Category: Americas

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Dmitry Chernyshenko: All regions of Russia and eight friendly countries participate in the Abilympics championship

    Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

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

    Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Chernyshenko attended the events of the final of the National Championship of Professional Skills among the Disabled and People with Limited Health Abilities “Abilympics”, which started at Gostiny Dvor in Moscow.

    Previous news Next news

    Dmitry Chernyshenko attended the events of the final of the National Championship of Professional Skills among the Disabled and People with Disabilities “Abilympics”, which started in Gostiny Dvor in Moscow

    The Deputy Prime Minister emphasized the importance of the championship and noted that in 10 years, Abilympics has come a long way, increasing the number of participants from 250 to 120 thousand.

    “We have more than 1.2 million children with various types of disabilities who need to be given the opportunity to compete and be active citizens of society. And, as President Vladimir Putin instructed, to realize their potential and talents. And we saw a lot of talent at the championship. Today, representatives of all regions of the country are here, including new subjects. What is noteworthy is that eight friendly countries are also participating in these competitions. I believe that the most important result of “Abilympics” is that 93% of participants find work after the championship,” said Dmitry Chernyshenko.

    The Deputy Prime Minister also expressed gratitude to the Moscow government, where the Abilympics finals are traditionally held. He emphasized that he is grateful to businesses that responsibly approach the creation of jobs for people with disabilities.

    The Deputy Prime Minister visited the venues where the championship was held. At the stand of the Ministry of Industry and Trade of Russia, he was presented with the latest technical rehabilitation equipment for people with disabilities. He also got acquainted with the exhibition and sale of goods from entrepreneurs who opened their own businesses.

    In addition, the Deputy Prime Minister spoke with participants and experts in various competencies, including Pottery, Industrial Robotics, Graphic Design, and Character Design/Animation.

    At Gostiny Dvor, the Deputy Prime Minister was accompanied by Deputy Minister of Education Olga Koludarova, Minister of the Moscow Government, Head of the Moscow Department of Labor and Social Protection of the Population Evgeny Struzhak, and Head of the National Center “Abilympics” of the Institute for the Development of Professional Education Dina Makeeva.

    “Over the past 10 years, the movement has become an important part of the system of professional education and employment of people with disabilities. Thanks to Abilympics, thousands of talented schoolchildren, students and working citizens have the opportunity to demonstrate their skills and abilities, as well as find a job they like. And we are confident that the Abilympics movement will continue to develop. This year, regional centers for the development of the movement opened in the Donetsk People’s Republic and the Kherson region. We hope that in the future, Abilympics will open its representative offices in all regions of our country,” noted Dina Makeeva.

    The championship competitions in 2024 will be held in 50 approved core competencies in 11 areas of the economy: education, IT technologies, arts and crafts, creative industries, industry, catering, services, economics and management, construction, and medical professions. The judging will be carried out by 277 experts from 52 subjects of the Russian Federation.

    It is also planned to hold competitions in 12 competencies and 1 presentation competence of the championship with the participation of representatives of friendly states in person: the Republic of Azerbaijan, the Republic of Abkhazia, the Republic of Belarus, the Republic of Zimbabwe and the State of Qatar. Representatives of the Republic of Armenia, the Republic of Nicaragua and the People’s Republic of China will participate remotely.

    Over 10 years, the number of subjects of the Russian Federation where regional Abilympics championships are held has increased from 29 to 89, and the number of competitive competencies has grown from 29 to 206.

    The project operator is the National Center “Abilympics” of the Institute for the Development of Professional Education, Ministry of Education of the Russian Federation.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Minister Hussen announces support for financial stability in developing countries at the 2024 Annual Meetings of the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank Group

    Source: Government of Canada News

    News release

    October 26, 2024 – Washington, D.C. – Global Affairs Canada

    Financial inclusion gives people a fair chance to succeed. However, with the rising cost of living, regional conflicts, and natural disasters caused by climate change, financial pressures have impacted everyday life, especially for the world’s most vulnerable.

    Yesterday, the Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of International Development concluded his participation at the 2024 Annual Meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank Group (WBG) in Washington. While there, he announced a $20 million contribution to the Toronto Centre over five years.

    Canada’s investment will expand the reach of the Toronto Centre’s tailored training to financial regulators in developing countries, including for women. Women continue to be less likely than men to have access to financial institutions, or even have their own bank account. Gender inclusive training can help break the cycle of gender-based poverty – changing lives and increasing women’s participation in the economy. The project focuses on Sub-Saharan Africa, the Indo-Pacific region and special assistance to Ukraine.

    Minister Hussen also engaged with global partners, World Bank management and other key stakeholders, committed to working with Canada to improve accessing to finance for those who need it most, especially women, a priority under Canada’s Feminist International Assistance Policy. The World Bank Group is an important partner in funding development projects that help increase financial stability, making it easier for people to access financial services, and providing support in times of crisis.

    Quotes

    “Canada is proud to continue our partnership with the Toronto Centre. This Canadian powerhouse has a long track record of strengthening financial systems through their training and expertise. What this means is that more women and girls will get access to stable financial resources, unlocking the door to reaching their full potential. Together, Canada and the Toronto Centre will continue to build a more inclusive financial sector around the world.”

    – Ahmed Hussen, Minister of International Development

    “We are deeply grateful to Global Affairs Canada for their continued support since our inception in 1998. This timely funding renewal strengthens our ability to build capacity in emerging markets and developing economies in line with the sustainable development goals to spur financial resilience and inclusion, mobilize domestic resources, and alleviate poverty. Our foundational institution-building work strengthens financial regulatory environments, fostering sustainable growth and building global confidence.” 

    – Babak Abbaszadeh, President and CEO, Toronto Centre

    Quick facts

    • Canada is a founding member of the World Bank Group and the International Monetary Fund and is represented at their Boards by Canada’s Minister of Finance.

    • The WBG is Canada’s largest development partner institution. Since 1945, we have worked together in every major area of development and in boosting shared prosperity through inclusive, sustainable economic growth and development.

    • The Annual Meetings for the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank is an opportunity for the global community to come together and advance a range of issues related to poverty reduction and international economic development, while advancing the Sustainable Development Goals.

    • In June 2024, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced that Canada would purchase $274 million (US$200 million) in hybrid capital from the World Bank’s International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD). This innovative financing mechanism provides additional capacity for the Bank to provide loans to developing countries, with a leverage factor of 6.5 times. This means up to $1.8 billion in additional lending is available to help developing countries meet the SDGs – from improving education and health to reducing food insecurity and carbon footprints.

    • Canada is a founding member of the Toronto Centre and together, they have built a partnership that dates back to 1998.

    • The Toronto Centre has hosted regular side events within the IMF and World Bank Annual and Spring meetings.

    • Since inception in 1998, Toronto Centre has enhanced the capacity of more than 28,000 financial supervisors from 190 countries and territories to build more stable, resilient, and inclusive financial systems.

    Associated links

    Contacts

    Olivia Batten
    Press Secretary
    Office of the Minister of International Development
    Olivia.Batten@international.gc.ca

    Media Relations Office
    Global Affairs Canada
    media@international.gc.ca
    Follow us on X (Twitter): @CanadaDev
    Like us on Facebook: Canada’s international development – Global Affairs Canada
    Follow us on Instagram: @canadadev

    MIL OSI Canada News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Scott Statement on Federal Judge Ordering Youngkin Administration to Reinstate more than 1,600 Voters to Virginia’s Voter Rolls

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Bobby Scott (3rd District of Virginia)

    Headline: Scott Statement on Federal Judge Ordering Youngkin Administration to Reinstate more than 1,600 Voters to Virginia’s Voter Rolls

    NEWPORT NEWS, VA – Congressman Bobby Scott (VA-03), co-chair of the Congressional Voting Rights Caucus and Dean of the Virginia Congressional Delegation, issued the following statement on U.S. District Court Judge Patricia Tolliver Giles’ order requiring the Youngkin Administration to reinstate more than 1,600 voters who may have been illegally purged from Virginia’s voter rolls in violation of the National Voter Registration Act of 1993:

    “I am pleased that a federal court has reinstated more than 1,600 voters to Virginia’s voter rolls. For the last three election cycles, I have been concerned that Governor Youngkin and his administration have arbitrarily removed eligible voters from the Commonwealth’s voter rolls, and I have been especially concerned that these purges have occurred so close to Election Day.

    “In the two weeks before the 2023 Virginia General Assembly elections, the Youngkin Administration improperly removed 3,400 qualified voters, possibly in violation of Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act. In his August 7, 2024 executive order, the Governor ordered daily systematic purges of voters resulting in the potential illegal purge of more eligible voters. The National Voter Registration Act requires all states to complete any systematic removal of ineligible voters no later than 90 days prior to a federal election for voters to have adequate time to remedy any improper removal. In its review of these 1,600 voters, the U.S. Department of Justice found multiple instances of incorrect removals due to bureaucratic errors or mistakes made by the individual when filling out forms. Judge Tolliver Giles’ order recognizes that the Plaintiffs in this case are likely to succeed on the merits and would have suffered irreparable harm by denying their ability to exercise their right to vote at the ballot box on November 5th.

    “These efforts by Governor Youngkin and Republicans across the country are squarely within former President Trump’s playbook to undermine confidence in our elections and call into question the results of this November’s election if he does not win. There is no evidence that non-citizens are voting in any meaningful numbers, and to suggest otherwise is dishonest and only serves to undermine faith in our elections. These efforts only disenfranchise actual citizens from being able to exercise their right to vote. I expect the Governor and his administration to immediately reinstate these voters and notify them per the U.S. District Court’s order. Additionally, the U.S. Department of Justice must vigorously investigate these matters to protect the right to vote for all who are eligible and hold accountable all who violate the law.”

     

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: FEMA is Hosting a Job Fair in Augusta

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: FEMA is Hosting a Job Fair in Augusta

    FEMA is Hosting a Job Fair in Augusta

    ATLANTA – Are you interested in applying for a federal job? Join FEMA at a job fair on Wednesday, Oct. 30 in Augusta to learn how to navigate USAjobs.gov, the federal government’s official web-based employment webpage that lets you access thousands of job opportunities across hundreds of federal agencies and organizations. FEMA representatives will be on hand, providing training on how to navigate through usajobs.gov, create a profile, and build an effective resume in the resume builder tool. Computers will be available at the fair to help attendees access the website and create their online profile.  The fair will take place from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. You do not need to register to attend.How to attend: Date and time: Wednesday, Oct. 30 from 9:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.Location: May Park Community Center, 622 4th Street. Augusta, Georgia 30901For the latest information about Georgia’s recovery, visit fema.gov/helene/georgia and fema.gov/disaster/4821. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or follow FEMA on social media at: FEMA Blog on fema.gov, @FEMA or @FEMAEspanol on X, FEMA or FEMA Espanol on Facebook, @FEMA on Instagram, and via FEMA YouTube channel. Also, follow Administrator Deanne Criswell on Twitter @FEMA_Deanne.
    minh.phan
    Sat, 10/26/2024 – 14:45

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Government of Yukon introduces 2023–24 Public Accounts to the Legislative Assembly

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Today the 2023–24 Public Accounts was tabled in the Yukon Legislative Assembly. The Public Accounts present the Government of Yukon’s financial statements and reflect the government’s finances for the previous fiscal year. The 2023–24 Public Accounts show the government’s financial position on March 31, 2024.

    MIL OSI Canada News

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Canada formally apologizes to five Anishinaabeg First Nations

    Source: Government of Canada News

    News release

    October 26, 2024 — (Manitoulin Island, ON) — Crown–Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada and Aundeck Omni Kaning First Nation, M’Chigeeng First Nation, Sheguiandah First Nation, Sheshegwaning First Nation and Zhiibaahaasing First Nation

    Today, the Honourable Gary Anandasangaree, Minister of Crown–Indigenous Relations, on behalf of the Government of Canada, formally apologized to Aundeck Omni Kaning, M’Chigeeng, Sheguiandah, Sheshegwaning and Zhiibaahaasing First Nations for past wrongs relating to the Crown’s mismanagement of their monies in the late 1800s and the negative impacts experienced by the five communities as a result.

    This long-overdue apology was delivered at a ceremony held today with First Nations leadership, Elders, youth and community members at Aundeck Omni Kaning First Nation. Approximately 100 people were in attendance.

    At the ceremony, the Government of Canada and the First Nations also commemorated a claim settlement that provides a total of $447.9 million in compensation to be shared among the five First Nations. This financial settlement resolves three historical claims which date back to the late 1800s and are the focus of the apology delivered today.

    The apology relates to the Crown’s mismanagement of the First Nations’ monies from past land sales in the late 1800s following an agreement made with the First Nations in 1862. Instead of enabling these Anishinaabeg communities to thrive and economically benefit from the land sales, the Crown used the profits  – the monies intended for the First Nations – to build roads and open up Manitoulin Island for settlement. In doing so, the Crown failed to act honourably and uphold its relationship with the First Nations, going against the spirit and intent of the Treaties, breaking its promises and creating injustices which continue to be felt by the communities today.

    This formal statement of apology and co-developed settlement are key steps toward healing and reconciliation with Aundeck Omni Kaning, M’Chigeeng, Sheguiandah, Sheshegwaning and Zhiibaahaasing First Nations. This is also an opportunity for all people in Canada to learn about our shared history and the harmful legacies of colonialism so we can move toward greater understanding and respect.

    Confronting our history and addressing past wrongs is critical to advancing reconciliation in Canada and rebuilding trust with First Nations communities.

    Quotes

    “Acknowledging and apologizing for past wrongs is the right thing to do. This settlement with Aundeck Omni Kaning, M’Chigeeng, Sheguiandah, Sheshegwaning and Zhiibaahaasing pays a longstanding debt that is rightfully owed to the First Nations. Nothing can undo the past or the pain it has caused, but it is crucial that we listen to Indigenous communities on how to best move forward. It is our hope that today’s apology will be a turning point in our Nation-to-Nation relationships with these five First Nations as we continue to co-develop shared solutions and build a better future based on mutual respect and true partnership.”

    The Honourable Gary Anandasangaree
    Minister of Crown–Indigenous Relations

    “This has been a long time coming. It is good to finally see some compensation coming to the First Nations.”

    Chief Patsy Corbiere,
    Aundeck Omni Kaning

    “This is a long overdue moment. We look forward to a positive result for our First Nation.”

    Chief Morgan Hare,
    M’Chigeeng First Nation

    “Community partnerships have proven that working together on the Manitoulin Project is the best way to strengthen our communities, which creates a positive future for generations to come.”

    Chief Jason Aguonie,
    Sheguiandah First Nation

    “Sheshegwaning is glad that Canada has taken this important step to resolve such long-standing breaches of fiduciary duty.”

    Chief Alana Endanawas,
    Sheshegwaning First Nation

    “Our community suffered the loss of these funds for too many years. We look forward to finally building for our families and in line with our vision.”

    Chief Irene Kells,
    Zhiibaahaasing First Nation

    Quick facts

    • The five First Nations have long sought justice and fair compensation for the three historical claims (which are often called “the Manitoulin Project”).

    • The First Nations and Canada began talks in 2016 to find the common ground for resolving these claims outside of the courts.

    • Negotiators for the parties completed their work on the settlement in December 2023.

    • First Nations members approved the settlement in community votes held in March 2024, with 98 percent of those who voted voting in favour.

    • The settlement was signed by the First Nations and Canada in August 2024.

    • The United Chiefs and Councils of Mnidoo Mnising represented the five Anishinaabeg First Nations in the negotiations: Aundeck Omni Kaning, M’Chigeeng, Sheguiandah, Sheshegwaning and Zhiibaahaasing.

    Associated links

    Contacts

    For more information, media may contact:

    Gregory Frame
    Press Secretary
    Office of the Honourable Gary Anandasangaree
    Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations
    gregory.frame@rcaanc-cirnac.gc.ca

    Media Relations
    Crown–Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada
    819-934-2302
    RCAANC.media.CIRNAC@sac-isc.gc.ca

    Chief Patsy Corbiere
    Aundeck Omni Kaning
    (705) 368-2228

    Chief Morgan Hare
    M’Chigeeng First Nation
    (705) 377-5362

    Chief Jason Aguonie
    Sheguiandah First Nation
    (705) 368-2781

    Chief Alana Endanawas
    Sheshegwaning First Nation
    (705) 283-3292

    Chief Irene Sagon Kells
    Zhiibaahaasing First Nation
    (705) 283-3963

    Stay connected

    Join the conversation about Indigenous Peoples in Canada:

    X: @GCIndigenous
    Facebook: @GCIndigenous
    Instagram: @gcindigenous

    You can subscribe to receive our news releases and speeches via RSS feeds. For more information or to subscribe, visit http://www.cirnac.gc.ca/RSS

    MIL OSI Canada News

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Statement from Premier Pillai on the Ta’an Kwäch’än Council election

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Premier Ranj Pillai has issued the following statement:

    “On behalf of the Government of Yukon, I offer congratulations to Ruth Massie on her election as Chief and to Michelle Telep on her election as Deputy Chief for the Ta’an Kwäch’än Council.

    “Chief Massie previously served as Chief of the Ta’an Kwäch’än Council as well as two terms as Grand Chief of the Council of Yukon First Nations and most recently served as Chair of her First Nation’s Elders Council.

    MIL OSI Canada News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan inaugurates the International Workshop on Use of Modern Technology in Survey-ReSurvey of Urban Land Records in New Delhi today

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Union Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan inaugurates the International Workshop on Use of Modern Technology in Survey-ReSurvey of Urban Land Records in New Delhi today

    Digitally updated and transparent land records facilitate optimization of the land resources and sharing of information with various agencies for assisting in policy and planning: Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan

    We will benefit from the presence of experts from around the world and the knowledge they present will help us apply modern technologies in land management: Union Minister

    The department has approved the National Geo-Spatial Knowledge Based Land Survey of Urban Habitations pilot project for creation of land records in urban areas: Shri Chouhan

    Posted On: 21 OCT 2024 5:19PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister for Rural Development Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan inaugurated the International Workshop on the use of “Modern Technologies in Survey-Resurvey for Urban Land Records” at Dr. Ambedkar International Centre in New Delhi today through video conferencing. Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, in his keynote address as the Chief Guest reaffirmed the commitment of Govt. of India in boosting digitization and maintenance of land records under the Digital India Land Records Modernization Programme (DILRMP). Highlighting the importance of the quality land records, Minister stated that digitally updated and transparent land records facilitate optimization of the land resources and sharing of information with various agencies for assisting in policy and planning. He elaborated that for a robust property record and tax administration, seamless access to land records is crucial to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of public service delivery through various schemes of the Centre and States. Minister emphasized the need for close coordination in the Central and State Governments and requested the Department of Land Resources and State Governments to work in close coordination.  

    He also discussed the steps taken by the Government of Madhya Pradesh in creating urban land records and informed that drone flying has been completed in 34 towns and Orthorectified Imagery (ORI) production is complete in 12 towns. He expressed his happiness on the pilot programme called the “National geospatial Knowledge-based land Survey of urban Habitations (NAKSHA)” of the Department of Land Resources with a view to create Land Records in Urban Areas. The Pilot project will be started in more than 100 cities/towns in all the States / UTs and it is expected to be completed in one year’s time. This will be followed by full-fledged survey which would cover the entire urban area in the country within a period of 5 years.   Shri Chouhan added that he is happy to report that aerial photography with 3D imagery is a powerful tool for urban planning. Considering the rainfall and flood situation at the local level, it is very important to develop better drainage and flood management. Aerial photography with accurate GPS coordinates will help in accelerating the speed of land survey, which will ultimately be useful in property tax assessment, better transport system, planning of drainage and flood management and preparation of master plans for our urban areas. 

    Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan said that he is happy to inform that his department is making tireless efforts in this direction.  He wanted to consult with experts from other countries on creation and reconciliation of land records and this two-day conference is an effort to discuss and understand global best practices in the use of new and emerging technologies in this regard. He is sure that the distinguished participants will put forth their views which will be discussed in detail during the sessions. He requests the representatives of the State Governments present here to actively participate in the discussions, because only with the cooperation of the States will we be able to integrate modern technologies in urban land administration and improve efficiency and transparency in land management systems. We will benefit from the presence of experts from around the world and the knowledge they present will help us apply modern technologies in land management.

    Union minister extended his best wishes for successful organization of this event and he hope that the information gained from the workshop will help the government in formulating policies to further strengthen the urban local bodies.

    Secretary, Department of Land Resources, Ministry of Rural Development, Shri Manoj Joshi said that this international workshop has been organized and along with this we have started a pilot program to conduct surveys in urban areas. For this, Survey of India is our technical partner so that drone flying can be done in all the cities. From the images obtained from drone flying, the revenue and urban departments of the states will prepare urban land records, master plans and drainage records of cities. The objective of this workshop is that foreign experts in land records can take advantage of the experts in software. States which have done the land record survey work. They will be able to share information with each other. We will be able to complete this work of land records in one year.

    In the inaugural session, Shri Kunal Satyarthi, Joint Secretary, Department of Land Resources, Govt. of India welcomed the participants and set the agenda of the workshop. Shri Abedelrazq Khalil, World Bank’s Practice Manager for Urban and Land, South Asia Infrastructure Department highlighted the importance of land records in Urban area. Shri Vivek Bharadwaj, Secretary, Ministry of Panchayati Raj, Govt. of India shared experience of SVAMITVA Scheme and stressed the urgent need for digital land records for urban area too.

    The first session of the Workshop on International Best Practices in Establishing and Maintaining Urban Digital Land Record was chaired by Shri Manoj Joshi, Secretary, Department of Land Resources and moderated by Mr. Klaus Deininger, Lead Economist, World Bank. This session had global participation from the land registration/survey departments of South Korea, Spain, Netherlands, France, United Kingdom, Australia, Japan, USA, Germany.  The importance of registration laws, land surveying, aerial mapping and the integration and implementation of GIS was discussed extensively, during this session.

    The workshop is a unique gathering of the stakeholders from the Ministries/Departments of the Government of India, Revenue and Urban Development Secretaries of 34 States/UTs, the Municipal Commissioners, international experts, Municipal officers /CEOs of around 120 Urban Local Bodies which are taking part in the Pilot programme National Geospatial Knowledge based Survey of habitations (NAKSHA) for Modernization of Urban Land records and industry &technology partners from India and abroad.

    Further, a Technology Exhibition on survey and resurvey featuring more than 30 Technology Companies from India as well as abroad was inaugurated by Shri Manoj Joshi, Secretary, Department of Land Resources, Govt. of India.

    *****

     

    SS

    (Release ID: 2066731) Visitor Counter : 53

    Read this release in: Hindi

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI: Mississauga, Region of Peel, Enwave and Lakeview Village break ground on ambitious district energy project, setting the stage for one of the most sustainable new waterfront communities in Canada

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MISSISSAUGA, Ontario, Oct. 21, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Today, the City of Mississauga, Lakeview Community Partners Limited (LCPL), Enwave Lakeview Corporation and the Region of Peel celebrated the groundbreaking of a new district energy system at Lakeview Village. Once fully operational, the Lakeview Village district energy system is positioned to be the first of its kind in Ontario and the largest in Canada.

    Unlike traditional heating and cooling systems, which are large contributors to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, district energy systems use a network of pipes to heat and cool an entire community from a centralized location. These systems allow for a combination of generation assets that work seamlessly together to improve efficiency, consume less energy, and reduce GHG emissions. They are also more reliable and resilient than traditional systems.

    To bring this new system to life, the City of Mississauga and Enwave have signed agreements allowing Enwave to build the necessary pipes and infrastructure on city land and construct a new building to operate the system. These agreements mark a major milestone in the Lakeview Village project and follow several years of collaboration.

    Left-right: Stephen Dasko (Ward 1 Councillor), Charles Sousa (MP Mississauga-Lakeshore), Brian Sutherland (Lakeview Community Partners), Gord Buck (Founder of ARGO), Carolyn Parrish (Mississauga Mayor), Carlyle Coutinho (CEO, Enwave Energy Corporation), Ehren Cory (CEO, Canada Infrastructure Bank), Alvin Tedjo (Ward 2 Councillor), Rudy Cuzzetto (MPP Mississauga-Lakeshore), and Silvio De Gasperis (Founder, President and CEO of TACC Group).

    Giving treated wastewater a second life

    The Region of Peel and Enwave are working to further decrease GHG emissions from the district energy system through a proposed plan to leverage treated wastewater, or effluent, from the nearby G.E. Booth Water Resource Recovery Facility as the main source of low carbon energy for the system. Using effluent to heat and cool Lakeview Village draws on an innovative energy source that would otherwise remain untapped.

    Once this transition happens, Lakeview Village’s residential units, offices and commercial spaces are expected to emit significantly fewer GHGs.

    The district energy system at Lakeview Village, alongside plans to leverage effluent, is instrumental in bringing the City of Mississauga’s Climate Change Action Plan and the Region of Peel’s Climate Change Master Plan to life.

    Building a new centre for operations and education

    The City of Mississauga and LCPL are also moving forward on the Site Development Plan and Building Permit applications to construct a new building that will house:

    • The district energy operations centre, which will be operated by Enwave.
    • A sewage pumping station, which will be operated by the Region of Peel.
    • An educational space to provide learning opportunities for Mississauga residents, visitors and the business community.

    Work is already underway, with the first crane installed onsite to support servicing and construction works for the new centre.

    Sustainable waterfront community

    Lakeview Village is a 177-acre site on Mississauga’s waterfront that was formerly the Lakeview Power Generating Station. Designed to be a mixed-use community, this sustainable and interconnected neighbourhood will feature 16,000 new homes, parks, trails, transit, recreational opportunities, event spaces, and commercial areas for work and shopping.

    Earlier this month, construction kicked off on the community’s first residential building with occupancy expected in early 2029.

    For more information about planning the Lakeview Village development, visit the City of Mississauga’s Lakeview Village webpage. To learn more about the community, visit mylakeviewvillage.com.

    Quotes:

    “Today’s announcement highlights our dedication to building mixed-use communities that are sustainable, and include a variety of housing options, jobs, parks and community spaces. Lakeview Village’s focus on innovative, low carbon solutions make it more than just a development project – it sets a new standard for sustainability. I’m proud to work with our partners on this transformative project that will shape the future of Mississauga for years to come.” Mayor Carolyn Parrish

    “This groundbreaking marks an exciting chapter in the evolution of Lakeview Village. Our vision has always been to make this community the most sustainable, innovative new development in the country, and this is a major step. The Enwave system within Lakeview Village is a leading example of how the joint priorities of sustainability and housing development can co-exist, supporting a better future for Ontario.” – Brian Sutherland, President, Lakeview Community Partners Limited

    “The groundbreaking of the district energy system at Lakeview Village is an exciting step toward the future of sustainable communities in Canada and beyond. This development is a complex undertaking, which will be the largest of its kind in North America with the integration of effluent, and would not be possible without the determination and collaboration demonstrated by all partners. Together, we are implementing big ideas and critical thinking to achieve the ambitious goals set for this project, and Enwave is proud to make this district energy system a reality.” Carlyle Coutinho, CEO of Enwave Energy Corporation

    “Today’s announcement signals Peel Region’s commitment to working with the City of Mississauga, Lakeview Community Partners Limited (LCPL), and Enwave Lakeview Corporation to leverage treated wastewater from the G.E. Booth Water Resource Recovery Facility as an innovative fuel source for the district energy system at Lakeview Village. Peel Region is a strong advocate for sustainability and committed to researching and implementing state-of-the-art treatment processes and technology at our facilities. We are always working to be a collaborative community partner, and providing this future fuel source for our neighbours at Lakeview Village demonstrates our environmental leadership.” – Chair Nando Iannicca, Peel Region 

    High-res images of the DE piping system and rendering of the centre can be found HERE.

    Media Contacts:

    City of Mississauga Media Relations
    media@mississauga.ca
    905-615-3200, ext. 5232
    TTY: 905-896-5151

    Amie Miles, Manager, Strategic Client Communications
    Amie.miles@peelregion.ca
    416-209-4317

    Enwave Energy Corporation
    Katie Good
    GoodPR
    416-540-2195
    katie@goodpr.ca

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/dc240327-bd37-414e-9670-213ee03188b2

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Trustco Reports Third Quarter 2024 Net Income of $12.9 Million; Skillful Application of Strong Fundamentals Produce Solid Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Executive Snapshot:

    • Average Loan portfolio continues to grow:
      • On average, total loans were up $127.0 million or 2.6% for the third quarter 2024 compared to the third quarter 2023
    • Continued solid financial results:
      • Key metrics for third quarter 2024:
        • Net income of $12.9 million versus $12.6 million for the second quarter 2024
        • Net interest income of $38.7 million, up from $37.8 million compared to the second quarter of 2024
        • Return on average equity (ROAE) of 7.74% versus 7.76% for the second quarter 2024
    • Capital continues to grow:
      • Consolidated equity to assets increased 6.2% to 10.95% as of September 30, 2024 from 10.31% as of September 30, 2023
      • Book value per share as of September 30, 2024 was $35.19, up from $34.46 compared to June 30, 2024

    GLENVILLE, N.Y., Oct. 21, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

    TrustCo Bank Corp NY (TrustCo, NASDAQ: TRST) today announced third quarter 2024 net income of $12.9 million or $0.68 diluted earnings per share, compared to net income of $14.7 million or $0.77 diluted earnings per share for the third quarter 2023; and net income of $37.6 million or $1.97 diluted earnings per share for the nine months ended September 30, 2024, compared to net income of $48.9 million or $2.57 diluted earnings per share for the nine months ended September 30, 2023. Average loans increased $127.0 million or 2.6% for the third quarter 2024 over the same period in 2023.   TrustCo was able to increase the balances of home equity lines of credit (HECLs) outstanding through an aggressive campaign to encourage existing customers to utilize their HECLs in place of the higher rates on other products.  The objective was to meet customer needs and encourage increased utilization through existing HECLs.

    Overview

    Chairman, President, and CEO, Robert J. McCormick said “Hard, consistent work on the fundamentals of banking once again have served the Trustco Bank team well and enabled us to post strong results under challenging circumstances. Our bankers posted one modest success after another – which accumulated into solid performance. We continued to hold the line on demand accounts and capitalized on strong customer relationships which enabled us to direct the flow into competitively-priced CDs, rather than to non-bank investment products. Not having to purchase expensive deposits or pay excessive rates, helped keep interest expense down, contributing to increased net interest income. We have continued to sell home equity products at favorable rates where origination of purchase mortgages lagged due to lack of sales volume. We booked these new loans at higher interest rates, also boosting net interest margin. Once again, loans reached a new all-time high. All of these efforts by our team resulted in net income of $12.9 million for the quarter.”

    Details

    Average loans were up $127.0 million or 2.6% in the third quarter 2024 over the same period in 2023. Average residential loans and home equity lines of credit, our primary lending focus, were up $50.4 million, or 1.2%, and $60.0 million, or 18.7%, respectively, in the third quarter 2024 over the same period in 2023. Average commercial loans also increased $18.1 million, or 6.9%, in the third quarter 2024 over the same period in 2023. Average deposits were up $15.3 million, or 0.3% for the third quarter 2024 over the same period in 2023. We believe the increase in time deposits compared to the prior year continues to reflect the desire of customers to have additional funds in the safety and security offered by TrustCo’s long history of conservative banking, while earning a competitive interest rate. As we move forward, the objective is to encourage customers to retain these additional funds in the expanded product offerings of Trustco Bank (the “Bank”) through aggressive marketing and product differentiation.

    Net interest income was $38.7 million for the third quarter 2024, an increase of $883 thousand, or 2.3%, compared to the prior quarter, driven by loan growth at higher interest rates and lower cost of deposits, partially offset by lower investment earnings and a decrease in interest on federal funds sold and other short-term investments. The net interest margin for the third quarter 2024 was 2.61%, up 8 basis points from 2.53% in the second quarter of 2024. The yield on interest earnings assets increased to 4.11%, up 5 basis points from 4.06% in the second quarter of 2024. The cost of interest bearing liabilities decreased to 1.94% in the third quarter 2024 from 1.97% in the second quarter 2024. The Bank has seen success in retaining deposits while lowering the rates on time deposits, and still being competitive in the markets it serves. The Federal Reserve’s decision regarding whether to cut or hold rates in upcoming meetings will have an effect on the Bank’s ability to continue to manage deposit costs. Further reductions should help margin expansion in future quarters. Non-interest expense decreased $259 thousand over the prior quarter as a result of the Bank’s ongoing efforts to control expenses.

    Asset quality remains strong and has been consistent over the past twelve months. The Company recorded a provision for credit losses of $500 thousand in the third quarter of 2024, which is the result of a provision for credit losses on loans of $400 thousand, and provision for credit losses on unfunded commitments of $100 thousand. The ratio of allowance for credit losses on loans to total loans was 0.99% and 0.95% as of September 30, 2024 and 2023, respectively. The allowance for credit losses on loans was $50.0 million at September 30, 2024, compared to $47.2 million at September 30, 2023. Nonperforming loans (NPLs) were $19.4 million at September 30, 2024, compared to $17.9 million at September 30, 2023. NPLs were 0.38% and 0.36% of total loans at September 30, 2024 and 2023, respectively. The coverage ratio, or allowance for credit losses on loans to NPLs, was 256.9% at September 30, 2024, compared to 264.2% at September 30, 2023. Nonperforming assets (NPAs) were $21.9 million at September 30, 2024, compared to $19.1 million at September 30, 2023.  

    At September 30, 2024, our equity to asset ratio was 10.95%, compared to 10.31% at September 30, 2023. Book value per share at September 30, 2024 was $35.19, up 7.3% compared to $32.80 a year earlier.

    A conference call to discuss third quarter 2024 results will be held at 9:00 a.m. Eastern Time on October 22, 2024. Those wishing to participate in the call may dial toll-free for the United States at 1-833-470-1428, and for Canada at 1-833-950-0062, Access code 034120. A replay of the call will be available for thirty days by dialing toll-free for the United States at 1-866-813-9403, Access code 285814.   The call will also be audio webcast at https://events.q4inc.com/attendee/854762065, and will be available for one year.

    About TrustCo Bank Corp NY

    TrustCo Bank Corp NY is a $6.1 billion savings and loan holding company and through its subsidiary, Trustco Bank, operated 138 offices in New York, New Jersey, Vermont, Massachusetts, and Florida at September 30, 2024.

    In addition, the Bank’s Wealth Management Department offers a full range of investment services, retirement planning and trust and estate administration services. The common shares of TrustCo are traded on the NASDAQ Global Select Market under the symbol TRST.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    All statements in this news release that are not historical are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements can be identified by words such as “anticipate,” “intend,” “plan,” “goal,” “seek,” “believe,” “project,” “estimate,” “expect,” “strategy,” “future,” “likely,” “may,” “should,” “will” and similar references to future development, results or periods. Examples of forward-looking statements include, among others, statements we make regarding our expectations for our future performance, including our expectations regarding the effects of the economic environment on our financial results, our ability to retain customers and the amount of customers’ business, including deposit balances, with us, the impact of the Federal Reserve’s actions regarding interest rates, and the growth of loans and deposits throughout our branch network. Forward-looking statements are based on management’s current expectations as well as certain assumptions and estimates made by, and information available to, management at the time the statements are made. Such forward-looking statements are subject to factors and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially for TrustCo from the views, beliefs and projections expressed in such statements, and many of the risks and uncertainties are heightened by or may, in the future, be heightened by volatility in financial markets and macroeconomic or geopolitical concerns related to inflation, continued elevated interest rates and ongoing armed conflicts (including the Russia/Ukraine conflict and the conflict in Israel and surrounding areas). TrustCo wishes to caution readers not to place undue reliance on any such forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date made. The following important factors, among others, in some cases have affected and in the future could affect TrustCo’s actual results and could cause TrustCo’s actual financial performance to differ materially from that expressed in any forward-looking statement: future changes in interest rates; ongoing inflationary pressures and continued elevated prices; exposure to credit risk in our lending activities; our increasing commercial loan portfolio; the sufficiency of our allowance for credit losses on loans to cover actual loan losses; our ability to meet the cash flow requirements of our depositors or borrowers or meet our operating cash needs to fund corporate expansion and other activities; claims and litigation pertaining to fiduciary responsibility and lender liability; our dependency upon the services of the management team; our disclosure controls and procedures’ ability to prevent or detect errors or acts of fraud; the adequacy of our business continuity and disaster recovery plans; the effectiveness of our risk management framework; the impact of any expansion by us into new lines of business or new products and services; the impact of severe weather events and climate change on us and the communities we serve, including societal responses to climate change; increasing scrutiny and evolving expectations from customers, regulators, investors, and other stakeholders with respect to our environmental, social and governance practices; the chance of a prolonged economic downturn, especially one affecting our geographic market area; instability in global economic conditions and geopolitical matters, as well as volatility in financial markets; the soundness of other financial institutions; U.S. government shutdowns, credit rating downgrades, or failure to increase the debt ceiling; fluctuations in the trust wealth management fees we receive as a result of investment performance; the impact of regulatory capital rules on our growth; changes in laws and regulations, including changes in cybersecurity or privacy regulations; restrictions on data collection and use; our compliance with the USA PATRIOT Act, Bank Secrecy Act, and other laws and regulations that could result in material fines or sanctions; changes in tax laws; limitations on our ability to pay dividends; TrustCo Realty Corp.’s ability to qualify as a real estate investment trust; changes in accounting standards; competition within our market areas; consumers and businesses’ use of non-banks to complete financial transactions; our reliance on third-party service providers; the impact of data breaches and cyber-attacks; the impact of a failure in or breach of our operational or security systems or infrastructure, or those of third parties; the impact of an unauthorized disclosure of sensitive or confidential client or customer information; the impact of interruptions in the effective operation of our computer systems; the impact of anti-takeover provisions in our organizational documents; the impact of the manner in which we allocate capital; and other risks and uncertainties under the heading “Risk Factors” in our most recent annual report on Form 10-K and, if any, in our subsequent quarterly reports on Form 10-Q or other securities filings. The forward-looking statements contained in this news release represent TrustCo management’s judgment as of the date of this news release. TrustCo disclaims, however, any intent or obligation to update forward-looking statements, either as a result of future developments, new information or otherwise, except as may be required by law.

     
    TRUSTCO BANK CORP NY
    GLENVILLE, NY
             
    FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
             
    (dollars in thousands, except per share data)
    (Unaudited)
        Three months ended        
        9/30/2024   6/30/2024   9/30/2023        
    Summary of operations                    
    Net interest income   $ 38,671     $ 37,788     $ 42,221              
    Provision for credit losses     500       500       100          
    Net gains on equity securities     23       1,360                
    Noninterest income, excluding net gains on equity securities     4,908       4,291       4,574          
    Noninterest expense     26,200       26,459       27,460          
    Net income     12,875       12,551       14,680          
                         
    Per share                    
    Net income per share:                    
    – Basic   $ 0.68     $ 0.66     $ 0.77          
    – Diluted     0.68       0.66       0.77          
    Cash dividends     0.36       0.36       0.36          
    Book value at period end     35.19       34.46       32.80              
    Market price at period end     33.07       28.77       27.29          
                         
    At period end                    
    Full time equivalent employees     735       753       764          
    Full service banking offices     138       138       143          
                         
    Performance ratios                    
    Return on average assets     0.84   %   0.82   %   0.96   %      
    Return on average equity     7.74       7.76       9.32          
    Efficiency ratio (1)     59.65       62.84       58.33          
    Net interest spread     2.17       2.09       2.55          
    Net interest margin     2.61       2.53       2.85          
    Dividend payout ratio     53.16       54.57       46.65              
                             
    Capital ratios at period end                        
    Consolidated equity to assets     10.95   %   10.73   %   10.31   %          
    Consolidated tangible equity to tangible assets (2)     10.94   %   10.72   %   10.30   %      
                         
    Asset quality analysis at period end                    
    Nonperforming loans to total loans     0.38   %   0.38   %   0.36   %      
    Nonperforming assets to total assets     0.36       0.35       0.31          
    Allowance for credit losses on loans to total loans     0.99       0.99       0.95          
    Coverage ratio (3)   2.6x   2.6x   2.6x        
                         
                         
    (1) Non-GAAP measure; calculated as noninterest expense (excluding ORE expense) divided by taxable equivalent net interest income plus noninterest income (excluding net gains on equity securities).
    See Non-GAAP Financial Measures Reconciliation.
    (2) Non-GAAP measure; calculated as total shareholders’ equity less $553 of intangible assets divided by total assets less $553 of intangible assets. See Non-GAAP Financial Measures Reconciliation.
    (3) Calculated as allowance for credit losses on loans divided by total nonperforming loans.
                         
                         
    FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS, Continued
               
    (dollars in thousands, except per share data)
    (Unaudited)
        Nine Months Ended            
        09/30/24   09/30/23            
    Summary of operations                    
    Net interest income $   113,037       133,238              
    Provision (Credit) for credit losses     1,600       (100 )            
    Net gains on equity securities     1,383                    
    Noninterest income, excluding net gains on equity securities     14,042       13,841              
    Noninterest expense     77,562       82,466              
    Net income     37,552       48,798              
                         
    Per share                    
    Net income per share:                    
    – Basic $   1.97       2.57              
    – Diluted     1.97       2.57              
    Cash dividends     1.08       1.08              
    Book value at period end     35.19       32.80              
    Market price at period end     33.07       27.29              
                         
    Performance ratios                    
    Return on average assets     0.82   %   1.08              
    Return on average equity     7.68       10.57                  
    Efficiency ratio (1)     60.80       55.70                  
    Net interest spread     2.08       2.78                  
    Net interest margin     2.52       3.01            
    Dividend payout ratio     54.70       42.11                  
                             
    (1) Non-GAAP measure; calculated as noninterest expense (excluding ORE expense) divided by taxable equivalent net interest income plus noninterest income (excluding net gains on equity securities).
    See Non-GAAP Financial Measures Reconciliation.
                         
                         
    CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
                         
    (dollars in thousands, except per share data)
    (Unaudited)
        Three months ended
        9/30/2024   6/30/2024   3/31/2024   12/31/2023   9/30/2023
    Interest and dividend income:                    
    Interest and fees on loans   $ 52,112     $ 50,660     $ 49,804     $ 49,201     $ 47,921  
    Interest and dividends on securities available for sale:                    
    U. S. government sponsored enterprises     718       909       906       750       672  
    State and political subdivisions           1             1        
    Mortgage-backed securities and collateralized mortgage                    
    obligations – residential     1,397       1,451       1,494       1,533       1,485  
    Corporate bonds     361       362       476       477       473  
    Small Business Administration – guaranteed                    
    participation securities     90       94       100       102       107  
    Other securities     2       2       3       3       2  
    Total interest and dividends on securities available for sale     2,568       2,819       2,979       2,866       2,739  
                         
    Interest on held to maturity securities:                    
    Mortgage-backed securities and collateralized mortgage                    
    obligations – residential     62       65       68       70       73  
    Total interest on held to maturity securities     62       65       68       70       73  
                         
    Federal Home Loan Bank stock     153       147       152       149       131  
                         
    Interest on federal funds sold and other short-term investments     6,174       6,894       6,750       6,354       6,688  
    Total interest income     61,069       60,585       59,753       58,640       57,552  
                         
    Interest expense:                    
    Interest on deposits:                    
    Interest-bearing checking     311       288       240       165       102  
    Savings     770       675       712       707       639  
    Money market deposit accounts     2,154       2,228       2,342       2,500       2,384  
    Time deposits     18,969       19,400       19,677       16,460       11,962  
    Interest on short-term borrowings     194       206       204       201       244  
    Total interest expense     22,398       22,797       23,175       20,033       15,331  
                         
    Net interest income     38,671       37,788       36,578       38,607       42,221  
                         
    Less: Provision for credit losses     500       500       600       1,350       100  
    Net interest income after provision for credit losses     38,171       37,288       35,978       37,257       42,121  
                         
    Noninterest income:                    
    Trustco Financial Services income     2,044       1,609       1,816       1,612       1,627  
    Fees for services to customers     2,482       2,399       2,745       2,563       2,590  
    Net gains on equity securities     23       1,360                    
    Other     382       283       282       299       357  
    Total noninterest income     4,931       5,651       4,843       4,474       4,574  
                         
    Noninterest expenses:                    
    Salaries and employee benefits     12,134       12,520       11,427       12,444       12,393  
    Net occupancy expense     4,271       4,375       4,611       4,209       4,358  
    Equipment expense     1,757       1,990       1,738       1,852       1,923  
    Professional services     1,863       1,570       1,460       1,561       1,717  
    Outsourced services     2,551       2,755       2,501       2,532       2,720  
    Advertising expense     339       466       408       384       586  
    FDIC and other insurance     1,112       797       1,094       1,085       1,078  
    Other real estate expense (income), net     204       16       74       (12 )     163  
    Other     1,969       1,970       1,590       4,776       2,522  
    Total noninterest expenses     26,200       26,459       24,903       28,831       27,460  
                         
    Income before taxes     16,902       16,480       15,918       12,900       19,235  
    Income taxes     4,027       3,929       3,792       3,052       4,555  
                         
    Net income   $ 12,875     $ 12,551     $ 12,126     $ 9,848     $ 14,680  
                         
    Net income per common share:                    
    – Basic   $ 0.68     $ 0.66     $ 0.64     $ 0.52     $ 0.77  
                         
    – Diluted     0.68       0.66       0.64       0.52       0.77  
                         
    Average basic shares (in thousands)     19,010       19,022       19,024       19,024       19,024  
    Average diluted shares (in thousands)     19,036       19,033       19,032       19,026       19,024  
                         
                         
                         
    CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME, Continued
               
    (dollars in thousands, except per share data)
    (Unaudited)
        Nine Months Ended            
        09/30/24   09/30/23            
    Interest and dividend income:                        
    Interest and fees on loans $   152,576       138,255                  
    Interest and dividends on securities available for sale:                        
    U. S. government sponsored enterprises     2,533       2,055                  
    State and political subdivisions     1       1                  
    Mortgage-backed securities and collateralized mortgage                        
    obligations – residential     4,342       4,613                  
    Corporate bonds     1,199       1,510                  
    Small Business Administration – guaranteed                        
    participation securities     284       335                  
    Other securities     7       7                  
    Total interest and dividends on securities available for sale     8,366       8,521                  
                         
    Interest on held to maturity securities:                    
    Mortgage-backed securities-residential     195       226                  
    Total interest on held to maturity securities     195       226                  
                         
    Federal Home Loan Bank stock     452       351                  
                         
    Interest on federal funds sold and other short-term investments     19,818       20,213                  
    Total interest income     181,407       167,566                  
                         
    Interest expense:                    
    Interest on deposits:                    
    Interest-bearing checking     839       217                  
    Savings     2,157       1,824                  
    Money market deposit accounts     6,724       4,954                  
    Time deposits     58,046       26,525                  
    Interest on short-term borrowings     604       808                  
    Total interest expense     68,370       34,328                  
                         
    Net interest income     113,037       133,238                  
                         
    Less: Provision (Credit) for credit losses     1,600       (100 )                
    Net interest income after provision (credit) for credit losses     111,437       133,338                  
                         
    Noninterest income:                    
    Trustco Financial Services income     5,469       4,813                  
    Fees for services to customers     7,626       8,085                  
    Net gains on equity securities     1,383                        
    Other     947       943                  
    Total noninterest income     15,425       13,841                  
                         
    Noninterest expenses:                    
    Salaries and employee benefits     36,081       38,798                  
    Net occupancy expense     13,257       13,218                  
    Equipment expense     5,485       5,758                  
    Professional services     4,893       4,684                  
    Outsourced services     7,807       7,507                  
    Advertising expense     1,213       1,494                  
    FDIC and other insurance     3,003       3,215                  
    Other real estate expense, net     294       536                  
    Other     5,529       7,256                  
    Total noninterest expenses     77,562       82,466                  
                         
    Income before taxes     49,300       64,713                  
    Income taxes     11,748       15,915                  
                         
    Net income $   37,552       48,798                      
                             
    Net income per common share:                    
    – Basic $   1.97       2.57              
                         
    – Diluted     1.97       2.57              
                         
    Average basic shares (in thousands)     19,019       19,024              
    Average diluted shares (in thousands)     19,034       19,024              
                         
                         
                         
                         
    CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION
     
    (dollars in thousands)
    (Unaudited)
        9/30/2024   6/30/2024   3/31/2024   12/31/2023   9/30/2023
    ASSETS:                    
                         
    Cash and due from banks   $ 49,659     $ 42,193     $ 44,868     $ 49,274     $ 45,940  
    Federal funds sold and other short term investments     473,306       493,920       564,815       528,730       461,321  
    Total cash and cash equivalents     522,965       536,113       609,683       578,004       507,261  
                       
    Securities available for sale:                  
    U. S. government sponsored enterprises     90,588       106,796       128,854       118,668       121,474  
    States and political subdivisions     26       26       26       26       34  
    Mortgage-backed securities and collateralized mortgage                  
    obligations – residential     222,841       218,311       227,078       237,677       233,719  
    Small Business Administration – guaranteed                    
    participation securities     15,171       15,592       16,260       17,186       17,316  
    Corporate bonds     54,327       53,764       53,341       78,052       76,935  
    Other securities     701       688       682       680       657  
    Total securities available for sale     383,654       395,177       426,241       452,289       450,135  
                         
    Held to maturity securities:                    
    Mortgage-backed securities and collateralized mortgage                    
    obligations-residential     5,636       5,921       6,206       6,458       6,724  
    Total held to maturity securities     5,636       5,921       6,206       6,458       6,724  
                         
    Federal Reserve Bank and Federal Home Loan Bank stock     6,507       6,507       6,203       6,203       6,203  
                       
    Loans:                  
    Commercial     280,261       282,441       279,092       273,515       268,642  
    Residential mortgage loans     4,382,674       4,370,640       4,354,369       4,365,063       4,343,006  
    Home equity line of credit     393,418       370,063       355,879       347,415       332,028  
    Installment loans     14,503       15,168       16,166       16,886       16,605  
    Loans, net of deferred net costs     5,070,856       5,038,312       5,005,506       5,002,879       4,960,281  
                       
    Less: Allowance for credit losses on loans     49,950       49,772       49,220       48,578       47,226  
    Net loans     5,020,906       4,988,540       4,956,286       4,954,301       4,913,055  
                         
    Bank premises and equipment, net     33,324       33,466       33,423       34,007       32,135  
    Operating lease right-of-use assets     37,958       38,376       39,647       40,542       41,475  
    Other assets     98,730       102,544       101,881       96,387       97,310  
                       
    Total assets   $ 6,109,680     $ 6,106,644     $ 6,179,570     $ 6,168,191     $ 6,054,298  
                       
    LIABILITIES:                  
    Deposits:                  
    Demand   $ 753,878     $ 745,227     $ 742,997     $ 754,532     $ 773,293  
    Interest-bearing checking     988,527       1,029,606       1,020,136       1,015,213       1,033,898  
    Savings accounts     1,092,038       1,144,427       1,155,517       1,179,241       1,235,658  
    Money market deposit accounts     477,113       517,445       532,611       565,767       610,012  
    Time deposits     1,952,635       1,840,262       1,903,908       1,836,024       1,581,504  
    Total deposits     5,264,191       5,276,967       5,355,169       5,350,777       5,234,365  
                       
    Short-term borrowings     91,450       89,720       94,374       88,990       103,110  
    Operating lease liabilities     41,469       42,026       43,438       44,471       45,418  
    Accrued expenses and other liabilities     43,549       42,763       37,399       38,668       47,479  
                       
    Total liabilities     5,440,659       5,451,476       5,530,380       5,522,906       5,430,372  
                       
    SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY:                  
    Capital stock     20,058       20,058       20,058       20,058       20,058  
    Surplus     257,644       257,490       257,335       257,181       257,078  
    Undivided profits     442,079       436,048       430,346       425,069       422,082  
    Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax     (6,600 )     (14,268 )     (14,763 )     (13,237 )     (31,506 )
    Treasury stock at cost     (44,160 )     (44,160 )     (43,786 )     (43,786 )     (43,786 )
                       
    Total shareholders’ equity     669,021       655,168       649,190       645,285       623,926  
                         
    Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity   $ 6,109,680     $ 6,106,644     $ 6,179,570     $ 6,168,191     $ 6,054,298  
                         
    Outstanding shares (in thousands)     19,010       19,010       19,024       19,024       19,024  
                         
     
    NONPERFORMING ASSETS
                 
    (dollars in thousands)
    (Unaudited)
        9/30/2024 6/30/2024 3/31/2024 12/31/2023 9/30/2023
    Nonperforming Assets            
                 
    New York and other states*            
    Loans in nonaccrual status:            
    Commercial   $ 466   $ 741   $ 532   $ 536   $ 540  
    Real estate mortgage – 1 to 4 family     15,320     14,992     14,359     14,375     14,633  
    Installment     163     131     149     151     93  
    Total non-accrual loans     15,949     15,864     15,040     15,062     15,266  
    Other nonperforming real estate mortgages – 1 to 4 family                 3     5  
    Total nonperforming loans     15,949     15,864     15,040     15,065     15,271  
    Other real estate owned     2,503     2,334     2,334     194     1,185  
    Total nonperforming assets   $ 18,452   $ 18,198   $ 17,374   $ 15,259   $ 16,456  
                 
    Florida            
    Loans in nonaccrual status:            
    Commercial   $ 314   $ 314   $ 314   $ 314   $ 314  
    Real estate mortgage – 1 to 4 family     3,176     2,985     2,921     2,272     2,228  
    Installment     5     22         15     65  
    Total non-accrual loans     3,495     3,321     3,235     2,601     2,607  
    Other nonperforming real estate mortgages – 1 to 4 family                      
    Total nonperforming loans     3,495     3,321     3,235     2,601     2,607  
    Other real estate owned                      
    Total nonperforming assets   $ 3,495   $ 3,321   $ 3,235   $ 2,601   $ 2,607  
                 
    Total            
    Loans in nonaccrual status:            
    Commercial   $ 780   $ 1,055   $ 846   $ 850   $ 854  
    Real estate mortgage – 1 to 4 family     18,496     17,977     17,280     16,647     16,861  
    Installment     168     153     149     166     158  
    Total non-accrual loans     19,444     19,185     18,275     17,663     17,873  
    Other nonperforming real estate mortgages – 1 to 4 family                 3     5  
    Total nonperforming loans     19,444     19,185     18,275     17,666     17,878  
    Other real estate owned     2,503     2,334     2,334     194     1,185  
    Total nonperforming assets   $ 21,947   $ 21,519   $ 20,609   $ 17,860   $ 19,063  
                 
                 
    Quarterly Net (Recoveries) Chargeoffs            
                 
    New York and other states*            
    Commercial   $ 65   $   $   $   $  
    Real estate mortgage – 1 to 4 family     104     (74 )   (78 )   219     (26 )
    Installment     11     (2 )   36     23     14  
    Total net (recoveries) chargeoffs   $ 180   $ (76 ) $ (42 ) $ 242   $ (12 )
                 
    Florida            
    Commercial   $   $   $   $   $  
    Real estate mortgage – 1 to 4 family         17              
    Installment     42     7         6      
    Total net (recoveries) chargeoffs   $ 42   $ 24   $   $ 6   $  
                 
    Total            
    Commercial   $ 65   $   $   $   $  
    Real estate mortgage – 1 to 4 family     104     (57 )   (78 )   219     (26 )
    Installment     53     5     36     29     14  
    Total net (recoveries) chargeoffs   $ 222   $ (52 ) $ (42 ) $ 248   $ (12 )
                 
                 
    Asset Quality Ratios            
                 
    Total nonperforming loans (1)   $ 19,444   $ 19,185   $ 18,275   $ 17,666   $ 17,878  
    Total nonperforming assets (1)     21,947     21,519     20,609     17,860     19,063  
    Total net (recoveries) chargeoffs (2)     222     (52 )   (42 )   248     (12 )
                 
    Allowance for credit losses on loans (1)     49,950     49,772     49,220     48,578     47,226  
                 
    Nonperforming loans to total loans     0.38 %   0.38 %   0.37 %   0.35 %   0.36 %
    Nonperforming assets to total assets     0.36 %   0.35 %   0.33 %   0.29 %   0.31 %
    Allowance for credit losses on loans to total loans     0.99 %   0.99 %   0.98 %   0.97 %   0.95 %
    Coverage ratio (1)     256.9 %   259.4 %   269.3 %   275.0 %   264.2 %
    Annualized net (recoveries) chargeoffs to average loans (2)     0.02 %   0.00 %   0.00 %   0.02 %   0.00 %
    Allowance for credit losses on loans to annualized net chargeoffs (2)   56.3x N/A N/A 49.0x N/A
     
    * Includes New York, New Jersey, Vermont and Massachusetts.
    (1) At period-end
    (2) For the three-month period ended
                 
     
    DISTRIBUTION OF ASSETS, LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY –
    INTEREST RATES AND INTEREST DIFFERENTIAL
     
    (dollars in thousands)                        
    (Unaudited)   Three months ended     Three months ended  
        September 30, 2024     September 30, 2023  
        Average   Interest Average     Average   Interest Average  
        Balance     Rate     Balance     Rate  
    Assets                        
                             
    Securities available for sale:                        
    U. S. government sponsored enterprises   $ 95,073     $ 718 3.02 %   $ 119,406     $ 672 2.25 %
    Mortgage backed securities and collateralized mortgage                        
    obligations – residential     241,792       1,397 2.29       269,535       1,485 2.19  
    State and political subdivisions     26       6.75       34       6.74  
    Corporate bonds     55,041       361 2.63       80,331       473 2.36  
    Small Business Administration – guaranteed                        
    participation securities     16,663       90 2.15       19,801       107 2.15  
    Other     701       2 1.14       686       2 1.17  
                             
    Total securities available for sale     409,296       2,568 2.51       489,793       2,739 2.24  
                             
    Federal funds sold and other short-term Investments     465,922       6,174 5.27       494,597       6,688 5.37  
                             
    Held to maturity securities:                        
    Mortgage backed securities and collateralized mortgage                        
    obligations – residential     5,779       62 4.29       6,877       73 4.22  
                             
    Total held to maturity securities     5,779       62 4.29       6,877       73 4.22  
                             
    Federal Home Loan Bank stock     6,507       153 9.41       6,203       131 8.45  
                             
    Commercial loans     279,199       3,807 5.45       261,061       3,398 5.21  
    Residential mortgage loans     4,375,641       41,811 3.82       4,325,219       39,321 3.64  
    Home equity lines of credit     380,422       6,245 6.53       320,446       4,946 6.12  
    Installment loans     14,443       249 6.87       15,959       256 6.37  
                             
    Loans, net of unearned income     5,049,705       52,112 4.12       4,922,685       47,921 3.89  
                             
    Total interest earning assets     5,937,209     $ 61,069 4.11       5,920,155     $ 57,552 3.88  
                             
    Allowance for credit losses on loans     (49,973 )             (47,077 )        
    Cash & non-interest earning assets     187,166               172,523          
                             
                             
    Total assets   $ 6,074,402             $ 6,045,601          
                             
                             
    Liabilities and shareholders’ equity                        
                             
    Deposits:                        
    Interest bearing checking accounts   $ 1,000,333     $ 311 0.12 %   $ 1,050,313     $ 102 0.04 %
    Money market accounts     499,408       2,154 1.72       625,031       2,384 1.51  
    Savings     1,122,673       770 0.27       1,282,641       639 0.20  
    Time deposits     1,880,021       18,969 4.01       1,494,402       11,962 3.18  
                             
    Total interest bearing deposits     4,502,435       22,204 1.96       4,452,387       15,087 1.34  
    Short-term borrowings     87,677       194 0.88       110,018       244 0.88  
                             
    Total interest bearing liabilities     4,590,112     $ 22,398 1.94       4,562,405     $ 15,331 1.33  
                             
    Demand deposits     742,164               776,885          
    Other liabilities     80,502               81,411          
    Shareholders’ equity     661,624               624,900          
                             
    Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity   $ 6,074,402             $ 6,045,601          
                             
    Net interest income, GAAP and non-GAAP tax equivalent (1)       $ 38,671           $ 42,221    
                             
    Net interest spread, GAAP and non-GAAP tax equivalent (1)         2.17 %         2.55 %
                             
                             
    Net interest margin (net interest income to                        
    total interest earning assets), GAAP and non-GAAP tax equivalent (1)       2.61 %         2.85 %
                             
    Tax equivalent adjustment (1)                        
                             
                             
    Net interest income       $ 38,671           $ 42,221    
                             
    (1) Tax equivalent adjustment to a measure results in a non-GAAP financial measure. See Non-GAAP Financial Measures Reconciliation.
                             
                             
                             
    DISTRIBUTION OF ASSETS, LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY –
    INTEREST RATES AND INTEREST DIFFERENTIAL, Continued
                             
    (dollars in thousands)                        
    (Unaudited)   Nine Months Ended     Nine Months Ended  
        September 30, 2024     September 30, 2023  
        Average   Interest Average     Average   Interest Average  
        Balance     Rate     Balance     Rate  
    Assets                        
                             
    Securities available for sale:                        
    U. S. government sponsored enterprises $   111,570       2,533 3.03 % $   120,243       2,055 2.28 %
    Mortgage backed securities and collateralized mortgage                        
    obligations – residential     250,343       4,342 2.31       278,252       4,613 2.21  
    State and political subdivisions     26       1 6.80       34       1 6.74  
    Corporate bonds     61,221       1,199 2.61       83,732       1,510 2.41  
    Small Business Administration – guaranteed                        
    participation securities     17,438       284 2.17       20,876       335 2.14  
    Other     697       7 1.34       686       7 1.02  
                             
    Total securities available for sale     441,295       8,366 2.53       503,823       8,521 1.69  
                             
    Federal funds sold and other short-term Investments     489,934       19,818 5.40       540,570       20,213 5.00  
                             
    Held to maturity securities:                        
    Mortgage backed securities and collateralized mortgage                        
    obligations – residential     6,053       195 4.29       7,205       226 4.18  
                             
    Total held to maturity securities     6,053       195 4.29       7,205       226 4.18  
                             
    Federal Home Loan Bank stock     6,350       452 9.49       5,957       351 5.89  
                             
    Commercial loans     278,981       11,232 5.37       249,738       9,716 5.19  
    Residential mortgage loans     4,364,821       123,046 3.76       4,269,494       114,227 3.57  
    Home equity lines of credit     365,932       17,522 6.40       305,075       13,598 5.96  
    Installment loans     15,319       776 6.76       15,015       714 6.35  
                             
    Loans, net of unearned income     5,025,053       152,576 4.05       4,839,322       138,255 3.81  
                             
    Total interest earning assets     5,968,685       181,407 4.05       5,896,877       167,566 3.79  
                             
    Allowance for credit losses on loans     (49,419 )             (46,812 )        
    Cash & non-interest earning assets     187,963               173,521          
                             
                             
    Total assets $   6,107,229           $   6,023,586          
                             
                             
    Liabilities and shareholders’ equity                        
                             
    Deposits:                        
    Interest bearing checking accounts $   999,839       839 0.11 % $   1,088,859       217 0.03 %
    Money market accounts     522,636       6,724 1.72       613,119       4,954 1.08  
    Savings     1,142,313       2,157 0.25       1,363,052       1,824 0.18  
    Time deposits     1,881,027       58,046 4.12       1,343,762       26,525 2.64  
                             
    Total interest bearing deposits     4,545,815       67,766 1.99       4,408,792       33,520 1.02  
    Short-term borrowings     91,551       604 0.88       121,911       808 0.89  
                             
    Total interest bearing liabilities     4,637,366       68,370 1.97       4,530,703       34,328 1.01  
                             
    Demand deposits     734,604               793,890          
    Other liabilities     82,233               81,771          
    Shareholders’ equity     653,026               617,224          
                             
    Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity $   6,107,229           $   6,023,588          
                             
    Net interest income, GAAP and non-GAAP tax equivalent (1)         113,037             133,238    
                             
    Net interest spread, GAAP and non-GAAP tax equivalent (1)         2.08 %         2.78 %
                             
                             
    Net interest margin (net interest income to                        
    total interest earning assets), GAAP and non-GAAP tax equivalent (1)       2.52 %         3.01 %
                             
    Tax equivalent adjustment (1)                        
                             
                             
    Net interest income         113,037             133,238    
                             
    (1) Tax equivalent adjustment to a measure results in a non-GAAP financial measure. See Non-GAAP Financial Measures Reconciliation.
                             

    Non-GAAP Financial Measures Reconciliation

    Tangible book value per share is a non-GAAP financial measure derived from GAAP-based amounts. We calculate tangible book value by excluding the balance of intangible assets from total shareholders’ equity divided by shares outstanding. We believe that this is consistent with the treatment by bank regulatory agencies, which exclude intangible assets from the calculation of risk-based capital ratios. Additionally, we believe that this measure is important to many investors in the marketplace who are interested in relative changes from period to period in equity exclusive of changes in intangible assets.

    Tangible equity as a percentage of tangible assets at period end is a non-GAAP financial measure derived from GAAP-based amounts. We calculate tangible equity and tangible assets by excluding the balance of intangible assets from total shareholders’ equity and total assets, respectively. We calculate tangible equity as a percentage of tangible assets at period end by dividing tangible equity by tangible assets at period end. We believe that this is consistent with the treatment by bank regulatory agencies, which exclude intangible assets from the calculation of risk-based capital ratios. Additionally, we believe that this measure is important to many investors in the marketplace who are interested in relative changes from period to period in equity and total assets, each exclusive of changes in intangible assets.

    Net interest income is commonly presented on a taxable equivalent basis. That is, to the extent that some component of the institution’s net interest income will be exempt from taxation (e.g., was received by the institution as a result of its holdings of state or municipal obligations), an amount equal to the tax benefit derived from that component is added back to the net interest income total. Management considers this adjustment helpful to investors in comparing one financial institution’s net interest income (pre- tax) to that of another institution, as each will have a different proportion of tax-exempt items in their portfolios. Moreover, net interest income is itself a component of another financial measure commonly used by financial institutions, net interest margin, which is the ratio of net interest income to average interest earning assets. Additionally, management and many financial institutions also present net interest spread, which is the average yield on interest earning assets minus the average rate paid on interest bearing liabilities. For purposes of these measures as well, taxable equivalent net interest income is generally used by financial institutions, again to provide investors with a better basis of comparison from institution to institution. We calculate taxable equivalent net interest margin by dividing net interest income, adjusted to include the benefit of non-taxable interest income, by average interest earning assets. We calculate taxable equivalent net interest spread as the difference between average yield on interest earning assets, adjusted to include the benefit of non-taxable interest income, and the average rate paid on interest bearing liabilities.

    The efficiency ratio is a non-GAAP measure of expense control relative to revenue from net interest income and non-interest fee income. We calculate the efficiency ratio by dividing total noninterest expenses as determined under GAAP, excluding other real estate expense, net, by net interest income (fully taxable equivalent) and total noninterest income as determined under GAAP, excluding net gains on equity securities. We believe that this provides a reasonable measure of primary banking expenses relative to primary banking revenue. Additionally, we believe this measure is important to investors looking for a measure of efficiency in our productivity measured by the amount of revenue generated for each dollar spent.

    We believe that these non-GAAP financial measures provide information that is important to investors and that is useful in understanding our financial results. Our management internally assesses our performance based, in part, on these measures. However, these non-GAAP financial measures are supplemental and not a substitute for an analysis based on GAAP measures. As other companies may use different calculations for these measures, this presentation may not be comparable to other similarly titled measures reported by other companies. A reconciliation of the non-GAAP measures of tangible equity as a percentage of tangible assets, and efficiency ratio to the most directly comparable GAAP measures is set forth below. We have not presented a reconciliation of taxable equivalent net interest income, taxable equivalent net interest margin or taxable equivalent net interest spread to the most directly comparable GAAP measure, as there was no difference between the taxable equivalent measure and comparable GAAP measure for any period presented in this release.

     
    NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES RECONCILIATION
                   
    (dollars in thousands)              
    (Unaudited)              
        9/30/2024 6/30/2024 9/30/2023      
    Tangible Book Value Per Share              
                   
    Equity (GAAP)   $ 669,021   $ 655,168   $ 623,926        
    Less: Intangible assets     553     553     553        
    Tangible equity (Non-GAAP)   $ 668,468   $ 654,615   $ 623,373        
                   
    Shares outstanding     19,010     19,010     19,024        
    Tangible book value per share     35.16     34.44     32.77        
    Book value per share     35.19     34.46     32.80        
                   
    Tangible Equity to Tangible Assets              
    Total Assets (GAAP)   $ 6,109,680   $ 6,106,644   $ 6,054,298        
    Less: Intangible assets     553     553     553        
    Tangible assets (Non-GAAP)   $ 6,109,127   $ 6,106,091   $ 6,053,745        
                   
    Tangible Equity to Tangible Assets (Non-GAAP)     10.94 %   10.72 %   10.30 %      
    Equity to Assets (GAAP)     10.95 %   10.73 %   10.31 %      
                   
        Three months ended   Nine Months Ended
    Efficiency Ratio   9/30/2024 6/30/2024 9/30/2023   9/30/2024 9/30/2023
                   
    Net interest income (GAAP)   $ 38,671   $ 37,788   $ 42,221     $ 113,037   $ 133,238  
    Taxable equivalent adjustment                        
    Net interest income (fully taxable equivalent) (Non-GAAP)     38,671     37,788     42,221       113,037     133,238  
    Non-interest income (GAAP)     4,931     5,651     4,574       15,425     13,841  
    Less: Net gains on equity securities     23     1,360           1,383      
    Revenue used for efficiency ratio (Non-GAAP)   $ 43,579   $ 42,079   $ 46,795     $ 127,079   $ 147,079  
                   
    Total noninterest expense (GAAP)   $ 26,200   $ 26,459   $ 27,460     $ 77,562   $ 82,466  
    Less: Other real estate expense, net     204     16     163       294     536  
    Expense used for efficiency ratio (Non-GAAP)   $ 25,996   $ 26,443   $ 27,297     $ 77,268   $ 81,930  
                   
    Efficiency Ratio     59.65 %   62.84 %   58.33 %     60.80 %   55.70 %
                   
       
    Subsidiary: Trustco Bank
       
    Contact: Robert Leonard
    Executive Vice President
    (518) 381-3693

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: EVe Mobility Acquisition Corp Announces Continued Listing on NYSE American Following Compliance Extension

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SANTA MONICA, CA, Oct. 21, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — EVe Mobility Acquisition Corp (NYSE American: EVE), a Cayman Islands exempted company (“EVe” or the “Company”), announced today that on October 16, 2024, the Company received a written late extension request acceptance letter from the NYSE American LLC (“NYSE American” or the “NYSE Regulation”), because it is not in compliance with the continued listing standards of the NYSE American. Specifically, the Company has not met the requirements set forth in Sections 134 and 1101 of the NYSE American Company Guide due to its delayed filings of the Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023, and its Form 10-Qs for the periods ended March 31, 2024, and June 30, 2024 (the “Delayed Filings”).

    In accordance with Section 1007 of the Company Guide, the Company submitted an extension request after being unable to cure the filing deficiencies within the initial six-month period of the 12-month cure period. NYSE Regulation has reviewed and accepted the Company’s request, granting an extended plan period through December 14, 2024, to complete the Delayed Filings, as well as any additional filings delayed thereafter.

    During this plan period, NYSE Regulation will periodically review the Company’s compliance with the milestones outlined in its submission. If the Company does not make progress toward becoming current in its SEC filings during the plan period or does not complete its business combination by December 14, 2024, NYSE Regulation staff may initiate delisting proceedings. The Company may appeal any such delisting determination.

    In compliance with Sections 402 and 1009(e) of the NYSE American Company Guide, the Company is issuing this press release to inform its shareholders that its listing is being continued under an extension, with a targeted completion date of December 14, 2024.

    About EVe

    EVe Mobility Acquisition Corp is a blank check company whose business purpose is to effect a merger, share exchange, asset acquisition, share purchase, reorganization or similar business combination with one or more businesses.

    Forward Looking-Statements

    Certain statements made in this press release are “forward looking statements” within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. When used in this press release, the words “estimates,” “projected,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “forecasts,” “plans,” “intends,” “believes,” “seeks,” “may,” “will,” “should,” “future,” “propose” and variations of these words or similar expressions (or the negative versions of such words or expressions) are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, conditions or results, and involve a number of known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other important factors, many of which are outside EVe’s control, that could cause actual results or outcomes to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements. Many factors could cause actual future events to differ materially from the forward-looking statements in this document, including but not limited to: the ability of the Company to file timely file its required annual and quarterly reports with the SEC; the ability of the Company to regain compliance with NYSE American continued listing standards and maintain the listing of the Company’s securities on a national securities exchange. EVe undertake no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

    Contact:

    info@evemobility.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: SHAREHOLDER INVESTIGATION: The M&A Class Action Firm Investigates the Merger of Zoura, Inc. – ZUO

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, Oct. 21, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

    Monteverde & Associates PC (the “M&A Class Action Firm”), has recovered money for shareholders and is recognized as a Top 50 Firm in the 2018-2022 ISS Securities Class Action Services Report. We are headquartered at the Empire State Building in New York City and are investigating Zuora Inc. (NYSE: ZUO), relating to its proposed merger with Silver Lake Group, L.C.C. Under the terms of the agreement, all ZUO shares will be automatically converted into the right to receive $10.00 in cash per share.

    Click here for more information https://monteverdelaw.com/case/zuora-inc/. It is free and there is no cost or obligation to you.

    NOT ALL LAW FIRMS ARE THE SAME. Before you hire a law firm, you should talk to a lawyer and ask:

    1. Do you file class actions and go to Court?
    2. When was the last time you recovered money for shareholders?
    3. What cases did you recover money in and how much?

    About Monteverde & Associates PC

    Our firm litigates and has recovered money for shareholders…and we do it from our offices in the Empire State Building. We are a national class action securities firm with a successful track record in trial and appellate courts, including the U.S. Supreme Court. 

    No company, director or officer is above the law. If you own common stock in the above listed company and have concerns or wish to obtain additional information free of charge, please visit our website or contact Juan Monteverde, Esq. either via e-mail at jmonteverde@monteverdelaw.com or by telephone at (212) 971-1341.

    Contact:
    Juan Monteverde, Esq.
    MONTEVERDE & ASSOCIATES PC
    The Empire State Building
    350 Fifth Ave. Suite 4740
    New York, NY 10118
    United States of America
    jmonteverde@monteverdelaw.com
    Tel: (212) 971-1341

    Attorney Advertising. (C) 2024 Monteverde & Associates PC. The law firm responsible for this advertisement is Monteverde & Associates PC (http://www.monteverdelaw.com).  Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome with respect to any future matter.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: TAG Oil Announces $10 Million Overnight Marketed Public Offering of Units to Strategically Advance Unconventional and Conventional Opportunities in Egypt

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NOT FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES

    VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Oct. 21, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — TAG Oil Ltd. (TSXV:TAO, OTCQX:TAOIF, and FSE:TOP) (“TAG Oil” or the “Company”) is pleased to announce that it has filed a preliminary short form prospectus (“Preliminary Prospectus”) with the securities commissions in all provinces of Canada, except Québec, in connection with an overnight marketed public offering (the “Offering”) of units of the Company (the “Units”) at a price of $0.21 per Unit for aggregate gross proceeds of C$10,000,000.

    Certain members of management and directors of the Company intend to participate alongside investors in the Offering.

    The Offering is being led by Research Capital Corporation, as lead underwriter and sole-bookrunner, on behalf of a syndicate of underwriters (collectively, the “Underwriters”).

    Each Unit will consist of one common share of the Company (“Common Share”) and one-half of one Common Share purchase warrant (each whole warrant, a “Warrant”). Each Warrant entitles the holder thereof to purchase one Common Share (a “Warrant Share”) at an exercise price equal to $0.30 per Warrant Share at any time up to 24 months following the closing of the Offering.

    The Company intends to use the net proceeds of the Offering to advance appraisal and development activities in the Western Desert, Egypt, at both the Badr Oil Field and strategic new 512,000-acre concession and for working capital and general corporate purposes. Activities to be advanced with the proceeds include executing re-entry work on multiple existing wells to recomplete and/or drill a sidetrack into existing conventional oil reservoirs, the drilling of new vertical delineation wells in the unconventional Abu Roash “F” (ARF) resource play targeting high intensity natural fractured areas, and the planning of the next horizontal well with multi-stage frac.

    In addition, the Company plans to also complete a third-party resource report on the new strategic 512,000-acre concession that is in the process of being acquired and conduct a potential strategic joint venture partnership process.

    The Company has granted the Underwriters an option, exercisable in whole or in part, at the sole discretion of the Underwriters, at any time, from time to time, for a period of 30 days from and including the closing of the Offering, to purchase from the Company up to an additional 15% of the Units sold under the Offering, and/or the components thereof, on the same terms and conditions of the Offering to cover over-allotments, if any, and for market stabilization purposes.

    The Offering is expected to be priced in context of the market, with the final price of the Units and final exercise price of the Warrants to be determined at the time of pricing.

    The Offering is expected to close on or about the week of November 11, 2024, or such other date as the Company and the Underwriters may agree. Closing of the Offering is subject to customary closing conditions, including, but not limited to, the receipt of all necessary regulatory approvals, including the approval of the securities regulatory authorities and the TSX Venture Exchange.

    The Units are being offered in each of the provinces of Canada (except Québec) and may be offered in the United States on a private placement basis pursuant to an appropriate exemption from the registration requirements under applicable U.S. law, and outside of Canada and the United States on a private placement or equivalent basis. The Preliminary Prospectus is available on SEDAR+ at http://www.sedarplus.ca and may be obtained from Research Capital Corporation at ecm@researchcapital.com. The Preliminary Prospectus contains important information about the Company and the Offering. Prospective investors should read the Preliminary Prospectus and other documents the Company has filed before making an investment decision.

    This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any of securities in the United States. The securities have not been and will not be registered under the U.S. Securities Act or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to U.S. Persons unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or an exemption from such registration is available.

    About TAG Oil Ltd.

    TAG Oil (http://www.tagoil.com/) is a Canadian based international oil and gas exploration company with a focus on operations and opportunities in the Middle East and North Africa.

    For further information:

    Toby Pierce, Chief Executive Officer
    Phone: 1 604 609 3355

    Email: info@tagoil.com
    Website: http://www.tagoil.com/
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tag-oil-ltd
    X: https://twitter.com/tagoilltd

    Neither the TSX-V nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX-V) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This news release includes certain statements and information that constitute forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. All statements in this news release, other than statements of historical facts are forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements and forward-looking information specifically include, but are not limited to, statements that relate to the completion of the Offering and the timing in respect thereof, the use of proceeds of the Offering, timely receipt of all necessary approvals, including the approval of the TSX Venture Exchange and the proposed completion of a third party resource report.

    Statements contained in this release that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements that involve various risks and uncertainty affecting the business of TAG Oil. Such statements can generally, but not always, be identified by words such as “expects”, “plans”, “anticipates”, “intends”, “estimates”, “forecasts”, “schedules”, “prepares”, “potential” and similar expressions, or that events or conditions “will”, “would”, “may”, “could” or “should” occur. All statements that describe the Company’s plans relating to operations and potential strategic opportunities are forward-looking statements under applicable securities laws. These statements address future events and conditions and are reliant on assumptions made by the Company’s management, and so involve inherent risks and uncertainties, as disclosed in the Company’s periodic filings with Canadian securities regulators. As a result of these risks and uncertainties, and the assumptions underlying the forward-looking information, actual results could materially differ from those currently projected, and there is no representation by TAG Oil that the actual results realized in the future will be the same in whole or in part as those presented herein. TAG Oil disclaims any intent or obligation to update forward-looking statements or information except as required by law. Readers are referred to the additional information regarding TAG Oil’s business contained in TAG Oil’s reports filed with the securities regulatory authorities in Canada. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual actions, events, or results to differ materially from those described in forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that could cause actions, events or results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. For more information on TAG Oil and the risks and challenges of its business, investors should review TAG Oil’s filings that are available at http://www.sedarplus.ca.

    TAG Oil provides no assurance that forward-looking statements and information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements or information. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements or information.

    Exploration for hydrocarbons is a speculative venture necessarily involving substantial risk. The Company’s future success in exploiting and increasing its current reserve base will depend on its ability to develop its current properties and on its ability to discover and acquire properties or prospects that are capable of commercial production. However, there is no assurance that the Company’s future exploration and development efforts will result in the discovery or development of additional commercial accumulations of oil and natural gas.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Monroe Capital Corporation Schedules Third Quarter 2024 Earnings Release and Conference Call

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CHICAGO, Oct. 21, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Monroe Capital Corporation (the “Company”) (NASDAQ: MRCC) announced today that it will report its third quarter ended September 30, 2024 financial results on Tuesday, November 12, 2024, after the close of the financial markets.

    The Company will host a webcast and conference call to discuss these operating and financial results on Wednesday, November 13, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. Eastern Time. The webcast will be hosted on a webcast link located in the Investor Relations section of our website at http://ir.monroebdc.com/events.cfm. To participate in the conference call, please dial (800) 715-9871 approximately 10 minutes prior to the call. Please reference conference ID # 5769748. For those unable to listen to the live broadcast, the webcast will be available for replay on the Company’s website approximately two hours after the event.

    About Monroe Capital Corporation

    Monroe Capital Corporation is a publicly-traded specialty finance company that principally invests in senior, unitranche and junior secured debt and, to a lesser extent, unsecured debt and equity investments in middle-market companies. The Company’s investment objective is to maximize the total return to its stockholders in the form of current income and capital appreciation. The Company’s investment activities are managed by its investment adviser, Monroe Capital BDC Advisors, LLC, which is an investment adviser registered under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as amended, and an affiliate of Monroe Capital LLC. To learn more about Monroe Capital Corporation, visit http://www.monroebdc.com.

    About Monroe Capital LLC

    Monroe Capital LLC (including its subsidiaries and affiliates, together “Monroe”) is a premier asset management firm specializing in private credit markets across various strategies, including direct lending, technology finance, venture debt, alternative credit, structured credit, real estate and equity. Since 2004, the firm has been successfully providing capital solutions to clients in the U.S. and Canada. Monroe prides itself on being a value-added and user-friendly partner to business owners, management, and both private equity and independent sponsors. Monroe’s platform offers a wide variety of investment products for both institutional and high net worth investors with a focus on generating high quality “alpha” returns irrespective of business or economic cycles. The firm is headquartered in Chicago and maintains 10 offices throughout the United States and Asia.

    Monroe has been recognized by both its peers and investors with various awards including Private Debt Investor as the 2023 Lower Mid-Market Lender of the Decade, 2023 Lower Mid-Market Lender of the Year, 2023 CLO Manager of the Year, Americas; Inc.’s 2023 Founder-Friendly Investors List; Global M&A Network as the 2023 Lower Mid-Markets Lender of the Year, U.S.A.; DealCatalyst as the 2022 Best CLO Manager of the Year; Korean Economic Daily as the 2022 Best Performance in Private Debt – Mid Cap; Creditflux as the 2021 Best U.S. Direct Lending Fund; and Pension Bridge as the 2020 Private Credit Strategy of the Year. For more information and important disclaimers, please visit http://www.monroecap.com.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release may contain certain forward-looking statements. Any such statements, other than statements of historical fact, are likely to be affected by other unknowable future events and conditions, including elements of the future that are or are not under the Company’s control, and that the Company may or may not have considered; accordingly, such statements cannot be guarantees or assurances of any aspect of future performance. Actual developments and results are highly likely to vary materially from these estimates and projections of the future. Such statements speak only as of the time when made, and the Company undertakes no obligation to update any such statement now or in the future.

    SOURCE:          Monroe Capital Corporation

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Element Welcomes New Chief Data and Analytics Officer, Evelyne Roy

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, Oct. 21, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Element Fleet Management Corp. (TSX:EFN) (“Element” or the “Company”), the largest publicly traded, pure-play automotive fleet manager in the world, is excited to announce the appointment of Evelyne Roy as its new Chief Data and Analytics Officer. In this role, Ms. Roy will be accountable for designing and building scalable data and analytics systems that enable insights and responsible AI to optimize business operations, drive growth, improve safety, and ensure an exceptional client experience. 

    “We are delighted to welcome Evelyne to the Element team,” said Laura Dottori-Attanasio, CEO, Element. “She is an adept data technology leader, whose extensive experience and passion for leveraging data to drive business success make her the ideal candidate for this role and delivering our Purpose to Move the world through intelligent mobility.”

    Ms. Roy, whose appointment is effective immediately, brings with her over 25 years of experience leading the data strategy, architecture, and distribution for data and analytics platforms, having previously held leadership roles at Thompson Reuters Corporation, as well as increasingly senior roles in the financial industry in both Australia and Canada. With a proven track record of utilizing data to drive business strategies and improve client experiences, Ms. Roy is a valuable addition to the Element team. This appointment reflects Element’s continued commitment to investing in the modernization of its digital capabilities to deliver increased value to its clients.

    “As a leader in fleet management, we recognize the importance of data and analytics in delivering efficient and effective solutions for our clients,” said Kobi Eisenberg, President Element Mobility and Autofleet. “We are confident that Evelyne will play a pivotal role in our ongoing commitment to providing best-in-class mobility solutions and ensuring we stay ahead of the evolving needs of our industry.”

    “I’m thrilled to join the Element team, and be a part of this Purpose-driven, client-centric organization,” said Ms. Roy. “Together, we are going to deliver data and digital-first solutions that meet and exceed our clients’ expectations.”

    About Element Fleet Management

    Element Fleet Management (TSX: EFN) is the largest publicly traded pure-play automotive fleet manager in the world, providing the full range of fleet services and solutions to a growing base of loyal, world-class clients – corporations, governments, and not-for-profits – across North America, Australia, and New Zealand. Element’s services address every aspect of clients’ fleet requirements, from vehicle acquisition, maintenance, accidents and remarketing, to integrating EVs and managing the complexity of gradual fleet electrification. Clients benefit from Element’s expertise as one of the largest fleet solutions providers in its markets, offering economies of scale and insight used to reduce fleet operating costs and improve productivity and performance. For more information, visit elementfleet.com/investor-relations.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: North American Construction Group Ltd. Third Quarter Results Conference Call and Webcast Notification

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ACHESON, Alberta, Oct. 21, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — North American Construction Group Ltd. (“NACG” or “the Company”) (TSX:NOA.TO/NYSE:NOA) announced today that it will release its financial results for the third quarter ended September 30, 2024 on Wednesday, October 30, 2024 after markets close. Following the release of its financial results, NACG will hold a conference call and webcast on Thursday, October 31, 2024, at 7:00 a.m. Mountain Time (9:00 a.m. Eastern Time).

    The call can be accessed by dialing:
    Toll free: 1-800-717-1738
    Conference ID: 86919

    A replay will be available through November 29, 2024, by dialing:
    Toll Free: 1-888-660-6264
    Conference ID: 86919
    Playback Passcode: 86919

    A slide deck for the webcast will be available for download the evening prior to the call and will be found on the company’s website at http://www.nacg.ca/presentations/

    The live presentation and webcast can be accessed at: North American Construction Group Ltd. Third Quarter Results Conference Call Registration (onlinexperiences.com)

    A replay will be available until November 29, 2024, using the link provided.

    About the Company

    North American Construction Group Ltd. is a premier provider of heavy civil construction and mining services in Canada, the U.S. and Australia. For over 70 years, NACG has provided services to the mining, resource and infrastructure construction markets.

    For further information, please contact:

    Jason Veenstra, CPA, CA
    Chief Financial Officer
    North American Construction Group Ltd.
    Phone: (780) 960-7171
    Email: ir@nacg.ca

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Global: To truly understand the health of a lake, you must look well beyond its shoreline

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Beatrix Beisner, Professor, Aquatic ecology, Université du Québec à Montréal (UQAM)

    On the surface, most of Canada’s lakes and rivers look pristine. But below the surface, many are facing essential challenges to their health. Why? To better understand the health of Canadian lakes and rivers, we must look beyond the site itself to the whole watershed.

    Canada’s freshwater streams, rivers and lakes are inherently connected ecosystems. Driven by precipitation and gravity, the flow of water changes across seasons and location. Connected waterflows form watersheds. A watershed is the combined area drained by a body of water, including groundwater aquifers.

    All human activity within a watershed that affects the quality of flowing water — including rain, snow, irrigation or groundwater — will have an impact upon all the water bodies in the system. Because of this, it is essential to monitor and regulate human activities in a lake’s watershed if its health and biodiversity are to be preserved.

    Disturbances can influence aquatic ecosystems even if they occur far away from the water’s edge, especially where large quantities of water flow rapidly. Simply put, what happens upstream, and on land, is as important to what is happening in the lake itself. What’s more, poor freshwater health can affect the health of the land within the watershed as well.


    Our lakes: their secrets and challenges, is a series produced by La Conversation/The Conversation.

    This article is part of our series Our lakes: their secrets and challenges. The Conversation and La Conversation invite you to take a fascinating dip in our lakes. With magnifying glasses, microscopes and diving goggles, our scientists scrutinize the biodiversity of our lakes and the processes that unfold in them, and tell us about the challenges they face. Don’t miss our articles on these incredibly rich bodies of water!


    In my research, I work to better understand lake, stream and river ecosystem functioning, biodiversity and health. This is of increasing importance as aquatic environments are affected by climate change. What is clear, is that to fully understand what is going on in a lake ecosystem, you need to look beyond its shoreline.

    Truly understanding how water flows within a watershed can empower us to act more responsibly and design more just and effective policies.

    Inconsistent boundaries

    Watershed boundaries, which are defined by landscape topography, often do not overlap nicely with political boundaries — with the Nile Basin being perhaps the most obvious example.

    Moreover, humans have long been manipulating water flows through dams and irrigation. Where we place our cities, agriculture, mines and forestry also often overlaps with more than one watershed or can overwhelm another.

    Recent work, as part of the Lake Pulse Network, has sampled over 650 lakes across Canada. This research demonstrated that only a four per cent to 12 per cent urbanization level within a watershed is enough to harm biodiversity and ecosystem functioning.

    Urbanization is one of the most impactful ways in which humans affect watersheds. The reasons for this are likely down to hard infrastructure blocking the flow of water along with forestry and agriculture land conversions changing how water flows.

    The inescapable truth is that the health and function of a specific aquatic ecosystem is shaped by what happens on the land within that watershed as a whole. These system-wide influences are known as as “allochthonous” — as opposed to “autochthonous” (internal) interactions solely within a single waterbody.

    External influences (runoff) from the land can overwhelm a water body’s internal processes and, in some case, can even have negative impacts upon both fish health and the wider local food web.

    Climate change is also playing an increasingly outsized role in the lives of Canadian lakes. The most noticeable impacts of a warming world in Canada are forest fires of increasing severity and duration and ever more intense storms.

    These extreme events will cause more runoff into our lakes, potentially overwhelming them through nutrient overloading, salinization and other chemical shifts in the water quality.




    Read more:
    Sediment runoff from the land is killing NZ’s seas – it’s time to take action


    Managing water flows

    The connectivity between waterbodies within a watershed is also critical to consider in biodiversity conservation.

    First, these aquatic connections serve as migratory corridors for mammals and birds, but also aquatic species of fish and invertebrates like insects and crayfish. With climate change and warming waters across Canada, aquatic organisms will increasingly need such corridors within watersheds to move northwards to cooler waters.

    Just as migratory pathways enable the dispersal of native species, they can also aid the spread of invasive species. Invasive species management must also take a watershed perspective, and not focus on a single invaded lake or river.

    If an exotic species has arrived in your watershed then you are likely to soon see that species in a lake or river near you.

    Contaminants — such as pesticides, other toxins, microplastics and nutrients — also require a watershed-wide approach to effectively manage. Like an invasive species, contaminants can flow downstream across a watershed. Though, the presence of healthy wetlands within a watershed can help filter these out and improve water quality.

    Dams, bridges and culverts provide a clear physical barrier to connectivity within a watershed. Though not without utility, these human constructs greatly affect the watershed ecosystem.

    For example, many fish species will not pass through a culvert or under a low bridge. These human structures can greatly disrupt fish population dynamics, movement pathways and abilities to adapt to changing conditions.

    Unfortunately, the challenges facing fish populations can have significant impacts for biodiversity health, and ecosystem services, across the watershed.

    Endlessly interconnected

    The interconnected nature of watershed ecosystems necessitates collaborative forms of governance.

    Integrated watershed management is an approach to water governance that involves many different agencies, communities and levels of government. Several provinces use this approach, including the most populated provinces of Ontario and Québec. This model must become the norm across Canada.




    Read more:
    How the invasive spiny water flea spread across Canada, and what we can do about it


    More fundamentally, biodiversity protection in a watershed must be handled in an integrated manner. Ideally this would be done using natural watershed boundaries, and not political ones, especially with respect to managing issues related to connectivity. However, this may not always be possible, in which case water governance systems must transcend political boundaries as needed.

    Enabling watershed governance across political boundaries is an area where the new federal Canada Water Agency could play a leading role.

    Regardless of specific arrangement, it is imperative that all who care about the health of Canada’s freshwater consider its lakes and rivers within their larger watersheds. Only by focusing on watershed health can we preserve Canada’s freshwater.

    Beatrix Beisner currently receives research funding from NSERC, FRQNT, Hydro-Québec and the Québec Ministry of Environment (MELCCFP) . She is Co-director of the Interuniversity Research Group in Limnology / Groupe de recherche interuniversitaire en limnologie (GRIL).

    ref. To truly understand the health of a lake, you must look well beyond its shoreline – https://theconversation.com/to-truly-understand-the-health-of-a-lake-you-must-look-well-beyond-its-shoreline-228352

    MIL OSI – Global Reports

  • MIL-OSI USA: Visit a Disaster Recovery Center in Virginia

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Visit a Disaster Recovery Center in Virginia

    Visit a Disaster Recovery Center in Virginia

    BRISTOL, Va.—If you were affected by Tropical Storm Helene, visit a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) to apply for assistance and learn about resources from FEMA, the Small Business Administration, the commonwealth of Virginia, and other organizations to aid you in your recovery.   

    What is a DRC?

    A DRC, or Disaster Recovery Center, is an accessible facility that you can visit in person to learn more about FEMA and other agencies providing disaster assistance in Virginia. Residents, property owners, business owners and farmers can go to a DRC to apply for assistance and obtain resources. 

    This video provides an overview about what you can expect when you visit a DRC: Disaster Recovery Center (DRC): Your Resource After a Hurricane (youtube.com). 

    What can I get help with? 

    At a Disaster Recovery Center you can get one-on-one help with staff from the organizations present. FEMA staff at DRCs are happy to spend time with you to explain the types of assistance offered and help you apply. 

    The specialists at a DRC can help you: 

    • Apply for disaster grants from FEMA. 
    • Submit additional documents for your application.
    • Understand and respond to a letter from FEMA. 
    • Apply for low-interest disaster loans for individuals and businesses with the Small Business Administration (SBA). 
    • Find resources about agricultural recovery and assistance for farmers.
    • Learn how to replace damaged documents like proof of address or birth certificates.
    • Get connected to commonwealth of Virginia resources.
    • Obtain information on the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and how to mitigate against future losses.
    • Find other sources of assistance, like nonprofit help.

    Who is at a DRC? 

    Every Disaster Recovery Center is a little different, based on the local community’s needs. 

    All DRCs will have FEMA staff, trained in the Individual Assistance program, available to answer questions about the FEMA disaster assistance application process. FEMA hazard mitigation staff are also available to speak to survivors who want to learn about ways to make their properties safer from floods and build back better. All DRCs have staff from the Small Business Administration. 

    DRCs will have representatives from the commonwealth of Virginia, though the specific agencies will differ from location to location. If you need help from a specific agency, you can still come to a DRC where staff can share information and get you in touch with the agency you need. 

    DRCs may have representatives from nonprofit organizations as well as other local agencies. 

    What should I bring?

    You do not need to bring anything to visit a DRC – just yourself. However, depending on the help you are looking for, it can be helpful to prepare ahead of time. 

    Applying for Assistance: If you are starting or resuming an application for assistance, you should bring the following with you: 

    • Insurance information, if available 
    • The address and zip code of your disaster-damaged home
    • Condition of your damaged home
    • Social Security number 
    • Phone number, address, and email (if you have one) where you can be contacted
    • Bank account information, if you would like to set up direct deposit 

    For examples of these documents and a more detailed application checklist, see the application checklist on DisasterAssistance.gov.

    If you have questions about a FEMA determination letter it will be helpful if you bring the letter and any documents requested in the letter. If you have a FEMA ID number, write that down and bring it with you. If you don’t have it, staff can ask you other questions to access your application information.

    What should I expect? 

    DRCs are accessible to all, including survivors who are Deaf and Hard of Hearing.

    Every DRC is laid out differently to make best use of the space. You can watch a quick video that walks through a DRC in New York from 2021.  

    DRCs will always have signs out front, indicating where to enter.

    Once you walk in the front doors, you will be greeted, and you will sign in. All DRCs have security guards present at the entrance. You may have to wait for a few moments for the specialist you need to be available. If so, you can sit down in designated chairs or a waiting area. Most of the time, you will not need to wait and will be helped immediately. 

    As soon as a specialist is available, they will work with you personally to help answer your questions, help you register for assistance or understand your documents, connect you with available resources, and more.

    Where do I find a DRC near me? 

    As of Oct. 21, there are six DRCs open across southwest Virginia. New DRCs will continue to open over the coming weeks.  To find a DRC near you, including addresses and hours, go to FEMA.gov/drc or text DRC and a ZIP code to 43362.

    FEMA has set up a rumor response webpage to clarify our role in the Helene response. Visit Hurricane Helene: Rumor Response | FEMA.gov. 

    For more information on Virginia’s disaster recovery, visit vaemergency.gov,  the Virginia Department of Emergency Management Facebook page , fema.gov/disaster/4831 and facebook.com/FEMA.  

    ###

    FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. FEMA Region 3’s jurisdiction includes Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia. Follow us on X at x.com/FEMAregion3 and on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/femaregion3.

     

    To apply for FEMA assistance, please call the FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-3362, visit https://www.disasterassistance.gov/, or download and apply on the FEMA App. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. Multilingual operators are available (press 2 for Spanish and 3 for other languages). Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status.

    connor.dacey

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Minister Guilbeault delivers statement on opening day of COP16 in Cali, Colombia

    Source: Government of Canada News

    Our recent 2030 Nature Strategy, released ahead of COP16, charts our path to achieving our objectives. To hold this and any future government accountable to fulfill those goals, we introduced the Nature Accountability Bill that requires the Government to transparently report on their progress.

    October 21, 2024 – Ottawa, Ontario

    “COP16 is here, and Canada is ready. Our livelihoods, our communities, and our economies rely on being responsible with the natural world, which is telling us it is in trouble.

    “Canada is immensely proud of the role we played in hosting COP15 in Montréal. Seeing the gavel come down in the late hours of the conference to pass the Kunming–Montréal Global Biodiversity Framework was an unforgettable moment for me. Together, we landed an agreement many said was not possible and planted the seed for a strong global action.

    “COP16 is the first chance for countries to show their plans. The natural world simply won’t wait for us to get our act together. Our citizens and communities around the world expect us to deliver.

    “For our part, Canada has moved fast and early. We are steadily making progress on the largest conservation campaign in our country’s history, backed by over $12 billion in investments and aiming toward protecting 30 percent of Canadian land and water by 2030. Our recent 2030 Nature Strategy, released ahead of COP16, charts our path to achieving our objectives.

    “To hold this and any future government accountable to fulfill those goals, we introduced the Nature Accountability Bill that requires the Government to transparently report on their progress. To date, we have gone from one percent to 15 percent protected oceans. We have conserved almost half a million hectares of land, with many large-scale conservation projects in the works. We are upholding the Species at Risk Act to protect threatened species. We moved forward quickly with the hope that it would encourage other countries to announce ambitious biodiversity plans.

    “Canada is coming to COP16 ready to galvanize leadership and action. Since COP15, we launched the Nature Champions Network, a ministerial-level group that focuses on fostering international awareness and understanding of the global biodiversity framework. We are leading members of the High Ambition Coalition for Nature and People who played an instrumental role in landing the deal at COP15. Canada became the first contributor country to pledge $200 million for the Global Biodiversity Framework Fund launched in record time in 2023 to support developing countries in the implementation of their biodiversity plans to restore nature and grow resilient economies.

    “Increasing global biodiversity momentum requires partnerships, especially with Indigenous peoples. That’s why Canada looks forward to working with Indigenous peoples toward historic COP16 outcomes with the creation of a United Nations permanent body under the Convention on Biological Diversity that further recognizes the role and contribution of Indigenous peoples in the implementation of global biodiversity goals.   

    “Now is our chance. Let’s make COP16 a breakthrough for many countries ready to deliver on the global biodiversity framework.”

    Canada on-the-ground at COP16

    • Canada will call for rapid global action to protect biodiversity, including through strengthened engagement with Indigenous peoples.
    • Canada will host multiple side-events at COP, including two in partnership with Indigenous leadership innovation, to show the world the importance of collaboration with Indigenous peoples and successful Indigenous-led conservation in Canada.
    • Canada has delivered its ambitious 2030 Nature Strategy as promised at COP15 and is pioneering the Nature Accountability Bill, setting a new standard as one of the first countries in the world to propose legislation to meet biodiversity commitments at the federal level.
    • In 2023, Canada established the Nature Champions Network, a ministerial-level network that focuses on fostering international awareness and understanding of the Kunming–Montréal Global Biodiversity Framework and retaining momentum to ensure that all countries deliver updated national biodiversity strategies and action plans by COP16. The Champions will be at COP16 to discuss progress and advocate for rapid global biodiversity action.

    Quick facts

    • Both the 2030 Nature Strategy and the Nature Accountability Bill provide a roadmap for collaboration across all levels of government and with Indigenous peoples in the development and implementation of measures aimed at meeting Kunming–Montréal Global Biodiversity Framework and related Convention on Biological Diversity commitments.
    • At COP15, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced $350 million in funding to support developing countries in advancing biodiversity efforts and to support the implementation of the Post-2020 Global Biodiversity Framework.
    • Indigenous-led conservation is proven to help land, water, and communities thrive, and it is central to Canada’s plan to protect 30 percent of our land and water by 2030.
    • In recent years, the Government of Canada has made historic investments in Indigenous-led conservation projects, including through initiatives like the Indigenous Guardians Program.
    • Project Finance for Permanence provides multi-partner investments and sustainable financing for large-scale conservation and sustainable development projects. These initiatives bring together Indigenous organizations, governments, and the philanthropic community to identify shared goals for protecting nature and ultimately halting biodiversity loss while advancing community well-being and reconciliation with Indigenous peoples.
    • In 2022, during COP15, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau pledged to deliver up to $800 million in support of up to four Indigenous-led Project Finance for Permanence initiatives, including the Great Bear Sea Project Finance for Permanence.

    Hermine Landry
    Press Secretary
    Office of the Minister of Environment and Climate Change
    873-455-3714
    Hermine.Landry@ec.gc.ca

    Media Relations
    Environment and Climate Change Canada
    819-938-3338 or 1-844-836-7799 (toll-free)
    media@ec.gc.ca

    MIL OSI Canada News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Remarks by Vice President Harris and Liz Cheney at a Campaign Event | Malvern,  PA

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    People’s LightMalvern, Pennsylvania
    11:54 A.M. EDT
         THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Let’s get to it.
         MS. LONGWELL:  Let’s do it.  Let’s do it.
         THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Good morning, everyone.
         AUDIENCE:  Good morning.
         AUDIENCE MEMBER:  Happy birthday!
         MS. LONGWELL:  Oh, happy belated birthday.  (Applause.)  Oh, yeah.
    THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Thank you.  Thank you.  I appreciate that.  Thank you. 
         MS. LONGWELL:  Audience members showing me up — that’s tough.  (Laughter.)
    Okay.  So, I’ve got to start with the thing that brings us here today, because I’ve got to say it is unusual for somebody who was as high up in the Republican leadership as Liz Cheney was to be out here campaigning with the Democratic nominee for president. 
    And so, maybe — why don’t both of you tell us, but you start: You’ve actually marshaled unprecedented support from Republicans in this election.  Why do you think that is?
    THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Thank you, Sarah.  Thank you for being here and for your work.  And the congresswoman, thank you. 
    I — I have said before and it must be repeated each time: There are moments in the history of our country which challenge us, each of us, to really decide do we stand for those things that we talk about, including, in particular, country over party.  And you have been extraordinarily courageous in the way that you have done that.  And I thank you for that.  (Applause.)
    So, you know, I have in my career now — whether it was as the elected district attorney, elected attorney general, and then elected United States senator, and, of course, now vice president — I’ve counted that I have taken the oath of office six times.  And for the elected leaders here, we know it is an oath that one must take sincerely and unequivocally, which is an oath, among other things, to support and defend the Constitution of the United States and to understand what those principles represent and what they require of the individual who holds the office and the public trust.
    And let’s not undervalue that point as well.  It is not about the individual.  It is not about what is in their personal interests.  It is about what is for and in the spirit of the public good.     
     And this is a moment in this election that presents a real contrast among how I, as one of the two nominees, and my opponent, the former president, think of that duty.  And it is a duty, by the way.  There are certain things in our lives that we have the choice if we feel like it — (laughter) — and then there are certain things that are just fundamentally a duty, like to raise our children.  Things of that nature.  It is a duty to take seriously that oath and do it for the sake of the public good and in the public trust.
    And I think that at this moment, with the choice that the American people have in this election in — in two weeks and one day, this election is presenting — for the first time, probably, in certainly recent history — a very clear choice and difference between the two nominees.  And I think that is what, as much as anything, is bringing us, as Americans, together, who are understanding that we cannot, with such fundamental stakes being presented, afford to be mired in ideological differences without really staking our claim to the most fundamental ideals upon which our country stands.
    MS. LONGWELL:  Thank you.  And, you know, Congresswoman Cheney, it’s a — sort of the same question to you.  But I got to ask: You know, it’s one thing for Republicans to sign a letter.  You know, we’ve seen that she has — Vice President Harris has been endorsed by 200 Republicans in the national security space, all kinds of people from George W. Bush’s administration.  There’s been a lot of people — they’ll sign letters and maybe they’ll go on T.V., they’ll release a statement.  I was just with Republican Congressman Charlie Dent — former Republican congressman here from the state.  He voted for you in his early voting. 
    But you are out here campaigning.  You are out here holding events.  So, talk about why it’s been so important to you to be as involved as you are in getting Vice President Harris elected.
    MS. CHENEY:  Well, thank you so much, Sarah, for the question.  And — and it’s an honor to be here today with you, Madam Vice President. 
         You know — (applause) —
    THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Thank you.
    MS. CHENEY:  — for me, every — every single thing in — in my experience and in my background has — has played a part in my decision to endorse Vice President Harris. 
    And, you know, that — that begins with the fact that I’m a conservative, and I know that the most conservative of all conservative principles is being faithful to the Constitution.  And you have to choose, in this race, between someone who has been faithful to the Constitution, who will be faithful, and Donald Trump, who it’s not just us predicting how he will act.  We watched what he did after the last election.  We watched what he did on January 6th.
    And so, coming to this as someone who’s been a lifelong Republican, a lifelong conservative, also as someone who spent — I spent time working overseas before I was elected to Congress, and I’ve — I’ve spent time working in countries where people aren’t free and where people are struggling for their freedom, and I know how — how quickly democracies can unravel. 
    And I know that, as Americans, we can become accustomed to thinking, “Well, we don’t have to worry about that here.”  But I tell you, again, as someone who has seen firsthand how quickly it can happen, that that is what’s on the ballot.  That’s absolutely what’s on the ballot.
    I also — I come to this decision as a mother.  I have five children.  And there was a moment right after January 6th when my husband and I were having dinner with our two youngest, our two sons, and I looked across the table at my — my young sons, and I thought to myself, “You know, in the aftermath of the attack on the Capitol, are they going to grow up in a country where we don’t have to worry about the peaceful transfer of power?  Are they going to grow up in a country where that is guaranteed?”
    And — and I believe that every one of us in this election has a duty and an obligation to do what we know is right for the country, and that’s to support Vice President Harris.  So, I’m very honored to be here and to do that.  (Applause.)
         THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Thank you.
    You know, if I can just echo the congresswoman’s point.  So, I’ve now, as vice president, met over 150 world leaders — presidents, prime ministers, chancellors, and kings — many of them multiple times, to the point we’re on a first-name basis.  And the last few times that I’ve seen them in the relative eve of this election, they are very concerned, our allies.  Because, as you know, when we walk in those rooms around the world representing the United States of America, we have traditionally been able to walk in those rooms chin up, shoulders back, with the self-appointed and earned authority to talk about the importance of democracies and rule of law.
    But as all the role models here know, as a role model, people watch what you do to see if it lines up with what you say.  People around the world are watching this. 
    And I — I tell you, sometimes I do fret a bit about whether we, as Americans, truly understand how important we are to the world.  I hope everyone does really understand that we represent something — imperfect though we certainly are; flawed though we may be — we represent, in terms of our ideals, the — the basis of our Constitution, we represent a gold standard. 
    And when we have someone who has been president, who wants to be president again, who is saying he would be dictator on day one, would weaponize our Department of Justice — one of the principles of our democracy is that we say we have a justice system that is blind, that is not punitive against one’s enemies, they are watching.
    So, this is about direct impact on the American people, and it most certainly will impact people around the world. 
    MS. LONGWELL:  You know, I’m so glad you brought that up.  And I — I — as a follow-up, I would just ask Congressman Cheney too.  We live in a dangerous time.  I mean, I think Americans are watching what’s happening overseas in Ukraine, in Israel.  Republicans — we used to be the party that would be on the side of our democratic allies like Ukraine. 
    Talk to me a little bit and all of us about why, from a foreign policy standpoint, you find yourself able to endorse Democrats, who w- — wouldn’t — it didn’t used to be that way.
    MS. CHENEY:  Well, it — it’s not just able to endorse them.  But — but if you look at the numbers of the most senior officials who served Donald Trump — his own vice president; national security advisors; his chief of staff; you know, the — the leading generals who served him — who’ve all said he’s unfit, and people really need to stop and think about how completely unprecedented that is.
    And the — the idea — when people sort of say, “Well, we might, you know, be tempted, for some reason or another, to vote for Donald Trump” — if the issue is foreign policy, I would just ask everyone: Think about how dangerous and damaging it is to have someone who’s totally erratic — totally erratic, completely unstable — someone who has aligned himself with, who idolizes tyrants.  He idolizes tyrants. 
    You know, the — the — again, the choice here, with respect to national security policy, is a man who has proven — he has absolutely proven that he will not stand up, he won’t defend this nation with respect to our own Constitution and rule of law, and Vice President Harris, who has been clear in terms of support for Ukraine, in terms of recognizing and understanding across the board that America cannot maintain our own freedom and security if we walk away from our allies around the world. 
    And our adversaries know that they can play Donald Trump.  They absolutely know that they can play him.  And we simply can’t afford to take that risk.
    So, as someone who has spent a career on national security issues — again, this was not at all a difficult choice for me — the — the choice here is absolutely clear in terms of the necessity of supporting Vice President Harris.
    THE VICE PRESIDENT:  And — and if I may emphasize, part of the backbone of our national security is our military.  And let’s please not overlook how someone who wants to be commander in chief and was has talked about our servicemen and women; has talked about an American hero like John McCain, who was a prisoner of war — said he didn’t respect him, didn’t like him because he got caught; has talked about our service members as — as though they are less than the most courageous of us. 
     Those who put on the uniform, who represent the United States of America, who are willing to die for the sake of everything we stand for, and he calls them “suckers” and “losers.”  These things cannot be overlooked. 
    And — and I have said many times publicly, and I’ll say it again: In many, many ways, Donald Trump is an unserious man, but the consequences of him being president of the United States are brutally serious.  There are things that he says that will be the subject of skits and laughter and jokes, but words have meaning coming from someone who aspires to stand behind the seal of the president of the United States.  These are the things that are at stake.
         MS. LONGWELL:  Couldn’t agree more. 
    So, I do want to ask you another question, though, before we go to the audience.  You know, you talk a lot about a new way forward.  You talk about turning the page.  What’s on the next page?  Talk to us about a —
    THE VICE PRESIDENT:  You want a preview.
    MS. LONGWELL:  Yeah.  Give me — a spoiler alert.  You know?  (Laughter.)  Just —
    THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Right.
    MS. LONGWELL:  — tell us — tell us what’s — what’s in the rest of the chapter.
    THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Well, first of all, I will say that it — it is a metaphor that is meant to also describe my intention to embark on a new generation of leadership.  And needless to say, mine will not be a continuation of the Biden administration.  I bring to it my own ideas, my own experiences.
    But it is also about moving past what, frankly, I think has been the last decade of — of the American discourse being influenced by Donald Trump in a way that has had the effect of suggesting we, as Americans, should point the finger at one another, in a way that has been using the power of the presidency to demean and to divide us.
    I think people are exhausted with that, rightly.  And it, frankly, does not lead to the strength of our nation to tell the American people that we must be suspicious of one another, distrust one another.
    You know, yesterday, I — I did a couple of church services, and there’s a — we — many people here know the — the parable of the Good Samaritan.  And there is an essence — a piece of that, in my own words, that really requires us, I think, to see in the face of a — of a stranger, to see a neighbor.  Right?  That spirit.  And I think we need to get back to that.
    The spirit of the American people is such that, you know, we are an ambitious people.  We are aspirational.  We have dreams.  And that is productive. 
    It is not productive of us to be a nation of people who are pointing fingers at one another, who don’t understand that the vast majority of us have so much more in common than what separates us.
    So, that’s what I mean about turning the page.  And then a new generation of leadership about being ambitious, about all we have yet to do. 
    Part of my economic policy — I refer to it as an opportunity economy — is about investing in American industries while leaving none of our traditional, wonderful industries behind; repurposing and retooling the factories that have led to America’s success in industry, while at the same time redefining how we are thinking about which worker has the experience and skill to do the — the job and is qualified and understanding we shouldn’t be falling into a trap that suggests only those with a college degree have the skill or the experience to do the job.  So, let’s look at how we redefine and perhaps even reorder. 
    And, in fact, I’m going to start with federal jobs, and then I’m going to challenge the private sector to do the same.  Let’s look at which of those jobs would benefit from a skilled, experienced worker who perhaps went through an apprenticeship program — not a four-year college, but still had a four-year degree, in essence.
         So, these are the kinds of things that are about seeing the opportunity of this moment and investing in it.
         I’ll tell you — and I know this is a controversial topic for many of us — I love Gen Z.  (Laughter.)  Because we have Gen Zs in our lives.  We have kids who are Gen Zs.  It can be complicated, I know.  I love Gen Z.
         These young leaders are so — they’re clear-eyed.  You know, they’ve only known the climate crisis.  They’ve only known active shooter drills.  I mean, we had fire drills.  Not — not our kids, right?
         But they also — they’re — they’re so wonderfully impatient — (laughter) — ri- — no, really, that’s good.  That’s good.  They are ready to get in there.  Let’s invest in them.  Let —
         So, for example, one of my — one piece of my opportunity economy is we got to deal with the reality of where we are right now.  The American dream, for previous generations, was something that people could kind of count on.  Not so much anymore, in terms of homeownership.  We have a housing shortage in America.  We have a supply shortage.
         So, part of my plan is, hey, let’s be clear-eyed about this moment.  Let’s invest in the future.  And as a — a devout public servant, I also know the limitations of government.  I want to work with the private sector.  I have, in my career.  The skills, the breadth, the depth of — of value in those active partnerships benefit us all.
         So, part of my plan for housing is to actively partner with building developers, with homebuilders to create tax credits to increase the supply of housing in America.  My estimate is — I think we can actually do it — by 3 million by the end of my first term.
         Part of my approach that is about a new generation, potentially, of leadership and certainly a different approach: Most of my career was not spent in Washington, D.C.  I say that with pride.  (Laughter.) 
         In that, you know, most of my career was spent as a prosecutor, but I — making decisions that had a direct impact on people’s lives.  You know, I learned at a very young age, as a prosecutor, that the things that I would do with the swipe of my pen could result in someone having their liberty or not.  
         When I was attorney general of California — which is, you know, by estimates, the fifth-largest economy in the world — I was acutely aware the words I spoke could move markets. 
         I like getting things done.  And part of my approach, which is, I think, about a new generation of leadership, is: Let’s cut through the red tape.  Let’s cut through the bureaucracy while still knowing the virtues of the work that we can do in the public sector, be it public education, public health, public safety.
         MS. LONGWELL:  This is a perfect segue into our first audience question, which is going to come from Alexandra Miller from Delaware County.  Main section, right — right there. 
         Hi, Alexandra. 
         Q    Hello.  Hello, Madam Vice President and Representative Cheney.
         MS. CHENEY:  Hi there.
         THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Hi.
         Q    Thank you for taking my question today.  My name is Alex.  I have a 7-year-old son and a wonderful 72-year-old mother who is suffering from dementia and requires full-time care. 
         My son is in second grade, my mother is in a nursing home, and I work full time.  The costs of childcare and of eldercare are staggering.  But simultaneously, professionals that help care for both our children and our elders are generally underpaid, which makes it difficult for them to support their own families and do the jobs that they need to do. 
         How do you propose to help bridge this gap, making both child- and eldercare more affordable for hardworking families and also retaining and attracting quality talent for this — these essential jobs?
         THE VICE PRESIDENT:  So, first of all, you’re dealing with a lot.  You’re dealing with a lot, and I just wish you strength and support.  You are a part of what we call the “sandwich generation,” which are those parents and children who are right in the middle.  They are taking care of their young children and taking care of their parents as they age.  And it’s a lot.
         And so, I actually plan to address this in a substantial way because I actually bring a personal experience to it as well.  I took care of my mother when she was sick, and that work is the work of trying to cook something that they feel like eating — right? — trying to figure out which clothes will not irritate their skin and help them put on a sweater.  It’s about trying to figure out how you can say something that brings a smile to their face or makes them laugh.  It’s about dignity. 
         Meanwhile, you have a second-grader.  You’re trying to teach that kid how to read — (laughter) — spending time with them, reminding them they are special and can be anything. 
         And in the middle of all of that, if you are working or just to have a minute to breathe, it’s a lot.  It’s a lot. 
         So, what — the way that this plays out for many people is — is one of just a couple of ways.  One, if you have the good fortune of having enough extra money, you can hire somebody to come in.  And then, exactly as you said, you — knowing what you just shared with us about yourself — would pay them the value of their work.  Or someone in this position would have to basically spend down all their savings so they could qualify for Medicaid, which means they pretty much have to get rid of everything.  Or they have to quit their job, which means one less income in their household. 
         And this is a matter — this issue, for me, is a matter of dignity — yours, your parents, and the well-being of your child and you being able to do what you naturally want to do, and which — and the thing that we should value in our society, which is someone like you who is taking on the duty and the responsibility of all of that. 
         So, my plan is that instead of those scenarios I just mapped out, we will restructure it so that Medicare covers the cost of in-home health care for your parent so that they can be at home — (applause) — and you can then have the assistance with someone who can help prepare that meal, help them get dressed, and you can still give that baby of yours all the love that they deserve.  And you can have sanity in the process.  And everyone can have dignity. 
         And so, this is — this is my approach, which is let’s just look at this as an — let’s just come at it from common sense, by the way.  It’s just common sense.  And what makes — what is a — a commonsense, practical approach to doing this, because when you are able to be productive, we all benefit, by the way.  When that child is able to have a parent who is able to help them with their reading and remind that child that they are special, we are all going to benefit from that. 
         So, thank you for raising the subject.  (Applause.)  And you take care of yourself.
         MS. LONGWELL:  Okay.  Next we’re going to call on Ashley Scott, speaking of Gen Z — although I guess I shouldn’t assume I know what generation she’s from, but she is a student from Bucks County.  Hi.
         Q    Hi, Vice President Harris and Congresswoman Cheney.  My name is Ashley Scott.  I’m from Bucks County, Pennsylvania, and I am Gen Z.  I’m 22 years old.  (Laughter.)
         MS. LONGWELL:  Nailed it.
         THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Good for you.  (Laughs.)
         Q    So, thank you for that compliment.  But yeah, my question is about maternal health.  Specifically, in the United States, maternal mortality is devastating.  The rates are terrible.  And I was wondering if you have a plan to combat the crisis.
         THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Thank you, Ashley, and thank you for being here and your voice.  It’s a big issue.  So, we have the very, I think, shameful distinction of — of any wealthy nation having one of, if not the highest, rate of maternal mortality. 
         And I’ve studied this issue.  I worked on it was on — when I was in the United States Senate and as vice president.  And the fact is that 90 percent of them are preventable, which tells us we can do something about it, right? 
         And it is an issue — so, Black women are three to four times more likely to die in connection with childbirth; Native women are, like, twice as likely; rural women, one and a half times as likely. 
         One of the common threads that you will see in those demographic populations is a lack of appropriate prenatal care and then care during the term of their pregnancy and then postpartum care.  And we know that when that care is available, they are having a healthier and, by the way, happier experience.  And the long-term impact to all of us as a society, much less to that family, is immense. 
         And so, the work that we have been doing and the work I intend to do going forward is to address that, right?  So, for example, in rural America, the — the way that the system has been structured — the health care system has been structured is a lot of those hospitals and clinics have had to close because of the way we — we reimburse based on population size.  And as people are leaving rural America, then the hospitals and the clinics can’t afford the overhead. 
         I’m oversimplifying but just to make the point.  So, we need to address that in terms of how we’re structuring, how we create incentives and — and give the resources to those health care facilities, be they clinics or hospitals. 
         The other piece that we have to do is really just talk more about the issue around also how, in the health care system, we are treating women and are we taking women seriously when they talk about their health care concerns. 
         So, again, personal experience, my mother had two goals in her life: to raise her two daughters, my sister and I, and to end breast cancer.  My mother was a breast cancer researcher.  And she was so passionate about women’s health care, and I remember it as a young girl and throughout my life. 
         And we still have a lot of work to do to make sure that when she walks into that clinic, that doctor’s office, that hospital, that when — that she’s taken seriously.  And — and that’s also about what we do in terms of training within the profession.  It’s also about what we do in terms of public education to get information to women so that they know that they are not just complaining and they should not suppress or subordinate what their concerns might be about themselves because they’re taking care of everybody else. 
         So, there’s a lot of work to do.  And, of course, there’s a connection between this and what we need to do since the Dobbs decision came down, when we are looking at — I’ve met with a lot of, in particular, OB-GYNs who are concerned that there are kids going through — excuse me, young people going through their medical school who are now feeling deterred from engaging in reproductive health work. 
         And reproductive health work is vast.  It is not only about abortion; it is about a whole array of care.  And we want to make sure that we’re not creating disincentives for people to go into that very, very important profession. 
         And then we also want to make sure that we are, in the whole issue of reproductive care, not suggesting to women or the people who love them that they should be judged, because there is that also when you’re talking about reproductive care, where women sometimes are made to feel or do feel embarrassed to talk about their needs as it relates to their reproductive health.
         And then, of course, I feel very strongly the government should not be telling any woman what to do with her body.  (Applause.)  (Laughs.)  And when Congress passes a law reinstating the reproductive freedoms of women, I will gladly and proudly sign it into law, because I strongly believe one does not have to give up or abandon their own faith or beliefs to agree that — not the government telling her what to do.  If she chooses, she will consult with her priest, her pastor, her rabbi, her imam, but not the government. 
         We’ve seen too much harm — real harm — happen to women and the people who love them around our country since that decision came down, including women who have died.  And I don’t think that most people who — before the Dobbs decision came down — who had strong opinions about this — I don’t think most people intended that the harm that we’ve seen would have actually happened.
         MS. CHENEY:  Can I add to this just to — because I — I think it’s such an important point.  And I think there are many of us around the country who have been pro-life but who have watched what’s going on in our states since the Dobbs decision and have watched state legislatures put in place laws that are resulting in women not getting the care they need. 
         And so, I think this — this is not an issue that we’re seeing break down across party lines —
         THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Right.
         MS. CHENEY:  — but I think we’re seeing people come together to say what has happened to women, when women are facing situations where they can’t get the care they need — where in places like Texas, for example, the attorney general is talking about suing — is suing to get access to women’s medical records — that’s not sustainable for us as — as a country, and — and it has to change.  (Applause.)
         THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Yeah.  Yeah.
         MS. LONGWELL:  So, as we come close to time here, I want to ask you both kind of a final question.  You know, I — I watch the — the conversation in the country and the way that the media covers this election, and it’s often about the race: Who’s up in a poll?  Who’s down in a poll?  And I — I don’t always feel like we’re talking about the stakes enough. 
         And Liz Cheney would not be here if she didn’t think that the stakes were very high.  And frankly, the Republicans wouldn’t be so angry at you if they didn’t think you were an effective surrogate as somebody speaking about the stakes.  (Applause.)
         THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Some Republicans.  Some Republicans.
         MS. LONGWELL:  Some Republicans.  Some Republicans.  #NotAllRepublicans.  (Laughter.)
         THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Because I’ve seen a lot of Republicans — just I’ve seen it and I know it happens — who thank her constantly. 
         MS. LONGWELL:  I — I know it.
         THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Yeah.  Yeah.
         MS. LONGWELL:  I know it.
         MS. CHENEY:  They’re going to vote the right way on November 5th. 
         MS. LONGWELL:  That’s right.
         MS. CHENEY:  They might not think public about it, but — but they’ll do what — what they know is right.  (Applause.)
         THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Yeah.  I agree.  I agree.  I agree.
         MS. LONGWELL:  But just to close and — and maybe starting with you, Congresswoman, so you can have the last word.  Talk to me and all of us about the stakes.  Many people in the room here are undecided voters.  What’s — what’s kind of the last pitch that you would make about why this election is so important and why you believe they should vote for the vice president here?
         MS. CHENEY:  Well, I think that in this election, and especially here in Pennsylvania, we have the opportunity to tell the whole world who we are.  And we have the chance to say, you know, we’re — we’re going to reject cruelty.  We’re going to reject the kind of vile vitriol that we’ve seen from Donald Trump.  We’re going to reject the misogyny that we’ve seen from Donald Trump and J.D. Vance.  (Applause.) 
         THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Right.
         MS. CHENEY:  And we have the chance in this race to elect somebody who you know is going to defend the rule of law.  You know Vice President Harris is going to defend our Constitution. 
         We have the chance to remind people that we are a good country.  We are a good and honorable people.  We are a great nation. 
         And — and in this race, we have the opportunity to vote for and support somebody you can count on. 
         We’re not always going to agree, but I know Vice President Harris will always do what she believes is right for this country.  She has a sincere heart, and that’s why I’m honored to be here and supporting her in this race.  (Applause.)
         THE VICE PRESIDENT:  I mean, I — exactly.  The — listen, so, in my career as a prosecutor — you’ve heard me say this — I — I never, ever asked a victim or a witness, “Are you a Republican or a Democrat?”  Never.  It wouldn’t have even occurred to me to ask them.  I did, every time, ask, “Are you okay?”
         And I — you know, and I feel very strongly that — for example, in — on the issue of partisanship, yes, we’re going to have disagreements, but I actively invite good ideas from wherever they come.  That’s why I’m going to have a Republican in my Cabinet, by the way — (applause) — because I want good ideas.
         And, by the way, I know it is in our best interest as a nation, in our — the interest of our strength and our future as a nation.  We need a healthy two-party system.  We need a healthy two-party system.  (Applause.)
         We need to be able to have these good, intense debates about issues that are grounded in fact.  (Laughter.)  How about that?
         MS. CHENEY:  Imagine.
    .
         THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Let’s start there.  (Laughs.)  (Applause.)
         Wow.  Can you believe that’s an applause line?  (Laughter.) 
         Oy.  But, you know, it’s — (laughter) — it’s — 
         We have in our grasp in these next 13 days — 13 days, we are — or 15 days, excuse me.  I — I’m just jumping ahead.  (Laughter.)  In these next 15 days, we have in our grasp the ability to determine the course of our country. 
         You know, every election, we’ve said, “This is the one.”  This is the one.  This truly is the one. 
         I mean, to the congresswoman’s point, the former chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff referred to Donald Trump as being “fascist to the core.”  And no one would ever accuse the former chairman of being partisan in any way.  The people who know him best — from the former chief of staff; Defense secretaries, two of them; national security advisor to the former vice president.
         And so, we have in — in our grasp — because we still have a democracy.  As the saying goes, as long as we hold on to it, we still have a democracy, which means in a democracy — and here’s the beauty of it — we each have the power to make a decision about the future of our country through our vote.
         And my request, then, of each of you who have spent time out of your busy lives to be here — and I thank you for that — is please just help us get the word out to your neighbors and friends and family members to just remind them of what is at stake and this conversation. 
         I ask for your vote.  I ask for their votes.  And I promise to be a president for all Americans.  I promise and pledge that.  (Applause.)
         MS. LONGWELL:  All right, everyone.  Congresswoman Cheney and Vice President Kamala Harris.  Thank you so much. 
         Yes, let’s give them another round of applause.  That was wonderful.  (Applause.)
         Thank you so much.
         THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Thank you.  Thank you.
         MS. LONGWELL:  Thank you.  (Applause.)

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: State of Alaska and FEMA Announce FEMA Assistance Now Available for Flooding Survivors

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: State of Alaska and FEMA Announce FEMA Assistance Now Available for Flooding Survivors

    State of Alaska and FEMA Announce FEMA Assistance Now Available for Flooding Survivors

    ANCHORAGE, Alaska – FEMA Individual Assistance is now available for residents in the City and Borough of Juneau affected by the flooding that occurred August 5-6, 2024. Assistance may include funds for home repairs, temporary rental assistance, damaged vehicles and essential personal property, loss of subsistence items, as well as medical, dental, and funeral expenses caused by the disaster.

    FEMA assistance is unable to duplicate benefits offered through insurance, state programs, or other programs. But if your losses or damage go beyond disaster assistance available from other sources – or include items or categories not covered by other assistance – you may be eligible for additional funds from FEMA. Even if you have already registered for the State of Alaska’s disaster assistance program, you must also register with FEMA to determine if you may be eligible to receive additional funds through FEMA. 

    • Residents are encouraged to apply for FEMA assistance by calling the FEMA Region 10 Call Center at 866-342-1699 between 7 a.m.-4 p.m. AKT, Monday through Friday and 11 a.m.-4 p.m. AKT, Saturday. The FEMA Region 10 Call Center has staff trained to answer Alaska-specific questions. You can also apply by visiting disasterassistance.gov or using the FEMA mobile app.
    • If a reasonable accommodation – such as language translation or interpretation, mobility assistance, or sign language interpretation is needed – email FEMA-language-access-request@fema.dhs.gov. You can also notify FEMA staff through the FEMA Region 10 Call Center Helpline.

    The U.S. Small Business Administration also offers long-term disaster loans to businesses of all sizes, private nonprofit organizations, as well as homeowners and renters to pay for repair or replacement costs not fully compensated by insurance or other assistance. For more information, go to: http://www.sba.gov/disaster or call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955, or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

    In addition to Individual Assistance, designated areas in the City and Borough of Juneau have also been approved for Public Assistance which will reimburse the State of Alaska, on a cost-share basis, for emergency protective measures taken in response to the disaster. The State of Alaska has also been approved for additional funding, on a cost-share basis, for hazard mitigation measures.

    Additional designations may be made at a later date. 

    erika.suzuki

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: FEMA, SBA and USDA create Recovery Resource Guide for Local Business Owners

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: FEMA, SBA and USDA create Recovery Resource Guide for Local Business Owners

    FEMA, SBA and USDA create Recovery Resource Guide for Local Business Owners

    WASHINGTON – FEMA, the U.S. Small Business Administration and the U.S. Department of Agriculture have collaborated to create a guide to help local businesses affected by hurricanes Helene and Milton access recovery resources.

    The agencies created a one-stop-shop resource with information about federal support that is available to assist local businesses with their recovery. The guide—tailored for each affected state—is available on FEMA’s website at the links below:

    Many local business owners are also disaster survivors. This means they’re dealing with two separate recoveries, one for their household and another for their business.

    Recovery for local businesses after events like Helene and Milton may seem daunting. FEMA encourages chambers of commerce and other civic organizations to share this guide to help local businesses recover.
    Below are examples of the resources available to local businesses and their owners:

    • FEMA grants to make home repairs.
    • Low interest disaster loans from the SBA to repair homes and businesses. Business owners may also qualify for loans for economic injury.
    • Disaster Recovery Centers where business owners and survivors can meet representatives from various federal agencies who may be able to help. Centers are open in every state affected by Helene and Milton.
    • SBA Business Physical Disaster Loans. The SBA provides long-term low interest loans up to $2 million to cover disaster losses not fully covered by insurance.  
    • SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loans. The SBA provides long-term low interest loans up to $2 million for working capital to help small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, and most private nonprofit organizations impacted by a disaster meet their ordinary and necessary financial obligations until normal operations resume.  
    • Livestock indemnity. The USDA provides benefits to livestock owners and contract growers for livestock deaths. 
    • Emergency loans. The USDA provides loans to help producers recover from production and physical losses.

    A full list of more than 70 resources from 17 federal agencies is available on disasterassistance.gov.

    President Biden has declared a major disaster for six states affected by Helene—Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia—and Florida for Milton.

    FEMA reminds survivors affected by hurricanes Helene or Milton that they can apply for FEMA assistance in four ways: online at disasterassistance.gov, on the FEMA App, calling 800-621-3362, or in person at a local Disaster Recovery Center.

    erika.suzuki

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: S. 2086, Sea Turtle Rescue Assistance and Rehabilitation Act of 2023

    Source: US Congressional Budget Office

    S. 2086 would authorize the appropriation of $5 million annually for fiscal years 2025 through 2030 for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for grants to rescue and rehabilitate stranded marine turtles. Those grants would support marine turtle rescue and recovery, data collection, research; and the operating costs for research and rehabilitation facilities. In 2024, NOAA allocated $3 million for those activities.

    S. 2086 also would authorize the appropriation of $500,000 annually for fiscal years 2025 through 2030 for each of two interest-bearing trust funds. Under current law, one of those funds, the Joseph R. Geraci Marine Mammal Rescue and Rapid Response Fund is authorized to be appropriated $500,000 annually through 2028. Therefore, CBO estimates the bill would authorize the appropriation of an additional $4 million over the 2025-2030 period for the two funds.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: H.R. 9489, Advisory Committee on the Records of Congress Sunset Act of 2024

    Source: US Congressional Budget Office

    H.R. 9489 would eliminate the Advisory Committee on the Records of Congress and instead require the National Archive and Records Administration (NARA) to report annually on the management and preservation of Congressional records to the Clerk of the House of Representatives, the Secretary of the Senate, and the Archivist of the United States. 

    Using information from NARA and the General Services Administration, CBO estimates that any net changes in administrative costs under the bill would not be significant over the 2025-2029 period. Any related spending would be subject to the availability of appropriated funds.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: H.R. 9458, Enhancing Stakeholder Support and Outreach for Preparedness Grants Act

    Source: US Congressional Budget Office

    H.R. 9458 would require the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to expand technical assistance, outreach, training, and other support activities that the agency currently provides under the State Homeland Security Grant Program and the Urban Area Security Initiative. Both programs provide grants to state governments to address terrorism and other security threats by funding security operations, planning, training, equipment purchases, and other activities. 

    The bill would require FEMA to conduct annual surveys to gather feedback from state, local, and tribal governments about their needs, the grant process, and the effectiveness of the agency’s outreach efforts. FEMA would need to report to the Congress on its implementation of the bill within three years of enactment. Finally, H.R. 9458 would require the Government Accountability Office (GAO), within two years of enactment, to assess the effectiveness of FEMA’s assistance to interested parties throughout the lifecycle of grants made for both programs.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Kelly Announces Evergy to Invest More than $2B in Two New High-efficiency Natural Gas Plants – Governor of the State of Kansas

    Source: US State of Kansas

    HUTCHINSON  Governor Laura Kelly joined Evergy executives and legislative leaders today to announce that the company will invest more than $2 billion in building two new 705 megawatt (MW) combined-cycle natural gas plants in Kansas. Together, the new projects will provide more than 1,400 MW of dispatchable power.

    “Kansas is experiencing record economic growth, and Evergy is prepared to deliver the reliable, affordable, and sustainable energy needed.” Governor Laura Kelly said. “Evergy’s multi-billion-dollar investment brings direct value to the Hutchinson and Sumner County areas in jobs and tax dollars. It also ensures Kansas can continue to invite business growth that benefits the entire state.”

    The plant in Sumner County is expected to begin providing electricity in 2029, and the plant in Reno County is expected to be in service in 2030.

    “High-efficiency, modern natural gas plants will meet the electricity needs for our region’s growing economy. These plants also will bring good paying jobs and tax dollars to Kansas,” said David Campbell, Evergy chairman, president and chief executive officer. “Dispatchable natural gas is an important resource within Evergy’s growing and diverse energy portfolio, complementing our planned investment in wind and solar resources and supporting our commitment to affordable, reliable, and sustainable electricity.”

    During construction, more than 500 jobs are anticipated for each plant. After a 10-year exemption, each plant will provide more than $500 million in property tax revenues over its service life and will bring to the communities 20 to 40 skilled craft jobs that pay more than $90,000 annually.

    Since 2019, the Kelly administration has created 1,284 committed economic development projects worth more than $19.9 billion in capital investment and nearly 69,000 jobs.

    This spring, Governor Kelly signed House Bill 2527, a bipartisan bill that enhances Kansas policies to incentivize electric infrastructure investment, which is critical to ensuring Kansas has the infrastructure needed to meet the energy needs of Kansas citizens and businesses. This legislation makes Kansas more competitive for investment, increases opportunities for economic development, and ultimately saves Kansas ratepayers money on their electric bills.

    “We are pleased that a legislative policy we championed is helping ensure a strong energy future for the state of Kansas,” Speaker of the House Dan Hawkins said. “I look forward to seeing the benefits this brings in terms of jobs, economic growth, and energy security for our state for years to come.”

    “Kansans depend on reliable electricity each and every day to power their lives and their businesses,” Senate President Ty Masterson said. “These investments by a long-time Kansas energy company will make our state even more attractive to those wanting to live, work, and grow a business in our great state.”

    Photos from today’s announcement for media use are available below.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Landmarks Lit Celebrating New York Liberty’s WNBA Finals Win

    Source: US State of New York

    Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that New York State landmarks will be lit seafoam green and white on Oct. 21, 2024 to celebrate the New York Liberty winning the Women’s National Basketball Association championship. The Liberty defeated the Minnesota Lynx in Game 5 of a best-of-five series to claim the team’s first title in its 28-year history.

    “New York is a great sports state, and last night’s game not only earned the Liberty their first championship title, but also a championship title for the State of New York,” Governor Hochul said. “The thrill and anticipation, and the nail-biting victory created an electric night for all New Yorkers, and I am incredibly proud of each of the Liberty’s players as we continue to celebrate their well-deserved win.”

    The landmarks that will be lit in celebration include:

    • Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge
    • Kosciuszko Bridge
    • The H. Carl McCall SUNY Building
    • State Education Building
    • Alfred E. Smith State Office Building
    • One World Trade Center
    • Empire State Plaza
    • Niagara Falls
    • The “Franklin D. Roosevelt” Mid-Hudson Bridge
    • Albany International Airport Gateway
    • MTA LIRR – East End Gateway at Penn Station
    • Fairport Lift Bridge over the Erie Canal
    • Moynihan Train Hall
    • Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park

    New York Liberty claimed its first WNBA championship title at home in Brooklyn’s Barclays Center on Oct. 20, 2024 during its 19th playoff appearance in franchise history. The Minnesota Lynx led by two points in the waning seconds of Game 5, but with 5.2 seconds left, a shooting foul called on Alanna Smith of the Lynx led to two successful free throw attempts by the Liberty’s all-WNBA and two-time MVP forward Breanna Stewart, tying the game at 60. In overtime, the New York Liberty came out on top, sealing their championship run with a 67-62 win over the Lynx in a winner-take-all Game 5.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Video: Veterans and Caregiver Give Cyber Safety Advice

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    Hear directly from fellow Veterans and a caregiver who face the same online safety challenges as all Veterans do every day, and how they maneuver through to keep themselves and their families safe. They tell personal stories of combatting cyber threats and keeping Veteran friends and families safe from online predators. Listen to their compelling personal stories and important advice. This short video gives top tips for the Veteran community on how to stay safe online. Together, let’s Secure Our World. For more about VA digital tools for the Veteran community, visit

    Home


    .
    #Veterans
    #cybersecurity
    #onlinesafety

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qe8tpQyH8iI

    MIL OSI Video

  • MIL-OSI Video: Saving Lives by Intercepting Human Traffickers – Body Worn Camera POV | CBP

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    On the night of May 24, 2023, at approximately 10:15 p.m., a U.S. Border Patrol (USBP) agent spotted a suspicious vehicle—a blue Chevrolet Silverado—on U.S. Highway 281 in Texas.

    Upon questioning, the driver claimed the truck was overheating, but a loud noise from the truck’s toolbox told a different story. A search revealed a loaded pistol on the driver, raising tensions.

    Further inspection uncovered three individuals dangerously crammed inside the toolbox, hidden beneath a blue tarp. One of the individuals was in critical condition, suffering from heat exhaustion and lack of air.

    Instagram ➤ https://instagram.com/CBPgov
    Facebook ➤ https://facebook.com/CBPgov
    Twitter ➤ https://twitter.com/CBP
    Official Website ➤ https://www.cbp.gov

    #cbp
    #smugglers
    #rescue
    #lawenforcement

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7zzu4hUfvnU

    MIL OSI Video