NewzIntel.com

Category: AM-NC

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Partners gather at Guildhall for Climate Action conference

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    Partners gather at Guildhall for Climate Action conference

    18 October 2024

    Some of the leading voices in the campaign for Sustainability and Climate Action gathered this week at the Guildhall for the Derry and Strabane Sustainability and Climate Commission Launch and Community Showcase 2024 Event.

    The event marked the official launch of the Derry & Strabane Sustainability and Climate Commission, a significant cross-sectoral partnership dedicated to working together to identify solutions that meet the climate and ecological needs of the City and District, as well as the broader region.

    Established in January 2024, the Commission is the second of its kind in N. Ireland and members stem from Northern Ireland government departments, agencies, communities, education, and business.

    Mayor of Derry and Strabane, Councillor Lilian Seenoi Barr opened the event, reaffirming Derry City and Strabane District Council’s commitment to working with local partners to address the climate and ecological crisis. “I was delighted to see so many organisations represented at today’s conference, and the shared commitment to pioneering cross-sectoral sustainability and climate action,” she declared. “As a Council we have been working to deliver our Climate Pledge towards a net zero, climate resilient City & District by 2045, but we recognise that we need to work collaboratively with everyone to turn this ambition into action.  In order to bring about impactful and sustainable change on a scale that will really protect and preserve our natural environment and local communities, it’s essential that we work together and draw on the expertise and resources of a wide range of partners,” she stressed.

    The Derry and Strabane Sustainability and Climate Commission chair Professor Ian Montgomery from Ulster University said: “Climate change is the greatest threat facing humanity, with the last ten years being the warmest on record, with shifting weather patterns causing difficulties worldwide. It is incumbent on all of us as world citizens to cutting our carbon emissions and playing our part in saving our planet – the only home we’ve ever known. Derry City and Strabane District Council have shown great leadership in bringing together stakeholders from many sectors to debate and plan how their Climate Commission can take a leading role in positive climate action for all their citizens.”

    Climate Programme Manager with Council, who hosted the event, Cathy Burns, said afterwards: “The conference provided an opportunity to unite national leaders, policymakers, industry experts, and community leaders to address the pressing challenges presented by the climate and ecological crisis. There is recognition by all our partners that we urgently need to address issues of sustainability, biodiversity loss, greenhouse gas emissions and the preservation of our natural environment for the betterment of all our communities. We had the chance to look at some of the fantastic work already ongoing across Derry and Strabane and to hear from some of the leading voices on pioneering climate and sustainability strategies.

    “We are now calling on our communities, businesses, public sector and education to get involved and be part of the dialogue. We need to work in partnership to find solutions and create a better future for all.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Note to Correspondents: On Mogadishu visit, top official reaffirms UN support for Somalia

    Source: United Nations secretary general

    Wrapping up a two-day visit to Somalia, the United Nations Under-Secretary-General for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs, Rosemary DiCarlo, today reaffirmed the world body’s support for the country’s peace- and state-building.

    “The UN has been a longstanding partner to Somalia and remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting the Somali government and its people,” Ms. DiCarlo said.

    “Together, we aim to build on the commendable achievements and priorities agreed upon to address key development challenges facing the country – we stand ready to work alongside the Federal Government of Somalia to accomplish this,” she added.

    While in the Somali capital, Ms. DiCarlo met with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and senior members of his team for wide-ranging discussions, in addition to meeting with representatives of civil society.

    In her meeting with the President, Ms. DiCarlo noted Somalia’s many achievements in the past year, including debt relief under the Heavily Indebted Poor Countries Initiative, the accession to the East African Community, and the lifting of the arms embargo.

    Looking forward, she offered her congratulations on Somalia taking up a seat on the UN Security Council in 2025-26. She also underscored the commitment of the UN to continue to support Somalia in the period ahead and to work closely on the proposed transition of UNSOM.

    While in Mogadishu, the Under-Secretary-General met with the Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission for Somalia and Head of the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), Ambassador Mohammed El-Amine Souef. They discussed ATMIS’s upcoming transition to the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) on 1 January 2025. She also met with international partners/the diplomatic community in Mogadishu for wide-ranging discussions.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: What the killing of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar could mean for the Middle East – expert Q&A

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Scott Lucas, Professor of International Politics, Clinton Institute, University College Dublin

    Israel has announced it has killed Hamas military leader Yahya Sinwar in Gaza. Sinwar was apparently killed in a chance encounter on October 16 after a tank unit opened fire on a group of Palestinian men running into a building in Rafah in the southern Gaza Strip. His body was found in the rubble and later identified as the Hamas leader.

    It’s an important moment in the conflict between Israel and Hamas. Sinwar’s death follows a campaign of assassination of top Hamas leaders by Israel since the latest round of hostilities began after the Hamas attack on Israel of October 7 2023.

    Middle East analyst Scott Lucas of University College Dublin addresses some of the key issues raised by Sinwar’s killing.

    How badly Sinwar’s death hit Hamas’s command structure?

    Just over a year after its mass October 7 killings inside Israel, overseen by Yahya Sinwar, Hamas as an organisation is in disarray. It is not just the killing of Sinwar in the chance encounter with Israeli forces in Rafah. Sinwar’s death adds to a lengthy roll call of top Hamas leaders during the past year.

    Principally, this includes Mohammed Deif, who planned the October 7 attacks, and Hamas’s political leader Ismail Haniyeh, who was killed in Beirut on July 31. These three are just the most prominent identities among a host of other senior officials and military commanders killed by Israel in Gaza or Lebanon.

    Sinwar’s younger brother, Mohammed, 49, is likely to take over military command. And veteran figures such as Khaled Meshaal – who led Hamas’s political bureau from 1996 to 2017 – remain. But they will struggle to sustain the organisation, particularly if the Israeli government presses its military advantage and continues to identify and assassinate Hamas’s high command.

    But that does not mean that Hamas as a movement is finished. Mass killing, even of its leaders, could galvanise it in the longer run. Those who survive will move up through the ranks, and the spirit of resistance and resentment could bring in more recruits.

    Israel’s prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, can claim “victory” over Sinwar, Haniyeh and Deif. But victory over Hamas, particularly if Israel pursues an open-ended occupation in Gaza, may not be assured.

    What did Sinwar represent as a symbol of Palestinian resistance?

    For many in Palestine and beyond, Sinwar will be hailed as a martyr and icon of resistance. He was with Hamas from its first years, spent 22 years in an Israeli prison, and took command in Gaza from 2017. He never wavered in his belief that Hamas would prevail over Israel’s blockade, detentions, and military operations.

    But for others, Sinwar may be remembered as a divisive, even cruel figure. He built his career in Hamas on the killing of supposed “collaborators” with Israel. He was suspected of the torture and execution of rivals. And his leadership of the October 7 mass killings may be recalled as “resistance” which needlessly sacrificed the lives of tens of thousands and displaced almost 2 million of those whom he was supposedly representing.

    Does his death clear the way for a younger generation more amenable to a ceasefire deal and the return of the hostages?

    It will take months, perhaps years before we see where that “younger generation” will take Hamas. In the meantime, the interim political and military command of the battered organisation will face their immediate challenge. Can they still get some return, such as the freeing of Palestinians from Israeli prisons and the continued presence of Hamas in Gaza, in exchange for the release of the hostages? Or do they have to accept capitulation, possible expulsion, and Israeli occupation?

    Barring an unexpected change in the US position, putting pressure on Netanyahu, all the cards are in Israel’s hand for now.

    What’s Israel’s next move?

    Ask Netanyahu. He has the option of proclaiming “mission accomplished”. However, that will not be true for many Israelis as long as the hostages are not returned. Without that resolution, Netanyahu will run the risk of losing power if forced to an election and even the resumption of court proceedings over bribery charges if he halts military operations.

    Israel’s expansion of the war into Lebanon has improved his position to an extent. It has reconciled him with the defense minister, Yoav Gallant, who was privately saying Israel had no “endgame” in Gaza. And it has improved his approval ratings.

    So it remains in his interest to continue hostilities in both Gaza and Lebanon. And indeed Netanyahu has signalled his intention to press on. But he has also said that while it is not the end, it is “the beginning of the end”.

    While Netanyahu may pay lip service to the resumption of ceasefire talks, that will likely be conditional on the expulsion of Hamas from Gaza. And with no clear alternative for governance in the Strip, that points – as with the West Bank – to indefinite Israeli occupation.



    Read more:
    Israel: what hardliners in Netanyahu’s government want from the war

    How will Iran respond?

    With the decimation of its Hamas and Hezbollah allies, Iran’s regime appears to have no good options at present. Amid economic and political problems at home and outmatched by Israel in military capabilities, the regime has avoided direct confrontation.

    Iran could continue to pursue “indirect” war through militias in Iraq and Syria attacking US personnel with rockets and drones, or with Yemen’s Houthis lobbing missiles at Israel and again threatening Red Sea shipping. It could expand cyber-attacks and its own attempted assassinations abroad.

    But those options would have little immediate effect, and would risk retaliation from the US and further isolation in the international community. The US is already using B-2 stealth bombers to attack Houthi bases in Yemen.

    So for now, Iran’s leaders and their spokespeople are likely to take the political route, condemning Israel and proclaiming that the “axis of resistance” will be strengthened through its losses.



    Read more:
    As its conflict with Israel escalates, could Iran now acquire a nuclear bomb?

    Can Washington now pressure Israel to do a deal with the Palestinians?

    This is perhaps the easiest question to answer. Unless the US cuts military aid to Israel or comes out for an unconditional ceasefire, it has little if any leverage with Netanyahu.

    How does this affect the US election campaign?

    Foreign policy is rarely a priority for most US voters, and even the mass killing of the past year is unlikely to change that. But on the margins of the US presidential election, the escalating toll in Gaza and Lebanon could alienate Arab American voters from the Democrats in Michigan, one of the seven states that will decide the contest.

    More broadly, the impression of Netanyahu pushing around a “weak” Biden administration could take hold. And in a toss-up election, those margins could be decisive.



    Read more:
    How the Middle East conflict could influence the US election – and why Arab Americans in swing states might vote for Trump

    Scott Lucas does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. What the killing of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar could mean for the Middle East – expert Q&A – https://theconversation.com/what-the-killing-of-hamas-leader-yahya-sinwar-could-mean-for-the-middle-east-expert-qanda-241699

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Statement on National Hate Crime Awareness Week | Westminster City Council

    Source: City of Westminster

    Statement from the Leader of the Council, Councillor Adam Hug on Friday 18 October.

    National Hate Crime Awareness Week is more pertinent than ever following the appalling events seen during the summer, which again highlighted the shameful prevalence of hate crimes. Politicians have a responsibility to promote cohesion rather than sow division and inflame tensions. We must challenge hateful sentiment head on, in order to ensure that such scenes do not occur again. 

    The week ahead is an important opportunity to show solidarity with those affected by hate crime, and to underline the ambition to rid society of prejudice and discrimination. I am proud to be standing alongside many local government colleagues and leaders across the UK in support of this campaign. 

    My hope is for Westminster to be a City where everyone feels welcome, regardless of ethnicity, race, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion or disability. I am proud that it is home to people from across the world as well hosting, in Soho, a historic and symbolic home for the UK’s LGBTQ+ community.  Everyone who lives, works and studies here should feel able to live without fear. 

    I would like to encourage people who are subjected to, or witness harmful or hateful incidents in the borough, to report it to the Police and seek help from our community partners. The impacts of hate crime can be devastating and we are here to offer support where possible to victims, their families and loved ones. This council will continue to celebrate our diverse communities and our differences, as well as those things that unite us. We will always strive to improve the support our communities receive. There is not, and never will be, a place for hate in Westminster. 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Southsea Coastal Scheme starts new stage of sea defence

    Source: City of Portsmouth

    The latest stage of the Southsea Coastal Scheme will get underway between Blue Reef Aquarium and the Hovertravel terminal on Monday 21 October, with the area due to reopen in summer 2026.

    During construction, Clarence Esplanade and the promenade and road will be closed and a diversion route will be in place for pedestrians and road users. A temporary footpath across Southsea Common, behind the Naval War Memorial, has been constructed to provide pedestrian access along the area during construction.

    Nearby businesses including the Blue Reef Aquarium, Hovertravel and Clarence Pier will remain open, but The Beach Club and Southsea Rowing Club will close. The Rowing Club has been relocated to a temporary building in Pier Road.

    Cllr Steve Pitt, Leader of Portsmouth City Council, said:

    “The temporary closure of this area is necessary for building essential sea defences to protect Portsmouth for the next 100 years.

    “The coastal team has worked hard to ensure that access around the area is as smooth as possible and, in particular, putting measures in place at the Naval War Memorial.

    “Looking forward, we’ve identified Serpentine Square as a great location for placing artwork along the seafront so that will be an exciting future project for local artists to get involved in.”

    Guy Mason, Project Director of the Southsea Coastal Scheme, added:

    “I’d like to thank the public for their patience as we work to improve the seafront area alongside building the sea defence.

    “Looking at the completed areas around Long Curtain Moat and Southsea Castle, it’s clear that we have vastly enhanced the features along the seafront and, as a result, seen increased visitors to the areas. We’re looking forward to doing the same at this already imposing section of the seafront.”

    Once reopened, visitors to the section of seafront between Blue Reef Aquarium and Hovertravel can expect to see several changes for the better, including:

    • A one-way road system (westbound) with a single carriageway and a reduction in speed limit from 30mph to 20mph.
    • A 3m wide two-way cycle lane running alongside the promenade, segregated from carparking by a 2m buffer strip.
    • An 8m wide promenade in most areas.
    • Grade II listed memorials placed centrally along the promenade to create a ‘memorial walk’.
    • Coastal planted terraces, play areas, new lighting and seating.

    In December 2024, the coastal defences phase between the Pyramids and Speakers’ Corner is scheduled to open.

    The entire scheme is due for completion in early 2029.

    The Portsmouth City Council project is the largest local authority led flood defence scheme in the UK, worth £180m.

    Find out more about this phase of the scheme on the Southsea Coastal Scheme website.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Change of British High Commissioner to Cyprus: Michael Tatham

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Mr Michael Tatham CMG has been appointed British High Commissioner to the Republic of Cyprus in succession to Mr Irfan Siddiq OBE

    Mr Michael Tatham CMG has been appointed British High Commissioner to the Republic of Cyprus in succession to Mr Irfan Siddiq OBE who will be transferring to another Diplomatic Service appointment.  Mr Tatham will take up his appointment during November 2024.

    Curriculum vitae

    Full name: Michael Harry Tatham

      2023 to 2024 FCDO, Delivery Director European Political Community Summit
      2018 to 2022 Washington DC, Deputy Head of Mission (Chargé d’Affaires, 2019-20)
      2015 to 2017 FCO, Director Eastern Europe and Central Asia
      2011 to 2015 UK Mission to the United Nations, New York, Political Counsellor
      2008 to 2011 Sarajevo, Her Majesty’s Ambassador
      2006 to 2008 FCO, Head of Western Balkans Department
      2002 to 2005 Prague, Deputy Head of Mission
      1999 to 2002 10 Downing Street, Private Secretary (Foreign Affairs) to the Prime Minister
      1997 to 1999 Sofia, Deputy Head of Mission
      1995 to 1996 FCO, Private Secretary to Minister for Europe
      1995 FCO, Head of East Mediterranean Section, Southern European Department
      1993 to 1995 FCO, European Union Department (Internal)
      1989 to 1993 Prague, Third later Second Secretary (Political/Press)
      1987 to 1988 FCO, Namibia Desk Officer, Southern African Department
      1987 Joined FCO

    Updates to this page

    Published 18 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Zambia: Authorities must immediately release arrested journalist Thomas Allan Zgambo  

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Responding to the arrest of Zambian journalist Thomas Allan Zgambo in Lusaka, Amnesty International’s Deputy Director for East and Southern Africa, Vongai Chikwanda, said: 

    “Zambian authorities must immediately and unconditionally release journalist Thomas Allan Zgambo and stop targeting him simply for doing his job.  

    Journalism is not a crime. In fact, Zambia’s Constitution guarantees the right to freedom of expression and media freedom.

    Vongai Chikwanda, Amnesty International Deputy Regional Director for East and Southern Africa

    “Journalism is not a crime. In fact, Zambia’s Constitution guarantees the right to freedom of expression and media freedom. Authorities must uphold their constitutional and international human rights obligations and allow journalists to freely carry out their work.” 

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Lo Chung-mau meets GD, SZ officials

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Secretary for Health Prof Lo Chung-mau led a delegation to Shenzhen today to meet health officials of Guangdong Province and Shenzhen Municipality.

    He met Health Commission of Guangdong Province Deputy Director-General Deng Linfeng, Guangdong Provincial Medical Products Administration Deputy Commissioner Wang Ling and Public Hygiene & Health Commission of Shenzhen Municipality Deputy Director Li Chuang.

    Prof Lo introduced to them the initiatives on developing Hong Kong into an international health and medical innovation hub and aspects of deepening medical collaboration in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA), as set out in the 2024 Policy Address.

    The health chief noted that the Resolution of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee on Further Deepening Reform Comprehensively to Advance Chinese Modernization adopted by the Third Plenary Session of the 20th CPC Central Committee mentions further reform of the medical and healthcare systems and support for the development of innovative drugs and medical devices.

    The Development Plan for Shenzhen Park of Hetao Shenzhen-Hong Kong Science & Technology Innovation Co-operation promulgated by the State Council put forward the synergistic development of Shenzhen and Hong Kong under the “one zone, two park” model, expressing clear support for the innovative application of advanced biomedicine technologies by capitalising on the role of the GBA International Clinical Trial Centre, he added.

    “The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government is determined to leverage the advantages of ‘one country, two systems’ and Hong Kong’s healthcare professional system to develop Hong Kong into an international health and medical innovation hub to expedite patients’ access to advanced diagnostic and treatment services, and promote the development of the biomedicine research and development industry, while actively integrating into the national development by showing support for fostering new quality productive forces in biomedical technology, as set out in the aforesaid resolution and the development plan.”

    During the meeting, various medical collaboration initiatives in the GBA such as expanding cross-boundary health record sharing, promoting specialist training in the bay area and extending the Elderly Health Care Voucher GBA Pilot Scheme were also discussed.

    Prof Lo added that the Health Bureau will implement various co-operation initiatives with the Mainland as put forward in the Policy Address and deepen medical and healthcare collaboration with the Mainland, in particular the GBA Mainland cities.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: NPS Salutes Outgoing Dean of Students, SEAL “Bull Frog” Takes Over

    Source: United States Navy

    Martinsen, a Fulbright scholar and NPS Department of Applied Mathematics associate professor, was asked to step-in as Dean of Students over the last year to fill a critical gap. He will now return to teaching, in addition to his new duties as Associate Provost for Academic Affairs.

    NPS President retired Vice Adm. Ann Rondeau commended Martinsen for ably leading his team and the NPS student body through four graduations, incoming classes and the implementation of an initiative to vastly increase the number of newly commissioned ensigns coming directly from the U.S. Naval Academy and other commissioning programs.

    “Our students are the mission at NPS, and Capt. Martinsen has always put their success at the forefront of his work,” said Rondeau. “He did not hesitate to say yes when asked to take the Dean of Students role, and like the true leader he is, Martinsen set the bar even higher for his team, and inspired us all by his personal commitment to the institution.”

    For his accomplishments and exceptionally meritorious performance, Rondeau presented Martinsen with the Legion of Merit. He then spoke to the audience, offering his gratitude for the unique opportunity to lead NPS students, especially noting the hard work of his student services team who process graduating and incoming resident students, which in June alone totaled more than 800.

    “Student Services is not just an outstanding team, it’s a family into which I was welcomed and am proud to have been a part of during my time as Dean of Students,” Martinsen remarked. “For me, it is hard to put into words just how rewarding it is to see our warrior scholar students grow academically. If ever there was a doubt as to how this country will respond to the myriad of challenges we currently face, one need only look to the skill, strength, and motivation of these young leaders to know that we will be alright.”

    Rondeau also commented on NPS’ extraordinary good fortune to have a leader of Skalski’s caliber as incoming Dean of Students.  “He is a warrior’s leader,” Rondeau said, noting Skalski’s career as a Navy SEAL who comes to NPS directly from Commander, Task Force 66, part of U.S. Naval Forces Europe and Africa / U.S. Sixth Fleet.

    Skalski’s achievements as a Navy SEAL and commander through multiple conflicts over his near 40-year career bring a distinct operational focus to his tenure as NPS Dean of Students. In addition, Skalski’s time in service makes him the 19th “Bull Frog” in the SEAL community, a moniker given to their to longest serving active-duty member, and is a measure of leadership that makes him ideally suited to command the student military element at NPS.

    Martinsen and Skalski then read their orders. As is the time-honored tradition for a change of command, Martinsen turned to Skalski and said, “I am ready to be relieved,” to which Skalski then replied, “I relieve you.” He then took to the podium to offer his thoughts to the assembled audience as NPS’ new Dean of Students.

    “The opportunity to serve here at Naval Postgraduate School is truly a gift and an opportunity,” he said. “There are many challenges ahead. While I saw technology advances in artificial intelligence, and the integration of robotics and autonomous systems change the fabric of the battlefield in real-time, the human element will always be the decisive difference. This is where our asymmetric advantage, the warfighter or in this case, the NPS graduate student, comes in.”

    “I’ve seen the power of teamwork and resilience during my career,” he continued. “I know that with the talent and dedication in this room and across the NPS campus, we can turn these challenges into opportunities.”

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: NATO Secretary General: Strengthening deterrence “top priority”

    Source: NATO

    NATO Defence Ministers wrapped up two days of talks on Friday (18 October) with a commitment to further support Ukraine, strengthen ties with partners in the Asia-Pacific and reinforce the Alliance’s deterrence and defence.

    “Strengthening our deterrence and defence is this Alliance’s top priority, because keeping our one billion people safe is NATO’s most sacred duty,” NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte said after the meeting. The Secretary General cited greater defence industrial capacity, more secure supply chains, and new technologies as critical to ensuring the Alliance’s security. Mr. Rutte added that NATO was making a fresh push for common munitions standards and more joint procurement to drive down costs and improve ease of use among Allies. NATO operations in the Western Balkans and Iraq were also on the agenda.

    Addressing the issue of Allied airspace breached by Russian drones, the Secretary General said that air and missile defence remains an Alliance priority. He highlighted the airspace violation in Romania yesterday and affirmed NATO’s solidarity with Romania, commending Romanian authorities and SACEUR for “their quick and effective response.” This was possible, in part, because NATO is stepping up surveillance on its eastern flank as part of a broader effort to reinforce deterrence. Mr Rutte went on to emphasise that Allies are purchasing hundreds of modern fighter aircraft and air defences systems.  

    Warning of Russia’s “increasingly irresponsible rhetoric”, the Secretary General said the Alliance’s nuclear deterrent remains “vital” to preserve peace, prevent coercion and deter aggression.

    On Thursday (17 October), NATO Defence Ministers were joined for the first time by their counterparts from Australia, Japan, the Republic of Korea and New Zealand for talks on common security challenges, including in the context of Ukraine and the support that China, North Korea, and Iran are providing to Russia’s war effort.

    Later on Thursday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky joined Ministers in the NATO-Ukraine Council and provided an overview of his plan for ending the war. The discussion among Defence Ministers with their Ukrainian counterpart, Rustem Umerov, focused on Ukraine’s most urgent needs, including equipment and training. The Secretary General noted that work is well underway to set up NATO’s new command to coordinate security assistance and training for Ukraine, and to deliver on the pledge of 40 billion euros in military aid. He reiterated that Ukraine’s path to NATO membership is irreversible. “Ukraine will be member of NATO, there is no doubt about it, and until that happens we will make sure that Ukraine has everything it needs to prevail,” he said.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Government of Canada investing nearly $50,000 in Algoma-area textile industry

    Source: Government of Canada News

    News release

    FedNor funds will help support the expansion of Masters Fibre Mill and Alpaca Farm

    October 18, 2024 – Richards Landing, Ontario – Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario – FedNor

    Terry Sheehan, Member of Parliament for Sault Ste. Marie, and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Labour and Seniors, today announced an unconditionally repayable FedNor investment of $47,752 in the Masters Fibre Mill and Alpaca Farm. The announcement was made on behalf of the Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Indigenous Services and Minister responsible for FedNor

    The funds will be used to acquire new machinery and hardware and to receive relevant training, and to upgrade facilities. Specifically, Masters Mill will purchase an automated 3D knitting machine, which will allow the business to expand product offerings, increase revenues, and reach new markets. The equipment will support the creation of products such as knit sweaters, toques, and mitts, making Masters Mill the only company in Canada producing those items using only Canadian fibre.

    The FedNor funds announced today are provided through the Targeted Manufacturing Initiative for Northern Ontario (TMINO), which helps existing Northern Ontario manufacturers upgrade and improve capital equipment used in manufacturing processes, including information and communications technology, to improve their competitiveness and productivity.

    Quotes

    “Small business like Masters Fibre Mill and Alpaca Farm in Northen Ontario are essential to the Canadian economy and critical to supporting communities across the country. By investing in small businesses like these, the Government of Canada is building a stronger economy that works for everyone.”

    –       The Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Indigenous Services and Minister Responsible for FedNor

    “St. Joseph Island is a highlight of Algoma region and attracts visitors from across Northern Ontario. By supporting Masters Mill, these FedNor funds are supporting a local small business, and small businesses support communities. This project will help create new opportunities while serving tourists and customers from near and far.”

    –       Terry Sheehan, Member of Parliament for Sault Ste. Marie, and Parliamentary secretary to the Minister of Labour and Seniors

    “The work we do at Masters Fibre Mill and Alpaca Farm is a labour of love. This project will allow us to create farm-to-fashion garments, which will help turn Canadian fibres into 100% designed and made-in-Canada finished products. We are proud to partner with FedNor in growing our business, and look forward to the future opportunities their investment will help create.”

    –       Lorna Masters, Owner, Masters Fibre Mill and Alpaca Farm

    Quick facts

    • Masters Fibre Mill and Alpaca Farm, located on St. Joseph Island, mills fibre from sheep and alpaca into finished products, such as yarn. They also maintain a small herd of alpacas to produce fibre.

    Associated links

    Contacts

    Jennifer Kozelj
    Press Secretary
    Office of the Minister of Indigenous Services and Minister responsible for FedNor
    jennifer.kozelj@sac-isc.gc.ca

    Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario
    Media Relations

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Some people love to scare themselves in an already scary world − here’s the psychology of why

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Sarah Kollat, Teaching Professor of Psychology, Penn State

    A controlled scary experience can leave you exhilarated and relaxed afterward. gremlin/E+ via Getty Images

    Fall for me as a teenager meant football games, homecoming dresses – and haunted houses. My friends organized group trips to the local fairground, where barn sheds were turned into halls of horror, and masked men nipped at our ankles with (chainless) chain saws as we waited in line, anticipating deeper frights to come once we were inside.

    I’m not the only one who loves a good scare. Halloween attractions company America Haunts estimates Americans are spending upward of US$500 million annually on haunted house entrance fees simply for the privilege of being frightened. And lots of fright fans don’t limit their horror entertainment to spooky season, gorging horror movies, shows and books all year long.

    To some people, this preoccupation with horror can seem tone deaf. School shootings, child abuse, war – the list of real-life horrors is endless. Why seek manufactured fear for entertainment when the world offers real terror in such large quantities?

    As a developmental psychologist who writes dark thrillers on the side, I find the intersection of psychology and fear intriguing. To explain what drives this fascination with fear, I point to the theory that emotions evolved as a universal experience in humans because they help us survive. Creating fear in otherwise safe lives can be enjoyable – and is a way for people to practice and prepare for real-life dangers.

    Fear can feel good

    Controlled fear experiences – where you can click your remote, close the book, or walk out of the haunted house whenever you want – offer the physiological high that fear triggers, without any real risk.

    When you perceive yourself under threat, adrenaline surges in your body and the evolutionary fight-or-flight response is activated. Your heart rate increases, you breathe deeper and faster, and your blood pressure goes up. Your body is preparing to defend itself against the danger or get away as fast as possible.

    This physical reaction is crucial when facing a real threat. When experiencing controlled fear – like jump scares in a zombie TV show – you get to enjoy this energized sensation, similar to a runner’s high, without any risks. And then, once the threat is dealt with, your body releases the neurotransmitter dopamine, which provides sensations of pleasure and relief.

    In one study, researchers found that people who visited a high-intensity haunted house as a controlled fear experience displayed less brain activity in response to stimuli and less anxiety post-exposure. This finding suggests that exposing yourself to horror films, scary stories or suspenseful video games can actually calm you afterward. The effect might also explain why my husband and I choose to relax by watching zombie shows after a busy day at work.

    Going through something frightening together – like a haunted house attraction – can be a bonding experience.
    AP Photo/John Locher

    The ties that bind

    An essential motivation for human beings is the sense of belonging to a social group. According to the surgeon general, Americans who miss those connections are caught up in an epidemic of loneliness, which leaves people at risk for mental and physical health issues.

    Going through intense fear experiences together strengthens the bonds between individuals. Good examples include veterans who served together in combat, survivors of natural disasters, and the “families” created in groups of first responders.

    I’m a volunteer firefighter, and the unique connection created through sharing intense threats, such as entering a burning building together, manifests in deep emotional bonds with my colleagues. After a significant fire call, we often note the improved morale and camaraderie of the firehouse. I feel a flood of positive emotions anytime I think of my firefighting partners, even when the events occurred months or years ago.

    Controlled fear experiences artificially create similar opportunities for bonding. Exposure to stress triggers not only the fight-or-flight response, but in many situations it also initiates what psychologists call the “tend-and-befriend” system. A perceived threat prompts humans to tend to offspring and create social-emotional bonds for protection and comfort. This system is largely regulated by the so-called “love hormone” oxytocin.

    The tend-and-befriend reaction is particularly likely when you experience stress around others with whom you have already established positive social connections. When you encounter stressors within your social network, your oxytocin levels rise to initiate social coping strategies. As a result, when you navigate a recreational fear experience like a haunted house with friends, you are setting the emotional stage to feel bonded with the people beside you.

    Sitting in the dark with friends while you watch a scary movie or navigating a haunted corn maze with a date is good for your health, in that it helps you strengthen those social connections.

    Consuming lots of horror as entertainment may make some people more resilient in real life.
    Edwin Tan/E+ via Getty Images

    An ounce of prevention = a pound of cure

    Controlled fear experiences can also be a way for you to prepare for the worst. Think of the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, when the films “Contagion” and “Outbreak” trended on streaming platforms as people around the world sheltered at home. By watching threat scenarios play out in controlled ways through media, you can learn about your fears and emotionally prepare for future threats.

    For example, researchers at Aarhus University’s Recreational Fear Lab in Denmark demonstrated in one study that people who regularly consumed horror media were more psychologically resilient during the COVID-19 pandemic than nonhorror fans. The scientists suggest that this resilience might be a result of a kind of training these fans went through – they practiced coping with the fear and anxiety provoked by their preferred form of entertainment. As a result, they were better prepared to manage the real fear triggered by the pandemic.

    When I’m not teaching, I’m an avid reader of crime fiction. I also write psychological thrillers under the pen name Sarah K. Stephens. As both a reader and writer, I notice similar themes in the books I am drawn to, all of which tie into my own deep-rooted fears: mothers who fail their children somehow, women manipulated into subservience, lots of misogynist antagonists.

    I enjoy writing and reading about my fears – and seeing the bad guys get their just desserts in the end – because it offers a way for me to control the story. Consuming these narratives lets me mentally rehearse how I would handle these kinds of circumstances if any were to manifest in my real life.

    Survive and thrive

    In the case of controlled fear experiences, scaring yourself is a pivotal technique to help you survive and adapt in a frightening world. By eliciting powerful, positive emotions, strengthening social networks and preparing you for your worst fears, you’re better able to embrace each day to its fullest.

    So the next time you’re choosing between an upbeat comedy and a creepy thriller for your movie night, pick the dark side – it’s good for your health.

    Sarah Kollat does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Some people love to scare themselves in an already scary world − here’s the psychology of why – https://theconversation.com/some-people-love-to-scare-themselves-in-an-already-scary-world-heres-the-psychology-of-why-240292

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Robot developers keep making it seem like housebots are imminent when they’re decades away

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Carl Strathearn, Research Fellow, Computing, Edinburgh Napier University

    Threepio schmeepio. Tesla

    The walking, talking, dancing Optimus robots at the recent Tesla demonstration generated huge excitement. But this turned to disappointment as it became apparent that much of what was happening was actually being controlled remotely by humans.

    As much as this might still be a fascinating glimpse of the future, it’s not the first time that robots have turned out to be a little too good to be true.

    Take Sophia, for instance, the robot created by Texas-based Hanson Robotics back in 2016. She was presented by the company as essentially an intelligent being, prompting numerous tech specialists to call this out as well beyond our capabilities at the time.

    Similarly we’ve seen carefully choreographed videos of pre-scripted action sequences like Boston Dynamics’ Atlas gymnastics, the English-made Ameca robot “waking up”, and most recently Tesla’s Optimus in the factory. Obviously these are still impressive in different ways, but they’re nowhere near the complete sentient package. Let Optimus or Atlas loose in a random home and you’d see something very different.

    A humanoid robot capable of working in our homes needs to be capable of doing many different tasks, using our tools, navigating our environments and communicating with us like a human. If you thought this was just a year or two away, you’re going to be disappointed.

    Building robots able to interact and carry out complex tasks in our homes and streets is still a huge challenge. Designing them even to do one specific task well, such as opening a door, is phenomenally difficult.

    There are so many door handles with different shapes, weights and materials, not to mention the complexity of dealing with unforeseen circumstances such as a locked door or objects blocking the way. Developers have actually now created a door-opening robot, but robots that can deal with hundreds of everyday tasks are still some way off.

    Behind the curtain

    The Tesla demonstration’s “Wizard of Oz” remote operation technique is a commonly used control method in this field, giving researchers a benchmark against which to test their real advances. Known as telemetric control, this has been around for some time, and is becoming more advanced.

    One of the authors of this article, Carl Strathearn, was at a conference in Japan earlier this year, where a keynote speaker from one of the top robotics labs demonstrated an advanced telemetrics system. It allowed a single human to simultaneously operate many humanoid robots semi-autonomously, using pre-scripted movements, conversation prompts and computerised speech.

    Clearly, this is very useful technology. Telemetric systems are used to control robots working in dangerous environments, disability healthcare and even in outer space. But the reason why a human is still at the helm is because even the most advanced humanoid robots, such as Atlas, are not yet reliable enough to operate completely independently in the real world.

    Another major problem is what we can call social AI. Leading generative AI programs such as DeepMind’s Gemini and OpenAI’s GPT-4 Vision may be a foundation for creative autonomous AI systems for humanoid robots in the future. But we should not be misled into believing that such models mean that a robot is now capable of functioning well in the real world.

    Interpreting information and problem solving like a human requires much more than just recognising words, classifying objects and generating speech. It requires a deeper contextual understanding of people, objects and environments – in other words, common sense.

    To explore what is currently possible, we recently completed a research project called Common Sense Enhanced Language and Vision (CiViL). We equipped a robot called Euclid with commonsense knowledge as part of a generative AI vision and language system to assist people in preparing recipes. To do this, we had to create commonsense knowledge databases using real-world problem-solving examples enacted by students.

    Euclid could explain complicated steps in recipes, give suggestions when things went wrong, and even point people to locations in the kitchen where utensils and tools might typically be found. Yet there were still issues, such as what to do if someone has a bad allergic reaction while cooking. The problem is that it’s almost impossible to handle every possible scenario, yet that’s what true common sense entails.

    This fundamental aspect of AI has got somewhat lost in humanoid robots over the years. Generated speech, realistic facial expressions, telemetric controls, even the ability to play games such as “rock paper scissors” are all impressive. But the novelty soon wears off if the robots are not actually capable of doing anything useful on their own.

    This isn’t to say that significant progress isn’t being made toward autonomous humanoid robots. There’s impressive work going on into robotic nervous systems to give robots more senses for learning, for instance. It’s just not usually given the same amount of press attention as the big unveilings.

    The data deficit

    Another key challenge is the lack of real-world data to train AI systems, since online data doesn’t always accurately represent the real-world conditions necessary for training our robots well enough. We have yet to find an effective way of collecting this real-world data in large enough quantities to get good results. However, this may change soon if we can access it from technologies such as Alexa and Meta Ray-Bans.

    Nonetheless, the reality is that we’re still perhaps decades away from developing multimodal humanoid robots with advanced social AI that are capable of helping around the house. Maybe in the meantime we’ll be offered robots controlled remotely from a command centre. Will we want them, though?

    In the meantime, it’s also more important that we focus our efforts on creating robots for roles that can support people who urgently need help now. Examples would include healthcare, where there are long waiting lists and understaffed hospitals; and education, to offer a way for overanxious or severely ill children to participate in classrooms remotely. We also need better transparency, legislation and publicly available testing, so that everyone can tell fact from fiction and help build public trust for when the robots eventually do arrive.

    Dimitra Gkatzia receives funding from EPSRC.

    Carl Strathearn does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Robot developers keep making it seem like housebots are imminent when they’re decades away – https://theconversation.com/robot-developers-keep-making-it-seem-like-housebots-are-imminent-when-theyre-decades-away-241638

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Vaccinating care home residents reduced deaths, but the effect was small – new study

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By David Paton, Chair of Industrial Economics, Nottingham University Business School, University of Nottingham

    Vaccinating older people probably did avert some deaths in 2021, but the effects were small. And even those small effects on mortality seem to have dissipated during the booster programme. That’s the conclusion of our new study, published in the European Economic Review.

    COVID-related deaths decreased significantly in most of Europe and the US from the middle of 2021. Although this reduction coincided with the rollout of COVID vaccines, it has proved surprisingly difficult to identify the extent to which vaccination contributed to the drop in deaths.

    Randomised controlled trials (the gold standard for testing new treatments) suggest COVID vaccination can provide significant protection against serious illness and death relative to unvaccinated people who have not previously been infected with COVID. But there are reasons the effect of vaccination on mortality may be lower when viewed outside of trials.

    Early in the programme, there were hopes that vaccination would also prove highly effective in preventing the spread of COVID but it has since become clear that vaccination provides only limited and short-term protection against infection and transmission.

    It is also well established that a previous infection provides protection both against reinfection and against serious illness and death in the event of reinfection that is at least as effective as vaccination. Having a previous infection significantly reduces the likelihood of being vaccinated meaning the vaccinated population will include a relatively high proportion of people without protection from prior infection. So even if vaccination provides protection at an individual level, we may still observe population-level mortality rates that are similar for vaccinated and unvaccinated groups.

    The effectiveness of vaccination programmes may also be limited by people’s behaviour. For example, there is evidence that vaccinated people who get infected are more likely to have mild symptoms and this may cause them to take fewer precautions than others against spreading infection. As a result, vaccination may sometimes be associated with more rather than less transmission.

    Taken together, even if vaccination reduces the risk on an individual basis, it does not necessarily follow that it will reduce deaths at a population level. Existing research reflects this ambiguity with some research finding very significant effects of vaccination on death while other findings conclude there was little or no effect at all.

    Our new study attempts to improve our knowledge about the effect of COVID vaccination programmes by estimating the effect of vaccination take up on deaths in care homes. This is a particularly important group to examine. Given that the vast majority of COVID-related deaths occur in the elderly, any effect on deaths is highly likely to be seen in care homes.

    Machine learning used to analyse the data

    We examined deaths from COVID in care homes across nearly 150 local authorities in England from the start of the vaccine rollout in December 2020 until after the second booster dose in summer 2022. We tested whether higher rates of vaccination of staff and elderly residents led to fewer deaths both in total and from COVID.

    One feature of our research is the use of machine learning (a type of artificial intelligence) to isolate the effect of vaccination from other factors that may also have affected mortality including levels of prior infection as well as demographic, economic and health differences among local authorities.

    Machine learning is particularly adept at separating out the effects of a high number of potential explanatory variables, providing much better evidence of when associations represent true causal relationships. In contrast to some other research, we also use a measure of vaccination that takes account of the fact that effectiveness wanes over time.

    We found that higher vaccination rates of residents (but not of staff) did indeed lead to fewer deaths, but the effect was relatively small. For example, an increase in the resident vaccination take-up rate of 10% in a local authority caused, on average, a reduction of 1% in the total care home mortality rate. That is equivalent to about 22 fewer deaths per week nationwide.

    Of course, any reduction in deaths is welcome. But vaccination does not appear to be the key factor in reducing care home deaths from COVID. We also found that the reduction in deaths was restricted to the initial vaccination rollout.

    From September 2021, when the booster vaccination programme started in England, higher vaccination rates of elderly residents do not seem to have led to any reduction in deaths. Based on these results, vaccination is unlikely to have been responsible for the sustained fall in COVID-related deaths.

    Why then did Europe and the US experience large reductions in COVID deaths since 2021, even during times when infection rates have soared?

    There are two explanations. The first is the growth of variants such as omicron that, although highly infectious, are less deadly than variants responsible for the early waves.

    Second, is the rise in the cumulative number of people who gained protection from having had previous infections.

    These explanations are consistent with the experience of places such as Hong Kong, New Zealand and Taiwan. All saw relatively low COVID infections and deaths in 2020, meaning only limited levels of natural immunity had been built up. All then experienced high mortality rates during 2022, well after most people in those places had been vaccinated.

    For example, the seven-day average mortality rate in Hong Kong reached 40 deaths per million in March 2022, a rate far above the highest peak seen in the US during the whole pandemic despite cumulative vaccination rates at that time being similar.

    Even though vaccination probably reduced care home deaths by a small amount in the early rollout period, there is little evidence that the booster programme had any significant effect on COVID-related deaths.

    David Paton is a member of HART (Health Advisory and Recovery Team).

    Sourafel Girma does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Vaccinating care home residents reduced deaths, but the effect was small – new study – https://theconversation.com/vaccinating-care-home-residents-reduced-deaths-but-the-effect-was-small-new-study-241300

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Community sport hub officially opens in Portsmouth

    Source: City of Portsmouth

    Dean Potter, Director of Grant Management at the Football Foundation says:

    “It’s great to see the King George V Football Complex officially open today. It’s a brilliant example of how investment from our partners, the Premier League, The FA, Government and Sport England improves grassroots facilities across the country.

    “We know that facilities like this one in Portsmouth are vital for local communities and will enable more people in and around the area to have great places to play.”

    Cllr Steve Pitt, Leader of the Council with responsibility for Culture, Regeneration & Economic Development at Portsmouth City Council, said:

    “We’ve worked in partnership with the Football Foundation and Hampshire FA to bring this much-needed sports facility to the city, to encourage grassroots football and enable children and adults to play football whatever the weather in a welcoming environment.

    “The health and emotional well-being of residents is of paramount importance to us. We are committed to providing sports and leisure facilities across Portsmouth, which are accessible to all and support a wide range of sporting activities. This is why we are so proud of the King George V Football Complex, built to benefit the whole community.”

    Neil Cassar, Hampshire FA CEO said:

    “Hampshire FA is delighted to be appointed as the operator of the fabulous King George V Football Complex in Cosham. We look forward to building a strong network for the local community and for the grassroots game. We are confident that this fantastic site will unite members from Portsmouth and surrounding areas under one roof whilst welcoming all beyond the local boundaries to consider the site for their own provisions, events and more.

    “There is no doubt that King George V Football Complex will provide state of the art football and ancillary facilities, and we welcome the opportunity to use our expertise and experience of operating three other hub sites in the county to promote, develop and progress this exciting new venue. Working with the collective funding partners, we are positive that King George V Football Complex will be a thriving success”

    Find out more about the King George V Football Complex on Hampshire FA’s website.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Global: A brief history of the muses: the Greek goddesses who provided divine inspiration for ancient poets

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Alison Habens, Head of Creative Writing, University of Portsmouth

    The muses in The Parnassus, a fresco by Raphael (1511). Vatican Museums, CC BY-SA

    In the beginning, there was just one, unnamed, muse. The blind bard Homer (a poet born around around 850BC) invoked her with the words “Sing, daughter of Zeus” in the first lines of his epic poem, the Odyssey.

    Then there were said to be three: Melete (practice), Mneme (memory) and Aoede (song), perhaps embodying the basic creative process of early humanity. Eventually, nine muses were identified, covering every branch of the arts, in the ancient Greek poet Hesiod’s introduction to Theogony, his epic poem about mythical stories and characters (circa 730–700BC). Hesiod, formerly an illiterate shepherd, claimed that he was inspired to write the poem when a beautiful goddess whispered the story in his ear.

    There were muses specifically for comedy, tragedy and even erotica. The oldest was Calliope, mother of the legendary musician Orpheus. Euterpe was the muse of music. Urania guided the scientists. Terpsichore taught dance.

    The muses promised fame and fortune to artists who followed them, but are rarely mentioned by name in the prologues and prefaces of artworks today.

    A timeline of the muses

    Originally characterised as singing and dancing goddesses guarding a sacred spring, evidence for the muses is found in writing by some of the earliest known authors.

    Hesiod and the Muse by Gustave Moreau (1891).
    Musée d’Orsay

    Yet, the muses existed long before reading and writing. It was only later that they were conscripted as the mascots of writers, with some ancient mosaics showing pens and parchment superimposed on their original images. Following their assimilation from the oral tradition into cheerleaders of literacy, the muses are seen waving pens and quills, scrolls and manuscripts in ancient artworks.

    Written storytelling about the muses started in the matriarchal period of prehistory, shifting to patriarchy in approximately 3,000BC, in Ovid’s story of the god Apollo fashioning himself the first laurel wreath. This crown of leaves, which supposedly signified his genius, is seen in the myth of Daphne, who turned into a laurel tree to escape Apollo’s unwanted advances.

    Written by Ovid in Metamorphoses, this picturesque tale may have been a metaphor for the switch from female to male authority. Legend has it that Apollo prevented his muse priestess from brewing, imbibing or smoking laurel leaves, which have a mild narcotic property.

    It wasn’t just fanciful poets in the muse’s congregation – philosophers kept the faith too. In approximately 370BC, Socrates classed “possession” by the muses as a form of divine madness like drunkenness, eroticism or dreaming: “He who, having no touch of the muses’ madness in his soul, thinks that he will get into the temple by the help of art – he, I say, and his poetry are not admitted.”

    Clio, Euterpe and Thalia, by Eustache Le Sueur (1652–1655).
    Louvre Museum

    English poet and soldier Robert Graves (1895-1985) agreed, writing in 1948 that his:

    ‘Inspiration’ was the breathing-in by the poet of fumes from an intoxicating cauldron, the Awen of the cauldron of Cerridwen, containing probably a mash of barley, acorns, honey, bull’s blood and such sacred herbs as ivy, hellebore and laurel as at Delphi.

    Changing times

    These original practices of using drink or drugs to inspire art are still in use around the world today. The muses may hold a pen in one hand and a smoke, or steaming mug, in the other – herbal remedies continue to be efficacious for writer’s block.

    In the Elizabethan period, when a poet’s relationship with the muses was perceived as directly proportionate to their success in romance, loving attention was paid to their invocation in rhythm and rhyme. But post-Enlightenment, it was no longer considered right for writers to invoke a supernatural mentor for literary endeavours. Modern men were influenced by reason and rationality, rather than a deity. Then it was more likely that a dead bard or scene from nature was deemed an appropriate source of inspiration.

    The nine muses on a Roman sarcophagus (second century AD).
    Louvre Museum, CC BY-SA

    Though writing remained a ritualistic practice, and its mechanisms sometimes mystical, the desk no longer doubled as an altar at which the author worshipped.

    Yet writers still often claim “the muse is with me” at moments when the words flow magically. Her voice can be heard in the modern Interval with Erato by Scott Cairns (2015), which name checks the ancient overseer of love poetry:

    That’s what I like best about you, Erato sighed in bed, that’s why you’ve become one of my favourites and why you will always be so.

    For the most part, the muses are missed off the agenda by both the microscope-gazers and the navel-gazers, these days. However, Plato did insist in his dialogue Phaedrus (370BC) that most people are eu amousoi (εὖ ἄμουσοι) an ancient Greek expression that means “happily without the muses”.

    Contemporary theories of creativity do not often mention divine inspiration. We no longer like the idea that the best stories are given to a few fated writers by God, that great plots and characters are bestowed on favoured authors by goddesses. But the answer to that common question all writers are asked – “where do you get your ideas from?” – still seems more mystic, less mathematic and as much supernatural as subconscious.


    Looking for something good? Cut through the noise with a carefully curated selection of the latest releases, live events and exhibitions, straight to your inbox every fortnight, on Fridays. Sign up here.

    Alison Habens does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. A brief history of the muses: the Greek goddesses who provided divine inspiration for ancient poets – https://theconversation.com/a-brief-history-of-the-muses-the-greek-goddesses-who-provided-divine-inspiration-for-ancient-poets-239330

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Speech by SCST at Hong Kong Performing Arts Expo Gala Dinner

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Speech by SCST at Hong Kong Performing Arts Expo Gala Dinner
    Speech by SCST at Hong Kong Performing Arts Expo Gala Dinner
    ************************************************************

         Following is the speech by the Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Mr Kevin Yeung, at the Hong Kong Performing Arts Expo Gala Dinner today (October 18): Kenneth (Chairman of Hong Kong Arts Development Council, Mr Kenneth Fok), Wilfred (Chairman of Hong Kong Arts Development Fund Advisory Committee, Dr Wilfred Wong), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,       Good evening.       It is with great pleasure that we gather here this evening to celebrate the immense success and conclusion of the inaugural Hong Kong Performing Arts Expo (HKPAX).       This inaugural Expo was participated by over 1 400 arts leaders and practitioners from around 60 countries and regions. There were over 100 performances, leadership talks, workshops and networking events of HKPAX, cutting across a variety of art forms. The Expo serves as a testament to the city’s commitment and efforts to cultivating artistic brilliance, fostering cultural exchange and dialogue, and delivering enthralling collaborative and cross-cultural performances for the delight of all public and visitors. It has also consolidated Hong Kong’s status as a global arts hub, further achieving our mission to develop Hong Kong into an East-meets-West centre for international cultural exchange.       I am sure that you have had a taste of our unique glamour at HKPAX. Together with the 2024 Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Culture and Arts Festival to be kicked off tomorrow, the two mega arts events will complement each other and enable Hong Kong to further give play to its role of “bringing in” different cultures while enabling Chinese culture to “go global”. Furthermore, I know some of you will join the tour to Shenzhen and Guangdong. You will be able see for yourself a fast developing cultural landscape with many new infrastructure and collaboration opportunities in the Mainland.       It is also our endeavour to develop our arts infrastructure to bring in more local and international arts productions. Besides the stunning West Kowloon Cultural District and other venues that you have spent time during HKPAX, I am excited to share with you the completion of many more new venues, including the Lyric Theatre Complex in West Kowloon, the East Kowloon Cultural Centre and also a new world-class stadium that can house 50 000 audience in Kai Tak Sports Park in Kowloon. We will be more than delighted to welcome you to Hong Kong again, to experience many more exciting arts and cultural events in these new venues as well as to bring in and stage your incredible productions here.       I hope in addition to experiencing our rich and vibrant cultural offerings, in the past five days you have also made new friends, reconnected with familiar faces, as well as explored exciting opportunities for future collaboration, and on this basis, you will continue to join hands in promoting arts and culture.       Before I close, I wish to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who has contributed to the success of HKPAX. Your dedication and passion have made HKPAX a remarkable celebration that we all cherish.       And now, I would like to say a few words in Cantonese.

     
    Ends/Friday, October 18, 2024Issued at HKT 21:00

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Senior Chinese, Brazilian officials meet on advancing ties

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

    Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang, also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, meets with Rui Costa, chief of staff of the Presidency of Brazil, in Beijing, capital of China, Oct. 18, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    BEIJING, Oct. 18 — Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang met with Rui Costa, chief of staff of the Presidency of Brazil, on Friday in Beijing.

    Ding, also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, said both China and Brazil are important representative countries of the Global South, calling the two countries like-minded good friends and good partners marching forward hand in hand.

    Ding noted that under the strategic guidance of the two countries’ leaders, the China-Brazil comprehensive strategic partnership has shown vigorous development momentum, with political mutual trust being constantly consolidated and new progress made in exchanges and cooperation of various fields.

    China is ready to work with Brazil to earnestly act on the important consensus reached by the two countries’ heads of state, and take the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations as an opportunity to constantly expand the depth, width and height of mutually beneficial cooperation, and promote bilateral ties to a new high, said Ding.

    Costa said Brazil highly values China and takes China as a reliable long-term partner, expressing the hope to make joint efforts with China to make bilateral relations more strategic and comprehensive.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China formulating action plans on deepening capital market reform: official

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

    BEIJING, Oct. 18 — China’s top securities regulator is studying and drawing up action plans to further deepen capital market reform, Wu Qing, chairman of the China Securities Regulatory Commission (CSRC), said on Friday.

    The CSRC will deepen the market-oriented, law-based comprehensive reform of capital market investment and financing, Wu told the Annual Conference of Financial Street Forum 2024 that opened on the same day.

    Wu called for efforts in accelerating the implementation of the guidelines on medium and long-term capital entry into the market, while vigorously developing public equity funds.

    Efforts will also be made to improve the mechanism for coordinated development of the primary and secondary markets, and make the scale and pace of market financing more scientific and reasonable, he said.

    Wu noted that works will also be focused on improving the quality of listed companies, guiding and urging listed companies to optimize corporate governance, improve transparency, and increase dividends and buybacks, so as to create long-term returns for investors.

    Commenting on shareholders reducing their holdings, Wu said data showed that, whether in the past year or since late September, listed companies have not experienced cluster holding reduction or large-scale illegal reduction of holdings.

    He however noted that the CSRC will strengthen the whole-chain supervision on issuance and listing, information disclosure, share reduction and delisting targeting the major shareholders to effectively protect the rights of small and medium investors.

    On supporting the development of the new quality productive forces, the CSRC will focus on supporting high-quality innovative enterprises, enhancing the inclusiveness and adaptability of the system, and reforming and optimizing the issuance and listing system, Wu added.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s consumer goods trade-ins unleash market potential: official

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

    TIANJIN, Oct. 18 — China’s consumer goods trade-ins have unleashed new market demands, with over 1.4 million applications for automobile scrapping and renewal subsidies recorded so far, Vice Minister of Commerce Sheng Qiuping said on Friday.

    As of Wednesday, more than 10.8 million consumers across the country had purchased some 15.6 million pieces of household appliance included in China’s consumer goods renewal program, Sheng told the 2024 Haihe International Consumption Forum that opened on the same day in Tianjin, north China.

    Household appliance trade-ins have driven a total sales of 73.36 billion yuan (about 10.3 billion U.S. dollars), according to the vice minister.

    During the first half of this year, consumption alone contributed 60.5 percent to China’s economic growth, driving its GDP growth by 3 percentage points, said Sheng.

    He said the ministry will join hands with other departments to further boost consumption and consolidate the stable and positive momentum of the market.

    In March this year, China unveiled an action plan to implement the equipment and consumer goods renewal program to expand domestic demand and shore up the economy. In July, it further stepped up policy support for the program with an extra fund injection of 300 billion yuan via ultra-long special treasury bonds.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese vice premier meets IFAD president

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

    BEIJING, Oct. 18 — Chinese Vice Premier Liu Guozhong met with Alvaro Lario, president of the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), in Beijing on Friday.

    Liu, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, expressed the hope that the two sides will further enhance the exchange of experience, deepen South-South cooperation and trilateral cooperation, and contribute more to the implementation of the Global Development Initiative and the realization of the United Nations 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, Liu said.

    Lario expressed admiration for China’s great achievements in development and is willing to learn and share China’s experience and promote international cooperation on poverty reduction and agricultural development.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Statement by the Prime Minister on Persons Day

    Source: Government of Canada – Prime Minister

    The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on Persons Day:

    “Today, we celebrate Persons Day, an important milestone for women’s rights and participation in Canadian political life. On October 18, 1929, Canada’s highest court of appeal recognized women as ‘persons’ and granted them the right to be appointed to the Senate.

    “The Famous Five – Emily Murphy, Nellie McClung, Irene Parlby, Louise McKinney, and Henrietta Muir Edwards – won a hard-fought, two-year-long battle in the landmark Persons Case. While their victory did not benefit all women and girls in Canada equally, it helped change the course of history and laid the foundations for a fairer Canada.

    “Nearly a century after the Famous Five’s victory, Canada continues to eliminate barriers that still exist for women. We introduced $10-a-day child care to give every child the best possible start in life while helping parents, especially moms, build their careers. Our work making contraception medications and devices free will give women more affordable choices to make decisions about their bodies, their health, and their future. We are also accelerating our efforts through the Federal Pathway to address the national crisis of missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people. And through the National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence, we continue to address the root causes of gender-based violence and strengthen supports for victims, survivors, and their families. This is all part of our work to make sure that no woman in Canada faces barriers to what she can achieve.

    “As we celebrate Persons Day and Women’s History Month, I encourage all Canadians to learn more about the Famous Five and their important contributions to women’s rights and equality.”

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Local Tech and Lifestyle Journalists Praise Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold6 and Z Flip6

    Source: Samsung

    In recent weeks, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold6 and Z Flip6 have garnered enthusiastic praise from South African tech and lifestyle journalists, who are lauding these innovative devices for their cutting-edge features and transformative potential in the mobile industry.
     
    The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold6 has been described as a remarkable advancement in foldable technology, with some pointing out its versatility, enhanced performance, impressive build quality and seamless user experience. The improved hinge design and more durable screen of the Z Fold6 have been particularly well-received.
     
    Another key highlight from local reviews is the device’s multitasking capabilities from its expansive display which allows users to effortlessly juggle multiple tasks, making it an ideal tool for professionals.
     
    On the flip side, the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip6 has also captured the imagination of South African journalists and mobile tech enthusiasts with its stylish design and innovative features. The compact form factor and customisation options of the Z Flip6 have been particularly praised. Its ability to fold into a compact, pocket-sized form makes it incredibly convenient, while the customisable cover screen allows users to personalise their experience.
     
    Here’s a look at some of the glowing reviews;
     
    Cody Nery – Tech Journalist, New Age Gaming
    As much as the sub-display (Galaxy Z Fold6’s cover screen) exists for quick and easy tasks, if I‘m really going to spend a good hour editing a reel for Instagram or even more time improving my KDA while gaming, I’m going to open the fold up, revealing its true nature. For one, the larger display allows me to have multiple apps open, which I find makes editing much simpler than having to switch between apps if I need to find a cool song from another app or quickly move files around. It‘s not surprising at all that it’s also amazing to game on the much larger screen.
     

     
    Wesley Diphoko – Editor-in-Chief: Fast Company SA
    In 2024, Apple and Samsung entered the Al hardware race. So far, it seems Samsung is leading the race. Earlier this year, Samsung launched their AI phone, now the South Korean tech-giant has launched a suite of AI-powered products. Last week, Samsung launched its first AI-powered foldable phones, the Galaxy Z Fold6 and Z Flip6. The AI functionality which stands out about the devices is the interpreter mode, which can be used when translating a conversation. The translating functionality has conversation mode and listening mode. The functionality lets the user run the microphone as someone talks in another language, and the user is able to see their speech translated as text on the screen.
     

     
    Thobeka Phanyeko – Lifestyle Editor: Glamour
    Samsung has truly positioned itself as a digital disruptor and innovator, bringing cutting-edge technology that keeps up with the fast-paced demands of modern journalism. Having a trusted companion by my side as the media landscape continues to evolve, is a game-changer! I can’t wait to see what’s next!
     

     
     

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: East Midlands one year on from Storm Babet

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Today, 18 October 2024, marks one year since Storm Babet hit the UK and brought with it extremely heavy rainfall and very strong winds.

    An Environment Agency Officer fixing the Lowdham flood storage wall.

    In the East Midlands, Storm Babet resulted in the highest recorded river levels at 37 locations. As well as bringing the wettest 3-day period that Nottinghamshire had ever experienced on record.

    Storm Babet was then followed by Storms Ciaran and Henk which led to more significant flooding. Flood defences operated very well overall and protected significant numbers of properties in the region.

    The anniversary also coincides with the Environment Agency’s annual Flood Action Week which is a campaign dedicated to showing people the steps they can take to reduce the devastation caused by flooding. It also aims to encourage people to sign up to the flood warning service that informs you if your home is at risk of flooding.

    In the East Midlands alone, the Environment Agency is currently working on 52 flood risk projects to return assets to the condition they were before the storms last winter. These projects have all been created using evidence from the flooding caused by the 3 storms. Designing and delivering Flood schemes can be complicated and therefore take time to establish.

    In the last 12 months an array of projects have been completed to help better protect communities. In Raynesway in Derbyshire the team installed rock amour along a flood embankment. It had started to erode due to the high-water levels caused by Storm Babet and Storm Henk. Quick action was required to ensure the nearby businesses and critical infrastructure in that area remained protected.

    2180 tonnes of stone was used to fill a hole on the Folly Road Flood Bank in Darley Abbey.

    High levels of water also caused erosion on Folly Road Flood Bank in Darley Abbey. 40 metres was repaired by the Environment Agency, Jackson Civil Engineering and Derby City Council. Over a period of 11 weeks, 2180 tonnes of stone was brought in to fill the large scour hole and protect the bottom of the embankment.

    In Lowdham the high river levels caused by storm Babet resulted in overtopping and the deterioration of the flood storage wall. The wall surrounds the cricket pitch and is the boundary to the storage area. The design of the flood asset means when river levels are high they spill onto the cricket pitch. Therefore the flood storage wall keeps the water in that boundary. The high levels of water that was experienced with storm Babet and then continued very closely with storm Ciaran and Storm Henk resulted in further deterioration of the masonry wall. The Environment Agency Nottingham field team worked quickly to assess the damage, take down the damaged stretch of wall and rebuild it. This work was completed in March, less than a month after the last period of storms.

    Since storm Babet the Environment Agency has been reassessing the areas that are covered by the flood warning service to ensure all at risk areas are targeted. This work has so far resulted in 3 new areas being added to the flood warning system in the East Midlands – Rearsby, Syston and Silbey.

    The Environment Agency are also developing a Property Flood Resilience (PFR) programme for those homes affected by the storms, this could involve them being offered things like air brick covers and demountable barriers to have on the outside their home.

    More than 26 drop-in sessions have been conducted in the East Midlands which more than 1600+ people attended. The Environment Agency spent more than 2,000 hours attending and organising these key sessions. The drop-in sessions provided members of the public with a chance to ask any flood related questions they have. The events are attended by our partners who have a role during flooding so everyone the public needs are all in one room.

    Paul Lockhart, Flood Risk Manager in the East Midlands, for the Environment Agency said:

    We know the devastating impact flooding can have this is why we are working closely with our professional partners on a number of projects to protect communities.

    It is important that the public understand their flood risk and are signed up to our flood warning service and educate themselves on how they can better protect themselves and their property from flooding. There is plenty of information here: Flooding – GOV.UK

    The best way to protect yourself from flooding is early preparation and knowing what to do in advance. Some of the actions people can take to reduce the dangers are:

    • Check your long-term flood risk. You can use this free service to find out the long-term flood risk for an area in England, the possible causes of flooding, and how to manage flood risk.

    • Sign up for flood warnings by phone, text or email
    • Taking steps to protect yourself from future flooding – including storing important documents in a secure, waterproof location, taking rugs and small furniture upstairs, checking how to turn off your electricity and water, preparing a flood kit.

    Updates to this page

    Published 18 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Around the Air Force: Overseas Absentee Ballots, TRICARE Changes for 2025, BLUE: An Agile Approach

    Source: United States Air Force

    In this week’s look around the Air Force, overseas service members can send absentee ballots free, new TRICARE contracts impact referrals and specialty care, and the newest issue of BLUE on the Airman Magazine website explores the shift to ACE.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Dandridge Man Sentenced to Life in Prison for Sexual Exploitation of a Child, Production of Child Pornography, and Possession of Child Pornography

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

    KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – On October 16, 2024, Glenn Fred Glatz, 68, currently of Dandridge, Tennessee, was sentenced to life in prison by the Honorable Thomas A. Varlan, United States District Judge, in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Tennessee at Knoxville.  

    On July 28, 2023, a federal jury found Glatz guilty of four counts of production of child pornography in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 2251(a) and (e); one count of receiving child pornography in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 2252A(a)(2)(A); three counts of transferring obscene matter to a minor under 16 years of age in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1470; and one count of possession of child pornography in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 2252A(a)(5)(B).

    According to court filed documents, this is the third conviction of Glatz for sexual crimes against children.  The evidence presented at trial showed that Glatz used DeviantArt.com, a social media platform, to befriend young girls which he then groomed and sexually exploited.  Witnesses testified that Glatz was on the sex offender registry for prior convictions involving the molestation of a young girl.  The evidence further demonstrated that he enticed at least two girls, ages 13 and 14, to produce live sexually explicit videos and images of themselves for Glatz to view over social media.  Additionally, Glatz sent the victims nude images to other young females in hopes of enticing other minors to send him sexual images of themselves.

    U.S. Attorney Francis M. Hamilton, III of the Eastern District of Tennessee; and Special Agent in Charge Joseph E. Carrico of the Federal Bureau of Investigation made the announcement. 

    The criminal indictment was the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.  This investigation was led by FBI Special Agent Bianca L. Pearson.

    Assistant United States Attorneys Jennifer Kolman and Suzanne H. Sullivan represented the United States at trial.

    This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood (PSC), a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006, by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse.  Led by the United States Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, PSC marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims.  For more information about PSC, please visit http://www.justice.gov/psc.

    For more information about internet safety education, please visit http://www.justice.gov/psc/resources.html and click on the tab “resources.”

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    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Ohio Man Sentenced to 15 Years in Federal Prison on Child Sexual Exploitation Charge

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

    NASHVILLE – Barron M. Poole, 50, of Ripley, Ohio, was sentenced today to 15 years in federal prison after having pled guilty to attempted sexual exploitation of a minor, announced Thomas J. Jaworski, Acting United States Attorney for the Middle District of Tennessee.

    According to court documents, on February 2, 2023, a user with the profile of “Barron read bio,” who was later identified as Barron M. Poole, contacted an FBI online covert employee (“OCE”) on an online dating application that is frequented by minors and those who seek to exploit them.  The OCE was conducting an online covert investigation utilizing a profile of an 18-year-old female, which contained a photo of a female’s face. Above the photo was a status block, which contained the text, “hi im really 13.” Poole messaged and texted with the OCE, who he believed to be a 13-year-old girl, asked her to send him nude photographs, sent her photos of nude adult females in the poses he wanted the OCE to recreate, and sent her photographs of his penis and abdomen which had distinctive tattoos. The communications continued for a week. When he was arrested at his home in Ohio, Poole admitted to using the online dating application, and admitted that “Barron read bio” was his profile with his photograph.

    After serving his sentence, Poole will be on supervised release for 5 years.

    This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Clarksville Resident Agency, Nashville Field Office, and assisted by the FBI’s Cincinnati Field Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Monica R. Morrison prosecuted the case.

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    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Press Release by U.S. Attorney Relating to November 2024 General Election

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

    KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – The United States Attorney’s Office announced today that Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) Mac D. Heavener, III will lead the efforts of the Office in connection with the Justice Department’s nationwide Election Day Program for the upcoming November 5, 2024, election. AUSA Heavener has been appointed to serve as the District Election Officer (DEO) for the Eastern District of Tennessee, and in that capacity is responsible for overseeing the Office’s handling of election day complaints of voting rights concerns, threats of violence to election officials or staff, and election fraud, in consultation with Justice Department Headquarters in Washington.

    The Department of Justice has an important role in deterring and combatting discrimination and intimidation at the polls, threats of violence directed at election officials and poll workers, and election fraud.  The Department will address these violations wherever they occur. The Department’s longstanding Election Day Program furthers these goals and also seeks to ensure public confidence in the electoral process by providing local points of contact within the Department for the public to report possible federal election law violations.

    Federal law protects against such crimes as threatening violence against election officials or staff, intimidating or bribing voters, buying and selling votes, impersonating voters, altering vote tallies, stuffing ballot boxes, and marking ballots for voters against their wishes or without their input.  It also contains special protections for the rights of voters, and provides that they can vote free from interference, including intimidation, and other acts designed to prevent or discourage people from voting or voting for the candidate of their choice.  The Voting Rights Act protects the right of voters to mark their own ballot or to be assisted by a person of their choice (where voters need assistance because of disability or inability to read or write in English).   

    In addition, the FBI will have special agents available in each field office and resident agency throughout the country to receive allegations of election fraud and other election abuses on election day.  The local FBI field office can be reached by the public at (865) 544-0751.

    “Every citizen must be able to vote without interference or discrimination and to have that vote counted in a fair and free election,” said United States Attorney Francis M. Hamilton III.  “Similarly, election officials and staff must be able to serve without being subject to unlawful threats of violence.  The Department of Justice will always work tirelessly to protect the integrity of the election process.  AUSA/DEO Mac Heavener will be on duty in this District while the polls are open.  He can be reached by the public at the following telephone numbers: (423) 823-5009 or (423) 218-6652.”

    Please note, however, in the case of a crime of violence or intimidation, please call 911 immediately and before contacting federal authorities.  State and local police have primary jurisdiction over polling places, and almost always have faster reaction capacity in an emergency.

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    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Joint Statement on Arctic Security and Defence

    Source: Government of Iceland

    Under the auspice of the Northern Defence Dialogue meeting held on the margins of the NATO Defence Ministers’ Meeting on 17 October 2024, the defence ministers of Canada, Denmark together with the Foreign Minister of the Faroe Islands and a representative from Greenland, Finland, Norway, and Sweden, and representatives from Iceland and the United States reaffirm their shared commitment to enhanced collaboration on security and defence in the Arctic.

    In a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape marked by new challenges, the region has become a growing global point of focus. Climate change is having profound effects on the strategic and operational environment and growing access to the Arctic’s resource potential is enticing new non-Arctic actors to the region. Potential adversaries are rapidly developing their militaries’ ability to operate both in the High North and the circumpolar Arctic region. Among its many negative consequences, Russia’s illegal and unprovoked further invasion of Ukraine has caused grave impediments to international cooperation and degraded the Euro-Atlantic security environment.

    These unprecedented challenges underline the need to foster deepened collaboration among the like-minded Arctic states. The accession of Sweden and Finland to NATO significantly strengthens NATO’s collective defence posture and capabilities in the region. As all like-minded Arctic states now belong to the Alliance, we affirm our leading role in NATO’s work relating to the region and stress the importance of maintaining a credible deterrence and defence in the entire Euro-Atlantic area—including our northern regions—as well as cooperation with our other NATO Allies to this end.

    At this Northern Defence Dialogue meeting, building on the work of and aiming to also strengthen NATO, we discussed:

    • Our situational awareness of the threat environment in the Arctic, and opportunities to enhance information and intelligence sharing in order to establish a common operating picture;
    • Emerging threats, risks, and geopolitical challenges from potential adversaries at both the national and international level;
    • Our capabilities to deter and, if necessary, defend against threats posed by our potential adversaries in the region, and our commitment to mutual participation in joint operations and exercises to enhance interoperability; and,
    • Ways to increase collaboration to address common threats and challenges posed to the region.

    Our countries’ common ambition to maintain low tension in the region has served as the foundation of our multilateral Arctic relations and will continue to guide our cooperation in the future. Guided by the core principles of multilateral cooperation, territorial integrity, and maintaining the rules-based international order, we are committed to strengthening our collaboration to address complex global challenges and maintain the Arctic as a stable, peaceful, and prosperous region.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Government of Canada launches call for proposals in support of Black mental health

    Source: Government of Canada News

    News release

    October 18, 2024 | Ottawa, ON | Public Health Agency of Canada

    Black communities in Canada continue to face significant barriers to accessing mental health services and supports, including the cost of care, a history of negative experiences related to bias, and overall lack of culturally representative and responsive mental health professionals.

    Today, the Honourable Ya’ara Saks, Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of Health, is launching an open call for proposals to allocate $1M under the Mental Health of Black Canadians Fund. Community-based organizations can apply for up to $100,000 to support projects that seek to build organizations’ capacity to develop and deliver programs that promote the mental health of Black people in Canada. The deadline to submit a proposal is November 15, 2024.

    To be eligible to receive funding, projects must be Black-led, benefit and be delivered to Black communities in Canada. The following activities are eligible for funding:

    • Building and strengthening community-based engagement, networks, collaborations and partnerships;
    • Gathering and analyzing data and information from diverse sources;
    • Consolidating knowledge of what works through knowledge synthesis, mobilization of evidence and/or community resources and assets, and analysis of relevant data;
    • Assessing past and present mental health promotion programs for lessons learned and promising practices; and
    • Developing the design and/or methodology for novel, culturally focused mental health programs.

    This open call for proposals is part of the $4M committed in Budget 2024 for the Promoting Health Equity: Mental Health of Black of Canadians Fund. This funding is designed to support community-based, culturally focused projects that aim to increase health equity and address the underlying determinants of mental health, including anti-Black racism.

    For more information on eligibility for this open call and how to apply, visit the website.

    Quotes

    “When people find the courage to ask for help, they deserve to be met by mental health service providers who see them, and can offer resources that reflect their reality. The Mental Health of Black Canadians Fund is helping make this happen by investing in Black-led community-based organizations that are dedicated to improving the mental health of their community members and the factors that influence it, such as anti-Black racism. Working alongside Black community leaders and organizations is key to paving the way to better health outcomes .”

    The Honourable Ya’ara Saks
    Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of Health 

    Quick facts

    • Between 2018 and 2024, the Mental Health of Black Canadians Fund has provided support for 32 projects, including through the Supporting the Health of Those Most Affected by the COVID-19 Pandemic Fund.  

    • People who experience discrimination due to racism, socio-economic status and/or social exclusion face more difficulties than others in accessing mental health care and supports.

    • The Inequalities in mental health, well-being and wellness in Canada report examines inequalities in mental health. The first of its kind, the report examines how a combination of social, economic and environmental factors can influence the health of individuals.

    • The Distress Line Equity Fund supports projects that address gaps related to equity, diversity and inclusion within Canada’s distress line sector. Distress lines are a vital part of Canada’s public health approach to suicide prevention, and this fund is helping will help ensure distress lines and centres are able to respond to the needs and experiences of everyone who calls.

    • The 9-8-8: Suicide Crisis Helpline is available across Canada for anyone thinking about suicide or self-harm, grieving someone who died by suicide, or worried about someone else who may be thinking about suicide. Canadians can call or text 9-8-8 to access 24/7, bilingual, trauma-informed, and culturally appropriate suicide prevention support. 

    • In 2018, Canada endorsed the United Nations International Decade for People of African Descent, which runs from 2015 to 2024. On February 7, 2024, the Prime Minister announced a domestic extension, until 2028, of the federal government’s efforts within these frameworks, to promote equity, empower Black Canadians, and strengthen their leadership in business, social justice and community. Last April, Canada announced its commitment to support the call for a second international decade.

    Associated links

    Contacts

    Yuval Daniel
    Director of Communications
    Office of the Honourable Yaara Saks
    Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of Health
    819-360-6927

    Media Relations
    Public Health Agency of Canada
    613-957-2983 
    media@hc-sc.gc.ca

    Public Inquiries:

    613-957-2991
    1-866-225-0709

    MIL OSI Canada News –