NewzIntel.com

Category: AM-NC

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Alberta shows once again it is rodeo country

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Canadian Finals Rodeo. Photo by Andy Devlin/Rogers Place.

    Alberta has long been known as the home of rodeo, with the Canadian Finals Rodeo being one of the province’s flagship events. It showcases the grit, talent and dedication of athletes who embody the spirit of the West. The 50th Canadian Finals Rodeo wrapped up this past weekend in Edmonton, leaving a lasting impact on the city and province.

    The annual event celebrated the talent of Canada’s rodeo stars and highlighted Alberta as the heart of rodeo culture in the country. Alberta’s government is proud to be investing $4.5 million over three years, bringing the event to Edmonton this year, in 2025 and 2026, ensuring this world-class rodeo stays in the province, now and into the future.

    “I’m so impressed with the talent showcased at the 50th Canadian Finals Rodeo last week. We’re thrilled to have supported Edmonton in hosting such an iconic event, and even more proud of the significant economic boost it brings to our local businesses and tourism sector. Alberta is, and will always be, rodeo country!”

    Joseph Schow, Minister of Tourism and Sport

    Minister of Tourism and Sport Joseph Schow presents an award at the Canadian Finals Rodeo. Photo by Andy Devlin/Rogers Place.

    The economic impact of the event in Edmonton was calculated at more than $30 million and supported more than 5,500 jobs. The four-day event drew more than 42,000 spectators that filled over 12,000 hotel rooms.

    “It was great to see the Canadian Finals Rodeo back in Edmonton this year. Our livestock community contributes so much to the sport of rodeo, and we wouldn’t have this level of competition without the production of great bucking horses and bulls. I am proud to witness the animal athletes from our bucking horse and bull producers in Alberta. The caliber of stock that they bring to each rodeo throughout the years is remarkable.”

    RJ Sigurdson, Minister of Agriculture and Irrigation

    Minister of Agriculture and Irrigation RJ Sigurdson presents an award at the Canadian Finals Rodeo. Photo by Andy Devlin/Rogers Place.

    “CFR50 was a huge success. Edmontonians and Edmonton businesses embraced the return of professional rodeo to our city, which saw the streets of downtown teeming with cowboys, cowgirls and rodeo lovers from across the prairies and around the world. From the volunteers to the competitors to all the sponsors, partners and friends of CFR, thank you to everyone who helped bring the thrill of exciting western action to more than 42,000 spectators, and a more than $30 million economic impact to our city.”

    Traci Bednard, president and CEO, Explore Edmonton

    Alberta’s government remains committed to ensuring Alberta continues to host world-class events that enrich the province’s cultural and economic fabric. By continuing to invest in large-scale sporting and cultural events like the Canadian Finals Rodeo, Alberta is ensuring that it remains a premier destination for competitors, fans and guests from across the world.

    Related information

    • Canadian Finals Rodeo
    • Explore Edmonton

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Blunt Rochester, Colleagues Applaud Finalization of New Lead and Copper Rule Improvements, Announcement of $2.6 Billion in New Funding to Help Remove Lead Pipes Across America

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Lisa Blunt Rochester (DE-AL)

    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Reps. Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.), Rashida Tlaib (D-Mich.), and Debbie Dingell (D-Mich.), co-chairs of the Get the Lead Out Caucus in the House, alongside Rep. Barbara Lee (D-Calif.) and U.S. Senators Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.) and Cory Booker (D-N.J.), co-founders of the Senate Lead Task Force, lauded the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) decision to finalize the Biden Administration’s proposed Lead and Copper Rule Improvements (LCRI). The LCRI would lower the lead action level to better protect human health and require water systems to replace old and deteriorating lead pipes within a decade. In addition to the LCRI, the EPA also announced $2.6 billion in newly available drinking water infrastructure funding through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) to support lead-related activities, including lead pipe replacement projects. The finalized rule comes ahead of the October 16th finalization deadline to not only help ensure these important improvements are implemented as quickly as possible, but also prevent water systems from being forced to temporarily comply with the prior rule proposed by the Trump Administration—also known as the Lead and Copper Rule Revisions (LCRR)—which would put public health at risk.

    “Today’s announcement from the Biden-Harris Administration is a win-win for our communities because it delivers on our shared commitment to replace all lead pipes across the country within 10 years and protect public health,” said Rep. Blunt Rochester, co-lead of the congressional Get the Lead Out Caucus. “I am proud to have helped push for the swift finalization of the Lead and Copper Rule Improvements with my colleagues in Congress. Thanks to our advocacy, and with the leadership of President Biden and Vice President Harris, we are closer than ever to actualizing a 100% lead-free future.”

    “As the founder of the Get the Lead Out Caucus, I know that clean drinking water is a human right,” said Rep. Tlaib. “We must move urgently to replace all lead pipes in our country within the next 10 years, and I’m glad to see the EPA announce the final Lead and Copper Rule Improvements to continue the critical work toward this objective. Congress must continue to work to appropriate the funding necessary to help all of our communities identify, remove, and replace every lead pipe over this next decade.”

    “Clean and safe drinking water is a basic human right, and the science is clear – no amount of lead is safe. There are millions of people across the country who don’t even know if they are drinking lead, and I’ve had parents come up to me with tears in their eyes, worried for the wellbeing of their children because of lead in the water at school,” said Rep. Dingell. “I thank the Biden-Harris Administration for their continued commitment to replacing every lead service line in our country to guarantee access to safe water for every community and finally give peace of mind to families.”

    “Today, EPA estimates that nearly 9 million homes are served through lead pipes across the country – and disproportionally, many of these homes are located in low-income communities and communities of color,” said Rep. Lee. “Clean and safe drinking water is a human right, and we must treat it that way. I am proud of the work of my colleagues and I in Congress to achieve our goal of removing every lead pipe in the United States over the next ten years and thank the Biden-Harris Administration for their work in fighting to ensure that communities across our country have access to lead-free water.”

    “Every American, no matter their zip-code, deserves access to safe drinking water,” said Senator Duckworth. “We’ve been working hard in Congress to achieve our goal of removing every lead pipe in America over the next decade, and this historic rule from the Biden Administration and billions in new funding will help us make it a reality while preventing Trump-era policies that would harm human health from going into effect. This is a win-win for all Americans.”

    “The EPA’s bold leadership in finalizing this critical rule will help us eliminate lead pipes within a decade and put a stop to lead exposure that continues to threaten the health of far too many families and children in our nation today,” said Senator Booker. “Every American deserves access to clean and safe drinking water, and by modernizing our aging water infrastructure we are investing in a future where every family can turn on the tap and know their water is clean. I am proud to have helped lead the call in Congress for a strong final rule, and I thank the Biden-Harris administration for their commitment to environmental justice and public health.”

    The finalized rule also improves communication within communities so that families are better informed about the risk of lead in drinking water, the location of lead pipes and plans for replacing them. Exposure to lead is harmful to health, especially for young children. In children, low levels of exposure have been linked to damage to the nervous system, learning disabilities, shorter stature, impaired hearing and impaired formation and function of blood cells. 

    Last month, Blunt Rochester called on the White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to expedite its review of LCRI. In May, Blunt Rochester, alongside Senators Tom Carper and Chris Coons (both D-Del.) announced over $28 million from the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund to identify and replace lead pipes and help prevent lead poisoning among Delaware’s children and families. The funding came from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, legislation Blunt Rochester, Carper, and Coons championed in Congress.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: 10.08.2024 ICYMI: Sen. Cruz Demands Transparency on Tim Walz’s Ties to the Wuhan Institute of Virology

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Texas Ted Cruz

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – In case you missed it, last week, U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) sent a letter to the Hormel Institute regarding its partnership with the Wuhan Institute of Virology (WIV) and financial resources secured for the Hormel Institute by Governor Tim Walz. The WIV has been credibly implicated as the point of origin of COVID-19 and conducts its activities under the auspices of the Chinese Communist Party.
    In the letter, Sen. Cruz wrote, “For over a decade, Governor Tim Walz has acted as one of the Institute’s most ardent supporters, securing millions of taxpayer dollars to fund its operations, including over $2 million in federal funding for technology acquisitions and a $5 million earmark to expand your Institute’s reach. The Governor’s support for the Hormel Institute has remained steadfast, continuing even after the FBI concluded on February 28, 2023 that COVID-19 pandemic likely originated from the WIV.
    “Governor Walz’s personal connections to China—his honeymoon there, over 30 trips, and public comments downplaying the strategic threat posed by the CCP13—only raise further questions about his motivations for promoting your institution. 
    “Your institute’s ongoing partnership with the Wuhan Institute of Virology, and by extension the People’s Liberation Army, reflects a troubling disregard for national security concerns…The American people deserve assurance that their resources and institutions are not inadvertently supporting the goals of our chief geopolitical adversary.”
    Read the full letter here or below:
    Dear Director Clarke:
    I write to you today with growing concern regarding the Hormel Institute’s longstanding partnership with China’s Wuhan Institute of Virology (WIV). 
    The WIV, as you are certainly aware, has been credibly implicated as the likely point of origin of the COVID-19 pandemic. Even more troubling are its direct ties to China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA) and its involvement in classified military research including laboratory animal experiments under the auspices of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) at least as recently as 2017. Despite these alarming connections which raise obvious national security concerns, the institute you lead has not only maintained its collaboration with WIV but it has done so with the backing of Minnesota’s top elected official. 
    For over a decade, Governor Tim Walz has acted as one of the Institute’s most ardent supporters, securing millions of taxpayer dollars to fund its operations, including over $2 million in federal funding for technology acquisitions and a $5 million earmark to expand your Institute’s reach. The Governor’s support for the Hormel Institute has remained steadfast, continuing even after the FBI concluded on February 28, 2023 that COVID-19 pandemic likely originated from the WIV.
    In recent years, researchers at the Hormel Institute have collaborated with the Wuhan Institute of Virology on a variety of projects, including a 2020 COVID-19 study and, as more recently as of 2024, on structural biology research.
    The COVID-19 study, titled “A dynamic regulatory interface on SARS-CoV-2 RNA polymerase,” was authored by four WIV researchers, three Hormel Institute researchers, and a Yale School of Medicine professor. Similarly, in January 2024, Hormel Institute researchers published a study on genes with the WIV’s Lina He, Wei Zhou, and Yangbo Hu. In 2023, WIV’s Yangbo Hu also worked with the Hormel Institute’s Dmytro Kompaniiets, Dong Wang, and Bin Liu on research titled “Structure and molecular mechanism of bacterial transcription activation,” among other collaborations. 
    Furthermore, the resignation of your predecessor, Dr. Zigang Dong, who served as Executive Director for nearly 18 years and resigned following an FBI investigation into his “possible failure to disclose foreign backing when applying for grants,” should have prompted a thorough reassessment of your institute’s engagements with foreign entities. Yet, despite this disconcerting event, Governor Walz continues to promote and direct public resources to your institute. Even after the U.S. government ceased funding to organizations working with the WIV, Governor Walz toured your facility and publicly praised its work.
    Governor Walz’s personal connections to China—his honeymoon there, over 30 trips, and public comments downplaying the strategic threat posed by the CCP—only raise further questions about his motivations for promoting your institution. 
    Additionally, in 2020, the Hormel Institute’s disclosure in a 2020 EMBO Journal Study that it received “help from the Core Facility and Technical Support” of the WIV for “radioactive and fluorescent tests” adds to the concern. Further raising suspicions is that Bin Liu, a professor at the Hormel Institute who worked on that 2020 EMBO Journal study, attended Wuhan University. Federal records indicate that the researchers for this particular study included those affiliated with the WIV, in addition to the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences and China’s Zhengzhou University. 
    In light of these recently-disclosed facts, it is critical to understand the full extent of your institute’s involvement in a partnership that risks benefitting our nation’s chief geopolitical adversary. Accordingly, for the purposes of oversight, I request that you respond to the following questions and requests by October 31, 2024: 
    1. How much public and private funding has the Hormel Institute received specifically for projects involving collaboration with the Wuhan Institute of Virology (WIV)? Please provide an itemized accounting of all such funding. 
    2. When did the Hormel Institute first initiate collaboration with the WIV, and what were the specific reasons for choosing to partner with a facility known to have ties to China’s People’s Liberation Army? 
    3. What actions has the Hormel Institute taken to ensure that its collaborative work with the WIV does not benefit China’s military or pose a risk to U.S. national security? 
    a. If no such actions were taken, what was the rationale behind this decision? 
    4. Given the WIV’s ties to China’s military, why has the Hormel Institute not publicly disclosed the full extent of its collaborations with the WIV? 
    a. If this information has been withheld, please explain why. 
    5. Please provide all internal documentation or communications related to the Hormel Institute’s partnerships with Chinese research facilities, including but not limited to the WIV. 
    6. What was the Institute’s reasoning behind continuing its collaboration with the WIV, even after serious concerns about the origins of COVID-19 and the lab’s military affiliations became widely known? 
    7. How can the American public trust that the Hormel Institute’s partnerships with the WIV are not inadvertently advancing China’s geopolitical goals, particularly in biotechnology and biomedical research? 
    8. Given the U.S. government’s cessation of funding to other nonprofits with ties to the WIV, what justifications does the Hormel Institute offer for continuing its relationship with the WIV? 
    9. Why did the Hormel Institute continue collaborating with the WIV after your predecessor, Dr. Zigang Dong, resigned amid an FBI investigation into his failure to disclose foreign funding when applying for grants? 
    10. The Hormel Institute’s work with the WIV includes research on gene structures and SARS-CoV-2 RNA polymerase. What measures have been taken to ensure that no sensitive intellectual property or technology has been transferred to China’s military-backed labs during these studies? If no measures were taken, why not? 
    11. Please provide any documentation or communications between the Hormel Institute and the Office of the Minnesota Governor regarding the Institute’s partnerships with Chinese research facilities, particularly the WIV. 
    Your institute’s ongoing partnership with the Wuhan Institute of Virology, and by extension the People’s Liberation Army, reflects a troubling disregard for national security concerns. The devastating impact of COVID-19 has highlighted the seriousness of these issues, as the pandemic has severely affected lives and economies worldwide. The American people deserve assurance that their resources and institutions are not inadvertently supporting the goals of our chief geopolitical adversary. As Executive Director, it is crucial that you address these concerns transparently. Failure to do so will only deepen public mistrust and undermine confidence in your institute’s integrity and intentions. 
    The American people look forward to your timely and comprehensive response. 
    Sincerely, 
    /X/

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Brown Calls on Administration to Provide Disaster Loans to Small Businesses Affected by May Explosion in Downtown Youngstown

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Ohio Sherrod Brown

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown (D-OH) called on the Biden Administration to grant Ohio’s request to make Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) available to Youngstown businesses impacted by the downtown Realty Tower explosion on May 28, 2024.

    In a letter to U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Administrator Isabella Casillas Guzman and Associate Administrator Francisco Sánchez Jr., Brown detailed the impact of the explosion on local businesses and urged SBA to provide assistance. The letter follows an official request from the state that was submitted on Monday.

    “While downtown businesses have re-opened, many were significantly impacted and have requested help. Following the May explosion, I heard directly from businesses, workers, and residents who were negatively affected by the explosion. Business owners shared the economic challenges this emergency brought, and I urge you to answer their call for support,” Brown wrote.

    In July, Brown called on the Secretary of the Treasury and the IRS Commissioner to declare that relief payments Youngstown residents received from the Red Cross, the United Way, and Enbridge Gas in connection to the explosion be deemed tax exempt. Brown is pushing the IRS to declare the tragic explosion “of a catastrophic nature,” and qualify the payments as nontaxable. Earlier that week, Brown hosted a roundtable with government officials, businesses, workers and residents of downtown Youngstown who have been negatively affected by the May 28 Realty Tower Explosion. Brown and residents discussed the ongoing recovery efforts.

    Full text of the letter can be found HERE or below.

    Dear Administrator Casillas Guzman and Administrator Sanchez: 

    I write to urge you to act swiftly on the request by Ohio Governor Mike DeWine for the Small Business Administration (SBA) to make Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) available to Youngstown businesses impacted by the downtown explosion on May 28, 2024. 

    The explosion resulted in one fatality, nine serious injuries, and massive property damage. In addition, the event displaced hundreds of residents from their homes, forced several businesses to close temporarily, and required the demolition of a historic building.

    While downtown businesses have re-opened, many were significantly impacted and have requested help. Following the May explosion, I heard directly from businesses, workers, and residents who were negatively affected by the explosion. Business owners shared the economic challenges this emergency brought, and I urge you to answer their call for support. In his request for SBA EIDL assistance, Governor DeWine has found that the sustained losses to businesses meet the threshold for SBA disaster assistance and that businesses are in need of financial assistance not otherwise available on reasonable terms.

    I fully support Governor DeWine’s request and urge your prompt consideration. Thank you for your attention to this urgent matter. 

    Thank you,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Brown Hosts 9th Student Leadership Summit in Dayton

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Ohio Sherrod Brown

    DAYTON, OH – Today, U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown (D-OH) hosted the Propel Ohio 2024 Student Leadership Summit in Dayton. The one-day nonpartisan summit connects Ohio students at community colleges and technical schools, colleges, and universities and promotes student leadership. More than 250 students and 42 administrators from more than 51 Ohio community colleges, colleges, and universities are expected to attend this year’s summit.

    “I started the Propel Leadership Summit nearly a decade ago to bring together student leaders from around Ohio and help them make connections with each other and with leaders in public service, business, and nonprofits in our State,” said Brown. “Our democracy, our businesses, and our communities are  always stronger when more young people participate and take on leadership roles.”

    The conferenced featured panel discussions on professional development in Ohio, as well as breakout sessions for students to engage with regional experts and other students on public service and civic engagement in Ohio. Students also packaged school supplies for classrooms, teachers, and students in need of resources.

    Brown hosted the summit in partnership with the University of Dayton, AFL-CIO, AFSCME, American Airlines, CareSource, Community Campus Coalition, Crayons to Classrooms, Dayton Development Coalition, Joby Aviation, Premier Health, and United Steelworkers.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senate & House Lead Safety Leaders Applaud Finalization of New Lead and Copper Rule Improvements, Announcement of $2.6 Billion in New Funding to Help Remove Lead Pipes Across America

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Jersey Cory Booker

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Co-founders of the U.S. Senate Lead Task Force Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and co-chairs of the U.S. House Get the Lead Out Caucus Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE-AL), Rashida Tlaib (D-MI-12) and Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06), along with U.S. Representative Barbara Lee (D-CA-12), today lauded the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) decision to finalize the Biden Administration’s proposed Lead and Copper Rule Improvements (LCRI), which would lower the lead action level to better protect human health and require water systems to replace old and deteriorating lead pipes within a decade. In addition to the LCRI, the EPA also announced $2.6 billion in newly available drinking water infrastructure funding through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) to support lead-related activities, including lead pipe replacement projects. The finalized rule comes ahead of the October 16th finalization deadline to not only help ensure these important improvements are implemented as quickly as possible, but also prevent water systems from being forced to temporarily comply with the prior rule proposed by the Trump Administration—also known as the Lead and Copper Rule Revisions (LCRR)—which would put public health at risk.

    “The EPA’s bold leadership in finalizing this critical rule will help us eliminate lead pipes within a decade and put a stop to lead exposure that continues to threaten the health of far too many families and children in our nation today,” said Senator Booker. “Every American deserves access to clean and safe drinking water, and by modernizing our aging water infrastructure we are investing in a future where every family can turn on the tap and know their water is clean. I am proud to have helped lead the call in Congress for a strong final rule, and I thank the Biden-Harris administration for their commitment to environmental justice and public health.”

    “Every American, no matter their zip-code, deserves access to safe drinking water,” said Senator Duckworth. “We’ve been working hard in Congress to achieve our goal of removing every lead pipe in America over the next decade, and this historic rule from the Biden Administration and billions in new funding will help us make it a reality while preventing Trump-era policies that would harm human health from going into effect. This is a win-win for all Americans.”

    “Today’s announcement from the Biden-Harris Administration is a win-win for our communities because it delivers on our shared commitment to replace all lead pipes across the country within 10 years and protect public health,” said Rep. Lisa Blunt Rochester, co-lead of the congressional Get the Lead Out Caucus. “I am proud to have helped push for the swift finalization of the Lead and Copper Rule Improvements with my colleagues in Congress. Thanks to our advocacy, and with the leadership of President Biden and Vice President Harris, we are closer than ever to actualizing a 100% lead-free future.”

    “As the founder of the Get the Lead Out Caucus, I know that clean drinking water is a human right,” said Congresswoman Tlaib. “We must move urgently to replace all lead pipes in our country within the next 10 years, and I’m glad to see the EPA announce the final Lead and Copper Rule Improvements to continue the critical work toward this objective. Congress must continue to work to appropriate the funding necessary to help all of our communities identify, remove, and replace every lead pipe over this next decade.”

    “Clean and safe drinking water is a basic human right, and the science is clear – no amount of lead is safe. There are millions of people across the country who don’t even know if they are drinking lead, and I’ve had parents come up to me with tears in their eyes, worried for the wellbeing of their children because of lead in the water at school,” Congresswoman Dingell said. “I thank the Biden-Harris Administration for their continued commitment to replacing every lead service line in our country to guarantee access to safe water for every community and finally give peace of mind to families.”

    “Today, EPA estimates that nearly 9 million homes are served through lead pipes across the country – and disproportionally, many of these homes are located in low-income communities and communities of color,” said Congresswoman Barbara Lee. “Clean and safe drinking water is a human right, and we must treat it that way. I am proud of the work of my colleagues and I in Congress to achieve our goal of removing every lead pipe in the United States over the next ten years and thank the Biden-Harris Administration for their work in fighting to ensure that communities across our country have access to lead-free water.”

    The finalized rule also improves communication within communities so that families are better informed about the risk of lead in drinking water, the location of lead pipes and plans for replacing them. Exposure to lead is harmful to health, especially for young children. In children, low levels of exposure have been linked to damage to the nervous system, learning disabilities, shorter stature, impaired hearing and impaired formation and function of blood cells. 

    Last month, Booker called on the White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to expedite its review of LCRI.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Brown, Columbus Leaders Take on Predatory Investors That Drive Up Local Housing Prices

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Ohio Sherrod Brown

    COLUMBUS, OH – Today, U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown (D-OH) was joined by local leaders and community members in Columbus to call for passage of his Stop Predatory Investing Act, which would take away tax breaks for big investors that buy up large numbers of homes, driving up local housing prices. Brown, who serves as Chair of the Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committee, also toured a home being constructed for purchase by a Columbus homebuyer, not an investor. The Stop Predatory Investing Act would prohibit an investor who acquires 50 or more single-family rental homes from deducting interest or depreciation on those properties. Right now, two big Wall Street-backed investors own nearly 12,000 Ohio single-family homes in just three markets – including nearly 3,800 homes in Columbus. And the true extent of the problem is likely much larger, because other large investors, like private equity firms, that own homes throughout Ohio aren’t required to report how many homes they own.

    “In too many communities in Ohio, big investors funded by Wall Street are buying up homes and driving up prices. So many families who have worked for years saving to buy a house end up getting out-bid over and over by outside investors, and they can’t afford to compete,” said Brown. “We introduced the Stop Predatory Investing Act to fight back by striking right at the core of what makes this a profitable business venture for deep-pocketed investors: by taking away tax breaks they don’t need, we cut deep into their profit.”

    Brown was joined by Carlie Boos, Executive Director of the Affordable Housing Alliance of Central Ohio, Janene Parham, a realtor with Red 1 Realty and Co-Founder of Renew Homes Ohio, and Curtiss L. Williams, Sr., President and CEO of the Central Ohio Community Improvement Corporation.

    “It’s not a fair fight when these LLCs are offering to close on a home two hours after it shows up on a listing service, when they’re willing to pay cash, when they’re willing to buy as-is, no inspection, sight-unseen. Our homebuyers cannot go toe-to-toe with high-tech algorithms backed by an unlimited supply of cash. Thankfully, this is a problem that can be fixed. Most immediately, we can take away the incentives and tax breaks that make it more alluring to invest in a home than live in one. I want to thank Senator Brown, Curtiss Williams, and Janene Parham for their continued leadership in this effort,” said Carlie Boos.

    “As a realtor with over 25+ years and advocate for affordable housing. I have seen a lot of shifts of the market. This may be one of hardest, especially for buyers purchasing within the 180k –325k price range,” said Janene Parham. “Predatory Investment Corporation is having a negative effect on our housing market for buyers and renters in most vulnerable communities. Regulation has to happen now in order to stabilize and make home ownership affordable.”

    “We want to thank Senator Brown and his team for their support of affordable housing initiatives across Ohio and nationally. We appreciate his work to introduce legislation that would help keep homes accessible to working individuals and families in Franklin County,” said Curtiss L. Williams, Sr. “When we take corporations and investors out of the equation, our community is able to focus on creating sustainable pathways to homeownership and affordable rentals.”

    Private equity and other Wall Street-backed outside investors are a growing problem in Ohio housing markets, driving up local housing prices and pushing homeownership further out of reach for too many working families. In the second quarter of 2024, investors bought more than 14% of homes in Columbus according to Redfin. Large, out-of-state investors use technology and all-cash offers to outcompete individual buyers. And because investors often target the same types of affordable starter homes as first-time homebuyers, they deny families the opportunity to build wealth through homeownership.

    Brown has long fought to protect Ohio’s homeowners and renters from bad actors in the housing market and has fought to improve access to affordable homeownership. In July, Brown introduced the Housing Acquisitions Review and Transparency (HART) Act to increase competition in the housing market by requiring corporations and private equity firms that buy up large numbers of houses and apartments to report those transactions to antitrust enforcers. Brown has held hearings with Cleveland’s Director of Building and Housing Sally Martin and the Port of Greater Cincinnati Development Authority President and CEO Laura Brunner about the harm that investors have caused Ohio communities, renters, and aspiring homeowners. Brown also held a listening session where tenants from across the country described the harm they’d experienced renting from institutional investor landlords. 

    Legislative text of the Stop Predatory Investing Act can be found here, and a summary of the bill can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Nobel Prize in physics spotlights key breakthroughs in AI revolution − making machines that learn

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Ambuj Tewari, Professor of Statistics, University of Michigan

    Artificial neural networks mimic human brains, but the technology has its roots in physics. Thom Leach/Science Photo Library via Getty Images

    If your jaw dropped as you watched the latest AI-generated video, your bank balance was saved from criminals by a fraud detection system, or your day was made a little easier because you were able to dictate a text message on the run, you have many scientists, mathematicians and engineers to thank.

    But two names stand out for foundational contributions to the deep learning technology that makes those experiences possible: Princeton University physicist John Hopfield and University of Toronto computer scientist Geoffrey Hinton.

    The two researchers were awarded the Nobel Prize in physics on Oct. 8, 2024, for their pioneering work in the field of artificial neural networks. Though artificial neural networks are modeled on biological neural networks, both researchers’ work drew on statistical physics, hence the prize in physics.

    The Nobel committee announces the 2024 prize in physics.
    Atila Altuntas/Anadolu via Getty Images

    How a neuron computes

    Artificial neural networks owe their origins to studies of biological neurons in living brains. In 1943, neurophysiologist Warren McCulloch and logician Walter Pitts proposed a simple model of how a neuron works. In the McCulloch-Pitts model, a neuron is connected to its neighboring neurons and can receive signals from them. It can then combine those signals to send signals to other neurons.

    But there is a twist: It can weigh signals coming from different neighbors differently. Imagine that you are trying to decide whether to buy a new bestselling phone. You talk to your friends and ask them for their recommendations. A simple strategy is to collect all friend recommendations and decide to go along with whatever the majority says. For example, you ask three friends, Alice, Bob and Charlie, and they say yay, yay and nay, respectively. This leads you to a decision to buy the phone because you have two yays and one nay.

    However, you might trust some friends more because they have in-depth knowledge of technical gadgets. So you might decide to give more weight to their recommendations. For example, if Charlie is very knowledgeable, you might count his nay three times and now your decision is to not buy the phone – two yays and three nays. If you’re unfortunate to have a friend whom you completely distrust in technical gadget matters, you might even assign them a negative weight. So their yay counts as a nay and their nay counts as a yay.

    Once you’ve made your own decision about whether the new phone is a good choice, other friends can ask you for your recommendation. Similarly, in artificial and biological neural networks, neurons can aggregate signals from their neighbors and send a signal to other neurons. This capability leads to a key distinction: Is there a cycle in the network? For example, if I ask Alice, Bob and Charlie today, and tomorrow Alice asks me for my recommendation, then there is a cycle: from Alice to me, and from me back to Alice.

    In recurrent neural networks, neurons communicate back and forth rather than in just one direction.
    Zawersh/Wikimedia, CC BY-SA

    If the connections between neurons do not have a cycle, then computer scientists call it a feedforward neural network. The neurons in a feedforward network can be arranged in layers. The first layer consists of the inputs. The second layer receives its signals from the first layer and so on. The last layer represents the outputs of the network.

    However, if there is a cycle in the network, computer scientists call it a recurrent neural network, and the arrangements of neurons can be more complicated than in feedforward neural networks.

    Hopfield network

    The initial inspiration for artificial neural networks came from biology, but soon other fields started to shape their development. These included logic, mathematics and physics. The physicist John Hopfield used ideas from physics to study a particular type of recurrent neural network, now called the Hopfield network. In particular, he studied their dynamics: What happens to the network over time?

    Such dynamics are also important when information spreads through social networks. Everyone’s aware of memes going viral and echo chambers forming in online social networks. These are all collective phenomena that ultimately arise from simple information exchanges between people in the network.

    Hopfield was a pioneer in using models from physics, especially those developed to study magnetism, to understand the dynamics of recurrent neural networks. He also showed that their dynamics can give such neural networks a form of memory.

    Boltzmann machines and backpropagation

    During the 1980s, Geoffrey Hinton, computational neurobiologist Terrence Sejnowski and others extended Hopfield’s ideas to create a new class of models called Boltzmann machines, named for the 19th-century physicist Ludwig Boltzmann. As the name implies, the design of these models is rooted in the statistical physics pioneered by Boltzmann. Unlike Hopfield networks that could store patterns and correct errors in patterns – like a spellchecker does – Boltzmann machines could generate new patterns, thereby planting the seeds of the modern generative AI revolution.

    Hinton was also part of another breakthrough that happened in the 1980s: backpropagation. If you want artificial neural networks to do interesting tasks, you have to somehow choose the right weights for the connections between artificial neurons. Backpropagation is a key algorithm that makes it possible to select weights based on the performance of the network on a training dataset. However, it remained challenging to train artificial neural networks with many layers.

    In the 2000s, Hinton and his co-workers cleverly used Boltzmann machines to train multilayer networks by first pretraining the network layer by layer and then using another fine-tuning algorithm on top of the pretrained network to further adjust the weights. Multilayered networks were rechristened deep networks, and the deep learning revolution had begun.

    A computer scientist explains machine learning to a child, to a high school student, to a college student, to a grad student and then to a fellow expert.

    AI pays it back to physics

    The Nobel Prize in physics shows how ideas from physics contributed to the rise of deep learning. Now deep learning has begun to pay its due back to physics by enabling accurate and fast simulations of systems ranging from molecules and materials all the way to the entire Earth’s climate.

    By awarding the Nobel Prize in physics to Hopfield and Hinton, the prize committee has signaled its hope in humanity’s potential to use these advances to promote human well-being and to build a sustainable world.

    Ambuj Tewari receives funding from the NSF.

    – ref. Nobel Prize in physics spotlights key breakthroughs in AI revolution − making machines that learn – https://theconversation.com/nobel-prize-in-physics-spotlights-key-breakthroughs-in-ai-revolution-making-machines-that-learn-240845

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Markey Celebrates Port of New Bedford’s Completion of North Terminal Expansion

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts Ed Markey

    $42.7 million project increases the Port’s economic competitiveness

     

    Left: Sen. Markey, Sen. Warren, Rep. Keating, Mayor Mitchell and other officials cutting the ribbon at the North Terminal expansion project 

    Right: Senator Markey speaking at the ribbon-cutting 

    Boston (October 8, 2024) – Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), a member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, today joined Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Representative Bill Keating (MA-09), New Bedford Mayor Jon Mitchell, and local administrators and elected officials at a ribbon-cutting to celebrate the successful completion of the North Terminal expansion project, a maritime facility that will strengthen the Port’s competitiveness in fishing, offshore wind, and other industries. The expansion, which has created 630 linear feet of new bulkhead and 5.05 additional acres of terminal area, will support growing infrastructure needs of port users and ensure long-term economic growth for New Bedford and the South Coast region. With upgraded bulkheads, new berthing facilities, enhanced dredging, and expanded laydown space, North Terminal is designed to streamline logistics for businesses and facilitate future Port expansions. 

    The expansion of North Terminal is the latest piece of the modernization of the Port of New Bedford. Over the past ten years, the Port has seen the largest set of infrastructure upgrades in generations, which will top $1 billion upon completion.  

    “The Port of New Bedford is a triple threat: the number one fishing port by value in the nation, an innovator on offshore wind development, and a regional leader in maritime technology industries,” said Senator Markey. “This expanded infrastructure will be a game changer for New Bedford and beyond. I look forward to working with the City as they continue to put historic investments into their port infrastructure.” 

    Funding for the $42.7 million project came from a mix of local, state and federal sources, including: 

    • FY18 Department of Transportation BUILD Grant 

    $   15.6M 
    • FY19 MassWorks Dredging Grant 

    $   11.4M 
    • Commonwealth of Massachusetts 

    $     1.0M 

    $   11.8M 
    • City of New Bedford (through the American Rescue Plan Act) 

    $     2.3M 
    • New Bedford Port Authority 

                      $     0.6M 
    • Total Infrastructure Investments

    $   42.7M 

    “The Port of New Bedford is the primary driver of economic activity in Southeastern Massachusetts. The North Terminal expansion project was a critical step to advancing the Port’s ability to meet the emerging demands of New Bedford’s offshore wind and maritime technology industries. I thank Senators Markey and Warren, Rep. Keating and the rest of the federal delegation, Gov. Healey and our state delegation, and everyone at the New Bedford Port Authority and on the local level for helping us overcome various legal, financial and engineering challenges to get this project to the finish line,” said Jon Mitchell, Mayor of New Bedford. 

    “This project came to fruition because of the continuing commitment our federal, state, and local leaders make to position the Port of New Bedford for the future. The North Terminal project exemplifies our obligation to provide first-rate infrastructure that supports the thriving maritime industries of New Bedford. This development will allow us to meet the needs of our fishing fleet, welcome new offshore wind ventures, and foster regional economic growth,” said Gordon Carr, Executive Director of the New Bedford Port Authority. 

    Senator Markey has secured funding for various projects for the Port of New Bedford. In 2018, Senator Markey led a letter of support for the Port of New Bedford and helped secured $15 million from the “Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development” (BUILD) grant to improve the infrastructure and environment.   

    In 2023, Senator Markey, Senator Warren, and Congressman Keating helped secure $24.4 million in Maritime Administration Port Infrastructure Development Program funding for the Leonard’s Wharf Extension project. Senators Markey and Warren also secured $4 million in FY24 Congressionally Directed Spending for New Bedford and Fairhaven Harbor for the US Army Corps of Engineers to dredge and repair damaged areas of the steel sector gates.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Gaza – Israeli forces pushing people from north Gaza to the south will only worsen the humanitarian catastrophe – MSF

    Source: Médecins Sans Frontières/Doctors Without Borders (MSF)

    Jerusalem, 9 October 2024: Israeli evacuation orders for parts of northern Gaza, issued on 7 October, are pushing tens of thousands of people to immediately flee south as the area is targeted by airstrikes and a ground offensive. In this latest forced mass displacement, residents of Beit Hanoun, Jabalia and Beit Lahia have been urged to move to the overcrowded, so-called humanitarian zone between Al-Mawasi and Deir Al-Balah, where one million people are already living in inhumane conditions. The zone also remains unsafe for civilians and aid workers, as Israeli forces continue to repeatedly strike the area.

    These forced mass evacuations of homes and bombing of neighbourhoods by the Israeli forces are turning the north of Gaza into an unliveable wasteland, effectively emptying out the whole north of the Strip of Palestinian life. To make matters worse, no humanitarian supplies have been allowed to enter the area since 1 October.

    MSF calls on the Israeli forces to halt evacuation orders, which are causing the forced displacement of people, and to ensure the protection of civilians. They must also allow desperately needed humanitarian supplies to enter the north as a matter of extreme urgency.

    “All of a sudden, I was told that we had to move from the north,” says Mahmoud, a Médecins Sans Frontières/Doctors Without Borders (MSF) watchman, who left Jabalia at night to find refuge at the MSF guest house in Gaza City. “We left our home in despair, under bombs, missiles and artillery. It was very, very difficult. I would prefer to die than to be displaced to the south; my home is here, and I do not want to leave.”

    Israeli forces also called for the evacuation of the three main hospitals in northern Gaza, namely Indonesian, Kamal Adwan and Al-Awda hospitals. These are operating at minimal capacity and have a total of 317 patients still hospitalised, with around 80 people in intensive care and unable to move, according to the Ministry of Health. These three medical facilities, as well as those that remain partially functional across the Strip, must be protected at all costs.

    The MSF clinic in Gaza City received 255 patients on Sunday and Monday alone, as options for people to access medical care shrink by the day. For some people, accessing the few existing health facilities is impossible; our teams have received reports of wounded people who have died as they were unable to seek medical care.

    Among those facing evacuation orders in the north are seven MSF staff who managed to find shelter in Gaza City. Five others remain blocked in Jabalia, where the Israeli forces are on the ground carrying out attacks.

    “The latest move to forcefully and violently push thousands of people from northern Gaza to the south is turning the north into a lifeless desert, while aggravating the situation in the south, where more than one million people have already been squeezed into a small portion of the Gaza Strip and live in deplorable conditions,” says Sarah Vuylsteke, MSF project coordinator in Gaza.

    “Access to water, healthcare, and safety is already almost non-existent, and the thought of more people fitting into this space is impossible to imagine,” says Vuylsteke. “People have been subjected to endless displacement and relentless bombing for the past 12 months. Enough is enough, this must stop now.”

    While the Israeli authorities have recently declared a minimal expansion of the so-called humanitarian zone, the area remains subject to evacuation orders and is unsafe due to regular Israeli bombardment. Many people living in the zone are suffering from skin diseases and respiratory infections because of the dire conditions. The situation is even more worrying with the approach of winter and the cold temperatures that people will be exposed to.

    Israeli forces must urgently halt evacuation orders in the north of Gaza. The relentless killing of people in Gaza must stop now, and an immediate and sustained ceasefire must be implemented.

    MSF Australia was established in 1995 and is one of 24 international MSF sections committed to delivering medical humanitarian assistance to people in crisis. In 2022, more than 120 project staff from Australia and New Zealand worked with MSF on assignment overseas. MSF delivers medical care based on need alone and operates independently of government, religion or economic influence and irrespective of race, religion or gender. For more information visit msf.org.au  

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Crypto Security – Cryptocurrency crimes surge 4x as crypto-related SEC litigations boom in Q3

    Source: Finbold

    After a relatively slow start to 2024, the Securities and Exchange Commission vastly increased the number of cryptocurrency-related complaints in the third quarter (Q3) of 2024.

    To be precise, Finbold Research found that the number of crypto-related litigations registered by the SEC quadrupled between Q2 and Q3 from 3 complaints to 12.

    Furthermore, September saw a particular uptick in activity as the month witnessed more cases than the entirety of Q1.

    Since January, the Commission also announced the conclusion of several high-profile cases. In March, it revealed it had obtained default judgment against Sameer Ramani – an insider-trading accomplice of Coinbase’s (COIN) former product manager.

    In mid-September, the SEC also revealed it had settled with FTX auditor Prager Metis, accused of severe negligence between February 2021 and April 2022.

    The regulator singled out the failure to detect the risks emerging from the links between the exchange and Alameda Research as particularly damning.

    Cryptocurrency-related cases involve a wide variety of crimes

    The cryptocurrency-related cases of 2024 feature a wide variety of alleged crimes, with unregistered securities offerings and sales remaining particularly common.

    Additionally, scammers have continued leveraging digital assets’ popularity to solicit investments, frequently misrepresenting their business and, sometimes, even taking money for completely fictitious investments.

    Still, as Andreja Stojanovic, a co-author of the research, pointed out:

    “Many of them are not truly lawsuits targeting the industry, as many involved other types of fraud that simply utilized cryptocurrencies’ popularity and reputation as lucrative – if risky – investment vehicles.”

    Indeed, despite the non-trivial number of digital asset cases announced by the SEC, they constitute only 9.21% of the 228 complaints reported by the Commission.

    Read the full story with statistics here: https://finbold.com/cryptocurrency-crimes-surge-4x-as-crypto-related-sec-litigations-boom-in-q3/

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Business – Moody’s Wins Top Ranking in ChartisRiskTech100 for Third Consecutive Year

    Source: Moody’s Corporation Investor Relations

    NEW YORK – Moody’s Corporation (NYSE:MCO) has been awarded the number-one overall ranking in the Chartis RiskTech100® 2025 report, marking Moody’s third consecutive year in the top position.

    The Chartis RiskTech100 is the most comprehensive study of the world’s leading providers of risk and compliance technology. The top ranking recognizes Moody’s unmatched ability to provide its customers with a holistic view of their risks through research, data, and analytics.

    “Winning the top award from Chartis for a third year in a row is a strong testament to how Moody’s stays on the cutting edge of developments in risk management technology,” said Rob Fauber, President and Chief Executive Officer of Moody’s. “We seek to constantly innovate across our suite of products and solutions and put new technologies and insights into the hands of our customers as quickly as possible.”

    In addition to earning the highest overall position, Moody’s won in 12 individual categories:

    Market Presence (new)
    Strategy
    Functionality
    Banking
    Insurance
    Climate Risk
    Credit Portfolio Management (new)
    Financial Crime – Data
    Credit Data – Wholesale
    Credit Data – Collateralized Loan Obligation (CLO)
    Credit Risk for the Banking Book
    Current Expected Credit Losses (CECL)

    “In maintaining its position at the top of the RiskTech100, Moody’s has demonstrated its effective and strategic use of the latest technology to enable its data and analytics to be efficiently accessed, distributed, and consumed,” said Sid Dash, Chief Researcher at Chartis. “Moreover, Moody’s continues to expand and develop its analytical tools and functionality across a variety of business lines, from banking to insurance and securitization to compliance.”

    The 2025 winners of RiskTech100 were selected through a nearly year-long process involving vendor briefings and discussions with risk technology buyers and end-users. The research directors and lead analysts at Chartis Research then made the final decisions.

    Chartis Research is the leading provider of research and analysis on the global market for risk technology. Their goal is to support enterprises that drive business performance through improved risk management, corporate governance, and compliance. Chartis strives to help clients make informed technology and business decisions by providing in-depth analysis and actionable advice on virtually all aspects of risk technology.

    For more information on Moody’s innovation and technology, visit Moodys.com/Innovation.

    ABOUT MOODY’S CORPORATION

    In a world shaped by increasingly interconnected risks, Moody’s (NYSE: MCO) data, insights, and innovative technologies help customers develop a holistic view of their world and unlock opportunities. With a rich history of experience in global markets and a diverse workforce of approximately 15,000 across more than 40 countries, Moody’s gives customers the comprehensive perspective needed to act with confidence and thrive. Learn more at moodys.com.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: RATINGS CHANGE: NJ-07 is a “Lean Republican”

    Source: US National Republican Congressional Committee

    The following text contains opinion that is not, or not necessarily, that of MIL-OSI –

    October 8, 2024

    Cook Political has officially moved NJ-07 to a “Lean Republican” race.

    Democrats have been fretting about Sue Altman for over a year: “Democrats privately worry that her profile — she led protests against neighboring Rep. Josh Gottheimer (D-N.J.) for his moderate record — makes it harder for them to win the seat.”

    It’s no wonder why: Altman’s support for defunding the police, raising taxes and boys in girls sports is radically out of step with common sense New Jersey voters.  

    “Sue Altman is grasping at straws trying to hide her radical past, but New Jersey voters see her for who she is: a megaphone-touting, defund the police radical. The momentum is on common sense pragmatist Tom Kean, Jr.’s side and he will be re-elected in November.” – NRCC Spokeswoman Savannah Viar

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Coast Guard Cutter Alex Haley crew returns from 75-day Arctic Ocean patrol

    Source: United States Coast Guard

    News Release

    		  

    U.S. Coast Guard 17th District Alaska
    Contact: 17th District Public Affairs
    Office: (907) 463-2065
    After Hours: (907) 463-2065
    17th District online newsroom

     

    10/08/2024 04:53 PM EDT

    KODIAK, Alaska — The crew of the Coast Guard Cutter Alex Haley (WMEC 39) returned to their home port in Kodiak, Oct. 4, following a 75-day patrol in the Bering Sea and Arctic Ocean. The crew intercepted a Russian Federation naval vessel transiting the U.S. Exclusive Economic Zone, conducted domestic fisheries along the Aleutian Islands, and provided search and rescue coverage to the Bering Sea.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: COOK POLITICAL: VA-07 is a “toss up”

    Source: US National Republican Congressional Committee

    The following text contains opinion that is not, or not necessarily, that of MIL-OSI –

    October 8, 2024

    Cook Political makes it official: VA-07 is officially a TOSS-UP race.

    As polling consistently shows VA-07 to be a dead heat, it’s no wonder Cook Political is the second race ranker to move this district to a “toss up.” Inside Elections moved it to “toss up” in August.

    Vindman has faced criticism for inflating his military resume, accusations of violating federal election law, blowback for not being from the district and 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Riverside man charged with possessing child abuse material

    Source: Tasmania Police

    A 44 year old Riverside man has been arrested for allegedly possessing child exploitation material.

    Following an investigation, search warrants were executed including at a private residence at Riverside today, by members of the Tasmania Joint Anti Child Exploitation Team (JACET).

    The Tasmania JACET is comprised of members of the High-Risk Child Exploitation Unit (Tasmania Police) and the Australian Federal Police.

    During the search, devices containing child abuse material were located.

    A 44-year-old man was arrested and charged with possess or control child abuse material obtained or accessed using a carriage service, contrary to section 474.22A of the Criminal Code 1995 (Cth).

    He has been detained to appear in an afterhours session of the Launceston Magistrates Court.

    Online child abuse is a serious crime. Tasmania Police, with the support of its partners, is committed to stopping these crimes and keeping our children safe. If you have seen inappropriate behaviour online that you suspect is child abuse, report it:

    •              If the child is in immediate danger, call 000.
    •              Call 131 444
    •              Report online to the Australian Centre to Counter Child Exploitation (ACCCE) https://www.accce.gov.au/report

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Road closed following crash, Marine Parade

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Police are currently attending a crash on Marine Parade, Napier, where a vehicle has struck a barrier. 

    While there are no injuries, there is traffic in the area and there are currently significant delays.

    The road is closed while Police work to clear the scene, with diversions in place.

    Please avoid the area if possible. 

    ENDS 

    Issued by Police Media Centre 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Australia – Have Aussies lost their ambition? Only 11% consider career progression a priority

    Source: Robert Walters

    • Only 11% of professionals consider career progression a top priority in their professional lives 
    • Higher level job ads remaining vacant for over a year, as candidates want fewer responsibilities 
    • 47% say work-life balance is top priority when considering a new job 
    • 32% of new managers feel unsupported, 26% experience imposter syndrome and 20% feel overwhelmed and overworked.

    Recent research by recruitment specialists, Robert Walters, reveals that only 11% of professionals consider career progression as a top priority in their professional lives.

    When respondents were asked about the most appealing aspect of career progression, 47% emphasised the importance of work-life balance. Additionally, 29% expressed a preference for increased learning opportunities, while 21% highlighted promotions and job title changes. Just 4% cited increased responsibilities as a key factor.

    The study further highlights the significance of work-life balance, with 43% of job seekers considering it the primary deciding factor when evaluating new job opportunities. In comparison, 22% prioritise a competitive salary, 19% focus on company culture, and just 17% prioritise career growth opportunities.

    These findings coincide with the observation made by Robert Walters that candidates are increasingly seeking lower-level roles over management positions. Moreover, higher level positions are remaining vacant for extended periods, up to over a year, with potential candidates expressing concerns over the excessive responsibilities associated with these positions.

    Work-life balance takes centre stage

    Jane Lowney, Senior Director at Robert Walters Brisbane also mentioned that the current workforce, especially among Gen Z, is more driven by work-life balance. The increased demand for managers to handle remote work and other factors such as office culture has significantly increased the pressure and responsibilities associated with management roles, stressing that there has been a noticeable shift in the mindset of professionals when it comes to career advancement.

    Jane said, “less individuals are interested in ‘climbing the corporate ladder’ as they question the value of management positions and the additional responsibilities they entail. Salary no longer comes first, work-life balance is now the priority, so people are hesitant about taking on more responsibilities. This trend could be concerning when we think about the potential consequences on retention of teams and the need to attract leaders over time.”  

    Manager roles have evolved

    Further research from the recruitment experts also emphasises the necessity for increased support for newly promoted managers. Among 2,000 managers surveyed, 32% admitted to feeling lacking in support, while 26% confessed to experiencing imposter syndrome. Additionally, 20% expressed feelings of being overwhelmed and overworked.  in their managerial roles. Only 22% reported feeling empowered and adequately supported in their positions.

    Jane further explains the evolving role of managers in today’s world. “Previously, managers focused primarily on motivating employees and ensuring productivity. However, in the modern workforce, managers are expected to take on several additional responsibilities such as cultivating team culture and inclusivity, driving digital and AI adoption as well as identifying mental health struggles among team members, and effectively communicate challenging news such as delayed promotions or stagnant pay raises.”

    Jane emphasised that it is essential to provide comprehensive training to equip managers with the skills necessary to navigate the complexities of the modern workforce. Current training protocols must be revised to align with the ever-changing demands of the workforce, acknowledging the need for ongoing support and development for newly appointed managers.

    Case Study

    Gen Z top biller Maddy Shelest, Principal Consultant at Robert Walters Sydney was recently given a promotion from managing consultant to manager. However, she quickly realised that she was happier with fewer managerial responsibilities. After only 6 months in the new role, she made the decision to sidestep into an individual contributor role.  

    Maddy said, “Ensuring a healthy work-life balance is a top priority for me, and I already observed a change in this aspect in the few weeks I was a manager. I found myself carrying work-related concerns home, which wasn’t as much of a problem when I was in a lower position. I soon realised that this added stress wasn’t worth it, so I quickly made the decision to step down. I believe that the conventional career path no longer resonates with the modern workforce. People have learnt how to say no and feel more comfortable deviating from traditional routes of career progression.”  

    Maddy also highlighted the new complexities of the modern workforce, saying “todays managers have added responsibilities regarding mental health and the need to manage remote work. Being a manager isn’t the same as it might have been 10 years ago.”

    She also emphasised that as a young manager, being only 25 when she was promoted, she faced challenges in establishing boundaries between her friendships and her role as a manager. She said, “Being friends with my team members before I became their manager made me feel somewhat uncomfortable. There’s such an expectation to be the ‘cool’ manager, which made it difficult for me to transition from being their friend to managing them. I also think my age posed difficulties in providing guidance in certain situations. For instance, at 25, I was going through similar experiences as my team members and dealing with my own challenges, so it was difficult for me as a 25-year-old to offer advice to other individuals of the same age.”

    Maddy said the decision was also influenced by the nature of the billing industry, which already places a high workload and pressure on individuals. She said, “Adding the additional pressures of management on top of billing responsibilities and expectations was not something I wanted to take on. When I was a manager, I noticed my billings went down. It was high stress, low reward. I prefer to focus on maximising my billing potential and did not want to divert my energy and time towards the complexities of managing people.”

    To keep up with the evolving workforce, organisations need to adapt their training and support programs for new managers. It is evident that the role of managers has undergone significant changes, and as such, their training should be updated accordingly. Additionally, employee priorities have shifted, with a greater emphasis on time outside of work and work-life balance, especially in the post-Covid era. With the introduction of Gen Z into the workforce, it is imperative for organisations to take steps to make manager positions more appealing to this generation.  

    About Robert Walters  

    Robert Walters is one of the world’s leading specialist professional recruitment consultancies with a global presence spanning 31 countries. The Australian business recruits across the fields of accounting & finance, banking, engineering & operations, general management, human resources, information technology, legal, risk management, compliance & audit, sales, marketing & communications, secretarial & business support and supply chain & procurement.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Australia – CommSec nudges 3 million users as mobile and international trading takes off

    Source: Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA)

    Nearly half of CommSec customers and 75 per cent of CommSec Pocket users are under 40.

    Young Australians are flocking to self-directed investing according to CommSec with new accounts increasing by 37 percent year-on-year, taking Australia’s leading digital investment platform to almost 3 million customers.  

    According to CommSec data , investors under 40 make up nearly half of all CommSec’s customers and 48 per cent of trades are now made via mobile.  

    The analysis also reveals the popularity of international trading and CommSec Pocket, with new accounts up 96 per cent and 50 per cent respectively over the year to June 30, 2024.

    CommSec’s international trading platform offers a fast account set-up experience and easy access to 13 international equity markets including the US, Canada, Japan and the UK, with brokerage rates starting from USD$5 on US markets.

    Through CommSec Pocket, investors with as little as $50 can build an investing portfolio over time by choosing from ten themed investment options, providing the opportunity to align their investments to their interests, whether that be tech, sustainability leaders, or the biggest 200 companies on the Aussie market, or globally.

    “The growing popularity of our international trading platform and CommSec Pocket points to investor demand for a simple, accessible, low-cost trading experience and we’re pleased to see significant customer growth across both platforms over the past year,” said CommSec Executive General Manager James Fowle.

    “With investors under 40 making up nearly half of our 2.9 million customers, CommSec’s low-cost, intuitive and educational investment platform has been built to meet the needs of the next generation of investors. Likewise, our investment in delivering a market-leading mobile experience continues to gather momentum as trading via this channel grows across our customer base,” Mr Fowle added.

    Female investors now make up 38 per cent of CommSec accounts, with data indicating that they were more likely to invest in the ASX200 than their male counterparts over the past year.

    The CommSec data revealed a number of additional insights into customers:

    343,000 new CommSec accounts opened in FY241
    The five most traded domestic shares by value2:

    BHP Group Ltd (ASX:BHP)
    Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX:CBA)
    Fortescue Ltd (ASX: FMG)
    Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX:WDS)
    Pilbara Minerals (ASX:PLS)
     

    The five most traded international shares by value:

    NVIDIA Corp (NASDAQ:NVDA)
    Tesla Inc (NASDAQ:TSLA)
    ProShares UltraPro QQQ (NASDAQ:TQQQ)
    Apple Inc (NASDAQ:AAPL)
    MicroStrategy Inc (NASDAQ) MSTR

    5 August 2024 was the highest value trading day since 14 June 2022, coinciding with a 3% drop in the S&P 500 index following a disappointing U.S. employment report.

    CommSec is Australia’s leading online broker, offering the best mobile trading solutions for self-directed retail investors and has been recognised by Canstar for its category leading features. CommSec is a subsidiary of the Commonwealth Bank of Australia.

    For more information, visit: commsec.com.au

    1CommSec customer insights as at 30/6/24
    2CommSec customer insights in the six months to 29/9/24

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial News: Stocks Turned to Growth in September, Ruble Continues to Decline

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Central Bank of Russia –

    In September, the Moscow Exchange Index grew for the first time since May — by 7.8%. The stock market was positively influenced, in particular, by news about dividends of individual companies.

    The weakening of the ruble continued. Against this background, citizens sold more currency than they bought for the first time since August last year.

    OFZ yields have increased, which has been accompanied by a negative revaluation of banks’ securities portfolios. However, its size is limited and does not have a significant impact on the overall stability of the banking sector.

    Read more in the next issue “Review of Financial Market Risks”.

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

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    http://vvv.kbr.ru/press/event/?id=21063

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: 10/08/2024, 15:36 (Moscow time) the values of the upper limit of the price corridor and the range of market risk assessment for the security RU000A0JW6P7 (VEB PBO1R1) were changed.

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Moscow Exchange – Moscow Exchange –

    08.10.2024 15:36

    In accordance with the Methodology for determining the risk parameters of the stock market and the deposit market of Moscow Exchange PJSC by NCO NCC (JSC), on 10/08/2024, 15:36 (Moscow time), the values of the upper limit of the price corridor (up to 102.37) and the range of market risk assessment (up to 1139.77 rubles, equivalent to a rate of 9.38%) of the security RU000A0JW6P7 (VEB PBO1R1) were changed

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

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    https://www.moex.com/n73823

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SCHUMER STATEMENT ON EPA REMOVAL OF ROCHESTER EMBAYMENT FROM LIST OF THE GREAT LAKES’ MOST POLLUTED AREAS

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New York Charles E Schumer
    New York, N.Y. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer released the following statement on the removal of the Rochester Embayment from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s list of the Great Lakes’ most environmentally degraded areas:
    “I was thrilled to lead the charge and secure $9.5 million in federal Great Lakes Restoration Initiative funding to finally rebuild the Braddock Bay barrier beach that Hurricane Agnes washed away in 1972 in the Town of Greece,” said Senator Charles Schumer. “In the four years since its reconstruction, Braddock Bay has been transformed from a pollution hotspot into a thriving area with healthy restored habitats for wildlife and improvements that returned tourism, boating, and recreation to the waterfront. The Braddock Bay restoration was the last of 14 major pollution- and ecologically-impaired hotspots along Rochester’s Lake Ontario and Genesee River embayment coastline – from Webster to Parma – that have now been cleaned up and restored thanks to federal GLRI funding. The water is cleaner, birds and fish are more abundant, beach closures are down, and the Rochester coastline can now be removed from the EPA’s list of ‘Areas of Concern.’ I fought to secure a historic $1 billion for the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law with moments like this in mind. Investing in the Great Lakes means investing in the future of New York, and I will always fight for funding so our community can enjoy the full natural beauty and economic energy of the wonderful communities along the Great Lakes.”
    Schumer has helped deliver nearly $14 million in federal funding through the federal Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI) to fund eight habitat restoration projects, including $9.5 million for the Braddock Bay restoration project. Thanks to those projects, 275 acres of habitat and 30,000 linear feet of wetland channeling have been restored to improve connectivity and biodiversity in the bay.
    Schumer has been a relentless champion for the Great Lakes, including securing a historic $1 billion – the largest ever single investment – in the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI) as a part of the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Law. Since its inception in 2010, Schumer noted, the GLRI has had a significant impact on Upstate New York. Schumer has long been a champion for the Great Lakes, fighting off budget cuts to the GLRI in 2019 and working to secure a multimillion-dollar increase in authorization levels for the program in 2018.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: Three Federal Treasury deposit auctions will take place on 10/09/2024

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Moscow Exchange – Moscow Exchange –

    Application selection parameters
    Date of the selection of applications 10/09/2024
    Unique identifier of the application selection 22024514
    Deposit currency rubles
    Type of funds funds of the single treasury account
    Maximum amount of funds placed in bank deposits, million monetary units 569,000
    Placement period, in days 2
    Date of deposit 10/09/2024
    Refund date 10/11/2024
    Interest rate for placement of funds (fixed or floating) FIXED
    Minimum fixed interest rate for placement of funds, % per annum 18.14
    Basic floating interest rate for placement of funds –
    Minimum spread, % per annum –
    Terms of conclusion of a bank deposit agreement (fixed-term, replenishable or special) Urgent
    Minimum amount of funds placed for one application, million monetary units 1,000
    Maximum number of applications from one credit institution, pcs. 5
    Application selection form (open or closed) Open
    Application selection schedule (Moscow time)
    Venue for the selection of applications PAO Moscow Exchange
    Applications accepted: from 09:30 to 09:40
    Preliminary applications: from 09:30 to 09:35
    Applications in competition mode: from 09:35 to 09:40
    Formation of a consolidated register of applications: from 09:40 to 09:50
    Setting a cut-off percentage rate and/or recognizing the selection of applications as unsuccessful: from 09:40 to 10:00
    Submission of an offer to credit institutions to conclude a bank deposit agreement: from 10:00 to 11:00
    Receiving acceptance of an offer to conclude a bank deposit agreement from credit institutions: from 10:00 to 11:00
    Deposit transfer time In accordance with the requirements of paragraph 63 and paragraph 64 of the Order of the Federal Treasury dated 04/27/2023 No. 10n
    Application selection parameters
    Date of the selection of applications 10/09/2024
    Unique identifier of the application selection 32024019
    Deposit currency rubles
    Type of funds funds of the Social Fund of Russia (SFRR)
    Maximum amount of funds placed in bank deposits, million monetary units 46.5
    Placement period, in days 75
    Date of deposit 10/09/2024
    Refund date 12/23/2024
    Interest rate for placement of funds (fixed or floating) FLOATING
    Minimum fixed interest rate for placement of funds, % per annum –
    Basic floating interest rate for placement of funds RUONmDS
    Minimum spread, % per annum 0.00
    Terms of conclusion of a bank deposit agreement (fixed-term, replenishable or special) Special
    Minimum amount of funds placed for one application, million monetary units 1
    Maximum number of applications from one credit institution, pcs. 5
    Application selection form (open or closed) Open
    Application selection schedule (Moscow time)
    Venue for the selection of applications PAO Moscow Exchange
    Applications accepted: from 12:30 to 12:40
    Pre-applications: from 12:30 to 12:35
    Applications in competition mode: from 12:35 to 12:40
    Formation of a consolidated register of applications: from 12:40 to 12:50
    Setting a cut-off percentage rate and/or recognizing the selection of applications as unsuccessful: from 12:40 to 13:00
    Submission of an offer to credit institutions to conclude a bank deposit agreement: from 13:00 to 14:00
    Receiving acceptance of an offer to conclude a bank deposit agreement from credit institutions: from 13:00 to 14:00
    Deposit transfer time In accordance with the requirements of paragraph 63 and paragraph 64 of the Order of the Federal Treasury dated 04/27/2023 No. 10n

    RUONmDS = RUONIA – DS, where

    RUONIA – the value of the indicative weighted rate of overnight ruble loans (deposits) RUONIA, expressed in hundredths of a percent, published on the official website of the Bank of Russia on the Internet on the day preceding the day for which interest is accrued. In the absence of a publication of the RUONIA rate value on the day preceding the day for which interest is accrued, the last of the published RUONIA rate values is taken into account.

    DS – discount – a value expressed in hundredths of a percent and rounded (according to the rules of mathematical rounding) to two decimal places, calculated by multiplying the value of the Key Rate of the Bank of Russia by the value of the required reserve ratio for other liabilities of credit institutions for banks with a universal license, non-bank credit institutions (except for long-term ones) in the currency of the Russian Federation, valid on the date for which interest is accrued, and published on the official website of the Bank of Russia on the Internet.

    Application selection parameters
    Date of the selection of applications 10/09/2024
    Unique identifier of the application selection 22024515
    Deposit currency rubles
    Type of funds funds of the single treasury account
    Maximum amount of funds placed in bank deposits, million monetary units 30,000
    Placement period, in days 98
    Date of deposit 10/10/2024
    Refund date 01/16/2025
    Interest rate for placement of funds (fixed or floating) FLOATING
    Minimum fixed interest rate for placement of funds, % per annum –
    Basic floating interest rate for placement of funds RUONmDS
    Minimum spread, % per annum 0.00
    Terms of conclusion of a bank deposit agreement (fixed-term, replenishable or special) Urgent
    Minimum amount of funds placed for one application, million monetary units 1,000
    Maximum number of applications from one credit institution, pcs. 5
    Application selection form (open or closed) Open
    Application selection schedule (Moscow time)
    Venue for the selection of applications PAO Moscow Exchange
    Applications accepted: from 15:30 to 15:40
    Pre-applications: from 15:30 to 15:35
    Applications in competition mode: from 15:35 to 15:40
    Formation of a consolidated register of applications: from 15:40 to 15:50
    Setting a cut-off percentage rate and/or recognizing the selection of applications as unsuccessful: from 15:40 to 16:00
    Submission of an offer to credit institutions to conclude a bank deposit agreement: from 16:00 to 17:00
    Receiving acceptance of an offer to conclude a bank deposit agreement from credit institutions: from 16:00 to 17:00
    Deposit transfer time In accordance with the requirements of paragraph 63 and paragraph 64 of the Order of the Federal Treasury dated 04/27/2023 No. 10n

    RUONmDS = RUONIA – DS, where

    RUONIA – the value of the indicative weighted rate of overnight ruble loans (deposits) RUONIA, expressed in hundredths of a percent, published on the official website of the Bank of Russia on the Internet on the day preceding the day for which interest is accrued. In the absence of a publication of the RUONIA rate value on the day preceding the day for which interest is accrued, the last of the published RUONIA rate values is taken into account.

    DS – discount – a value expressed in hundredths of a percent and rounded (according to the rules of mathematical rounding) to two decimal places, calculated by multiplying the value of the Key Rate of the Bank of Russia by the value of the required reserve ratio for other liabilities of credit institutions for banks with a universal license, non-bank credit institutions (except for long-term ones) in the currency of the Russian Federation, valid on the date for which interest is accrued, and published on the official website of the Bank of Russia on the Internet.

    Contact information for media 7 (495) 363-3232PR@moex.com

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

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    https://www.moex.com/n73836

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Whitehorse — RCMP report the remains of a missing man have been located

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    On September 16, 2024, a pickup truck pulling a trailer loaded with other vehicles went off the road into the Yukon River near the Lewes River Bridge. One male was able to exit the vehicle while the other male remained missing after the collision.

    On October 7, 2024, the missing male was located deceased in the Yukon River. The Yukon Coroner’s office is investigating and an autopsy has been ordered.

    Whitehorse RCMP would like to thank Yukon Search and Rescue and Whitehorse Fire Department for their support during the sustained search efforts.

    RCMP continue to conduct their investigation of the motor vehicle collision. For respect of the families involved and the integrity of the investigation, no further details will be released at this time.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Marshall Leads Effort Ensuring Biden-Harris Agency Stops Censorship Online 

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kansas Roger Marshall
    Washington, D.C. – Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. led a letter to the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) expressing concerns over the agency’s monitoring of online political speech leading up to the 2024 election cycle. In the letter, Senator Marshall and his colleagues warn that the agency’s actions risk First Amendment violations by censoring speech on popular social media and search engine platforms. The senators pointed to a similar effort by CISA during the 2020 election cycle that led to widespread censorship of American citizens. 
    “The First Amendment prohibits the government from ‘abridging freedom of speech’ and the Supreme Court has recognized that for ‘core political speech’ ‘the importance of First Amendment protections is at its zenith.’ In today’s world, ‘core political speech’ is often found on social media platforms. Instead of respecting these long-standing norms, CISA has in the past worked with partners to violate them, thus undermining trust in the agency for many Americans,” the senators wrote. “To quote the Supreme Court, ‘if there is a fixed star in our constitutional constellation, it is that no official, high or petty, can prescribe what shall be orthodox in politics, nationalism, religion, or other matters of opinion.’ This is why we are writing to discourage CISA from prescribing what is favored and disfavored speech going forward. Millions of Americans expect nothing less from their government,” the senators continued.
    Senator Marshall and his colleagues urged CISA to prioritize its core mission of protecting America’s critical cybersecurity infrastructure. The senators closed their letter by demanding CISA confirm it will not censor Americans’ online speech or collaborate with groups aiming to control online information or opinions.
    Senator Marshall led this letter alongside Senators Bill Hagerty (R-TN) and Eric Schmitt (R-MO).   You may click HERE or scroll below to read Senator Marshall’s letter to CISA.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Banking and Finance – ASB lowers mortgage rates

    Source: ASB

    ASB has today announced reductions to its fixed mortgage rates, with several short and mid-term rates falling by up to 16 basis points.  

    ASB’s Executive General Manager Personal Banking Adam Boyd says “We’re pleased to lower our mortgage rates across some popular terms in response to dips in wholesale rates, and we know mortgage rates trending downwards in recent months will be a relief for many households. We’re optimistic this relief will be extended to more Kiwi with the OCR decision this afternoon.”

    ASB has also reduced its term deposit rates by between 5 and 20 basis points each.

    All rate decreases are effective immediately for new and current customers.

     

    Fixed home lending term

    New rate

    Previous rate

    Rate decrease

    6-month

    6.75%

    6.85%

    -0.10%

    1-year

    6.19%

    6.35%

    -0.16%

    18-month

    5.89%

    5.99%

    -0.10%

    2-year

    5.69%

    5.79%

    -0.10%

    3-year

    5.69%

    5.79%

    -0.10%

     

     

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: BusinessNZ – ACC accounts under pressure

    Source: BusinessNZ

    Better claims management and more transparent levy-setting are needed to return ACC Accounts to financial health, BusinessNZ says.
    BusinessNZ’s submission on ACC’s levy-setting for 2025-28 notes that some ACC Accounts are currently underfunded, a situation which will lead to unjustified pressure on future levy payers.
    BusinessNZ Chief Executive Katherine Rich says ACC needs to be adequately resourced to ensure injured people receive rapid and cost-effective treatment and rehabilitation where required while at the same time being responsive to levy payers to minimise overall costs.
    “While we understand why ACC is proposing levy increases across the various Accounts, many levy payers will not welcome the proposed increases – which will add further pressure on businesses, workers and motor vehicle owners during challenging economic times and cost-of-living pressures.
    “The Government is responding to the economic challenge by seeking to restrain core Crown operating spending and has called on local government to focus on ‘doing the basics brilliantly.’ We believe ACC should do likewise.”
    Mrs Rich says there’s concern at the fact that the Earners Account is currently only 90% funded, with a shortfall of $1.6 billion, and given proposed levy rates, will fall to only 67% funded in 10 years.
    “ACC legislation requires all Accounts to be fully funded to ensure they can meet the lifetime cost of current claims. We believe this legal requirement is currently not being met.
    “There is also concern at the longer-term trend of claim volumes rising faster than population growth.
    “We believe ACC should proactively improve systems for accepting, managing and monitoring claims, and should manage all Accounts transparently, without cross-subsidies.
    “It is important that the businesses, workers and vehicle owners contributing levies to the ACC Scheme have confidence that the Scheme is being funded and managed according to its statutory requirements,” Mrs Rich said.
    The BusinessNZ Network including BusinessNZ, EMA, Business Central, Business Canterbury and Business South, represents and provides services to thousands of businesses, small and large, throughout New Zealand.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Iraq

    Source: New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade – Safe Travel

    • Reviewed: 9 October 2024, 10:56 NZDT
    • Still current at: 9 October 2024

    Related news features

    If you are planning international travel at this time, please read our COVID-19 related travel advice here, alongside our destination specific travel advice below.

    Do not travel to Iraq including the Kurdistan region due to the volatile and unpredictable security situation, the ongoing threat of terrorism, violent extremism and organised crime (level 4 of 4).

    New Zealanders currently in Iraq despite our advice who have concerns for their safety are strongly advised to depart as soon as possible.

    Iraq

    As there is no New Zealand diplomatic presence in Iraq, the ability of the government to assist New Zealand citizens requiring consular assistance is severely limited. We offer advice to New Zealanders about contingency planning that travellers to Iraq should consider.

    Security Situation
    The security situation in Iraq remains highly volatile and could deteriorate further, with little or no warning. The terrorist group Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant remains active in parts of the country, as do other violent extremist groups engaged in sectarian, ethnic and tribal violence and organised crime. Political instability, crime and corruption, and civil unrest are also common in Iraq.

    Terrorism
    There is a continuing threat of violent attacks across Iraq from terrorist groups. Suicide bomb attacks, roadside bombs, car bombs, rocket attacks, drone attacks and small arms attacks occur frequently. Thousands of people have been killed and injured in these attacks throughout Iraq.

    Attacks can occur without warning at anytime, anywhere in Iraq. Terrorists, violent extremists and both pro and anti-government militias continue to conduct frequent and lethal attacks on a wide range of targets in Iraq.

    Targets include Iraqi Security Forces, government offices, large public gatherings, places of worship, airports, sites frequented by foreigners and residential areas to maximise casualties. While attacks can happen at any time, there is a heightened threat during religious and public holidays. There is also a heightened threat of attacks against Western interests.

    While the security situation in the Kurdistan region is slightly different to the rest of Iraq, there remains a risk of attacks by terrorist groups. Terrorist groups remain active close to the Kurdish region and the security situation in the region could deteriorate quickly.

    Kidnapping/Crime
    Violent crime, kidnapping and corruption are widespread throughout Iraq. Organised criminal groups, militia and tribal groups pose a significant threat. Although violent crime does occur during the day, security conditions get much worse after dark.

    Kidnapping for ransom and hostage taking by extremists and militant groups for ideological reasons, political gain or ransom is a significant threat throughout Iraq. Over the past decade a large number of foreign nationals have been kidnapped in Iraq, including aid workers, security contractors, journalists and soldiers.  Many hostages have been killed or remain missing.

    Women and girls in particular may be subject to harassment or mistreatment. Some sectors of Iraqi society and institutions have been known to overlook allegations of domestic violence against women when it is committed by close family members.

    Civil Unrest
    Political rallies and protests happen frequently in Baghdad and Basra and to a lesser extent Erbil. They can turn violent quickly and have led to injury and death in the past. Political rallies and protests also present viable targets for terrorists.  Police may use tear gas, water cannons and live ammunition to disperse crowds. 

    New Zealanders in Iraq are advised to avoid all demonstrations, protests and large public gatherings as even those intended as peaceful have the potential to turn violent with little warning. Comply with any instructions issued by the local authorities, including any curfews or vehicle bans. Monitor local and international media, review personal security plans and be aware of your surroundings. If unexpectedly in the vicinity of a protest or demonstration, exercise caution and leave the area quickly, find a safe location, remain indoors and follow any local advice.

    Security Forces
    Iraqi Security Forces and international coalition forces are engaged in an ongoing terrorist counter insurgency across central and northern Iraq. They also have a strong presence across the rest of Iraq and conduct targeted airstrikes against militants.

    Security restrictions like curfews and vehicle bans can be imposed at short notice.

    Security checkpoints are common place and often ad hoc, however false checkpoints have also been used to launch attacks, kidnapping, robbery and murder.

    Iraq has a large number of diverse security forces. They do not all enjoy cooperative relationships with one and other.

    Turkish and Iranian security forces have also been known to conduct military incursions targeting terrorist or militia groups across Iraq’s northern borders.

    Local travel
    Travel across Iraq can be extremely dangerous and there continue to be fatal attacks involving roadside bombs and small arms fire.

    There is also an ongoing threat from armed carjacking and robbery. Attacks happen during the day, but travelling at night is more dangerous.

    Domestic and international border crossings and Iraqi airports may close with little or no notice. Avoid travel to border areas as clashes, air strikes and other violent incidents are common. Sensitive border areas, especially with Syria and Turkey, are military targets.

    Piracy
    Pirate attacks and armed robbery against ships occur in coastal waters, particularly in the northern Persian Gulf, Gulf of Oman, Northern Arabian Sea, Gulf of Aden and Bab El Mandeb regions. Mariners should take appropriate precautions. For more information, view the International Maritime Bureaus’ piracy report. 

    Mosul Dam
    The Government of Iraq has taken and continues to take measures to improve the structural integrity of the Mosul Dam. A dam failure could cause significant flooding and disruptions to essential services from Mosul to Baghdad, along the Tigris River as well as areas adjoining the dam. A failure of the Mosul Dam cannot be predicted. Monitor local media reports and prepare contingency plans. 

    General Travel Advice
    Although homosexuality is not explicitly illegal under Iraqi law, people of the same sex who engage in consensual sexual acts may be prosecuted under other provisions of law, such as public indecency, and local attitudes towards LGBTQI+ people may be hostile. Violence, harassment and discrimination against LGBTQI+ people does occur, you are advised to exercise discretion.

    New Zealanders who decide to travel to Iraq are strongly encouraged to: 

    • Consult a reputable security company (with experience in Iraq) for advice on security arrangements. Security arrangements should be reviewed on a regular basis. Such measures may mitigate the risks to your safety but cannot eliminate them entirely.
    • Ensure that appropriate personal security protection measures are in place at all times including a robust contingency plan. The New Zealand government will not be arranging an evacuation for New Zealand citizens, should commercial options for departure cease.
    • Avoid areas of military activity at all times including border areas, as these areas are dangerous, often the target of military operations and not always clearly defined.
    • Have a comprehensive travel insurance policy in place that includes provision for medical evacuation by air. You should check that your travel insurance policy covers travel in Iraq – exclusions may well apply.
    • Be highly security conscious at all times, particularly in public places when travelling by road and close to government offices.
    • New Zealanders are advised to respect religious and social traditions in Iraq to avoid offending local sensitivities. 
    • Follow restrictions imposed by the local authorities and seek local advice on any changes to curfews. Exercise particular caution at checkpoints, a uniform is not a guarantee that the wearer is acting in an official capacity.
    • Monitor local developments closely through media and other information sources on possible new safety and security risks. Follow instructions from local authorities. Remain vigilant and alert to your surroundings.

    New Zealanders who decide to live or travel in Iraq against our advice are strongly advised to register their details with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

    Travel tips

    The New Zealand Embassy Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates is accredited to Iraq

    Street Address Level 25, Suite 2503, International Tower, Capital Centre, Abu Dhabi, UAE Postal Address PO Box 62292, Abu Dhabi Telephone +971 2 496-3333 Fax +971-2-496-3300 Email nzembassy.abu.dhabi@mfat.govt.nz Web Site http://www.mfat.govt.nz/united-arab-emirates Hours Mon-Wed 0900-1600, Thu 0900-1530, Fri 0900-1130 Notarial Services: By appointment only, please email to arrange Note Facebook: @nzembassyuae Twitter: @nzinuae

    See our regional advice for the Middle East

    Top of page

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Motor vehicle improvements are helping to reduce air pollutant emissions – Stats NZ media and information release: New Zealand’s environmental reporting series: Our air 2024

    Source: Statistics New Zealand

    Motor vehicle improvements are helping to reduce air pollutant emissions – 9 October 2024 – Improvements to the motor vehicle fleet are helping to reduce air pollutant emissions in Aotearoa New Zealand.

    That is one of the findings of the Ministry for the Environment (MfE) and Stats NZ’s latest three-yearly update about air quality in Aotearoa. Our air 2024 brings together recently updated Stats NZ indicator data, as well as insights from research literature. The report shows that air pollutant levels have decreased at most monitoring sites over the last eight years. However, some sites showed worsening air quality, while pollutant levels at sites where air quality improved were at times above levels in World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines.

    MfE’s Deputy Secretary – Strategy, Stewardship and Performance, Natasha Lewis, says emissions from motor vehicles (as well as aviation, shipping and rail) were lower in 2019 than in 2012 for all monitored pollutants, except sulphur dioxide. “Air pollutants from motor vehicle exhaust emissions are reducing per kilometre as a result of vehicle emissions standards, lower-emissions vehicles and improvements in engine technology and fuel quality,” she says.

    Visit our website to read this news story and information release:

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Gabe Vasquez Unveils New Bill to Support the Next Generation of Farmers

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Gabe Vasquez’s (NM-02)

    LAS CRUCES, N.M. – U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (N.M.-02) announced the introduction of his bill, the Farmer-to-Farmer Education Act, that supports farmers by creating mentorship programs where experienced farmers can provide hands-on training and guidance to new producers. 

    In New Mexico, farming is a way of life that has been passed down through generations. However, many new farmers often face challenges in accessing vital information from federal agencies. The Farmer-to-Farmer Education Act ensures that new farmers have access to local, on-the-ground knowledge from experienced farmers who have been cultivating their land for generations.

    “My Farmer-to-Farmer Education Act will ensure young, upstart farmers can run productive, sustainable farms by directly connecting them to seasoned growers who understand their challenges,” said Vasquez. “Our farming population is aging, and we are facing a significant shortage of skilled new farmers. This program ensures the quick and efficient exchange of local knowledge — providing beginning farmers with ways to overcome many of their existing barriers.”

    “There are no better or more trusted voices for farmers looking to adopt conservation practices than other farmers,” said Samantha Levy, Conservation and Climate Policy Manager for the American Farmland Trust. “We applaud Rep. Vasquez for introducing a bill that would build the capacity for farmer-to-farmer networksto provide the very support farmers and ranchers — including young and farmers of color — need to implement practices critical to the resilience and viability of their operations.”

    The Farmer-to-Farmer Education Act will promote regional knowledge exchange by encouraging farmers to share their farming practices and experiences that have worked in the area with new farmers and will improve communication between federal agencies and local farming communities to ensure that all farmers have access to essential information and support. By having someone with firsthand experience address the difficulties that can prevent farmers from trying a new practice, the next generation of farmers will be better equipped to succeed and ensure the longevity of farming in New Mexico.

    “The majority of young and beginning farmers are motivated by stewarding and protecting the land and natural resources. In fact, 83% of young farmers who took the National Young Farmer Survey stated that one of their farm’s primary purposes for existing is to ‘engage in conservation or regeneration,’” said Lotanna Obodozie, Climate Policy Director of National Young Farmers Coalition. “However, they are starting their farm businesses in an increasingly uncertain climate. When looking for information on how to adapt to a changing climate, many farming communities already hold deep knowledge on how to build resilience and mitigate climate change in their region. Young farmers just need these connections and resources. The Farmer-to-Farmer Education Act will provide critical investments in farmer-led education, particularly for young farmers and farmers of color, who are already leaders in building resilience and enhancing conservation on their farms.” 

    As a member of the House Agriculture Committee, Vasquez is committed to supporting agricultural producers and ensuring that the rich tradition of farming continues to flourish in New Mexico and every corner of the United States.

    The bill is endorsed by the American Farmland Trust, National Young Farmers Coalition, National Wildlife Federation, Rocky Mountain Farmers Union, La Semilla, The Nature Conservancy, Kiss the Ground, New Mexico Healthy Soils Working Group and more. The full list of endorsements is available HERE.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –