Category: Business

MIL-OSI Security: Jefferson City Man Sentenced for $26 Million Bank Fraud Scheme

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – A Jefferson City, Mo. man was sentenced in federal court today for a multi-million dollar bank fraud scheme that included fraudulent Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans for four businesses.

Tod Ray Keilholz, 61, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Roseann A. Ketchmark to a total sentence of 12 years in federal prison without parole.

On March 28, 2024, Keilholz pleaded guilty to one count of bank fraud, one count of money laundering, and one count of aggravated identity theft.

Keilholz was the sole owner of TRK Construction, LLC, TRK Valpo, LLC, TL Builders, LLC, and Project Design, LLC.

By pleading guilty, Keilholz admitted that he engaged in a bank fraud scheme from Jan. 1, 2018, to Jan. 7, 2021.

Prior to the bank fraud scheme, Keilholz obtained three business loans totaling $3,526,771 from Hawthorn Bank between Aug. 31, 2017, and Sept. 21, 2018. One of these loans financed the purchase of property in Valparaiso, Indiana. As Keilholz’s businesses failed, these loans fell into default and sub-contractors sued him for unpaid invoices during 2019 and 2020. In February 2020, Hawthorn Bank initiated foreclosure proceedings. Keilholz delayed the foreclosure proceedings and paid off these loans and other past due debts with fraudulent PPP loans.

The CARES Act established several new temporary programs and provided for the expansion of others to address the COVID-19 pandemic. Among these programs, the PPP authorized forgivable loans, guaranteed by the Small Business Administration, to small businesses to retain workers and maintain payroll, make mortgage interest payments, lease payments, and utility payments.

Keilholz received a total of $12,430,932 in PPP loans for his four businesses. In each of those loan applications, Keilholz admitted, he failed to disclose his ownership in the other three businesses, and made materially false and fraudulent claims in the loan applications and supporting documentation. Keilholz falsely stated the businesses were in operation on Feb. 15, 2020, and eligible for PPP loans. He inflated the income of those businesses and claimed payrolls for employees who did not exist or no longer worked for him. Additionally, Keilholz applied for a $7,818,705 PPP loan for TRK Valpo but the loan was denied by the bank.

Keilholz received a $1,706,260 PPP loan for TRK Construction, a $3,618,815 PPP loan for TL Builders, a $3,903,857 PPP loan for Project Design, and a $3,202,000 PPP loan for TRK Valpo.

Keilholz admitted that he used PPP loan proceeds for unauthorized purposes other than legitimate payroll, lease and mortgage interest, and utilities as required by the PPP. Keilholz, through TRK Construction, had accrued substantial and delinquent indebtedness to a number of lenders, and all or part of these debts were satisfied by PPP loan proceeds.

The conviction for aggravated identity theft is related to Keilholz’s use of a former TRK Construction employee whose name and Social Security number were used without his knowledge or authorization on wage reports in connection with a fraudulent PPP loan application for TRK Valpo.

Under the terms of his plea agreement, Keilholz must forfeit to the government any property involved in, or derived from the proceeds of his bank fraud scheme, including a money judgment of $12,430,932, two properties in Jefferson City, one property in Valparaiso, one property in La Porte, Ind., four vehicles (a 2020 Chevrolet Silverado, two 2021 Chevrolet Silverados, and a 2019 BMW X5), a 2020 John Deer ZTrak, a 2020 John Deere Tractor, a Kubota Compact Track Loader, a Gents 43mm IWC Schaffhausen Perpetual Chronograph wristwatch, two Gents stainless steel Rolex Sea-Dweller self-winding automatic diver’s watches, and a Gents Citizen Eco-Drive Radio-controlled world time self-winding automatic watch with sapphire crystal.

This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael S. Oliver. It was investigated by the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System, Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, Office of Inspector General; the Small Business Administration, Office of Inspector General; the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration; the FBI; and IRS-Criminal Investigation.

MIL Security OSI –

January 24, 2025

MIL-OSI USA: FEMA Extends Renewal Period for Flood Insurance Policyholders in Florida Affected by Hurricane Milton

Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

Headline: FEMA Extends Renewal Period for Flood Insurance Policyholders in Florida Affected by Hurricane Milton

FEMA Extends Renewal Period for Flood Insurance Policyholders in Florida Affected by Hurricane Milton

Extension follows grace period announcement last week for seven states affected by Helene

WASHINGTON – While renewal dates have passed for some National Flood Insurance Program policyholders in Florida who were affected by Hurricane Milton, these policyholders may be able to take steps that will renew their policy and receive coverage for flood damage.

Certain NFIP policyholders in Florida affected by Hurricane Milton now have additional time to renew their policies without a lapse in coverage. These policyholders now have until Dec. 10, 2024 to renew their policies. This is a significant extension from the standard 30-day renewal grace period.

“I’m sensitive to the fact that our policyholders are dealing with many obstacles during this period of extensive recovery in the wake of Hurricane Milton,” said Jeff Jackson, the interim Senior Executive of the NFIP. “Extending the grace period for policy renewals is one way to show our customer that we care about what they’re going through.”

Policyholders should be sure to ask their insurance agent or company about advance claims payments to help start their recovery. Advance payments may be available of up to $20,000 prior to a visit from an adjuster.

FEMA previously announced an extended grace period for policyholders in seven states affected by Helene, including Florida. Due to Hurricane Milton, this grace period will be extended for Florida policyholders based on the below schedule.

If the policy term ended on:	The grace period would have ended:	But now runs until:
Aug. 28, 2024	Sept. 26, 2024	Dec. 10, 2024
Sept. 26, 2024	Oct. 25, 2024	Dec. 10, 2024
Oct. 15, 2024	Nov. 13, 2024	Dec. 10, 2024
Nov. 1, 2024	Nov. 30, 2024	Dec. 10, 2024
Nov. 15, 2024	Dec. 14, 2024	Dec. 14, 2024

Policyholders whose NFIP policy renewal date is within this range should contact their agent or insurance company.

For example, if the original policy expiration date was Aug. 28, 2024, the policy may be renewed on or before Dec. 10, 2024. Holders of active policies can file claims for damage received from Milton if premium is paid.

Other Actions to Help Policyholders

The NFIP has extended the proof of loss requirement for policyholders who suffered flood damage from Hurricane Milton from the standard 60 days to 120 days from the date of loss.

The NFIP also authorized its Write Your Own insurance company partners and the NFIP Direct to pay claims based on the adjuster’s report without requiring policyholders to sign a proof of loss. When a policyholder seeks additional payment for any reason or disagrees with the adjuster report, they may still submit a signed proof of loss to the insurer along with supporting documentation. This can include a contractor’s estimate, bills, receipts, photographs and other related documents.

Anyone affected by Milton who has an NFIP flood insurance policy and has suffered flood damage should begin filing their claim now. Evacuated policyholders can still start their claim and provide specifics later once local officials say it’s safe to return home.

Policyholders who wish to take advantage of the grace period should contact their agent or insurance company. Those who don’t have their insurance agent or company’s contact information should call 877-336-2627 for assistance.

FEMA also encourages NFIP policyholders affected by Milton to apply for federal disaster assistance. The three ways to apply are visiting disasterassistance.gov, calling 800-621-3362 or using the FEMA App. Survivors may receive funds to help with essential items like food, water, baby formula and other emergency supplies. Funds may also be available to repair storm-related damage to homes and personal property, as well as assistance to find a temporary place to stay.

To learn more about how to file a flood insurance claim visit floodsmart.gov.

amy.ashbridge
Thu, 10/17/2024 – 21:36

MIL OSI USA News –

January 24, 2025

MIL-OSI USA: Klobuchar Completes Visits to All 87 Counties in 2024

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn)

MINNESOTA – With stops today in three remaining counties: Aitkin (American Peat Manufacturing); Carlton (local airport), and Kanabec (Lakes & Pines Community Action Council), U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar has once again visited every one of Minnesota’s 87 counties in one year.

“The best way for me to do my job is by listening to the people of Minnesota and getting things done for them,” said Klobuchar. “That’s why every year I meet with Minnesotans all over our state and discuss what we can get done together. From expanding child care and housing to supporting local businesses, I’m committed to taking action on the issues that matter most.”

Today, Klobuchar toured American Peat Technology in Aitkin and then went to the Cloquet Airport in Carlton County which is developing a new storage hanger thanks to federal funding. Klobuchar ended the day in Mora and visited the Lakes and Pines Community Action Council.

This year, Klobuchar’s stops included:

1. Aitkin
• Toured American Peat Technology and met with their leadership team.

2. Anoka
• Gave remarks at the USA Cup Opening Ceremony in Blaine.
• Attended the 43rd annual Game Fair and discussed conservation policy with Ron Schara.
• Participated in Coon Rapids 4th of July Festivities.
• Attended the Blaine Festival.

3. Becker
• Led a child care discussion and toured the Boys & Girls Club of Detroit Lakes LEAP Preschool.

4. Beltrami
• Led a breakfast discussion with Bemidji City and Beltrami county and tribal leaders.
• Spoke at the dedication ceremony of the new Bemidji Veterans Home, toured it with veterans, and met with Red Lake Band Members.

5. Benton
• Toured SNX Technologies Inc. and met with their leadership.

6. Big Stone
• Discussed agriculture with local farmers while touring Anne Schwagerl’s farm.

7. Blue Earth
• Visited Mankato in the aftermath of severe flooding with Mankato mayor and Representative Finstad.
• Met with family and friends of Sergeant Cade Wolfe.

8. Brown
• Attended the community celebration at the Pheasant Opener in Sleepy Eye and spoke at the Pheasants Forever land dedication.
• Toured the New Ulm Airport’s recent upgrades and met with local leaders.

9. Carlton
• Toured the new Cloquet airport hangar with airport leadership and the Cloquet mayor.

10. Carver
• Led a discussion with the City of Chaska mayor and public safety leadership about their Emergency Operations Center project.
• Toured the town of Carver with the mayor in the aftermath of severe flooding.
• Attended the Highway 212 Groundbreaking Ceremony.
• Spoke to veterans at the Chanhassen Memorial Day event.

11. Cass
• Led a community discussion with the Walker mayor and local business leaders.

12. Chippewa
• Spoke with veterans and toured the new Montevideo Veterans Home.

13. Chisago
• Discussed regional tourism and toured the Franconia Sculpture Park.

14. Clay
• Celebrated the launch of the federally funded Moorhead 11th Street Underpass project.
• Attended the Reimagine Romkey Park event.

15. Clearwater
• Toured TEAM Industries and met with their leadership.

16. Cook
• Visited the North Shore Winery and Coho Cafe.

17. Cottonwood
• Toured Red Rock Rural Water Treatment Center and visited with local leaders.

18. Crow Wing
• Met with the mayor and city leadership about the Highway 210 expansion in Brainerd.
• Toured the new YMCA child care center.

19. Dakota
• Gave remarks at the Kaposia Library opening in South Saint Paul.
• Met with Burnsville first responders.
• Attended the opening ceremony of the Veterans Memorial Greenway in Inver Grove Heights.
• Met with law enforcement and community leaders in Hastings to highlight the Cooper/Davis Act that requires social media to alert authorities when controlled substances are being distributed illicitly on their platforms.
• Attended an event in Inver Grove Heights to highlight the new Criminal Justice Network for Minnesota law enforcement.
• Led the Survivor March and delivered remarks at the Susan G. Komen 32nd Annual Race for the Cure in Eagan.

20. Dodge
• Met with the owner and toured Chaotic Good Brewery in Kasson.

21. Douglas
• Led a discussion at the Alexandria YMCA about their child care program.

22. Faribault
• Met with leadership and toured Winnebago Manufacturing in Blue Earth.

23. Fillmore
• Toured Harmony Enterprises manufacturing facility and their child care center.
• Toured the new Preston State Veterans Home and met with veterans.

24. Freeborn
• Led a discussion and toured the Freeborn/Mower Electric Cooperative in Albert Lea.

25. Goodhue
• Met with students and school leadership to hear about the Red Wing Flight Path workforce training program.
• Spoke at the 50th Anniversary Jaunt With Jim bike ride in Cannon Falls.

26. Grant
• Toured the West Central High School Greenhouse and the Central Lakes College’s mobile meat cutting trailer and met with FFA students and their instructors.

27. Hennepin
• Attended the annual MLK Breakfast.
• Delivered remarks at the Asia Mall Lunar New Year celebration in Bloomington.
• Delivered Remarks at the MN Newspaper Association Convention.
• Met with officers at the Minneapolis Second Precinct Station.
• Convened a meeting with the Metropolitan Airport Commission leadership to hear updates on aviation safety and passenger experience.
• Delivered remarks at the Stand with Ukraine Two Year Commemoration event.
• Spoke at the Annual Parkinson’s Foundation Walk in Plymouth.
• Delivered remarks at the Celebrating the Sistas Awards Ceremony and presented the Icon Award honoring Laysha Ward.
• Delivered remarks at the MN Ovarian Cancer Alliance Gala.
• Visited Woodlake Nature Center in Richfield and met with staff.
• Spoke at the 78th Annual Paralyzed Veterans of America National Convention.
• Participated in the groundbreaking event for the St. Louis Park Cedar Lake Road Reconstruction project.
• Spoke at the Annual Somali Independence Day Street Festival.
• Delivered remarks at the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation 75th Anniversary Gala.
• Toured the I-494 construction site and met with local project leaders in Bloomington.
• Attended the Minnesota Business Partnership Annual Dinner.
• Attended the Twin Cities Pride Parade and Festival in Minneapolis.
• Honored the Legendary Cornbread Harris at an event with his son Jimmy Jam.
• Attended Champlin Father Hennepin Festival.
• Convened a meeting with the Metropolitan Airport Commission leadership to hear updates on aviation safety and passenger experience.
• Attended the Charles Lindbergh Richfield Post Office Dedication Ceremony.
• Presented the Spirit of Hospitality Award at the Bloomington Travel and Tourism Diamond Service Awards Gala.
• Attended the Niron opening and met with local businesses and Shakopee Band investors.

28. Houston
• Led a discussion with leadership and toured the Houston County airport in Caledonia.

29. Hubbard
• Toured a workforce housing development and met with local leaders.

30. Isanti
• Toured the North Star Child and Family Advocacy Center in Braham.

31. Itasca
• Met with leadership and toured the KOOTASCA Child Care Hub.

32. Jackson
• Met with first responders to discuss the new EMS telemedicine ambulance in Jackson.

33. Kanabec
• Toured the Lakes and Pines Community Action Council and visited with leaders.

34. Kandiyohi
• Toured the Life Link III Air Base at Willmar Municipal Airport.
• Attended the four lane Highway 23 completion celebration.

35. Kittson
• Met with owners and toured Far North Distillery.

36. Koochiching
• Met with the team at the Voyageurs National Park Headquarters.

37. Lac qui Parle
• Toured PURIS Plant-Based Protein manufacturing facility and met with leadership.

38. Lake
• Visited the iconic Betty’s Pies in Two Harbors.

39. Lake of the Woods
• Met with county leadership about their new water safety equipment.

40. Le Sueur
• Led a discussion with the Le Sueur Sheriff and other local leaders and toured the department.
• Viewed the flood damage and met with leadership in Waterville about federal assistance.

41. Lincoln
• Led a discussion at Lyon-Lincoln Electric Co-Op with their leadership.

42. Lyon
• Visited the farm of Carolyn and Jonathan Olson in Cottonwood.

43. McLeod
• Participated in the Winsted Post Office Rededication Ceremony to James A. Rogers, Jr.

44. Mahnomen
• Toured the White Earth Nation College with Chairman Fairbanks and members of the Tribal Council.

45. Marshall
• Toured North Valley Health Center Community Hospital in Warren.

46. Martin
• Toured the CHS soybean processing facility in Fairmont.

47. Meeker
• Toured the Doosan Bobcat manufacturing plant and met with leadership in Litchfield.

48. Mille Lacs
• Met with the owner and enjoyed breakfast at the Bee Cafe in Milaca.

49. Morrison
• Delivered remarks at the Memorial Day program at the Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery in Little Falls.
• Met with the mayor and area leadership to discuss the Little Falls bridge project.

50. Mower
• Led a discussion and toured the Hormel Foods child care center in Austin.
• Attended the I-90 bridge project groundbreaking ceremony in Austin.

51. Murray
• Met with the owners and got a tour of Painted Prairie Vineyard in Currie.

52. Nicollet
• Toured KATO Engineering and met with leadership in North Mankato.
• Delivered remarks and presented the Purple Heart at a ceremony honoring Corporal Earl Meyer in St. Peter.

53. Nobles
• Met with CEDA and county officials to discuss child care projects and solutions in Worthington.
• Toured the Highway 59 federally funded street project with Worthington leadership.

54. Norman
• Convened a meeting with Norman County leadership to discuss the West Central Regional Water District project.

55. Olmsted
• Delivered remarks at the Minnesota Police and Peace Officers Association Annual Legislative Conference in Rochester.
• Attended the Memorial Day Rochester Honkers game.
• Toured the Mayo Clinic’s new Kellen building.
• Delivered remarks at the Soldier’s Field Aquatic Center improvements opening ceremony.
• Led a discussion with county leadership and law enforcement about efforts to combat illegal fentanyl use in Rochester.

56. Otter Tail
• Met with leadership from Pioneer Kids Child Care and toured the facility in Fergus Falls with Fergus Falls Chamber of Commerce members.

57. Pennington
• Visited Northern Woodwork Inc. in Thief River Falls.
• Met with city and business leadership at Rivers and Rails Brewing Company.

58. Pine
• Toured Pine Technical & Community College and met with leadership.

59. Pipestone
• Met with local leaders at the Pipestone Airport to discuss improvement plans.

60. Polk
• Met with child care and city leaders at the Prairie Pines Child Care Center in Fosston.

61. Pope
• Met with staff and toured Clyde Machines in Glenwood with the mayor and Pope County leadership.

62. Ramsey
• Toured PAR Systems in Shoreview.
• Delivered remarks at the St. Paul Firefighters Local 21 Installation celebration.
• Gave welcome remarks at the Thai Songkran Festival opening ceremony.
• Delivered remarks at the Official State Memorial Day event at Fort Snelling.
• Spoke at the Hmong Freedom Festival in St. Paul.
• Hosted Secretary Becerra at the Episcopal Homes Senior Living Center to highlight Medicare drug pricing.
• Hosted tourism event at the Minnesota State Fair in Falcon Heights.
• Toured the Carter Work Project in St. Paul with Habitat for Humanity leadership.
• Delivered remarks at the Military Appreciation Day event at the MN State Fair.
• Spoke at the CLUES Fiesta Latina in St. Paul.
• Toured Delkor Systems in Arden Hills with Ex-Im Bank Director Herrnstadt.
• Led a round table discussion with Ex-Im Bank director and Minnesota business leaders.
• Delivered remarks at the St. Paul Kellogg-Third Street Bridge Construction Kick Off event.
• Attended the Serving Our Troops Event in support of military families.
• Attended St. Paul St. Patrick’s Day festivities.
• Toured the Neighborhood Development Center with Secretary Yellen

63. Red Lake
• Led a discussion about the Farm Bill with the Minnesota Wheat Growers Association and Minnesota Barley Growers Association.

64. Redwood
• Delivered remarks and met with agricultural leaders at Farmfest.

65. Renville
• Toured K&M Manufacturing in Renville and met with employees.

66. Rice
• Met local leaders and manufacturers to tour a planned child care facility in Faribault.
• Toured flood damage and met with leadership in Northfield.

67. Rock
• Toured the new child care center under construction in Luverne.

68. Roseau
• Attended annual Hockey Day Celebration activities in Warroad.

69. Saint Louis
• Toured flood damage in downtown Cook with the mayor and local leaders.
• Toured the flash flood damage in Biwabik with the mayor and local leaders.
• Joined Duluth mayor to highlight the success of their flood mitigation projects.
• Visited the Blatnik Bridge to highlight its need for repair.
• Attended Fourth of July festivities in Aurora, Gilbert, Eveleth, Tower, and Ely.
• Presented a flag to the Ely mayor at Ely Memorial High School in commemoration of their 100th Anniversary Celebration.
• Attended Labor Day events in Duluth and Virginia.

70. Scott
• Met with Scott County Sheriff leadership, viewed the new rescue equipment, and toured the 911 Dispatch Center in Shakopee.

71. Sherburne
• Met with leadership of the Wave Youth Center in Big Lake to tour and discuss their expansion project for middle and high school-aged youth.

72. Sibley
• Toured the Heartland Ethanol Plant in Winthrop with company leadership.

73. Stearns
• Delivered remarks at the annual St. John’s Boys’ Choir Spring Gala in St. Cloud.
• Spoke at the St. Cloud VA Medical Center 100th Anniversary celebration.
• Toured the St. Cloud Coborn’s with business leadership.

74. Steele
• Convened a discussion with Owatonna High School staff and Chamber of Commerce leadership about their Youth Skills Training Program.

75. Stevens
• Met with the Chancellor of UMN Morris and toured the campus.

76. Swift
• Toured the Swift County Historical Museum in Benson and met with leadership.

77. Todd
• Met with company leadership of EnterpriseCP Manufacturing and toured the facility.

78. Traverse
• Led a discussion with Browns Valley mayor and fire chief to hear about fire department operations.

79. Wabasha
• Toured Pepin Manufacturing Inc. in Lake City.
• Spoke at the Governor’s Fishing Opener Kick-Off in Lake City.

80. Wadena
• Met with Central Lakes College leaders to discuss their Butchery Program and federal partnerships.

81. Waseca
• Met with staff and toured Winegar Manufacturing in Waseca.

82. Washington
• Spoke at the 1st Annual Momentous Music Festival with Brian Mueller in Woodbury, honoring Aimee Muller.
• Attended the Hugo Good Neighbors Day festivities.

83. Watonwan
• Visited the farm of Harold Wolle in St. James.

84. Wilkin
• Toured CHI St. Francis Health and met with leadership in Breckenridge.

85. Winona
• Visited local businesses in Winona with Chamber of Commerce leadership to discuss tourism.

86. Wright
• Attended the I-94 West Corridor Coalition Gap Project Groundbreaking Ceremony in Monticello which received federal funds.

87. Yellow Medicine
• Met with leadership and visited the Yellow Medicine County Historical Society and Museum.
• Walked the Dave Smiglewski Memorial Trail in Granite Falls with the Smiglewski Family.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-Evening Report: A sister’s last hope to save her brother from addiction – David Vincent Smith’s He Ain’t Heavy is a triumphant debut

Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Chris Thompson, Lecturer, Australian Catholic University

Bonsai Fims

So, on we go
His welfare is of my concern
No burden is he to bear
We’ll get there
For I know
He would not encumber me
He ain’t heavy, he’s my brother
– He Ain’t Heavy, He’s My Brother by The Hollies

Writer–Director David Vincent Smith’s reference to The Hollies’ 1969 hit as the title for his new film is not without irony.

Max (Sam Corlett) – drug-dependent and out of control – is clearly a crushing weight on his sister Jade (Leila George) and mother Bev (Greta Scacchi).

The opening scene of this compelling new Australian production throws us right into the chaos he visits upon them. The desperate, violent, off-camera shouts of abuse from Max as his sister sneaks past concerned neighbours and into their mother’s house are obviously nothing new.

Bev, seated at the kitchen table, shows none of the anxiety we see in Jade. Perhaps she’s beyond reacting to Max’s outbursts. Perhaps she looks past the ugly side of her son through eyes that see only with a mother’s love.

Jade, however, is at the end of her tether. Everything she’s tried has failed. She’s left with just one last desperate measure.

This desperate measure didn’t come to David Vincent Smith as a narrative conceit. It was much closer to home.

One night, Smith got a call from his mother who told him his own drug-addicted brother was outside their home. As he explains in the film’s press kit:

I could hear smashing windows in the background as he tried to claw his way inside. I was done. There had been many years of violence, emergency rooms and mental trauma […] my own life was suffering as a result […] what could I do? I had an idea – I could kidnap him. Take him out to the desert, throw away the car keys and resolve this once and for all.

Smith didn’t pursue that extreme thought in real life. Instead, it found its way onto the screen, first as a short “proof of concept” film – I’m Not Hurting You, which played at the 2019 Sydney Film Festival – and then as He Ain’t Heavy, his first feature film.

The kidnapping and withdrawal

Jade does indeed kidnap her brother. She sedates him and brings him to their dead grandparents’ home in the country, which Jade and Bev have been packing up in preparation to for its sale.

Here, we see Jade’s methodical preparation of the room where she will incarcerate Max, the food she will feed him, the posters and pamphlets that inform her how to manage a drug addict’s withdrawal.

The film follows Jade (Leila George), who has spent much of her life trying to bring her brother Max out of his drug addiction.
Bonsai Fims

The choice of the grandparents’ home is significant for our understanding of this fractured family. Here we find evidence that things weren’t always like this.

We see old photo albums of happier times, toys and games that are now just reminders of fun family visits, a guitar that was once part of Max’s promising singing career, the nearby waterhole where lazy days were spent, and pencil marks on the door jamb recording the siblings’ growth.

Perhaps the resonance of their better days will be as powerful as the enforced withdrawal in bringing Max back. But, of course, Jade’s best-laid plans don’t go as she might have hoped.

Sam Corlett, who plays Max, also plays the role of Leif Eriksson in the popular Netflix series Vikings: Valhalla.
Bonsai Fims

In many ways, Max’s drug addiction is what Alfred Hitchcock would have called a McGuffin – the story element you think the film is about, when in fact the film is about something else entirely.

In this case, that something else is love: the love Jade feels for her brother that leads to this extreme action, the love Bev feels for her son that makes her vulnerable to his unpredictable and violent behaviour, and the absence of love Max feels for himself – a void that sucks him into a self-destructive spiral.

He Ain’t Heavy is essentially a three-handed chamber piece that delivers a triumvirate of distinctive, grounded and well-delineated performances, each one serving a sharply written screenplay imbued with an authenticity that reflects Smith’s lived experience.

Bev (Greta Scacchi) feels a lot of lover for her son, which makes her vulnerable to his unpredictable and violent behaviour.
Bonsai Fims

A powerful portrait of familial love

Without giving any spoilers, there are some narrative conveniences along the way that might detract from a lesser film. In this case, however, they are easy to forgive, in favour of the powerful viewing experience they help deliver.

If only for the curiosity factor, it’s worth noting Leila George is also Greta Scacchi’s real-life daughter (her father is Vincent D’Onofrio). This obviously doesn’t hurt when it comes to casting for family resemblance. But this tidbit of trivia is quickly forgotten in the moments of each of their finely crafted, absorbing performances.

In Smith’s earlier short film version, we see a plaque on the grandparents’ kitchen wall with the following aphorism:

RECIPE FOR LIFE – pinch of persistence, dash of kindness, spoonful of laughter, heap of love.

This is a story about a family that has exhausted its persistence, and for whom laughter is something of the past. But Jade’s extreme action is really an act of kindness. Both she and Bev, in their own ways, are driven by that heap of love.

He Ain’t Heavy is a film that deserves the same heap of love from its audience.

The film serves a sharply written screenplay imbued with authenticity.
Bonsai Fims

He Ain’t Heavy is in select cinemas from October 17.

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

– ref. A sister’s last hope to save her brother from addiction – David Vincent Smith’s He Ain’t Heavy is a triumphant debut – https://theconversation.com/a-sisters-last-hope-to-save-her-brother-from-addiction-david-vincent-smiths-he-aint-heavy-is-a-triumphant-debut-237764

MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Volcano Watch — Potential long-term outcomes of recent intrusions in Kīlauea East Rift Zone

Source: US Geological Survey

Volcano Watch is a weekly article and activity update written by U.S. Geological Survey Hawaiian Volcano Observatory scientists and affiliates.

Chain of Craters within Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park before 1969, when several craters were partly or completely filled with lava. Now the Chain of Craters Road turns south, away from its pre-1969 route, between Pauahi and ʻAloʻi, a pit crater buried in 1969 by Maunaulu lava flows. The junction with the Hilina Pali Road is essentially at Devil’s Throat.

The eruption in and near Nāpau Crater on September 15–20 is an example of a brief eruption in this area. If a longer and larger eruption were to occur, such as at Maunaulu (1969-1974), most lava flows would head south from their vents because of the topography. Some, however, could be trapped within craters, as at Nāpau, partly or completely filling them.

This part of the rift zone is popularly known as the Chain of Craters. Geologically, all the craters are pit craters, which form solely by collapse of the ground surface without accompanying eruption at the site. Probably all the pit craters are younger than the 15^th century.

Before about 1900, 16 pit craters dimpled the surface from Luamanu to Nāpau. Some of the craters coalesced, so there are more craters than crater names; Hiʻiaka had two craters, Pauahi three; ʻAlae two, and Makaopuhi two. Another crater, Devil’s Throat, formed around 1900.

Beginning in the 1960s and continuing to the early 1980s, this area erupted numerous times. Seven craters were partly filled (Luamanu, Hiʻiaka, Pauahi, and Nāpau) or completely filled (Aloʻi, ʻAlae, and the deepest pit in Makaopuhi). Today, the upper East Rift Zone is defined by some to end at Maunaulu, a shield that grew in 1969-1974 between now-filled Aloʻi and ʻAlae Craters.

The Chain of Craters is the only section of the East Rift Zone and its submarine extension, the Puna Ridge, that contains pit craters. This probably relates to the proximity of the Chain of Craters to the summit of Kīlauea, where magma rises from the mantle. It stands to reason that such proximity leads to more intrusions than elsewhere along the rift zone. The infrequent lateral draining of such intrusions is the likely explanation of how pit craters form.

The recent intrusions along the Chain of Craters could have three very different outcomes. Repeated intrusions might spawn eruptions could bypass the craters completely, or partly or completely fill one or more craters. Another possibility is that underground draining of one of the intrusions could lead to formation of a new pit crater. One or more eruptions seem far more likely (such as the recent Nāpau eruption), but collapse to form a new pit crater happened at least 17 times in the past 550 years and so is not a rare occurrence.

History suggests another potential effect that could accompany continued intrusions in the East Rift Zone is earthquakes beneath the south flank of Kīlauea. Kīlauea volcano is always in a constant state of balance between extension of the south flank due to pressure beneath the summit of the volcano and intrusion of magma along the rift zones. At times, the flank becomes loaded like a spring and even the relatively small force of an intrusion can trigger an earthquake.

The largest earthquake beneath Kīlauea’s south flank happened in 1975. On November 29, 1975, a deadly magnitude 7.7 earthquake, the largest on the island since 1868, struck the south flank. It unleashed a tsunami that killed two campers and many horses at Halapē, and the south flank of Kīlauea moved several meters southward and downward. We don’t know what led directly to this earthquake, but following, as it did, about 15 years of repeated intrusions along the Chain of Craters, a relationship with these intrusions is a possible interpretation. Current conditions provide an excellent opportunity to better understand the generation of south flank earthquakes.

All of these extreme scenarios—a new pit crater or massive seaward movement of the south flank— are less likely than one or more eruptions. Continued close monitoring of the Chain of Craters may provide clues down the road.

A holistic, historically based approach to studying Kīlauea helps us appreciate what can happen in the long run. Evaluation of the past activity of the volcano, no matter how imperfect known, can influence our thoughts about what could happen. Even with this approach, though, we must remind ourselves that there are no facts about the future.

Volcano Activity Updates

Kīlauea is not erupting. Its USGS Volcano Alert level is ADVISORY.

Over the past week, about 30 earthquakes were located in Kīlauea summit region, and about 100 were located in the upper-to-middle East Rift Zone. Ground deformation rates have greatly decreased since the September 15-20 middle East Rift Zone eruption, but data show that magma is continuing to move at a low rate from the summit to the middle East Rift Zone. Future intrusive episodes and eruptions could occur with continued magma supply. The most recent measurement of sulfur dioxide (SO₂) emission rate at the summit was 60 tonnes per day on September 17, 2024, and SO₂ emissions were not detected at downwind of the eruption site on Monday, September 23.

Mauna Loa is not erupting. Its USGS Volcano Alert Level is at NORMAL.

No earthquakes were reported felt in the Hawaiian Islands during the past week.

HVO continues to closely monitor Kīlauea and Mauna Loa.

Please visit HVO’s website for past Volcano Watch articles, Kīlauea and Mauna Loa updates, volcano photos, maps, recent earthquake information, and more. Email questions to askHVO@usgs.gov.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI China: China boasts robust industrial ecosystem for intelligent connected vehicles: minister

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

China boasts robust industrial ecosystem for intelligent connected vehicles: minister

BEIJING, Oct. 17 — A comprehensive industrial system for China’s intelligent connected vehicle sector has basically taken shape, covering products and technologies such as basic chips, sensors, computing platforms and chassis control, Minister of Industry and Information Technology Jin Zhuanglong said Thursday.

Jin made the remarks during the opening ceremony of the 2024 World Intelligent Connected Vehicles Conference in Beijing.

China leads the world in human-machine interaction and is rapidly advancing toward breakthroughs in technologies like steer-by-wire and active suspension technologies, among others, the minister noted.

According to him, the country’s intelligent connected vehicle sector currently boasts nearly 400 “little giant” firms, or novel elites of small and medium-sized enterprises that are engaged in manufacturing, specialize in a niche market and hold cutting-edge technologies.

Five Chinese lidar companies have ranked among the global top ten in sales, while nine automotive manufacturers are piloting conditionally automated driving models, Jin said.

To support such rapid industrial development, more than 50 cities in China have designated over 32,000 kilometers of test routes for intelligent connected vehicles and upgraded about 10,000 kilometers of roads with smart technologies.

The 2024 World Intelligent Connected Vehicles Conference, running from Oct. 17 to 19, has attracted over 250 auto firms and institutions from home and abroad. More than 200 new technologies and products are expected to make their debut at the event.

MIL OSI China News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Virtual reality and wearable technology pilot to cut drug deaths
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

The government will fund research into wearable technology, virtual reality and artificial intelligence in a bid to support people with drug addictions.
Government funds research into wearable technology, virtual reality and artificial intelligence to support people with drug addictions and save lives

Projects include body-worn devices which alert emergency services if overdose is expected

11 projects across UK could be rolled out more widely if successful

Thousands of lives could be saved through the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and wearable technology designed to reduce drug deaths and improve outcomes.

The government has awarded £12 million to projects across the UK that are researching innovative technology to support people with addictions.

One of the chosen projects, called PneumoWave ALERT, pairs a chest-worn sensor that monitors breathing to a mobile device that sends out an immediate alert to nearby antidote carriers and emergency services if an overdose is detected, helping people get potentially life-saving treatment as soon as possible.

Another study will look at using virtual reality to help people overcome their triggers for cocaine addiction. People will be assessed using watch-like devices to determine which cues in their environment lead to a drug craving, by measuring physical changes to the body.

Virtual reality will then be used to create realistic situations to repeatedly expose people to triggers in a safe environment. Previous research shows cue exposure treatment (CET) can significantly reduce the level of craving and relapse among alcoholics, but it has not yet been fully explored for people experiencing a cocaine addiction until now.

Minister for Public Health and Prevention, Andrew Gwynne said:

Drug addiction devastates lives and rips apart families, and this government is committed to gripping this problem.

We’re determined to harness the full potential of cutting-edge technology to save thousands of lives across the country. I want the UK to lead the way in championing innovation to end the harmful effects of addiction.

The research is being funded through the Addiction Healthcare Goals programme, which is run by the Office for Life Sciences (OLS). Around £12 million has been awarded to 11 projects across eight organisations in the UK. The projects were selected as part of the Reducing Drug Deaths Challenge and the NIHR i4i Addiction: Innovation for Treatment and Recovery Awards, which are being run in partnership with the Scottish government and National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR).

The funding will also support research to improve the accessibility of the life-saving drug naloxone. Naloxone rapidly reverses heroin and opioid overdose but is typically available as an injection or nasal spray which have limitations and cannot always be used in time. Kings College London is looking into naloxone wafers which melt in the mouth and provide rapid access to this emergency medicine and can fit easily in a wallet or purse.

Several of the projects are based in Scotland which has the highest rate of drug deaths in Europe.

These include a wristband to monitor vital signs such as blood oxygen levels, heart rate and body temperature. If an overdose is suspected, the device, named “Saving Sam”, will send out an alert to a trusted contact. This research is being run by the University of Edinburgh and NHS Fife.

The technology being researched could be rolled out to more sites across the UK if successful. The projects support the government’s Health Mission – building an NHS fit for the future – by helping to embed a greater focus on prevention and supporting services.

It also helps establish the UK as a global leader for innovative treatments and technologies, supporting the UK’s Growth Mission – for sustained economic growth, good jobs and increased productivity across the country – by inspiring healthcare companies to invest in the UK, while supporting people back into stable work.

Science Minister Lord Vallance said:

The UK’s life sciences sector plays a critical role in finding new ways to tackle the biggest challenges facing healthcare, including the devastating impact of addiction. The Addiction Healthcare Goals Programme is testament to our commitment to bringing together researchers, clinicians, and innovators to create real change.

From wearable technology to AI-powered tools, these innovative projects highlight the power of collaboration in delivering life-saving treatments. By investing in these partnerships, we are tackling addiction head-on and ensuring that cutting-edge science reaches those who need it most, improving public health across the UK.

Professor Mike Lewis, NIHR’s Scientific Director for Innovation, said:

Innovation in managing addiction is needed to break the pattern of prison relapse and rebound and the wider impacts of addiction on society.

Through the NIHR i4i Addiction: Innovation for Treatment and Recovery Awards, successful projects have been awarded funding to develop approaches to improve treatment and recovery outcomes.

Interventions, including AI, that allow management in the community need this research to validate their potential so we can implement them at scale.

Professor Dame Anna Dominiczak, Chief Scientific Advisor for Health, Scottish Government, said:

Tackling drug-related deaths is a priority for the Scottish Government and NHS Scotland and we are committed to tackling these issues through targeted research, innovation and support.

As part of phase two of the Reducing Drug Deaths Innovation Competition, funding has been awarded to develop seven prototypes aimed at reducing drug deaths.

These innovative solutions include wearable sensors, digital monitoring and alert applications as well as novel antidote delivery systems.

By harnessing the expertise we have in Scotland and across the rest of the UK, we can continue to develop new technologies to drive prevention initiatives.

Professor Anne Lingford-Hughes, Chair of the Addiction Healthcare Goals, said:

New approaches to treat drug addiction and reduce drug related deaths, particularly from overdose, are urgently needed. The Addiction Healthcare Goals programme is pleased to fund promising innovations that have brought together partnerships between industry, academia and organisations involved in delivering treatment and care for those experiencing drug addictions.

Establishing such collaborations also enhances the UK’s research capacity and ability to deliver novel patient research. This lays firm foundations for the UK to accelerate the development and testing of effective innovations to use in routine care to save lives, reduce harms, and benefit society.

Notes to editors:

Further information on some of the projects is available below:

Reducing Drug Deaths Innovation Challenge

Pneumowave ALERT

PneumoWave ALERT is a remote monitoring platform designed to make opioid usage safer by detecting the onset of life-threatening respiratory problems caused by opioid-induced overdose. The platform consists of a discreet, chest-worn biosensor paired with a mobile device, which allows for the immediate alerting of nearby naloxone carriers and emergency medical services. The research involves conducting end-to-end monitoring, detection, and alerting in 200 high-risk patients residing in homeless accommodation, in collaboration with the University of Dundee, King’s College London, and Third Sector partners HumanKind, Thames Reach, and Hillcrest Futures.

NOMW Health

NOMW Health, in collaboration with Greater Glasgow and Clyde Innovation Hub and The University of Southampton, previously conducted a feasibility study on LifeSavr, an innovative wearable device aimed at addressing the opioid overdose crisis. The Scotland-based team is now advancing the development of LifeSavr to prepare it for consumer availability in the UK, Europe, and globally. LifeSavr features monitoring of oxygen saturation, heart rate, body movements and respiratory rate for accurate overdose detection. It is based on NASA research and uses a self-contained design that eliminates the need for a mobile phone. The device aims to reduce the burden on emergency services and long-term care.

Kings College London

Kings College London is developing rapid-dispersal naloxone wafers to improve the accessibility and portability of this life-saving emergency antidote medication. Naloxone rapidly reverses heroin/opioid overdose, but current forms (injection and nasal spray) have limitations, such as requiring healthy nasal passages and consistent carrying by users. The proposed naloxone wafers disintegrate within seconds and can easily fit into a wallet or purse, addressing the current low carriage rates which are around 15-20%.

EMoodie – Saving SAM System for Alert and Monitoring of Potential Overdoses

‘Saving SAM’ is an innovative, low-cost digital tool developed by eMoodie Limited to help prevent drug overdoses and save lives. The tool consists of a wristband that monitors vital signs such as blood oxygen levels, heart rate, body temperature, and movement patterns to detect potential overdose risks. If an overdose is suspected, the wristband sends an alert to the Saving SAM app on the user’s smartphone, alerting a trusted contact. The app also offers mental health support and well-being programs for people who use drugs. Co-created with people with lived experience, “Saving SAM” is an overdose detection tool that combines wearables, remote monitoring, artificial intelligence (AI), and a smartphone app with gamified digital therapeutics.

Mesox-Ltd

MESOX has developed a wearable patch of the antidotes Naloxone and Flumazenil for the rising number of drug deaths from mixed overdosing of opioids and benzodiazepines. The skin patch is designed for wide application by non-professionals in the community, avoiding the challenges of existing routes of administration and complexity of injectable antidotes. In the next phase of development on the programme, MESOX will work closely with NHS Fife and other sub-contractors to design acceptability studies with patients across all four UK nations.

Science & Engineering Applications Ltd (Scienap)

Scienap, in collaboration with ambulance services led by the Scottish Ambulance Service, has designed a low-cost alert and responder pathway to create effective responses to potentially fatal overdose events. The project includes a new Alert App for self-monitoring by drug users, automatically raising an alarm if they become unresponsive, and a Care & Respond App for trusted supporters to provide coordinated help, administer life-saving drugs, and be supported by emergency services when appropriate.

University of Glasgow

The University of Glasgow presents a significant advancement in wearable sensor technology for detecting and preventing overdoses. The soft sensor, designed for seamless body integration, provides real-time respiratory monitoring to identify early signs of overdose episodes. The team will test the usability and acceptability of the refined prototype with people with lived/living experience of substance use through an iterative co-design process supported by the West of Scotland NHS Innovation Hub.

NIHR i4i Addiction Innovation: Innovation for Treatment and Recovery Awards

Kings College London – is developing a Virtual Reality-enhanced cue exposure treatment integrated with a wearable device to address craving, prevent relapse and improve treatment outcomes of people with cocaine dependence.

A key challenge in helping people to recover for cocaine addiction (or dependence) is their craving for the drug that can be triggered by ‘cues’ in their environment, such as situations or objects, which remind them of the pleasurable effects of cocaine. This process is known as ‘classical conditioning’ and the aim of this study is to reduce the risk of relapse to cocaine through use of novel technologies to reduce craving. This research will test the ability of technology-enhanced CET to reduce craving and relapse to cocaine use, compared to people receiving usual care.

Another project led by Kings College London, The Prison Release Engagement Trial will refine and test an interactive smartphone app to improve Continuity of Care post-release for prisoners working to stay drug free.

For the full list of projects that have been successful in receiving funding across both competitions, please see the NIHR publications and the Scottish Government publications.

Further information

The Addiction Healthcare Goals is being delivered by the Office for Life Sciences (OLS) alongside the Dementia, Mental Health, Cancer and Obesity Healthcare Goals. The Addiction Healthcare Goals programme is working to make the UK a globally leading location for researchers and industry to develop, trial and deploy innovative treatments and technologies which will help people recover from drug and alcohol addictions, save lives, and benefit society.

Alongside funding innovative research, the Addiction Healthcare Goals programme is aiming to support the training of research leaders across the UK and is exploring ways to make better use of addiction healthcare data to enable researchers to develop better treatments. The programme has also been working with the James Lind Alliance to identify the key research priorities within the UK community and will be publishing this list in 2025 with the aim of influencing future research funding priorities.

The projects were selected as part of the Reducing Drug Deaths Challenge and the NIHR i4i Addiction: Innovation for Treatment and Recovery Awards, which were run in partnership with the Scottish government and National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR). The successful Reducing Drug Deaths projects builds on feasibility funding awarded through phase 1 of the Reducing Drugs Deaths Challenge last year.

The Addiction Healthcare Goals form a part of the Department of Health and Social Care’s ambition to deliver a world-class treatment and recovery system for people experiencing drug and alcohol addictions.

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Published 18 October 2024
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Natural Gas Producer Agrees to Settlement to Reduce Emissions in New Mexico

Source: US State of California

Settlement Includes $9.4M Civil Penalty and Compliance Measures that Will Result in Reduction of Over 113,000 Tons’ Worth of CO2 Pollution

The Justice Department, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and New Mexico Environment Department (NMED) today announced a settlement with Hilcorp Energy Company resolving Clean Air Act and New Mexico state law violations at the company’s oil and gas production operations in New Mexico.

Under the settlement, Hilcorp agreed to pay a civil penalty of $9.4 million for violations resulting from Hilcorp’s failure to reduce emissions during well completion operations. The civil penalty will be split between the U.S. and the State of New Mexico. In addition, the company must employ an EPA-approved third-party auditor to ensure compliance with all applicable Clean Air Act and New Mexico Air Quality Control Act requirements.

Hilcorp is further directed to account for the excess volatile organic compound (VOC) and methane emissions released through improper well completions by replacing, on a faster timeline than federal regulations require, old process control equipment with equipment that does not emit air pollution. This mitigation project will occur on Tribal lands of the Jicarilla Apache Nation Reservation, in Rio Arriba County, and on Navajo Nation Off-Reservation Trust Land in San Juan and Sandoval counties; all of these areas have potential environmental justice concerns.

The work that Hilcorp will do under this agreement will result in the equivalent of over 113,000 tons of reduced carbon dioxide emissions over the next three years, similar to the number of reductions achieved by taking 24,000 cars off the road for one year. The settlement will also eliminate nearly 583 tons of VOC emissions annually.

The case is the first to address violations of the Clean Air Act New Source Performance Standards covering well completions following hydraulic fracturing, commonly referred to as “fracking.”

“Hilcorp is a large, sophisticated natural gas producer and should know better than to violate Clean Air Act requirements to capture and control gas produced as a result of fracking,” said Assistant Attorney General Todd Kim of the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division. “We are committed to upholding the rule of law and holding industry accountable. Today’s settlement importantly includes commitments to make infrastructure upgrades that will result in significant reductions of methane and VOC emissions.”

“Oil and gas production results in significant air pollution, including emissions of methane that are one of the leading sources of near-term climate change, which makes today’s settlement with Hilcorp Energy a huge win for the environment and the planet,” said Assistant Administrator David M. Uhlmann of EPA’s Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance. “EPA is requiring Hilcorp to pay a $9.4 million penalty and make substantial investments in Clean Air Act compliance, which will reduce climate damaging emissions and improve air quality for all New Mexico residents, including communities with environmental justice concerns.”

“This settlement holds one of the San Juan Basin’s largest polluters accountable for their contribution to climate change and ozone pollution,” said Secretary James Kenney of the New Mexico Environment Department. “If we want to make New Mexico’s air safe for future generations then Houston-based Hilcorp Energy Corporation executives need to step up their game and comply with federal and state rules.”

Federal Clean Air Act and New Mexico state air regulations require oil and gas producers to capture gas that flows back to the surface following fracking using equipment that can accommodate flowback and to implement a reduced emission completion control, commonly referred to as a green completion. Producers have several green completion options to choose from. If none are technically feasible, producers may route the captured gas to a pollution control device like a flare.

Based on EPA’s and NMED’s investigations, the U.S. and the state allege that Hilcorp conducted at least 192 well completion operations in Rio Arriba and San Juan counties from Aug. 2, 2017, through Aug. 1, 2019.

At 145 of these well completions, Hilcorp captured none of the gas and instead released into the atmosphere all gas that flowed back following fracking. At the remainder of well completions, Hilcorp captured a portion of the gas and directed it to a flare but did not demonstrate that all green completion options were infeasible. Hilcorp’s actions resulted in thousands of tons of harmful methane and VOC emissions being released into the environment. Methane is a climate super pollutant and potent greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change, and VOCs adversely affect human health in multiple ways, including being involved in the formation of ground level ozone.

Hilcorp is one of the nation’s largest privately-owned oil and gas exploration and production companies, and a top producer of natural gas in New Mexico from 2018-2021. New Mexico is one of the top ten producing states for natural gas in the United States for 2018-2023. In 2022, on-shore oil and gas industry data reported to EPA showed that Hilcorp’s San Juan Basin operation emitted the most methane in the U.S. among all oil and gas operations.

The settlement is part of EPA’s Mitigating Climate Change National Enforcement and Compliance Initiative, which focuses, in part, on reducing methane emissions from oil and gas and landfill sources. Like all EPA’s national enforcement initiatives, the Mitigating Climate Change initiative prioritizes communities already overburdened by pollution and other potential environmental justice concerns.

More information on the settlement agreement is available on EPA’s Hilcorp Energy Company webpage.

The consent decree was filed with the U.S. District Court for the District of New Mexico and is subject to a 30-day comment period. Information on providing public comment and the complaint and proposed consent decree are available on the Justice Department’s website at www.justice.gov/enrd/consent-decrees.

EPA and NMED investigated the case.

Attorneys of the Environment and Natural Resources Division’s Environmental Enforcement Section are handling the case.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: FEMA Administrator Surveys Virginia Counties and Meets with Survivors and Local Community Officials Recovering from Helene

Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

Headline: FEMA Administrator Surveys Virginia Counties and Meets with Survivors and Local Community Officials Recovering from Helene

FEMA Administrator Surveys Virginia Counties and Meets with Survivors and Local Community Officials Recovering from Helene

WASHINGTON — As FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell continues to lead the federal response to Helene and Milton in six states, today she is in Virginia to meet survivors and local officials as they continue their recovery from Helene.

In Virginia, the administrator visited affected communities with Gov. Glenn Youngkin. Earlier in the week she and North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper in Buncombe County to speak with disaster survivors and meet staff at a local high school as part of the recovery.

Critical services continue being restored. The Commonwealth of Virginia is focused on debris removal, particularly in lakes that provide the commonwealth a source of drinking water. Removing debris will also reduce threats to public health and safety. In Florida—hit by both storms—power outages have been reduced to about 17,000, down from a peak of 3.2 million. And in North Carolina, approximately 13,000 customers remain without power, down from a peak of about 1 million customers without power.

In total, about 433,000 households have been approved for nearly $619 million in FEMA assistance for their Helene recovery while 61,000 households have received $54 million for Milton. Survivors are using these funds to replace essential items, pay for somewhere to stay and make home repairs.

Hurricane Milton survivors in 34 Florida counties and one Tribal Nation can register for federal disaster assistance. On Oct. 11, President Jospeh R. Biden, Jr., approved a major disaster declaration for Florida following the hurricane. President Biden previously approved federal disaster assistance in six states affected by Helene. This opens up federal help for survivors in designated areas in Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia.

In addition, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers announced the Operation Blue Tarp which is a free service to homeowners. Residents impacted by Hurricane Milton can sign-up at www.blueroof.gov, or by calling 888-ROOF-BLU (888-766-3258). The initial sign-up period is set for 21 days and ends Nov. 5. The Florida counties impacted by Hurricane Milton currently identified for the program include: Brevard, Citrus, Charlotte, DeSoto, Hardee, Hernando, Highlands, Hillsborough, Indian River, Lake, Manatee, Okeechobee, Orange, Osceola, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk, Sarasota, Seminole, St. Lucie, Sumter and Volusia.

FEMA encourages Helene and Milton survivors to apply online as this remains the best way to apply for disaster assistance. Here are the ways to apply for federal assistance:

·         Apply online at disasterassistance.gov

·         Call 800-621-3362

·         Use the FEMA App

·         Visit a Disaster Recovery Center to talk with FEMA and state agency officials and apply for assistance

In total, over 8,200 federal personnel—including 4,300 FEMA staff—are in communities in these states supporting the ongoing response and recovery efforts.

These photos highlight response and recovery efforts across states impacted by Helene and Milton.

View Original‘ data-align=”center” data-asset-link=”1″ data-entity-type=”emerald” data-image-style=”large” data-asset-type=”imageasset” data-asset-id=”56489″ src=”https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/externals/51c770e055bfac2bdf77a115b7d1e1e9.jpg?itok=d6OkGMpD” alt=”Caption: Lee County, Va. – A group comprised of staff from the Lee County 911, Virginia Department of Emergency Management, the U.S. Small Business Administration, and FEMA was conducting Preliminary Damage Assessments to survey properties affected by Tropical Storm Helene in September.” class=”image-style-large”>
Lee County, Va. – A group comprised of staff from the Lee County 911, Virginia Department of Emergency Management, the U.S. Small Business Administration, and FEMA was conducting Preliminary Damage Assessments to survey properties affected by Tropical Storm Helene in September.

View Original‘ data-align=”center” data-asset-link=”1″ data-entity-type=”emerald” data-image-style=”large” data-asset-type=”imageasset” data-asset-id=”56511″ src=”https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/externals/0ac80a360274e00254b29ac8e241b18a.jpg?itok=d3rO453K” alt=”Caption: Burnsville, N.C. – FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell and North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper visit the Pensacola Volunteer Fire Department to talk with staff and disaster survivors.” class=”image-style-large”>
Burnsville, N.C. – FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell and North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper visit the Pensacola Volunteer Fire Department to talk with staff and disaster survivors.

View Original‘ data-align=”center” data-asset-link=”1″ data-entity-type=”emerald” data-image-style=”large” data-asset-type=”imageasset” data-asset-id=”56462″ src=”https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/externals/7037f02841813c689a6e8dc2d71c40b7.jpg?itok=p12cSWX5″ alt=”Caption: Buncombe County, NC – FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell and North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper tour recovery operations at a local high school, fire station and community care station to talk with staff and disaster survivors.” class=”image-style-large”>
Buncombe County, NC – FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell and North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper tour recovery operations at a local high school, fire station and community care station to talk with staff and disaster survivors.

BUNCOMBE COUNTY, North Carolina – FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell visits with staff and disaster survivors about recovery operations at a local high school, fire station and community care station. (Source: FEMA)

View Original‘ data-align=”center” data-asset-link=”1″ data-entity-type=”emerald” data-image-style=”large” data-asset-type=”imageasset” data-asset-id=”56452″ src=”https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/externals/a0cbc8cb1e9938b50f025fa483a0d283.jpg?itok=pClsD1s-” alt=”Caption: Buncombe County, NC – FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell and North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper tour recovery operations at a local high school, fire station and community care station to talk with staff and disaster survivors.” class=”image-style-large”>
Buncombe County, NC – FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell and North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper tour recovery operations at a local high school, fire station and community care station to talk with staff and disaster survivors.

View Original‘ data-align=”center” data-asset-link=”1″ data-entity-type=”emerald” data-image-style=”large” data-asset-type=”imageasset” data-asset-id=”56481″ src=”https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/externals/80ff6cd868da9e52fceb6d20106f1667.jpg?itok=9Hhe7DBi” alt=”Caption: Swannanoa, NC – FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance staff help survivors at a Community Care Station. FEMA, Buncombe County, City of Asheville and the private sector have worked together to offer showers, laundry, bathrooms, access to cell towers, hot food, water, Wi-Fi, and medicine.” class=”image-style-large”>
Swannanoa, NC – FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance staff help survivors at a Community Care Station. FEMA, Buncombe County, City of Asheville and the private sector have worked together to offer showers, laundry, bathrooms, access to cell towers, hot food, water, Wi-Fi, and medicine.

View Original‘ data-align=”center” data-asset-link=”1″ data-entity-type=”emerald” data-image-style=”large” data-asset-type=”imageasset” data-asset-id=”56531″ src=”https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/externals/50d8ffc037538c49d382007aa1769886.jpg?itok=xW7qucuF” alt=”Caption: Sarasota, Fla. (Oct. 17, 2024) – U.S. Army Corps of Engineers assist a family of survivors in their first Blue Roof Project in Sarasota, Florida in the aftermath of Hurricane Milton.” class=”image-style-large”>
Sarasota, Fla. (Oct. 17, 2024) – U.S. Army Corps of Engineers assist a family of survivors in their first Blue Roof Project in Sarasota, Florida in the aftermath of Hurricane Milton.

View Original‘ data-align=”center” data-asset-link=”1″ data-entity-type=”emerald” data-image-style=”large” data-asset-type=”imageasset” data-asset-id=”56426″ src=”https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/externals/6ed91d66e28321cf80a1887989c06c4a.jpg?itok=qM79h6sL” alt=”Caption: Palm Beach County, Fla. (Oct. 15, 2024) – DSA crews canvas an area of The Acreage in Palm Beach County Florida.” class=”image-style-large”>
Palm Beach County, Fla. (Oct. 15, 2024) – DSA crews canvas an area of The Acreage in Palm Beach County Florida.

View Original‘ data-align=”center” data-asset-link=”1″ data-entity-type=”emerald” data-image-style=”large” data-asset-type=”imageasset” data-asset-id=”56473″ src=”https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/externals/cf9d4bec75102ebbb97b6fc199bfe0d0.jpg?itok=9VB86i5n” alt=”Caption: Columbia, S.C. (Oct. 14, 2024) – FEMA’s Director of Disability Integration and Coordination, Sherman Gillums, Jr., visits the Association for Better Living and Education to show support for their ongoing efforts in supporting the disabled community. Director Gillums met with Dori Tempio, Sr., Director of Community Education, and Mandy Halloran, Director of Public Health.” class=”image-style-large”>
Columbia, S.C. (Oct. 14, 2024) – FEMA’s Director of Disability Integration and Coordination, Sherman Gillums, Jr., visits the Association for Better Living and Education to show support for their ongoing efforts in supporting the disabled community. Director Gillums met with Dori Tempio, Sr., Director of Community Education, and Mandy Halloran, Director of Public Health.

View Original‘ data-align=”center” data-asset-link=”1″ data-entity-type=”emerald” data-image-style=”large” data-asset-type=”imageasset” data-asset-id=”56471″ src=”https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/externals/9050b3d4f1ac9a6e2bd7cdfbf7ae3a71.jpg?itok=o0HpV_iy” alt=”Caption: Sandersville, Ga. (Oct. 14, 2024) – FEMA opens a Disaster Recovery Center in Sandersville, Georgia to register members of the community and surrounding counties effected by Hurricane Helene for disaster assistance.” class=”image-style-large”>
Sandersville, Ga. (Oct. 14, 2024) – FEMA opens a Disaster Recovery Center in Sandersville, Georgia to register members of the community and surrounding counties effected by Hurricane Helene for disaster assistance.

FEMA’s Disaster Multimedia Toolkit page provides graphics, social media copy and sample text in multiple languages. In addition, FEMA has set up a rumor control web page to reduce confusion about its role in the Helene response.

amy.ashbridge
Thu, 10/17/2024 – 22:12

MIL OSI USA News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Rubio, Moolenaar, Colleagues Question Treasury on Failure to Block Gotion Industrial Site

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Florida Marco Rubio

Rubio, Moolenaar, Colleagues Question Treasury on Failure to Block Gotion Industrial Site
Oct 17, 2024 | Press Releases

Gotion Incorporated, a company with deep ties to the Chinese Communist Party, has developed a large industrial site near a U.S. military installation in Mecosta County, Michigan. The failure of the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) to investigate and block this development poses a serious threat to U.S. national security.
U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL), U.S. Representative John Moolenaar (R-MI), and colleagues sent a letter to U.S. Department of Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen questioning CFIUS’s decision-making and urging an update of the committee’s rules.
“We write to express our deep concern regarding the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s apparent failure to block Gotion Incorporated (Gotion)—an entity with deep ties to the Chinese Communist Party (CCP)—from developing a large industrial site near a major U.S. military installation.
“Given CFIUS’ failure to launch a review of Gotion’s site development when the project was first publicly announced two years ago, it is now imperative that CFIUS update its proposed rulemaking to clarify the Committee’s ability to conduct retroactive reviews of covered greenfield investments that it previously failed to address.”
Joining Rubio and Moolenaar were Senators Tom Cotton (R-AR), Mike Braun (R-IN) and Joni Ernst (R-IA), as well as Representatives Lisa McClain (R-MI), Bill Huizenga (R-MI), Jack Bergman (R-MI), John James (R-MI), and Tim Walberg (R-MI).
Flashback… In September 2023, Rubio and Moolenaar sent a letter to Secretary Yellen urging CFIUS to review Gotion’s ownership.
The full text of the letter is below.
Dear Secretary Yellen:
We write to express our deep concern regarding the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s apparent failure to block Gotion Incorporated (Gotion)—an entity with deep ties to the Chinese Communist Party (CCP)—from developing a large industrial site near a major U.S. military installation. The scope of United States warfighting capabilities is extremely sensitive knowledge. We must only share this information selectively, exclusively, and knowingly with close allies and partners. Federal agencies have a duty to prevent America’s adversaries from obtaining information concerning our national defense personnel and assets. As we are sure you will agree, the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) plays a vital role in blocking foreign efforts to collect intelligence on our military via domestic investment.
Unfortunately, CFIUS seems to have neglected a substantial foreign project constituting a major national security threat stemming from a major facility being constructed by Gotion. Gotion is the U.S. subsidiary of Gotion High-Tech, an electric vehicle (EV) battery company which is based in the People’s Republic of China (PRC) and has documented ties to the CCP. The House Select Committee on the CCP has routinely documented Gotion High-Tech’s notorious, widespread human rights abuses and use of forced labor in mainland China, in addition to its connection with Chinese paramilitary groups. Nonetheless, Gotion is currently constructing a $2.4 billion EV battery plant in Mecosta County, Michigan.
In June 2023, Gotion announced that its plans for plant construction were outside of CFIUS’ jurisdiction, and could therefore continue the project. But as you know, as of February 13, 2020, CFIUS’ jurisdiction applies to greenfield investments when a foreign entity purchases real estate near certain sensitive military bases. Federal regulations define the extended range of a military installation as land within a 100-mile radius of the military installation (31 C.F.R. § 802.211). Covered installations include certain Army combat training centers within the continental United States (31 C.F.R. § 802.227(h)).
According to CFIUS’ own Part 802 geographic reference tool, Gotion’s site in Michigan is located just under 60 miles south of the Camp Grayling Joint Maneuver Training Center—well within the regulation’s definition of extended range. Camp Grayling is the largest National Guard training facility in the United States, and is host to both the Northern Strike joint exercises and the National Guard Exportable Combat Training Center Exercises. Yet, despite Camp Grayling’s significance, and the overwhelming evidence that this facility meets CFIUS’ conditions for a sensitive military installation, CFIUS did not include the camp under its definition of covered real estate until its July 2024 proposed rule, “Definition of Military Installation and the List of Military Installations in Regulations Pertaining to Certain Transactions by Foreign Persons Involving Real Estate in the United States.”
Given CFIUS’ failure to launch a review of Gotion’s site development when the project was first publicly announced two years ago, it is now imperative that CFIUS update its proposed rulemaking to clarify the Committee’s ability to conduct retroactive reviews of covered greenfield investments that it previously failed to address. This step is well within CFIUS’ authority under 50 U.S.C. 4565 §(b)(1)(D)(i). This common-sense measure would not only allow CFIUS to put a stop to Gotion’s continued nefarious activity, but also the activities of many other adversarial entities that have slipped under CFIUS’ radar and acquired land near sensitive military sites. CFIUS’ failure to retroactively review these transactions would constitute a major security blunder and permit the CCP to engage in intelligence gathering that compromises our military capabilities and readiness.
Given the severity of what seems to be a grave lapse in CFIUS’ judgement, we request answers to the following questions:
Why did CFIUS fail to designate Camp Grayling as an army combat training center under covered real estate until its July 2024 proposed rule?
If Camp Grayling’s exclusion from covered real estate was a failure in oversight, what steps is CFIUS taking to rectify the situation?
What action is CFIUS taking to stop Gotion from continuing its plant construction given its proximity to a major military installation?
Will CFIUS commit to clarify its authority to conduct retroactive reviews of covered greenfield investments that have slipped under CFIUS’ radar?
Thank you for your attention to this important matter. We look forward to your prompt response.
Sincerely,

MIL OSI USA News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-Evening Report: How did public service leaders talk to staff about Robodebt? What they said – or didn’t – is revealing
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Daniel Casey, Lecturer, School of Politics and International Relations, Australian National University

In July 2023, after the release of the damning Robodebt Royal Commission report, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese declared:

it was wrong, it was illegal, it should never have happened and it should never happen again.

A major finding was some senior public servants were overly responsive to the wishes of ministers, to the detriment of the general public. The report describes an environment that was:

fraught […] characterised by a powerful drive for savings, strongly expressed ministerial policy positions […] and intense pressure experienced by public servants.

Investigating the scheme, which ran under the Morrison government, Commissioner Catherine Holmes was disturbed by “the lengths to which public servants were prepared to go to oblige ministers”, undermining the concept of impartiality and frank and fearless advice.

The release of Rick Morton’s new book Mean Streak brings a renewed focus on the lessons from Robodebt. To learn from such a serious crisis, organisations need to openly confront what happened, discuss and understand what the failure means. What were the systemic causes? What cultural failings did it expose? How can we ensure a similar disaster does not happen again?

Our research found little evidence these questions were being asked by many public service leaders immediately after the royal commission.

In the six months after the royal commission report’s release, almost half of the heads of Australian Public Service (APS) agencies apparently decided they didn’t need to communicate with their staff about Robodebt and explain what it meant for them.

What did department leaders do?

Learning from the failure of Robodebt will take time. In 2024, the public service is investigating and punishing some of those involved and implementing a new integrity plan.

Our research focuses on the six months after the release of the royal commission report: July to December 2023. Research shows the immediate post-crisis period is crucial to effective learning.

But before organisations can respond, they have to interpret and understand the meaning of the failure.

Just as the public turns to political leaders in a crisis, employees look to management. Leaders’ communication, whether by email, an all staff video, or a town hall meeting, is crucial.

These messages set the organisational narrative that explains what happened and why, what the repercussions are, how it can be resolved, and what lessons (if any) should be drawn from the crisis.

Three days after the royal commission report was released, the secretary of the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet, Glyn Davis, and Australian Public Service Commissioner Gordon de Brouwer, emailed all public service employees saying:

we are committed to working through the findings in an open and constructive way with you — the APS — and with the Australian public.

Our focus, however, is on how leaders of individual departments and agencies responded. Using Freedom of Information (FOI) requests, we asked how leaders communicated with staff in the crucial period straight after the commission reported.

Departments are where policy development occurs and they often work closely with ministers.

But only half of all public servants work for departments. The rest work across the 100 or so agencies.

While most department heads communicated with their staff about Robodebt, only 54% of agencies’ leaders did.

The 50 agencies that did not communicate with their staff about the meaning of Robodebt in the months following the report employ more than 45,000 people, more than 25% of the public service.

Not my problem mentality

Three large departments told us that “no documents were identified” or “the Department does not hold documents […] that meet the terms of the request”. This indicates they did not communicate with staff in the first six months after the Robodebt report was handed down. The departments were:
It is not clear why those secretaries decided not to write to their staff directly about Robodebt, but the absence of communication sends a message.

This was explicit in some responses. For example, in declining our request, we were told that the Independent Health and Aged Care Pricing Authority:

[…] is not an outwardly facing organisation and as such does not provide payments to individual recipients. Consequently, it is not required to respond to the Royal Commission and there are no documents that are relevant to your request.

Even when there was some communication, agencies were not necessarily addressing the cultural issues. For example, the Clean Energy Regulator was focused on public perception:

there is a heightened sense of scrutiny on regulators […] please be vigilant if you are approached by anybody working for a media outlet.

In such circumstances, it is unlikely cultural change will occur.

Some positive signs

On the positive side, there were examples of agencies that addressed the serious implications of Robodebt for their work, which is likely to improve their organisational culture.

The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) identified a number of recommendations “albeit directed at other agencies […] that ASIC should act on”. They noted that “given most of our people come from the private sector”, there was a need to improve training on “our obligations as public servants”.

Read more:
Two former federal departmental heads breached public service code 25 times in Robodebt scandal

Similarly, Australian statistician David Gruen emphasised creating a culture where “people feel supported if and when they seek to raise difficult issues with their colleagues or superiors”. Similar discussions were had at AUSTRAC.

Departments are closest to ministers, so we hoped their communications would address problems in the relationships between senior public servants and ministers, a key issue exposed in the Robodebt case.

Unfortunately, only four departments discussed over-responsiveness with their staff or in executive meetings, in the period studied.

The department of industry and science was the most comprehensive. Secretary Meghan Quinn wrote to staff several times, reflecting that the “findings go to the heart of leadership and culture and this should be our focus going forward”. The department’s integrity branch wrote to staff:

public servants [must] […] provide the government with advice that is frank and honest. If you ever feel pressured to do or sign something you are not comfortable with, it’s important you speak with your supervisors […] you have the Executive’s backing not to put your name to anything that is not true or not in the public interest.

However, this was one of the few departments where senior staff confronted these core issues directly in the early months after the royal commission reported. Most departments did not name or discuss the underlying cause of the failures: over-responsiveness to ministers at the expense of protecting the public.

While many of the errors of Robodebt can be solved through new procedures and rules, changing public service culture is a bigger learning project.

It requires a shift in norms and reweighting the competing duties of public servants. They must serve elected ministers, but equally, they must serve the public by ensuring probity, fairness and legality.

Robodebt illustrated the harm that occurs when the balance tips too far towards ministers and away from the public interest.

That this was rarely part of the communication from public service leaders to their staff in the immediate aftermath of the royal commission does not bode well for lessons being learnt from the crisis.

Daniel Casey worked in the Department of Social Services during the period of Robodebt, but did not work on the Robodebt program.

Maria Maley received funding from the Australian Research Council.

– ref. How did public service leaders talk to staff about Robodebt? What they said – or didn’t – is revealing – https://theconversation.com/how-did-public-service-leaders-talk-to-staff-about-robodebt-what-they-said-or-didnt-is-revealing-240015
MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –
January 24, 2025
MIL-Evening Report: Can NZ’s supply chain build enough resilience and sustainability to survive the next global crisis?

Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Julia Fehrer, Associate Professor, Business School, University of Auckland, Waipapa Taumata Rau

New Zealand is highly reliant on trade – particularly on maritime routes, which are lifelines for exports and imports. Key sectors such as agriculture, construction, and wholesale and retail trade depend heavily on this global network.

External events can severely disrupt the flow of goods, delay deliveries or damage critical infrastructure.

But a crisis like the COVID pandemic can also disrupt business commitments to sustainability goals such as reducing carbon emissions, minimising waste and improving resource efficiency.

This is important, because several major New Zealand companies have introduced sustainability measures into their operations over the past decade.

Fonterra, for example, adopted low-carbon logistics and distribution practices. Zespri uses blockchain technology to improve the transparency of its sustainable practices and enhance tracking across its supply chain. Air New Zealand partners with local suppliers and adopts initiatives to lower its carbon emissions.

In our recent research, we reviewed 287 studies on supply chains. We identified key tensions between efficiency and sustainability, and how major disruptions to supply chains and operations can swing the balance between the two.

On one hand, businesses are pressured to maintain lean, cost-effective operations. On the other, there is a growing recognition of the need to build resilience and sustainability, particularly in the face of climate change.

Traditional strategies

New Zealand’s supply chains are susceptible to disruptions from natural disasters (such as earthquakes and floods), geopolitical tensions and global health crises.

Businesses have historically responded in a variety of ways: diversifying suppliers, increasing inventory buffers and securing alternative transport routes.

The use of technology, such as radio frequency identification, has played a crucial role in tracking goods across the supply chain. It provides real-time visibility and accurate inventory management.

Blockchain is becoming a key tool for making supply chains more sustainable. This technology uses a digital ledger to keep information safe and easy to trace.

But the ongoing technological innovation risks disadvantaging people and businesses with limited resources and capabilities along the supply chain.

Embracing a circular economy

During the pandemic, businesses experienced shortages of critical supplies, delays in shipments and fluctuating demand. This forced them to temporarily abandon long-term sustainability strategies in favour of short-term survival tactics.

This made sense from a business perspective. But to build more resilient and sustainable supply chains, businesses will need to move beyond traditional strategies.

Our research found integrating circular economy principles into supply chain management can help create a buffer for businesses.

The circular economy model focuses on minimising waste – keeping products and materials in use for as long as possible. There is also a focus on regenerating natural systems to foster economic, social and environmental resilience.

Companies can reduce their reliance on external supply chains by focusing on reusing materials, creating closed-loop systems with regional partners and by boosting the technologies already in place.

By fostering stronger links with local suppliers and focusing on regional sourcing, businesses can reduce their exposure to global risks. This will also help build more self-sufficient supply chain ecosystems.

Building sustainable supply chains requires investing in advanced technologies, such as blockchain and artificial intelligence. But implementing these technologies should be done carefully and in stages to minimise disruption. Going slowly can also allow for the inclusion of all supply chain partners in these technological transitions.

The way forward

New Zealand’s supply chain future hinges on greater collaboration between everyone involved, including businesses, policymakers and communities.

In practice, this means working together to build systems that are not only efficient and cost-effective but also resilient and sustainable.

Equally, resilient supply chains require regional manufacturing ecosystems. To mitigate the risks from global supply chain disruptions, it’s essential to support local manufacturing, even when offshore manufacturing costs are lower.

This will require government support and strategic investment in regional manufacturing innovation.

While New Zealand’s supply chains face significant challenges, there are great opportunities to reshape them for a more resilient and sustainable future.

By integrating circular economy principles, using advanced technologies and fostering regional collaboration, New Zealand can build supply chains that are prepared for future crises and which also contribute to the country’s sustainability goals.

Julia Fehrer receives funding from the New Zealand Ministry of Business, Innovation, and Employment.

Christina Stringer, Sunny Kareem, and Timofey Shalpegin do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

– ref. Can NZ’s supply chain build enough resilience and sustainability to survive the next global crisis? – https://theconversation.com/can-nzs-supply-chain-build-enough-resilience-and-sustainability-to-survive-the-next-global-crisis-241348

MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Video: What’s next for data-driven medicine – and what AI-powered innovation needs now: insitro CEO Daph…

Source: World Economic Forum (video statements)

Daphne Koller is an AI pioneer, MacArthur fellow, member of the National Academy of sciences and the founder and CEO of drug discovery and development company insitro. She’ll talk about how attitudes surrounding AI have evolved in her multi-decade career and what’s ahead – including how technology is reshaping drug discovery, paving the way for more targeted treatments for the patients who can benefit most. But maximizing AI-powered innovation will depend on better investments in data aggregation, quality and collection and navigating hype cycles that can distract from real impact.

This academic-turned-entrepreneur will also share how founding insitro (and a previous company, Coursera) helped her expand her leadership and management skills, all while driving home the importance of shaping a company culture. At insitro, this focus building a culture that works for unique needs led to a special ‘helix’ inspired-structure that helps discovery biologists, automation engineers and others in the company’s cross-functional teams keep communication flowing, problem solve, and prevent the siloes that can hold true innovation back.

Transcript: https://www.weforum.org/podcasts/meet-the-leader/episodes/daphne-koller-insitro-AI-soft-skills Insitro: https://www.insitro.com/ Top Ten Technologies of 2024: https://www.weforum.org/publications/top-10-emerging-technologies-2024/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t4mQtLEOsVk

MIL OSI Video –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: SBA Stands Ready to Assist Alaska Businesses and Residents Affected by the Flooding

Source: United States Small Business Administration

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Low-interest federal disaster loans are now available to Alaska businesses and residents as a result of President Biden’s major disaster declaration, U.S. Small Business Administration’s Administrator Isabella Casillas Guzman announced.

The declaration covers the City and Borough of Juneau as a result of flooding that occurred Aug. 5–6.

“SBA’s mission-driven team stands ready to help Alaska’s small businesses and residents impacted by flooding,” said Administrator Guzman. “We’re committed to providing federal disaster loans swiftly and efficiently, with a customer-centric approach to help businesses and communities recover and rebuild.”

Businesses of all sizes and private nonprofit organizations may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory and other business assets.

For small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small businesses engaged in aquaculture and most private nonprofit organizations of any size, SBA offers Economic Injury Disaster Loans to help meet working capital needs caused by the disaster. Economic injury assistance is available to businesses regardless of any property damage.

“SBA’s disaster loan program offers an important advantage–the chance to incorporate measures that can reduce the risk of future damage,” said Francisco Sánchez, Jr., associate administrator for the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the Small Business Administration. “Work with contractors and mitigation professionals to strengthen your property and take advantage of the opportunity to request additional SBA disaster loan funds for these proactive improvements.”

Disaster loans up to $500,000 are available to homeowners to repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate. Homeowners and renters are eligible for up to $100,000 to repair or replace damaged or destroyed personal property, including personal vehicles.

Interest rates can be as low as 4 percent for businesses, 3.25 percent for private nonprofit organizations and 2.813 percent for homeowners and renters with terms up to 30 years. Loan amounts and terms are set by SBA and are based on each applicant’s financial condition.

Interest does not begin to accrue until 12 months from the date of the first disaster loan disbursement. SBA disaster loan repayment begins 12 months from the date of the first disbursement.

On October 15, 2024, it was announced that funds for the Disaster Loan Program have been fully expended. While no new loans can be issued until Congress appropriates additional funding, we remain committed to supporting disaster survivors. Applications will continue to be accepted and processed to ensure individuals and businesses are prepared to receive assistance once funding becomes available.

Applicants are encouraged to submit their loan applications promptly for review in anticipation of future funding.

As soon as Federal-State Disaster Recovery Centers open throughout the affected area, SBA will provide one-on-one assistance to disaster loan applicants. Additional information and details on the location of disaster recovery centers is available by calling the SBA Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955.

###

About the U.S. Small Business Administration
The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit http://www.sba.gov.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: SBA to Open Virtual Business Recovery Center to Assist Arizona Businesses Affected by Watch Fire

Source: United States Small Business Administration

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Francisco Sánchez Jr., associate administrator for the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the Small Business Administration, today announced the opening of its virtual Business Recovery Center to meet the needs of businesses and individuals who were affected by affected by the Watch Fire that occurred July 10-17.

“When disasters strike, our virtual Business Recovery Centers are key to helping business owners and residents get back on their feet,” Sánchez said. “At these virtual centers, people can connect directly with our specialists to apply for disaster loans and learn about the full range of programs available to rebuild and move forward in their recovery journey.”

SBA has established a virtual Business Recovery Center to answer questions about SBA’s disaster loan program, explain the application process and help each individual complete their electronic loan application.

Virtual Business Recovery Center
Monday – Friday
8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Pacific Time
FOCWAssistance@sba.gov
(916) 932-8956
Opens at 8 a.m. Friday, Oct. 18

Businesses of all sizes and private nonprofit organizations may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory and other business assets.

For small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small businesses engaged in aquaculture and most private nonprofit organizations of any size, SBA offers Economic Injury Disaster Loans to help meet working capital needs caused by the disaster. Economic injury assistance is available regardless of whether the business suffered any property damage.

“SBA’s disaster loan program offers an important advantage–the chance to incorporate measures that can reduce the risk of future damage,” Sánchez continued. “Work with contractors and mitigation professionals to strengthen your property and take advantage of the opportunity to request additional SBA disaster loan funds for these proactive improvements.”

SBA disaster loans up to $500,000 are available to homeowners to repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate. Homeowners and renters are eligible for up to $100,000 to repair or replace damaged or destroyed personal property, including personal vehicles.

Interest rates can be as low as 4 percent for businesses, 3.25 percent for private nonprofit organizations and 2.688 percent for homeowners and renters with terms up to 30 years. Loan amounts and terms are set by SBA and are based on each applicant’s financial condition.

Interest does not begin to accrue until 12 months from the date of the first disaster loan disbursement. SBA disaster loan repayment begins 12 months from the date of the first disbursement.

On October 15, 2024, it was announced that funds for the Disaster Loan Program have been fully expended. While no new loans can be issued until Congress appropriates additional funding, we remain committed to supporting disaster survivors. Applications will continue to be accepted and processed to ensure individuals and businesses are prepared to receive assistance once funding becomes available.

Applicants are encouraged to submit their loan applications promptly for review in anticipation of future funding.

Applicants may apply online and receive additional disaster assistance information and download applications at SBA.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659‑2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

The deadline to apply for property damage is Dec. 3, 2024. The deadline to apply for economic injury is July 7, 2025.

###

About the U.S. Small Business Administration
The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit http://www.sba.gov.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI China: Germany, China seek broader opportunies for bilateral cooperation

Source: China State Council Information Office

Strong cooperation between Germany and China is vital for maintaining global economic stability, particularly amid rising geopolitical tensions, according to Christian Scharpf, mayor of Ingolstadt in southern Bavaria.

Scharpf made the remarks during an interview with Xinhua at the “10th Bavarian China Day” here on Wednesday. The event, organized by the municipal government and the Chinese Consulate General in Munich, drew more than 120 officials and business leaders from both countries, underscoring the promising prospects for bilateral collaboration.

This year marks the 10th anniversary of the comprehensive strategic partnership between China and Germany, which has delivered significant progress in trade and economic cooperation, said Lin Kai, acting consul general at the Chinese consulate in Munich.

Highlighting the deep ties between China and the German state of Bavaria, Lin said that around 500 Chinese companies have established operations in Bavaria. Meanwhile, over 600 Bavarian enterprises, including Siemens, Audi, BMW, and Allianz, have set up branches and made investments in China.

Tobias Gotthardt, state secretary at the Bavarian Ministry of Economic Affairs, Regional Development and Energy, said that China has been Bavaria’s most important trading partner for years, with bilateral trade volume reaching 53 billion euros (57.5 billion U.S. dollars) in 2023. Bavaria’s exports to China have remained strong, while imports from China have nearly doubled over the past three years, he added.

Gotthardt stressed the importance of foreign trade for the state and Germany as a whole, noting that the Chinese market is indispensable.

“Cooperation in areas such as mechanical engineering, automotive, and energy and environmental technologies has been built on a foundation of trust over many years,” said Gotthardt.

He expressed optimism that this collaboration will continue to drive economic growth and address global challenges like sustainability. “We must remain focused on cooperation in areas where it is possible.”

Yu Guangsheng, deputy head of the investment promotion at China’s Ministry of Commerce, mentioned that German investments in China reached an all-time high in the first half of this year, while Chinese investments in Germany surged by 42 percent year-on-year in 2023. “Companies from both countries are demonstrating their confidence in bilateral economic relations and partnerships through tangible investments,” he said.

During the event, Ingolstadt and Changchun, a major city in northeast China, announced the establishment of a strategic economic partnership.

Scharpf underscored the longstanding relationship between Ingolstadt, home to Audi’s headquarters, and Changchun, where China’s automotive giant FAW Group is based. He noted that economic and cultural exchanges between the two cities have been active for years, and expressed hope for even deeper cooperation in the future.

The mayor voiced his belief that the two countries still have vast potential for collaboration, particularly in areas like climate protection, sustainable development, as well as education and cultural exchanges.

Regarding the European Union’s (EU) recent tariff policy on electric vehicles from China, experts at the event criticized protectionism, and advocated for the promotion of free trade and mutual development between the EU and China.

Gotthardt warned that the tariffs could escalate trade conflicts and undermine the principles of free trade. “A tariff-free alternative would undoubtedly be a better solution for all parties involved,” he said.

Georg Rosenfeld, an economic official from Ingolstadt, echoed this sentiment, saying that protectionism and trade barriers are detrimental. He called for open and fair competition, as well as mutual trust which is essential to fostering such competition. (1 euro = 1.08 U.S. dollar)

MIL OSI China News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Activist News – Weekly protests are extending further around the country as Israel runs riot and our government’s policy of appeasement towards Israel fails dramatically – PSNA
Source: Palestinian Solidarity Network Aotearoa

Details of our weekly solidarity protests around the country are listed at the end of this letter sent to the Prime Minister yesterday.

Rt Hon Christopher Luxon

Prime Minister

Parliament Buildings

Wellington

c.luxon@ministers.govt.nz

Kia ora Mr Luxon,

We write to you as a matter of utmost urgency, with a rapidly deteriorating situation in the Middle East.

The policy of appeasement towards Israel over the past year by western countries has failed miserably. Israel has expanded its attacks and has abandoned all pretence of any sort of negotiated settlements.

Our government is holding on desperately to a hopelessly weak and indefensible policy towards the Middle East. I have no doubt you know this.

Israel is running riot with endless bombing and killing as it spreads murder and mayhem. The majority of victims in Gaza, Lebanon and the West Bank are women and children – tens of thousands of children.

You and I know this would never be tolerated if the victims were European.

The situation has now become even more desperate and deadly with
- Israel has refused to allow any food or supplies to be delivered since the beginning of this month to northern Gaza. It has again unleased its firepower with absolute impunity on refugee camps and other civilian areas with the openly stated aim of ethnic cleansing of the majority of the 400,000 Palestinians who remain there.
- Israel’s delivery of its threat to turn Lebanon into another Gaza, with attacks throughout the country, including Christian areas.
- Israel’s endless attempts to widen the war across the region into Iran with repeated violations of its sovereignty until Iran responded – though without a single Israeli casualty.
- Israel’s blatant attacks on UNIFIL positions and demands that UNIFIL withdraw from its mission to allow Israeli military advances further into Lebanon to achieve regime change for a Lebanese government subservient to its interests.
Despite all that has happened over 12 months you have issued only platitudes “calling an all sides to exercise restraint” and condemnation of all parties Israel decides that is its enemies.

You have failed to condemn Israel for anything it has ever done against the Palestinian victims of its settler colonial project and yet you have condemned every act of Palestinian resistance to Israel’s illegal occupation, genocide, and ethnic cleansing.

Other countries, the UK, France, Spain, Norway, and Ireland have spoken out and taken, albeit token, action to remind Israel that it is operating outside international law.

History will condemn your 12 months of complicit silence but action now can make a real difference and saves tens of thousands of innocent lives. A minimum list of actions includes:
1. Condemn Israeli action against the Palestinian people in Gaza and the West Bank as war crimes
2. Join South Africa’s case of proving genocide against Israel at the International Court of Justice
3. Implement the recent obligations specified by the ICJ under the Geneva Conventions towards ending Israeli occupation of the Palestinian Occupied Territories.
4. Identify and ban imports of products from illegal Israeli settlements in the Occupied Palestinian Territories
5. End procurement of goods and services from companies identified by the United Nations as complicit in building and maintaining illegal Israeli settlements
6. Direct the Superfund, ACC and Kiwisaver providers to divest from companies on the UN list
7. Investigate the export of Rakon Industry components which are incorporated into US weapons which almost inevitably end in the industrial-scale killing of Palestinians.
8. Immediately close the Israeli embassy as Israel’s propaganda and lobby outlet in New Zealand
9. Clearly and publicly state that NZDF personnel in the Middle East will neither participate in nor provide assistance to either US or Israel attacks or preparations for attacks on Iran
10. Publicly join other countries in condemning the Israeli military attack on UNIFIL and demand of Israel that it will cease to demand UNIFIL withdraw from any of its positions in Lebanon
11. Reiterate New Zealand’s participation in UNTSO and demand that Israel allow UNTSO continue its work unmolested
12. Demand Israel revoke its declaration that the UN Secretary General is persona non grata in Israel.
13. Note and support this UN report https://www.ohchr.org/en/press-releases/2024/10/un-commission-finds-war-crimes-and-crimes-against-humanity-israeli-attacks
Please respond to this letter urgently.

John Minto

National Chair

Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa.

Nationwide rallies/marches/MP protests/vigils this week

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

North Island

Opononi – Gathering for Palestine

Sunday 20 October

1.30pm

Opononi (outside the Four Square)

Kerikeri – Rally

Saturday 19 October

No Rally this weekend

Whangarei – Rally

Saturday 19 October

No Rally this weekend

Auckland – Picket

Friday 18 October

12:00 noon

New World Devonport –

35 Bartley Terrace, Devonport,

Waiheke – Market Stall – hosted by Stand With Palestine Waiheke!

Every Saturday

8:00 am – 1:00 pm

Ostend Market, Waiheke Island

Auckland – Banners around Tamaki Makaurau

Saturday 19 October

10:00 am

Text John on 021 899 659 for location

Auckland – Central Bike Ride for Palestine

Saturday 19 October

Meet at 12.45 to leave (ride to the rally) at 1.10pm

Western Park. Ponsonby Road

Auckland – Rally

Saturday 19 October

2:00 pm

Te Komititanga – Britomart Square, Tamaki Makaurau

Then travel to Browns Bay for the Prayer Vigil for Gaza

Auckland – Prayer Vigil @ Erica Stanford’s Office

Aotearoa Christians for peace in Palestine will hold a Prayer Vigil to mark a year since the Israeli airstrike on St Porphyrius Church in Gaza City

Saturday 19 October

4:00 pm

85 Beach Front Lane, Browns Bay, Auckland

https://www.facebook.com/events/s/vigil-for-gaza-st-porphyrius-c/1056552113142463/

Auckland – Movie – The Last Sky

Saturday 19 October

7:00 pm

Trades Hall auditorium – 147 Great North Road, Grey Lynn

Limited seats. Tickets essential

Admission by Koha

https://events.humanitix.com/the-last-sky

Director Nicholas Hanna will have a Q&A after the movie

Thames – Vigil to Stop the war on Children

(Hosted by The Basket – Social and Environmental Justice – Hauraki)

First Saturday of the month

Tauranga – Flag wave

Sunday 20 October

11:00 am

SH2 Bethlehem – By Woolworths

Hamilton – Rally for Palestine

Saturday 19 October

1:00 pm

Civic Square, Hamilton

Whaingaroa/Raglan

To be advised

Cambridge – Rally for Palestine

Every Saturday

11:00 am

Cambridge Town Hall

Rotorua – Rally for Palestine

Every Thursday

4:00 pm

Rotorua Lakes Council, Haupapa Street (Sir Howard Morrison Corner)

Gisborne – Farmers Market – Vigil to Stop the war on Children

Every Saturday

9:30 – 11:30 am

Gisborne Farmers Market

Napier – Rally for Palestine

Saturday 19 October

11:30 am

Marine Parade Soundshell Roundabout

Hastings – Rally for Palestine

Sunday 20 October

1:00 pm

Hastings Town Clock – Hastings CBD

Palmerston North – Rally for Palestine

Sunday 20 October

2:00 pm

The Square, Palmerston North

New Plymouth – Flags on the Bridge

Friday 18 September

4:30 pm

Paynters Ave Bridge, New Plymouth

New Plymouth – Rally and March

Saturday 19 October

1:00 PM

The Landing, 1 Ariki Street, New Plymouth

Whanganui – Rally for Palestine

Saturday 19 October

11:00 am

Riverside Market, Whanganui

Carterton – Gathering for Gaza

Every Tuesday

12:00 midday

Memorial Square.

Martinborough – Vigil for Palestine

Every Wednesday

11:00 am

The square at the top of Kitchener St, Martinborough

Masterton – Gathering for Gaza

Every Sunday

9:30 am

Town Hall Lawn, Masterton

Featherston – Gathering for Gaza

Every Saturday

11:00 am

The Squircle (opposite the op shop).

Wellington – Vigil for Palestine (by Aotearoa Healthcare Workers for Palestine)

Every Friday

6:00 pm

In front of Wellington Hospital

49 Riddiford Street, Newtown, Wellington

Wellington – Flags on the Bridge

(hosted by the Falastin Tea Collective)

Every Friday

7:15 – 8:15 am

Hill Street bridge Overbridge, Wellington

Wellington – Rally

(hosted by the Falastin Tea Collective)

Saturday 19 October

1:00 – 2:00 pm

Meet at Glover Park and Hikoi down Cuba Mall and back to Glover Park

South Island

Nelson – Rally for Palestine

Saturday 19 October

10:30 am

Rocks Road by the beach

Blenheim – Rally for Palestine

Saturday 19 October

11:00 am

Blenheim Railway Station

Christchurch – Nobela Protest

Thursday 17

11:45 am

Foodstuffs Headquarters

167 Main North Road, Northcote, Christchurch

Christchurch- Flag Waving for Palestine

Friday 18 October

4:00 pm

Bridge of Remembrance, Cashel Street, Christchurch

Christchurch – Rally and March

Saturday 19 October

1:00 – 2:00 pm

Bridge of Remembrance, Cashel Street, Christchurch

Timaru

No Rally this weekend

Dunedin – Rally and March

Saturday 19 October

No Rally this weekend

Queenstown
No Rally this weekend

Invercargill – Rally for Palestine

Sunday 20 October

1:00 pm

Wachner place Invercargill.

MIL OSI New Zealand News –
January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI China: Jakarta-Bandung high-speed railway transports 5.79 mln passengers in first year

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

Passengers board a high-speed electrical multiple unit (EMU) train on a platform of Padalarang Station along the Jakarta-Bandung High-Speed Railway (HSR) in Padalarang, Indonesia, Oct. 17, 2024. The Jakarta-Bandung HSR, celebrating its first anniversary on Thursday, has transported 5.79 million passengers, according to PT Kereta Cepat Indonesia-China (KCIC), a joint venture between Indonesian and Chinese enterprises that built and operates the railway. Since its commercial launch in October 2023, the HSR has completed over 15,826 train trips, covering more than 2.57 million kilometers. The number of daily train services has increased from 14 at the start of operations to 52, with passenger seats rising from 8,400 to over 31,000. The highest daily ridership reached 24,132, according to KCIC statistics. [Photo/Xinhua]

JAKARTA, Oct. 17 — The Jakarta-Bandung High-Speed Railway (HSR), celebrating its first anniversary on Thursday, has transported 5.79 million passengers, according to PT Kereta Cepat Indonesia-China (KCIC), a joint venture between Indonesian and Chinese enterprises that built and operates the railway.

Since its commercial launch in October 2023, the HSR has completed over 15,826 train trips, covering more than 2.57 million kilometers. The number of daily train services has increased from 14 at the start of operations to 52, with passenger seats rising from 8,400 to over 31,000. The highest daily ridership reached 24,132, according to KCIC statistics.

The HSR is fully powered by electricity, significantly reducing fuel consumption and emissions. The KCIC said that the green energy initiative saves Indonesia around 3.2 trillion rupiahs (208 million U.S. dollars) annually in fuel costs.

In addition, Indonesian government data indicated that between 2019 and 2023, the project contributed 86.5 trillion rupiahs (about 5.62 billion dollars) to the GDP of Jakarta and West Java.

With a design speed of 350 km per hour, the 142.3-km high-speed railway has cut travel time between Jakarta and Bandung from over three hours to just 46 minutes.

Indonesian and Chinese staff members of China Railway Electrification Bureau Group Co., Ltd., one of the companies which take part in the construction of the Jakarta-Bandung High-Speed Railway (HSR), pose for photos with a high-speed electrical multiple unit (EMU) train on a platform of Halim Station along the railway in Jakarta, Indonesia, Oct. 17, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

An aerial drone photo taken on Oct. 12, 2024 shows a high-speed electrical multiple unit (EMU) train running along the line of Jakarta-Bandung High-Speed Railway (HSR) near Karawang Station, West Java, Indonesia. [Photo/Xinhua]

Passengers walk on a platform of Halim Station along the Jakarta-Bandung High-Speed Railway (HSR) in Jakarta, Indonesia, Oct. 17, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

Train cabin crew members walk in a running high-speed electrical multiple unit (EMU) train of the Jakarta-Bandung High-Speed Railway (HSR) in Indonesia, Oct. 17, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

A passenger takes selfie photos with a high-speed electrical multiple unit (EMU) train on a platform of Padalarang Station along the Jakarta-Bandung High-Speed Railway (HSR) in Padalarang, Indonesia, Oct. 17, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

A high-speed electrical multiple unit (EMU) train enters the Padalarang Station along the Jakarta-Bandung High-Speed Railway (HSR) in Padalarang, Indonesia, Oct. 17, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

Passengers walk on a platform of Padalarang Station along the Jakarta-Bandung High-Speed Railway (HSR) in Padalarang, Indonesia, Oct. 17, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

An aerial drone photo taken on Sept. 13, 2024 shows high-speed electrical multiple unit (EMU) trains stopping at a platform of Tegalluar Summarecon Station along the Jakarta-Bandung High-Speed Railway (HSR) in Bandung, Indonesia. [Photo/Xinhua]

MIL OSI China News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI China: China boasts robust industrial ecosystem for intelligent connected vehicles

Source: China State Council Information Office

This photo taken on Oct. 17, 2024 shows new energy vehicle model SU7 produced by Chinese tech firm Xiaomi displayed during the 2024 World Intelligent Connected Vehicles Conference in Beijing, capital of China. [Photo/Xinhua]

A comprehensive industrial system for China’s intelligent connected vehicle sector has basically taken shape, covering products and technologies such as basic chips, sensors, computing platforms and chassis control, Minister of Industry and Information Technology Jin Zhuanglong said Thursday.

Jin made the remarks during the opening ceremony of the 2024 World Intelligent Connected Vehicles Conference in Beijing.

China leads the world in human-machine interaction and is rapidly advancing toward breakthroughs in technologies like steer-by-wire and active suspension technologies, among others, the minister noted.

According to him, the country’s intelligent connected vehicle sector currently boasts nearly 400 “little giant” firms, or novel elites of small and medium-sized enterprises that are engaged in manufacturing, specialize in a niche market and hold cutting-edge technologies.

Five Chinese lidar companies have ranked among the global top ten in sales, while nine automotive manufacturers are piloting conditionally automated driving models, Jin said.

To support such rapid industrial development, more than 50 cities in China have designated over 32,000 kilometers of test routes for intelligent connected vehicles and upgraded about 10,000 kilometers of roads with smart technologies.

The 2024 World Intelligent Connected Vehicles Conference, running from Oct. 17 to 19, has attracted over 250 auto firms and institutions from home and abroad. More than 200 new technologies and products are expected to make their debut at the event.

MIL OSI China News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI China: China to improve economic, trade cooperation with Vietnam

Source: China State Council Information Office

China will work to enhance economic and trade cooperation with Vietnam, a spokesperson for China’s Ministry of Commerce said on Thursday.

Spokesperson He Yadong told a press conference that China is Vietnam’s largest trade partner, while Vietnam is China’s largest trade partner among the Association of Southeast Asian Nations.

From January to September 2024, trade volume between the two countries reached 190.38 billion U.S. dollars, up 17.6 percent year on year.

Vietnam is an important overseas investment destination for China. In the first eight months, direct investment by Chinese enterprises in Vietnam totaled 1.97 billion dollars, maintaining rapid growth.

Efforts will be made to both explore and pilot the establishment of cross-border economic cooperation zones, expanding cooperation in emerging fields such as information technology, new energy and digital economy, the spokesperson said.

Enterprises from the two countries will be supported to make full use of platforms like the China International Import Expo, the China Import and Export Fair and the China-ASEAN Expo to expand trade of agricultural and aquatic products, as well as manufactured industrial products, He said.

Measures will also be taken to deepen cooperation related to supply chains and regional economic integration, He added.

MIL OSI China News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI China: ECB cuts rates by 25 basis points as inflation fades

Source: China State Council Information Office

This photo taken on July 27, 2023 shows the Euro sign in Frankfurt, Germany. [Photo/Xinhua]

The European Central Bank (ECB) decided on Thursday to lower three key interest rates by 25 basis points, its third rates cut this year, saying that disinflationary process is “well on track.”

The interest rates on the deposit facility, the main refinancing operations and the marginal lending facility will be decreased to 3.25 percent, 3.4 percent and 3.65 percent respectively, with effect from Oct. 23.

The ECB does not expect recession in the eurozone despite economic difficulties in some states, the bank’s President Christine Lagarde said at a press conference after the ECB Governing Council meeting in Slovenia.

The decision to cut interest rates is based on the bank’s updated assessment of the inflation outlook, the dynamics of underlying inflation and the strength of monetary policy transmission, she said. “The incoming information on inflation shows that the disinflationary process is well on track.”

Despite predicted inflation rise in the coming months, Lagarde said the ECB is determined to ensure that inflation return to the 2-percent medium term target in the course of next year. “We will keep policy rates sufficiently restricted for as long as necessary to achieve this aim.”

The eurozone’s annual inflation rate is projected to drop to 1.8 percent in September, down from 2.2 percent in August, according to Eurostat. This marks the first time in three years that inflation has fallen below the ECB’s target.

Lagarde did not specify when further rate cuts might be expected, noting that decisions are data-dependent.

The next ECB Governing Council monetary policy meeting is scheduled for Dec. 12 in Frankfurt.

The ECB cut key interest rates for the first time in five years by 25 basis points in June and again in September.

MIL OSI China News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI China: Tesla yet to receive regulatory green light for FSD in China

Source: China State Council Information Office

Multiple sources told China Daily that Tesla Inc has yet to receive regulatory approval from Chinese authorities to launch its full self-driving or FSD functions in the country and is seeking permission to gather some data on its own to train its autonomous driving system.

The United States vehicle maker announced last month on the social platform that it expected to launch FSD in China in the first quarter of 2025. “The rollout progress is not expected to mirror the speed as the company itself planned,” several sources close to the matter confirmed.

They said that the proposal is still pending from various Chinese authorities to evaluate in an all-round way, including technology, data safety, laws and regulations, as well as other relevant standards.

Though no official green light has been given as of now, the Chinese government will partially support its trial test of FSD functions in some cities, the sources day.

As data security has been a key obstacle to a full rollout of FSD, two people close to Tesla said that Musk has proposed directly accessing some non-sensitive video data to train its autonomous driving system.

He also proactively suggested that a dedicated government team could thoroughly assess this video data to ensure its security, one of the sources said.

Other people acknowledged the matter and said that Chinese authorities didn’t give an immediate response to this request given the current rules and regulations.

According to the regulations of the Ministry of Natural Resources, automakers and developers of autonomous driving software should either apply for mapping licenses or ask a licensed company to collect, store, transform and process geographic data.

Currently, foreign firms lack the qualifications to independently gather geographic data and must partner with local entities.

To comply, Tesla has stored all data collected by its Chinese vehicles in China since 2021 and is cooperating with local companies to collect data to support its driver assistant system.

MIL OSI China News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI China: 8M in China’s big cities commute over 50 km daily: Report

Source: China State Council Information Office 2

Vehicles run on Jianguo Road during morning peak hours in Chaoyang District of Beijing, capital of China, Jan. 3, 2023. [Photo/Xinhua]
In China’s 22 most populous cities, long-distance commuters still face challenges, with more than 8 million people commuting over 50 km each day, according to a report released Thursday.
The finding comes from the commuting monitoring report of major cities in China, released by a research institute under the Ministry of Housing and Urban-Rural Development, in collaboration with the China Academy of Urban Planning & Design.
Covering 45 major Chinese cities with rail transit, the report shows that among the 22 cities with a population exceeding 5 million, Beijing has the highest proportion of long-distance commuters, with 12 percent traveling over 50 kilometers, followed by Guangzhou at 10 percent.
In terms of one-way commuting time, 28 percent of commuters travel for over 60 minutes in the Chinese capital, while in Shanghai, Chongqing, Tianjin, Wuhan and Qingdao, more than 15 percent of commuters fall into this category.
One such commuter is a 46-year-old individual surnamed Sun. Every weekday, he leaves his home in Tianjin, a 13.6-million-people municipality neighboring Beijing, around 6 a.m., drives to a parking spot near Tianjin Railway Station, then switches to high-speed rail and subway to reach his workplace in Beijing — an almost two-hour, one-way commute that he has maintained for a decade.
“I spend about 12 hours outside each day, but there’s no other choice,” Sun said, adding that he commutes rather than renting an apartment in Beijing mainly because he wants to accompany his child who is attending a junior high school in Tianjin.
For many long-distance commuters like Sun in the megacities, rail transit services still need improvement.
Although the total area covered by operational rail transit in the 42 surveyed cities with subway services exceeds 10,000 kilometers, only one-fifth of commuters live and work within 800 meters of a station.
“Every 430,000 yuan (about $60,376) invested in rail transit construction results in just one additional person gaining access to the 800-meter range,” said Fu Lingfeng, an official of the China Academy of Urban Planning & Design.
Guo Jifu, director of the Beijing Transport Institute, explained that larger cities with a higher proportion of the tertiary industry find it increasingly challenging to balance job locations and housing.
“While planners envision an ideal scenario, the reality is that job-residence separation remains widespread in urban areas,” Guo said.
To improve commuting experiences, Guo proposed measures such as integrating rail transit with urban development, building efficient commuting systems, and encouraging employers to provide housing and adopt flexible work arrangements.
According to Yang Zeng, a professor at Shanghai University, the trend of living and working across cities in China is unique and differs from Western experiences and this phenomenon reflects long-term potential.
“Strategies like city cluster integration are improving transportation and providing young people with more flexibility, enabling them to work in different cities without having to live in the main city center,” Yang said.
For Sun, his hours-long commute is a mix of joy and fatigue. During the journey, he takes short naps, handles work on his phone and occasionally watches short videos. “I can deal with many issues while traveling. It’s a good way to use my time. I’ve gotten used to this lifestyle,” he said.

MIL OSI China News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Submissions: Economy – ECB’s rate cut piles pressure on the Euro

Source: deVere Group

October 17 2024 – The European Central Bank (ECB) has lowered interest rates for the third time this year, as inflation in the eurozone shows signs of easing and the economy struggles to regain momentum.

With money markets now expecting three more rate cuts by March 2025, the euro is likely to face prolonged downward pressure, predicts the CEO of one of the world’s largest independent financial organizations.

The prediction from deVere Group’s Nigel Green follows Thursday’s quarter-point rate cut, which brings the deposit rate down to 3.25%.

He says: “This is the first time in 13 years that the ECB has delivered consecutive rate cuts, marking a pivotal moment for both the eurozone economy and global investors.

“Lower interest rates make a currency less appealing to investors as they reduce returns on assets denominated in that currency.

“As the ECB continues to signal further rate cuts, this trend is expected to intensify. The euro is likely to weaken as investors seek higher returns elsewhere, potentially leading to capital outflows from the eurozone.

“The ECB’s actions indicate a clear shift in focus, from managing inflation to stimulating growth.

“With continued rate cuts on the horizon, the euro is set to remain under pressure for the foreseeable future, making this a critical time for investors to assess their portfolios.”

For investors holding euro-denominated assets, a weakening currency could present some challenges, especially for those with international exposure. As the euro depreciates, returns on European investments could decline when converted back into stronger currencies.

However, there are also opportunities, particularly in export-heavy sectors, where a weaker euro makes European goods more competitive on the global market.

“In light of the ECB’s monetary policy approach, we recommend investors take a close look at currency risk and consider hedging strategies if they have significant exposure to the euro,” affirms Nigel Green.

“On the other hand, sectors such as manufacturing and exports could benefit from a more competitive currency.”

For investors looking to take advantage of a weaker euro, diversification into eurozone industries that are less reliant on domestic demand and more focused on exports could prove beneficial. These industries are likely to see growth as their goods become more attractive on the international market, providing opportunities in the face of broader economic stagnation.

The deVere CEO concludes: “Investors should be prepared for sustained euro depreciation and adjust their strategies accordingly.

“The weakening euro could be a double-edged sword, offering opportunities in specific sectors while also requiring a more cautious approach to currency risk.”

deVere Group is one of the world’s largest independent advisors of specialist global financial solutions to international, local mass affluent, and high-net-worth clients. It has a network of offices around the world, more than 80,000 clients, and $12bn under advisement.

MIL OSI – Submitted News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Banking: Lufthansa Group appoints Brendan Shashoua as Lufthansa Group’s Senior Director Sales – Southeast Asia and the Pacific

Source: Lufthansa Group

Brendan Shashoua has been appointed Lufthansa Group’s Senior Director Sales – Southeast Asia and the Pacific. Based in Singapore, he leads Lufthansa Group’s sales force across Southeast Asia and the Pacific region.

Born and raised in Switzerland, Brendan Shashoua began his Lufthansa Group career in revenue management at SWISS in 2011. After 2.5 years, he progressed into sales as a Global Key Account Manager with responsibilities for the management of some of Lufthansa Group’s largest corporate customers. In 2018, he began his first team lead position in Sales Services and Groups in Switzerland where he was responsible for development of the inaugural Lufthansa Group Global Sales Services Competence Center.

In July 2021, he assumed the role of Director of Regional Sales Canada with responsibility for the entire Canadian market, including Lufthansa Group’s successful Joint Venture with United Airlines and Air Canada. Brendan Shashoua is a dual citizen of both Switzerland and the United Kingdom and holds an Executive MBA from Zurich University. He is happily married with one son.

About Lufthansa Group

The Lufthansa Group is an aviation group with operations worldwide. With 100,000+ employees, Lufthansa Group generated revenue of €35.4bn in the financial year 2023. Our largest business segment is Passenger Airlines while other key business segments include Logistics and Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO). Other companies and Group functions such as IT companies and Lufthansa Aviation Training form complimentary components of the Group. All airlines and business segments play leading roles in their respective markets.

MIL OSI Global Banks –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Banking: Transition Finance and Results of the Survey on 10 Asian Financial Authorities’ Initiatives: Climate Finance Dialogue Progress Report

Source: Asia Development Bank

Kasumigaseki Building 8F, 3-2-5, Kasumigaseki, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 100-6008, Japan

About ADBI

The Asian Development Bank Institute was established in 1997 in Tokyo, Japan, to help build capacity, skills, and knowledge related to poverty reduction and other areas that support long-term growth and competitiveness in developing economies in Asia and the Pacific.

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MIL OSI Global Banks –

January 24, 2025
MIL-Evening Report: A giant biotechnology company might be about to go bust. What will happen to the millions of people’s DNA it holds?

Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Megan Prictor, Senior Lecturer in Law, The University of Melbourne

isak55/Shutterstock

Since it was founded nearly two decades ago, 23andMe has grown into one of the largest biotechnology companies in the world. Millions of people have used its simple genetic testing service, which involves ordering a saliva test, spitting into a tube, and sending it back to the company for a detailed DNA analysis.

But now the company is on the brink of bankruptcy. This has raised concerns about what will happen to the troves of genetic data it has in its possession.

The company’s chief executive, Anne Wojcicki, has said she is committed to customer privacy and will “maintain our current privacy policy”.

But what can customers of 23andMe themselves do to make sure their highly personal genetic data is protected? And should we be concerned about other companies that also collect our DNA?

What is 23andMe?

23andMe is one of the largest companies in the crowded marketplace for direct-to-consumer genetic testing. It was founded in 2006 in California, launching its spit test and Personal Genome Service the following year, at an initial cost of US$999. This test won Time magazine’s Invention of the Year in 2008.

Customers eagerly took up the opportunity to order a saliva collection kit online, spit in the tube and mail it back. In a few weeks when the results were ready they could find out about their health, ancestry, and other things like food preferences, fear of public speaking and cheek dimples.

The price of testing kits dropped rapidly (it’s now US$79). The company expanded globally and by 2015 had 1 million customers. The firm went public in 2021 and initially the stock price soared. As of 2024, the company claims 14 million people have taken a 23andMe DNA test.

23andMe is one of the world’s largest biotechnology companies.
T. Schneider/Shutterstock

23andMe rode the wave of popular excitement and investor interest in genetics. It wasn’t alone. By 2022 the direct-to-consumer genetic testing market was valued at US$3 billion. The three largest players – 23andMe, AncestryDNA and MyHeritage – together hold the genetic data of almost 50 million people globally.

There are dozens of smaller players too, with some focusing on emerging markets such as MapMyGenome in India and 23mofang and WeGene in China.

What happened to 23andMe?

23andMe has had a rapid downfall after the 2021 high of its public listing.

Its value has dropped more than 97%. In 2023 it suffered a major data breach affecting almost seven million users, and settled a class action lawsuit for US$30 million.

Last month its seven independent directors resigned amid news the original founder is planning to take the company private once more. The company has never made a profit and is reportedly on the verge of bankruptcy.

What this might mean for its vast stores of genetic data is unclear.

When people sign up for a 23andMe test the company assures them: “your privacy comes first”. It promises it will never share people’s DNA data with employers, insurance companies or public databases without consent. It puts choice in the hands of consumers about whether their spit sample is kept by the company, and whether their de-identified genetic and other data is used in research. Four in five people who bought a 23andMe test have agreed to their data being used in research.

However, if you dig a bit deeper, it’s clear that 23andMe uses people’s data in many different ways, such as sharing it with service providers. Perhaps most importantly, if the company goes bankrupt or is sold, people’s information might be “accessed, sold or transferred” as well.

In a statement to The Conversation, a 23andMe spokesperson said Wojcicki is “not open to considering third-party takeover proposals”, and that in the event of any future ownership change, the company’s existing data privacy agreements with customers “would remain in place unless and until customers are presented with, and agree to, new terms and statements – and only after receiving appropriate notice of any new terms, under applicable data protection laws”.

Tips for people to protect their genetic data

With 23andMe in the spotlight, people might want to take steps to protect their genetic data (although experts say there’s not really any more risk now than there has always been).

The simplest thing is to delete your account, which opts you out of any future research and discards your saliva sample. But if your data has already been de-identified and used in research, it can’t be retrieved. And even if you delete your account, 23andMe says it will keep hold of information including your genetic data, date of birth and sex, to comply with its own legal obligations.

Buying a DNA test online might feel fun and rewarding and it’s certainly been marketed that way. There are plenty of good news stories about how getting those test results has helped people to connect with lost family or understand more about their health risks. People just need to buy tests with their eyes open about what this might mean.

First, the results might not be all positive. Finding out about health risks without guidance from a health professional can be scary. Learning that the person you thought was your mum or dad actually isn’t, is an outcome for as many as 1 in 20 people who’ve bought a DNA test online.

Second, every company selling DNA tests does so with lots of legal conditions attached. People click through these without a second thought but researchers have shown it is worth taking a closer look. Consider what the company says about what it will do with your data and your sample, how long they will keep it, who else can access it, and how easy it will be to delete later.

There are guidelines from organisations like Australian Genomics that can help. And bear in mind that if a company holding your DNA profile is sold, it might be hard to make sure that data is protected.

So maybe reconsider giving a DNA test as a Christmas gift.

Megan Prictor is a member of the International Association of Privacy Professionals and the Australasian Association of Bioethics and Health Law.

– ref. A giant biotechnology company might be about to go bust. What will happen to the millions of people’s DNA it holds? – https://theconversation.com/a-giant-biotechnology-company-might-be-about-to-go-bust-what-will-happen-to-the-millions-of-peoples-dna-it-holds-241557

MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

January 24, 2025
MIL-Evening Report: When does the love of the game outweigh the cost? ABC’s Plum brings rugby league’s concussion crisis to the fore

Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle O’Shea, Senior Lecturer, School of Business, Western Sydney University

ABC

Brendan Cowell’s 2021 novel Plum has expertly wed two seemingly unnatural partners: rugby league and poetry. Cowell’s story is both an ode of love to rugby league, and a powerful exploration of the catastrophic effects of sport-induced brain injury.

This story has now been brought to life in an ABC drama of the same name. It brilliantly reflects the experience of many players who are left to suffer – often in silence – with the long-term costs of the game.

A theatre of damage revealed

Our introduction to the main character, Peter “The Plum” Lum (played by Cowell), is jarring. Plum’s body lies motionless in a darkened changing room, enveloped by the distant sounds of a roaring stadium full of fans, a sharp referee’s whistle and the commentator’s pitched voice: “this poor bloke, he has had his head absolutely battered”.

We watch the doctor’s light worryingly cast to and fro across Plum’s dazed gaze, while his heavily pregnant wife’s concerned face looms large. Much larger, however, is the coach’s demand: “get the salts doc” – and his insistence that “the only way he (Plum) isn’t going back out there (on the field) is if he is fucking dead”.

And so the act proceeds, with Plum, like many athletes before and after him, returning heroically to the field. Though his team is victorious – another trophy retained – we’re forced to consider the unspoken costs of his love for the game.

These costs are amplified once the adoration from Plum’s fans and teammates, and his mantle as Cronulla’s king, are no more. We come to know a shell of a man who is desperate to deny, despite the advice of his doctor, the cognitive and other effects of the “little jolts” and “hard head knocks” experienced throughout his career.

The intensity with which Plum keeps his health condition a secret, and the ongoing abuse he levels on his body, provide a window into the lived experiences of many rugby league players. While this game gives, it also takes more than its fair share.

Asher Keddie stars as Plum’s former wife, Renee.
ABC

Masculinity and collision sports

The series highlights the emerging scientific link between collision sports such as rugby league and degenerative brain conditions including CTE-induced dementia – as well as attempts to discredit this science and silence the voices of athletes and families seeking redress from league administrators.

Contact and collision sports have often required athletes to sacrifice their brains and bodies in the pursuit of glory and success.

While a diagnosis of the degenerative brain disease Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) can only be made posthumously, Plum displays many of the hallmark symptoms: impaired judgement, impulse control issues, aggression, depression and anxiety.

Viewers are taken into the deep fog of this existence. As a 1990s playmaker, Plum had fame but not fortune. Nearing 50, working at an airport, we see a traumatic near-miss as he experiences an epileptic seizure.

His forgetfulness leaves him unable to remember his favourite player’s name at a Cronulla Sharks corporate event. He suffers confusion and anxiety. Aggressive acts, including punching holes in bedroom walls, become his daily pain and shame.

Plum’s absent father’s advice to “never take a backwards step” also echoes throughout the series, reflecting the deeply embedded view of rugby league as a hard sport played by equally hard men.

This hard man veneer is grounded in stoicism – and for Plum and his former teammates, in unhealthy addictions to gambling, drugs and grog. Plum repels his family and friends, making his world intentionally small for fear he might forget something or someone. The series brings to the fore the raw and visceral effects of hypermasculinity and not speaking out.

Cowell himself hails from the Sydney suburb of Cronulla, where the show is set.
ABC

Rugby league and poetry

The series also features poetry and the presence of past literary figures (conjured in Plum’s mind) such as Charles Bukowski and Sylvia Plath. As viewers, we see Plum’s internal dialogues with these apparitions, but his family and friends can’t.

Plum also joins a local poetry group, where his decaying brain finds purpose and connection. This unlikely outlet becomes his therapy. It comforts him and provides him a space to communicate his experiences with the outside world. Through his ode to rugby league, we witness him come closer to clarity.

Read more:
Why a portrait of a former NRL great could spark greater concussion awareness in Australia

All the while, Plum’s son is a talented player on the verge of a professional rugby league contract. And although Plum doesn’t regret a minute of his playing career, his prognosis leaves him urging his son away from the sport’s theatre of damage. This is a decision echoed by many parents in real life.

The future of collision sports

Reflecting on the potential impact of his book and the ABC series, Cowell imagines a space where the competitive commercial rivalries between football codes such as AFL, rugby union and soccer are suspended.

Instead of competing for a greater share of the market via trivial one-upmanship, sport leagues could pool their resources to invest in science that helps us understand and prevent sport-induced brain trauma.

Considering how many rugby players conceal and/or fail to report concussive episodes, we’ll need a major cultural shakeup at all levels of the game – because a love for the game should never come at the expense of oneself.

The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

– ref. When does the love of the game outweigh the cost? ABC’s Plum brings rugby league’s concussion crisis to the fore – https://theconversation.com/when-does-the-love-of-the-game-outweigh-the-cost-abcs-plum-brings-rugby-leagues-concussion-crisis-to-the-fore-240550

MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Governor Walz Announces $200 Million Manufacturing Expansion in Duluth

Source: US State of Minnesota

Governor Tim Walz today announced that the manufacturer Sofidel will make a $200 million expansion in Duluth, supported by $5 million in business expansion funding from the State of Minnesota. The expansion will create at least 160 new jobs, tripling the company’s current workforce size.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: UTAS Inveresk precinct complete with the opening of The Shed

Source: Australian Ministers for Education

The University of Tasmania (UTAS) today celebrated the opening of its latest facilities, penning a new chapter in the life of one of Australia’s oldest universities – supported by funding from all three levels of government.

The Shed, the last of three new buildings at UTAS’s redeveloped Inveresk campus at Launceston, is set to receive students from semester one next year.

Centrally located opposite City Park, The Shed is the largest of UTAS’s three new facilities, and includes a variety of specialised allied health clinics, science labs and nursing simulation facilities.

The facility will host community health education programs, professional development workshops, sports science testing and wellbeing initiatives, as well as a range of community activities and events.

The $97 million project was delivered as part of the $304 million relocation and redevelopment of UTAS’s main Launceston campus from Newnham to Inveresk – which is expected to increase student numbers to 10,000 by 2032.

This transformation was jointly funded, with $130 million from the Australian Government, $108.6 million from UTAS, $60 million from the Tasmanian Government and $5.4 million from the City of Launceston – as part of the $609.4 million Launceston City Deal.

Quotes attributable to Federal Minister for Education, Jason Clare MP:

“Congratulations to the Vice-Chancellor, staff and students on the opening of The Shed right here in the heart of Launceston.

“This new building will help train more nurses and health workers and support more people in Northern Tasmania to get a crack at going to uni.”

Quotes attributable to Federal Minister for Regional Development and Local Government, Kristy McBain MP:

“As someone that had to leave home to attend university, I know how important it is to have education opportunities locally, especially in our regions – because postcodes shouldn’t be a barrier for your future.

“Having toured this campus last year, I know its central location and high-quality facilities will boost attendance numbers – with 2,400 students already moving to the Inveresk precinct, and around 4,000 students expected from early next year.”

Quotes attributable to Tasmanian Minister for Education, Jo Palmer:

“The Shed is an important piece of infrastructure, but it’s what will occur within its walls and upon this new campus that is most important.

“This project provides exciting opportunities for our young people embarking on their journey of lifelong learning and also for the wider community.

“Being able to stay in Tasmania and study new courses such as speech pathology, physiotherapy and occupational therapy is so important for our young people.”

Quotes attributable to Tasmanian Minister for Business, Industry and Resources, Eric Abetz MP:

“The completion of The Shed is a significant milestone in the Northern Transformation Project. This state-of-the-art facility is a testament to what can be achieved when all levels of government, the University of Tasmania, and the local community work in unison for a common goal.

“This transformation project is not just about new buildings, it’s about creating an environment that fosters innovation, learning, and growth, with benefits extending well beyond the university’s walls and into the community.

“It is exciting to see the tangible outcomes of this investment driving significant economic activity across the region—creating jobs, supporting local industries, and delivering long-term benefits to the Tasmanian economy.”

Quotes attributable to Federal Labor Senator for Tasmania, Helen Polley:

“We continue to deliver the projects that people in Launceston and across Northern Tasmania deserve – with this transformative campus to ensure people can study in-demand qualifications at home.

“With the expected influx of new students into Launceston in the coming years, our investment in the University’s presence at Inveresk will support new jobs and stimulate our local economy long into the future.”

Quotes attributable to City of Launceston Mayor Matthew Garwood:

“The completion of UTAS’s campus is an amazing milestone for the city and region.

“Launceston’s CBD has been transformed by the relocation of UTAS’s campus to Inveresk into a vibrant and dynamic precinct.

“We have seen how the relocation has given confidence to nearby investments in the city, including our own redevelopment of the iconic Albert Hall.

“Inveresk has now become a really colourful and contemporary part of Launceston, with its links to QVMAG, UTAS Stadium and our CBD.”

MIL OSI News –

January 24, 2025

Category: Business

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A theatre of damage revealed

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