permanent exhibition, with the theme “Ark of Democracy,” has cross-disciplinary, cross-generational, and “cross-universe” features, and symbolizes how the people of Taiwan are all navigators of this Ark. He said that we will continue guiding the nation forward together with democracy and unity, and welcomed the public to visit the exhibition. Vice President Hsiao, in remarks, stated that the public can gain a deeper understanding of the historical context of the office as well as of the development of Taiwan through several eras.
    In his remarks, President Lai stated that the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) was born on September 28, 1986 in order to achieve democracy. Over its journey, he said, the DPP has worked together with the Taiwanese people, not just to break free from restrictions on political parties and the media, end martial law, call to abolish Article 100 of the Criminal Code, and achieve 100 percent freedom of speech, but also to tirelessly promote direct presidential elections and the complete re-election of the legislature, helping Taiwan shift from authoritarian rule to democracy.
    The president said that in 2000, the DPP took office for the first time, opening the Presidential Office Building to the public for weekday tours. This, he said, fully represents the spirit of democracy, as democracy is rule by the people, and the Presidential Office Building is not just the workplace of the president, vice president, and other staff. Its property rights belong to the whole body of citizens, he said, and citizens have the right to enter the Presidential Office Building and learn more about its architecture as well as Taiwan’s past.
    President Lai indicated that former President Tsai Ing-wen took the opening up of the Presidential Office Building even further by installing a permanent exhibition, similarly upholding the democratic spirit, and helping the public understand the significance of democracy on an even deeper level. The theme of the previous exhibition, he said, was “Power to the People,” while the theme of the new permanent exhibition, “Ark of Democracy,” envisions democratic Taiwan as an ark on the Pacific Ocean, with peace as our lighthouse; democracy as our compass; freedom, human rights, and the rule of law as our banners; culture and ecological sustainability as our hull; and technology as our driving force. The president said that the people of Taiwan are all navigators of this Ark, and we work together to guide a course of engagement with the world and usher in the future – these are the key concepts of the Ark of Democracy’s curation.
    President Lai expressed that the exhibition has three major features. First, he said, it is cross-disciplinary, introducing Taiwan’s rich natural ecology and technological achievements, showing that Taiwan is a diverse ark of ecology, technology, culture, and democracy. Second, he said, it is cross-generational, displaying not only images of the former presidents, but also exhibiting the history of Taiwan’s semiconductor development, civil movements, and democratization, and even explaining the architectural history of the Presidential Office Building in the first-floor corridors. The president said that members of the public who come to visit will be able to clearly understand that Taiwan’s achievements are hard-won and worth cherishing, and that we should unite all the more closely for even greater accomplishments.
    President Lai went on to say that the exhibition’s third feature is being “cross-universe,” with one of the exhibits utilizing AI technology to generate multiple universes showing what the world might look like without Taiwan, presenting the technical and futuristic aspects of AI as well as the importance of Taiwan. We will transform Taiwan into an AI island, he said, and this is the first time that AI applications have featured in an exhibition at the Presidential Office Building.
    President Lai then remarked on the rich variety of the exhibition content, and thanked the Ministry of Economic Affairs, Ministry of Culture (MOC), Ministry of Agriculture, Ministry of the Interior, and Ministry of Transportation and Communications, whose ministers or deputy ministers were also at the event, for their support. He also offered his gratitude to the staff of the General Association of Chinese Culture for their hard work and dedication, which successfully brought the all-new permanent exhibition to completion.
    In addition to the permanent exhibition, the president noted, the MOC has organized Super Taiwan Comics! The Flavors of Taiwan in Ink, a special exhibition that showcases the abundant and diverse creativity in Taiwan’s world of comics. In that world, he said, one can see a different perspective of Taiwan, which is equally admirable. The president, who would soon tour the exhibition with those present, pointed out that at the end of the exhibition there is a photo booth. He welcomed exhibition-goers to have pictures taken with images of him and the vice president and to share them with friends on Facebook or Instagram.
    In closing, President Lai again welcomed the people of Taiwan to visit the Together as One with Taiwan: The Ark of Democracy permanent exhibition. All the people of Taiwan, the president emphasized, have the right to visit the Presidential Office Building. He stated that we are all navigators of this Ark of Democracy, and that we will continue guiding the nation forward together with democracy and unity.
    Vice President Hsiao then delivered remarks, saying that she is very happy to be with President Lai at today’s “unboxing” of the Presidential Office Building’s permanent exhibition. From the inauguration on May 20 to today, she said, many of our fellow Taiwanese have been asking when they would be able to visit and take pictures at the Presidential Office Building again. She said she is sure that everyone is very much looking forward to visiting, as the building belongs to the whole body of citizens, just as President Lai had said, one that has its own history and bears the important vestiges of our continued pursuit of progress.
    Vice President Hsiao remarked that the exhibition is very diverse in content, spanning ecology, democracy, international affairs, technology, and civil movements. Moreover, she emphasized, it showcases Taiwan’s spirit of resilience. The exhibition also goes into the history of the Presidential Office Building and has displays of important laws and objects, she noted, adding that the public can visit and gain a deeper understanding of the historical context of the office as well as of the development of Taiwan through several eras.
    Vice President Hsiao pointed out that the “Ark of Democracy” of the title implies that we are all in the same boat. When our international friends visit, she said, they see that even though the island of Taiwan is small, it is home to a diversity of opinions and positions, and that our people are in the end able to find common ground and move forward together. She stated that because we are all in the same boat, we must work together.
    Noting that Taiwan’s industry landscape is very diverse, Vice President Hsiao said that this exhibition presents the historical context surrounding the development of our world-renowned high-tech industry. She also underscored how it showcases the people of various sectors and professions who have worked together so that the Taiwanese people can live in peace and happiness and the nation can become even greater.
    Vice President Hsiao said that Taiwan has a very diverse ecology. Even though this Ark is very small, when our international friends come here, she said, they notice that Taiwan has mountains, is surrounded by the ocean, and that getting from the coast to a mountain and back again can take as little as 20 to 30 minutes. She pointed out that this diverse ecology is also seen in our Ark of Democracy, which bears the nation’s beauty and its sorrow, as well as its people’s dreams and future. She said she is looking forward to “unboxing” the exhibition with President Lai and the ministry leaders moments from now, but that she is also looking forward to the people of Taiwan taking the time to walk through the Presidential Office Building and share in the glory of our history and Taiwan’s democracy. 
    Following their remarks, President Lai and Vice President Hsiao took a tour of the exhibits, “Welcome Aboard the Ark of Democracy,” “Presidents of the Republic of China (Taiwan),” “Ecological Treasure Island,” “The Invisible Backbone of Global Technology,” “Taiwan’s Vibrant Democracy, Moving Forward with the World,” “Become One with Us,” and “The Ark Sails Onward,” and the special exhibition of contemporary Taiwan comics, taking in the unique highlights of each area.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Proposal for a revision of Regulation (EU) No 1169/2011 – E-002165/2024

    Source: European Parliament

    18.10.2024

    Question for written answer  E-002165/2024
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Kathleen Funchion (The Left)

    The Commission had been expected to publish its proposal for a revision of Regulation (EU) No 1169/2011 on the provision of food information to consumers[1] in the second quarter of 2022, following on from its 2020 communication entitled ‘A Farm to Fork Strategy for a fair, healthy and environmentally-friendly food system’[2].

    • 1.Will the Commission publish this proposal and, if not, why not?
    • 2.Does the Commission agree that failure to publish undermines the European Green Deal and the EU’s biodiversity strategy for 2030, as the farm to fork strategy is a key element of both?

    Submitted: 18.10.2024

    • [1] http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2011/1169/oj.
    • [2] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=celex:52020DC0381.
    Last updated: 24 October 2024

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI Europe: EU paves the way for investments in Timor-Leste’s water, waste, and forestry sectors, boosting the country’s sustainable development

    Source: European Investment Bank

    EIB

    • The EU-funded programme has supported the Government of Timor-Leste in identifying and preparing potential investment projects.
    • These projects have been identified in the sectors of forestry, water supply, and waste management, and were presented today as ready for financing, with a total investment need of approximately €260 million.
    • EIB Global is ready to assess these projects for financing.

     The European Union Delegation to Timor-Leste and the European Investment Bank (EIB Global) have worked closely with the Government of Timor-Leste to prepare investment projects aimed at improving the country’s infrastructure and fostering sustainable development. The three proposals resulting from this collaboration focus on water supply, solid waste management, and forestry, and are now ready to be transformed into tangible investments.

    The three projects include a commercial forestry initiative in the municipalities of Covalima and Bobonaro, a national solid waste management project including a health waste management component, and a water supply project for selected municipalities. The forestry project aims to transform underutilised state lands, generating essential resources like firewood and timber, while creating thousands of jobs for local communities. The national waste management project introduces solutions for the safe and efficient management of waste thus reducing significantly the pollution discharged into the environment. The water supply project focuses on improving access to clean water in key municipalities, addressing both urban and rural needs for better sanitation and reliable water sources. Together these initiatives require a total investment of about €260 million.

    The preparation of the three investment projects was made possible through the Project Preparation and Implementation Programme (PPIP), which concluded today with the final Steering Committee meeting where these projects were presented. Managed by EIB Global, the PPIP was supported by a €5 million budget, including €4.75 million in technical assistance from the EU and €250,000 from the Cotonou Partnership Agreement.

    The final Steering Committee meeting was chaired by H.E. the Minister for Planning and Strategic Investments, Gastão Francisco de Sousa, and attended by representatives from the Government of Timor-Leste, EIB Global, the EU Delegation to Timor-Leste, and other stakeholders.

    The Ambassador to the European Union Delegation to Timor-Leste, Mr Marc Fiedrich said: “If converted into a loan, the Project Preparation and Implementation Programme opens a new era of cooperation. Until today, our support, although significant in terms of funds, consisted of limited instruments: grants, technical assistance, and budget support. With this programme, we add loans and guarantees, and maybe later private investments. This is the new trend of cooperation promoted by the EU, the innovative Global Gateway strategy that may become the norm in the near future.”

    The Vice-President of the European Investment Bank Ambroise Fayolle said: “Alongside our EU partners on the ground, we have been supporting the Government of Timor-Leste in identifying and preparing investment projects. By focusing on strategic sectors such as forestry, water supply, and waste management, these initiatives will not only address immediate community needs but also lay the groundwork for sustainable economic growth. We look forward to turning these project proposals into tangible investments. As the EU’s financial arm, the EIB stands ready to provide the necessary financial support to make these projects a reality, in line with the EU’s Global Gateway strategy.”

    His Excellency the Minister for Planning and Strategic Investments, Gastão Francisco de Sousa said: “All three projects have the potential to make significant and long-term contributions to Timor-Leste’s development, and to improved rural and urban environments. The projects comply with and support our national development objectives for their respective sectors.” He emphasised the role of the Ministry of Planning and Strategic Investments in facilitating and coordinating efforts across the sectors.

    His Excellency the Minister of Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries and Forestry, Marcos da Cruz said: “I would like to thank the EIB, the EU Delegation and COWI for the design of the Timor-Leste Commercial Forestry Project. We welcome this innovative approach to the development of commercial forestry in Timor-Leste, using currently unproductive land. In addition, the project is expected to provide jobs for people living in the target areas, re-green vulnerable areas, increase incomes from forest products, and increase Government’s income.”

    His Excellency the Minister of State Administration, Tomás do Rosário Cabral said: “We are grateful for the European Investment Bank’s support for waste management projects. Providing adequate and affordable waste services to the entire population is of great concern for the Government. It will improve public health and is much needed for protecting the terrestrial and marine environment. Specifically, better healthcare risk waste management is urgently needed. In this respect, the EIB project proposal provides a modern, efficient, and sustainable solution that should be implemented as soon as possible.”

    Background information:

    Project Preparation and Implementation Programme (PPIP) is an EU-funded and EIB-managed project designed to assist the Government of Timor-Leste in the identifying, preparing and implementing projects that are technically sound, financially viable, and environmentally and socially responsible, and are ready for investments. The programme has identified potential projects in the three sectors — water, solid waste management and forestry — by conducting prefeasibility studies for six projects and completing three feasibility studies. Investment projects in forestry and solid waste are now ready for the Government of Timor-Leste to request loan from the EIB and EU grant funding, should they choose to move forward with these initiatives.

    Steering Committee of the Project Preparation and Implementation Programme is chaired by the Ministry for Planning and Strategic Investments. The committee also includes representatives from several key government entities of Timor-Leste, such as by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation, the Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of State Administration, the Ministry of Public Works, the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries and Forestry and Bee Timor-Leste public utility company.

    The European Union (EU) is a unique economic and political union between 27 European countries that cover much of the continent together. In Timor-Leste, the EU is the second largest donor of development aid (grant funding). The EU is committed to supporting Timor-Leste’s 2011-2030 Strategic Development plan, which aims to transform Timor-Leste into an upper-middle-income country by 2030 based on rapid, inclusive growth enabling it to improve infrastructure, worker skills, education, training and health systems, and combat poverty and malnutrition. The EU assistance focuses on green and sustainable economic recovery and development, rural development, good governance for sustainable development and gender equality.

    The European Investment Bank (EIB) is the long-term financing institution of the European Union owned by its Member States. EIB Global is the EIB’s specialised arm devoted to increasing the impact of international partnerships and development finance outside the European Union. EIB Global is a key partner of the EU Global Gateway strategy, and is designed to foster strong, focused partnerships within Team Europe, alongside fellow development finance institutions and civil society. EIB Global brings the EIB closer to local people, companies and institutions through our offices across the world.

    Global Gateway is the European Union’s strategy to reduce the worldwide investment gap, boost smart, clean and secure connections in the digital, energy and transport sectors, and strengthen health, education and research systems. The Global Gateway strategy embodies a Team Europe approach that brings together the European Union, EU Member States and European development finance institutions. It aims to mobilise up to €300 billion in public and private investments between 2021 and 2027, creating essential links rather than dependencies, and closing the global investment gap.

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Minutes – Wednesday, 23 October 2024 – Strasbourg – Final edition

    Source: European Parliament

    PV-10-2024-10-23

    EN

    EN

    iPlPv_Sit

    Minutes
    Wednesday, 23 October 2024 – Strasbourg

    IN THE CHAIR: Sabine VERHEYEN
    Vice-President

    1. Opening of the sitting

    The sitting opened at 09:00.


    2. Managing migration in an effective and holistic way through fostering returns (debate)

    Commission statement: Managing migration in an effective and holistic way through fostering returns (2024/2882(RSP))

    Helena Dalli (Member of the Commission) made the statement.

    The following spoke: Tomas Tobé, on behalf of the PPE Group, Iratxe García Pérez, on behalf of the S&D Group, Kinga Gál, on behalf of the PfE Group, Nicola Procaccini, on behalf of the ECR Group, Valérie Hayer, on behalf of the Renew Group, Tineke Strik, on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group, Estrella Galán, on behalf of The Left Group, Sarah Knafo, on behalf of the ESN Group, Jeroen Lenaers, Ana Catarina Mendes, who also answered a blue-card question from João Oliveira, Marieke Ehlers, Jadwiga Wiśniewska, Malik Azmani, Diana Riba i Giner, Ilaria Salis, who also declined to take blue-card questions from Susanna Ceccardi and Anna Maria Cisint, Mary Khan, Erik Kaliňák, Lena Düpont, who also answered a blue-card question from András László, Cecilia Strada, Jean-Paul Garraud, Assita Kanko, Fabienne Keller, who also declined to take a blue-card question from Fabrice Leggeri, Erik Marquardt, Konstantinos Arvanitis, Monika Beňová, Dolors Montserrat, Matjaž Nemec, Paolo Borchia, who also answered a blue-card question from Maria Grapini, Charlie Weimers, Abir Al-Sahlani, who also answered a blue-card question from Rihards Kols, Ignazio Roberto Marino, Siegfried Mureşan, Jorge Buxadé Villalba, Elena Yoncheva, Elissavet Vozemberg-Vrionidi, Tom Vandendriessche, Rasa Juknevičienė, Harald Vilimsky, François-Xavier Bellamy, who also answered a blue-card question from Malika Sorel, Paulo Cunha, Bartłomiej Sienkiewicz and Loránt Vincze.

    The following spoke under the catch-the-eye procedure: Paulius Saudargas, Juan Fernando López Aguilar, Susanna Ceccardi, Sebastian Tynkkynen, Hilde Vautmans and João Oliveira.

    IN THE CHAIR: Sophie WILMÈS
    Vice-President

    The following spoke under the catch-the-eye procedure: Lukas Sieper, Matej Tonin and Vytenis Povilas Andriukaitis.

    The following spoke: Helena Dalli.

    The debate closed.


    3. Tackling the steel crisis: boosting competitive and sustainable European steel and maintaining quality jobs (debate)

    Commission statement: Tackling the steel crisis: boosting competitive and sustainable European steel and maintaining quality jobs (2024/2883(RSP))

    Helena Dalli (Member of the Commission) made the statement.

    The following spoke: Christian Ehler, on behalf of the PPE Group, Dan Nica, on behalf of the S&D Group, Paolo Borchia, on behalf of the PfE Group, Daniel Obajtek, on behalf of the ECR Group, Christophe Grudler, on behalf of the Renew Group, Terry Reintke, on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group, Martin Schirdewan, on behalf of The Left Group, René Aust, on behalf of the ESN Group, Juan Ignacio Zoido Álvarez, Estelle Ceulemans, Ondřej Knotek, Elena Donazzan, Brigitte van den Berg, Sara Matthieu, Rudi Kennes, Marcin Sypniewski, Adam Jarubas, Jens Geier, Anna Bryłka, Anna Zalewska, Marie-Pierre Vedrenne, Dennis Radtke, Raphaël Glucksmann, Tom Berendsen, Giorgio Gori, Letizia Moratti, Elena Sancho Murillo, Radan Kanev, Eero Heinäluoma, Johan Danielsson and Idoia Mendia, who also answered a blue-card question from Bogdan Rzońca.

    The following spoke under the catch-the-eye procedure: Susana Solís Pérez, Jadwiga Wiśniewska, Michał Kobosko, Branislav Ondruš, Massimiliano Salini, Michele Picaro, Kateřina Konečná, Manuela Ripa, Sebastian Tynkkynen, Seán Kelly, Ondřej Krutílek, Diego Solier and Mirosława Nykiel.

    The following spoke: Helena Dalli.

    The debate closed.

    (The sitting was suspended at 11:57.)


    IN THE CHAIR: Roberta METSOLA
    President

    4. Resumption of the sitting

    The sitting resumed at 12:03.


    5. Statement by the President

    The President made a statement to mark the 68th anniversary of the Hungarian Uprising of 1956. She paid tribute to the victims and to those who had suffered under Soviet oppression.

    The following spoke: Ondřej Knotek and Peter Liese (the President made some clarifications).


    6. Voting time

    For detailed results, see also ‘Results of votes’ and ‘Results of roll-call votes’.


    6.1. Deforestation Regulation: provisions relating to the date of application ***I (vote)

    Proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council amending Regulation (EU) 2023/1115 as regards provisions relating to the date of application [COM(2024)0452 – C10-0119/2024 – 2024/0249(COD)] – ENVI Committee

    REQUEST FOR AN URGENT DECISION from the ENVI Committee (Rule 170(6))

    Parliament approved the request for urgent procedure.

    The following tabling deadlines had been set:
    – amendments: Wednesday 6 November 2024 at 13:00
    – requests for separate votes and split votes: Thursday 12 November 2024 at 16:00.

    Vote: at a later part-session.


    6.2. Draft general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2025 all sections (vote)

    (Majority of Parliament’s component Members required)

    DRAFT AMENDMENTS

    (The draft amendments adopted would appear as an annex to the Texts Adopted)

    The following had spoken:

    After the vote, Péter Benő Banai (President-in-Office of the Council) had noted the differences between the positions of Parliament and of the Council and had agreed to the President’s convening of the Conciliation Committee in accordance with Article 314(4)(c) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union.

    (‘Results of votes’, item 1)


    6.3. General budget of the European Union for the financial year 2025 – all sections (vote)

    Report on the Council position on the draft general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2025 [12084/2024 – C10-0099/2024 – 2024/0176(BUD)] – Committee on Budgets. Rapporteurs: Victor Negrescu and Niclas Herbst (A10-0008/2024)

    (Majority of the votes cast)

    MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION

    Rejected

    The following had spoken:

    Before the vote, Victor Negrescu (rapporteur) on the basis of Rule 189(4).

    Leila Chaibi, to move an oral amendment to paragraph 68. Parliament had not agreed to put the oral amendment to the vote as more than 39 Members had opposed it.

    (‘Results of votes’, item 2)


    6.4. Guidelines for the employment policies of the Member States * (vote)

    Report on the proposal for a Council decision on guidelines for the employment policies of the Member States [COM(2024)0599 – C10-0084/2024 – 2024/0599(NLE)] – Committee on Employment and Social Affairs. Rapporteur: Li Andersson (A10-0004/2024)

    (Majority of the votes cast)

    COMMISSION PROPOSAL

    Approved as amended (P10_TA(2024)0027)

    (‘Results of votes’, item 3)


    6.5. Urgent need to revise the Medical Devices Regulation (vote)

    Motions for resolutions RC-B9-0123/2024/REV1, B10-0121/2024, B10-0122/2024, B10-0123/2024, B10-0124/2024, B10-0125/2024, B10-0126/2024, B10-0127/2024 and B10-0128/2024 (minutes of 23.10.2023, item I) (2024/2849(RSP))

    The debate had taken place on 9 October 2024 (minutes of 9.10.2024, item 15).

    (Majority of the votes cast)

    JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION

    Adopted (P10_TA(2024)0028)

    (Motions for resolutions B10-0121/2024, B10-0122/2024 and B10-0127/2024 fell.)

    (‘Results of votes’, item 4)

    (The sitting was suspended at 12:53.)


    IN THE CHAIR: Roberts ZĪLE
    Vice-President

    7. Resumption of the sitting

    The sitting resumed at 12:56.


    8. Approval of the minutes of the previous sitting

    The minutes of the previous sitting were approved.


    9. Continued war crimes committed by the Russian Federation, notably killing Ukrainian prisoners of war (debate)

    Commission statement: Continued war crimes committed by the Russian Federation, notably killing Ukrainian prisoners of war (2024/2897(RSP))

    Didier Reynders (Member of the Commission) made the statement.

    The following spoke: Sandra Kalniete, on behalf of the PPE Group, Chloé Ridel, on behalf of the S&D Group, Tomasz Buczek, on behalf of the PfE Group, Adam Bielan, on behalf of the ECR Group, Petras Auštrevičius, on behalf of the Renew Group, and Sergey Lagodinsky, on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group.

    The following spoke: Didier Reynders.

    The following spoke: Lukas Sieper on the allocation of speaking time in the debate (the President made some clarifications).

    The debate closed.


    10. U-turn on EU bureaucracy: the need to axe unnecessary burdens and reporting to unleash competitiveness and innovation (topical debate)

    The following spoke: Jörgen Warborn to open the debate proposed by the PPE Group.

    The following spoke: Helena Dalli (Member of the Commission).

    The following spoke: Markus Ferber, on behalf of the PPE Group, René Repasi, on behalf of the S&D Group, Klara Dostalova, on behalf of the PfE Group, Antonella Sberna, on behalf of the ECR Group, Stéphanie Yon-Courtin, on behalf of the Renew Group, Jutta Paulus, on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group, Jussi Saramo, on behalf of The Left Group, Milan Uhrík, on behalf of the ESN Group, Tom Berendsen, Lara Wolters, Vilis Krištopans, Kosma Złotowski, Svenja Hahn, Kim Van Sparrentak, Stanislav Stoyanov, Branislav Ondruš, Christine Schneider, Lina Gálvez, Ondřej Knotek, Stephen Nikola Bartulica, João Cotrim De Figueiredo, Marie Toussaint, Anja Arndt and Katarína Roth Neveďalová.

    IN THE CHAIR: Younous OMARJEE
    Vice-President

    The following spoke: Lídia Pereira, Nikos Papandreou, Raffaele Stancanelli, Stefano Cavedagna, Katri Kulmuni, Mirosława Nykiel, Tiemo Wölken, Julie Rechagneux, Ľudovít Ódor, Aura Salla, Jorge Martín Frías, Angelika Niebler, Susanna Ceccardi, Isabella Tovaglieri and Barbara Bonte.

    The following spoke: Helena Dalli.

    The debate closed.


    11. Presentation of the Court of Auditors’ annual report 2023 (debate)

    Presentation of the Court of Auditors’ annual report 2023 (2024/2784(RSP))

    Tony Murphy (President of the Court of Auditors) made the presentation.

    The following spoke: Helena Dalli (Member of the Commission).

    The following spoke: Tomáš Zdechovský, on behalf of the PPE Group, José Cepeda, on behalf of the S&D Group, Csaba Dömötör, on behalf of the PfE Group, Dick Erixon, on behalf of the ECR Group, Olivier Chastel, on behalf of the Renew Group, Daniel Freund, on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group, Jonas Sjöstedt, on behalf of The Left Group, Niclas Herbst, Giuseppe Lupo, Virginie Joron, Marco Squarta, Joachim Streit, Giuseppe Antoci, Monika Hohlmeier, Eero Heinäluoma, Julien Sanchez, Bogdan Rzońca, Ciaran Mullooly, Jacek Protas, Fernand Kartheiser, Caterina Chinnici and Dirk Gotink.

    The following spoke under the catch-the-eye procedure: Sebastian Tynkkynen and Grzegorz Braun.

    The following spoke: Helena Dalli and Tony Murphy.

    The debate closed.


    12. Findings of the Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women on Poland’s abortion law (debate)

    Commission statement: Findings of the Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women on Poland’s abortion law (2024/2867(RSP))

    Helena Dalli (Member of the Commission) made the statement.

    The following spoke: Ewa Kopacz, on behalf of the PPE Group, Joanna Scheuring-Wielgus, on behalf of the S&D Group, Anna Bryłka, non-attached Member, Marlena Maląg, on behalf of the ECR Group, Abir Al-Sahlani, on behalf of the Renew Group, Alice Kuhnke, on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group, Manon Aubry, on behalf of The Left Group, Ewa Zajączkowska-Hernik, on behalf of the ESN Group (the President reminded the House of the rules on conduct), Arba Kokalari, Ana Catarina Mendes, Margarita de la Pisa Carrión, who also answered blue-card questions from Bruno Gonçalves, Raquel García Hermida-Van Der Walle and Irene Montero, Małgorzata Gosiewska, who also declined to take a blue-card question from Abir Al-Sahlani, Michał Kobosko, Mélissa Camara, Irene Montero, who also answered a blue-card question from Alvise Pérez, and Tomasz Froelich.

    IN THE CHAIR: Christel SCHALDEMOSE
    Vice-President

    The following spoke: Grzegorz Braun, Elżbieta Katarzyna Łukacijewska, Heléne Fritzon, Laurence Trochu, who also answered a blue-card question from Manon Aubry, Raquel García Hermida-Van Der Walle, who also answered a blue-card question from Margarita de la Pisa Carrión, Benedetta Scuderi, Hanna Gedin, Maria Walsh, Krzysztof Śmiszek, Paolo Inselvini, who also answered a blue-card question from Hilde Vautmans, Lucia Yar, who also answered a blue-card question from Robert Biedroń, Mirosława Nykiel, Lina Gálvez, Birgit Sippel, Elisabeth Grossmann, Evin Incir, who also answered a blue-card question from Margarita de la Pisa Carrión, and Alessandra Moretti.

    The following spoke under the catch-the-eye procedure: Łukasz Kohut, Juan Fernando López Aguilar, Emma Fourreau, Lukas Sieper, Magdalena Adamowicz, Bruno Gonçalves and João Oliveira.

    The following spoke: Helena Dalli.

    The debate closed.


    13. Seven years from the assassination of Daphne Caruana Galizia: lack of progress in restoring the rule of law in Malta (debate)

    Commission statement: Seven years from the assassination of Daphne Caruana Galizia: lack of progress in restoring the rule of law in Malta (2024/2868(RSP))

    Didier Reynders (Member of the Commission) made the statement.

    The following spoke: David Casa, on behalf of the PPE Group, Alex Agius Saliba, on behalf of the S&D Group, Fabrice Leggeri, on behalf of the PfE Group, Alessandro Ciriani, on behalf of the ECR Group, Moritz Körner, on behalf of the Renew Group, Daniel Freund, on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group, Konstantinos Arvanitis, on behalf of The Left Group, Ana Miguel Pedro, Juan Fernando López Aguilar, Sophie Wilmès, Gaetano Pedulla’, Judita Laššáková, Peter Agius, Daniel Attard, Veronika Cifrová Ostrihoňová, Isabel Wiseler-Lima, who also answered a blue-card question from Alex Agius Saliba, Evin Incir, Sunčana Glavak and Thomas Bajada.

    The following spoke under the catch-the-eye procedure: Sandro Ruotolo, Katarína Roth Neveďalová and Lukas Sieper.

    The following spoke: Didier Reynders.

    IN THE CHAIR: Martin HOJSÍK
    Vice-President

    The debate closed.


    14. The important role of cities and regions in the EU – for a green, social and prosperous local development (debate)

    Commission statement: The important role of cities and regions in the EU – for a green, social and prosperous local development (2024/2869(RSP))

    Didier Reynders (Member of the Commission) made the statement.

    The following spoke: Andrey Novakov, on behalf of the PPE Group, Mohammed Chahim, on behalf of the S&D Group, Rody Tolassy, on behalf of the PfE Group, Denis Nesci, on behalf of the ECR Group, Ľubica Karvašová, on behalf of the Renew Group, Gordan Bosanac, on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group, Valentina Palmisano, on behalf of The Left Group, Arno Bausemer, on behalf of the ESN Group, Elena Nevado del Campo, Jean-Marc Germain, Jorge Buxadé Villalba, Şerban-Dimitrie Sturdza, Ciaran Mullooly, Vladimir Prebilič, Younous Omarjee, who also answered a blue-card question from Ana Miranda Paz, Nora Junco García, Krzysztof Hetman, Marcos Ros Sempere, Anne-Sophie Frigout, Waldemar Buda, Raquel García Hermida-Van Der Walle, Ana Miranda Paz, Elena Kountoura, Isabelle Le Callennec, Nora Mebarek, Raffaele Stancanelli, Ruggero Razza, Oihane Agirregoitia Martínez, Mārtiņš Staķis, Gabriella Gerzsenyi, Carla Tavares, Mireia Borrás Pabón, Barry Cowen, Fredis Beleris, René Repasi, Nikolina Brnjac, Javi López, Marco Falcone, Camilla Laureti, Antonio Decaro, Rosa Serrano Sierra, Dario Nardella, Sabrina Repp, Raffaele Topo, Marko Vešligaj, Aodhán Ó Ríordáin, Stefano Bonaccini, Sakis Arnaoutoglou, Sofie Eriksson and Alex Agius Saliba.

    The following spoke under the catch-the-eye procedure: Nina Carberry, Maria Grapini, Sebastian Tynkkynen, Niels Geuking, Juan Fernando López Aguilar and Maravillas Abadía Jover.

    The following spoke: Didier Reynders.

    The debate closed.


    15. Foreign interference and hybrid attacks: the need to strengthen EU resilience and internal security (debate)

    Commission statement: Foreign interference and hybrid attacks: the need to strengthen EU resilience and internal security (2024/2884(RSP))

    Didier Reynders (Member of the Commission) made the statement.

    The following spoke: Lena Düpont, on behalf of the PPE Group, Hannes Heide, on behalf of the S&D Group, András László, on behalf of the PfE Group, Beata Szydło, on behalf of the ECR Group, Helmut Brandstätter, on behalf of the Renew Group, Alexandra Geese, on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group, Petar Volgin, on behalf of the ESN Group, and Mirosława Nykiel.

    IN THE CHAIR: Antonella SBERNA
    Vice-President

    The following spoke: Tobias Cremer, who also answered a blue-card question from Reinier Van Lanschot, Aleksandar Nikolic, Rihards Kols, Reinier Van Lanschot, Kateřina Konečná, Ana Miguel Pedro, Brando Benifei, Nikola Bartůšek, Geadis Geadi, Javier Zarzalejos, Mathilde Androuët, Ivaylo Valchev, Pekka Toveri, Aurelijus Veryga, Salvatore De Meo and Patryk Jaki.

    The following spoke under the catch-the-eye procedure: Michał Szczerba, Juan Fernando López Aguilar, Majdouline Sbai, András Tivadar Kulja, Vytenis Povilas Andriukaitis and Magdalena Adamowicz.

    The following spoke: Didier Reynders.

    The debate closed.


    16. Proposals for Union acts

    The President announced that the President of Parliament had declared the following proposals for Union acts to be admissible under Rule 47(2):

    – Proposal for a Union act tabled by Jorge Buxadé Villalba, Juan Carlos Girauta Vidal, Mireia Borrás Pabón, Jorge Martín Frías, Margarita de la Pisa Carrión, Hermann Tertsch, on classifying the activity of military personnel, police officers, prison officers and private security guards as dangerous professions in the Union (B10-0018/2024)

    committee responsible: EMPL

    – Proposal for a Union act tabled by Jorge Buxadé Villalba, Hermann Tertsch, Juan Carlos Girauta Vidal, Mireia Borrás Pabón, Margarita de la Pisa Carrión, Jorge Martín Frías, on the need to protect families, businesses and self-employed persons from the rise in fuel prices in Europe (B10-0077/2024)

    committee responsible: ECON
    committee asked for opinion: ITRE

    – Proposal for a Union act tabled by Jorge Buxadé Villalba, Hermann Tertsch, Juan Carlos Girauta Vidal, Mireia Borrás Pabón, Margarita de la Pisa Carrión, Jorge Martín Frías, on the need for cheaper access to housing (B10-0078/2024)

    committee responsible: ECON
    committee asked for opinion: EMPL


    17. EU actions against the Russian shadow fleets and ensuring a full enforcement of sanctions against Russia (debate)

    Commission statement: EU actions against the Russian shadow fleets and ensuring a full enforcement of sanctions against Russia (2024/2885(RSP))

    Didier Reynders (Member of the Commission) made the statement.

    The following spoke: Sandra Kalniete, on behalf of the PPE Group, Thijs Reuten, on behalf of the S&D Group, András László, on behalf of the PfE Group, Reinis Pozņaks, on behalf of the ECR Group, Gerben-Jan Gerbrandy, on behalf of the Renew Group, Isabella Lövin, on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group, Jonas Sjöstedt, on behalf of The Left Group, Zsuzsanna Borvendég, on behalf of the ESN Group, Francisco José Millán Mon, Heléne Fritzon, Veronika Vrecionová, Karin Karlsbro, Ville Niinistö, Li Andersson, Pekka Toveri, Sérgio Gonçalves, Arkadiusz Mularczyk, Ivars Ijabs, Per Clausen, Mika Aaltola, Emma Wiesner, Ondřej Kolář, Lukas Mandl and Tom Berendsen.

    The following spoke under the catch-the-eye procedure: Vytenis Povilas Andriukaitis.

    The following spoke: Didier Reynders.

    Motions for resolutions to be tabled under Rule 136(2) would be announced at a later stage.

    The debate closed.

    Vote: next part-session.


    18. Need to strengthen rail travel and the railway sector in Europe (debate)

    Commission statement: Need to strengthen rail travel and the railway sector in Europe (2024/2896(RSP))

    Didier Reynders (Member of the Commission) made the statement.

    IN THE CHAIR: Javi LÓPEZ
    Vice-President

    The following spoke: Dariusz Joński, on behalf of the PPE Group, François Kalfon, on behalf of the S&D Group, Margarita de la Pisa Carrión, on behalf of the PfE Group, Marlena Maląg, on behalf of the ECR Group, Cynthia Ní Mhurchú, on behalf of the Renew Group, Kai Tegethoff, on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group, Elena Kountoura, on behalf of The Left Group, Arno Bausemer, on behalf of the ESN Group, Sophia Kircher, Vivien Costanzo, Jana Nagyová, Adrian-George Axinia, Ana Vasconcelos, who also answered a blue-card question from João Oliveira, Tilly Metz, Arash Saeidi, Luis-Vicențiu Lazarus, Nikolina Brnjac, Ondřej Krutílek, Pär Holmgren, Sebastian Everding, Kostas Papadakis and Krzysztof Hetman.

    The following spoke under the catch-the-eye procedure: Marta Wcisło, Vytenis Povilas Andriukaitis, Ana Miranda Paz, João Oliveira, Elżbieta Katarzyna Łukacijewska, Per Clausen, Carmen Crespo Díaz and Magdalena Adamowicz.

    The following spoke: Didier Reynders.

    The debate closed.


    19. Explanations of vote

    Written explanations of vote

    Explanations of vote submitted in writing under Rule 201 appear on the Members’ pages on Parliament’s website.


    20. Agenda of the next sitting

    The next sitting would be held the following day, 24 October 2024, starting at 09:00. The agenda was available on Parliament’s website.


    21. Approval of the minutes of the sitting

    In accordance with Rule 208(3), the minutes of the sitting would be put to the House for approval at the beginning of the afternoon of the next sitting.


    22. Closure of the sitting

    The sitting closed at 21:57.


    LIST OF DOCUMENTS SERVING AS A BASIS FOR THE DEBATES AND DECISIONS OF PARLIAMENT


    I. Motions for resolutions tabled

    Urgent need to revise the Medical Devices Regulation

    Motions for resolutions tabled under Rule 136(2) to wind up the debate:

    on the urgent need to revise the Medical Devices Regulation (2024/2849(RSP)) (B10-0121/2024)
    Catarina Martins
    on behalf of The Left Group

    on the urgent need to revise the Medical Devices Regulation (2024/2849(RSP)) (B10-0122/2024)
    Christine Anderson
    on behalf of the ESN Group

    on the urgent need to revise the Medical Devices Regulation (2024/2849(RSP)) (B10-0123/2024)
    Tiemo Wölken
    on behalf of the S&D Group

    on the urgent need to revise the Medical Devices Regulation (2024/2849(RSP)) (B10-0124/2024)
    Andreas Glück
    on behalf of the Renew Group

    on the urgent need to revise the Medical Devices Regulation (2024/2849(RSP)) (B10-0125/2024)
    Peter Liese
    on behalf of the PPE Group

    on the urgent need to revise the Medical Devices Regulation (2024/2849(RSP)) (B10-0126/2024)
    Ignazio Roberto Marino
    on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group

    on the urgent need to revise the Medical Devices Regulation (2024/2849(RSP)) (B10-0127/2024)
    Ondřej Knotek, Viktória Ferenc
    on behalf of the PfE Group

    on the urgent need to revise the Medical Devices Regulation (2024/2849(RSP)) (B10-0128/2024)
    Ruggero Razza, Pietro Fiocchi, Michele Picaro, Laurence Trochu, Aurelijus Veryga

    on behalf of the ECR Group

    Joint motion for a resolution tabled under Rule 136(2) and (4):

    on the urgent need to revise the Medical Devices Regulation (2024/2849(RSP)) (RC-B10-0123/2024/REV1) (replacing motions for resolutions B10-0123/2024, B10-0124/2024, B10-0125/2024, B10-0126/2024 and B10-0128/2024):

    Peter Liese
    on behalf of the PPE Group
    Tiemo Wölken
    on behalf of the S&D Group
    Ondřej Knotek
    on behalf of the PfE Group
    Ruggero Razza
    on behalf of the ECR Group
    Andreas Glück
    on behalf of the Renew Group
    Ignazio Roberto Marino
    on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group


    II. Delegated acts (Rule 114(2))

    Draft delegated acts forwarded to Parliament

    – Commission Delegated Regulation supplementing Regulation (EU) 2023/1114 of the European Parliament and of the Council with regard to regulatory technical standards on information to be exchanged between competent authorities (C(2024)06766 – 2024/2875(DEA))

    Deadline for raising objections: 3 months from the date of receipt of 10 October 2024

    referred to committee responsible: ECON

    – Commission Delegated Regulation amending Delegated Regulation (EU) 2020/688 as regards certain animal health requirements for movements within the Union of terrestrial animals (C(2024)06985 – 2024/2870(DEA))

    Deadline for raising objections: 2 months from the date of receipt of 9 October 2024

    referred to committee responsible: AGRI

    – Commission Delegated Regulation amending Regulation (EU) No 649/2012 of the European Parliament and of the Council as regards the listing of pesticides and industrial chemicals (C(2024)07071 – 2024/2880(DEA))

    Deadline for raising objections: 2 months from the date of receipt of 15 October 2024

    referred to committee responsible: ENVI

    – Commission Delegated Regulation amending Regulation (EU) 2019/1241 as regards short-necked clam and red seabream (C(2024)07102 – 2024/2876(DEA))

    Deadline for raising objections: 2 months from the date of receipt of 11 October 2024

    referred to committee responsible: PECH

    – Commission Delegated Regulation amending Regulation (EC) No 1013/2006 as regards changes on shipments of electrical and electronic waste agreed under the Basel Convention (C(2024)07198 – 2024/2900(DEA))

    Deadline for raising objections: 2 months from the date of receipt of 18 October 2024

    referred to committee responsible: ENVI

    – Commission Delegated Regulation amending Regulation (EU) 2024/1157 as regards changes on shipments of electrical and electronic waste agreed under the Basel Convention (C(2024)07199 – 2024/2899(DEA))

    Deadline for raising objections: 2 months from the date of receipt of 18 October 2024

    referred to committee responsible: ENVI

    – Commission Delegated Regulation amending Regulation (EU) 2015/757 of the European Parliament and of the Council as regards the rules for the monitoring of greenhouse gas emissions from offshore ships and the zero-rating of sustainable fuels (C(2024)07210 – 2024/2894(DEA))

    Deadline for raising objections: 2 months from the date of receipt of 16 October 2024

    referred to committee responsible: ENVI


    III. Implementing measures (Rule 115)

    Draft implementing measures falling under the regulatory procedure with scrutiny forwarded to Parliament

    – Commission Regulation amending Annex II to Regulation (EC) No 396/2005 of the European Parliament and of the Council as regards maximum residue levels for fenbuconazole and penconazole in or on certain products (D096823/04 – 2024/2898(RPS) – deadline: 18 December 2024)
    referred to committee responsible: ENVI

    – Commission Regulation amending Annex I to Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 of the European Parliament and of the Council as regards the removal of the flavouring substance 4-Methyl-2-phenylpent-2-enal (FL No 05.100) from the Union list (D099950/02 – 2024/2873(RPS) – deadline: 11 January 2025)
    referred to committee responsible: ENVI

    – Commission Regulation amending Annex I to Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 of the European Parliament and of the Council as regards the inclusion of (E)‐3‐benzo[1,3]dioxol‐5‐yl‐N,N‐diphenyl‐2‐propenamide in the Union list of flavourings (D099953/02 – 2024/2874(RPS) – deadline: 11 December 2024)
    referred to committee responsible: ENVI

    – Commission Regulation amending Regulations (EC) No 2150/2002 and (EC) No 1552/2005 of the European Parliament and of the Council, as well as Commission Regulations (EC) No 1726/1999, (EC) No 1916/2000, (EC) No 198/2006, (EC) No 1062/2008 and (EU) No 349/2011, as regards references to the statistical classification of economic activities NACE Revision 2 established by Regulation (EC) No 1893/2006 of the European Parliament and of the Council (D100325/01 – 2024/2901(RPS) – deadline: 21 January 2025)
    referred to committees responsible: EMPL, ENVI


    IV. Documents received

    The following documents had been received:

    – Proposal for transfer of appropriations DEC 12/2024 – Section III – Commission (N10-0019/2024 – C10-0122/2024 – 2024/2059(GBD))
    referred to committee responsible: BUDG

    – Proposal for transfer of appropriations DEC 13/2024 – Section III – Commission (N10-0021/2024 – C10-0135/2024 – 2024/2060(GBD))
    referred to committee responsible: BUDG


    V. Transfers of appropriations and budgetary decisions

    In accordance with Article 29 of the Financial Regulation, the Committee on Budgets had decided to approve transfer of appropriations INF 5/2024 – Section VI – European Economic and Social Committee.

    In accordance with Article 29 of the Financial Regulation, the Committee on Budgets had decided to approve transfer of appropriations INF 3/2024 – Section VII – Committee of the Regions.

    In accordance with Article 29 of the Financial Regulation, the Committee on Budgets had decided to approve transfer of appropriations No 1/2024 – Section VIII – European Ombudsman.

    In accordance with Article 31(3) of the Financial Regulation, the Committee on Budgets had decided to approve Commission transfers of appropriations DEC 09/2024 and DEC 10/2024 – Section III – Commission.

    In accordance with Article 31(6) of the Financial Regulation, the Council of the European Union had decided to approve Commission transfers of appropriations DEC 09/2024 and DEC 10/2024 – Section III – Commission.


    ATTENDANCE REGISTER

    Present:

    Aaltola Mika, Abadía Jover Maravillas, Adamowicz Magdalena, Aftias Georgios, Agirregoitia Martínez Oihane, Agius Peter, Agius Saliba Alex, Alexandraki Galato, Allione Grégory, Al-Sahlani Abir, Anadiotis Nikolaos, Anderson Christine, Andersson Li, Andresen Rasmus, Andrews Barry, Andriukaitis Vytenis Povilas, Androuët Mathilde, Angel Marc, Annemans Gerolf, Antoci Giuseppe, Arimont Pascal, Arłukowicz Bartosz, Arnaoutoglou Sakis, Arndt Anja, Arvanitis Konstantinos, Asens Llodrà Jaume, Assis Francisco, Attard Daniel, Aubry Manon, Auštrevičius Petras, Axinia Adrian-George, Azmani Malik, Bajada Thomas, Baljeu Jeannette, Ballarín Cereza Laura, Bardella Jordan, Barna Dan, Barrena Arza Pernando, Bartulica Stephen Nikola, Bartůšek Nikola, Bausemer Arno, Bay Nicolas, Bay Christophe, Beke Wouter, Beleris Fredis, Bellamy François-Xavier, Benea Adrian-Dragoş, Benifei Brando, Benjumea Benjumea Isabel, Beňová Monika, Bentele Hildegard, Berendsen Tom, Berger Stefan, Berlato Sergio, Bernhuber Alexander, Biedroń Robert, Bielan Adam, Bischoff Gabriele, Blaha Ľuboš, Blinkevičiūtė Vilija, Blom Rachel, Bloss Michael, Bocheński Tobiasz, Boeselager Damian, Bonaccini Stefano, Bonte Barbara, Borchia Paolo, Borrás Pabón Mireia, Borvendég Zsuzsanna, Borzan Biljana, Bosanac Gordan, Boßdorf Irmhild, Bosse Stine, Botenga Marc, Boyer Gilles, Boylan Lynn, Brandstätter Helmut, Brasier-Clain Marie-Luce, Braun Grzegorz, Brejza Krzysztof, Bricmont Saskia, Brnjac Nikolina, Bryłka Anna, Buczek Tomasz, Buda Waldemar, Budka Borys, Bugalho Sebastião, Buła Andrzej, Burkhardt Delara, Buxadé Villalba Jorge, Bžoch Jaroslav, Camara Mélissa, Canfin Pascal, Carberry Nina, Cârciu Gheorghe, Carême Damien, Casa David, Caspary Daniel, Cassart Benoit, Castillo Laurent, del Castillo Vera Pilar, Cavazzini Anna, Cavedagna Stefano, Ceccardi Susanna, Cepeda José, Ceulemans Estelle, Chahim Mohammed, Chaibi Leila, Chastel Olivier, Chinnici Caterina, Christensen Asger, Ciccioli Carlo, Cifrová Ostrihoňová Veronika, Ciriani Alessandro, Cisint Anna Maria, Clausen Per, Clergeau Christophe, Cormand David, Corrado Annalisa, Costanzo Vivien, Cotrim De Figueiredo João, Cowen Barry, Cremer Tobias, Crespo Díaz Carmen, Crosetto Giovanni, Cunha Paulo, Dahl Henrik, Danielsson Johan, Dauchy Marie, Dávid Dóra, David Ivan, Decaro Antonio, de la Hoz Quintano Raúl, Della Valle Danilo, Deloge Valérie, De Masi Fabio, De Meo Salvatore, Demirel Özlem, Deutsch Tamás, Devaux Valérie, Dibrani Adnan, Diepeveen Ton, Dieringer Elisabeth, Di Rupo Elio, Disdier Mélanie, Dobrev Klára, Doherty Regina, Doleschal Christian, Dömötör Csaba, Donazzan Elena, Dorfmann Herbert, Dostalova Klara, Dostál Ondřej, Droese Siegbert Frank, Düpont Lena, Dworczyk Michał, Ecke Matthias, Ehler Christian, Ehlers Marieke, Eriksson Sofie, Erixon Dick, Eroglu Engin, Estaràs Ferragut Rosa, Everding Sebastian, Ezcurra Almansa Alma, Falcă Gheorghe, Falcone Marco, Farantouris Nikolas, Farreng Laurence, Farský Jan, Ferber Markus, Ferenc Viktória, Fidanza Carlo, Fiocchi Pietro, Firea Gabriela, Firmenich Ruth, Fita Claire, Fourlas Loucas, Fourreau Emma, Fragkos Emmanouil, Freund Daniel, Frigout Anne-Sophie, Friis Sigrid, Fritzon Heléne, Froelich Tomasz, Fuglsang Niels, Funchion Kathleen, Furet Angéline, Furore Mario, Gahler Michael, Gál Kinga, Galán Estrella, Gálvez Lina, Gambino Alberico, García Hermida-Van Der Walle Raquel, Garraud Jean-Paul, Gasiuk-Pihowicz Kamila, Geadi Geadis, Gedin Hanna, Geese Alexandra, Geier Jens, Geisel Thomas, Gemma Chiara, Georgiou Giorgos, Gerbrandy Gerben-Jan, Germain Jean-Marc, Gerzsenyi Gabriella, Geuking Niels, Gieseke Jens, Giménez Larraz Borja, Girauta Vidal Juan Carlos, Glavak Sunčana, Glucksmann Raphaël, Goerens Charles, Gomart Christophe, Gomes Isilda, Gonçalves Bruno, Gonçalves Sérgio, González Casares Nicolás, González Pons Esteban, Gori Giorgio, Gosiewska Małgorzata, Gotink Dirk, Gozi Sandro, Grapini Maria, Gražulis Petras, Grims Branko, Griset Catherine, Gronkiewicz-Waltz Hanna, Grossmann Elisabeth, Grudler Christophe, Gualmini Elisabetta, Guetta Bernard, Guzenina Maria, Gyürk András, Hadjipantela Michalis, Hahn Svenja, Haider Roman, Halicki Andrzej, Hansen Christophe, Hansen Niels Flemming, Hassan Rima, Häusling Martin, Hava Mircea-Gheorghe, Hazekamp Anja, Heide Hannes, Heinäluoma Eero, Henriksson Anna-Maja, Herbst Niclas, Herranz García Esther, Hetman Krzysztof, Hohlmeier Monika, Hojsík Martin, Holmgren Pär, Hölvényi György, Humberto Sérgio, Ijabs Ivars, Imart Céline, Incir Evin, Inselvini Paolo, Iovanovici Şoşoacă Diana, Jaki Patryk, Jalloul Muro Hana, Jamet France, Jarubas Adam, Jerković Romana, Jongen Marc, Joński Dariusz, Joron Virginie, Jouvet Pierre, Joveva Irena, Juknevičienė Rasa, Junco García Nora, Jungbluth Alexander, Kabilov Taner, Kalfon François, Kaliňák Erik, Kalniete Sandra, Kamiński Mariusz, Kanev Radan, Kanko Assita, Karlsbro Karin, Kartheiser Fernand, Karvašová Ľubica, Katainen Elsi, Kefalogiannis Emmanouil, Kelleher Billy, Keller Fabienne, Kelly Seán, Kennes Rudi, Khan Mary, Kircher Sophia, Knafo Sarah, Knotek Ondřej, Kobosko Michał, Köhler Stefan, Kohut Łukasz, Kokalari Arba, Kolář Ondřej, Kollár Kinga, Kols Rihards, Konečná Kateřina, Kopacz Ewa, Körner Moritz, Kountoura Elena, Kovatchev Andrey, Krah Maximilian, Krištopans Vilis, Kruis Sebastian, Krutílek Ondřej, Kubilius Andrius, Kubín Tomáš, Kuhnke Alice, Kulja András Tivadar, Kulmuni Katri, Kyllönen Merja, Lagodinsky Sergey, Lakos Eszter, Lange Bernd, Langensiepen Katrin, Laššáková Judita, László András, Latinopoulou Afroditi, Laurent Murielle, Laureti Camilla, Laykova Rada, Lazarov Ilia, Lazarus Luis-Vicențiu, Le Callennec Isabelle, Leggeri Fabrice, Lenaers Jeroen, Leonardelli Julien, Lewandowski Janusz, Lexmann Miriam, Liese Peter, Lins Norbert, Løkkegaard Morten, Lopatka Reinhold, López Javi, López Aguilar Juan Fernando, López-Istúriz White Antonio, Lövin Isabella, Lucano Mimmo, Luena César, Łukacijewska Elżbieta Katarzyna, Lupo Giuseppe, McAllister David, Madison Jaak, Maestre Cristina, Magoni Lara, Maij Marit, Maląg Marlena, Mandl Lukas, Maniatis Yannis, Maran Pierfrancesco, Marczułajtis-Walczak Jagna, Maréchal Marion, Mariani Thierry, Marino Ignazio Roberto, Marquardt Erik, Martín Frías Jorge, Martins Catarina, Martusciello Fulvio, Marzà Ibáñez Vicent, Matthieu Sara, Mavrides Costas, Mayer Georg, Mazurek Milan, McNamara Michael, Mebarek Nora, Meimarakis Vangelis, Meleti Eleonora, Mendes Ana Catarina, Mendia Idoia, Mertens Verena, Mesure Marina, Metsola Roberta, Metz Tilly, Mikser Sven, Milazzo Giuseppe, Millán Mon Francisco José, Minchev Nikola, Mînzatu Roxana, Miranda Paz Ana, Molnár Csaba, Montero Irene, Montserrat Dolors, Morace Carolina, Morano Nadine, Moratti Letizia, Moreira de Sá Tiago, Moreno Sánchez Javier, Moretti Alessandra, Mularczyk Arkadiusz, Müller Piotr, Mullooly Ciaran, Mureşan Siegfried, Muşoiu Ştefan, Nagyová Jana, Nardella Dario, Negrescu Victor, Nemec Matjaž, Nerudová Danuše, Nesci Denis, Neumann Hannah, Nevado del Campo Elena, Nica Dan, Niebler Angelika, Niedermayer Luděk, Niinistö Ville, Nikolaou-Alavanos Lefteris, Nikolic Aleksandar, Ní Mhurchú Cynthia, Noichl Maria, Nordqvist Rasmus, Novakov Andrey, Nykiel Mirosława, Obajtek Daniel, Ódor Ľudovít, Oetjen Jan-Christoph, Ohisalo Maria, Oliveira João, Olivier Philippe, Omarjee Younous, Ondruš Branislav, Ó Ríordáin Aodhán, Orlando Leoluca, Ozdoba Jacek, Paet Urmas, Pajín Leire, Palmisano Valentina, Papadakis Kostas, Papandreou Nikos, Pappas Nikos, Pascual De La Parte Nicolás, Paulus Jutta, Pedro Ana Miguel, Pedulla’ Gaetano, Pellerin-Carlin Thomas, Peltier Guillaume, Penkova Tsvetelina, Pennelle Gilles, Pérez Alvise, Peter-Hansen Kira Marie, Petrov Hristo, Picaro Michele, Picierno Pina, Picula Tonino, Piera Pascale, Pimpie Pierre, Piperea Gheorghe, de la Pisa Carrión Margarita, Pokorná Jermanová Jaroslava, Polato Daniele, Polfjärd Jessica, Pozņaks Reinis, Prebilič Vladimir, Princi Giusi, Protas Jacek, Pürner Friedrich, Rackete Carola, Radev Emil, Radtke Dennis, Rafowicz Emma, Ratas Jüri, Razza Ruggero, Rechagneux Julie, Regner Evelyn, Repasi René, Repp Sabrina, Reuten Thijs, Riba i Giner Diana, Ricci Matteo, Ridel Chloé, Riehl Nela, Ripa Manuela, Rodrigues André, Ros Sempere Marcos, Roth Neveďalová Katarína, Rougé André, Ruissen Bert-Jan, Ruotolo Sandro, Rzońca Bogdan, Saeidi Arash, Salini Massimiliano, Salis Ilaria, Salla Aura, Sánchez Amor Nacho, Sanchez Julien, Sancho Murillo Elena, Saramo Jussi, Sardone Silvia, Šarec Marjan, Sargiacomo Eric, Satouri Mounir, Saudargas Paulius, Sbai Majdouline, Sberna Antonella, Schaldemose Christel, Schaller-Baross Ernő, Schenk Oliver, Scheuring-Wielgus Joanna, Schieder Andreas, Schilling Lena, Schneider Christine, Schwab Andreas, Scuderi Benedetta, Seekatz Ralf, Sell Alexander, Serrano Sierra Rosa, Serra Sánchez Isabel, Sidl Günther, Sienkiewicz Bartłomiej, Sieper Lukas, Simon Sven, Singer Christine, Sippel Birgit, Sjöstedt Jonas, Śmiszek Krzysztof, Smith Anthony, Smit Sander, Sokol Tomislav, Solier Diego, Solís Pérez Susana, Sommen Liesbet, Sonneborn Martin, Sorel Malika, Sousa Silva Hélder, Søvndal Villy, Squarta Marco, Staķis Mārtiņš, Stancanelli Raffaele, Steger Petra, Stier Davor Ivo, Storm Kristoffer, Stöteler Sebastiaan, Stoyanov Stanislav, Strack-Zimmermann Marie-Agnes, Strada Cecilia, Streit Joachim, Strik Tineke, Strolenberg Anna, Sturdza Şerban-Dimitrie, Stürgkh Anna, Sypniewski Marcin, Szczerba Michał, Szekeres Pál, Szydło Beata, Tamburrano Dario, Tânger Corrêa António, Tarczyński Dominik, Tarquinio Marco, Tarr Zoltán, Tavares Carla, Tegethoff Kai, Teodorescu Georgiana, Teodorescu Måwe Alice, Ter Laak Ingeborg, Terras Riho, Tertsch Hermann, Thionnet Pierre-Romain, Timgren Beatrice, Tinagli Irene, Tobback Bruno, Tobé Tomas, Tolassy Rody, Tomac Eugen, Tomašič Zala, Tomaszewski Waldemar, Tomc Romana, Tonin Matej, Toom Jana, Topo Raffaele, Torselli Francesco, Tosi Flavio, Toussaint Marie, Tovaglieri Isabella, Toveri Pekka, Tridico Pasquale, Trochu Laurence, Tsiodras Dimitris, Turek Filip, Tynkkynen Sebastian, Uhrík Milan, Ušakovs Nils, Vaidere Inese, Valchev Ivaylo, Vălean Adina, Valet Matthieu, Van Brempt Kathleen, Van Brug Anouk, van den Berg Brigitte, Vandendriessche Tom, Van Dijck Kris, Van Lanschot Reinier, Van Leeuwen Jessika, Vannacci Roberto, Van Sparrentak Kim, Varaut Alexandre, Vasconcelos Ana, Vautmans Hilde, Vedrenne Marie-Pierre, Ventola Francesco, Verheyen Sabine, Verougstraete Yvan, Veryga Aurelijus, Vešligaj Marko, Vicsek Annamária, Vieira Catarina, Vigenin Kristian, Vilimsky Harald, Vincze Loránt, Virkkunen Henna, Vistisen Anders, Vivaldini Mariateresa, Volgin Petar, von der Schulenburg Michael, Vondra Alexandr, Voss Axel, Vozemberg-Vrionidi Elissavet, Vrecionová Veronika, Vázquez Lázara Adrián, Waitz Thomas, Walsh Maria, Walsmann Marion, Warborn Jörgen, Warnke Jan-Peter, Wąsik Maciej, Wcisło Marta, Wechsler Andrea, Weimers Charlie, Werbrouck Séverine, Wiesner Emma, Wiezik Michal, Wilmès Sophie, Winkler Iuliu, Winzig Angelika, Wiseler-Lima Isabel, Wiśniewska Jadwiga, Wölken Tiemo, Wolters Lara, Yar Lucia, Yon-Courtin Stéphanie, Yoncheva Elena, Zacharia Maria, Zajączkowska-Hernik Ewa, Zalewska Anna, Žalimas Dainius, Zan Alessandro, Zarzalejos Javier, Zdechovský Tomáš, Zdrojewski Bogdan Andrzej, Zīle Roberts, Zingaretti Nicola, Złotowski Kosma, Zoido Álvarez Juan Ignacio, Zovko Željana, Zver Milan

    Excused:

    Gómez López Sandra, Homs Ginel Alicia, Lalucq Aurore

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare and International Rice Research Institute to organize 13th National Seed Congress from 28-30 November, 2024 at Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh

    Source: Government of India

    Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare and International Rice Research Institute to organize 13th National Seed Congress from 28-30 November, 2024 at Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh

    Event is being organized in collaboration with the International Rice Research Institute of South Asia Regional Centre and the National Seed Research and Training Center

    The 3-day event aims to bring together policymakers, farmers, and representatives from the private and public sectors to build a roadmap for a vibrant and equitable seed sector in India

    “Fostering Regional Cooperation, Partnership, and Knowledge Exchange in the Seed Sector” will be the theme of NSC 2024

    Posted On: 24 OCT 2024 11:52AM by PIB Delhi

    The Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare, Government of India will be hosting the 13th edition of the National Seed Congress (NSC), scheduled to take place in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, from November 28-30, 2024. The event is being organized in collaboration with the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) South Asia Regional Centre (ISARC) and the National Seed Research and Training Center (NSRTC). The National Seed Congress will bring together stakeholders from across the seed value chain, offering a platform to explore transformative solutions and tackle the pressing challenges faced by the sector today.

    Underlining the role of NSC, Smt. Shubha Thakur, Additional Secretary, Department of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare stated that, “To boost farmers’ income and ensure food and nutrition security for billions, access to high-quality, climate-resilient, and nutritious seeds, along with improved cultivars, is more crucial than ever. NSC 2024 will serve as a platform to collaborate on addressing these challenges, empowering farmers, and ensuring that India’s agriculture remains strong and sustainable. This event will catalyze innovative solutions and promote partnerships that drive seed sector growth.”

    “This event comes at a crucial time, as agriculture is facing evolving market demands and a need for more inclusive and sustainable seed systems. The convergence of experts and stakeholders from across the seed value chain in diverse agro-ecologies will allow us to generate impactful solutions to these complex issues”, remarked Dr. Yvonne Pinto, Director General, IRRI.

    Dr. Sudhanshu Singh, Director of IRRI’s South Asia Regional Centre (ISARC) will be convening this year’s event. Since its inauguration by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi in 2018, ISARC in Varanasi has been instrumental in advancing IRRI’s efforts to strengthen India’s seed systems, through innovative research, capacity building, and impactful partnerships over the years. Along with development of successful climate-resilient rice varieties such as Sahbhagi Dhan and Swarna-Sub 1, and nutritionally enhanced varieties and value-added products, the institution has also facilitated cross-border seed exchange, expediting varietal release and accelerated adoption through policies like ‘Seeds Without Borders’. Additionally, IRRI’s genomic tools, digital platforms, and robust seed systems ensure faster varietal development and structured dissemination.

    Shri Manoj Kumar, Director of the National Seed Research and Training Centre (NSRTC) and co-convener of the event emphasized NSRTC’s critical role in improving seed quality and training across the country. He highlighted NSRTC’s involvement in the event, stating, “National Seed Congress is a crucial forum for knowledge exchange and capacity building. NSRTC is dedicated to improving seed quality control and facilitating the transfer of modern technologies to the industry. Through our participation in NSC 2024, we aim to strengthen the seed quality testing network and ensure that high-quality seeds are accessible to farmers across the country.”

    NSC is an annual gathering of researchers, policymakers, farmers, and representatives from the private and public sectors to build a roadmap for a vibrant and equitable seed sector in India. With the theme, “Fostering Regional Cooperation, Partnership, and Knowledge Exchange in the Seed Sector,” NSC 2024 will provide a platform for presenting experiences and insights on the research advances, innovations, and principles related to seed, crop improvement, and seed delivery systems.

    NSC 2024 aims to catalyze scientific progress by facilitating the exchange of ideas and interdisciplinary research. It will address pressing global challenges in the seed sector and offer insights and solutions that can influence policy changes, technological innovations, and sustainable development.

    NSC 2024 will focus on building sustainable, equitable, and resilient seed systems by addressing a diverse range of topics, including-Breeding and Seed Systems for Climate Resilience, Advancements in Seed Quality and Technology, Digital Solutions for Breeding, Seed Systems, and Market Insights, Strengthening Public-Private Partnerships in Seed Sector, Inclusive Seed Systems for Livelihood Improvement, Innovative Approaches for Seed Delivery and Scaling, and Nutritional Security through Strategic Seed Initiatives.

    Interested stakeholders can visit the website for more information and register using the link:  https://13thnscindia2024.com/index.html

    All queries may be routed to:

    Organising Secretary, NSC: Dr Swati Nayak, IRRI (Borlaug Field Award Recipient 2023) at info-nsc2024[at]irri[dot]org

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