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Category: AM-NC

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: The AAIB has sent a team of inspectors to Belfast City Airport

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    A team of inspectors has been sent to investigate an accident which occurred on 22 December 2024

    An investigation has begun into an accident involving a fixed-wing aircraft which occurred at Belfast City Airport on 22 December 2024.  AAIB inspectors have commenced the on-site investigation to gather evidence and make enquiries.

    Media enquiries:
    During office hours 01932 440015
    Out of office hours 0300 777 7878

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 December 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Lord Stuart Peach visits Bosnia and Herzegovina

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    UK Prime Minister’s Special Envoy for the Western Balkans, Lord Stuart Peach visited Bosnia and Herzegovina from 18 to 20 December 2024.

    Lord Stuart Peach

    Lord Stuart Peach’s visit was part of the UK’s ongoing commitment to the security, stability and prosperity of the country, and support for BiH aspirations for Euro-Atlantic integration.

    Over the course of his visit, Lord Peach met BiH Presidency members Zeljko Komsic and Denis Becirovic, Chairwoman of the BiH Council of Minister Borjana Kristo, and Minister of Foreign Affairs Elmedin Konakovic to discuss economic, political and security issues. Lord Peach reiterated the UK’s continuous strong support for BiH’s reform agenda and the UK’s readiness to support the delivery of sustainable reforms that deliver real change for the people of BiH.

    He also met Chief of BiH Armed Forces Joint Staff General Gojko Knezevic and Deputies Major General Mirsad Ahmic and Major General Tomo Kolenda to whom he reaffirmed UK commitment to Western Balkans security and support to the Armed Forces of BiH. Lord Peach praised BiH for hosting an important Women Peace and Security Chiefs of Defence Network Conference, organised in cooperation with the UK, emphasised mutual benefits of recent joint training of BiH and UK Armed Forces, and highlighted importance of Armed Forces and Ministry of Defence BiH embracing reform and modernisation in pursuit of Euro-Atlantic integration.

    In the light of ongoing pressures on cultural institutions of importance to Bosnia and Herzegovina, Lord Peach hosted a dinner with representatives of these institutions which are a vital part of the shared history and values of Bosnia and Herzegovina. He was keen to hear from them about the challenges they are facing and potential solutions for ensuring a sustainable future for these institutions, including through proper and timely funding.

    Lord Peach’s latest visit to Bosnia and Herzegovina follows visits to North Macedonia and Serbia earlier this week.

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 December 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Plans approved for almost 100 new energy-efficient council homes as part of major overhaul

    Source: City of Wolverhampton

    It is part of City of Wolverhampton Council’s citywide strategy to identify solutions for 4,100 out-dated homes built by old, non-traditional construction methods.

    Keon Homes has, through the council’s housing framework, been appointed as the construction partner for the new homes on the Lincoln Green Estate and are expected to start on site in late spring.

    The first wave of demolition of the ageing bungalows continues across the estate on Alleston Road, Grosvenor Road, Lincoln Green and School Lane – and in the Wood End and Portobello areas of the city. Work on planning applications for new homes in the other two locations are ongoing.

    All of the old bungalows have been declared defective under the 1985 Housing Act – and suffer from a number of issues including failing structural elements, leaking and poorly insulated roofs, very poor thermal efficiency, and wet rot in the floor.

    The council has therefore taken the decision to replace the properties before they have an adverse effect on tenants’ health and wellbeing.

    The new, modern housing will also provide a greater ability to adapt properties to meet tenants’ needs, something which has been difficult to achieve in the out-dated properties due to their structural limitations.

    The overall non-traditional housing stock replacement programme is being managed on behalf of the council by Wolverhampton Homes and follows extensive and ongoing consultation with residents.

    City of Wolverhampton Council Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for City Housing, Councillor Steve Evans, said: “The non-traditional built properties are in such poor structural condition that they can no longer be economically and satisfactorily maintained.

    “For the safety and comfort of our residents, we are delivering better homes in the long term that they can make their own in the same location.

    “We will continue talking with all those affected and have engaged with all tenants, who are relishing the prospect of moving into brand new homes. They understand the absolute necessity to remove these out-dated bungalows and replace them with new modern homes.

    “It is a key priority of our council plan to ensure we provide good homes in well-connected neighbourhoods for all our residents.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Alexander Novak took part in the launch of the third line of the Kysyl-Syr – 84 km gas pipeline

    Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Alexander Novak, via video link, performed the ceremonial launch of the 3rd line of the main gas pipeline “Kysyl-Syr – 84 km”. With Head of the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia) Aisen Nikolaev

    December 23, 2024

    Alexander Novak performed the ceremonial launch of the 3rd line of the main gas pipeline “Kysyl-Syr – 84 km” via video link. With Head of the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia) Aisen Nikolaev

    December 23, 2024

    Alexander Novak, via video link, performed the ceremonial launch of the 3rd line of the main gas pipeline “Kysyl-Syr – 84 km”. With Head of the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia) Aisen Nikolaev

    December 23, 2024

    Alexander Novak, via video link, performed the ceremonial launch of the 3rd line of the main gas pipeline “Kysyl-Syr – 84 km”. With Head of the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia) Aisen Nikolaev

    December 23, 2024

    Previous news Next news

    Alexander Novak performed the ceremonial launch of the 3rd line of the main gas pipeline “Kysyl-Syr – 84 km” via video link. With Head of the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia) Aisen Nikolaev

    Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak held a ceremonial launch of the third line of the Kysyl-Syr – 84 km main gas pipeline via video link. The head of the Sakha Republic (Yakutia) Aisen Nikolaev and the general director of JSC Sakhatransneftegaz Alexey Kolodeznikov also took part in the gas launch ceremony.

    “The launch of the Kysyl-Syr main gas pipeline with its subsequent inclusion in the unified gas transportation system is of the utmost socio-economic importance for the residents of the republic and will ensure reliable gas supply to the Central Energy Region of Yakutia. These are 102 settlements, including Yakutsk, Pokrovsk and Vilyuysk. These settlements are home to 456 thousand people, 626 social infrastructure facilities are located – 220 schools, 235 kindergartens, 171 medical institutions,” noted Alexander Novak.

    From 2021 to 2025, the construction of 11 inter-settlement gas pipelines, 6 gas pipeline branches and gas distribution stations is planned in Yakutia. Another 28 settlements will be gasified. In 2025, it is planned to gasify at least 1.5 thousand households as part of the social additional gasification program.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Airport probe report reviewed

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Government has reviewed an investigation report by the Airport Authority (AAHK) regarding an incident in November last year involving the Automated People Mover system (APM) at Hong Kong International Airport.

     

    On November 21, 2023, a young passenger using the APM system was suspected to have stepped into a gap between a platform and a train.

     

    With regard to system safety, the authority’s investigation did not find any systematic safety issues with the APM system.

     

    Infrared devices are installed at the platform screen doors (PSDs) and train doors, such that when a device detects that a passenger or obstacle has been trapped between a PSD and a train door, the system will instruct the PSDs and the train doors to remain open.

     

    The AAHK also completed a project in June this year to narrow the gap between platforms and trains, thereby serving to prevent passengers from stepping into the platform gap.

     

    The Electrical & Mechanical Services Department has confirmed that the APM system is safe in its design and operation.

     

    In relation to notification of incidents, the AAHK will give notice to the Government of any incident in which a person falls between a train and a platform, in accordance with the relevant regulations.

     

    The AAHK conducted a thorough and in-depth investigation into the incident and found no evidence of a cover-up by any staff. It admitted that the scope of its first investigation, conducted early this year, was not thorough enough.

     

    The AAHK’s investigation found that after the young passenger stepped into the gap between the platform and the train, other passengers immediately pulled her out of it. As the train doors were closed, as scheduled, no system alert was triggered. The AAHK did not receive any complaint or injury report filed by the passenger or her family at that time.

     

    That said, the AAHK admitted that there was lack of clarity in the APM Operation & Emergency Procedure Manual, and a lack of alertness in reporting and communication among frontline staff, resulting in the incident not being properly recorded at that time.

     

    As a result, AAHK staff failed to identify the incident in time and report it to the Government.

     

    The Government noted that the AAHK has already taken disciplinary actions against the relevant staff. It requested that the authority implement improvement measures to prevent similar incidents from occurring again.

     

    It also noted that the AAHK has enhanced its incident investigation mechanism and has been implementing two other improvement measures.

     

    One of these involves finishing updates to the APM manual and arranging relevant training next month to strengthen the incident notification mechanism. The other involves completing the enhancement of the CCTV system on platforms by March next year.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Facilities for Family Entertainment Reconstructed with FEMA Funds

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Facilities for Family Entertainment Reconstructed with FEMA Funds

    Facilities for Family Entertainment Reconstructed with FEMA Funds

    Guaynabo, PUERTO RICO — To have family entertainment spaces where people can enjoy safe places to gather, especially during the holiday season, is part of Puerto Rico’s integral recovery. That’s why the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) obligated $3.1 million to repair the Southern Coast Boardwalk in Juana Díaz, and the floating dock and gazebos in Ceiba.“These recreational areas provide spaces for families to share. They benefit their residents as well as all local and international visitors who enjoy their cultural and gastronomic offering, in addition to promoting the economy of the municipalities,” said Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator José Baquero.According to Carimelys Alvarado, the Culture, Arts and Tourism director for the municipality of Juana Díaz, the boardwalk located in the Camboya community has great tourist value, as well as merchants and fisherfolk who contribute directly to economic development. Besides having gastronomic alternatives, they also host musical and family events. The boardwalk was established in 2000 and it welcomes up to 500 people during the weekends.“This is one of our great contributions to the economy, culture and tourism. As natives from Juana Díaz, this project was like a diamond for us. I remember the inauguration, when we got goosebumps because our coast is so important. This project marks an emphasis on our economic development,” Alvarado said.For the merchants, the repairs have meant receiving more customers, encouraged by how beautiful the facilities are now. This was confirmed by business owner Rubén Figueroa Ortiz. “This boardwalk repair has benefited us a lot, especially the businesses. Now we have a higher attendance. I am the oldest merchant here, with many years of service, and I feel very proud to have this opportunity right now,” he added.Some of the already completed repairs with an allocation of nearly $2.9 million include the replacement of aluminum panels, repairs to the asphalt surface, concrete piers and sidewalks, exterior electrical outlets, lighting fixtures and stairs, and the installation of a concrete retaining wall in the waterfront boardwalk area.Mitigation measures were carried out with nearly $937,000 within the same allocation. For example, a geotextile filter fabric was added to prevent internal erosion; the piles were reinforced to make them resistant to strong waves and protect them from corrosion; and the wooden decking was replaced with PVC to increase its durability.The director of the Juana Díaz Recovery Office, José Plata, said that this project is one of the most important that the municipality has been able to complete after the impact of the hurricanes, “especially for the community, as part of its culture and traditions.”On the other hand, in Ceiba, the dock and the gazebos located at the Villa Pesquera on Los Machos Beach offer a sustainable alternative to maximize space for fisherfolk without damaging marine ecosystems, according to the director of the Municipal Office of Emergency Management, Eddie García.“Its innovative design allows it to adapt to the water level, reducing the environmental impact. In addition, it combines aquatic activities with a perfect setting for social and cultural events. You can enjoy a restaurant and kiosks with fresh seafood, typical Puerto Rican food and live music, as well as kayaking, paddleboarding and recreational fishing,” García added.The high-density plastic floating dock built in 2015 extends into the ocean and receives between 75 and 500 visitors per week. Both were severely damaged and dismantled by high winds and storm surge during Hurricane María.With an obligation of nearly $226,000, the municipality has already completed repairs to the pier and the 16 wooden gazebos in front of the beach ―dated from 1995― are in the planning phase. Part of the work included the replacement of the pier, the access and the replacement of the gazebos’ bases and roofs. As part of the hazard mitigation measures, the gazebos will be reinforced with anticyclonic anchoring and additional anchoring for the roofs at a cost of nearly $2,000.One of its regular visitors is Ana López, who uses the dock ramp for her boat. López describes it as “a meeting point for the fishing community and a unique tourist attraction that promotes the responsible enjoyment of natural resources, while strengthening the area’s cultural and economic identity.”Meanwhile, the executive director of the Central Office for Recovery, Reconstruction and Resiliency (COR3), Manuel A. Laboy Rivera, said that “recreational and sports facilities are an important element in the communities, as they promote the training of our athletes and foster the economic development of various sectors. These projects in Juana Díaz and Ceiba are in addition to another 1,236 works with investments totaling $446.6 million that are under construction in the 78 municipalities. Meanwhile, citizens already enjoy 970 completed works around the island representing $187.5 million. We reaffirm our commitment to continue assisting them in the execution of another 832 recreational facilities that are in the design or construction acquisition stage.”FEMA has allocated over $34.5 billion for Puerto Rico’s recovery from Hurricane María. Of this total funding, about $1.4 billion are earmarked for nearly 2,200 park and recreational facility projects throughout the island. For more information about Puerto Rico’s recovery,  visit fema.gov/disaster/4339, fema.gov/disaster/4473 and recovery.pr. Follow us on our social media at Facebook.com/FEMAPuertoRico, Facebook.com/COR3pr and Twitter @COR3pr.
    manuel.deleon
    Mon, 12/23/2024 – 11:33

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: COP 29: Enhancing Strategic Collaboration Across Organisations of African, Caribbean and Pacific States for Climate Disaster Resilience

    Source: Caribbean Development Bank

    Opening Statements 

    Mr. L O’Reilly Lewis, Acting Director, Projects Department, CDB 
    Mr. Jose Carlos Edo Monfort, Team Leader, Directorate General INTPA (European Commission) 
    Ms. Cristelle Pratt, Assistant Secretary General, OACPS

    Panellists

    Ms. Valerie Isaac, Division Chief, Environmental Sustainability Unit, CDB  
    Dr. Pendo Maro, Team Leader, Technical Assistance Team, DRRP
    Ms. Lisa Kingsberry, Communications Director, SPC – DRR

    Moderator

    Ms. Cristelle Pratt, Assistant Secretary General, OACPS

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: CDB at COP 29

    Source: Caribbean Development Bank

    The Caribbean needs urgent, scaled-up climate action focused on resilience, adaptation, and sustainable development. At COP 29 in Baku, Azerbaijan, CDB will advocate for greater global support and action.

    Key messages include the need for increased climate finance through a New Collective Quantified Goal, focusing on Small Island Developing States and urging international collaboration on sustainable, climate-resilient development. CDB’s initiatives, such as climate-proofed infrastructure projects, renewable energy investments, and support for climate-smart agriculture, underscore the critical role of enhanced funding and capacity-building in transforming Caribbean economies toward sustainability.

    During the two-week event, held from November 11 to 22, 2024, members of the CDB delegation will participate in dialogues with partners and stakeholders who can make a significant difference in the thrust to modify the global financial architecture to ensure small developing states, such as CDB’s Borrowing Member Countries, receive the support needed to survive this growing scourge.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: COP 29: Strengthening Hydro-meteorological and Early Warning Systems in the Caribbean

    Source: Caribbean Development Bank

    [embedded content]

     

    The side event aims to bring attention to the adverse impacts of climate change through discussion related to strengthening and streamlining regional and national systems and capacity related to weather forecasting, hydrological services, multi-hazard impact-based warnings and service delivery for enhanced decision-making, in particular the preparedness and response capacity of individuals, institutions and communities. The event is informed by the UN’s “Early Warning for All initiative (EW4All)” and the CREWS Caribbean initiatives.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: The Caribbean: Catapulting through Climate Change yet Breaking the Fall

    Source: Caribbean Development Bank

    The Caribbean faces severe climate change impacts now, despite its minuscule contributions to global emissions. The international community must act urgently to provide robust climate finance to break the cycle of disaster and recovery. 

    With united efforts, innovative solutions, and a commitment to climate justice, the region can achieve sustainable resilience. Learn more about the steps we need to take – our future depends on it.

    Read the by , President (Ag.), Caribbean Development Bank, and published by the ahead of COP29.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Expert Forum on Anti-Corruption in the Age of AI

    Source: Caribbean Development Bank

    Dr. Darran Newman

    Advisor to the Acting President (Ag.), Caribbean Development Bank

    Dr. Darran Newman found the work that was meant for her when she started her development career as a sociologist at the Planning Institute of Jamaica (PIOJ).  Today she is a highly competent international development expert with over 25 years of policy-related and field experience from working with multilateral, bilateral development agencies and government, providing global development leadership.  Her extensive experience in social development included integrating gender equality and social inclusion in development programming and policy processes.

    During the period 1999-2013 she worked with the UK Government’s Department for International Development (renamed FCDO) and the European Commission, carrying out socio-political and poverty analysis, and bringing expertise in promoting gender equality and women’s empowerment to interdisciplinary team working and global research.

    As a social development specialist, she conducted social audits and social impact and gender assessments for agricultural innovation initiatives in India and Central and Western Africa.  Championing gender equality and the rights and empowerment of women and girls was a central part of the social development analytical support for Eastern Europe, Tajikistan, Kyrgzhstan and Southern Africa country programmes.

    Driven by a strong urge to support international development in the Caribbean, in 2013 she returned to the region to join the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) as Portfolio Manager for the Basic Needs Trust Fund (BNTF).   Subsequently, she led the Bank’s Technical Cooperation Division for 4 years.  Since 2021 she held position of Advisor to the Vice-President (Operations) and more recently holds the position of Advisor to the Acting President.

    One of her major aspirations is to always be a change-maker and work with others to achieve deep and wide systemic change in the Caribbean.

    Darran has always wanted to be in a position where she could help to create better futures especially for children.  This passionate advocacy for children’s rights led her to investigate child policy implementation in Jamaica.  She has a master’s degree in Sociology and completed a PhD in Social Policy.

    Monday December 9

    Time Zone

    America/Barbados

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Goods Yard hits targets to boost local economy weeks ahead of opening

    Source: City of Stoke-on-Trent

    A flagship regeneration project in Stoke-on-Trent is already having a major impact on the local economy with job opportunities secured for almost 200 people.

    Social impact developers Capital&Centric are working in partnership with Stoke-on-Trent City Council to develop Goods Yard.

    The former train station site, which was neglected for many years, is being transformed into a vibrant canalside neighbourhood boasting 174 brand new homes for rent and 30,000 sq ft of commercial space which will be used for leisure, retail and workspace.

    Already, the development – which is on track for completion in spring 2025 – has added £63 million to the local economy and created job opportunities for 190 workers from the area – 107 of which are local to Stoke-on-Trent.

    Down the line there will be even more opportunities created at Goods Yard with approximately 237 local jobs set to be created in leisure and hospitality and an estimated annual employment impact of £5.4 million.

    It is all part of a joint mission by Capital&Centric and the council to deliver positive social value from the regeneration project.

    Since starting on site contractors Bowmer + Kirkland have engaged with nearly 3,000 students from schools and colleges across Stoke-on-Trent, highlighting a range of careers in the construction industry.

    Ajmal Muhammed from Stoke-on-Trent College successfully completed a placement with B+K and has since been accepted onto a degree apprenticeship programme as a trainee quantity surveyor.

    Ajmal was given the opportunity to work at Goods Yard after attending Capital&Centric’s Regeneration Brainery event, a pioneering initiative which aims to get more diverse young people into property careers.

    Ajmal, who lives in Tunstall, said: “I was offered an apprenticeship with B+K after smashing my interview and getting the results I needed from college, I got a distinction star and two distinctions.

    “I’ve been here a few months now and my favourite part of the site is The Vaults, I’ve just never seen anything like it before it’s really interesting.

    “I will be helping to finish the Goods Yard which is really exciting, then once it’s complete I’ll be moving onto another B+K project. I have just started at Salford University too where I am working towards becoming a Chartered Surveyor.”

    Councillor Finlay Gordon-McCusker, cabinet member for transport, infrastructure and regeneration at Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said: “Ajmal is really enthusiastic about being able to work on this landmark development, and it is great that he has been given the opportunity to hone his skills on a major regeneration project in his home city.

    “Goods Yard is a first-of-its-kind scheme for Stoke-on-Trent but it’s far greater than bricks and mortar. It’s great to see the social benefits coming to fruition with a number of successful apprenticeships and local people employed during construction.

    “We’re very pleased to be working with Capital&Centric and B+K who both prioritise local impact. We’ll also see many more jobs and opportunities once Goods Yard is complete next year, making a real difference to people and the local economy.”

    Tom Wilmot, joint managing director at Capital&Centric, said: “Regeneration is not just about creating new spaces for people to live, work and hang out. Making sure the benefits are felt locally is just as important and takes time and effort.

    “From the apprentices on site to the work we’ve done with young people through Regeneration Brainery we’ve made sure social value sits at the heart of the development.”

    Mona Baig, social value co-ordinator at Bowmer + Kirkland said: “We are pleased to have achieved our social value targets on the Goods Yard project. Engaging positively within the community is of utmost importance to us.

    “Stoke-on-Trent offers a wide range of diverse talents for which we have been happy to provide and facilitate opportunities for on this major local project.

    “We hope our continued engagement with job seekers, young people and local charities within the Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire area will create a long-term positive impact to the local community. With thanks to our supply chain partners, we look forward to continuing our support within the local area.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Everything you need to know about bin collections and recycling this Christmas season

    Source: City of Manchester

    With the festive season upon us, noticeable changes to our neighbourhoods are in full sleigh and are not just about the twinkle of lights or wuthering wreaths.

    There will be important changes to bin and recycling collection schedules over the Christmas and New Year period. Every year, Manchester City Council have aim to make this time as easy as possible for residents with limited disruption. 

    Christmas and New Year Bin Collection Schedule: 

    • Monday 23 December & Monday 30 December – No change. 
    • Tuesday 24 December & Tuesday 31 December – No change. 
    • Wednesday collections – Move to Friday 27 December & Thursday 2 January. 
    • Thursday collections – Move to Saturday 28 December & Friday 3 January. 
    • Friday collections – Move to Sunday 29 December & Saturday 4 January. 

    Regular collection days will resume from Monday 6 January 2025 onwards. 

    Residents can find these changes on their printed bin calendars (delivered in summer 2024) and online, where they can sign up for reminders through our email service, BINFO. This service will send tailored reminders on collection days, ensuring you don’t miss a pick-up. 

    The Council has also informed apartment building managers and social landlords, who often coordinate bin collections for residents in flats and apartment blocks. 

    To help spread the message, a banner has been at the top of the council’s waste and recycling homepage since 1 December, linking to a dedicated page that provides full details on the changes and additional guidance on waste disposal and recycling. 

    An e-bulletin sent to over 28,000 people, social media posts, and a community toolkit emailed to partners has also been used to ensure neighbourhoods across Manchester are aware of the changes. 

    Councillor Lee-Ann Igbon, Executive Member for Vibrant Neighbourhoods, said: “With the festive season bringing joyful celebrations, we understand that many residents may be adjusting their routines. The changes to our bin and recycling collections are designed to minimise disruption during this busy time and ensure services run smoothly.

    “By providing clear information, tailored reminders through our BINFO service, and accessible details online, we’re making it easier for Manchester residents to stay on top of their waste and recycling, while helping to a maintain clean, festive neighbourhoods so everyone can enjoy Christmas and New Year.” 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Winners announced at this year’s Open exhibition

    Source: City of Leicester

    MORE than 20 artists from across the East Midlands are celebrating their success at Leicester’s Open exhibition.

    The annual exhibition recognises the talent of local artists of all ages, with prizes awarded to the paintings, sculptures, textiles, prints and photographs that have been selected by a panel of judges, with the awards generously supported by local sponsors.

    Amongst the winners was Susan Isaac (pictured), who wins this year’s Attenborough Prize.

    Landscape artist Susan won the prestigious prize for her work Balance and Counterbalance (mixed media on canvas).

    It’s the second time that Newark-based Susan has won The Attenborough Prize, having previously won it in 2022.

    “I was astonished and absolutely delighted to be presented with the Attenborough Prize,” she said.

    “I am so grateful to the selectors and judges and everyone involved in putting on this wonderful annual exhibition – one that I’ve been pleased to be involved with since first applying in 2015.

    “Balance and Counterbalance emerged from a recent visit to Blaenavon Ironworks, now part of a World Heritage Site and close to my late father’s coal-mining family home in nearby Llanbradach.

    “The painting depicts a tower for a water balanced lift, used to convey raw materials and pig iron between the different levels of the site. I am always mindful, when visiting such sites, of a strong sense of the wounds inflicted on the land as well as on the iron workers and the miners who inhabited the communities here, both above and below ground, and of the power of the natural world to restore some kind of equilibrium.”

    Jewellery designer Christine Pearson – who’s based in Leicester – won the Leicester Museums & Galleries’ Development Trust Prize (adult category) for Shell Collection – a wooden box containing10 kiln-fired enamel on copper brooches.

    Describing the work, Christine said it depicted “fantasmagorical (sic) creatures from the little-known oceans surrounding the ancient seaport of Leicester.”

    Writing on Facebook, she added: “I’m so thrilled to have won the Leicester Museums and Galleries Trust Prize at the Leicester Open exhibition!

    “My box of enamelled shells was inspired from years of looking at Victorian collections in museums and old houses, and childhood memories of my Grandad’s shell collection, which he kept in a home-made cardboard box.”

    The other winners in the adult category were as follows:

    Art House award: Carol Pairaudeau for Type/Write

    CVAN East Midlands award: Sarah Mason for A Labradoodle’s Lazy Afternoon

    LCB Depot awards: Moya Acton for Nocturn, Katie Richards for Bernadette, Emma Peers for What’s Your Thread Length?

    Leicester Gallery (De Montfort University) award: Emma Peers for What’s Your Thread Length?

    Leicester Print Workshop award: Katerina Luchkova for Reflections of the City

    Phoenix award: Klara Simandi for Textile Flowers

     

    In the young people’s category, the Attenborough awards were presented to Hattie Weller (aged 18) for The Brutality of Life – a collection of clay pieces; Mahi Ghait (aged 15) for Meadow (acrylic painted paper on canvas); Lewis Holmes (aged 9), for Look Closer (acrylic paint on canvas, which comes with its own magnifying glass).

    Other winners in the young people’s category were:

    Arch Creative award: Tom Hudson for Waiting

    Art House award: Toby Cross for Phonebox

    Curve award: Elina Roman for Plastic Island

    De Montfort Hall award: Nada Rhimin for Dance Dance Dance

    Leicester Lo-Fi Photography award: Anfisa Denysenko for Architectural Composition

    Leicester Print Workshop award: Henry Dampney for Black and White

    Phoenix awards: Oriel Birks for A Little Owl Looks; Ayah Riyaazi for Self Portrait

    Soft Touch Arts award: Lina Rehab for Afternoon Repose

    Leicester Museums & Galleries Development Trust awards: Tom Hudson for Waiting (16-18 category); Oriel Birks for A Little Owl Looks (11-15 category); Vincent Parker for Arc de Triomphe (5-10 category).

    Open: The People’s Exhibition features works by more than 200 local artists and makers – from complete beginners to seasoned professionals.

    All the paintings, sculptures, textiles, prints and photographs on display have been created by artists aged 19 and over who live or study in Leicester, Leicestershire, Rutland, Derbyshire, Lincolnshire, Nottinghamshire or Northamptonshire.

    Work by young artists aged five to 18 is also on display, with a number of schools in the region also participating.

    The Open exhibition at Leicester Museum & Art Gallery runs until Friday 31 January 2025.

    Admission is free of charge.

    All the artworks on display are available to buy, with prices starting at £50, and purchased pieces can be collected from the museum from Saturday 1 February.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Rosneft has determined the final winner of the “Million from the Family Team” campaign

    Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Rosneft – Rosneft – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    The Rosneft petrol station network summed up the results of the twelfth drawing of the “Million from the Family Team” campaign, within the framework of which participants in the Company’s loyalty program had the opportunity to win 1 million rubles every month.

    “Family Team” is a cumulative bonus program of Rosneft. Its participants can accumulate points by refueling at the Company’s gas stations, as well as at partners. Accumulated points can be used to pay for fuel, goods in stores and cafes in the retail network. You can join the loyalty program by downloading the Rosneft Gas Station application and registering for a virtual loyalty card.

    The “Million from the Family Team” campaign started in January 2024. Any loyalty program client who filled up at least 80 liters of fuel in a month could take part in the drawing.

    In just one year, the Company raffled off 12 million rubles. The winners were clients of the Family Team loyalty program from different regions: Moscow, Moscow, Murmansk, Ryazan, Tula, Kostroma, Tomsk and Penza regions, the Republic of Karelia, Krasnodar and Krasnoyarsk territories.

    The winner of the final draw was an individual entrepreneur from Bryansk, Alexander Shpilchenko. He is engaged in cargo transportation on his light-duty truck and in November filled up with 570 liters of diesel fuel.

    Next year, new prize draws and special offers await customers of the Rosneft petrol station network. You can apply for a Family Team loyalty program card and follow news and promotions in the Rosneft petrol station mobile app. In addition, the app makes your car trip even more comfortable: you can use it to find the nearest petrol station on your route, find out the cost of the type of fuel you are interested in, and the number of points you have accumulated.

    Reference:

    The retail network of Rosneft Oil Company is the largest in the Russian Federation in terms of geographic coverage and number of stations, and the Rosneft petrol station brand is one of the leaders in terms of recognition and fuel quality in the country. The geography of Rosneft’s retail business covers 61 regions of Russia. The Company’s network of operating petrol stations includes about 3,000 stations. In addition to high-quality fuel, the Company offers its customers a wide range of goods and services – from shops and cafes to roadside service.

    Department of Information and Advertising of PJSC NK Rosneft December 23, 2024

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Reprovisioned checkpoint opens

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Chief Secretary Chan Kwok-ki addressed the opening ceremony of the reprovisioned Chung Ying Street Checkpoint in Sha Tau Kok today.

    A pilot scheme for facial recognition technology has been introduced at the new checkpoint, enabling people living or working at Chung Ying Street to access the area unimpeded through “contactless channels” without having to stop and produce their Closed Area Permit (CAP) or use their fingerprint to verify their identity.

    Addressing the opening ceremony, Mr Chan noted that to facilitate entry to and exit from Chung Ying Street, the Government has replaced the former checkpoint made up of marquees with a permanent structure, and for the first time introduced facial recognition technology, allowing people living and working on Chung Ying Street to be the first to use “contactless channels” for unimpeded access.

    He said the Government will continue to explore the application of relevant technology to complement the future opening of Chung Ying Street for tourism, adding that in the future, holders of valid CAPs for access to Chung Ying Street may, upon prior enrolment, pass through the checkpoint via “contactless channels”.

    The Chief Secretary highlighted that in adopting the pilot scheme, the Government hopes to replace the current mode of manual inspections through applying innovative technology to assist users of the checkpoint, enhance its capacity and highlight Hong Kong’s high-quality digital technology as an international metropolis.

    Mr Chan also thanked the various government departments and organisations for their joint efforts in the successful completion of the reprovision project, providing better facilities for Chung Ying Street, an area rich in unique historical and cultural value.

    The checkpoint’s design has integrated historical and modern elements, showcasing the characteristics of Hong Kong’s traditional train stations.

    Its exterior wall is decorated with copper plate engravings featuring a historical train, preserving the history of the branch line. Multiple energy-saving designs have also been incorporated in the checkpoint.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Quality remains top priority for parents in purchasing baby care products in APAC, says GlobalData

    Source: GlobalData

    Quality remains top priority for parents in purchasing baby care products in APAC, says GlobalData

    Posted in Consumer

    Growth in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region is projected to slow over the next few years, impacted by an ageing population, trade tensions, and greater policy uncertainty. However, parents’ focus on the quality of ingredients used in baby care and childcare products remains high despite concerns over their financial situation.  Aligning with this,  37% of respondents stated that high quality products/ingredients mean good value for money to them when purchasing baby care and child care products*, says GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

    Mohammed Masiuddin Shajie, Lead Consumer Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “Consumers in the APAC region remain concerned about their financial situation. In a GlobalData consumer survey*, 55% of respondents in APAC stated that they are either extremely or quite concerned about their personal financial situation. Moreover, in the same survey, 44% of the respondents said that they are switching to cheaper brand alternatives, and 35% stated that they are switching to cheaper stores/cheaper outlets to cope with rising prices in general.”

    Deepak Nautiyal, Consumer and Retail Commercial Director, APAC and ME, notes: “Although APAC has remained a key driver of the global economy, growth in the region is forecast to dip marginally in the medium term, according to the World Economic Forum’s latest Executive Opinion Survey. A slowing economy and the impact of inflationary pressures will influence the growth across major economies in the region. Although consumers are cutting down on their household expenses, parents remain concerned about the quality of ingredients used in their baby care products.”

    Shajie concludes: “Quality of product tops the priority list for parents while purchasing baby care products. However, products that are competitively priced will attract more consumers. This is substantiated by a GlobalData survey*, in which 19% of the respondents stated that they are switching to cheaper brands to save money, while purchasing baby care and childcare products. In the same survey, 14% said that they are switching to cheaper alternatives within the same brand. This is creating opportunities for affordable baby care products with high-quality ingredients. Brands meeting these expectations will earn the trust and loyalty of parents.”

    *GlobalData 2024 Q3 Consumer Survey – Asia & Australasia, with 6,471 respondents

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Domino’s ad strategy focuses on indulgence, customization, and convenience to enhance customer experience, reveals GlobalData

    Source: GlobalData

    Domino’s ad strategy focuses on indulgence, customization, and convenience to enhance customer experience, reveals GlobalData

    Posted in Business Fundamentals

    The advertising strategy for Domino’s Pizza Inc (Domino’s) from 1st September to 30th November 2024 effectively captured audience attention by emphasizing indulgent food experiences, customizable options, and cost-effective deals according to the Global Ads Platform of GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

    The brand leverages its expertise in comfort food, creative promotions, and relatable messaging to resonate with its diverse customer base, reinforcing its leadership in the quick-service restaurant industry.

    Sagar Kishor, Ads Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “Domino’s campaigns emphasized innovation and accessibility, effectively catering to the evolving needs of customers. The brand’s creative initiatives, such as the introduction of the 5-Cheese Mac & Cheese and the ‘Emergency Pizza’ offer, seamlessly combined indulgence with convenience. With a consistent focus on variety, customization, and enticing offers, Domino’s targets to meet diverse customer expectations and enhance the overall dining experience.”

    Below are the key focus areas of Domino’s advertisements, revealed by GlobalData’s Global Ads Platform:

    Indulgent Food Experiences: Domino’s campaigns highlighted indulgent food experiences, showcasing the creamy, cheesy textures of its new 5-Cheese Mac & Cheese. By emphasizing oven-baked quality, rich flavors, and customizable toppings, the creative approach consistently conveyed the joy and satisfaction of indulging in hearty, cheesy meals for food enthusiasts.

    Expanding Menu Offerings: The campaigns successfully introduces the 5-Cheese Mac & Cheese as a new addition to the Domino’s menu, demonstrating the brand’s commitment to offering diverse and satisfying meal options beyond pizza. This is achieved by showing the mac and cheese alongside other Domino’s items.

    Variety and Customization: Domino’s focused on highlighting the flexibility of its menu. With options like the customizable 5-Cheese Mac & Cheese featuring toppings such as bacon or jalapeños, and the “Mix & Match” pizza deal, the brand encouraged customers to explore their unique flavor preferences. This strategy aligned with consumers’ desires for personalized dining experiences.

    Convenience and Accessibility: The convenience of Domino’s delivery and online ordering was a consistent theme. The campaigns positioned Domino’s as the go-to solution for quick and reliable meals, whether for planned dinners or unexpected emergencies. The seamless ordering process and variety of options catered to busy individuals and families.

    Creative Promotions and Value: Domino’s effectively utilized promotions to create urgency and incentivize purchases. The “Emergency Pizza” campaign provided a free pizza for future use, addressing unexpected dining needs. Additionally, the half-off offer for Rewards members added perceived value, appealing to budget-conscious consumers and reinforcing loyalty.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: AD 12-month diagnosed prevalent cases to reach 42.42 million in 7MM by 2033, forecasts GlobalData

    Source: GlobalData

    AD 12-month diagnosed prevalent cases to reach 42.42 million in 7MM by 2033, forecasts GlobalData

    Posted in Pharma

    The burden of 12-month diagnosed prevalent cases of atopic dermatitis (AD) is forecast to increase at an annual growth rate (AGR) of 0.10% from around 42.02 million cases in 2023 to 42.42 million cases in 2033 in the seven major markets (7MM*), according to GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

    GlobalData’s latest report, “Atopic Dermatitis (AD): Epidemiology Forecast to 2033”, reveals AD cases are rising because of the increasing prevalence of environmental and lifestyle risk factors and the increase in incidence of AD in adulthood.

    Yixuan Zhang, MSc, Epidemiologist at GlobalData, comments: “The pathogenesis of AD is unclear and most likely stems from the interaction of a combination of genetic susceptibility, environmental and lifestyle risk factors, and dysfunctional cell-mediated immunity.”

    According to GlobalData epidemiologists, there were around 44% of mild 12-month diagnosed prevalent cases of AD, 42% moderate cases of AD, and 14% severe cases of AD in 2023 in the 7MM.

    AD is a complex disease presenting with a range of clinical manifestations and symptoms, depending on the patient demographic and disease severity. In severe cases, AD is associated with sleep disturbances due to the pruritic rashes that appear on the skin during a flare-up, depression and anxiety, and loss of productivity, contributing to the economic and disease burden globally.

    Zhang concludes: “The highest prevalence is seen in childhood, followed by the middle-aged and older population. A positive correlation has been found between a country’s gross domestic product (GDP) and disease burden. However, new epidemiological patterns are slowly emerging, such as AD prevalence increasing in low-income countries and new AD-onset in adults becoming increasingly more common, particularly in the West.”

    *7MM: The US, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, the UK, and Japan.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: 2024 World Series to generate estimated $814.80 million in sponsorship revenue, reveals GlobalData

    Source: GlobalData

    2024 World Series to generate estimated $814.80 million in sponsorship revenue, reveals GlobalData

    Posted in Sport

    With 47 brands sponsoring the 2024 World Series, the competition’s largest sponsorship deal in terms of annual value is joint between both Nike and SeatGeek, both worth a reported $100 million each. SeatGeek has agreed a five-year deal to become the official secondary ticket marketplace of MLB, as of the 2023 season. Nike has agreed a 10-year deal, which came into effect in 2020 and sees the brand serve as MLB’s kit supplier. Overall, the competition is estimated to generate $814.80 million in sponsorship revenue for the 2024 season, reveals GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

    GlobalData’ s latest report, “Post Event Analysis – World Series 2024”,  reveals that the event generated a reported $714.29 million from domestic media revenue. Fox has agreed the rights in the US to broadcast the World Series. The 2024 World Series winners, Los Dodgers, are expected to receive around $35 million in prize money.

    Olivia Snooks, Sport Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “It is worth noting that the World Series portfolio reflects the brands, which have agreed to sponsor the Major League Baseball (MLB) 2024 season, including the World Series. Aside from the largest sponsorship deals in terms of annual value, Fanatics has agreed the longest deal in terms of contract length, with the partnership set to run for 17-years.”

    In terms of viewership for this year’s World Series, the competition drew more than 30 million combined average viewers across North America and Asia. As reported by Fox, World Series viewership in the US averaged 15.8 million across its platforms, a 67% increase compared to the 2023 edition and the most watched series since the seven-game 2017 World Series. The World Series delivered for Fox the most-watched single-network telecast across all of television on each of the five nights games were played.

    Snooks continues: “The primary reason for such high viewership was that the two teams playing, the LA Dodgers and the New York Yankees, play in the two largest television markets accounting for over 10% of the US population.”

    The 2024 World Series saw a total attendance of 253,104 over five games, making the average attendance per game 50,621. This is the highest average attendance of the World Series since 2003. In terms of ticket prices, according to reports, these were among the most expensive in MLB history. Leading up to Game one in LA, the average price for a World Series ticket in the secondary market was $3,887, according to ticket reseller TicketHQ.

    Snooks concludes: “According to ESPN, the Dodgers and the Yankees have the top two highest averages in terms of attendance across the 2024 MLB season. The high attendance numbers at this year’s World Series reflects both team’s huge fanbases.”

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: BoBC Auction Results – 23 December 2024

    Source: Bank of Botswana

    The Monetary Policy Rate (MoPR) was unchanged at 1.9 percent of the previous week, for a paper maturing on 31 December 2024.   The summarised results of the auction held on 23 December 2024, are attached below:

    BOBC Results 23 December 2024.pdf

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Video: The Future of Growth: Rethinking Prosperity for All

    Source: World Economic Forum (video statements)

    Explore how the World Economic Forum’s Future of Growth initiative is shaping sustainable and inclusive economic models for the 21st century. https://initiatives.weforum.org/future-of-growth-initiative/home

    The World Economic Forum is the International Organization for Public-Private Cooperation. The Forum engages the foremost political, business, cultural and other leaders of society to shape global, regional and industry agendas. We believe that progress happens by bringing together people from all walks of life who have the drive and the influence to make positive change.

    World Economic Forum Website ► http://www.weforum.org/
    Facebook ► https://www.facebook.com/worldeconomicforum/
    YouTube ► https://www.youtube.com/wef
    Instagram ► https://www.instagram.com/worldeconomicforum/ 
    Twitter ► https://twitter.com/wef
    LinkedIn ► https://www.linkedin.com/company/world-economic-forum
    TikTok ► https://www.tiktok.com/@worldeconomicforum
    Flipboard ► https://flipboard.com/@WEF

    #WorldEconomicForum #InclusiveGrowth #Sustainability #InvestingInPeople #wef25

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uquQHM8z0Yw

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Portsmouth sees over 1 million monthly bus passengers as bus usage surges by 22.3%

    Source: City of Portsmouth

    Portsmouth has hit a major milestone this year, with over 1 million bus journeys being taken each month, as figures reveal a 22.3% increase in bus usage over the past year. This surge in passenger numbers places Portsmouth in the top four cities across England for bus travel recovery, with the city ranking as the highest improver in the UK.

    Much of this success is thanks to the ongoing efforts of the Portsmouth Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP), launched in January 2022 with £48.3 million in funding from the Department for Transport (DfT). The Portsmouth BSIP is being delivered in partnership with local bus companies First Bus South and Stagecoach South and has been instrumental in revitalising the city’s bus network, earning the city the prestigious Partnership for Excellence Gold Award at this year’s UK Bus Awards in recognition of its innovative approach to public transport improvements. This is all part of the council’s overall plan to make travel in the city easier, faster and greener.

    Key achievements of the Portsmouth BSIP include the launch of the Pompey ticket range and the Pompey Young Person ticket, aimed at making bus travel more convenient, affordable, and accessible for passengers. These include discounted travel options for students, young people, those travelling in groups or at night, and those hopping on and off for 90 minutes, and the tickets can be used on both First and Stagecoach buses.

    The council have run a host of fare-free schemes to encourage new riders to give the bus a try, which generated over 191,000 extra bus journeys over September weekends in 2023 and 2024, increasing bus patronage by over 46%.

    In addition, the city has introduced two 24/7 bus routes and increased services during evenings and weekends to better meet the needs of commuters and those traveling at off-peak hours.

    2024 has also seen the launch of the Easy Travel Access Fund, which has helped improve accessibility and convenience for passengers with disabilities and additional mobility needs and communities who have found it difficult to access the bus, by providing funding to the community groups, businesses and charities who need it. These initiatives have been vital in making bus services more inclusive and user-friendly for a diverse range of passengers.

    There are also improvements to bus stops in the city, with upgraded information screens expected to pop up in the new year, and other bus stop and bus lane improvements aimed at making bus journeys faster and more reliable have been proposed. These improvements, which are expected to continue throughout the year, will enhance the overall passenger experience and contribute to further growth in bus usage.

    Cllr Peter Candlish, Cabinet Member for Transport at Portsmouth City Council, said:

    “Portsmouth is leading the way in getting people back on the buses, and we couldn’t be prouder of how far we’ve come. Over the past year, our city’s bus network has gone from strength to strength, with over 1 million passengers now using buses each month—a fantastic 20% increase in just a year.

    This isn’t just about numbers; it’s about making buses a more inclusive, innovative, and reliable way to travel. We’re determined to keep building on this success, ensuring that buses remain an easy and affordable choice for everyone in Portsmouth.”

    Simon Goff, Managing Director at First Bus South, added:

    “The Portsmouth Bus Service Improvement Plan has been a game-changer for public transport in the city. We’re so proud to be part of this transformative partnership, which is delivering an innovative, award-winning bus network for local people. This has been a fantastic year for bus travel, as we rolled out Portsmouth’s first electric buses, showing our commitment to delivering cleaner, modern and more accessible travel.

    The numbers of people using the bus in Portsmouth shows what can be achieved when local authorities and bus operators work together toward a shared vision, and we’re excited to continue delivering improvements that make a real difference for Portsmouth’s residents.”

    Marc Reddy, Managing Director at Stagecoach South, said:

    “We are delighted to have partnered with Portsmouth City Council to transform bus travel in the city. The 22.3% surge in bus usage and the milestone of over 1 million journeys per month are remarkable achievements that highlight the positive impact of the Portsmouth BSIP.

    By making travel more convenient, accessible, and affordable, we are not only improving the passenger experience but also supporting greener and more sustainable transportation for the community. This success reflects the strength of our partnership and the shared commitment to delivering better journeys for everyone in Portsmouth.”

    For more information on public transport in Portsmouth, visit https://travel.portsmouth.gov.uk/bsip/.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Head of the Department of Urban Development Yulia Yankovskaya took part in a discussion on the preservation of architectural monuments in St. Petersburg

    Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Saint Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering – Saint Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering – Yulia Yankovskaya, TV presenter Lidiya Vielba and Alexey Mikhailov

    Head of the Department of Urban Development at SPbGASU Yulia Yankovskaya took part in the program “Petersburg – City of Solutions” on the TV channel “Saint Petersburg”. The program was dedicated to the preservation of the historical center and architectural monuments of the Northern capital.

    Together with Yulia Sergeevna, Alexey Mikhailov, Chairman of the Committee for State Control, Use and Protection of Historical and Cultural Monuments of St. Petersburg, spoke live on air. He spoke about amendments to the law on cultural heritage protection zones. According to this document, all pre-revolutionary buildings in the historical center of the city are currently under protection, and in other areas – buildings older than 1957.

    Yulia Yankovskaya explained why these dates were chosen. In her opinion, this is due to the fact that the pre-revolutionary building characterizes the center of our city, and in 1957 there was a transition to mass “Khrushchev” construction. But this does not mean that if the building was built later, it cannot be recognized as a monument.

    Alexey Mikhailov noted that sorting by date of construction throws valuable buildings of the Soviet period out of the protection zone. In addition, a large number of errors related to determining the dates of construction have accumulated. Thanks to the amendments, two new categories of buildings will appear – environmental and ordinary. At the same time, the category of historical buildings will also remain – it will include buildings that require study and are not included in either of the two lists.

    Who and by what criteria will form the lists, why the boundaries of protected zones do not coincide with the boundaries of districts, how many Soviet-era buildings will receive protected status – answers to these and other questions can be found in the TV program with the participation of a teacher from our university.

    Link to the program

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Hockey Santa Claus: HC GUU held a festive training session for the pupils of the children’s club Fortuna

    Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: State University of Management – Official website of the State –

    Last Sunday, in the Arktika Ice Palace, the hockey team of the State University of Management together with the hockey team of the Gubkin Russian State University of Oil and Gas held a New Year’s training session for the Fortuna hockey club under the mentoring program within the framework of the Good Hockey project with the support of the Moscow Hockey League.

    “Before the training, everyone was nervous and didn’t understand what was required of us. But as soon as we went out on the ice, all the guys immediately got to work and gave their all. Such events are necessary not only for the children, but also for us. We helped them, told them and taught them everything that we know ourselves. The children absorbed all the information that was conveyed to them very well, and each of the hockey players saw the motivation of the kids to play hockey. We were pleased to be part of such a training session!” – noted the captain of the HC GUU Andrey Larin.

    The program was created for children with visual impairments or complete lack of vision involved in adaptive hockey and is designed to provide young hockey players with quality support and assistance in mastering this sport.

    “Mentoring” brings together players from the Moscow Student Hockey League with children who need an individual approach to learning and developing hockey skills.

    The special feature of adaptive hockey in this school is the special “ringing” iron equipment. This is due to the fact that children, when playing, primarily rely on hearing, namely the sound of the stick and the ringing of the puck.

    “Despite the early rise, the emotions are only positive. It’s great that the league continues this tradition and holds master classes for children. We have been at such a training session with the guys for the second time. It was very nice to realize that the guys have “grown up” in every sense of the word over 2 years and that perhaps we are partly to blame for this growth. After talking to the players, you are once again convinced of their strength of spirit and love for hockey. Since the training session was before the New Year, we could not come empty-handed and not share the New Year’s mood. I am sure that we succeeded!” said Mikhail Gubin, assistant captain of the HC GUU.

    At the end of the training session, Father Frost visited, played by the assistant of the HC GUU Mikhail Gubin, and our hockey players gave New Year’s gifts to the young hockey players!

    The hockey team “Fortuna” is the first team in Russia of a unique direction: adaptive hockey “Blind Hockey”, which is focused on the socialization and rehabilitation of children with visual impairments.

    Subscribe to the TG channel “Our GUU” Date of publication: 23.12.2024

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Met release photo after serious assault near Covent Garden

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Officers investigating the assault of two men in Westminster – leaving one with life-changing injuries – have issued an image of a suspect they are keen to trace.

    Police were called at 22.33hrs on Saturday, 12 October, by an off-duty officer, who reported being punched in the back of the head in Covent Garden, close to the Royal Opera House.

    The suspect then approached another man in nearby King Street and asked him for directions, before assaulting him. This man – aged in his 70s – was pushed to the ground, and suffered a bleed on his brain. He temporarily lost consciousness, and required 15 stitches to the back of the head.

    The officer, attached to the Central East Command Unit, was not injured.

    The suspect is described as white, around 5ft 9in tall, of medium build, and wearing a black jacket. He was last seen fleeing towards Bedford Street.

    The two victims are not known to each other, and, at this stage, there is no clear motive.

    Detective Sergeant Glenn Smith – attached to the Central West Command Unit – said: “This was a serious incident which left a man in his 70s with life-altering injuries.

    “The attacks were apparently random. We are appealing for witness accounts, or for any information that may assist the investigation.

    “In addition, we are releasing a CCTV image of a man police wish to speak to in light of the incident. Do you recognise him?”

    Anyone with information about either of the assaults should call 101, quoting CAD reference 7846/12OCT.

    To make an anonymous report, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Elmsdale — Crash leads to arrest in connection to stolen vehicle

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    December 20, 2024, Elmsdale PEI – A single-vehicle crash in Elmsdale yesterday afternoon led to the arrest of a 22-year-old man in connection to a stolen vehicle.

    Yesterday at 1:00 p.m., West Prince RCMP responded to a report of a single-vehicle crash involving a car and a telephone pole in Elmsdale. Police learned that the vehicle had been stolen, and the lone occupant fled on foot. Police located him a short distance away. He was treated for minor injuries and arrested. He was released on conditions and will appear in Summerside Provincial Court on February 5th at 9:30 to answer to charges in connection to this incident.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Early Alert: Nephroscope Sheath Issue from Trokamed GmbH

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 3

    This communication is part of the Communications Pilot to Enhance the Medical Device Recall Program. The FDA has become aware of a potentially high-risk device issue. The FDA will keep the public informed and update this web page as significant new information becomes available.

    Affected Product

    The FDA is aware that Trokamed has issued a letter to affected health care providers indicating certain endoscope sheaths have updated use instructions as a result of a potentially high-risk device issue:

    • Mini PCNL Sheath
    • All lots of the following Mini PCNL Sheath models:
    Description Trokamed REF Number UDI
    Sheath, 20 Fr., 130 mm WA2PS20S 04251303810926
    Sheath, 20 Fr., 160 mm WA2PS20L 04251303810919
    Sheath, 18 Fr., 130 mm WA2PS18S 04251303810865
    Sheath, 18 Fr., 160 mm WA2PS18L 04251303810872

    What to Do

    • On November 26, 2024, Trokamed sent all affected customers an Urgent Field Safety Notice recommending the following actions:
      • Do not use the Mini PCNL sheath as a suction and irrigation device.
      • Temporarily remove the nephroscope from the shaft to clear it and flush out kidney stone fragments.
      • Replace the instructions for use with the updated version provided by Trokamed and dated “2024-11-27”
    • Check this web page for updates. The FDA is currently collecting information about this potentially high-risk device issue and will keep the public informed as significant new information becomes available.

    Reason for Early Alert

    The previous instructions for use provided with the device did not clearly describe that the sheath is not to be used for suction and irrigation. If the device is used for suction or irrigation, it could result in reduced outflow through the shaft due to blood, tissue, and kidney stone fragments, which may quickly build up pressure within the kidney that may lead to kidney rupture.

    Trokamed has reported 1 death associated with this issue.

    Device Use

    The Mini PCNL Sheath is part of a nephroscopy accessory set intended for minimally invasive procedures, including examining kidneys and removing kidney stones or other blockages. The sheath is a reusable, surgically invasive device for short-term use. It is designed to bring instruments, telescopes, and fluids to the surgical site.

    Contact Information

    Customers in the U.S. with adverse reactions, quality problems, or questions about this recall should contact Trokamed at k.troendle@trokamed.de or +49 770492440.

    Unique Device Identifier (UDI)

    The unique device identifier (UDI) helps identify individual medical devices sold in the United States from distribution to use. The UDI allows for more accurate reporting, reviewing, and analyzing of adverse event reports so that devices can be identified more quickly, and as a result, problems potentially resolved more quickly.

    How do I report a problem?

    Health care professionals and consumers may report adverse reactions or quality problems they experienced using these devices to MedWatch: The FDA Safety Information and Adverse Event Reporting Program.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: 2024 in Review: Highlighting the Best of Landsat

    Source: US Geological Survey

    What makes Landsat so valuable is its unmatched record, with more than 50 years of data about Earth’s land surface. And it’s all open to the public at no cost. This vital resource continues to monitor change in the world’s land masses and water resources.  

    This year, international reports echoed the message that Landsat is among the most impactful, quality-driven Earth observation imaging programs. Scroll down to read about two such reports. 

    Landsat data has long provided opportunities for improved monitoring and management of all of Earth’s landforms and ecosystems. From delicate mangroves and freshwater wetlands to mountainous forests damaged by fire and landmasses and ice sheets from pole to pole. Landsat is an invaluable resource, helping land managers and scientists evaluate the changes to land surfaces, and then determine the best step forward to mitigate or influence future land change. 

    Scroll through the stories below to learn how applying Landsat data enabled scientists to advance research in 2024. 

    Landsat’s reputation for top quality Earth observation capabilities helps strengthen the partnerships the USGS maintains with longstanding international collaborators. This year, important new agreements were signed relating to the future of Earth observation and the next Landsat mission. These partnerships are made possible by the Landsat 2030 International Partnership Initiative that was announced in late 2023. 

    Scroll down to read more about the new agreements, see highlights from a visiting international ambassador, and learn how international cooperators and their ground station operators keep informed about Landsat.

    Spectral band comparisons between Landsat 8 and Landsat 9 , with those of Landsat Next. Click to enlarge. 

    The new Landsat Next mission will help unlock new opportunities for research studies relating to water quality, crop production and plant stress, climate and snow dynamics, soil health and other essential environmental variables.

    A significant milestone for the Landsat Next mission this year is the selection of a contractor to design, build, test, and deliver the sensors that will be on board the Landsat Next mission’s constellation of 3 identical satellites. Each sensor will collect Earth observation data in 26 spectral bands with high resolution. Overall, the constellation will collect about 20 times more data than Landsat 8 or Landsat 9.  

    Visit the links below to hear a podcast and view webpages to learn more about the Landsat Next mission. 

    After 25 years of orbiting around the Earth more than 132,000 times, the Landsat 7 mission is nothing short of legendary. The Enhanced Thematic Mapper Plus sensor onboard the satellite captured over 3.3 million images. Move the slider back and forth on the image below to see the massive growth of the Las Vegas area from 1999 to 2024. The 2024 image marks the satellite’s 25th anniversary and stands as a tribute to Landsat 7’s quarter-century legacy of Earth observation.

    Landsat 7 images of Las Vegas: July 4, 1999, and May 28, 2024. 
    Click to view full size graphic. 

    Landsat 7 satellite images continue to support studies of how land is used and how it has changed across urban, agriculture, forest, snow, and ice-covered areas around the globe, as well as natural and manmade disasters. 

    The magnitude and impact that Landsat 7 brought to scientists and those interested in studying the Earth’s landmasses are summarized in this graphic. 

    Read the USGS News release about the Landsat 7 mission. 

     

    Events captured by Landsat 7

    Landsat 7 witnessed events that changed the landscape on Earth slowly, such as the expanding Las Vegas urban sprawl shown above. Some of the significant events that changed the Earth much faster include the 2001 World Trade Center attack, the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina in 2005, and the Deepwater Horizon Oil Slick in the Gulf of Mexico in 2010.   

    The images and podcasts linked below provide just a glimpse into the 25 years of Landsat 7. From its launch in 1999 to sending down its final science mission data in 2024, this historic mission helped us appreciate and better understand Earth’s land surfaces. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: 2024 in Review: EROS Celebrates Annual NLCD, Landsat 7’s 25-Year Mission

    Source: US Geological Survey

    This was a landmark year for the definitive land cover resource for the United States that’s produced at EROS: the National Land Cover Database (NLCD). The renamed Annual NLCD data release on October 24, 2024, debuted a new ability to look at land cover and land change year by year further back in time, from 1985 to 2023. 

    Landsat satellites continue to provide the foundational data for Annual NLCD, which includes six products. Work is underway to add 2024 data to Annual NLCD in 2025. Data access has expanded to the commercial cloud and the USGS website EarthExplorer.   

    More about Annual NLCD

    An example of LANDFIRE’s Existing Vegetation Type in Utah.

    The LANDFIRE (Landscape Fire and Resource Management Planning Tools) program celebrated a big milestone in 2024—its 20th anniversary of working to provide valuable national landscape data on vegetation, wildland fuel and fire regimes. 

    But the biggest news for the interagency program hosted at EROS was releasing its first truly annual update, LANDFIRE 2023 Update, and debuting a remarkably early preview of land disturbances, for most of 2023 at the end of January 2024. 

    EROS is always communicating about its latest innovations and improvements in science. Here are some key ways that happened in 2024:

    • Scientists traveled to multiple workshops, including Geo Week, JACIE and the annual meeting of the American Geophysical Union (AGU). In addition to presenting posters and talks, several of them earned awards for their work. See slideshow at left.
    • More than 100 EROS authors published 28 journal articles, 15 technical reports, 25 conference abstracts or posters and 55 data releases. Click below to learn more about a few highlighted topics.
    • Scientists from around the world use EROS data and science in their own research. Read stories spotlighting those studies below. 

    Publications and Data Releases

    Researchers Use EROS Data

    Animation of Landsat 7 images of Las Vegas, 1999-2024.

    Landsat’s claim to fame is its 50-plus-year history of Earth observation—and Landsat 7 was active for half of that time. In 2024 as Landsat 7 reached the end of its mission, EROS remembered the milestones during its lifespan. 

    We also celebrated the outstanding annual value Landsat provides for the United States ($25.6 billion!) and leaned into the satellite mission’s future with Landsat Next.  

    To scroll through our Landsat highlights for 2024, use the < and > arrows below. 

    EROS welcomed visitors from abroad as well as student researchers, interns and schoolkids this year—and even classic Dodge automobiles!

    New for 2024 is a six-screen interactive display in front of Computer Room 2, where our high-performance computers are located. Visitors can take a deep dive into the sophisticated world of data at EROS (but in a user-friendly way).

    Also new: The EROS Media Gallery now can be searched by spinning the globe and picking a location. Readers can find our updated State Mosaics, Image of the Week gallery, Earthshots, Earth as Art and other favorites via keyword, too.

    Read on for a review of what’s new in our imagery and videos, educational Earthshots and insightful podcasts.

    We don’t mind bragging—our Image of the Week videos are beautiful to watch! 

    But our 2024 additions also reveal real benefits of Landsat imagery and data, from new dams being filled to old dams being destroyed, from drought in Mexico to ice routes in Finland. 

    Don’t start clicking on the links below at bedtime—they’re endlessly fascinating! On the other hand, for a beautiful, restful sleep, try our new hourlong video featuring Landsat imagery and peaceful music.

    What happens during a Landsat pass? Listen to Episode 129 to learn more.

    Eyes on Earth is a podcast on remote sensing, Earth observation, land change and science. Our episodes in 2024 looked at Landsat’s past, its future, and how scientists apply the vast archive.

    Scroll across the images above or below to listen to some of our favorites. Here are some highlights:

    127: The Historic Landsat 7 Mission. We talked with some of the people who helped keep Landsat 7 flying during its nearly 25 years of land imaging.

    126: Annual NLCD. This new release includes land cover data of the United States for every year back to 1985.

    117: Preparing for Landsat Next, Part 1. Several people involved with the next Landsat mission talk about the details.

    114: The Color of Water with Landsat. An old data technique in freshwater science—physically sampling lake water—becomes reinvented using satellite technology.

    MIL OSI USA News –