NewzIntel.com

Category: Canada

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Government of Canada invests $535,000 to modernize and expand Muskoka North Good Food Co-op

    Source: Government of Canada News

    Today, the Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Indigenous Services and Minister responsible for FedNor, announced a Government of Canada investment of $535,000 to help Muskoka North Good Food Co-op purchase new equipment and expand to meet demand.

    FedNor funding to support jobs, agriculture and food security in the region

    October 16, 2024 – Huntsville, ON – Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario – FedNor

    Today, the Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Indigenous Services and Minister responsible for FedNor, announced a Government of Canada investment of $535,000 to help Muskoka North Good Food Co-op purchase new equipment and expand to meet demand.

    Provided through FedNor’s Northern Ontario Development Program, this targeted investment will allow the organization to acquire a second modular farm pod, purchase and install a walk-in cooler and freezer, and establish a micro-bakery. This strategic initiative is helping the co-op double in size, increase profitability, enhance efficiencies, and create five full-time jobs. Once complete, this priority project will help ensure local families have improved access to safe, reliable, fresh and nutritious foods.

    Based in Huntsville, Muskoka North Good Food Co-op places community benefit alongside profitability and connects local farmers to a growing consumer base through a grocery retail market, café, and commercial production kitchen. As a community-owned grocery store & food hub, the co-op provides sustainable, ethical, and good food for the communities it serves.

    “Today’s investment of $535,000 will support Northern Ontario’s agriculture industry and ensure that local families in Huntsville and Muskoka will have consistent access to safe, reliable, fresh and nutritious foods from local famers and producers throughout the region.”

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

    “We’re proud to be building capacity by expanding Muskoka North Good Food Co-op at this stage in our development, and FedNor funding was pivotal in helping make this happen! At the heels of our Co-op’s 7th Anniversary, the grand opening of our newly expanded space will be a celebration of co-operative dedication, collaboration and regional food systems growth. We’ll be unveiling an array of new equipment and upgraded facilities which will allow us to create greater impact and better serve health conscious families and community members. Supporting our region’s farm and agri-food producers continues to make it easier for people to access fresh, nutritious foods while building a strong and sustainable agri-food sector in Muskoka.”

    –       Kelli Ebbs, Manager, Muskoka North Good Food Co-op

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

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: The Announcement of Two Proposed Initiatives for Protecting the Waters of Eastern James Bay

    Source: Government of Canada News

    Quebec, October 16, 2024. – The Grand Chief of the Grand Council of the Crees (Eeyou Itschee) and Chairperson of the Cree Nation Government, Mandy Gull-Masty, the Minister of the Environment and Climate Change and the Minister responsible for Parks Canada, the Honourable Steven Guilbeault, and the Quebec Minister of the Environment, the Fight against Climate Change, Wildlife and Parks and Minister responsible for the Laurentides region, Benoit Charette, invite media representatives to a press conference where two important announcements will be shared regarding the waters of eastern James Bay.

    Date:  Friday, October 18th at 2:30 p.m.

     

    Location:  Quebec region

    Media representatives must confirm their presence by emailing relations.medias@environnement.gouv.qc.ca before 2 p.m. on October 18th. The exact location where the event will be held will only be confirmed to accredited journalists.

                                                                                                          -30-

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI: Wawanesa Accepting Applications for Community Wildfire Prevention Grants

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    WINNIPEG, Manitoba, Oct. 16, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — To help Canadians safeguard their communities from the threat of wildfires, Wawanesa Insurance is offering $150,000 in Community Wildfire Prevention Grants in partnership with FireSmart Canada and the Institute for Catastrophic Loss Reduction. The deadline to apply for the Community Wildfire Prevention Grants is November 29, 2024.

    The initiative is part of Wawanesa’s commitment to building stronger, more resilient communities through its Climate Champions Program, which provides $2 million annually to support people on the front lines of climate change. Through the Community Wildfire Prevention Grants, up to $15,000 will be provided to as many as 10 organizations working to make a difference.

    “This summer’s devastating wildfire season was another stark reminder of the growing concern over climate change and its profound impact on the environment,” said Jackie De Pape Hornick, Director of Communications & Community Impact at Wawanesa. “As a mutual insurer, we have a critical role to play in protecting our communities. By providing local organizations with the support needed to proactively implement wildfire prevention measures, Wawanesa is helping build a safer, healthier, more sustainable future.”

    This is the third straight year Wawanesa has offered Community Wildfire Prevention Grants. Some of the previous recipients include rural municipalities, Indigenous communities, residents’ associations, and volunteer fire departments. Funding allocated through the grant program has supported a wide range of activities, from vegetation management programs and community risk assessments to public awareness events and wildfire education campaigns.

    All submissions for Community Wildfire Prevention Grants will be evaluated by a committee of wildfire prevention experts from Wawanesa, FireSmart Canada, and ICLR, with funding recipients announced in March 2025. For project eligibility and application criteria, please visit wawanesa.com/wildfire-grants.

    About The Wawanesa Mutual Insurance Company
    The Wawanesa Mutual Insurance Company, founded in 1896, is one of Canada’s largest mutual insurers, with over $3.5 billion in annual revenue and assets of $10 billion. Wawanesa Mutual, with its National Headquarters in Winnipeg, is the parent company of Wawanesa Life, which provides life insurance products and services throughout Canada, and Western Financial Group, which distributes personal and business insurance across Canada. Wawanesa proudly serves more than 1.7 million members in Canada. The company actively gives back to organizations that strengthen communities, donating more than $3.5 million annually to charitable organizations, including over $2 million annually in support of people on the front lines of climate change. Learn more at wawanesa.com.

    For more information:
    Michel Rosset
    Manager, Corporate Communications & Media Relations
    The Wawanesa Mutual Insurance Company
    media@wawanesa.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: B.C. election: Party proposals on climate action point in opposite directions

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Kathryn Harrison, Professor of Political Science, University of British Columbia

    With affordability, housing and health care at the top of voters’ minds in British Columbia, they haven’t heard much about climate change with less than a week to go until the provincial election.

    In fact, between B.C. Conservative Leader John Rustad acknowledging that “man” is impacting the climate and the NDP’s reversal on the carbon tax, casual observers might conclude that the parties have converged on climate.

    But a closer look at the platforms and policy announcements of the province’s Conservatives, New Democrats and Greens reveals fundamental differences on almost every climate-related policy.

    While there is uncertainty about how much B.C.’s emissions would decline under another NDP government, they would almost certainly increase under a new Conservative one.

    Climate action measures

    The parties differ on the threat posed by climate change and urgency of action. The NDP and Green platforms both acknowledge the “climate crisis,” and each devotes a chapter on protecting communities from extreme weather, such as flooding, wildfires and heat domes like the one that occurred in 2021.



    Read more:
    How an ‘atmospheric river’ drenched British Columbia and led to floods and mudslides

    In contrast, the Conservatives claim climate change is not a crisis and that wildfires are a natural occurrence, without acknowledging how the blazes are amplified by climate change-driven heat and drought. The party favours adaptation technology over a “doom cult” perspective.

    The three parties also present very different visions of B.C.’s economic future. Both the NDP and Greens emphasize the province’s comparative advantage in clean energy, and commit to skills training for the renewable energy and clean tech sectors.

    In contrast, the Conservative proposal for a “free and prosperous” B.C. does not mention climate change or clean energy, while the party’s “clean energy” announcement embraces natural gas heating and oil-powered vehicles.

    The Conservatives propose to scrap “any and all carbon taxes,” which suggests both the consumer and industrial carbon taxes. Although the party indicates it would do so “regardless of what happens in Ottawa,” the current federal government would respond by imposing both federal carbon taxes, as it has in other provinces.

    The NDP would repeal only the consumer tax if the federal government does. The Greens would retain both taxes and remove sectoral benchmarks below which industrial polluters don’t pay the tax.

    On electricity, the NDP proposes to double renewable electricity capacity by 2050 to substitute for declining consumption of fossil fuels. The party highlights BC Hydro’s recent call for clean power, which yielded proposals for triple the capacity originally sought.

    The Greens similarly propose to expand rooftop solar and other renewables. The Conservatives welcome “all power sources,” including renewables, but also natural gas plants and nuclear.

    Flood waters cover highway 1 in Abbotsford, B.C., in November 2021.
    THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jonathan Hayward

    Managing emissions

    Transportation contributes the largest share of B.C.’s emissions at 35 per cent. The Conservatives would repeal the zero-emissions vehicle mandate and low-carbon fuel standard. The other two parties would retain those policies, and both commit to expanding electric vehicle charging networks.

    Oil and gas accounts for the next largest share of B.C.’s emissions at 20 per cent. The NDP election platform commits to implement a cap on oil and gas emissions. In addition, the NDP government announced in 2023 that future liquid natural gas (LNG) approvals will be conditional on net-zero operations within the province.

    The Conservative Party seeks to double LNG capacity, without mention of either an oil-and-gas cap or net-zero commitment. For their part, the Greens would reject all future LNG development, ban fracking and manage a decline of gas production.

    Buildings contribute another 15 per cent of provincial emissions. The NDP government has published documents that propose provincewide adoption of a zero-emission standard for new buildings and high-efficiency heating equipment standards that would significantly reduce gas consumption in existing buildings.

    The NDP and Greens both promise financial support for rooftop solar, home retrofits and heat pumps. In contrast, the Conservatives argue, without evidence, that the grid cannot support heat pumps and promise to repeal the voluntary zero-carbon building code and a “ban” on natural gas heating.

    B.C. has been a climate laggard

    B.C. has been slow to act on climate. That will make it very challenging to meet our 2030 emissions target.

    But progress will only be made by strengthening climate policies, something both the NDP and Greens commit to do.

    In contrast, the Conservatives promise to repeal current climate policies and halt development of others. But with a growing population and plans for LNG expansion, B.C.’s emissions would increase rather than decline under that strategy.

    As B.C. voters prepare to cast their ballots this week, they’ve got a lot to contemplate on climate.

    Kathryn Harrison receives funding from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada. She is chair of the mitigation advisory panel of the Canadian Climate Institute, and a member of British Columbia’s Climate Solutions Council, but her comments do not represent either body nor the University of British Columbia.

    – ref. B.C. election: Party proposals on climate action point in opposite directions – https://theconversation.com/b-c-election-party-proposals-on-climate-action-point-in-opposite-directions-241334

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: This year’s Nobel prize exposes economics’ problem with colonialism

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Jostein Hauge, Assistant Professor in Development Studies, University of Cambridge

    Bumble Dee / Shutterstock

    Daron Acemoglu, Simon Johnson and James Robinson have been awarded the 2024 Nobel memorial prize in economics for their influential work on how institutions shape economic development. Some would say the decision to award these scholars the Nobel was long overdue.

    The paper that formed the basis of their work is one of the most cited in economics. Acemoglu and Robinson’s subsequent book, Why Nations Fail, has also been hugely influential.

    These works have inspired a rich debate on the relationship between societal institutions and economic development – so in that sense, congratulations are in order. But they have also been the subject of substantial criticism. In the aftermath of the award, it is fitting to highlight the blind spots in their analysis.

    The most important piece of criticism concerns the connection between the quality of a country’s societal institutions and its level of economic development. Acemoglu, Johnson and Robinson’s work divides institutions into two categories: “inclusive” and “extractive”.

    Inclusive institutions – such as those that enforce property rights, protect democracy and limit corruption – foster economic development, according to the laureates. In contrast, extractive institutions, which give rise to a high concentration of power and limited political freedom, seek to concentrate resources in the hands of a small elite and thus stifle economic development.

    The laureates claim the introduction of inclusive institutions has had a positive long-term effect on economic prosperity. Indeed, these institutions are today found primarily in high-income countries in the west.

    A huge problem with this analysis, however, is the claim that certain institutions are a precondition for economic development.

    Mushtaq Khan, a professor of economics at Soas, University of London, has analysed Acemoglu, Johnson and Robinson’s work extensively. He argues that it mainly shows today’s high-income countries score higher on western-based institution indexes, and not that economic development was achieved because states first established inclusive institutions.

    In fact, history is rife with examples of countries that grew rapidly without having these inclusive institutions in place as a precondition for growth. East Asian states such as Singapore, South Korea and Taiwan are good examples. Most recently, so too is China.

    Yuen Yuen Ang’s award-winning books on China’s development process have laid out in detail how China was riddled with corruption during its growth process. In the wake of this year’s Nobel award, Ang went as far as saying that the laureates’ theory not only fails to explain growth in China, but also growth in the west. She points out that institutions in the US were smeared with corruption during the country’s development process.

    Ignoring the brutality of colonialism

    Nations are not wrong to pursue some of the inclusive institutions outlined in Acemoglu, Johnson and Robinson’s work. But another worrying part of their analysis is that it legitimises the supremacy of western institutions – and, at worst, processes of imperialism and colonialism.

    Their work has, indeed, been criticised for not paying attention to the brutality of colonialism. We need to dig a bit deeper into their methods to understand this criticism.

    The laureates establish their claim by looking at long-term development in settler colonies versus non-settler colonies. In settler colonies, such as the US, Canada and Australia, Europeans established inclusive institutions. But in non-settler colonies, which include large parts of Africa and Latin America, Europeans established extractive institutions.

    Acemoglu, Johnson and Robinson point out that, over time, settler colonies perform better. European institutions are thus better for development, they argue.

    But, considering that the process of colonisation is a central method of their paper, it’s a mystery that the laureates do not discuss the costs of colonialism more broadly.

    Even in settler colonies, where inclusive institutions were eventually developed, years of violence – in many cases verging on the genocide of native populations – predated the development of such institutions. Should this not be factored into the development process?

    According to this year’s laureates, Europeans settled in the poorest and most sparsely populated places, and introduced institutions that contributed to long-term prosperity.
    Johan Jarnestad / Nobel Prize Outreach

    After receiving the award, Acemoglu said that normative questions of colonialism didn’t concern them: “Rather than asking whether colonialism is good or bad, we note that different colonial strategies have led to different institutional patterns that have persisted over time.”

    This statement might come a shock to some people – why is Acemoglu not concerned about whether colonialism is good or bad? But for those familiar with the inner workings of the economics discipline, this statement doesn’t come as a surprise.

    It has, sadly, become a badge of honour in mainstream economics to analyse the world without a normative lens or value judgments. This is a broader issue with the discipline and, in part, explains why economics has become increasingly insular and distant from other social sciences.

    The Nobel prize in economics, which actually wasn’t among the five original Nobel prizes, also illustrates this problem. The list of past winners is narrow in geographical and institutional scope, mainly consisting of economists based at economics faculties in a small number of elite universities in the US.

    Furthermore, a recent study found the institutional and geographic concentration of awards in economics is much higher than in other academic fields. Almost all the winners of major awards have had to journey through one of the top US universities (limited to less than ten) in their career.

    This year’s Nobel prize in economics is no exception. Perhaps this is why it feels like every year, the prize goes to someone who asks “how does a change in variable X affect variable Y”, rather than asking difficult questions about colonialism, imperialism or capitalism – and daring to question the supremacy of western institutions.

    Jostein Hauge 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. This year’s Nobel prize exposes economics’ problem with colonialism – https://theconversation.com/this-years-nobel-prize-exposes-economics-problem-with-colonialism-241400

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Azure Cobalt 100-based Virtual Machines are now generally available

    Source: Microsoft

    Headline: Azure Cobalt 100-based Virtual Machines are now generally available

    We are excited to announce the general availability of the new Azure Cobalt 100 Virtual Machines (VMs). These VMs run on Microsoft’s first fully custom Arm-based Cobalt 100 CPU and represent a significant milestone in our end-to-end approach to building cloud infrastructure.

    Today we are announcing the general availability of the new Azure Cobalt 100-based Virtual Machines (VMs). These VMs run on Microsoft’s first 64-bit Arm-based Azure Cobalt 100 CPU, which has been fully designed in-house. They represent a significant milestone in our journey in designing and building out our cloud infrastructure, with optimization and customization across every layer of the infrastructure stack—from silicon, to servers, to services. Through vertical integration across hardware and software, Azure Cobalt 100-based VMs are one of Microsoft’s latest examples of innovating to enhance and optimize our cloud infrastructure with an end-to-end systems approach, to deliver the right mix of performance, power efficiency, and scale for our customers.

    The Cobalt 100-based VMs consist of our new general purpose Dpsv6-series and Dplsv6-series and our memory-optimized Epsv6-series VM series. They offer up to 50% better price performance than our previous generation Arm-based VMs, making them an attractive option for a wide range of scale-out and cloud-native Linux-based workloads, including data analytics, web and application servers, open source databases, caches, and more. 

    The new Azure Cobalt 100-based VMs deliver leading performance across various workloads compared to previous generations of Azure Arm-based VMs: up to 1.4x CPU performance, up to 1.5x performance on Java-based workloads, and up to 2x performance on web servers, .NET applications, and in-memory cache applications compared to the previous generation Azure Arm-based VMs. These VMs also support 4x local storage IOPS (with NVMe) and up to 1.5x network bandwidth compared to the previous generation Azure Arm-based VMs.

    The new VMs are broadly available in Canada Central, Central US, East US 2, East US, Germany West Central, Japan East, Mexico Central, North Europe, Southeast Asia, Sweden Central, Switzerland North, UAE North, West Europe, and West US 2. The number of regions will continue to expand in 2024 and beyond with Australia East, Brazil South, France Central, India Central, South Central US, UK South, West US 3, and West US coming soon.

    Customer adoption and scenarios

    We have been working with several internal and external customers during the preview period. For example, IC3, the platform that powers billions of customer conversations in Microsoft Teams, is serving its growing customer base more efficiently, achieving up to 45% better performance on Cobalt 100-based VMs.

    We’re also delivering Cobalt 100-based VMs to many of our independent software vendor (ISV) partners offering platform as a service (PaaS) and software as a service (SaaS) solutions on Microsoft Azure.

    “The Cobalt 100, Microsoft Azure’s new Arm-based processor, represents a huge step forward for optimizing performance and productivity. Cadence and Microsoft’s collaboration helps our mutual customers tackle the demands of giga-scale compute that advanced-node silicon design demands. The Cobalt 100 helps our thousands of electronic design automation (EDA) and systems customers meet their ever-increasing demands for throughput to speed time-to-market.” —Mahesh Turaga, Vice President (VP) of Cloud Business Development, Cadence

     “We are really excited about the new Cobalt 100 VMs. We are making them the primary platform for our Databricks SQL Serverless offering on Azure, as they offer outstanding efficiency and allow us to deliver significant price-performance improvements to our customers. Customers using our Azure Databricks classic Jobs offering will also greatly benefit from Cobalt VMs by selecting them for their Jobs cluster nodes, achieving noticeable performance improvements while keeping operating costs down.” —Michael Kiermaier, VP of Business Strategy and Operations, Databricks

    “At Elastic, we are driving innovation and cost-efficiency by enabling customers to leverage our Search AI-powered observability, security, and search solutions on Arm-based architecture. Azure Virtual Machines with Cobalt 100 Arm CPUs enables Elastic to deliver better throughput and up to 37% improved performance compared to Azure’ previous generation Arm based VMs.”  —Uri Cohen, Vice President, Product Management, Elastic

    “At Rescale, our mission is to elevate innovation by providing the best tools in high performance computing, data, and AI to organizations of every size to deliver engineering and scientific breakthroughs that enrich humanity. We have tested the Azure Cobalt 100 VMs to power our high-performance computing platform and found it to deliver about a 40% improvement in performance compared to Azure’s previous generation Arm-based VMs. We look forward to upgrading our Azure infrastructure to these new VMs and offer comparable performance improvements to our customers so they can tackle complex challenges with greater speed and efficiency.” —Adam McKenzie, Chief Technology Officer, Rescale 

    “Siemens EDA continues to expand its partnership with Microsoft to develop innovative solutions for our mutual silicon and electronic systems customers. Our collaboration around Microsoft Azure Cobalt 100 Arm-based VMs running analog, standard-cell, memory, and digital verification workloads has demonstrated compelling performance and economic benefits. The general availability of these new VMs marks an important milestone for the industry, highlighting its fast-growing reliance on continuously advancing hardware and software platforms optimized for high throughput and efficiency.” —Craig Johnson, Vice President, Siemens EDA Strategy

    “We have extensively tested Azure’s new Cobalt 100 VMs and compared them to the previous generation Arm VMs on Azure using Snowflake workloads. We’re thrilled with the significant improvements in performance. And now, we’re excited to adopt these latest Cobalt 100 VMs and share that performance improvement with our customers!” —Gabe Bryant, Senior Manager, Snowflake

    “In the face of unprecedented compute and memory demands driven by increasingly sophisticated systems, designers are leveraging the cloud to scale their computing resources. Our close collaboration with Microsoft Azure facilitates the adoption of Arm architecture-based compute resources by providing customers with industry-leading, AI-driven EDA tools enabled on the Azure cloud to help them address the escalating workload demands.” —Sanjay Bali, senior vice president of EDA strategy and product management at Synopsys

    “Templafy relies on the stability and scalability of Microsoft Azure to run our document generation platform for enterprises worldwide, and we’re excited about the new Azure Cobalt 100 VMs. After evaluation we’ve observed significant performance improvements, including approximately 25% higher throughput and 35% lower CPU usage compared to Azure’s previous generation Arm-based VMs. We look forward to harnessing these advancements to enhance our platform’s performance and deliver even better experiences for our customers when it comes to their critical business documents.”  —Marco van Kimmenade, Director of Engineering, Templafy

    Synergy with our technology partners

    We value the collaboration with our technology partners.

    “The Cobalt 100 processor is a fantastic example of how Arm-based silicon, supported by a robust software ecosystem, is addressing the growing compute complexity of modern infrastructure,” said Mohamed Awad, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Infrastructure Business, Arm. “Following years of collaboration with Microsoft to bring Arm-based VMs to market, the general availability of Cobalt 100 marks an important milestone in our partnership, and demonstrates the power, efficiency and flexibility of Arm Compute Subsystems in driving the workloads of the future.”

    The journey to Arm: Embracing innovation and customer benefits

    Microsoft has a longstanding history of contributing to Arm architecture and integrating Arm technology. This experience has enabled us to develop important industry standards that prepared the Arm architecture for datacenter-scale computing. We have also been working closely with Arm on industry initiatives such as ServerReady and SystemReady and received industry recognition for both initiatives. Our journey into Arm-based VMs is based on a vision to deliver superior price-performance and power efficiency. The Cobalt 100-based VMs embody this vision by offering these benefits. By embracing Arm-based VMs, we have been able to offer our customers a unique combination of performance and cost effectiveness.

    Developer ecosystem 

    The developer ecosystem for Arm continues to thrive and has seen tremendous progress in the last couple of years. Major developer platforms and languages such as C++, .NET, and Java provide Arm-native versions. We have invested in Arm-specific optimizations for each of these platforms and languages so we’re fully leveraging the capabilities of the Arm architecture.  

    The larger ecosystem has embraced Arm with many popular infrastructure and deployment solutions now available with native Arm support. GitHub Actions, GitHub’s continuous integration and continuous delivery (CI/CD) workflow engine, is an integral part of many developers’ workflows and used to continuously build, test, and deploy apps. This is now available for Arm in two flavors—self-hosted runners that can be hosted on an Arm VM or on local Arm hardware, and GitHub-hosted runners. 

    Containers are a popular deployment target for many reasons: a streamlined development workflow, isolation and security, efficient resource utilization, portability, and reproducibility. Microsoft Azure Kubernetes Service (AKS) now supports the creation of Arm agent nodes as well as mixing x86 and Arm architecture nodes within a cluster. 

    Specifications

    You can select from a range of Azure Virtual Machines of three memory ratios for a given vCPU size, giving you the flexibility to choose the configuration that works best for your workloads in terms of CPU performance and memory needs. All these VM series are available with and without local disks so that you can deploy the option that best fits your workload.  

    • The new Dpsv6-series and Dpdsv6-series general-purpose VMs offer up to 96 vCPUs and 384 GiB of RAM (4:1 memory-to-vCPU ratio). They are ideal for scale-out workloads, cloud-native solutions like AKS, small to medium open-source databases, application servers, and web servers. Arm developers can use these VMs in CI/CD pipelines, development, and test scenarios.
    • The new Dplsv6-series and Dpldsv6-series VMs provide up to 96 vCPUs and 192 GiB of RAM (2:1 memory-to-vCPU ratio). They are perfect for media encoding, small databases, gaming servers, microservices, and workloads that don’t need high RAM per vCPU.  
    • The new Epsv6-series and Epdsv6-series memory-optimized VMs offer up to 96 vCPUs and 672 GiB of RAM (up to 8:1 memory-to-vCPU ratio). These VMs are designed for memory-intensive workloads such as large databases, in-memory caching applications, and data analytics.

    The new virtual machines support all remote disk types such as Standard SSD, Standard HDD, Premium SSD and Ultra Disk storage. To learn more about various disk types and their regional availability, please refer to Azure managed disk type. Disk storage is billed separately from virtual machines. You can deploy these new VMs using existing methods including the Azure portal, SDKs, APIs, PowerShell, and the command-line interface (CLI). 

    You can learn more about the new Azure Cobalt 100-based VMs by visiting the specification pages: Dpsv6-series, Dpdsv6-series, Dplsv6-series, Dpldsv6-series, Epsv6-series, Epdsv6-series.   

    Pricing 

    To learn more about the pricing of Azure Cobalt 100-based VMs, please visit the Azure Virtual Machines pricing and Pricing calculator pages. 

    You can also take advantage of Reserved Instances, Azure savings plan for compute, and Spot Virtual Machines to lower your costs. Reserved VM Instances can reduce costs and improve your budget forecasting through upfront one-year or three-year commitments. For a limited time, you can save up to 15% more when you purchase one-year Azure Reserved Virtual Machine (VM) Instances for select Linux VMs. This offer is available between from October 1, 2024 to March 31, 2025. See here for more details. The Azure savings plan for compute gives you the flexibility to save across multiple Azure services, including Azure VMs. Spot Virtual Machines can significantly reduce the cost of running in Azure and further optimize your cloud spend for workloads that can tolerate interruptions and have flexible execution time.

    A new era of price performance and power efficiency

    The general availability of Azure Cobalt 100-based VMs marks the beginning of a new era in Azure’s infrastructure. With our custom silicon program, we are delivering exceptional price performance and power efficiency to our customers. We are excited to see the impact of these innovations on our customers’ businesses and we look forward to bringing even better solutions to our customers in the future.

    Thank you for joining us on this exciting journey.

    For questions, please go to Azure Support and our experts will be there to help you. 

    Additional resources 

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Broadview — Broadview RCMP seek public assistance locating missing 26-year-old female

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    On October 15, 2024, Broadview RCMP received a report of a missing 26-year-old female, Shyla Kaysaywaysemat.

    Shyla was last seen on October 12, 2024 at a residence on the Kahkewistahaw First Nation.

    Shyla is described as approximately 5’3″ tall. She has brown eyes and long brown hair.

    Since she was reported missing, Broadview RCMP have been checking places Shyla is known to visit and following up on information received. They are now asking members of the public to report information on Shyla’s whereabouts.

    If you have seen Shyla or know where she is, contact Broadview RCMP at 310-RCMP. Information can also be submitted anonymously by contacting Saskatchewan Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or http://www.saskcrimestoppers.com.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Pikangikum First Nation and Canada celebrate the grand opening of their new Knowledge Keepers Elders’ Complex

    Source: Government of Canada News

    News release

    October 16, 2024 — Pikangikum First Nation, Treaty 5 Territory, Ontario — Indigenous Services Canada 

    Everyone deserves to live in comfort with access to healthcare and services close to home and near loved ones. When Elders receive culturally relevant services in a safe, coordinated, and efficient manner based on individual needs, it allows them to live their golden years with dignity and care. 

    Today, Pikangikum First Nation celebrates the grand opening of their new Knowledge Keepers Elders’ Complex in collaboration with Indigenous Services Canada (ISC) and the Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC). 

    This new building more than doubles the capacity of the previous Elder’s care facility, going from eight rooms to 20 one-bedroom apartments with a full kitchen and living room area. Four of those apartments have an accessible bathroom and bathtub for those who require it. Each apartment includes a sundeck that opens to the outdoor courtyard, and there is a shared common area for visiting and socializing. 

    Community leadership is working with a funder to enable the facility to build a traditional food pantry so that Elders can have year-round access to moose, goose, and fish; install a medicine walkway (including local plants and flora) along the perimeter of the housing complex; and develop programming for children, youth, and Elders sharing circle that will include songs, stories, and recreational time together.

    Quotes

    “The Knowledge Keepers housing complex will provide a safe and dignified place for our Elders to age in their golden years. A place to call their very own.”

    “Our Elders wish to continue living in the community—being close to their friends and family is important for them.”

    Pikangikum First Nation Health Authority

    “Congratulations to Pikangikum First Nation for the opening of the expanded Knowledge Keepers Elders’ Complex. This is a testament to their dedication to enabling Elders to stay close to loved ones within their community while receiving compassionate support that proudly prioritizes their culture.”

    The Honourable Patty Hajdu
    Minister of Indigenous Services and Minister responsible for FedNor

    “Everyone deserves a safe and affordable place to call home. We are proud to partner with the Pikangikum First Nation to build new affordable homes that will allow more seniors to stay in their community near their loved ones.”

    The Honourable Sean Fraser
    Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities

    Quick facts

    • The Knowledge Keepers Elders’ Complex provides acute, end-of-life, rehabilitation, maintenance and long-term supportive care.

    • Staff at the facility will support and enhance the care provided by families and loved ones in the community.

    • The Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation has provided more than $6.2 million in support of this project through the second round of the Rapid Housing Initiative (RHI2).

    • Indigenous Services Canada invested more than $1.1 million in this project through the ISC Capital Facilities and Maintenance Program (CFMP).

    Contacts

    For more information, media may contact:

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

    ISC Media Relations
    819-953-1160
    media@sac-isc.gc.ca

    Sofia Ouslis 
    Office of the Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities
    Sofia.Ouslis@infc.gc.ca

    Media Relations
    Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation
    media@cmhc-schl.gc.ca

    Stay connected

    Join the conversation about Indigenous Peoples in Canada:

    Twitter: @GCIndigenous
    Facebook: @GCIndigenous
    Instagram: @gcindigenous

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

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Speech for the Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, at the Canadian Climate Institute and Net-Zero Advisory Body’s Fourth Annual Climate Conference

    Source: Government of Canada News

    Speech for the Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, at the Canadian Climate Institute and Net-Zero Advisory Body’s Fourth Annual Climate Conference

    October 10, 2024 – Ottawa, Ontario

    Check against delivery. This speech has been translated in accordance with the Government of Canada’s official languages policy and edited for posting and distribution in accordance with its communications policy.

    Hello.

    Thank you Gaëtan for that great scene-setting intro.

    I would first like to recognize the fact that we are on the unceded traditional territory of the Algonquin Anishinaabeg People.

    I am grateful to the caretakers of this land and water, and I ask that you join me in honouring the connection that the Anishnaabeg People have had to this land for millennia.

    This conference comes at a pivotal time.

    Building a cleaner and stronger economy in Canada is the course we are on.

    It is why we are all gathered here – we share a collective understanding and appreciation for both the economic opportunities and the environmental necessity in front of us.

    Now, I see many familiar faces around the audience.

    I know many of you have likely come from out of town.

    There are lots of hard-working people constructively working to attract and steer investment.

    Building a clean economy, like anything that is transformational, requires a vision and clear, bold steps to advance toward it.

    In every sector, we can see examples of that leadership—those stepping up with real vision.

    I think we just heard some great examples of that vision from the previous keynote.

    Two and a half years ago, the Government of Canada launched its climate plan, the most comprehensive plan in our history.

    We did our homework, building on the work of our predecessors, to give Canada a truly credible path towards carbon neutrality.

    Sector-by-sector, we showed how we could do it – how we could really do it – together.

    And since then, with the help of everyone in this room, we’ve put that plan into motion.

    Combine industry leadership, with a careful but ambitious balance of investments and regulatory tools: we are bending the curve on Canada’s emissions.

    I can tell you this is something I hear all the time.

    But more importantly our plan is working. Evidence of progress is rolling in.

    Recently, the Canadian Climate Institute, showed our country’s net emissions are starting to drop, between 2022 to 2023.

    The Institute also found that Canada’s economy continued to grow while emissions declined—what we call “decoupling.”

    What does that mean?

    It means growing the economy in 2024 does not mean more pollution.

    In fact, it points to the larger transformation underway.

    Now, Canadians may best associate our climate plan with carbon pricing.

    Could you blame them?

    But there are in fact over 100 measures we have put in place as part of our climate plan that serve as the foundation of a cleaner economy for Canada.

    Those measures have taken us from a place where, in 2015, we were projected to blow past our emission targets for 2030, to where we are now.

    Our emissions are now at their lowest point in 25 years.

    Never have we seen a drop in emissions, while our economy is chugging at full steam.

    This progress should not be taken for granted.

    We need to keep our horse in the race of a global economy that is moving faster than ever.

    I’m very pleased to share some exciting news from yesterday on how we’re trying to move the dial further on developing a clean energy economy.

    First: yesterday, the Deputy Prime Minister Freeland announced the guidelines for a Made-in-Canada sustainable investment taxonomy and mandatory climate disclosures for the largest Canadian private businesses.

    The sustainable investment taxonomy gives investors certainty on whether their investments are consistent with meeting global climate targets.

    It provides needed clarity that will boost financing from the private sector for sustainable activities across the Canadian economy.

    That includes things like building EV batteries, generating clean energy and decarbonization projects in heavy industries.

    The taxonomy will help direct investment to much-needed job-creating activities.

    Many of you will have seen the headlines on this…

    Simply put: Projects need to be credibly aligned with limiting temperature rise to 1.5 degrees Celsius to be considered a “green” or “transition” investment.

    Of course, developing these guidelines do not prevent investors from deciding where they wish to put their money.

    They are purely voluntary.

    But they do provide a common language on whether investments support climate goals or not.

    Similarly, requiring large businesses to provide climate-related financial disclosures to shareholders will help attract investment into sustainable activities across the economy.

    Disclosures help investors better understand how large businesses are thinking about and managing risks related to climate change.

    And we look forward to fleshing out that regulatory approach.

    We are building on the success of our Green Bond program.

    Like the taxonomy, Green Bonds direct financial flows towards those business opportunities that are key to reaching our net-zero targets.

    We have now launched Green Bonds twice in the market. First in 2022, and again earlier this year.

    Both times, the final book orders far exceeded the original offering.

    And because of that demand, we re-opened a third Green Bond this week.

    I am pleased to report that demand is still strong, and we are well over the offering amount.

    So, sustainable finance is the way to go.

    Let me give you another more tangible example.

    Last year, the Government of Canada delivered on the Clean Fuel Regulations, which encourages oil and gas refineries to lower the carbon intensity of their fuel production.

    Because of built-in incentives within this policy, we have already seen significant investments:

    Over $53 billion in investments have been announced across Canada in low-carbon intensity fuels such as green hydrogen, renewable diesel, and sustainable aviation fuel.

    For example, the oil refinery in Come-By-Chance, Newfoundland was converted into a major renewable diesel facility.

    The federal government supported Braya Renewable Fuels to commercialize its production of renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuel.

    It started operations in February 2024 and now produces up to 18,000 barrels per day of renewable diesel.

    Two hundred people work there full-time.

    These and similar companies now have the ability to create and sell valuable credits for supplying low carbon fuel to Canada.

    That’s progress.

    And it comes from creating the right support and incentive structures for the industry.

    I was delighted to listen to our previous speaker Adam Auer, the President and CEO of the Cement Association of Canada.

    It has taken determination to turn words into action, and guide the change we’ve witnessed in the cement industry over the past two years.

    It takes a lot of heat and energy to make cement using conventional processes.

    As you heard earlier this morning, the Cement Association of Canada decided they had to change.

    This industry released their roadmap to cleaner sources of fuel. And as you heard, they stuck to their plan.

    The results were apparent to me this summer, when I visited a green cement plant in St. Marys, Ontario.

    This is where carbon pricing—and in this case industrial carbon pricing—really gets a chance to shine.

    With money collected by the federal government from carbon pricing system on industry, we re-invested those revenues into an emissions reduction project at St. Marys Cement.

    There is so much misinformation coming at us through various channels that not everyone is sure carbon pricing works.

    It does, and here’s how:

    With money collected by the federal government from industrial pollution pricing, we re-invested in an emissions reduction project at St. Marys Cement.

    New kiln technology was installed that uses low-carbon fuels.

    This new process reduces the use of high-priced carbon-intensive fuels by up to 30%.

    This means less climate pollution and cleaner air for the town.

    It also increases the company’s long-term competitiveness and sustainability. And pride!

    Take a town like St. Marys with a population of under nine thousand people.

    A major employer in that town makes a significant low-carbon change in its production process.

    From that, we get direct positive results:

    • First, the sustainability of the jobs at the cement plant.
    • Second, the drop in greenhouse gas emissions, equivalent to 9,400 gas-powered cars off the road for a year.
    • Third, they are saving energy costs for their business.

    Examples like this play out in countless communities across the country.

    Government has an important role in mobilizing the investments to get these projects underway.

    But how does Canada keep up the momentum? Well, let’s just look at the growing clean energy sector.

    Internationally, this sector has achieved lift-off.

    I mean, Europe is now at three quarters of renewable and clean energy sources. It’s incredible.

    Clean sources of power are reliable, they are increasingly cheaper to build and the energy generated is cheaper to store.

    Clean energy enterprises are in a state of super-evolution.

    In New Brunswick, the Burchill Wind Energy Project is one of the largest battery energy storage facilities in Atlantic Canada.

    It’s just outside of Saint John and is overseen by the Tobique First Nation.

    When I visited earlier this year, Tobique First Nation Chief Ross Perley, said it best:

    “One of our traditional values as a nation is to take care of the environment.

    Green energy projects are going to start taking over, and they’re going to dominate, and that’s the way to the future.”

    Chief Perley got it right.

    And it’s no coincidence that Indigenous Peoples in Canada are playing such a major role in the clean energy revolution. We see it from coast-to-coast-to-coast.

    Canada is already in a good position with the vast majority of our electricity from non-emitting sources.

    We know that demand will likely double over the coming decades.

    It is no longer a matter of doing the “right thing for the environment” but also the “right thing for business”

    Across the countries, companies are shifting investment towards cleaner industry to meet our future energy demands.

    That’s why we launched new investment tax credits for clean electricity production, which add to a range of programs supporting electricity.

    Labour groups have endorsed these credits because for employers to receive their full value they must commit to fair payment of good-paying union-level jobs.

    And we will launch the clean electricity regulations that back our strategy for a cleaner grid in Canada.

    There are so many opportunities awaiting, nationwide.

    You’re in this room because you have seen a business pivot or you have guided a business to respond to events, to adjust, to morph, to reinvent itself.

    Changing the way we power our daily lives and our Canadian society really starts with changing the way that we THINK.

    The federal government is here to guide growth, to support the science and to spark investment.

    Canada’s robust, clean economy will allow us to enjoy prosperous lives while respecting the natural environment, instead of destroying or exploiting it.

    The climate crisis requires us to be innovative together, to encourage each other, and to keep the conversations going.

    Thank you for your time, your thoughtfulness and for the perspective you’ll bring back home from this conference.

    Enjoy the day.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Creation of New Permanent Chair Dedicated to Values and Ethics in the Public Service

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    Today, Taki Sarantakis, President of the Canada School of Public Service (CSPS), announced the creation of a new permanent Chair dedicated to values and ethics and the promotion of ethical leadership across federal government departments and agencies.

    October 16, 2024
    Ottawa, Ontario

    Today, Taki Sarantakis, President of the Canada School of Public Service (CSPS), announced the creation of a new permanent Chair dedicated to values and ethics and the promotion of ethical leadership across federal government departments and agencies.

    This new role, to be known as the “Ian D. Shugart Visiting Scholar”, is named for the late Clerk of the Privy Council, whose storied 30-year career in the federal public service culminated in being appointed Clerk in 2019, before being appointed to the Senate in 2022. Senator Shugart passed away on October 25, 2023.

    The announcement was made on the final day of the two-day “What Unites Us, Defines Us: Values and Ethics in Today’s Federal Public Service” symposium, hosted by the Privy Council Office and the Canada School of Public Service. The event brought federal public servants together to engage in an interactive discussion on the role of values and ethics in the public service, a conversation that the current Clerk, John Hannaford, launched in September 2023.

    The symposium featured more than 20 speakers and panelists with a combined on-site and virtual audience of more than 15,500 federal civil servants from across the country and abroad. Hannaford, who delivered a keynote at the symposium, welcomed the initiative.

    The new Chair will focus specifically on helping develop and enrich existing learning and training that encourages decision-making rooted in values and ethics principles—particularly at the leadership levels—and promote the importance of ethical leadership across government.

    The role will also establish linkages between the public sector and academia to help infuse the public service with the latest insights and research, explore best practices in ethics and governance, within Canada and internationally, as well as provide guidance on ethical frameworks in response to emerging challenges like digital governance, social media, and artificial intelligence.

    Appointees will serve on a rotational basis, starting in 2025. Successful candidates will bring to bear their experience in public sector values and ethics and associated disciplines, such as governance, federalism, technology, and history.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Joint statement on establishing Multilateral Sanctions Monitoring Team for implementation of UN Security Council resolutions on Democratic People’s Republic of Korea

    Source: Government of Canada News

    We, the participating states of the Multilateral Sanctions Monitoring Team (MSMT), are aligned in our commitment to upholding international peace and security, safeguarding the global non-proliferation regime and addressing the threat arising from the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea’s (DPRK’s) weapons of mass destruction and ballistic missile programs, which are in violation of UN Security Council resolutions (UNSCRs).

    October 16, 2024- Ottawa, Ontario – Global Affairs Canada

    “We, the participating states of the Multilateral Sanctions Monitoring Team (MSMT), are aligned in our commitment to upholding international peace and security, safeguarding the global non-proliferation regime and addressing the threat arising from the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea’s (DPRK’s) weapons of mass destruction and ballistic missile programs, which are in violation of UN Security Council resolutions (UNSCRs).

    “In light of the veto which disbanded the UN Security Council’s 1718 Committee Panel of Experts this year, we hereby express our intention to establish the MSMT, a multilateral mechanism to monitor and report violations and evasions of the sanction measures stipulated in the relevant UNSCRs. The goal of the new mechanism is to assist in the full implementation of UN sanctions on the DPRK by publishing information based on rigorous inquiry into sanctions violations and evasion attempts.

    “We underscore our shared determination to fully implement relevant UNSCRs regarding the DPRK; reaffirm that the path to dialogue remains open; and call on all states to join global efforts to maintain international peace and security in the face of the ongoing threats from the DPRK.”

    Signed: Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Netherlands, New Zealand, Republic of Korea, U.K, and U.S.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Allens advises lenders on reaching financial close for BCI Minerals’ $981m Mardie Project financing

    Source: Allens Insights

    Allens has advised the lenders on the successful financial close of BCI Minerals’ $981 million financing for the Mardie Salt Project (the Mardie Project), marking a significant milestone in the development of Australia’s first large-scale salt project in decades.

    The syndicate of lenders includes Northern Australia Infrastructure Facility, Export Finance Australia, Export Development Canada, Westpac Banking Corporation, and Industrial and Commercial Bank of China Limited.

    The financing package comprises $830 million for construction loans, $70 million for bank guarantees, and $81 million for potential cost overruns. The Mardie Project has been accredited as a Green Loan aligned with the Green Financing Framework.

    ‘We are proud to have played a key role in this significant financing deal for the Mardie Project,’ said lead Partner Ben Farnsworth.

    ‘This not only represents a major investment but also highlights the growing importance of sustainable financing in the global market. The Green Loan accreditation underscores the project’s commitment to environmental sustainability and economic growth.’

    Financial close was reached on 4 October. Allens continues to work with Lenders and BCI on satisfying the further conditions to the first drawdown of the construction loan facilities.

    Allens legal team

    Banking & Finance

    Ben Farnsworth (Partner), Louise Barbato (Senior Associate), Madeleine Ninkov (Associate), Megan Lee (Associate), Mariella Panegyres (Lawyer)

    Real Estate & Development

    Naomi Bergman (Partner), Layth Zumot (Associate)

    Projects

    Jodi Reinmuth (Partner), Lewis Pope (Associate)

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI: Anthem Citizen Real Estate Development Trust Files Initial Public Offering Final Prospectus and Sets Closing Date for Offering

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    /NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES/

    The final long form prospectus is accessible through SEDAR+

    VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Oct. 16, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Anthem Citizen Real Estate Development Trust (the “REDT”) announced today that it has received expressions of interest and commitments that in the aggregate are expected to achieve the maximum offering amount of C$82 million and has filed with the securities regulatory authorities in each of the provinces and territories of Canada, and obtained a receipt for, a final prospectus (the “Prospectus”) for an initial public offering of its trust units (the “Offering”).

    It is expected that the Offering will close on October 29, 2024.

    The REDT is a newly created, unincorporated investment trust and was established for the primary purpose of indirectly owning an interest in a mixed-use, transit-oriented development project (the “Project”) located in Burnaby, British Columbia. The Project comprises 372 condominium units, 200 market rental units, 73 non-market, affordable rental units, 176 hotel suites and 4,881 square feet of retail space. The Project is currently beneficially owned by a subsidiary of Anthem Developments (Canada) Ltd. and its non-managing, co-investment partner.

    CIBC World Markets Inc. (the “Agent”) is the sole agent for the Offering.

    This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy securities of the REDT in the United States, nor shall there be any sale of the securities of the REDT in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful. The securities described herein have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “1933 Act”), and may not be offered or sold within the United States unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or pursuant to exemptions from the registration requirements of the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws.

    This Offering is only being made to the public by prospectus. Access to the Prospectus and any amendment to the Prospectus is provided in accordance with securities legislation relating to procedures for providing access to a prospectus and any amendment. The Prospectus is accessible on SEDAR+ at http://www.sedarplus.com. An electronic or paper copy of the Prospectus and any amendment to the Prospectus may be obtained, without charge, from CIBC World Markets Inc. by telephone at 1-416-956-6378 or by email at mailbox.canadianprospectus@cibc.com, by providing such contact with an email address or address, as applicable. Investors should read the prospectus before making an investment decision.

    Anthem Citizen Real Estate Development Trust

    Anthem Citizen Real Estate Development Trust was formed for the primary purpose of indirectly owning an interest in the development of a mixed-used, transit-oriented development project in Burnaby, British Columbia expected to develop and operate a building containing 372 condominium units, 200 market rental units, 73 non-market, affordable rental units, 176 hotel suites and 4,881 square feet of retail space.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This news release contains statements that include forward-looking information within the meaning of Canadian securities laws. These forward-looking statements reflect the current expectations of the REDT regarding future events, including statements concerning commitments and expressions of interest in connection with the Offering, the use of proceeds of the Offering, the timing of closing of the Offering, and expectations with respect to the development of the Project. In some cases, forward-looking statements can be identified by terms such as “may”, “might”, “will”, “could”, “should”, “would”, “occur”, “expect”, “plan”, “anticipate”, “believe”, “intend”, “seek”, “aim”, “estimate”, “target”, “project”, “predict”, “forecast”, “potential”, “continue”, “likely”, “schedule”, or the negative thereof or other similar expressions concerning matters that are not historical facts.

    Material factors and assumptions used by management of the REDT to develop the forward-looking information include, but are not limited to, the REDT’s current expectations about: real property ownership and revenues; construction and development risk; obtaining necessary building permits for the Project; the realization of property value appreciation and timing thereof; the inventory of mixed-use properties; competition from developers of mixed-use properties; the Burnaby, British Columbia real estate market; government legal and regulatory changes; property encumbrances relating to the Project; significant fixed expenditures and fees in connection with the maintenance, operation and administration of the Project; closing and other transaction costs in connection with the acquisition and disposition of the Project; the availability of financing and current interest rates; revenue shortfalls; assumptions about rental growth rates, hotel occupancy and average daily rates in the Canadian mixed-use real estate market; demographic trends; fluctuations in interest rates; litigation risks; the relative illiquidity of real property investments; the Canadian economic environment; the geographic concentration of the REDT’s business; natural disasters and severe weather; demand levels for mixed-use properties in the metro Vancouver area and local economic conditions; negative geopolitical events; public health crises; the capital structure of the REDT; distributions; capital depletion; potential conflicts of interest; reliance on the good faith and ability of the Project’s project manager to manage and operate the Project; reliance on property management companies; the limited operating history of the REDT; the limited experience of management of the REDT with respect to managing a reporting issuer; the limited liquidity of the Class A Units and Class F Units; and tax laws. While management of the REDT considers these assumptions to be reasonable based on currently available information, they may prove to be incorrect.

    Although management believes the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable and represent the REDT’s internal projections, expectations and beliefs at this time, such statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties that may be general or specific and which give rise to the possibility that expectations, forecasts, predictions, projections or conclusions will not prove to be accurate, that assumptions may not be correct and that objectives, strategic goals and priorities may not be achieved. A variety of factors, many of which are beyond the REDT’s control, could cause actual results in future periods to differ materially from current expectations of estimated or anticipated events or results expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such factors include the risks identified in the Prospectus, including under the heading “Risk Factors” therein. Readers are cautioned against placing undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Except as required by applicable Canadian securities laws, the REDT undertakes no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, after the date on which the statements are made or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.

    Additional information regarding Anthem Citizen Real Estate Development Trust is available at http://www.citizenbyanthemdevtrust.com and on http://www.sedarplus.com.

    About Anthem Properties

    Anthem is a real estate development, investment and management company that strives, solves and evolves to create better spaces and stronger communities, with more than 385 residential, commercial, and retail projects. Founded in 1991, Anthem is a team of 800 people, with a diverse portfolio consisting of 41,700 homes, 11.5 million square feet of retail, industrial and office space and has developed more than 60 communities across 9,800 acres of land across in Alberta, British Columbia, Ontario and California. We are Growing Places.

    Contact:

    Elisha McCallum
    Vice President, Communications
    Phone: 604.488.3612 Mobile: 778.668.0185
    Email: emccallum@anthemproperties.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Forestry firefighters brief Minister on bushfire preparations

    Source: New South Wales Government 2

    Headline: Forestry firefighters brief Minister on bushfire preparations

    Published: 17 October 2024

    Released by: Minister for Regional NSW

    Minister for Agriculture and Minister for Regional New South Wales Tara Moriarty has met with Forestry Corporation fire specialists to discuss bushfire preparations on the Mid North Coast.

    Minister Moriarty attended Forestry Corporation’s Wauchope depot to speak with fire crews, who are geared up and ready to put their training into action protecting forests and communities during the NSW bushfire season.

    Forestry Corporation is one of the state’s four fire authorities joining the NSW Rural Fire Service, Fire and Rescue NSW and National Parks and Wildlife.

    The organisation oversees land management, bushfire preparation and response across more than 2-million hectares of state forests.

    Forestry Corporation has more than 500 trained firefighters rostered on to respond to state forest fires across NSW.

    Firefighters are trained in national firefighting competencies and its highly experienced managers undertake Incident Management Team roles on major firegrounds.

    Forestry Corporation has a statewide fleet of more than 450 fire appliances, 35 pieces of heavy plant, four contracted aircraft and over 130 drones and trained pilots.

    Heavy plant machinery, which the broader forestry industry uses to harvest sustainable timber is also available to fight fires.

    This machinery including bulldozers, excavators and specialist harvesting machines are used to create control lines for firefighting, set up back burns and remove dangerous trees for firefighting safety.

    In 2023/24 Forestry Corporation firefighters and fire managers were engaged in a total of 184 fires, this impacted 98,250 hectares of land.

    During the 2019-2020 Black Summer bushfires, this heavy plant machinery played an instrumental role in stopping the spread of fast burning bushfires saving life, property and assets across NSW.

    Outside of the bushfire season, Forestry Corporation also conducts forest hazard reduction burns and undertakes cultural burns in partnership with local Aboriginal communities.

    Forestry Corporation also sends its expert fire specialists abroad in the winter months to assist international firefighting agencies in the Northern hemisphere.

    Six staff members deployed to the United States and Canada this year and last year Port Macquarie local Matt Model was one of Forestry’s fire specialists, who deployed to Canada bringing back firefighting skills and expertise to the region.

    Minister for Regional New South Wales Tara Moriarty:

    “The NSW Forestry Corporation has managed fire in state forests for more than 100 years.

    “Forestry Corporation’s trained firefighters work in State forests every day of the year, protecting lives, the environment, forestry resources and local communities.

    “They have decades of experience in managing forest fires, working with the RFS, managing heavy equipment across major firegrounds and maintaining thousands of kilometres of fire trails,

    “When bushfires are reported in our NSW state forests, our forest firefighters rapidly respond using their large fleet of appliances and bringing in heavy plant machinery from the broader forest and timber industry.”

    Forestry Corporation Senior Manager Fire and Natural Hazards Rebel Talbert:

    “As one of the four statutory firefighting authorities in NSW, Forestry Corporation works collaboratively with the other agencies to protect communities, the environment and the State’s essential timber assets from the risk of fire.

    “We are well prepared heading into the fire season with a workforce of skilled firefighters, a fleet of equipment, drones and heavy plant ready to deploy and networks of fire trails and fire towers maintained to aid rapid detection and early suppression of fires.

    Forestry Corporation Fire and Operations Team Leader, Wauchope, Matt Model:

    “In managing more than 200,000 hectares of state forests here on the Mid North Coast, we keep the Mid Coast Bush Fire Management Committee briefed on fuel loads and fire conditions in state forests.

    “Since the Black Summer Bushfires here on the Mid North Coast firefighting technology has been rapidly expanded across NSW to include drones and satellite technology, which this summer will  help our crews with early detection, mapping, response and containment of forest fires.” 

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Grave of missing World War Two soldier identified in Italy

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    The grave of a Scottish soldier who lost his life in Italy during World War Two has been identified and rededicated 80 years after his death.

    A bugler and piper from the Royal Regiment of Scotland at Bolsena War Cemetery (Crown Copyright)

    Today’s service for Private (Pte) George Alister Walker Ewan was organised by the MOD’s Joint Casualty and Compassionate Centre (JCCC), also known as the ‘War Detectives’. 

    The service was held at the Commonwealth War Graves Commission’s (CWGC) Bolsena War Cemetery in Italy. 

    George Alister Walker Ewan was born in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada in 1915 to Scottish parents Thomas Ewan, a farmer, and his wife Christina Walker Alister. George was their second, and youngest child – having a sister called Catherine, who was five years older than him.  

    The family returned to Scotland in the summer of 1916, living initially in Dollar with Thomas’ mother. Sadly, Christina died in 1919 and following this the family were separated for a time with George and Catherine living away from their father.

    George Ewan joined the army in June 1940 and spent two years on home defence duties with a Territorial battalion of the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders. In late 1941 he was transferred to the 8th Battalion and embarked with them for North Africa in October 1942. He was posted as missing in November 1942 during the second battle of El Alamein but was able to rejoin his battalion a few weeks later.   

    Padre David Anderson leads the service for Pte George Ewan at Bolsena War Cemetery (Crown Copyright)

    Pte Ewan was wounded in an action in the Vaiano area in late June 1944, he was initially posted as missing, but this was later revised to record that he was presumed to have died of his wounds on or soon after 21 June 1944.  He was buried at the civilian cemetery at Castiglione del Largo, possibly by the German army or by local civilians though the records are not clear. Either way, his name was not recorded, and he was listed in the cemetery records as an unknown British soldier.  

    Following the war, his remains were recovered from Castiglione del Largo and moved to the war cemetery at Bolsena, his cap badge showed that he had been a member of the Argyll & Sutherland Highlanders, but no other identifying artefacts were found. 

    Recently an independent researcher submitted evidence to the CWGC hoping to have located the final resting place of Pte Ewan. This research was reviewed, and extra work was conducted by the National Army Museum and the JCCC which concluded that now, 80 years after his death, it was possible to clearly identify where Pte Ewan was buried and notify his family that he had been found. Pte Ewan’s cousins were in attendance at the service. 

    Pte Ewan’s cousins stand at his graveside with members of the military party (Crown Copyright)

    JCCC Caseworker, Alexia Clark, said: 

    I am grateful to the researcher who submitted this case. Their work has led us to recognise the final resting place of Pte Ewan, to restore his name to him and to allow his family to honour his sacrifice. It has been a privilege for me to have contributed to this case and to have organised the service for the rededication of Pte Ewan’s grave today. 

     Director for Central and Southern Europe at the CWGC, Geert Bekaert, said:  

    We are grateful to everyone involved in identifying the grave of this brave soldier, who died 80 years ago today. It is our duty – and privilege – to care for the grave of Private Ewan, in perpetuity.

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: ICC DSI launches digital trade reliability assessment tool  

    Source: International Chamber of Commerce

    Headline: ICC DSI launches digital trade reliability assessment tool  

    Developed by the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC)’s Digital Standards Initiative (DSI) and the Digital Governance Council (DGC) of Canada, the new assessment framework enables an entity to deploy ETRs in place of paper trade documentation assessing a platform’s ability to effect the transfer in conformity with the definition of the Model Law on Electronic Transferable Records (MLETR) definition of reliability. As more economies align to the MLETR, the assessment allows for service providers to assert their reliability through a commonly accepted market standard.  

    Pamela Mar, Managing Director, ICC DSI said : 

    “The reliability assessment framework is a collective effort drawing on the knowledge and work of technical and commercial experts from various entities involved in digital trust, standards, certifications and assessment. This launch is an important first step in the development of a framework for ensuring digital trust at scale, an important pillar of the digital trade ecosystem.” 

    ICC DSI and the DGC led a working group of standards bodies, technical experts, assessment firms, and commercial and industry entities to develop the tool that holds potential to become a major credential for this part of digital trade services. The working group operated with advice from the Industry Advisory Board of ICC DSI.  

    Keith Jansa, CEO, DGC of Canada said : 

    “The collaborative effort between ICC and DGC has resulted in a groundbreaking technical self-assessment for the reliability of systems that enable the transfer of Electronic Transferable Records (ETRs). This is a major step towards international standardisation and formal recognition of digital service providers enabling the global digital trade and we look forward to continuing the work with ICC and the ETR community.” 

    The assessment framework was recently piloted by several ETR service providers to test its robustness, utility and market relevance. It has been released as a beta version for self-assessment, while plans for a certification with third party assessment are in development.  

    To access the assessment framework, visit: https://github.com/dgc-cgn/CAS-Digital-Trade-Documentation  

    A 30-min webinar with a live Q&A will take place on 30 October, Wednesday, 9pm SGT / 9am Ottawa / 3pm CET.  Register, free of charge here.   

    For more details about the ICC Digital Standards Initiative, please visit: http://www.dsi.iccwbo.org. 

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK strikes at the heart of Russian energy revenues funding Putin’s war

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    The UK has today unleashed the largest package of sanctions to date against Putin’s shadow fleet of oil tankers.

    • Fresh sanctions unleashed against 18 Russian oil tankers and 4 liquified natural gas tankers – the largest sanctions action to date against Putin’s shadow fleet. 

    • The Foreign Secretary continues his personal mission to crack down on the full spectrum of Russian malign activity.  

    • The US and Canada sign up to the shadow fleet ‘Call to Action’ launched by UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer in July, bringing the total number of signatories to 47.

    The UK has today unleashed the largest package of sanctions to date against Putin’s shadow fleet of oil tankers.18 more shadow fleet ships will be barred from UK ports and unable to access world-leading British maritime services, bringing the total number of oil tankers sanctioned to 43. 

    The shadow fleet seeks to undermine sanctions and poses a clear and present danger. Environmental risks, such as oil spills, on our coastlines as a result of its flagrant violation of basic safety standards, but also risks to the security of global trade – the lifeblood of economic growth. 

    At the European Political Community Summit in July, the Prime Minister announced the shadow fleet call to action. Today the US and Canada have joined 44 European countries plus the EU in working together to tackle the risks posed by the shadow fleet. 

    The UK’s relentless action against the shadow fleet is putting grit into the system and starving Putin’s war machine of crucial revenues. The oil tankers targeted today have transported an estimated $4.9 billion in the last year alone. A significant number of the ships targeted by the UK to date have been forced to sit idling uselessly outside ports across the world, unable to continue pouring money into Putin’s war chest. 

    Sovcomflot, Russia’s largest shipping company, has been left desperately scrambling to rename and offload its vessels to dodge UK sanctions. Today we have targeted even more of its ships, further turning the screw on the mechanisms the Kremlin uses to fund its illegal war.  

    Alongside action against the shadow fleet, the UK is sanctioning 4 more LNG tankers and Russian gas company Rusgazdobycha JSC. We are continuing to ratchet up pressure on the beleaguered Russian gas industry, with flagship company Gazprom posting a significant net loss of $6.9 billion in 2023 – its first annual loss in more than 20 years.

    Foreign Secretary, David Lammy said:

    We must combat malign Russian activity at every turn, whether illicit tactics to bolster Putin’s war chest, their use of cyber-attacks or barbarism on the front line in Ukraine. 

    The UK is leading the charge against Putin’s desperate and dangerous attempts to cling on to his energy revenues, with his shadow fleet placing coastlines across Europe and the world in jeopardy. 

    I have made it my personal mission to constrain the Kremlin, closing the net around Putin and his mafia state using every tool at my disposal.

    This new shadow fleet package comes in the weeks following recent UK actions to sanction both Russian cyber-crime gang Evil Corp, and Russian troops found to be using chemical weapons on the front lines in Ukraine. It represents the latest in a drumbeat of activity, with each package designed to target a distinct aspect of Russia’s malign behavior and reinforce the UK’s commitment to global security and the rule of law.

    Background

    Sanctioned today are: 

    • NS BORA (IMO 9412335) 

    • ATLAS (IMO 9413573) 

    • MOSKOVSKY PROSPECT (IMO 9511521) 

    • NS ARCTIC (IMO 9413547) 

    • CALLISTO (IMO 9299692) 

    • SCF BAIKAL (IMO 9422457) 

    • SCF SAMOTLOR (IMO 9421972) 

    • SUVOROVSKY PROSPECT (IMO 9522324) 

    • EASTERN PEARL (IMO 9285859) 

    • KUDOS STARS (IMO 9288710) 

    • SEA FIDELITY (IMO 9285835) 

    • STRATOS AURORA (IMO 9288708) 

    • TURBO VOYAGER (IMO 9299898) 

    • AZURE CELESTE (IMO 9288722) 

    • VARUNA (IMO 9332810) 

    • SAI BABA (IMO 9321691) 

    • ARTEMIS (IMO 9317949) 

    • ANTAEUS (IMO 9299733) 

    • MARSHAL VASILEVSKIY (IMO 9778313) 

    • VELIKIY NOVGOROD (IMO 9630004) 

    • MULAN (IMO 9864837) 

    • EVEREST ENERGY (IMO 9243148) 

    • RUSGAZDOBYCHA JSC 

    Today’s announcement comes as the United States and Canada have united in support of the European Political Community (EPC) Call to Action , demonstrating their shared determination to address the risks that the shadow fleet poses to the environment, maritime safety and security in Europe and beyond, the integrity of international seaborne trade, and respect for international maritime law. 

    Separately, the UK is taking steps to combat malign, Russian-backed maritime activity near the UK:  

    • The Department for Transport is working alongside the Joint Maritime Security Centre (JMSC) and the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) to challenge shadow fleet vessels with suspected dubious insurance to provide details of their insurance status as they pass through the English Channel. 

    • Any actor that facilitates and supports Russia’s malign activities could be exposing themselves to sanctions

    Ships specified under the Russia (Sanctions) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019 are prohibited from entering a port in the UK, may be given a movement or a port entry direction, can be detained, and will be refused permission to register on the UK Ship Register or have its existing registration terminated. In addition, the Oil Price Cap exception is not applicable to services in relation to specified ships, or to the supply or delivery of Russian oil or oil products in specified ships 

    The Office for Financial Sanctions Implementation has published guidance on the Russian Oil Services ban. Limited exceptions apply and licences may be granted for specified ships, as set out in Part 7 of the Russia (Sanctions) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019

    Media enquiries

    Email newsdesk@fcdo.gov.uk

    Telephone 020 7008 3100

    Contact the FCDO Communication Team via email (monitored 24 hours a day) in the first instance, and we will respond as soon as possible.

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: Orezone Reports Q3-2024 Gold Production

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Oct. 17, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Orezone Gold Corporation (TSX: ORE, OTCQX: ORZCF) (the “Company” or “Orezone”) is pleased to announce its third quarter 2024 gold production results from its Bomboré Gold Mine:

    • Gold production of 26,581 ounces, totalling 82,244 ounces year-to-date
    • Gold sales of 27,698 ounces at an average realized price of US$2,473/oz, resulting in sales of US$68.5 million
    • Quarter-end cash balance of US$66.9 million and senior debt of US$68.1 million after a further repayment of US$5.0 million in principal during the quarter

    Patrick Downey, President & CEO stated, “Q3 marked another strong operating period at Bomboré, with a quarterly record of 1.5 million ore tonnes processed. Through the quarter, the Company was successful in accessing, pre-stripping, and commencing production in the higher-grade, free-digging Siga Zone oxides in the south. However, mill feed from this newly accessed, higher-grade zone, was lower than planned during the quarter due to delays from heavy rains and a four-day plant shutdown including a full ball mill reline in late September.

    With the conclusion of the rainy season and completion of all scheduled annual mill maintenance, we fully expect fourth quarter gold production to be the strongest quarter for the year with increased ore contribution from the Siga Zone. The Company is on track to meet the mid-point of its 2024 production guidance of 110,000 to 125,000 ounces, evidenced by the strong gold production of 6,331 ounces through the first 15 days of October, at a head grade of 0.85 g/t gold. With record gold prices and unhedged gold sales, we expect additional cash generation in the last quarter of the year.”

    Bomboré Production Results (100% Basis)

      Unit Q3-2024 Q2-2024 Q1-2024 Nine Months Ended
    September 30, 2024
    Ore processed Tonnes 1,491,740 1,428,396 1,355,619 4,275,755
    Ore grade Au g/t 0.63 0.64 0.78 0.68
    Plant recovery % 87.4 86.8 89.0 87.8
    Gold produced Au oz 26,581 25,524 30,139 82,244
    Gold sold Au oz 27,698 24,937 31,229 83,864


    About Orezone Gold Corporation

    Orezone Gold Corporation (TSX: ORE OTCQX: ORZCF) is a West African gold producer engaged in mining, developing, and exploring its flagship Bomboré Gold Mine in Burkina Faso. The Bomboré mine achieved commercial production on its oxide operations on December 1, 2022, and is now focused on its staged hard rock expansion that is expected to materially increase annual and life-of-mine gold production from the processing of hard rock mineral reserves. Orezone is led by an experienced team focused on social responsibility and sustainability with a proven track record in project construction and operations, financings, capital markets and M&A.

    The technical report entitled Bomboré Phase II Expansion, Definitive Feasibility Study is available on SEDAR+ and the Company’s website.

    Contact Information

    Patrick Downey
    President and Chief Executive Officer

    Vanessa Pickering
    Manager, Investor Relations

    Tel: 1 778 945 8977 / Toll Free: 1 888 673 0663
    info@orezone.com / http://www.orezone.com

    For further information please contact Orezone at +1 (778) 945-8977 or visit the Company’s website at http://www.orezone.com.

    The Toronto Stock Exchange neither approves nor disapproves the information contained in this news release.

    QUALIFIED PERSONS

    Dale Tweed, P. Eng., VP Engineering and Rob Henderson, P. Eng. VP Technical Services of Orezone, are Qualified Persons under NI 43-101 and have reviewed and approved the scientific and technical information contained in this news release.  

    Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains certain information that may constitute “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable Canadian Securities laws and “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of applicable U.S. securities laws (together, “forward-looking statements”). Forward-looking statements are frequently characterized by words such as “plan”, “expect”, “project”, “intend”, “believe”, “anticipate”, “estimate”, “potential”, “possible” and other similar words, or statements that certain events or conditions “may”, “will”, “could”, or “should” occur. Forward-looking statements in this press release include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to the Company being on track to meet the mid-point of its 2024 production guidance including the fourth quarter being the strongest quarter of the year, cash generation in the last quarter of the year and the hard rock expansion.  

    All such forward-looking statements are based on certain assumptions and analyses made by management in light of their experience and perception of historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments, as well as other factors management and the qualified persons believe are appropriate in the circumstances.

    All forward-looking statements are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements including, but not limited to, delays caused by pandemics, terrorist or other violent attacks (including cyber security attacks), the failure of parties to contracts to honour contractual commitments, unexpected changes in laws, rules or regulations, or their enforcement by applicable authorities; the failure of parties to contracts to perform as agreed; social or labour unrest; changes in commodity prices; unexpected failure or inadequacy of infrastructure, the possibility of unanticipated costs and expenses, accidents and equipment breakdowns, political risk, unanticipated changes in key management personnel and general economic, market or business conditions, the failure of exploration programs, including drilling programs, to deliver anticipated results and the failure of ongoing and uncertainties relating to the availability and costs of financing needed in the future, and other factors described in the Company’s most recent annual information form and management discussion and analysis filed on SEDAR+. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.

    Although the forward-looking statements contained in this press release are based upon what management of the Company believes are reasonable assumptions, the Company cannot assure investors that actual results will be consistent with these forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this press release and are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement. Subject to applicable securities laws, the Company does not assume any obligation to update or revise the forward-looking statements contained herein to reflect events or circumstances occurring after the date of this press release.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Calian continues to respond to growing demand for global defence solutions

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    OTTAWA, Ontario, Oct. 17, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Calian Group Ltd. (TSX: CGY), closed fiscal year 2024 ending September 30, having signed several defence contracts in the fourth quarter valued at approximately $29 million, further solidifying its position as a trusted partner in the global defence industry. These new contracts align with Calian’s mission to equip, prepare and protect military personnel as global military spending continues to surge amid war, geopolitical instability and the heightened need for new and advanced technologies.

    Global defence budgets continue to rise and are projected to reach $2.5 trillion by 2028 according to Markets and Markets. Throughout FY2024, Calian continued to win contracts to support key global defence initiatives that enhance military readiness and operational effectiveness. Closing out Q4, Calian was selected to provide Canada and NATO members with operational and training support, defence manufacturing, engineering support and technical expertise.

    “As the world faces continued unrest, Calian is more dedicated than ever to delivering cutting-edge defence solutions to ensure the preparedness and safety of Canadian, NATO and allied personnel,” said Kevin Ford, CEO, Calian. “Our recent contract signings reflect the growing trust our global partners place in Calian to support critical global defence initiatives. As we move into FY2025, we remain focused on helping our allies prepare for the complex challenges that lie ahead, equipping them with the tools and expertise needed to safeguard national and global security.”

    In a 2024 McKinsey & Company report they indicated that following the invasion of Ukraine, NATO member states have announced plans to spend significantly more on defence in the coming years. It goes on to add that if actual spending stays in line with the latest announcements made by European governments, their analysis estimates that cumulative defence spending could increase by €700 billion to €800 billion between 2022 and 2028, with total European spending reaching as much as €500 billion per year in 2028. With Calian’s recent acquisition of U.K.’s Mabway, combined with its leadership in providing defence readiness expertise for NATO countries, Calian is uniquely positioned going into FY2025 to support these increasing demands.

    With over 40 years of experience delivering defence solutions to Canada and its global allies, Calian provides a broad portfolio of services, including military training, simulation, healthcare, cybersecurity and complex systems integration. These recent Q4 contract signings reinforce Calian’s commitment to helping military forces remain ready and resilient in today’s fast-changing security environment.

    Learn more about how Calian delivers confidence for military customers, no matter their needs: https://www.calian.com/defence/.

    About Calian
    http://www.calian.com
    We keep the world moving forward. Calian® helps people communicate, innovate, learn and lead safe and healthy lives. Every day, our employees live our values of customer commitment, integrity, innovation, respect and teamwork to engineer reliable solutions that solve complex challenges. That’s Confidence. Engineered. A stable and growing 40-year company, we are headquartered in Ottawa with offices and projects spanning North American, European and international markets. Visit calian.com to learn about innovative healthcare, communications, learning and cybersecurity solutions.

    Product or service names mentioned herein may be the trademarks of their respective owners.

    Media inquiries:
    media@calian.com
    613-599-8600 x 2298

    Investor Relations inquiries:
    ir@calian.com

    DISCLAIMER
    Certain information included in this press release is forward-looking and is subject to important risks and uncertainties. The results or events predicted in these statements may differ materially from actual results or events. Such statements are generally accompanied by words such as “intend”, “anticipate”, “believe”, “estimate”, “expect” or similar statements. Factors which could cause results or events to differ from current expectations include, among other things: the impact of price competition; scarce number of qualified professionals; the impact of rapid technological and market change; loss of business or credit risk with major customers; technical risks on fixed price projects; general industry and market conditions and growth rates; international growth and global economic conditions, and including currency exchange rate fluctuations; and the impact of consolidations in the business services industry. For additional information with respect to certain of these and other factors, please see the Company’s most recent annual report and other reports filed by Calian with the Ontario Securities Commission. Calian disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. No assurance can be given that actual results, performance or achievement expressed in, or implied by, forward-looking statements within this disclosure will occur, or if they do, that any benefits may be derived from them.

    Calian · Head Office · 770 Palladium Drive · Ottawa · Ontario · Canada · K2V 1C8
    Tel: 613.599.8600 · Fax: 613-592-3664 · General info email: info@calian.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Corporate social responsibility: Boralex’s ambitious greenhouse gas emissions reduction targets validated by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi)

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MONTREAL, Oct. 17, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Boralex inc. (“Boralex” or the “Company”) (TSX: BLX) is proud to announce that it is one of the few companies in the renewable energy sector to have its greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reduction targets validated by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi). This recognition confirms that Boralex’s commitment to reach net-zero GHG emissions by 2050 across its entire value chain is science-based and aligned with a trajectory to achieve the goals set by the Paris Agreement of limiting global temperature increases to less than 1.5oC.

    “The validation of our targets by the SBTi is perfectly in line with our strategic objective of becoming the reference in corporate social responsibility (CSR) for our partners. Today’s announcement consolidates our leadership role in our industry, reinforces our commitment to produce renewable energy in the best possible way, and resonates with our organizational purpose, which aims to benefit future generations,” said Patrick Decostre, President and CEO of Boralex.

    “I’m extremely proud of the monumental work carried out by many Boralex employees in recent years, which today enables us to be among the first companies in our industry to have our targets validated by the SBTi initiative. In addition to representing concrete, ambitious and realistic actions to fight climate change, this commitment shows that we are anticipating market needs, including compliance with upcoming CSR regulatory frameworks,” said Mihaela Stefanov, Senior Vice President, Enterprise Risk Management and Corporate Social Responsibility.

    To reach net-zero by 2050, the most ambitious designation available through the SBTi process, Boralex has set near- and long-term targets covering 100% of emissions from its entire value chain (Scope 1, 2 and 3):

    • Near-term: By 2030, Boralex is committed to reducing its absolute Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 42% from a base year of 2022, and by 2028, to having 90% of its major component suppliers have science-based reduction targets.
    • Long-term: By 2050, Boralex is committed to reducing its absolute Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 90% and its Scope 3 emissions per kWh produced and sold by 97%, from a base year of 2022.

    To ensure that every kWh generated and produced is as low-carbon as possible, Boralex relies, among other factors, on the gradual electrification of its vehicle fleet, the consumption of electricity from renewable sources at its sites and buildings, and partnerships with strategic low-carbon suppliers.

    The validation of our targets by the SBTi, a reputable global organization supported by 130 specialists based in North America and Europe, is a central element in our overall CSR and risk management strategy. Indeed, it was essential for Boralex to go beyond a GHG emissions reduction objective by adopting an action plan to achieve this objective that is concrete, realistic and backed by a recognized authority. For more details on our CSR commitments and actions, visit the Boralex website.

    About Boralex

    At Boralex, we have been providing affordable renewable energy accessible to everyone for over 30 years. As a leader in the Canadian market and France’s largest independent producer of onshore wind power, we also have facilities in the United States and development projects in the United Kingdom. Over the past five years, our installed capacity has more than doubled to over 3 GW. We are developing a portfolio of more than 6.8 GW in wind, solar projects and storage projects, guided by our values and our corporate social responsibility (CSR) approach. Through profitable and sustainable growth, Boralex is actively participating in the fight against global warming. Thanks to our fearlessness, our discipline, our expertise and our diversity, we continue to be an industry leader. Boralex’s shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol BLX.

    For more information, visit boralex.com or sedarplus.com. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and Instagram.

    For more information

    Source: Boralex inc.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Statement by the Prime Minister on the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty

    Source: Government of Canada – Prime Minister

    The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty:

    “Today, on the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, we stand united to build a world where poverty is not just reduced, but eradicated. A world where every person has the chance to live in dignity, security, and comfort.

    “Reducing poverty and inequality across the country starts with building more affordable housing. Earlier this year, we launched our ambitious Housing Plan, which is helping build more affordable homes, faster, and addressing chronic homelessness, especially in underserved communities. Since 2019, the Reaching Home program has supported thousands of projects that have helped over 87,600 people across the country find a stable home and over 148,500 others receive homelessness prevention services, such as short-term rental assistance or help settling disputes with landlords.

    “The Canadian Dental Care Plan is helping millions of uninsured Canadians access affordable dental care – and 750,000 people have already received care. Our new National School Food Program will be getting healthy school meals to kids. This Friday, parents across the country will see the monthly Canada Child Benefit payment in their bank accounts. The program – which has lifted hundreds of thousands of kids out of poverty – puts money back in the pockets of Canadians. And with initiatives like $10-a-day child care and the upcoming Canada Disability Benefit, we’re making sure Canadians have the extra savings they need for the things that matter most.

    “Our commitment extends beyond our borders as well. Canada’s leadership includes our Poverty Reduction Strategy and Feminist International Assistance Policy, our commitment to advancing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, and most recently, the adoption of the Pact for the Future last month at the Summit of the Future. Just this year, we contributed nearly $1.3 billion to the International Monetary Fund’s Poverty Reduction and Growth Trust to lift countries out of poverty and make the world a better place.

    “Canada is steadfast in its commitment to building a future where poverty is eradicated and where every generation is given a fair chance to succeed.”

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI: Richtech Robotics Expands Agreement with Ghost Kitchens to Manage 20 Additional Walmart-Located Restaurants, Growing its Restaurant Operations Model

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Company’s subsidiary, AlphaMax Management LLC, will optimize operations through the use of robotics and AI cloud technology at restaurants across Arizona, Colorado, and Texas

    LAS VEGAS, Oct. 17, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Richtech Robotics Inc. (Nasdaq: RR) (“Richtech Robotics” or the “Company”), a Nevada-based provider of AI-driven service robots, today announces that it is expanding its restaurant operations model with the signing of a binding Letter of Intent (LOI) with Ghost Kitchens America. Under the terms of the LOI, Richtech Robotics agreed to enter into a franchise agreement with Ghost Kitchens America, pursuant to which the Company will acquire exclusive rights to operate 20 Walmart-located restaurants in Arizona, Colorado, and Texas. These restaurants will be directly managed by Richtech Robotics’ subsidiary, AlphaMax Management LLC, with the aim of optimizing restaurant operations through robotics and AI cloud technology. Each location is expected to generate between $700 thousand and $2 million in annual revenue.

    Richtech Robotics is deploying its proprietary automation to enhance operational efficiency, augment and personalize customer experiences, and lower operational costs. The establishment and ongoing management of these restaurants is anticipated to provide a clear, repeatable operational blueprint that businesses can use to scale robotic deployment and optimize their business model.

    Matt Casella, President of Richtech Robotics, stated: “Richtech Robotics is committed to the commercialization of robotics, through both robotic sales and the operation of our own robot-powered restaurants. This agreement will significantly add to our restaurant portfolio, and these high-traffic locations will bring greater visibility to our brand and our solutions. Our restaurant operations will showcase the very same robotic and AI platforms offered through our RaaS (Robotics-as-a-Service) business model. We expect these platforms to become a fast-growing and stable revenue stream for us as we leverage them to manage thousands, and eventually tens of thousands, of restaurant operations in the future.”

    George Kottas, CEO of Ghost Kitchens America, commented: “All Walmart locations where we’ve signed agreements with Richtech Robotics have strong sales numbers and steady customer traffic. Based on our previous collaborations, Ghost Kitchens is confident that Richtech Robotics’ robotic technology and operational management services will maximize the performance of these restaurants. We look forward to further expanding our partnership with Richtech Robotics as we rapidly grow our restaurant footprint.”

    In addition to today’s announcement, the Company has already secured exclusive operational rights for the Ghost Kitchen at a Walmart location in Rockford, Illinois. Additionally, Richtech Robotics has signed a franchise agreement for another Walmart restaurant in Peachtree, Georgia, which is expected to begin operations later this year.

    Through AlphaMax Management LLC, Richtech Robotics is operating these restaurants and advancing the application of robotic technology in the food service industry, with the goal of helping businesses reduce costs and improve efficiency.

    About Richtech Robotics

    Richtech Robotics is a provider of collaborative robotic solutions specializing in the service industry, including the hospitality and healthcare sectors. Our mission is to transform the service industry through collaborative robotic solutions that enhance the customer experience and empower businesses to achieve more. By seamlessly integrating cutting-edge automation, we aspire to create a landscape of enhanced interactions, efficiency, and innovation, propelling organizations toward unparalleled levels of excellence and satisfaction. Learn more at http://www.RichtechRobotics.com and connect with us on X (Twitter), LinkedIn, and YouTube.

    About Ghost Kitchens International (GKI)

    With restaurants across Canada and the US, GKI is expanding to open 240 new restaurants under the ONE KITCHEN banner in USA and Canada. Each restaurant features multiple national brands made to order, a single operator, innovative front and back-of-house technology, and walk-in and delivery customers. For more information go to http://www.ghostkitchenbrands.com.

    Forward Looking Statements

    Certain statements in this press release are forward-looking within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements may be identified by the use of forward-looking words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “forecast,” “estimate,” “expect,” and “intend,” among others. Forward-looking statements are predictions, projections and other statements about future events that are based on current expectations and assumptions and, as a result, are subject to risks and uncertainties. Such forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the anticipated success and benefits of the partnership with Ghost Kitchens America, including the ability of each location to generated expected annual revenue.

    These forward-looking statements are based on Richtech Robotics’ current expectations and actual results could differ materially. There are a number of factors that could cause actual events to differ materially from those indicated by such forward-looking statements include, among others, risks and uncertainties related to the parties’ ability to negotiate and execute a definitive agreement in connection with the LOI; Richtech Robotics’ ability to implement the definitive agreement; the ability of each location to generated the expected amount of annual revenue; and Richtech Robotics’ ability to realize the benefits described herein. Investors should read the risk factors set forth in Richtech Robotics’ Annual Report on Form 10-K/A, filed with the SEC on March 27, 2024, the Registration Statement and periodic reports filed with the SEC on or after the date thereof. All of Richtech Robotics’ forward-looking statements are expressly qualified by all such risk factors and other cautionary statements. The information set forth herein speaks only as of the date thereof. New risks and uncertainties arise over time, and it is not possible for Richtech Robotics to predict those events or how they may affect Richtech Robotics. If a change to the events and circumstances reflected in Richtech Robotics’ forward-looking statements occurs, Richtech Robotics’ business, financial condition and operating results may vary materially from those expressed in Richtech Robotics’ forward-looking statements.

    Readers are cautioned not to put undue reliance on forward-looking statements, and Richtech Robotics assumes no obligation and does not intend to update or revise these forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

    Contact:

    Investors:
    CORE IR
    Matt Blazei
    ir@richtechrobotics.com

    Media: 
    Timothy Tanksley
    Director of Marketing
    Richtech Robotics, Inc
    press@richtechrobotics.com
    702-534-0050

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Celebrating 40 years of offshore wildlife recording Four decades of a unique partnership to chronicle the birds and other wildlife seen from North Sea oil and gas platforms has been celebrated in a new book.

    Source: University of Aberdeen

    Four decades of a unique partnership to chronicle the birds and other wildlife seen from North Sea oil and gas platforms has been celebrated in a new book.
    From 1979 to 2019 the North Sea Bird Club and the University of Aberdeen worked together to record and identify birds, marine animals, bats and moths and butterflies viewed from more than 250 offshore installations by over 400 observers.
    While it had been known for many years that birds cross the North Sea in very large numbers – especially in spring and autumn – it was quickly noted that those working offshore were in a unique situation to provide details of the species involved and their numbers.
    In November 1984, one offshore worker on the Maureen platform was recorded as saying: “On opening the door from the control room it appeared to be snowing. The sky was full of birds in every direction – Blackbirds, thrushes, Snow Buntings, Lapwings and even some Canada Geese. In addition there were at least 50+ owls. I’d estimate the numbers to be hundreds of thousands around the platform”
    To take advantage of this unique viewpoint, in 1979 the North Sea Bird Club was formed by a group of senior oil industry executives, and a collaboration with the University of Aberdeen began which would see more than 120,000 records sent in over the next four decades.
    The history of the partnership and the fascinating wildlife sightings and identification it led to has been set out in a book by Andrew Thorpe, the club’s former Recorder who was employed on a part-time basis by the University as a Research Assistant between 1999 and 2019.
    The North Sea Bird Club 1979-2019 mixes entertaining anecdotes, interesting facts and hard data to tell the story.
    Andrew said: “Back in 1979, it was thanks to the foresight of Professor George Dunnet, Regius Professor of Natural History at the University and other associates that the Club was created.
    “He continued to act as an adviser to the club and we drew heavily on University expertise. Being located within the Zoology Department, we were able to access other specialists – Dr Mark Young  provided support with identification of butterflies and moths sent from offshore, Professor Paul Racey provided guidance for those who found bats on offshore installations and Mr Kenn Watt was a hoverfly expert in the department who helped with identification.
    “Marine animals offshore were also recorded and the University’s Oceanlab staff were able to assist here.”
    Although the club was wound up with the downturn of the industry in 1999, the records it received, maintained by the University, continue to be used for academic research.
    “A Club Secretary in 1990 wrote ‘The North Sea Bird Club is a unique organisation operating in a unique environment’ and that remained true throughout the 40 years,” Andrew added.
    “Records came from all over the North Sea and allowed us to put together a picture of where birds were moving at peak migration times and this could often be related to similar patterns of arrival onshore.
    “The 120,000 record database the University helped us to create has been used to provide data to many interested parties. For example several different University students requested data on Buzzard feathers, Twite records offshore, Porbeagle shark and bat records.
    “Professor Racey, formerly of the University, informed us that much valuable information about the occurrence of Nathusius’ pipistrelle bat had been obtained from offshore records of that species. Certain corpses of dead birds found offshore were passed to The National Museum Scotland for their collections.
    The North Sea Bird Club 1979-2019 is available at £21.00 (inc p&p) to purchase directly from Andrew Thorpe by emailing Andrew.Thorpe147@btinternet.com.
     
    Interesting Facts from the North Sea Bird Club         
    Many common ‘garden’ birds regularly cross the North Sea;
    Blackbirds, robins, chaffinches, blue tits, crows and owls are all regularly reported from rigs in the North sea;
    Even tiny wrens cross the North Sea.  In 1998, a total of 58 wrens was reported from offshore installations;
    Blackbirds and thrushes can cross the North Sea in large numbers, usually in autumn.  In 1979, over 30,000 blackbirds were reported offshore;
    In November 1984, an exceptional number of birds landed on the Maureen platform during very bad weather – some 200-300,000 were estimated including 40-50 owls;
    Starlings regularly cross the North Sea in spring and autumn in very large numbers.  A flock of an estimated 50,000 was seen to pass by Auk Alpha in 1984!
    Ringed birds are often found dead on rigs;
    A Starling that was ringed in Poland in May 1992 was found on the Hewett platform in December that year.  It had travelled over 1500km;
    A Blue Tit ringed in Norway in July 1988 was found on Beryl B, halfway between Norway and the Shetland Isles;
    The first British record of a Pacific Swift came from Shell BT platform in 1981.  It normally breeds in the Far East and migrates to Australia!
    It’s not only birds that were reported:
    Over 300 killer whales have been seen offshore and reported. 20-30 were around Brae B in April 1988 and one remained there for almost a year (photo);
    Butterflies, moths and dragonflies are regularly reported too;
    A Blue Dasher dragonfly from America which was found on an unmanned rig near Shetland was the first record in Europe!
    Bats are occasionally found and sent in;
    The NSBC has provided much valuable information on the Nathusius’ pipistrelle bat which previously was rarely recorded in the UK.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: World Day against the Death Penalty 2024: Joint statement to the OSCE

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    The UK and other OSCE participating States mark World Day against the Death Penalty at the OSCE.

    Location:
    Vienna
    Delivered on:
    (Transcript of the speech, exactly as it was delivered)

    Thank you Mr Chair,

    I am speaking on behalf of Canada, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, San Marino, the United Kingdom and my own country Switzerland.

    The 10th of October marked the 22nd World Day against the Death Penalty.

    We categorically oppose the death penalty under all circumstances, it is not consistent with human rights, including the right to life. In this context, we welcome the fact that the global trend towards the abolition of capital punishment continues unabated in all parts of the world, including the OSCE region. Today, almost three-quarters of states are abolitionist, either in law or in practice. Amid growing pressure on human rights and increasing instability, this positive development – that crosses the globe – should not go unnoticed.

    However, it should also not invite complacency in our collective efforts against the death penalty, especially given recent setbacks observed. Last year, recorded global executions soared to their highest number in almost a decade.

    In light of this, it is important to emphasize that the death penalty neither makes communities safer nor serves as a deterrent to crime. On the contrary, it exacerbates cycles of violence and is often used as a tool of repression. Responding to a crime, no matter how heinous, by committing another crime should never be the solution.

    As of today, only two participating States of the OSCE continue to apply capital punishment: Belarus and the United States. Regarding Belarus, we deeply deplore the fact that the use of the death penalty has been extended twice in recent years. We therefore urge the Belarusian authorities to reverse this trend and establish a moratorium on executions as a first step towards abolition.

    We also remain concerned that capital punishment continues to be used in the United States. We welcome the current moratorium on Federal executions and we call on the relevant US authorities to commute all Federal death sentences into prison terms

    Mr Chair,

    Our countries are committed to the universal abolition of the death penalty and call on all States, both within and beyond the OSCE, to completely abolish capital punishment or, as a first step, establish a moratorium on its use. In this context, we urge all participating States to vote in favour of the UN resolution, currently under negotiation at the UN General Assembly, which calls for a moratorium on capital punishment.

    Thank you, Mr Chair.

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Government of Canada and Atlantic Coastal Action Program Launch Major Reforestation Project in Cape Breton

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    News release

    October 17, 2024                                Sydney, Nova Scotia                         Natural Resources Canada

    Today, Jaime Battiste, Member of Parliament for Sydney–Victoria, Nova Scotia, on behalf of the Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, along with the Atlantic Coastal Action Program (ACAP) Cape Breton announced a joint investment of more than $1.2 million to plant over 208,000 trees in eastern Cape Breton through the 2 Billion Trees (2BT) program.

    The trees will be planted over four years. Outcomes of this will include:

    • Restoration of ecosystems in areas of eastern Cape Breton that had been deforested.
    • The planting of 208,000 trees, along with native plants and shrubs.
    • Habitat restoration for diverse flora and fauna in Nova Scotia.
    • Increased local capacity to plant and maintain trees thanks to workforce training, mentorship opportunities and student partnerships.
    • Increased community knowledge of forest restoration practices that help mitigate floods and other extreme weather events.

    The 2BT program helps to clean the air, create jobs and fight climate change while protecting nature. By working together with provinces, territories, local communities, non- and for-profit organizations and Indigenous Peoples, Canada continues to build a strong, healthy and green future for generations to come.

    Quotes

    “Forests clean the air we breathe, make our urban spaces more enjoyable, provide new habitats for wildlife and help us adapt to our changing climate while also mitigating its impacts by sequestering carbon emissions. The funding announced today will play an important role in bringing these benefits to Nova Scotians and will help achieve our federal government’s ambitious goal of planting two billion trees over a decade. Through this project, we are showing how collaborative work can ensure that the right tree is planted at the right place at the right time for the benefit of all Canadians.” 

    The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson
    Canada’s Minister of Energy and Natural Resources 

    “Partnership and collaboration play a critical role in the sustainable management of our forests and tackling the dual crisis of climate change and biodiversity loss. The Government of Canada is pleased to be partnering with the Atlantic Coastal Action Program-Cape Breton to continue making progress toward planting trees that will clean the air we breathe, improve water quality and mitigate climate change across Canada, creating a healthier environment for generations to come.”

    Jaime Battiste
    Member of Parliament, Sydney–Victoria, Nova Scotia

    “Trees planted as part of the 2 Billion Trees program create greener, healthier and more resilient communities in the face of a changing climate. Canada is supporting the Atlantic Coastal Action Program-Cape Breton to support the restoration of Canada’s forests and important habitats, all while ensuring there is cleaner air and sustainable jobs in communities across Canada.”

    Mike Kelloway
    Member of Parliament, Cape Breton–Canso, Nova Scotia

    “We are honoured to be part of Canada’s 2 Billion Trees commitment here in Unama’ki-Cape Breton. The trees we plant will help restore forest ecosystems and create a more-resilient climate legacy for our communities as well as the creatures we share this land with. These lands will not only sequester carbon but also provide habitat, food and shade for our warming lands and waters and help filter water in the watersheds that furnish our drinking water.”

    Dr. Kathleen Aikens
    Executive Director, ACAP Cape Breton

    Quick facts

    • Since 2021, the Government of Canada has been supporting governments and organizations across the country to plant trees to help meet the Government of Canada’s commitment to planting two billion trees. 

    • The 2 Billion Trees program collaborates with partners to understand their plans for preparing sites, how they are selecting species and how they plan to monitor after planting. Partners report every year, and the program conducts site visits and will be using remote sensing to monitor the progress and the health of the trees. By ensuring the initial job is done well, nature can then thrive, maintaining the long-term health of forested sites.

    • To date, the Government of Canada has secured or is negotiating agreements to plant over 553 million trees.  

    Associated links

    Contacts

    Natural Resources Canada
    Media Relations
    343-292-6100
    media@nrcan-rncan.gc.ca

    Cindy Caturao
    Press Secretary
    Office of the Minister of Energy and Natural Resources
    Cindy.caturao@nrcan-rncan.gc.ca

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    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Gov. Kemp Announces 107 Appointments to Boards, Authorities, and Commissions

    Source: US State of Georgia

    For Immediate Release

    Friday, October 11, 2024

    Gov. Kemp Announces 107 Appointments to Boards, Authorities, and Commissions

    Atlanta, GA – Today, Governor Brian P. Kemp announced 107 appointments and reappointments to various state boards, authorities, and commissions.

     

    Georgia Maternal and Infant Health Advisory Commission 

    Keisha Callins is an accomplished obstetrician-gynecologist and public health expert with extensive experience in clinical practice, academic leadership, research, and community service. She holds a Doctor of Medicine from Morehouse School of Medicine and a Master of Public Health from the University of Alabama. Currently, she serves as an OB-GYN at Community Health Care Systems in Georgia and holds multiple faculty appointments, including a professorship at Mercer University School of Medicine. Callins has held various leadership roles, including serving as the Chair of the National Advisory Council on the National Health Service Corps. Callins has received numerous awards and recognitions for her contributions, including the 2024 Ruth Hartley Mosely “Pioneer of Community Advancement” Award and the 2024 Macon Volunteer Clinic Healthcare Hero award. She is actively involved in various professional organizations and community initiatives, advocating for maternal and women’s health, rural healthcare, and medical education. Additionally, she has published various research articles and contributed to discussions on healthcare policies, particularly in underserved communities.

    Amanda “Shea” Evans is a board-certified neonatologist. She is a partner in Marietta Neonatology and currently serves as the Wellstar Health System Medical Director of Neonatal Intensive Care Services and the medical director of the Level 3 Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Wellstar Kennestone Regional Hospital. Evans completed her medical degree at Mercer University School of Medicine and went on to complete her residency in Pediatrics and Fellowship in Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine at Emory University School of Medicine. Throughout her career, Evans has been dedicated to advancing the care of high-risk infants in community-based hospitals. In addition to her clinical work, Evans is actively involved in hospital committees and initiatives. Evans has received several accolades, including the March of Dimes Heroes in Action Award. She is a proud member of the American Academy of Pediatrics and is committed to the advancement of neonatal care.

    Shannon Mayfield is a nurse midwife at Advanced Women’s Care Center, where she provides comprehensive care to women across various socioeconomic backgrounds. She specializes in cost-effective, patient-centered care; emphasizes education on maternal health; and collaborates with perinatology for high-risk cases. Mayfield received her education from Gordon State College, Clayton State College and University, and Frontier Nursing Academy. Previously, she worked as a Registered Nurse at Piedmont Henry. Her earlier roles include serving as a Certified Nurse Midwife at New Beginnings Comprehensive Women’s Healthcare and Life Cycle OB/GYN.

    Monica Newton began her education at Auburn University studying pre-med psychology followed by medical school at Midwestern University in Chicago. While in Family Medicine residency at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, she obtained a Master of Public Health in International Health. After residency, she began teaching at UAB-Selma Family Medicine Residency Program while completing a fellowship in obstetrics. Recognizing the overwhelming needs in her community, she completed a faculty fellowship in underserved medicine through the University of California-San Diego. Moved to action, she started a free clinic called “Family Doc in a Bus” with grant funding from the Alabama Department of Public Health and FEMA. She was elected by the community to serve on the Selma City Council and the Alabama Academy of Family Physicians as a regional vice president. After serving 11 years as an associate professor of family medicine, Newton moved with her family to Gainesville, Georgia, and joined the Northeast Georgia Physicians Group. To meet the current challenges in health care, Newton completed a master’s in population health from Thomas Jefferson University in 2016.

    Marlo Vernon is an associate professor at the Georgia Prevention Institute, with an appointment in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at the Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, and memberships with the Georgia Cancer Center, the Institute for Public and Preventive Health, and the Georgia Prevention Institute. She is the Principal Investigator and developer of VidaRPM – a remote self-monitoring application for blood pressure and mental health. Additionally, Vernon is the Project Director of Mothers Informed Lactation Knowledge and Support (MILKS) and the Co-Project Director for Access to Services for Pregnant and Postpartum Persons in Northeast Georgia (ASPiriNG).

    Padmashree “Champa” Woodham is a professor in the Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, MFM Fellowship Program Director at the Medical College of Georgia, and Director of the Regional Perinatal Center at Wellstar MCG Health. She received her bachelor’s degree from Emory University in 2001. She attended Emory University School of Medicine to complete her MD and remained at Emory to finish her Internship and Residency in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology in 2009. Woodham went on to complete a fellowship in Maternal-Fetal Medicine at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She is board-certified in Obstetrics and Gynecology and Maternal-Fetal Medicine. Woodham joined the faculty of Mercer School of Medicine at the Medical Center Atrium Health Navicent in Macon as the Director of Maternal-Fetal Medicine in August 2012, where she spent the first 10 years of her career. During that time, Woodham served numerous leadership roles, including Director of the Regional Perinatal Center, Chair of the Finance Council, and Vice Chair of the Atrium Health Navicent Leadership Council. Among her various honors and achievements, she received the ACOG/CREOG National Faculty Award. Woodham was the 2022-2023 President of the Georgia OBGYN Society. She provides high-risk obstetric care to patients with a range of complex maternal and fetal conditions. Her research involves predictive markers for preeclampsia and techniques to better predict growth restriction on fetal ultrasound.

     

     

    Georgia Motor Vehicle Crime Prevention Advisory Board 

    Woodrow W. Blue, Jr is the Chief of Police for the City of Forsyth. He has over 44 years of law enforcement experience and over 40 years as a Chief of Police. Blue began his career in law enforcement with the Hahira Police Department, where he was appointed Chief of Police at the age of 26. In September of 2000, he accepted the position of Deputy Police Chief of the City of Milledgeville and, in 2002, he was appointed Police Chief. He has also served as Chief of Police for the City of Eastpoint and for the City of Donaldsonville. Blue graduated from Valdosta State University with a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice and earned a master’s degree in public administration from Columbus State University. He is a 2003 graduate of the Georgia Command College, Class 8, and a 2004 graduate of the Georgia International Law Enforcement Exchange Program. Blue has served as president of the Georgia Association of Chiefs of Police, is a former member of the Board of Private Detectives and Security Agencies, and has served on the Peace Officer Standard and Training Board as the Georgia Association Chief of Police representative. Blue and his wife, Elese, have two kids and three grandchildren.  

    Derick Corbett is the senior vice president of external affairs at Pull-A-Part, where he oversees all government and regulatory affairs, compliance, and community relations work for Pull-A-Part’s 37 facilities in the 16 states it serves. Upon graduating from the University of Georgia with degrees in political science and economics, Corbett began what would become a 20 year career in public service. Corbett served with Congressman John Linder from October 2000 to December 2010, holding various positions on his Congressional staff and campaign staff, including communications director, deputy chief of staff, and chief of staff. In 2010, he served as campaign manager for Rob Woodall and went on to become Congressman Woodall’s chief of staff and campaign manager until 2020. He currently serves as a board member for the Georgia Recycling Association, the State Recycling Association of Alabama, and the Recycling Association of North Carolina. Corbett also serves as Chairman of the Automotive Recycling Committee for the Institute of Scrap Recycling Industries, the largest international recycling trade association in the world. Corbett is a member of the Georgia Chamber of Commerce and serves on the Energy and Natural Resources and Government Affairs Committees.

    John “Herb” Cranford, Jr. is the District Attorney for the Coweta Judicial Circuit, comprised of Carroll, Coweta, Heard, Meriwether, and Troup Counties. Cranford was born and raised in Coweta County and is a third generation prosecutor. He obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Religion from the University of Georgia and a Juris Doctor from Mercer University’s Walter F. George School of Law. During law school, Cranford worked as a judicial clerk for the Honorable W. Homer Drake, Jr. of the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Northern District of Georgia and then as an intern for the Coweta Circuit District Attorney’s Office. Upon graduating law school, he was hired as an Assistant District Attorney in the same office, working in Carroll County and Coweta County. In February 2018, Governor Nathan Deal appointed him as District Attorney to fill the remainder of his predecessor’s term and he has since been re-elected twice. Cranford has received recognition for his focus on prosecuting criminal street gangs, including obtaining the first guilty verdict in a gang trial in the Coweta Judicial Circuit. In 2021, he was appointed by the Supreme Court of Georgia to serve on the State Bar’s Disciplinary Board and he was elected by his fellow Georgia District Attorneys to serve as Treasurer for the District Attorneys’ Association of Georgia and the Georgia representative to the National District Attorneys Association.

    Harshida Davis is the group risk manager-Atlanta for Enterprise Holdings Inc., which does business as Enterprise Rent-A-Car, Alamo Rent-A-Car, National Car Rental, Enterprise Car Sales, Enterprise Truck Rental, and Commute with Enterprise. In her role, she oversees the Risk Management Department. After earning her bachelor’s degree from the State University of New York at Geneseo with a major in sociology and psychology, she started with Enterprise in 2001 as a rental management trainee and was promoted to the risk management department in 2002. Before joining the Atlanta group in 2019, Davis managed risk programs for Enterprise Truck Rental in North Carolina; Enterprise on the southside of Chicago and northwest Indiana; Enterprise, Alamo, and National at O’Hare and Midway; and all divisions in southwest Florida. In addition to her day-to-day responsibilities, Davis is also a member of the Georgia Auto Theft Intelligence Council and most recently spearheaded the addition of the Top Investigator of the Year-Crimes against property and Top Investigator of the Year-Crimes against persons awards at the annual ASIS Law Enforcement Appreciation Day. Dedicated to her community, Davis has sat on the board of the Literacy Council of the Gulf Coast and was a leader on the Go Red for Women Committee for the American Heart Association – Gulf Coast. Davis and her husband, Jon, have two children and reside in Atlanta.  

    Scott Goss is a senior manager of Geico’s Special Investigation Unit. He attended Georgia State University and studied criminal justice. Later, he attended Reinhardt College and studied business administration. He lives in Carnesville with his wife and family.

    Stacey Ellis Hodges takes an active role in Jim Ellis Automotive. Hodges has been working in the dealership in a full-time capacity since graduating with a bachelor’s in marketing from Georgia Southern University in 1999. Initially, her summer jobs involved administrative positions from accounting to cashiering. Once she returned from college in Statesboro, her full-time career began as a service advisor for the Audi and Porsche brands. Hodges soon moved into Audi sales, then transitioned into management. She has been a general manager for Saab, Mazda, and Maserati brands at Jim Ellis, becoming a vice president of Audi Atlanta in 2015. Today, Ellis oversees the automotive group’s directors, keeping her close to the operations as a whole and up to date on technologies and processes for the dealership group. She also serves as a corporate officer over the Company’s associated business entities. Hodges and her husband, Greg, reside in Cumming. She is actively involved in her children’s schools, recreational activities, their local church, and various charities.

    Chip Koplin has over 35 years of experience in the scrap recycling and used auto parts industries. He is the government and public affairs manager for the southeast region of Radius Recycling (formerly Schnitzer Steel Industries), focusing on metals recycling, steel manufacturing, and auto parts recovery. Previously, he served as Vice President of External Affairs at Pull-A-Part, LLC and worked for 23 years at Macon Iron & Paper Stock, a multi-generation family business before its sale to Schnitzer Steel Industries. Koplin has also co-owned General Steel Company and Commercial Doors and Associates. He is deeply involved in trade associations, including the Institute of Scrap Recycling Industries, where he serves as chair of the Material Theft Subcommittee and has held various leadership roles. Koplin is also a past president and founding board member of the Georgia Recyclers Association. His extensive board involvement includes the Georgia Chamber of Commerce, Stonecrest Industrial Council, and various other organizations. He is a 2009 Graduate of Leadership Georgia, a 2012 program chair, and a member of the Georgia Professional Lobbyists Association. Koplin attended Georgia State University where he earned a bachelor’s degree in real estate.  He and his two children reside in Atlanta.  

    Josh Lamb serves as the director of administrative services of the Department of Public Safety. In his role, he oversees the Office of Professional Standards, the Human Resources Division, the Public Information Office, and Legislative Affairs. Previously, he served as the chief of staff. Lamb began his law enforcement career as a Special Agent with the Tri-Circuit Drug Task Force in 1996. In 1999, he joined the Georgia State Patrol after he graduated from the 74th Georgia State Patrol Trooper School. Throughout his career, he has served as Corporal at Post 11 – Hinesville; Sergeant in Post 45 – Statesboro; and Sergeant First Class at Post 45, Post 16 – Helena and Post 18 – Reidsville. Lamb also spent eight years as a member of the State of Georgia SWAT team.  He served as lieutenant in the Planning and Research Unit where he created departmental policy, assisted in planning special events such as the 2018 National College Championship Game and Super Bowl LIII, and worked on legislative affairs such as the distracted driving law. Lamb has been the Director of Training, SWAT Team Commander, Executive Officer to the Deputy Commissioner, and Chief of Staff. Lamb holds a bachelor’s degree in justice studies from Georgia Southern University and a master’s degree in public administration from Columbus State University. He also attended the 259th Session of the FBI National Academy. Lt. Colonel Lamb and his wife, Alison, have two daughters.

    Scott Poole earned his Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Berry College in 1994 before attending Georgia State University College of Law. While in law school, he completed internships with Superior Court Judge Stanley Gault and Fulton Senior Superior Court Judge William Daniel. After graduating, Scott served as an Assistant District Attorney in Cherokee County from 1997 to 2008, handling a range of cases from theft to murder and successfully prosecuting the county’s first racketeering case under the Georgia RICO statute. In 2008, he joined the Appalachian Judicial Circuit as Senior Assistant District Attorney in Pickens County, managing the office and focusing on severe cases like violent offenses and drug trafficking. Scott built a reputation as an effective litigator and teacher, instructing drug prosecutors through the Prosecuting Attorney’s Council of Georgia and being certified by the Georgia Peace Officer Standards and Training Council. In January 2013, he transitioned to private practice, co-founding Grisham & Poole, P.C. Recognized as a Super Lawyer since 2021, he was appointed Municipal Court Judge for the City of Ball Ground in 2022. He and his wife, Jennifer, have one daughter and reside in Ball Ground.

    Rick Redd has been employed with the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NCIB) as a special agent since 2018, where he covers the State of Georgia. Prior to working for the NICB, Redd retired as Detective Sergeant of the Marietta Police Department after 30 years of service, mostly spent in the Investigative Services Division. He is currently the president of the Georgia Auto Theft Intelligence Council, past president of the International Association of Auto Theft Investigators (southeast chapter), and a board member of the International Association of Special Investigation Units. Redd resides with his wife of 40 years in Canton.

    Matthew Rollins serves on the Superior Court of the Paulding Judicial Circuit, appointed by Governor Kemp in March 2024. He previously served as the District Attorney of the Paulding Judicial Circuit and as an Assistant District Attorney in the same office. Rollins served four years on active duty in the United States Marine Corps. After receiving an Honorable Discharge, he attended Kennesaw State University, where he received his bachelor’s in political science, and Mercer Law School, where he received his J.D. An active member of his community, Rollins is a member of the Dallas Lodge, the Paulding Rotary Club, and the Paulding Bar Association. Rollins and his wife, Minna, have one child and live in Acworth

    Lori Silverman attended Tulane University in New Orleans LA where she majored in Spanish. Upon graduating from Tulane, Silverman received her J.D.  from Emory University. After graduating from Emory, she began working for the Fulton County Public Defender. She then worked in private practice for many years. Silverman volunteered with the Consumer Action Center for five years before becoming the director in 2013.

    Lenn Wood is the Sheriff of Coweta County. He has dedicated over 40 years to law enforcement, starting with the Newnan Police Department before joining the Coweta County Sheriff’s Office. His extensive career includes roles in Patrol, Investigations, School Resource, Training, Jail, and Court Services. His transparency initiatives include working with international broadcast projects like Investigative ID and “On Patrol Live” to build trust with the community. He has also led efforts against human trafficking, improving victim recognition and collaborating with state and federal agencies. His emphasis on comprehensive training—requiring officers to complete at least forty hours of continuing education annually—demonstrates his dedication to maintaining high-performance standards.

     

    State Board of Occupational Therapy 

    Betsy McDaniel is the Chair of the Department of Rehabilitation Science and Fitness at Middle Georgia State University. McDaniel holds a master’s degree in health & human performance from Georgia College and State University, along with dual associate degrees and a bachelor’s degree from Middle Georgia State University. At Middle Georgia State University, she has served as Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) Program Director and Academic Fieldwork Coordinator, where she has been instrumental in overseeing curriculum development, faculty management, and maintaining program accreditation. McDaniel has developed and enhanced various OTA courses. She is actively involved in university committees and professional associations, including the American Occupational Therapy Association and the Georgia Occupational Therapy Association. Additionally, McDaniel maintains her clinical skills as a PRN Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant at Southwest Georgia Rehab.

     

    State Workforce Development Board 

    Lindsay Hill serves as the senior vice president of human resources at Georgia Power, where she spearheads initiatives in talent management; diversity, equity and inclusion; labor relations; safety; facilities; and HR delivery. Hill is a member of Georgia Power’s Management Council. Since joining Georgia Power in 2001, she has served as vice president of human resources at Southern Company Gas and HR director at Georgia Power. In addition to her professional responsibilities, Hill is active in the community. She is the president and CEO of the board for Bright Generations Childcare Centers and serves on the boards of the Atlanta Women’s Foundation and the Atlanta Ballet. Hill earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration with a focus on marketing from Valdosta State University and a master’s degree in organizational leadership from Troy University. She was named a 2023 Valdosta State University Distinguished Alumni recipient, and she is a 2024 participant in Leadership Georgia.

    Amy Jordon is the chief nursing officer currently overseeing Advent Health Redmond and the southeast region. In this role, Jordon manages care integration, performance improvement, and nursing education while collaborating on regional and system-wide initiatives. She is focused on clinical workforce planning and academic partnerships to enhance the clinician pipeline and improve care delivery across the network. Since 2005, she has held CNO roles at Advent Health Gordon and Advent Health Murray, showcasing a deep expertise in nursing leadership and patient care. She earned her bachelor’s and master’s in nursing from the University of West Georgia.

     

    State Licensing Board for Residential and General Contractors 

    Omar Ali was reappointed.

     

    State Commission on Family Violence 

    Michael Moore is the Madison County Sheriff. Moore began his law enforcement career at the Clarke County Jail. In 2003, he graduated from the Northeast Georgia Police Academy as a certified peace officer and began as a deputy sheriff with the Madison County Sheriff’s Office until he was elected sheriff in 2016. Moore has earned more than 1400 total law enforcement training hours throughout his career. He became a member of the Neese Sanford Volunteer Fire Department at age 18 and then transferred to the Colbert Volunteer Fire Department where he worked to the rank of Captain. Moore is a member of the Madison County Rotary Club and the Madison County Board of Education Governance Committee for Madison County Middle School. A Madison County business owner, Moore owned and operated Moore’s Trucking and Moore Tire in Colbert.  He and his wife, Toni, reside in Colbert and have four children.

     

    Board of Directors of the Georgia Emergency Communications Authority 

    Sam Couvillon is the Mayor of Gainesville, Georgia and a partner with Norton Insurance. At Norton, he is the area president of the Benefits Department. Couvillon began his insurance career in 2002 with New England Financial as both a financial planner and employee benefits agent.  Holding true to the values of Norton, he is very involved in the community. In addition to serving as mayor, Couvillon serves on numerous boards in the community. He previously served on the city council serving Ward 1 from 2014-2021. Couvillon received his bachelor’s degree in communication from the University of Georgia. He and his wife, Margie, have two children.  

    Michael Persley is the Chief of Police for the City of Albany. He was promoted to Chief on May 23, 2015. Persley has been employed with the Albany Police Department for 30 years and has held numerous positions within the department. He was previously the gang unit commander, east district police commander, and assistant commander of the Albany-Dougherty Metro SWAT Team where he has served as an entry team member, assistant team leader, team leader, and negotiations commander. His other assignments have included working in narcotics, general, and gang investigations. Persley has a master’s degree in administration/justice and security from the University of Phoenix, and a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Troy University. Persley has over 2800 hours of basic and advanced police training. He is a graduate of the IACP Leadership in Police Organization and the Northwestern School of Police Staff and Command. Persely is a member of the Georgia Association Chiefs of Police, where he serves as a district representative, and the International Association of Chiefs of Police, where he serves on the board of directors. He serves on several community boards and committees, including Stop the Violence and the Dougherty County Rotary Club. Persley is retired from the Georgia Army National Guard after serving for over 22 years. He served on deployments to Bosnia-Herzegovina, Iraq, and Afghanistan.

    Mikki Quinones serves as the division commander for Houston County E-911, with a distinguished career spanning over three decades in public safety communications. She began her career in 1991 as one of the first civilian personnel at Houston County E-911 and, by 1994, she had advanced to shift supervisor. In 2000, Quinones became the 911 operations coordinator, where she spearheaded the implementation of a countywide CAD system and an 800MHz radio system. Quinones is a certified peace officer and has led multi-million-dollar projects, including the redesign of the 911 center and the upgrade of the 800MHz system. She was instrumental in achieving CALEA accreditation for Houston County E-911, which has since earned four reaccreditations. In 2021, she was promoted to captain and completed NENA’s Center Manager Certification Program and the Georgia 911 Director’s Academy. She is a certified instructor with Peace Officer Standards and Training and also serves as an emergency medical dispatch instructor. Beyond her professional work, she is a member of the Houston County Department of Family and Children Services Board. She and her husband, Manny, have three children and two grandchildren.

     

    State Rehabilitation Council 

    Juliet Hardeman, Jerry Haywood, Kathryn Hearn, and Joy Norman were reappointed.

     

    Georgia Driver’s Education Commission 

    Andrea Daniel currently serves as the president of Athens Technical College. She has served the College for over 27 years. Daniel began her career working in the office of Senator Sam Nunn and supported the work of the Armed Services Committee. She went on to work as a senior planning analyst for the Atlanta Regional Commission on projects such as the Outer Loop Study, Vision 2020 Education Stakeholder Committee, planning and zoning studies, and Olympic Transportation Planning. Daniel has completed the Executive Leadership Academy of the Technical College System of Georgia and she is a graduate of L.E.A.D. Athens Class of 2008. She has also completed the Georgia Tech Annual Basic Economic Development Course, and the Georgia Regional Academy for Economic Development Essentials of Economic Development course. In January 2020, Daniel was elected and nominated by a group of her peers to serve on the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) Board of Trustees. For her efforts in demonstrating excellence, creativity and success in business and furthering the goals or other professional women, Daniel was presented the Athena Award in February 2020. In November 2020, she received the Elbert County Native Citizen Award during the annual meeting of the Elbert County Chamber of Commerce. Daniel has a bachelor’s degree in political science from Lander University, a master’s degree in public administration from the University of Georgia, and a PhD in business administration specializing in organizational leadership from Northcentral University. She and her husband, Sterling, have one daughter.

     

    Sexual Offender Risk Review Board 

    Mindy Ackerman, Jerry Bruce, J. Robert Frederick, Katie Gropper, James Morton and Bert Reeves were reappointed. 

    Elizabeth Bigham has been a special agent with the Georgia Bureau of Investigation for 17 years. Currently, she works in GBI’s Office of Special Investigations in the Cold Case Unit. For most of her career with the GBI, she was assigned to the Child Exploitation and Computer Crimes Unit (CEACC), conducting over 600 criminal investigations involving child exploitation. Bigham received a bachelor’s in criminology from Florida State University and has used her degree to instruct others at conferences in Georgia and around the world. Bingham has also provided expert testimony to General Assembly study committees and Georgia state courts.

    Meghan Thurmond serves as a victim advocate at the Paulding County District Attorney’s Office. In this role, she has supported victims and witnesses, managed crime victim compensation referrals, and worked towards becoming a nationally certified advocate. She is passionate about advocating on behalf of victims, especially those unable to voice their needs. She began her career in 2007 at the Cobb County Solicitor General’s Office as a traffic secretary, where she supported staff in a 100 person office to ensure traffic compliance. In 2017, she became a judicial administrative assistant at the Cobb County District Attorney’s Office, providing her with extensive experience in case management and fostering professional relationships.

     

    Georgia Council on Developmental Disabilities 

    Wesley Ford, Lisa Newbern, and Sharia Stripling were reappointed.

    Jessica Cowell is from Columbus, Georgia. She earned her G.E.D. after attending Central High School. She went to Columbus State University to study theatre.

    Dayna Holbel is an educational consultant and member of the Education Transition Team at the Emory Autism Center. In her role, she works closely with students, parents, and school personnel to support successful post-secondary outcomes for autistic students through the Individual Transition to Adulthood (ITAP) project. Holbel received her bachelor’s in English and history from the University of Michigan, and her master’s degree in education in transition specialist and special education from Wayne State University. She also has experience working in Fulton County Schools as a transition services teacher and currently operates a tutoring company called Wonder Tree Tutoring.

    Tais Keyser is a stay-at-home mom and advocate for disability rights and awareness. Two of her children are differently abled. She has worked with Unlock GA, a broad-based coalition whose mission is to expand and enhance home and community-based services to support Georgians with developmental disabilities.

    Brook Kubik is a part-time instructor at the University of North Georgia, teaching primarily chemistry, biology, and environmental science to undergraduate students through the online eCore platform.  Previously, she was an analytical research chemist at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in Atlanta. She holds a bachelor’s degree in biology from the University of West Georgia, a master’s in chemistry and a C.P.H. in Epidemiology from Georgia State University, and an Ed.S. in Curriculum and Instruction from Lincoln Memorial University. Kubik is a mother of five children ages 18 and under, three of whom are differently abled. After having children with various intellectual, developmental, and physical disabilities, and experiencing first-hand the lack of services and needs that we have in our communities, her passion has turned to providing support and education to disability families within her community and state.  Currently, Kubik is a parent advisory board member at the Marcus Autism Center and works with Georgia Swimming LSC/USA Swimming to bring inclusive competitive and learning opportunities to athletes of all abilities across the State of Georgia.

    Crystal St. Pierre-Stackpole is a dedicated special education teacher and community volunteer in Lafayette, Georgia. St. Pierre-Stackpole is committed to serving her local community, particularly those with special needs. Her career spans a variety of roles in education, including teaching nature-based pre-K, middle school resource classes, and high school vocational instruction. Currently, she works with elementary students with autism. Before she began teaching, St. Pierre-Stackpole worked in Chattanooga, Tennessee with local nonprofits as a volunteer coordinator, event planner, and outdoor educator. She has also worked as a CNA and home health worker while pursuing her education at Dalton State College. Inspired by her personal experiences supporting her brother, who has Down syndrome, she passionately advocates for families navigating special education and state services. St. Pierre-Stackpole actively participates in advocacy events, helping families understand their rights and connect with necessary resources. Her commitment to service and advocacy reflects her belief in the power of every individual’s voice and the need for collective advocacy.

    Jennifer Snyder is an outreach and advocacy coordinator for Living Independence for Everyone (LIFE ). In her role, she works to help people with significant disabilities transition from nursing homes and other institutions to home and community-based residences. She resides in Chatham County.

    Leslie Kate Thornton advocates for the human and civil rights of all people and equality for people with disabilities, especially in employment. She has spent several years working as a social media content developer. Thornton is passionate about community engagement and empowering individuals to make a positive impact. She resides in St. Mary’s, Georgia. 

    Dave Ward is the president & CEO of Tommy Nobis Center, bringing over 30 years of nonprofit experience. He previously served as executive vice president at the Wounded Warrior Project, executive director at Big Brothers Big Sisters, and regional director at Make-A-Wish Foundation. He also held a role at Best Buddies International and was a licensed psychotherapist. Ward is a Leadership Atlanta Class of 2020 graduate and a Governor-appointed member of the Georgia Employment First Council. He served as president of the Georgia Association of Training, Employment and Supports (GATES) from 2019-2023 and was nominated for the Turknett Leadership Group’s 2018 Leadership Character Award. He holds a bachelor’s in sociology and criminal justice and a master’s in rehabilitation counseling. Ward resides in Kennesaw with his family.

     

    State Water Well Standards Advisory Council 

    Clayton Wayne McKinnon, Sr. was reappointed.

     

    Board of Human Services

    Douglas Aldridge, Jr., David Barbee, Monica Walters, and Rochard White were reappointed.

     

    Board of Control for Southern Regional Education

    Greg Dozier and Matthew Dubnik were reappointed.

     

    Board of Early Care and Learning 

    Kristin Morrissey and Cristina Washell were reappointed.

    Kristy Beam will now serve as the Fourth Congressional District Representative.

    Jennifer Bennecke will now serve as the Sixth Congressional District Representative.

    Karla Zisook will now serve as the Fifth Congressional District Representative.

    Maria Franklin is a board-certified behavior analyst with a strong educational background and work experience in behavior analysis and support. She earned a graduate certificate in behavior analysis from Florida Institute of Technology in May 2023 and holds a master’s in applied psychology (developmental psychology) and a bachelor’s in psychology from Liberty University. Currently, Franklin works as a board-certified behavior analyst at North Georgia Autism Center, where she develops individualized therapeutic plans and conducts initial client assessments. Her previous roles include registered behavior technician at the same center providing one-on-one ABA therapy and various positions such as behavior support clinician and field trip coordinator. Franklin also served as a motor transport operator in the U.S. Army Reserve.

    Joyce Freeman is the early childhood care and education program chair and a full-time ECCE instructor at West Georgia Technical College(WGTC). In 2016, Freeman began her career at WGTC as an early childhood care and education adjunct instructor. Previously, she was a lead teacher, trainer, and supervisor at Western Arkansas Child Development and served as a lead teacher and assistant director at Early Head Start Child and Family Services. Freeman holds a Master of Arts in teaching early childhood from Arkansas Tech University, a Bachelor of Arts in organizational leadership from the University of Arkansas Fort Smith, and an Associate of Arts in early childhood education from Carl Albert University. Some of her notable accomplishments include serving on a workgroup writing team to revise the workforce knowledge competencies for program administrators and education leaders, implementing the federal work-study program at WGTC, and serving as a certified trainer in first aid/CPR and child protection. She is an active member of the Southern Early Childhood Association.

    Karen Jones has been an educator for 27 years and is currently employed with Houston County School District as a program specialist. A graduate of Georgia Southern University, she holds advanced degrees from Valdosta State University and Columbus State University. She has worked as a preschool teacher, elementary school teacher, and district-level administrator. She worked in New York, Germany, South Carolina, and Nebraska before arriving back home in Georgia. She has a wealth of knowledge in the field of early childhood education, special education, educational leadership, and curriculum. Jones has served as a member on the Middle Georgia Community Action Agency (MGCCA) Health Advisory team, Middle Georgia RESA Preschool Consortium Lead, and an instructor for MGRESA Dyslexia Endorsement Cohort. She is passionate about improving the outcomes of young children and supporting their families with early intervention resources.

    Sylvia Washington is a pediatrician with a background in clinical practice, academia, and community service. Board-certified in general pediatrics since 2011, she completed her Pediatric Residency at Mercer University Medical Center in 2010 and holds a Doctor of Medicine from New Jersey Medical School.  Washington graduated summa cum laude with a bachelor’s degree in biology from Howard University. She has served as a general pediatrician at Atrium Health Floyd Pediatrics since 2013, where she also chaired the Department of Pediatrics and directed the Reach Out and Read Program. Her previous roles include similar positions at East Albany Pediatric and Adolescent Center. Washington contributes to medical education as a preceptor for various institutions and has been involved in significant publications and research. Active in community service, she holds leadership roles with the Georgia Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics and engages in medical missions and youth outreach programs.

     

    State Board of Examiners for Speech Pathology and Audiology 

    Douglas Mattox was reappointed.

     

    Council on American Indian Concerns 

    Heidi Altman, Paul Brannen, Nealie McCormick, and Royce McCrary were reappointed.

    Maureen Meyers is a senior archaeologist with New South Associates, Inc. in Stone Mountain. She is an expert on pre-contact Native Americans of the southeast and has researched extensively on Native American settlement, households, ceramics, and fiber production. She is also an expert on archaeological field safety, sexual harassment and assault, and disability in archaeology. She received her bachelor’s from Radford University in Virginia, her master’s from the University of Georgia, and a Ph. D from the University of Kentucky. Meyers has over two dozen publications, many focused on her work on Mississippian period Native American mound sites in southwestern Virginia and north Georgia. She is the past president of the Southeastern Archaeological Conference, where she created partnerships with public outreach groups, scholarships for tribal and HBCU students, instituted organizational policy for addressing sexual harassment, and helped create and pass an image policy regarding Native American burial remains and associated objects.  

    Frank Williams is a full professor with tenure at Georgia State University, specializing in biological anthropology. He received his bachelor’s from the University of Florida and his master’s and Ph.D. from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst. Prior to coming to Georgia State University, he was a postdoctoral research assistant at Pennsylvania State University. Williams teaches courses in forensic anthropology, human paleontology, human osteology, statistical methods, and primate behavioral ecology. In 2020, he was the recipient of the University Faculty Award for Undergraduate Mentored Research in Policy, Entrepreneurship, Education, and Social Sciences. Williams has published extensively on reconstructing Neandertal diets using dental microwear, vertebral osteoarthritis, paleopathology, fossil primates, and dental morphology. He has received two U.S. Fulbright awards, a Fulbright Specialist Award to the University of Calgary, Canada (2014), and a Fulbright Core Scholars Award to the Royal Museum of Central Africa, Belgium (2016). He has previously served as director of undergraduate studies, department chair of anthropology, NAGRA coordinator, and faculty associate for tenure-track faculty development and review for the College of Arts and Sciences at Georgia State University.

     

    Georgia Real Estate Commission 

    Edward Lee Dollar was reappointed.

     

    Georgia Board of Dentistry 

    Glenn Maron was reappointed.

     

    Georgia Joint Defense Commission 

    Henry Childs, John L. Eunice, III, Peter Jones, and Al Konetzni were reappointed.

     

    Behavioral Health Reform and Innovation Commission 

    Kevin Tanner was reappointed as chairman.

    Karen Bailey, Jason Downey, Nora Haynes, Miriam Shook, Sarah Vinson, DeJuan White, and Michael Yochelson were reappointed.

    Melanie Dallas is the CEO of Highland Rivers Behavioral Health and a licensed professional counselor with 35 years of experience in behavioral health. Throughout her career she has held roles in crisis stabilization, mobile crisis assessment, and in-home care, working with children, families, and adults in both the public and private sectors. Dallas specializes in trauma and attachment issues. In 2019, she served on the Appalachian Regional Commission Substance Abuse Advisory Council and is currently the chair of the Policy Committee for the Georgia Association of Community Service Boards. Dallas holds a bachelor’s in marketing from the University of Kentucky and a master’s in counseling from Georgia State University. She has worked as a military family life consultant with the Department of Defense and helped develop a network of clinicians for the Georgia Army National Guard and Georgia State Defense Force. She has contributed to Georgia co-response programs, is trained in Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM), and leads a CISM team within her agency.

     

    Georgia Film, Music, and Digital Entertainment Advisory Council 

    Walker Dalton is the executive director of the Savannah Regional Film Commission. Previously, he served as the Savannah College of Art and Design’s director of content, where he led a team of creatives that produced art, fashion, and documentary films. Before moving to Savannah, he was a producer for 10 years on Jay Leno’s Garage and, for five years, served in NBC Universal’s digital marketing department. In 2017, Dalton earned an Emmy nomination for Jay Leno’s Garage. His leadership as the film commissioner for the region around Savannah, Georgia is reinforced by his 25 years of entertainment industry experience.

    Maria Guerra-Stoll is the president and CEO of PAM Studios and founder of GSB Architects + Interiors Inc. She began her career in film studio design working at Tyler Perry Studios in 2007 and has since overseen projects for major clients including Netflix and AT&T. Guerra-Stoll’s firm has extensive experience in designing entertainment facilities across the U.S. and internationally. She founded PAM Studios LLC, focused on fostering local talent and providing production facilities in Rome, Georgia. A native of Caracas, Venezuela, she graduated from the University of Tennessee at Knoxville with a Bachelor of Architecture. She has also completed two MBE programs at the Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth College. Guerra-Stoll serves as an executive board member of the Latin American Chamber of Commerce. She served as chairman of the Board of the Georgia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. Additionally, Guerra-Stoll is a former board member of the Georgia Latino Film Festival, the Georgia Chamber of Commerce, Habitat for Humanity, and the YWCA.

    Pamela Thompson has been the owner-operator of Dillard House Stables since 1989. Along with her crew of experienced trail guides, she strives to keep the horseback riding tradition alive. Thompson’s lifetime of experience with horses and 25 years in the “trail riding” business allows her the opportunity to offer a safe and enjoyable horseback ride for every level rider. Additionally, she serves as president of the Dillard Tourism Association and as a camera-ready liaison for Rabun County to the Georgia film industry.

    Scott Votaw is the Assistant Vice Chancellor of the Georgia Film Academy. With over 25 years of experience working for production companies including Saban, Fox, Lucasfilm Ltd., and others, Votaw has a deep knowledge base of film production, 2D/3D animation, special FX, motion capture, and post-production. With a decade of experience in education, he also holds expertise in current and trending production needs, training educational circular creation, and workforce development. As an international consultant with CSV-Consulting, Votaw worked for studio infrastructure providers, workforce development, and emerging technology companies within the film and entertainment production sectors in the Asia-Pacific region. Prior to this, Votaw supported efforts to grow the film and TV production industry in Georgia by maintaining a highly trained and industry-standard workforce by creating/advising some of the most successful educational programs globally.

     

    State Board of Registration of Used Motor Vehicle Dealers and Used Motor Vehicle Parts Dealers 

    Azfar Haque, Jimmy Lydon, and Tyler Wood were reappointed. 

     

    Division on Family and Children Services State Advisory Board  

    Pam Clayton is the vice president of Quality Advancement & Regulatory Affairs at the Georgia Health Care Association. In her role, Clayton supports members in regulatory compliance and quality improvement, building strong relationships with stakeholders at all levels. She previously held various leadership roles at Ethica Health and Retirement Communities, where she developed and implemented strategic initiatives in skilled nursing and ancillary services. She holds a Bachelor of Science in organizational management from Covenant College and an Associate of Science in nursing from Dalton College. An active member of several professional organizations, Clayton serves on the American Health Care Association’s Quality Cabinet and co-chairs the AHCA/NCAL Quality Committee.

    Belinda Davis is the senior field operations manager of the southeast area at the Georgia Department of Corrections (GDC). Davis began her career with the GDC in 1991 as an accounting technician at Burruss Correctional Training Center (CTC). In 1997, Davis was promoted to business manager of Burruss CTC, and, later that year, she was promoted to deputy warden of administration at Metro State Prison. In 2003, Davis transferred to Georgia Diagnostic & Classification Prison to serve as the deputy warden of administration. In 2005, Davis was promoted to superintendent at McEver Probation Detention Center. In 2008, she was promoted to warden of Dooly State Prison. Before its closure, Davis was the warden of Metro State Prison and subsequently became the warden of Pulaski State Prison. Davis earned her Bachelor of Business Administration from Mercer University and a Master of Public Administration degree from Columbus State University. She has completed basic correctional officer training, basic management training, Corrections Leadership Institute, Warden’s Pre-Command, and Georgia Law Enforcement Command College. Davis is the chair of the Butts County DFACS Board.

    Lesli Reece is a seasoned professional with over 30 years of experience. While she is retired now, she serves as the director of Fostering Together, a part of North Point Ministries that she has been involved in since 2011. She has also owned L & R Real Estate Services since 2009. Prior to her current endeavors, Reece spent 11 years at the Coca-Cola Company where she served in various roles, including corporate business development and director of US & Global Staffing. Based in Alpharetta, she is passionate about making a positive impact in her community and leveraging her extensive background in business and leadership to help people.

     

    Georgie Behavior Analyst Licensing Board 

    Brandy Locchetta is an Assistant Professor and Applied Behavior Analysis Program Coordinator at the University of West Georgia. She holds a Ph.D. in Early Childhood Education and Applied Behavior Analysis from Vanderbilt University, a master’s in early childhood special education from Vanderbilt University, and a bachelor’s in early childhood education from Georgia State University. Locchetta’s recent roles include serving as an editorial board member on topics in early childhood special education. Previously, she was adjunct faculty at York College of Pennsylvania and held leadership positions at the Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning. She has received notable awards such as the Leading the Pack Focused on the Future Award from the University of West Georgia and the Shores Award for Excellence in Teacher Education from Vanderbilt University.

     

    Georgia Board of Health Care Workforce

    Steven Gautney was reappointed.

     

    Georgia Composite Board of Professional Counselors, Social Workers, and Marriage and Family Therapists

    Brent Herrin and Bridget Knowles were reappointed.

     

    Georgia Commission on Civics Education

    Wes Cantrell, Kurt Doehrman, Judy Teasley, and Randy Trammell were reappointed

     

    MIL OSI USA News –

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

    Source: Government of Canada News

    Under the auspice of the Northern Defence Dialogue meeting held on the margins of the NATO Defence Ministers’ Meeting on 17 October 2024…

    October 17, 2024 – Brussels, Belgium – National Defence / Canadian Armed Forces

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

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

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

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

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

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

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Governments of Canada, Newfoundland and Labrador to announce support for culinary tourism industry

    Source: Government of Canada News

    Media advisory

    St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador · October 17, 2024 · Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA)

    The Honourable Gudie Hutchings, Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for ACOA, will make an announcement regarding the culinary tourism industry in Newfoundland and Labrador. The Honourable Sarah Stoodley, Minister of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills and Minister responsible for Francophone Affairs, will also make an announcement on behalf of the Province of Newfoundland and Labrador.

    Date: October 18, 2024

    Time:  12:00 p.m. (NDT)                        

    Location:
    O’Brien Farm
    150 Oxen Pond Road
    St. John’s, NL

    Contacts

    Connor Burton

    Press Secretary

    Office of the Minister of Rural Economic Development and minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency

    Connor.Burton@acoa-apeca.gc.ca

    Paul McGrath

    Director of Communications

    Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency

    709-689-5731

    Paul.McGrath@acoa-apeca.gc.ca

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: The Government of Canada supports the renovation of Le Pantoum

    Source: Government of Canada News

    News release

    QUÉBEC CITY, October 17, 2024

    Investing in cultural and creative spaces helps enrich our communities by providing them with spaces that bring people together and are accessible to everyone.

    Today, the Honourable Jean-Yves Duclos, Minister of Public Services and Procurement, Quebec Lieutenant and Member of Parliament (Québec), announced $962,105 in financial support for Création Le Pantoum. Minister Duclos made the announcement on behalf of the Honourable Pascale St-Onge, Minister of Canadian Heritage, the Honourable Soraya Martinez Ferrada, Minister of Tourism and Minister responsible for the Economic Development Agency of Canada for the Regions of Quebec, and the Honourable Kamal Khera, Minister of Diversity, Inclusion and Persons with Disabilities.

    Canadian Heritage provided $604,960 through the Canada Cultural Spaces Fund. Part of that funding was used to acquire the building. Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions (CED) provided a non-repayable contribution of $285,000 under the Canada Community Revitalization Fund. Finally, Employment and Social Development Canada provided $72,145 under the Small Projects Component of the Enabling Accessibility Fund. These contributions will allow Création Le Pantoum to welcome its audiences in accessible and safe spaces and improve the environment for emerging artists to create and share their work.

    Quotes

    “By supporting the development of the Canadian arts scene, our government is helping to enrich a space where creativity and talent meet. After major renovations, Création Le Pantoum now has redesigned spaces for artists and the public. Thanks to the team for showcasing local talent and promoting the next generation.”

    – The Honourable Pascale St-Onge, Minister of Canadian Heritage

    “Our government is committed to the vitality of our communities. Community organizations like Création Le Pantoum are driving initiatives that support their communities and contribute to cultural development both in Québec and across the country. Supported by CED through the Canadian Community Revitalization Fund, this project promotes social inclusion by improving accessibility in the organization’s facilities. Congratulations to everyone on this visionary project for the development of culture and diversity in Québec!”

    – The Honourable Soraya Martinez Ferrada, Minister of Tourism and Minister responsible for the Economic Development Agency of Canada for the Regions of Quebec

    “Music and the arts give people a sense of belonging and unity and have been bringing people together for generations. We are working to remove barriers, improve accessibility and inclusion and support Quebec artists by investing in organizations like Création Le Pantoum through programs such as the Enabling Accessibility Fund. By working together, one project at a time, we can make Canada a place that is truly accessible for everyone.”

    – The Honourable Kamal Khera, Minister of Diversity, Inclusion and Persons with Disabilities

    “We believe in supporting cultural spaces such as Le Pantoum, which is essential to the creation of music in the City of Québec. This investment will strengthen our support for emerging artists and cultural communities. Le Pantoum is managed by passionate artists and workers who will continue to innovate and showcase our city’s artistic heritage.”

    – The Honourable Jean-Yves Duclos, Minister of Public Services and Procurement, Quebec Lieutenant and Member of Parliament (Québec)

    “Over the past 12 years, Création le Pantoum has established itself as the main centre for producing and promoting emerging music in the City of Québec. With the federal government’s help, we can carry out our organization’s most ambitious project: guaranteeing its sustainability for years to come.”

    – Émilie Tremblay, Executive Director of Création Le Pantoum

    Quick facts

    • Founded in 2012, Le Pantoum is a music creation centre run by a community of cultural workers in Québec City. Le Pantoum’s mission is to strengthen the arts community and promote its work using alternative and innovative means.

    • The Canada Cultural Spaces Fund helps improve the physical conditions to support innovation in the arts, heritage and creative fields. The Fund supports renovation projects as well as the acquisition of specialized equipment and the planning, design and execution of feasibility studies for arts and heritage cultural spaces.

    • The Canadian Community Revitalization Fund was created by Canada’s regional development agencies in June 2021 to help communities across Canada carry out community infrastructure projects and improve existing infrastructure with the goal of reestablishing momentum after the COVID-19 pandemic.

    • The Enabling Accessibility Fund is a federal grants and contributions program. It supports infrastructure projects across Canada aimed at increasing accessibility, safety and inclusion for people with disabilities in communities and in the workplace. The fund has supported more than 7,700 projects since its inception, which has helped thousands of Canadians access programs, services and jobs in their communities.

    Associated links

    Contacts

    For more information (media only), please contact:

    Charles Thibault-Béland
    Press Secretary
    Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage
    charles.thibault-beland@pch.gc.ca

    Media Relations
    Canadian Heritage
    1-819-994-9101
    1-866-569-6155
    media@pch.gc.ca

    Waleed Saleem
    Press Secretary
    Office of the Minister of Diversity, Inclusion and Persons with Disabilities
    waleed.saleem@hrsdc-rhdcc.gc.ca

    Media Relations Office
    Employment and Social Development Canada
    (819) 994-5559
    media@hrsdc-rhdcc.gc.ca

    Marie-Justine Torres
    Press Secretary
    Office of the Minister of Sport and Minister responsible for the Economic Development Agency of Canada for the Regions of Quebec
    (613) 327-5918
    marie-justine.torresames@ised-isde.gc.ca

    Media Relations
    Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions
    media@dec-ced.gc.ca

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Waterville — Missing 54-year-old man

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    The Western Valley Region RCMP is asking for the public’s help locating a missing 54-year-old man from Millville, N.B.

    Andrew Irvine was last seen at approximately 4:30 p.m. on October 15, 2024, near 11300 Route 130, in Waterville. He was reported missing to police the same day. Police have followed up on several leads to try and locate him, but have so far been unsuccessful. Police and his family are concerned for his wellbeing.

    Andrew Irvine is described as being approximately five feet ten inches (178 centimetres) tall, and weighing approximately 270 pounds (122 kilograms). He has brown eyes, and brown hair. He was last seen wearing a camouflage jacket. A picture of him is not available at this time.

    Anyone with information on his whereabouts is asked to contact the Western Valley Region RCMP at 506-325-3000.

    MIL Security OSI –