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  • MIL-OSI Canada: Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada announces judicial appointments in the province of Quebec

    Source: Government of Canada News

    September 23, 2024 – Ottawa, Ontario – Department of Justice Canada  

    The Honourable Arif Virani, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, today announced the following appointments under the judicial application process established in 2016. This process emphasizes transparency, merit, and the diversity of the Canadian population, and will continue to ensure the appointment of jurists who meet the highest standards of excellence and integrity.

    Mathieu Piché-Messier, Partner and National Business Leader in Commercial Litigation at Borden Ladner Gervais LLP in Montréal, is appointed a Judge of the Superior Court of Quebec for the district of Montréal. Justice Piché-Messier replaces Justice P.H. Bélanger (Montréal), who resigned effective May 24, 2024.

    Lysane Cree, Administrative Judge at the Tribunal administratif de déontologie policière in Montréal, is appointed a Judge of the Superior Court of Quebec for the district of Montréal. Justice Cree replaces Justice M. Lachance (Montréal), who was elevated to the Court of Appeal effective June 17, 2024.

    Horia Bundaru, Partner at Norton Rose Fulbright Canada LLP in Montréal, is appointed a Judge of the Superior Court of Quebec for the district of Montréal. Justice Bundaru replaces Justice K. Kear-Jodoin (Montréal), who elected to become a supernumerary judge effective July 16, 2024.

    Quote

    “I wish Justices Piché-Messier, Cree, and Bundaru every success as they take on their new roles. I am confident they will serve Quebecers well as members of the Superior Court of Quebec.”

    —The Hon. Arif Virani, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada

    Biographies

    Justice Mathieu Piché-Messier was born and raised in Montreal. He obtained his Bachelor of Civil Law from the Faculty of Law of the Université de Sherbrooke in 1997. He was admitted to the Barreau du Québec in 1998.

    Since 2000, Justice Piché-Messier has practised commercial litigation at Borden Ladner Gervais, where, after being named partner in 2006, he headed the Montreal Commercial Litigation Group for seven years, before being appointed National Business Leader—Commercial Litigation. His practice focused on extraordinary remedies and commercial litigation in the fields of anti-fraud, high technology, industrial espionage, privacy and identity theft, international arbitration, aeronautics, defamation, as well as intellectual property. As a litigator, author, and lecturer, he was inducted as a Fellow of the American College of Trial Lawyers in 2018 and a Fellow of Litigation Counsels of America in 2021; he also received the Advocatus Emeritus (Ad. E.) distinction from the Barreau du Québec in 2022. He has been recognized by his peers for appearing in editions of Chambers, The Best Lawyers, and Benchmark Litigation as one of Canada’s top 50 litigators.

    Justice Piché-Messier was a member of the board of directors of the Barreau du Québec, the Montreal Bar, and the Canadian Bar Association—specifically the Quebec Branch. He was also President of the Centre d’accès à l’information juridique du Québec (CAIJ) and of the Young Bar Association of Montreal. Active in the Montreal community, he has been a member on the board of directors of Cirque Éloize, Les Ballets Jazz de Montréal, Enfants-retour, and Make-a-Wish.

    Justice Piché-Messier and his wife, Natacha Lavoie, are the proud parents of Vincent and Victoria.

    Justice Lysane Cree is from the Kanien’kéhaka (Mohawk) Nation and obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science with a minor in Northern Studies from McGill University in 1996, before obtaining a Bachelor of Civil Law and a Bachelor of Common Law from McGill University in 2000. She was admitted to the Barreau du Québec in 2003 and subsequently, to the New York State Bar in 2012 and the Law Society of Ontario in 2020.

    Justice Cree began her practice at Hutchins Legal Inc. and focused solely on indigenous law matters and working with First Nations governments in several provinces and occasionally in the State of New York for sixteen years. While still in private practice, she began working on a part-time basis in police ethics with the Comité de déontologie policière (now Tribunal), hearing cases involving indigenous police services in the province of Quebec. She then worked as a decision-maker at the Comité de discipline de la Chambre de la sécurité financière from 2019 to 2021 before becoming a full-time administrative judge at the Tribunal administratif de déontologie policière. During this time, she was involved with the Canadian Council of Administrative Tribunals, as a member of both the Tribunal Excellence Committee and the Truth & Reconciliation Committee.

    Justice Cree is an avid equestrian and enjoys spending time with her horses.

    Justice Horia Bundaru immigrated to Canada at the age of eleven with his parents and younger sister. He obtained a B.C.L./LL.B. from the Faculty of Law of McGill University in 2005, and he was admitted to the Barreau du Québec in 2006.

    Justice Bundaru has spent his entire career at Norton Rose Fulbright Canada LLP, where he became a partner in 2016 and where, at the time of his appointment, he headed the Litigation Group in Montreal. A renowned litigator, his practice focused on commercial litigation, construction law and energy law. Since 2016, he has taught civil procedure and drafting at the École du Barreau.

    Justice Bundaru has chaired the Quebec Branch of the Canadian Bar Association, the Liaison Committee of the Montreal Bar with the Superior Court of Quebec in the Civil Division, along with the Salon VISEZ DROIT. At the time of his appointment, he was President of the Liaison Committee with the Court of Appeal and a member of the Conseil de la magistrature du Québec. He is listed in the Canadian Legal Lexpert Directory, Benchmark Litigation Canada as a “Litigation Star,” Thomson Reuters Stand-out Lawyers, The Legal 500 Canada and Best Lawyers in Canada. In 2022, he was named a Fellow of the Canadian College of Construction Lawyers.

    Justice Bundaru is passionate about literature, and he is an avid cross-country skier and tennis player. He and his wife Maya—also a lawyer—have two daughters: Ariane and Éloïse.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada announces a judicial appointment to the Federal Court of Appeal

    Source: Government of Canada News

    September 23, 2024 – Ottawa, Ontario – Department of Justice Canada 

    The Honourable Arif Virani, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, today announced the following appointment under the judicial application process established in 2016. This process emphasizes transparency, merit, and the diversity of the Canadian population, and will continue to ensure the appointment of jurists who meet the highest standards of excellence and integrity.

    The Honourable Panagiotis Pamel, a Judge of the Federal Court, is appointed a Judge of the Federal Court of Appeal. Justice Pamel replaces Justice Y. de Montigny, who was appointed Chief Justice on November 8, 2023.

    Quote

    “I wish Justice Pamel every success as he takes on his new role. I am confident he will serve Canadians well as a member of the Federal Court of Appeal.”

    —The Hon. Arif Virani, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada

    Biography

    Justice Panagiotis Pamel was appointed to the Federal Court in 2019. After obtaining his Bachelor of Commerce (Finance) from Concordia University in 1983, he attended McGill University, graduating in 1987 with degrees in both civil and common law. He was admitted to the Quebec Bar in 1988.

    Prior to his appointment to the Federal Court, Justice Pamel practised at McMaster Meighen, a predecessor firm of Borden Ladner Gervais (BLG). Apart from a short stint in industry, he practised in the area of maritime law at BLG for over 30 years. He acted as counsel in several landmark decisions of the Federal Court, Federal Court of Appeal, and Supreme Court of Canada in the area of maritime law.

    Justice Pamel was a founding member of BLG`s Team North and past chair of the Arctic Issues Committee of the Canadian Maritime Law Association. He is a contributor to Canadian Maritime Law, 2nd edition, and has participated in numerous articles in the areas of maritime law and arctic navigation.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Salford City Mayor’s Charter for good employment standards celebrates its tenth year of partnership with local employers

    Source: City of Salford

    Salford City Council proudly celebrated its tenth year of progress in raising employment standards at the Salford City Mayor’s Charter Member Awards, held on Monday 16 September 2024.

    The event recognised the tremendous impact that local employers have made in supporting fair, inclusive, and responsible employment practices.

    Hosted at the Civic Centre, the event brought together local employers who have committed to driving positive change in the workplace. Since its launch, over 200 businesses have pledged their support to the Charter, and more than 70 employers are currently active Charter supporters. These employers have embraced core principles such as providing the Real Living Wage, improving diversity and inclusion and prioritising employee wellbeing.

    City Mayor Paul Dennett, who led the awards ceremony, praised the dedication of Salford’s businesses: “It’s incredible to see how much has been achieved over the past 10 years. The commitment of employers to the Charter has significantly improved working conditions for thousands of residents across Salford.”

    Councillor Pepper, Lead Member for Skills, Work and Business Support, said, “The tenth year of the Charter is a proud milestone for Salford. Over the past decade, we’ve seen a genuine shift towards fairer, more inclusive workplaces, and that’s down to the dedication of employers who have embraced these values. By supporting the Real Living Wage, diversity, and employee wellbeing, they are not only improving lives but also strengthening our local economy. As we look ahead, I’m confident that our continued collaboration will ensure even greater success for Salford and its residents.”

    During the event, founder members recommitted to the Charter, while new members were welcomed, including those who joined through a joint application process with the Greater Manchester Good Employment Charter. The Charter’s joint focus on social inclusion, economic growth, and employee wellbeing was highlighted as key to Salford’s future success.

    The event also featured discussions on the forward strategy for advancing employment standards in the city and Greater Manchester, with speakers emphasising the role of strong partnerships between businesses, training providers, and local authorities. Employers were also introduced to available business support services designed to help them achieve their Charter commitments and meet future goals.

    Get more information about the Salford City Mayor’s Employment Standards Charter and how to become a supporter, or contact salfordcitymayorcharter@salford.gov.uk. 

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    Date published
    Monday 23 September 2024

    Press and media enquiries

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NASA Expands Small Business, Industry Engagement Resources

    Source: NASA

    Two new resources are available for businesses that provide products and services to support NASA’s missions, from supersonic flight to lunar exploration, as well as companies that aim to engage the agency as a customer.
    While NASA practices transparency in its procurement processes to ensure access and participation by all businesses, we recognize that barriers to participation remain for smaller, less experienced companies. In addition, new federal-wide policy and guidance has increased focus on NASA’s small and minority business goals.
    “NASA’s dedication to fostering collaboration with small and disadvantaged businesses remains at the forefront of our mission,” said NASA Deputy Administrator Pam Melroy. “By implementing innovative practices and refining our procurement processes, we aim to not only drive forward our key mission objectives but also to stimulate industry-wide innovation and inclusivity. These efforts are vital as we seek to leverage the full spectrum of talent and creativity available, ensuring that all voices have a chance to contribute to our groundbreaking work in space exploration.” 
    To assess the agency’s best practices and biggest barriers, Deputy Administrator Melroy established a multi-disciplinary team that included the Offices of Procurement and Small Business Programs. One of the outcomes was the creation of a communication plan for the small and minority business enterprise alongside NASA’s annual vendor communication plan.
    “Inherent in NASA’s commitment to innovation and ingenuity, is the recognition that a diverse and broad supply chain is essential for mission success,” said Karla Smith Jackson, assistant administrator for NASA’s Office of Procurement. “The updated Vendor Communication and the new Small and Minority Business Enterprise Communication plans are the next logical step in NASA’s continuous effort to foster an inclusive acquisition environment. By broadening our communication and outreach, we are strengthening our industrial base and empowering businesses of all sizes to contribute to the future of space exploration.”
    In the NASA Small and Minority Business Enterprise Communication Plan, the agency outlines its goals for enhancing its outreach efforts and increasing spending with these businesses to reduce obstacles to participation in NASA’s missions and more intentionally engage companies throughout the procurement process.
    Engagement activities outlined in these plans support more robust communication with potential vendors. As an example, the NASA Acquisition Innovation Launchpad (NAIL) encourages one-on-one conversations with small and minority-owned businesses to improve participation, drive innovation, identify and remove barriers as well as collaboration to share best practices and methods across the agency. Further, by publishing annual forecasts we give industry insight as early as possible to promote maximum competition.
    “Our commitment to small and minority businesses is unwavering,” said Dwight Deneal, assistant administrator for NASA’s Office of Small Business Programs. “This communication plan is not just about outreach; it’s about building lasting partnerships that drive innovation and inclusion across NASA’s missions.”
    The Vendor Communication Plan goes into more depth on how NASA engages with all businesses before, during, and after contract awards are given, providing various examples of events and methods of communication the agency uses to remain in contact with award recipients. This includes holding webinars with award applicants and recipients, providing email support throughout the award process, and reviewing final performance and financial reports. NASA also provides information about how the agency promotes diversity throughout the contracting process, including a dedicated equity action plan and increased subcontracting opportunities.
    In the spirit of exploration, NASA is expanding its reach to new entrants and businesses that have not traditionally done business with the agency. NASA is committed to increasing its small business prime and subcontract awards, with an emphasis on innovative barrier reducing procurement practices and transparent contracting methods.  
    Learn more about how NASA is improving its acquisition process at:
    https://www.nasa.gov/procurement

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Washington launches FundHubWA to help people and organizations find climate and clean energy funding

    Source: Washington State News

    New portal offers easy-to-use way for people and organizations to apply for historic state and federal funding opportunities

    There’s more funding than ever for projects relating to energy efficiency, clean energy and climate resiliency. But for people and organizations to use it, they first need to know it exists. That’s the goal of the state’s new online funding portal called FundHubWA. FundHubWA connects everyone in Washington with federal and state grants, tax incentives and rebates that advance clean air, clean energy, and clean technology.

    The new website, located at FundHub.WA.gov, features an easy-to-use database for local governments, individuals, businesses, nonprofits, tribal governments and public agencies.

    The hub tracks once-in-a-generation federal investments from the Inflation Reduction Act, CHIPS for America, and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, as well as Washington’s Climate Commitment Act, which is funding climate-resiliency programs, clean transportation, consumer rebates and incentives, clean air programs, and more.

    “These historic investments are supercharging Washington’s efforts to fight climate change by making it more affordable for people and organizations to switch away from fossil fuels and confront the damage caused by climate pollution,” Gov. Jay Inslee said. “We don’t want anyone to miss out on an opportunity simply because they don’t know about it. This portal offers everyone an easy way to browse for funding that could help them improve their home, business or community.”

    FundHubWA’s database covers a range of opportunities including electric vehicle rebates for lower income households, clean energy incentives for businesses, and planning and infrastructure grants for cities, counties and tribal governments.

    “With the launch of FundHubWA, there has never been a better time to contribute to a cleaner, healthier and more prosperous Washington,” said Washington State Department of Commerce Director Mike Fong. “We know that everyone who lives in our state wants to do everything they can to improve their lives and improve their communities. Our goal is to help them find and secure the funding to do that.”

    FundHubWA was approved by the Washington State Legislature in 2024 and is administered by the Washington State Department of Commerce. FundHubWA is supported with funding from Washington’s Climate Commitment Act. The CCA supports Washington’s climate action efforts by putting cap-and-invest dollars to work reducing climate pollution, creating jobs, and improving public health. Information about the CCA is available at www.climate.wa.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Valley National Bank Resolves Civil Liability Relating To Self-Disclosure Of Its Role In The Impermissible Use Of PPP Loan Proceeds By Bank Customer

    Source: United States Department of Justice (National Center for Disaster Fraud)

    Tampa, FL – Valley National Bank (VNB), a national bank and member of the Federal Reserve System, has agreed to pay $216,784.50 to resolve its civil liability under the False Claims Act for its self-disclosed role in the administration of two loans to a bank customer made under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act (CARES), the Payroll Protection Program (PPP) and Economic Aid to Hard-Hit Small Businesses, Nonprofits and Venues Act (Economic Aid Act).

    Congress created the PPP in March 2020 as part of the CARES Act to provide emergency loans to small businesses suffering economic hardship due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The CARES Act authorized these businesses to seek forgiveness of the loans if they spent the loan funds on eligible expenses. The PPP was administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA).

    This settlement resolves VNB’s civil liability related to a bank customer who had applied for two PPP loans with VNB. VNB, through a bank relationship manager, assisted the customer in the impermissible use of a portion of the PPP loan proceeds from its first PPP loan to repay an outstanding loan to a third party. After learning of this conduct, VNB conducted an independent investigation and review of those issues and provided the United States with a detailed and thorough written self-disclosure. VNB cooperated fully with the government’s investigation of the conduct, disclosing relevant documents, facts, and information gathered during its investigation. Although PPP lending has ended, VNB took steps to remediate and improve the issues with its PPP lending policies and practices, including requiring PPP borrowers to open a deposit account to undergo depositor screening, retaining an accounting firm to serve as a PPP loan help desk, and utilizing a company to interface with the SBA E-Tran platform.

    “The United States Attorney’s Office is committed to investigating and holding responsible those who failed to follow the rules of the PPP program,” said U.S. Attorney Roger B. Handberg for the Middle District of Florida. “We will continue to seek civil redress and, where appropriate, federally prosecute those individuals and entities that engage in improper uses of PPP loan proceeds.”

    SBA’s General Counsel Therese Meers stated, “The favorable settlement in this case is the product of enhanced efforts by federal agencies such as the Small Business Administration working with the U.S. Attorney’s Office, other federal law enforcement agencies, as well as financial institutions or private individuals who uncover borrower misconduct to recover the lending program’s damages.”

    The resolution obtained in this case was the result of a coordinated effort by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida and the Small Business Administration. The matter was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kelley Howard-Allen, with assistance from the Small Business Administration – Office of General Counsel. 

    The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only and there has been no determination or admission of liability by VNB.

    On May 17, 2021, the Attorney General established the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force to marshal the resources of the Department of Justice in partnership with agencies across government to enhance efforts to combat and prevent pandemic-related fraud. The task force bolsters efforts to investigate and prosecute the most culpable domestic and international criminal actors and assists agencies tasked with administering relief programs to prevent fraud by, among other methods, augmenting and incorporating existing coordination mechanisms, identifying resources and techniques to uncover fraudulent actors and their schemes, and sharing and harnessing information and insights gained from prior enforcement efforts. For more information on the department’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus.

    Tips and complaints from all sources about potential fraud affecting COVID-19 government relief programs can be reported by visiting the webpage of the Civil Division’s Fraud Section, which can be found here. Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can also report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: QUADIENT: H1 2024 results: Solid 3.2% reported revenue growth and sharp improvement in profitability from Digital

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    H1 2024 results: Solid 3.2% reported revenue growth
    and sharp improvement in profitability from Digital

    Key highlights

    • H1 2024 consolidated sales of €534 million, up +3.2% on a reported basis including the contribution of the latest acquisitions (Daylight and Frama) and up +0.8% organically(1)
    • H1 2024 subscription-related revenue up +0.7% on an organic basis, representing 72% of total revenue
    • Strong performance from North America at +2.8% organic growth in H1 2024, representing 58% of Group Sales
    • H1 2024 EBITDA of €111 million, up 2.6% organically, primarily driven by a strong increase in profitability in Digital
    • H1 2024 Group current EBIT of €61 million, up 0.3% organically
    • Net attributable income of €24 million
    • Leverage ratio excluding leasing reduced to 1.6x2
    • FY 2024 outlook confirmed
    • Launch of share buyback program for up to €30 million

    Paris, 23 September 2024

    Quadient S.A. (Euronext Paris: QDT), a global automation platform powering secure and sustainable business connections, , today announces its 2024 second-quarter consolidated sales and first half results (period ended on 31 July 2024). The first-half 2024 results were approved by the Board of Directors during a meeting held on 20 September 2024.

    Geoffrey Godet, Chief Executive Officer of Quadient S.A., stated:

    “Quadient achieved a solid performance in the first half of 2024, setting a good start to the execution of our new strategic plan, ‘Elevate to 2030’, which aims at delivery €1 billion of subscription-related revenue by 2030. The various modules of our SaaS communication and financial automation platform are further recognized for their technical specificities as well as for their ease of use, reflecting our strong customer centric approach. Our highly recurring business model continues to be fueled by good results in both cross-selling and up-selling our solutions, by the strong outperformance of our Mail business as well as by a solid volume increase within our European parcel lockers open networks.

    In parallel, the profitability of our Digital business has sharply increased. Indeed, our Digital EBITDA margin gained 6 points compared to the first half of 2023, demonstrating our commitment to strengthen our investment proposition. Confident in our value-creation potential and in our capacity to achieve our short- and long-term guidance, including our 2026 leverage target, we are announcing today a share buy-back program aimed at improving the return to our shareholders. More than ever, our objective is to accelerate our existing growth trajectory and propel Quadient as the leader in intelligent automation.”

    Comments on H1 2024 performance

    Group sales came in at €534 million in H1 2024, a 3.2% increase on a reported basis, and 0.8% organic growth compared to H1 2023 in line with Quadient’s expectations. The reported growth includes a positive currency impact of €1 million and a positive scope effect of €12 million, which is related to the acquisition of Daylight in September 2023 and to the acquisition of Frama in February 2024. In Q2 2024, organic revenue growth reached 0.6% compared to Q2 2023.

    Consolidated sales and EBITDA by solution

    H1 2024 consolidated sales

    In € million H1 2024 H1 2023
    restated(a)    		 Change Organic change
    Digital 130 120 +8.3% +5.9%
    Mail 362 353 +2.5% (0.5)%
    Lockers 43 45 (4.7)% (2.5)%
    Group total 534 517 +3.2% +0.8%
    (a)  The full-year 2023 financial statements published in March 2024 reflected Quadient’s decision to review the future of its Mail activity in Italy with a view to divest this subsidiary within the next 12 months.
    As this was the case in the full-year 2023 statements, H1 2023 revenue from the aforementioned subsidiary is not represented in the consolidated revenue of the Group as it is recorded as discontinued operations. This is still the case in H1 2024.

    EBITDA and EBITDA margin

      H1 2024 H1 2023 restated (a)
    In € million EBITDA EBITDA margin EBITDA EBITDA margin
    Digital 20 15.7% 11 9.3%
    Mail 94 25.8% 102 29.0%
    Lockers (3) (6.7)% (1) (3.0)%
    Group total 111 20.8% 112 21.7%
    (a)  The full-year 2023 financial statements published in March 2024 reflected Quadient’s decision to review the future of its Mail activity in Italy with a view to divest this subsidiary within the next 12 months.
    As this was the case in the full-year 2023 statements, H1 2023 EBITDA from the aforementioned subsidiary is not represented in the consolidated EBITDA of the Group as it is recorded as discontinued operations. This is still the case in H1 2024.

    Digital

    In H1 2024, revenue from Digital reached €130 million, up 5.9% organically (+5.8% in Q2 2024 vs. Q2 2023) and up 8.3% on a reported basis (including the contribution from Daylight) compared to H1 2023. Importantly, growth for the Solution was still impacted by the delay in the implementation of two large contracts, announced in Q3 2023.

    At the end of H1 2024, annual recurring revenue (ARR), which is a forward-looking indicator of future subscription-related revenue, reached €221 million, up from €206 million at the end of FY 2023, representing a 15.3% organic(3)growth on an annualized basis.

    In H1 2024, subscription-related revenue recorded a strong 8.7% organic growth, now representing 82% of Digital total sales, a further increase compared to 80% in H1 2023. The share of SaaS customers stands at 83% at the end of H1 2024.

    EBITDA for Digital was €20 million for the period, representing a 15.7% EBITDA margin, up 6.4 points compared to H1 2023. Strong improvement in profitability continues, supported by the combination of subscription-related revenue growth, and platform size benefits, despite further commercial and innovation investments. The profitability is expected to continue improving in FY 2024.

    As part of the customer acquisition focus, Digital continues to experience strong commercial dynamics, supported by solid cross-selling with Mail including some large deals (notably one deal above USD1 million) in North America. Digital is benefiting from a positive start to Q3 2024 thanks to a new large deal with a US insurance company worth more than USD7 million over 5 years. Regarding the upcoming e-invoicing regulation in Europe, Quadient is now officially registered as a Partner Dematerialization Platform in France.

    As part of the customer expansion process, the onboarding of all eligible customers on the Quadient Hub is now completed. Focus continues on further increasing up-selling. New partnerships, notably with Microsoft business central, Sage200 (ERP solutions) and Stripe (payment solution), have also been signed. Lastly, the churn rate in Digital continues to decline, now standing well below 5%.

    Mail

    Mail revenue reached €362 million in H1 2024, down only 0.5% on an organic basis (-0.8% in Q2 2024 vs. Q2 2023). The reported growth stood at +2.5%, including the contribution of Frama.

    Hardware sales recorded a 4.8% organic growth in H1 2024, with strong contributions from North America, including a positive impact from decertification. The focus on investing into renewing the products offering continues to support product placements, as seen in the further increase in the share of the upgraded installed base, reaching 36.6% at the end of H1 2024 vs. 31.5% at the end of FY 2023.

    Subscription-related revenue (68% of Mail sales) recorded a limited 2.8% organic decline in H1 2024.

    EBITDA for Mail was €94 million for H1 2024. EBITDA margin reached 25.8%, down 3.2 points compared to H1 2023. The level of EBITDA margin of Mail was impacted by the higher proportion of revenue from equipment sales as well as by the dilution due to Frama acquisition, which performance is expected to improve significantly from 2025.

    Thanks to its strong customer acquisition focus, Quadient’s Mail business continues to outperform the market. The commercial performance is expected to be resilient in Q3 2024. On the acquisition side, the aim is to upgrade the installed base.

    As part of the customer expansion focus, the cross-selling remains solid, especially in the US, with several large contracts signed. Lastly, Mail benefited from the positive impact of the ongoing US mailing systems decertification.

    Lockers

    Lockers revenue reached €43 million in H1 2024, a 2.5% decrease on an organic basis (-1.8% in Q2 2024 vs Q2 2023) and a 4.7% decrease on a reported basis compared to H1 2023.

    Subscription-related revenue was up 5.3% organically in H1 2024, benefiting from the solid volumes ramp up within the UK and the French open networks, as well as the contribution of the existing installed base, supported by the higher number of carriers committed to use Quadient’s open networks. However, change in commercial agreements with Yamato in Japan in Q3 2023 leading to a greater focus on usage as opposed to a rental-based model, continues for now to weigh on the subscription-related revenue. Overall, subscription-related revenue stood at 65% of total revenue in H1 2024, up from 61% in H1 2023.

    Non-recurring revenue (license & hardware sales and professional services) were down 15.1% organically in H1 2024. Hardware sales were still impacted by slower new installations in North America.

    Quadient’s global locker installed base reached c.21,400 units at the end of H1 2024 vs. c.20,200 units at the end of FY 2023. This is reflecting an acceleration in the pace of installation of new lockers, notably in the UK, fueled by the partnerships signed by Quadient to host parcel lockers in new suitable locations.

    EBITDA for Lockers was negative at €(3) million in H1 2024. EBITDA margin stood at (6.7)%, down by 3.7 points. The decrease in EBITDA margin was mainly due to the negative impact from the change in commercial agreement with Yamato for the Japanese installed base at the start of H2 2023.

    As part of the customer acquisition focus, Quadient is accelerating the installation pace for lockers in the open networks in Europe, mostly in France and in the UK. This is supported by the additional deals signed for premium locations and conversion of existing lockers. Conversely, the trend remains slow in North America.

    As part of the customer expansion focus, volume increased strongly from both pick-up and drop-off in the open networks. The lockers business is also fueled by innovation in usage offerings, notably with new partnership with KeyNest in the United Kingdom, bringing additional volumes into the open network.

    REVIEW OF 2024 FIRST HALF-YEAR RESULTS

    Simplified P&L

    In € million H1 2024 H1 2023 restated (a) Change
    Sales 534 517 +3.2%
    Gross profit 399 387 +3.2%
    Gross margin 74.4% 74.8%  
    EBITDA 111 112 (1.1)%
    EBITDA margin 20.8% 21.7%  
    Current EBIT 61 65 (6.0)%
    Current EBIT margin 11.5% 12.6%  
    Optimization expenses and other operating income & expenses (16) (6) n/a
    EBIT 45 59 (24.4)%
    Financial income/(expense) (21) (16) +32.3%
    Income before tax 24 43 (45.4)%
    Income taxes 2 (6) n/a
    Net income of continued operations 26 37 (31.0)%
    Net income from discontinued operations (1) (0) n/a
    Net attributable income 24 36 (32.8)%
    Earnings per share 0.71 1.05 n/a
    Diluted earnings per share 0.71 1.05 n/a
    (a)  The full-year 2023 financial statements published in March 2024 reflected Quadient’s decision to review the future of its Mail activity in Italy with a view to divest this subsidiary within the next 12 months.
    As this was the case in the full-year 2023 statements, H1 2023 contribution from the aforementioned subsidiary is not represented in the consolidated P&L of the Group as it is recorded as discontinued operations. This is still the case in H1 2024.

    Gross margin stood at 74.4% in H1 2024 from 74.8% in H1 2023, due to slightly higher cost of sales and the impact of Frama integration.

    EBITDA(4) for the Group reached €111 million in H1 2024, almost flat compared to H1 2023. Organically, the EBITDA grew by 2.6%, thanks to a solid increase at Digital offsetting a weaker EBITDA performance in Mail. EBITDA margin stood at 20.8% in H1 2024, vs 21.7% in H1 2023.

    Depreciation and amortization stood at €50 million in H1 2024, compared to €47 million in H1 2023. This is mainly due to slightly higher amortization of Lockers’ capex for rent.

    Current operating income (current EBIT) reached €61 million in H1 2024 compared to €65 million in H1 2023, down 6.0% on a reported basis and up 0.3% on an organic basis. Current operating margin stood at 11.5% of sales in H1 2024 compared to 12.6% in H1 2023.

    Optimization costs and other operating expenses stood at €16 million in H1 2024, versus €6 million in H1 2023 which was impacted by the write-off of an IT project and additional office optimization in the United States and the United Kingdom.

    Consequently, EBIT reached €45 million in H1 2024, versus €59 million recorded in H1 2023.

    Net attributable income

    Net cost of debt was up year-on-year at €20 million, against €15 million in H1 2023, impacted by higher interest rates on the variable portion of the debt (one third of Quadient’s debt). The currency gains & losses and other financial items was a loss of €(1) million in H1 2024, stable vs. H1 2023. Overall, net financial result was a loss of €21 million in H1 2024 compared to a loss of €16 million in H1 2023.

    Income tax reached a €2 million profit in H1 2024, benefitting from the positive impact of internal IP transfers. It compares to an expense of €6 million in H1 2023.

    Net income from discontinued operations of the Mail Italian subsidiary amounts to €(1) million, including additional fees related to the ongoing sale process for this subsidiary.

    Net attributable income after minority interest amounted to €24 million in H1 2024 compared to €36 million in H1 2023.

    Earnings per share from continued operations came in at €0.74 in H1 2024 compared to €1.06 in H1 2023. The fully diluted earnings per share(5) was €1.05 in H1 2023.

    Earnings per share stood at €0.71 in H1 2024 compared to €1.05 in H1 2023. The fully diluted earnings per share(5) was €0.71 in H1 2024 compared to €1.05 in H1 2023. The impact of dilutive instruments is accretive, dilutive earnings per share is therefore brought into line with net earnings per share.

    Cash flow generation

    The change in working capital was a net cash outflow by €19 million in H1 2024 compared to a net cash outflow of €55 million in H1 2023, mostly reflecting a better level of cash collection and the one-off positive impact from timing differences in VAT payments.

    The leasing portfolio and other financing services stood at €591 million as of 31 July 2024, compared to €598 million as of 31 January 2024 (only down by (1.0)% on an organic basis), thanks to the solid performance of the Mail activity. While generating future subscription-related revenue, the expected increase in lease receivables resulting from the good performance in the placement of new equipment will translate into a cash outflow in H2 2024. At the end of H1 2024, the default rate of the leasing portfolio stood at around 1.2% compared to c.1.3% at the end of FY 2023.

    Interest and taxes paid increased slightly to €38 million in H1 2024 versus the amount of €35 million paid in H1 2023. The difference was mostly explained by higher interest rates in H1 2024.

    Capital expenditure reached €46 million in H1 2024, stable compared to H1 2023 reflecting an increase in capex for rent offset by the non-renewal of office leases (lower IFRS 16 capex). Capex for Digital reached €12 million in H12024, slightly up compared to €11 million in H1 2023 and was mainly focused on R&D. Capex for Mail decreased from €25 million to €22 million, due to lower IFRS 16 capex linked to less office leases renewal. Capex for Lockers increased from €10 million to €13 million to support the open network deployment in the UK and France.

    All in all, cash flow after capital expenditure was up from a negative amount of €15 million in H1 2023 to a positive amount of €3 million in H1 2024.

    Leverage and liquidity position

    Net debt stood at €726 million as of 31 July 2024, a slight increase against the €709 million of net financial debt recorded as of 31 January 2024. In June 2024, the Group extended by an additional year the maturity of its Revolving Credit Facility to 2029. In July 2024, Quadient proceeded to a partial bond buy-back for a total amount of €7 million, leaving the outstanding amount of the 2.25% bond at €260 million.

    The Group is well positioned to refinance its 2.25% bond, maturing early 2025.

    The leverage ratio (net debt/EBITDA) remained broadly stable from 3.0x(2) as of 31 July 2024 compared to 2.9x(2) as of 31 January 2024. Excluding leasing, Quadient leverage ratio improved from 1.65x(2) as of 31 January 2024 to 1.6x(2) as of 31 July 2024.

    As of 31 July 2024, the Group had a robust liquidity position of €494 million, split between €194 million in cash and a €300 million undrawn credit line, maturing in 2029.

    Shareholders’ equity stood at €1,064 million as of 31 January 2024 compared to €1,069 million as of 31 January 2024. The gearing ratio(6) stood at 68,2% as of 31 July 2024.

    MAIL ITALIAN SUBSIDIARY

    Following the reclassification of the Mail Italian Subsidiary as discontinued operations under IFRS 5 in full-year 2023, an agreement for its sale has been signed with a local mail distribution company in July 2024.

    CAPITAL ALLOCATION

    In line with Quadient’s capital allocation policy, the Company announces the launch of a share buyback program for a total consideration of up to €30 million to be executed on the market over an18-month(7) period.

    This operation aims at improving shareholders’ return. It also demonstrates Quadient’s confidence in the value creation potential of its new Elevate to 2030 strategic plan, its ability to reach its FY 2026 leverage ratio target(8) and is in line with the capital allocation policy of the Company. A press release detailing this share buyback program has been published alongside today’s H1 2024 results.

    OUTLOOK

    With H1 2024 organic growth in line with expectations, Quadient confirms its FY 2024 financial guidance of organic growth both at the revenue and current EBIT levels. H2 2024 will benefit from an easier comparison basis for both Digital and Lockers as there will no longer be any negative impact neither from the delay in implementation of the two large SaaS contracts, nor from the change in commercial agreement with Yamato, which took place at the beginning of H2 2023.

    Q2 2024 BUSINESS HIGHLIGHTS

    Approval of all resolutions by the combined Shareholders’ meeting of 14 June 2024
    On 17 June 2024, Quadient announced that its combined Annual General Meeting was held on 14 June 2024, under the chairmanship of Mr. Didier Lamouche. All submitted resolutions were ratified, with an attendance rate of 74.19% (quorum for ordinary and extraordinary resolutions).

    The Annual General Meeting approved the renewal of the three-year terms of directorship of Hélène Boulet-Supau, Geoffrey Godet, Richard Troksa. Vincent Mercier’s directorship was renewed for an 18-month term, until 31 December 2025. The Annual General Meeting also approved the co-option and approved the renewal for a three-year term of Bpifrance Investissement, represented by Emmanuel Blot.

    Quadient expands its Open Locker Network in new high traffic locations in Japan, leveraging existing JR East Smart Logistics Lockers
    On 21 June 2024, Quadient announced a significant expansion of its open locker network in Japan through a strategic partnership with JR East Smart Logistics Co., Ltd., the logistics arm of the major Japanese rail company. This collaboration integrates Quadient’s advanced parcel delivery and pickup functionalities into JR East’s existing multifunctional locker system, Multi E-Cube, across Japan’s extensive railway network. This marks the first time Quadient is expanding its intelligent locker capacities to third-party networks, highlighting its agility in deploying an open and interoperable logistics ecosystem with new approaches.

    Quadient reports cross-selling success in North America, reinforcing strategic vision
    On 2 July 2024, Quadient announced that nearly 50% of the large deals signed in North America with mail automation customers in May included digital automation platform applications, confirming the critical role its software solutions play in influencing customer decisions. Additionally, two-thirds of these cross-sell deals, secured by Quadient’s mail teams, featured both mail and digital automation solutions, reaching an over 60% integration rate.

    Quadient launches new cloud-based application to empower small businesses in their Mail management processes
    On 4 July 2024, Quadient announced the launch of Secure Barcode, a cloud-based application designed to enhance the security of customer physical communications through seamless barcode generation and insertion into documents. This innovative solution is tailored for small businesses that are beginning their journey into digital mail solutions, providing immediate benefits in document management and operational efficiency.

    Quadient and Punch Pubs Partner to enhance parcel locker access for UK communities
    On 11 July 2024, Quadient announced a new contract with Punch Pubs, a leading pub company in the UK. This partnership will see the deployment of Quadient’s Parcel Pending open locker network across 1,261 pub locations managed by Punch Pubs, enhancing the accessibility and convenience of parcel deliveries and returns for communities nationwide. This collaboration supports sustainable growth strategies, leveraging Punch Pubs’ nationwide commercial properties to deliver value to local populations. 

    More than 1.5 million higher education Students in the U.S. now rely on Quadient smart lockers for package delivery
    On 25 July 2024, Quadient announced it has reached a new milestone of installed smart lockers totaling more than 250 colleges and universities across the United States. Across the campuses, more than 1.5 million students per year are served by the automated lockers.

    POST-CLOSING EVENTS

    Quadient recognized as a major player for first time in IDC MarketScape for worldwide accounts payable automation software for midmarket and small businesses
    On 14 August 2024, Quadient announced it has been named a Major Player for the first time in two IDC MarketScape reports – IDC MarketScape: Worldwide Accounts Payable Automation Software for Midmarket 2024 Vendor Assessment (doc # US52378624, July 2024) and IDC MarketScape: Worldwide Accounts Payable Automation Software for Small Businesses 2024 Vendor Assessment (doc # US52378824, July 2024).

    Quadient secures major contract in North America, demonstrating strength in integrating Digital communications and Mail automation solutions
    On 28 August 2024, Quadient announced a new contract with a North American global leader in financial services, worth approximately €1.4 million per year over an initial period of three years. This successful deal underscores Quadient’s capability to meet the complex communication needs of large organizations through its extensive portfolio of digital and mail automation platforms, combined with high-level consulting and professional services.

    Quadient unveils new mobile app, enabling any local business to offer parcel locker delivery services to customers
    On 4 September 2024, Quadient announced the launch of a mobile app that enables local businesses to deliver customer orders directly to Quadient open network lockers without the need for specific software integrations. The app is already available in the Japanese market under the name PUDO ACCESS and will soon be made available in other countries, continuing to create value for merchants and their local communities.

    E-invoicing mandate for businesses in France: Quadient officially registered as a Dematerialization Platform Partner
    On 12 September 2024, Quadient announced its official registration as a Partner Dematerialization Platform (PDP) under number 0060. This registration, issued on 12 September 2024 by the PDP Registration Service of the Public Finance Department, acknowledges that Quadient meets all the requirements of the new Finance Law and is authorized to participate in the next phase of interoperability tests with the tax authorities’ platform when it becomes available.

    Quadient Named a Leader in 2024 SPARK Matrix for Accounts Payable Automation
    On 19 September 2024, Quadient announced it has been recognized as a Technology Leader in the “SPARK Matrix: Accounts Payable Automation” report, a detailed analysis of the accounts payable (AP) automation market by independent analyst firm QKS Group. The recognition comes on the heels of Quadient also being named a Technology Leader in the “2024 SPARK Matrix: Accounts Receivable (AR) Applications” report, which was published in May. This marks the second year in a row that Quadient has been named a leader in both AP and AR in the SPARK Matrix reports.

    To know more about Quadient’s news flow, previous press releases are available on our website at the following address: https://invest.quadient.com/en/newsroom.

    CONFERENCE CALL & WEBCAST

    Quadient will host a conference call and webcast today at 6:00 pm Paris time (5:00 pm London time).

    To join the webcast, click on the following link: Webcast.

    To join the conference call, please use one of the following phone numbers:

    ▪ France: +33 (0) 1 70 37 71 66.

    ▪ United States: +1 786 697 3501.

    ▪ United Kingdom (standard international): +44 (0) 33 0551 0200.

    Password: Quadient

    A replay of the webcast will also be available on Quadient’s Investor Relations website for 12 months.

    Calendar

    • 27 November 2024: Third quarter 2024 sales release (after close of trading on the Euronext Paris regulated market).

    About Quadient®

    Quadient is a global automation platform provider powering secure and sustainable business connections through digital and physical channels. Quadient supports businesses of all sizes in their digital transformation and growth journey, unlocking operational efficiency and creating meaningful customer experiences. Listed in compartment B of Euronext Paris (QDT) and part of the CAC® Mid & Small and EnterNext® Tech 40 indices, Quadient shares are eligible for PEA-PME investing.

    For more information about Quadient, visit https://invest.quadient.com/en/.

    Contacts

    APPENDIX

    Digital: New name for Intelligent Communication Automation

    Mail: New name for Mail-Related Solutions

    Lockers: New name for Parcel Locker Solutions

    H1 2024 and Q2 2024 consolidated sales

    H1 2024 consolidated sales by geography

    In € million H1 2024 H1 2023
    restated (a)    		 Change Organic
    change
    North America 308 295 +4.1% +2.8%
    Main European countries(b) 182 173 +4.9% (1.6)%
    International(c) 45 49 (8.0)% (2.5)%
    Group total 534 517 +3.2% +0.8%
    (a)  The full-year 2023 financial statements published in March 2024 reflected Quadient’s decision to review the future of its Mail activity in Italy with a view to divest this subsidiary within the next 12 months.
    As this was the case in the full-year 2023 statements, H1 2023 revenue from the afore-mentioned subsidiary is not represented in the consolidated revenue of the Group as it is recorded as discontinued operations. This is still the case in H1 2024.
    (b)  Including Austria, Benelux, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy (excluding Mail), Switzerland, and the United Kingdom
    (c)  International includes the activities of Digital, Mail and Lockers outside of North America and the Main European countries

    Q2 2024 consolidated sales by Solution

    In € million Q2 2024 Q2 2023
    restated (a)    		 Change Organic change
    Digital 66 61 +8.1% +5.8%
    Mail 183 179 +2.4% (0.8)%
    Lockers 23 24 (3.2)% (1.8)%
    Group total 273 264 +3.3% +0.6%
    (a)   The full-year 2023 financial statements published in March 2024 reflected Quadient’s decision to review the future of its Mail activity in Italy with a view to divest this subsidiary within the next 12 months.
    As this was the case in the full-year 2023 statements, Q2 2023 revenue from the afore-mentioned subsidiary is not represented in the consolidated revenue of the Group as it is recorded as discontinued operations. This is still the case in Q2 2024.

    Q2 2024 consolidated sales by geography

    In € million Q2 2024 Q2 2023
    restated (a)    		 Change Organic
    change
    North America 157 150 +4.9% +3.2%
    Main European countries(b) 93 89 +4.2% (1.8)%
    International(c) 22 25 (10.1)% (5.8)%
    Group total 273 264 +3.3% +0.6%
    (a)  The full-year 2023 financial statements published in March 2024 reflected Quadient’s decision to review the future of its Mail activity in Italy with a view to divest this subsidiary within the next 12 months.
    As this was the case in the full-year 2023 statements, Q2 2023 revenue from the afore-mentioned subsidiary is not represented in the consolidated revenue of the Group as it is recorded as discontinued operations. This is still the case in Q2 2024.
    (b)  Including Austria, Benelux, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy (excluding Mail), Switzerland, and the United Kingdom
    (c)  International includes the activities of Digital, Mail and Lockers outside of North America and the Main European countries

    First half-year 2024

    Consolidated income statement

    In € million H1 2024
    (period ended
    on 31 July 2024)    		 H1 2023 restated
    (period ended
    on 31 July 2023)
    Sales 534 517
    Cost of sales (135) (131)
    Gross margin 399 387
    R&D expenses (31) (31)
    Sales and marketing expenses (143) (139)
    Administrative and general expenses (97) (90)
    Service and support expenses (58) (55)
    Employee profit-sharing, share-based payments and other expenses (5) (3)
    Acquisition-related expenses (4) (3)
    Current operating income 61 65
    Optimization expenses and other operating income & expenses (16) (6)
    Operating income 45 59
    Financial income/(expense) (21) (16)
    Income before taxes 24 43
    Income taxes 2 (6)
    Share of results of associated companies 0 (0)
    Net income from continued operations 26 37
    Net income of discontinued operations (1) (0)
    Net income 25 37
    Of which:

    • Minority interests
    		 1 1
    • Net attributable income
    		 24 36

    Simplified consolidated balance sheet

    Assets
    In € million    		 H1 2024
    (period ended
    on 31 July 2024)    		 FY 2023
    (period ended
    on 31 January 2024)
    Goodwill 1,089 1,082
    Intangible fixed assets 118 121
    Tangible fixed assets 158 156
    Other non-current financial assets 66 65
    Other non-current receivables 2 2
    Leasing receivables 591 598
    Deferred tax assets 47 17
    Inventories 71 67
    Receivables 193 228
    Other current assets 74 84
    Cash and cash equivalents 194 118
    Current financial instruments 2 2
    Assets held for sale 11 9
    TOTAL ASSETS 2,617 2,550
    Liabilities
    In € million    		 H1 2024
    (period ended
    on 31 July 2024)    		 FY 2023
    (period ended
    on 31 January 2024)
    Shareholders’ equity 1,064 1,069
    Non-current provisions 15 12
    Non-current financial debt 552 715
    Current financial debt 329 66
    Lease obligations 39 46
    Other non-current liabilities 4 2
    Deferred tax liabilities 119 104
    Financial instruments 4 5
    Trade payables 69 79
    Deferred income 190 212
    Other current liabilities 219 225
    Liabilities held for sale 13 15
    TOTAL LIABILITIES 2,617 2,550

    Simplified cash flow statement

     

    In €millions

    		 H1 2024
    (period ended
    on 31 July 2024)    		 H1 2023 restated
    (period ended
    on 31 July 2023)
    EBITDA 111 112
    Other elements (11) (7)
    Cash flow before net cost of debt and income tax 100 105
    Change in the working capital requirement (19) (55)
    Net change in leasing receivables 6 16
    Cash flow from operating activities 87 66
    Interest and tax paid (38) (35)
    Net cash flow from operating activities 49 31
    Capital expenditure (46) (46)
    Net cash flow after investing activities 3 (15)
    Impact of changes in scope (8) 0
    Others 0 (0)
    Net cash flow after acquisitions and divestments (5) (15)
    Dividends paid 0 (0)
    Change in debt and others 64 25
    Net cash flow from financing activities 64 25
    Cumulative translation adjustments on cash (0) (1)
    Net cash from discontinued operations 2 (1)
    Change in net cash position 60 10

    Figures exclude Mail Italian subsidiary which has been reclassified as discontinued operations in 2023.
    (1) H1 2024 sales are compared to H1 2023 sales, to which is added pro rata temporis the revenue of Daylight and Frama for a consolidated amount of €12 million. The currency impact is positive for €1 million.
    (2) Including IFRS 16
    (3) H1 2024 ARR impacted by a €0.2 million negative currency effect vs 31 January 2024
    (4) EBITDA = current operating income + provisions for depreciation of tangible and intangible fixed assets.
    (5) For the H1 2024, the average compounded number of shares is 33,950,930. Diluted number of shares is 34,487,900.
    (6) Net debt / shareholders’ equity
    (7) Subject to the renewal of the share buyback authorizations at the 2025 AGM
    (8) FY 2026 leverage ratio excluding leasing target of 1.5x

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: FEMA Celebrates Climate Week NYC, Officials Across the Agency Participate in Events, Promote FEMA’s Year of Resilience

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: FEMA Celebrates Climate Week NYC, Officials Across the Agency Participate in Events, Promote FEMA’s Year of Resilience

    FEMA Celebrates Climate Week NYC, Officials Across the Agency Participate in Events, Promote FEMA’s Year of Resilience

    WASHINGTON – As extreme weather events caused by climate change continue to increase across the nation, FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell, U.S. Fire Administrator Dr. Lori Moore-Merrell, FEMA Deputy Administrator for Resilience Victoria Salinas, and FEMA Regional Administrator Region 2 David Warrington will attend Climate Week NYC and lead FEMA’s largest contingent of FEMA officials to ever attend the annual gathering. During the week, FEMA officials will highlight FEMA’s Year of Resilience, host several engagements, and participate in Climate Week NYC Events. 

    FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell will attend several events and address topics including extreme heat, climate risk, resilience, and how climate change is impacting the insurance market. Administrator Criswell will be a keynote speaker at the WSJ House, Bloomberg Sustainable Finance Forum, AON’s Resilience and Adaptation: Ensuring Economic Progress and Combating Climate Risk, and Global Citizen Addressing the Human Costs of Extreme Heat – Financing Measures to Safeguard Human Health at an International and National Level.

    As New York City hosts the 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly in addition to Climate Week NYC, FEMA is proudly supporting efforts to ensure a safe event each year and is dedicated to ensuring a unified coordinated effort between Local, State, and Federal agencies throughout the greater New York City area throughout the week. 

    Kicking off Climate Week NYC this year, the U.S. Fire Administration will host a Fire Chiefs Roundtable: Climate Change Driven Risks, Response and Resilience: Fire Chiefs’ Perspective  to bring together officials to discuss the current wildfire situation and what it will take to get ahead of future wildfire ignitions and the devastating impacts of intensifying storms. The roundtable will build on discussions and information exchanges that occurred during the inaugural World Fire Congress convened by FEMA/USFA in Washington, D.C. in May 2024.

    FEMA will also host a Risk Communications Webinar, where presenters will share successful strategies to communicate risk and inspire preparedness action in the face of increasingly frequent hazards—an alarming consequence of climate change. 

    FEMA and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) are partnering for a full-day summit exploring resilient infrastructure challenges and innovative solutions through discussions on the recently published National Resilience Guidance, nature-based solutions, energy efficiency, net-zero energy, and sustainable disaster debris management. 

    The following events are open to the media: 

    Monday, September 23

    10:00 AM: U.S. Fire Administration to Host a Fire Chiefs Roundtable: Climate Change Driven Risks, Response and Resilience: Fire Chiefs’ Perspective (Virtual; In-Person Registration is Closed)

    What: The U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) will host an interactive roundtable discussion on climate change driven risks, response and resilience during Climate Week NYC. This interactive roundtable brings together fire chiefs and their government counterparts including U.S. Fire Administrator Dr. Lori Moore-Merrell, FEMA Associate Administrator for External Affairs Justin Ángel Knighten, FEMA Associate Deputy Administrator for Resilience Robin Keegan, FEMA Regional Administrator Region 2 David Warrington, Fire Chief Orange County Brian Fennessy, Fire Chief Los Angeles County Tony Marrone, Fire Chief Fairfax County John Butler, Fire and EMS Chief Washington, D.C. John Donnelly and acting Fire Chief New York City John Esposito. Discussion topics will include the current wildfire situation and what it will take to get ahead of future wildfire ignitions and the devastating impacts of intensifying storms. FEMA Region 2 will host the roundtable discussion including stakeholders from academia, nongovernmental organizations, U.S. and international government representatives and fire service leaders. The roundtable will build on discussions and information exchanges that occurred during the inaugural World Fire Congress convened by FEMA/USFA in Washington, D.C. in May 2024.

    2:30 PM: FEMA to Host National Webinar – Risk Communications (Virtual)

    What: Presenters will share successful strategies to communicate risk and inspire preparedness action in the face of increasingly frequent hazards—an alarming consequence of climate change. This event is a valuable opportunity for risk and crisis communicators, community leaders, emergency management professionals and stakeholders involved in disaster preparedness. Participants will learn strategies for creating awareness and activities that help communities plan for disasters and build resilience amid the climate crisis. Participants will have the opportunity to ask questions to support communications best practices related to developing and sharing critical preparedness messaging.

    Tuesday, September 24

    9:00 AM – 4:00 PM: FEMA and EPA to Host Event: Climate Resilient Infrastructure: Building a More Sustainable Future (Virtual and In-Person Registration Required)

    What: FEMA and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) are partnering for a full-day summit exploring resilient infrastructure challenges and innovative solutions through discussions on the recently published National Resilience Guidance, nature-based solutions, energy efficiency, net-zero energy and sustainable disaster debris management. Attendees will get to hear from FEMA and our public, private and academic partners on several topics including nature-based solutions, net-zero energy projects, energy efficiency efforts, the use of salvaged materials and how each of these fit into nationwide resilience strategy.

    Where:  Climate Week NYC: Climate Resilient Infrastructure: Building a More Sustainable Future.

    Register: Climate Resilient Infrastructure: Building a More Sustainable Future Tickets, Tue, Sep 24, 2024 at 9:00 AM.

    2:45 PM: FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell to Speak at WSJ House 

    What: FEMA Administrator Speaks at Wall Street Journal Live on resilience.

    Where: Bryant Park Grill, 25 W 40th St, New York, NY 10018. 

    To register for this event, please contact WSJ Live.

    Wednesday, September 25

    9:20-10:00 AM: FEMA Administrator to speak at AON’s Resilience and Adaptation: Ensuring Economic Progress and Combating Climate Risk

    What:  FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell will join a panel discussion on how the unprecedented risk environment has upended the traditional balance where insurance was the dependable safeguard enabling the flow of capital across the economy. Severe weather and a changing climate are rendering historically safe investments uninsurable, sending shockwaves through the financial systems and threatening the livelihoods and progress of institutions and individuals alike. This high-level dialogue will touch on the major challenges a lack of insurance access creates for the public and private sectors, what needs to be done and the potential for new paradigms to bring the system back into balance. 

    Where: Aon Corporate Headquarters, One Liberty Plaza (165 Broadway), New York, NY 10006.

    To register for this event, please contact Aon. 

    11:00 AM: FEMA Administrator to speak at Global Citizen Addressing the Human Costs of Extreme Heat – Financing Measures to Safeguard Human Health at an International and National Level 

    What: FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell will join a panel discussion to discuss extreme heat. 

    Where: Guastavino’s located at 409 E 59th St, New York, NY 10022.

    To register for this event, please contact Global Citizen.

    Thursday, September 26

    1:30 PM-2:00 PM: FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell will speak at Bloomberg’s Sustainable Finance Forum

    What: FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell will headline the Bloomberg Sustainable Finance Forum at Bloomberg Headquarters for a fireside chat with Bloomberg Intelligence Director of ESG Research Eric Kane. 

    Where: 731 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10022.

    To register for this event, please contact Bloomberg Sustainable Finance Forum.

    3:00 PM-4:00 PM: Climate Resiliency Fireside Chat with FEMA, NASA and NOAA (Virtual Registration Required)

    What: FEMA, NASA and NOAA will be discussing climate resiliency and the importance of forward-thinking programs that equip communities for the climate challenges of today and tomorrow. Panelists include FEMA Deputy Administrator for Resilience Victoria Salinas, NASA Chief Scientist Dr. Kate Calvin and NOAA Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Oceans and Atmosphere and Deputy Administrator Jainey Bavishi. This is a unique opportunity for community leaders and members from federal, state, local, tribal and territorial governments, nonprofits, the private sector and academia to connect with subject matter experts, share knowledge and deepen understanding of how to build resilient communities in the face of a changing climate.

    amy.ashbridge

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Creating Jobs In A Clean, Equitable, Resilient Economy

    Source: US State of New York

    September 23, 2024

    Albany, NY

    Governor Kathy Hochul today announced New York’s participation in the U.S. Climate Alliance’s Governors’ Climate-Ready Workforce Initiative to grow career pathways in climate and clean energy fields, strengthen workforce diversity, and jointly train 1 million new registered apprentices across the Alliance’s states and territories by 2035. Governor Hochul made the announcement today at a Climate Week NYC event, which also featured her Alliance Co-Chair New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham, founding Alliance member Washington Governor Jay Inslee, and White House National Climate Advisor Ali Zaidi.

    “In New York, we’re showing how climate action and economic growth go hand-in-hand,” Governor Hochul said. “As a co-chair of the U.S. Climate Alliance, I’m proud to be collaborating with states, industry leaders, labor unions, higher education and community organizations to create the jobs of the future required to build a clean, equitable, and resilient economy. A skilled and well-prepared workforce will drive innovation, create new businesses, and ensure a sustainable, resilient future for our country.”

    “We need a climate-ready workforce — from EV technicians and heat pump installers to solar panel manufacturers — to meet our carbon reduction goals,” New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham said. “The Executive Order I’m issuing today in conjunction with the Alliance’s new Workforce Initiative will help ensure that workers from all backgrounds have access to the skills and training needed for high-quality, climate-ready jobs across New Mexico.”

    “We’re aligning our ambitious climate policies with workforce development to have 1 million more workers poised to take these good-paying, union jobs that serve our communities and strengthen our economies,” Washington Governor Jay Inslee said. “These are economy-wide jobs, not just in clean energy but building trades, land management, clean technology and more. Climate Alliance states have a track record of meeting our ambitious goals and that momentum continues today.”

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    Through the initiative, Governor Hochul and the bipartisan coalition of 23 other governors, representing approximately 60 percent of the U.S. economy and 55 percent of the U.S. population, will partner to strengthen and expand pathways into a wide variety of climate-ready professions that are critical to building a clean, equitable, and resilient net-zero future.

    The initiative goals are to:

    • Advance strategies to ensure climate-ready employment pathways lead to good-paying, high-quality jobs.
    • Prioritize equity in climate-ready workforce policies and programs to expand opportunities for all workers, particularly those from underrepresented communities.
    • Foster meaningful and inclusive collaboration across government, tribal nations and communities, workforce systems, labor unions, industry, community-based organizations and educational institutions.
    • Support innovative and evidence-based approaches to help workers enter and advance in climate-ready careers through a range of supportive services.
    • Promote the development and use of stackable, portable, and industry-recognized credentials in climate-ready fields to build transferable skills, support reskilling and upskilling, and strengthen workers’ economic mobility.
    • Encourage climate-focused workforce planning that is rooted in evidence and aligns with states’ existing workforce development and education systems.

    The initiative’s launch comes as historic federal investments, combined with ambitious state climate action, have unleashed a significant expansion of good-paying and union jobs in clean energy and clean technology fields—such as wind, solar, electric vehicles, energy efficiency, and batteries—with millions more anticipated in the coming years under the Biden-Harris administration’s Inflation Reduction Act and Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.

    In New York, we’re showing how climate action and economic growth go hand-in-hand.”

    Governor Kathy Hochul

    Governor Hochul Announces $2.3 million to Support Job Training for Offshore Wind Projects

    Building on the workforce initiative, Governor Hochul announced a $2.3 million award to support training for careers in offshore wind through the State’s Offshore Wind Training Institute (OWTI). The International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local Union 3 has been selected to develop and deliver training for offshore wind-related skills to 100 pre-apprentices and 430 journeypersons in New York City.

    This funding award, administered by the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority, will support offshore wind career awareness training as part of IBEW Local 3’s pre-apprenticeship and journeypersons training departments. Eighty of the 100 pre-apprentices will be placed in offshore wind related apprenticeship programs, and all 430 journeypersons will receive offshore wind-specific technical training, with six to be trained as instructors in offshore wind technical training.

    The training program will identify and include the knowledge and skills that are needed for electricians in all stages of offshore wind development, from preassembly through operation and maintenance.

    The funding builds on the nearly $11 million previously awarded through OWTI to other organizations supporting offshore wind related trainings. Programs supported included those at the New York City Union Iron Workers Locals 40 and 361, Capital Region BOCES, and eight different SUNY schools. The OWTI, along with NYSERDA, has built a network of academic, community, industry and labor alliances that will prepare up to 2,500 New Yorkers for careers in renewable-energy fields. OWTI is collaborating with the Renewable Energy and Sustainability Center at Farmingdale State College and the National Offshore Wind Research and Development Consortium at Stony Brook University that is supported by NYSERDA and the U.S. Department of Energy.

    Additionally, as part of the New York Power Authority’s commitment in the 2023-24 Enacted State Budget to support the efforts of the Office of Just Energy Transition in collaboration with the New York State Department of Labor (NYSDOL) and invest annually in workforce training efforts, the Power Authority has thus far committed more than $12 million to support clean energy industry workforce development initiatives around the state.

    In July, NYPA issued a Clean Energy Workforce Training (CEWT) RFP for qualified based training providers (such as technical high schools, community colleges, universities, trade associations, manufacturers, and others) who can collaborate to develop technical training opportunities, hands-on experience, paid internships and full-time jobs for people entering the clean energy workforce. At its upcoming Oct. 8 meeting, NYPA’s Board of Trustees will vote on awarding roughly $2 million to a number of projects that would create a diverse, equitable, and inclusive pipeline of skilled talent for the clean energy labor market with a focus on pathways for employment in the clean energy field for residents of disadvantaged communities in the vicinity of NYPA’s facilities across New York State.

    Read more information on the Governors’ Climate-Ready Workforce Initiative.

    White House National Climate Advisor Ali Zaidi said, “Under President Biden and Vice President Harris’s leadership, we are bringing down the barriers to economic opportunity, lowering costs for American families, and catalyzing a renaissance of American-made manufacturing that is creating jobs across America. In fact, just last year, we added over 250,000 new American energy jobs — with clean energy jobs growing twice as fast as the rest of the sector. Governors across America are at the forefront of our efforts to spur growth in union jobs, expand American energy production, and invest in the economic success of our communities. Today’s announcement will help capitalize on our momentum to create a climate-ready workforce that is rebuilding our nation’s infrastructure, communities, and industrial strength.”

    New York State Energy Research and Development Authority President and CEO Doreen M. Harris said, “Building a clean energy economy is no small feat, and that is why this newly announced Governors’ Climate-Ready Workforce Initiative is so critical. To succeed, our national and state workforces, need to be filled with expert technicians trained in the latest technologies. NYSERDA looks forward to continuing our support for workforce development and training programs through national partnerships like those being fostered by the U.S. Climate Alliance, and regional partnerships like the Offshore Wind Training Institute, as we grow New York’s industry in collaboration with other states.”

    New York Power Authority President and CEO Justin E. Driscoll said, “In alignment with the leadership of Governor Hochul’s and the U.S. Climate Alliance’s Governors’ Climate-Ready Workforce Initiative, the New York Power Authority’s workforce development programs are connecting New Yorkers with the skills and job training needed to power the state’s, and in turn the nation’s, clean energy future. NYPA’s investments in our own workforce, public-private workforce partnerships, and partnership with the Department of Labor are part our holistic approach to support the essential clean energy workforce and engage more New Yorkers in the clean energy economy.”

    Empire State Development President, CEO & Commissioner Hope Knight said, “New York State’s participation in the Governors’ Climate-Ready Workforce Initiative will further strengthen our efforts to train New Yorkers for high-quality jobs in green energy industries. Governor Hochul’s ongoing commitment to addressing climate change, with support from our federal and state agency partners, will grow the economy while creating a sustainable future.”

    New York State Department of Labor Commissioner Roberta Reardon said, “Pairing registered apprenticeship opportunities with our environmental sustainability efforts is a win-win for workers and employers. By developing registered apprenticeships in line with clean energy goals, New York State continues to strengthen local economies in the on-going transition to a low-carbon economy. I applaud Governor Hochul’s commitment to the U.S. Climate Alliance’s Governors’ Climate-Ready Workforce Initiative, allowing our combined efforts to reach beyond state borders to ensure a sustainable, enduring future for our country’s workforce.”

    BlueGreen Alliance Executive Director Jason Walsh said, “We’re excited to see governors stepping up to make sure we have the workforce needed to fill the good jobs that are being created by the Inflation Reduction Act, Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, and CHIPS and Science Act. There is a tremendous opportunity from those federal investments to rebuild our blue-collar middle class by creating pathways into skilled, long-term careers in sectors like construction and manufacturing. This commitment from governors across the country is good for workers, good for employers, and good for the high-road clean energy economy we’re building together.”

    National Skills Coalition Managing Director of State Strategies Melissa Johnson said, “State governments have a crucial role to play in leveraging historic federal investments to create unprecedented jobs and training opportunities for the workforce while fighting climate change. It is incredible that this coalition of governors is stepping up to prioritize the diversity and economic security of the climate workforce because our climate readiness hinges on a new generation of workers having access to the education, skills training, and economic supports they need to access good jobs and careers in this booming sector.”

    International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local Union No. 3 Business Manager Christopher Erikson said, “Today’s announcement on the “Climate-Ready Workforce Initiative” is a great step forward in continuing to prepare future members of the IBEW and unionized Building Trades for the green energy jobs of today and beyond. We welcome tomorrow’s apprentices from all walks of life into our ranks with open arms, ready to deliver world-class training and to prepare them for union careers with family-supporting wages and benefits. Thank you to Governor Hochul, the Biden-Harris administration, US Climate Alliance, and NYSERDA for addressing the climate crisis head-on and supporting the unionized green workforce.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Readout of the Secretary-General’s meeting with H.E. Ms. Ebba Busch, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Energy, Business and Industry of Sweden

    Source: United Nations secretary general

    The Secretary-General met with H.E. Ms. Ebba Busch, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Energy, Business and Industry of Sweden.

    The Secretary-General and the Deputy Prime Minister exchanged views on the follow-up to the Summit of the Future, including the Global Digital Compact, as well as on climate transition.  They also discussed the war in Ukraine.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI: 21.co Integrates Chainlink Proof of Reserve To Increase Transparency of its Wrapped Bitcoin (21BTC) on Solana and Ethereum

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ZURICH, 23 September 2024 – 21.co, the parent company of 21Shares – one of the world’s largest issuers of crypto exchange traded products (ETPs), today announced the integration of the industry-standard Chainlink Proof of Reserve on both Solana and Ethereum mainnets to increase the transparency of 21.co Wrapped Bitcoin (21BTC). The firm is leveraging Chainlink Proof of Reserve within 21.co’s digital asset management platform Onyx to automate real-time reserve verification and enable secure minting of 21BTC.

    In May 2024, 21.co announced the launch of 21BTC on Solana, offering users native access to Bitcoin on Solana through a simple and secure solution that creates cross-chain compatibility, liquidity and utility. Earlier this month, the firm announced the expansion of its Wrapped Bitcoin ecosystem with the launch of 21BTC on Ethereum with one of the world’s largest market makers, Flow Traders. 21.co wrapped Bitcoin is built by institutions and for the digital asset community with institutional security and strong mechanisms to help ensure user protection.

    Chainlink has securely enabled over $15 trillion in transaction value and its infrastructure is seamless to integrate, time-tested in production, and provides ease of integration and widespread adoption – making Chainlink 21.co’s preferred decentralized computing platform and recommended service for bringing reserve data onchain.

    21BTC is a native Solana and a native Ethereum token, fully backed 1:1 by Bitcoin reserves held in cold storage and institutional custody. Timely updates on the status of those BTC reserves are delivered onchain via Chainlink Proof of Reserve, giving users greater visibility and stronger assurances that 21BTC is fully collateralized. Ultimately, this makes Bitcoin, the largest digital asset by market cap and proven store of value with deep liquidity, more easily and securely accessible across the Solana and Ethereum ecosystems.

    Key benefits of Chainlink Proof of Reserve include:

    • Programmatic Utility — By bringing reserve data onchain, protocols can build automated logic around the reserve data backing an asset thus building new use cases and features such as automated onchain risk management.
    • Confidence — With secure minting, Proof of Reserve protects against malicious minting by embedding cryptographic guarantees that new tokens minted are backed by reserves, helping to prevent infinite mint attacks.
    • Decentralized — As the industry-standard solution, Chainlink Proof of Reserve Feeds are decentralized at the data source and oracle node level, eliminating central points of failure in the sourcing and delivery of external data to Solana and Ethereum.
    • Transparent — Chainlink Proof of Reserve Feeds can be monitored by anyone in real-time, allowing any user to independently verify asset collateralization, bringing increased transparency and trust to onchain products.

    “21Shares and Chainlink have played fundamentally important roles in ensuring the adoption of a more secure blockchain infrastructure, and we’re excited to see 21Shares integrate Chainlink Proof of Reserve to support 21BTC. Proof of Reserve’s role in enabling a secure minting function is a key step to creating a reliable framework that allows for the tokenization of trillions of dollars in value.”— Johann Eid, Chief Business Officer at Chainlink Labs.

    “The industry-standard Chainlink Proof of Reserve is critical for providing transparency into the reserves backing 21BTC, helping to secure its minting function and supporting its widespread adoption across the Solana and Ethereum ecosystems. By securing the minting function and providing timely and reliable monitoring of reserves, Proof of Reserve gives users greater assurances that 21BTC is fully backed by BTC 1:1.”— Eliezer Ndinga, Head of Strategy and Business Development, Digital Assets at 21.co.

    About 21.co
    21.co is the world’s leader in providing access to crypto through traditional finance and decentralized finance. 21.co offers cryptocurrency exchange traded products (ETPs) via its 21Shares affiliate, as well as blockchain infrastructure technology. 21.co’s products are built on its proprietary operating system, Onyx, which is also distributed to third parties. The company was founded in 2018 by Hany Rashwan and Ophelia Snyder. For more information, please visit www.21.co.

    About Chainlink
    Chainlink is the industry-standard decentralized computing platform powering the verifiable web. Chainlink has enabled over $12 trillion in transaction value by providing financial institutions, startups, and developers worldwide with access to real-world data, offchain computation, and secure cross-chain interoperability across any blockchain. Chainlink powers verifiable applications and high-integrity markets for banking, DeFi, global trade, gaming, and other major sectors.

    Learn more about Chainlink by visiting chain.link or reading the developer documentation at docs.chain.link.

    Disclaimer

    21.co Wrapped Tokens are not available in certain jurisdictions, including the United States. These Tokens are not available to US Persons and US Persons will not be permitted to mint/burn.

    The information provided does not constitute a prospectus or other offering material and does not contain or constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of any offer to buy securities or any other regulated products in any jurisdiction. Some of the information published herein may contain forward-looking statements and readers are cautioned that any such forward looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, involve risks and uncertainties, and actual results may differ. Additionally, there is no guarantee as to the accuracy, completeness, timeliness or availability of the information provided and 21.co and its affiliated entities are not responsible for any errors or omissions. The information contained herein may not be considered as economic, legal, tax or other advice and viewers are cautioned not to base investment or any other decisions on the content hereof.

    +++

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: La Maison captures the drama, intrigue and intense rivalry of the luxury fashion world

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Elizabeth Kealy-Morris, Senior Lecturer and Researcher in Dress and Belonging, Manchester Fashion Institute, Manchester Metropolitan University

    With the release of dramas Cristóbal Balenciaga, The New Look and Becoming Karl Lagerfeld, the fashion drama miniseries has become a staple for streaming television in 2024.

    The latest offering, French-language drama La Maison on Apple TV, captures the essence of the drama and intrigue surrounding Maison Ledu, a fictional luxury haute couture house controlled by the Ledu family.

    The dynamics between key characters are well outlined, and explore universal themes such as love, power, ambition and betrayal, as well as a longing for connection, acceptance and identity. In this way La Maison has little to do with apparel and clothing in their materiality: the camera does not linger over sketches or runway collections. The series, instead, engages with fashion on a more abstract level, highlighting how it intersects with broader human concerns.

    Vincent Ledu (Lambert Wilson) is the celebrated designer whose scandal threatens to the future of Maison Ledu. His racist tirade against a wealthy Korean client was captured by catering staff at a pubic function and posted on social media by Ledu’s scheming nephew in a bid to ruin his uncle’s reputation.

    Perle Foster (Amira Casar) is Vincent’s former principal model and inspiration who, despite her lasting attachment to Vincent, is crucial in the house’s post-scandal revival. Paloma Castel (Zita Hanrot) is the orphaned mixed-heritage daughter of Vincent’s long-time gay lover. Neither were accepted into the family and this tension of class, race, and sexual orientation difference is central to the plot throughout the series.

    The character of Paloma, in her early 30s, represents millenial indifference to tradition, hierarchy and heritage. We meet her in the first episode as the co-designer of a Berlin-based luxury eco-focused ready-to-wear brand. It’s marking a milestone with its first runway show at Paris Fashion Week with other brands’ deadstock (unsold inventory) forming the runway collection.

    The trailer for La Maison.

    In a bid to ensure the Ledu brand makes radical shifts in creative leadership after the racism scandal, Perle seeks to sideline Vincent and draw Paloma into Maison Ledu as the next-generation designer who will bring innovation and hope to Maison’s restoration. Diane Rovel (Carole Bouquet), the iron-fisted CEO and matriarch of the Rovel Luxury Group, represents the archetype of the fashion conglomerate within fashion markets, controlled by the monetary interests of anonymous shareholders. Viewers learn early that her acquisition plans for Maison Ledu are driven by strategic interest and personal vendetta.

    The luxury fashion market

    The series effectively sets up the central conflict, the stakes involved and the potential for dramatic and strategic manoeuvres. It paints a vivid picture of the internal and external pressures faced by Maison Ledu as it struggles to navigate its crisis, a problem that has notably rocked actual luxury fashion houses in recent years. An interesting aspect of the series is the contemporary understanding of the role social media plays in creating spectacle that brings people together as well as divides.

    The luxury fashion market seeks to protect and extend agreed assumptions of how such brands function via rarity, exclusivity and uniqueness to add value to their brand DNA, products and businesses. Luxury brands must ensure coherence between values, narratives, highly skilled craft and artistic techniques, with space for both tradition and innovation. By integrating these elements harmoniously, a brand can sustain its luxury status and build a lasting impression of excellence and exclusivity.

    Luxury fashion, clothing and apparel markets depend on the objects they design becoming status symbols. But they also rely on the allure, appeal, imagination and magic promised through fashion stories that are told through photography and videography. This latest AppleTV+ fashion drama is released against the backdrop of shifting consumer expectations in the luxury sector, particularly in the wake of the COVID pandemic.

    There has been a transformative shift from traditional “show-and-tell” marketing to more immersive and interactive brand experiences. Consumers now seek to “join and experience” luxury brands rather than merely observe – and this is driving brands to create engaging content that extends beyond the product itself. This evolution has given rise to innovative strategies, including online videos, interactive events and sophisticated uses of technology to enhance post-purchase engagement.

    The rise of the fashion series is a direct response to these changing consumer preferences. By integrating high-quality media narratives with brand storytelling, these series offer a novel avenue for brands to convey their history and ethos, creating a platform for the fashion industry to captivate audiences and deepen their connection with the brand narrative.

    As streaming platforms continue to gain prominence, the collaboration between fashion houses and media producers is likely to expand. This means that in the future, the intersection of fashion and storytelling will become increasingly integral to brand identity and consumer connection.

    So while both Maison Ledu and Rovel Luxury Group are fictitious brands, shows like La Maison as a general marketing tool for real-world fashion houses and brands. Meanwhile the location of Paris for this series is testament to that city as the global centre of haute couture – and the stakes involved in it remaining so.


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

    Elizabeth Kealy-Morris 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. La Maison captures the drama, intrigue and intense rivalry of the luxury fashion world – https://theconversation.com/la-maison-captures-the-drama-intrigue-and-intense-rivalry-of-the-luxury-fashion-world-239233

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: Remarks by National Economic Advisor Lael Brainard on Sustaining American Auto  Leadership

    Source: The White House

    Detroit Economic Club, Detroit, Michigan

    As Prepared for Delivery

    Thank you to the Detroit Economic Club for hosting me today. It is a pleasure to be back in the Motor City where I had a great time working on autos in one of my first jobs. 

    I want to thank Governor Whitmer for her important partnership, along with Mayor Duggan, County Executive Evans, Senators Stabenow and Peters, and Representatives Dingell, Stevens, Tlaib, Thanedar, and many others.

    The President and Vice President are determined that America’s iconic automakers and autoworkers are positioned to win the future. Our auto strategy is designed to invest in America’s world class autos supply chain from end to end; take tough, targeted enforcement actions against China’s unfair practices; and invest in America’s best-in-class autos workforce. 

    Today, I am pleased to announce two important new steps to advance our autos strategy. We are proposing a first-of-its-kind rule to safeguard America from the risks posed by connected vehicles from China. And we are building out the Michigan Workforce Hub to give workers the skills they need to contribute to this dynamic sector and expanding access to capital for small- and medium-sized auto manufacturers.

    The American Auto Sector

    The auto sector is an iconic American industry and our largest manufacturing sector. Over 3.2 million Americans work in the auto industry, and one third of those are in manufacturing jobs. The auto sector creates good-paying, union jobs that provide a ladder to the middle class, a sense of community, and the opportunity to work and retire with dignity.

    Nowhere is that more evident than right here in the proud city of Detroit and the great state of Michigan.

    While it wasn’t born here, America quickly made the auto industry our own. Here in Detroit, Henry Ford revolutionized transportation by mass producing a car for the common man. By 1930, the Big 3 had come to dominate global auto sales. The legendary Flint sit-down strike in 1936 gave rise to the United Autoworkers, and by 1941, hundreds of thousands of UAW members had good-paying, middle class jobs and pensions at the Big 3. During World War II, the auto industry became the center of the Arsenal of Democracy, churning out bombers, tanks, and engines by the thousands.

    When the Global Financial Crisis hit our auto sector hard, President Obama and then-Vice President Biden came to the rescue of the Big 3 and Detroit. UAW members made difficult sacrifices to get the industry back on its feet.

    Just a decade later, the pandemic brought new challenges. Decades of offshoring had left our supply chains fragile, and shutdowns of semiconductor factories in Asia and shipping disruptions led to layoffs on shop floors here and unfinished vehicles piling up in parking lots.
    Our automakers and autoworkers are no stranger to a tough fight. And this Administration has always stood with them.

    We worked tirelessly with business and labor to move semiconductors to auto plants and repair snarled transportation and logistics networks. These actions and our recovery plan enabled U.S. auto production to rebound three times faster than Europe. During this Administration, the U.S. auto industry has created more than 275,000 new jobs – in contrast to the loss of 86,000 auto jobs under the previous administration.

    Now our automakers and autoworkers face another seismic shift – the growing presence of clean vehicles, the rise of connected cars, and a wave of underpriced Chinese auto exports hitting global markets due to Chinese overcapacity.

    Investing in America’s Auto Supply Chain

    The President and Vice President have a comprehensive strategy to position the American auto sector to win the future.

    First — we are investing in America’s auto supply chain from end to end to make sure American autos remain best in class. That means investing in every stage, from small suppliers to final assembly, and using every tool at our disposal, from grants and loans to tax credits. This investment approach deploys demand- and supply-side incentives, from removing barriers to providing upfront consumer rebates to bolstering our domestic supply chains.

    Through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, we are building a nationwide network of EV charging stations and building a domestic supply chain for batteries and critical minerals. Just last week, we announced $3 billion in selections for projects through the Battery Supply Chain Awards, including several projects in Michigan, to boost domestic production of advanced batteries, funding the expansion and construction of new facilities for critical minerals, battery components, battery manufacturing, and recycling.

    Through the CHIPS and Science Act, we are supporting dedicated investments for the legacy chips that power cars and the advanced chips and materials that enable electric vehicles to drive further and charge faster.

    Through the clean energy incentives in the Inflation Reduction Act, we are providing families with an up-front rebate of up to $7,500 when they choose to buy a U.S.-made electric vehicle with U.S. batteries and materials. The Department of Energy’s Domestic Automotive Manufacturing Conversion Grant Program is providing $1.7 billion of federal investment that is leveraging $5 billion in total investment to help retool 11 auto plants across eight states to produce electric vehicles and electric vehicle (EV) components while protecting good jobs and union jobs. Michigan is receiving $650 million of federal investment from this one program alone.

    These incentives have already driven historic investment totaling more than $177 billion in the EV supply chain, including in the battery supply chain that China dominates. They are supporting investments that are projected to transform the United States into a major lithium producer by the end of the decade and that are now projected to produce batteries to meet all forecasted U.S. demand for EVs by 2030.

    Protecting American Autos from Unfair Competition

    Second — we are taking tough, targeted action to protect our auto sector from security risks and to ensure China does not unfairly undercut our auto sector. Americans should drive whatever car they choose – gas powered, hybrid, or electric. But, if they choose to drive an EV, we want it to be made in America, not in China.

    In order for companies to invest in innovative new designs and models here in America, they need to be assured that their investments won’t be undercut by unfairly underpriced cars from China. And in order for consumers to be safe and secure in increasingly connected cars on American roads, we need to guard against national security risks from China.

    China is flooding global markets with a wave of auto exports at a time when they are experiencing overcapacity. We have seen this playbook before in the China shock of the early 2000s that harmed our manufacturing communities. We saw it in Michigan – according to one analysis, the Detroit metro area lost more than 55,000 manufacturing jobs due to import competition from China. We are seeing that same playbook in EVs and batteries after a period when China compelled American automakers to form joint ventures and license their technology in China.

    The Administration is determined to avoid a second China shock, which means putting safeguards in place before a flood of underpriced Chinese autos undercuts the ability of the U.S. auto sector to compete on the global stage. That’s why this Administration imposed a new 100% tariff on EVs imported from China. It’s why we increased tariffs on China to diversify the autos supply chain, including on EV batteries, legacy semiconductors, and critical minerals.

    Many of our allies, including Canada and the European Union, have followed our lead. Moving forward, we will partner with Mexico and Canada to ensure that our North American supply chains remain free from state-owned enterprises and foreign entities of concern. China’s overcapacity in EVs will be a major area of focus as we look to the U.S.-Mexico-Canada trade agreement mid-term review in 2026.

    And today, we are taking action to guard against safety and security risks in connected cars and ensure that our auto supply chains are resilient from foreign threats. Connected cars have the ability to exchange data with other cars, your personal devices, America’s infrastructure, our power grid, and auto manufacturers. The computer systems that power these cars can control vehicle movement and collect sensitive driver and passenger data, and the cameras and sensors embedded within them can record detailed information about our country and citizens.

    There are many benefits associated with connected vehicle systems, such as promoting safety, assisting drivers with navigation, and reducing emissions. But where we source these technologies has important implications for our national security, safety on our roads, and the resilience of our auto supply chains.

    China has taken steps to dominate the future of connected vehicles by dominating the software and hardware systems associated with those cars. But connected vehicles with Chinese software and hardware systems could expose the American people to new risks. Without the appropriate safeguards in place, sensitive data on Americans could be passed to Chinese authorities, or connected vehicles might provide a backdoor for malicious foreign actors to engage in espionage or sabotage.

    That is why, today, the Department of Commerce is using its ICTS (Information and Communications Technology Services) authorities for the first time to propose a new rule that would ban vehicles that rely on Chinese software and hardware from driving on American roads.

    Recall that for years China has required vehicle and battery makers to rely on Chinese data centers and software providers as a condition of operating in China.

    In effect, this rule will protect against potential vulnerabilities while allowing Americans to benefit from all that connected vehicles and technological innovation have to offer. 

    Investing in America’s Auto Workforce and Small Suppliers

    Third — we are investing in the autoworkers and small suppliers that are the backbone of our auto sector. We want to ensure that the next generation of leading American autos is produced by union autoworkers and that no auto community is left behind, especially here in Michigan.

    Today, we are unveiling new resources for workers through the new Michigan Workforce Hub. This spring, the President designated Michigan as a Workforce Hub to help Michigan workers prepare for the good jobs created by historic investments in the EV supply chain. The Workforce Hub, which we’ve developed in partnership with the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity, will expand pathways to EV and battery manufacturing jobs and union jobs, particularly for underserved communities in the state.

    Today, the Department of Labor and the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity are announcing a new pilot program to train workers in Wayne County for over 140 high-quality jobs in the auto supply chain, partnering with local automotive employers to enable workers to earn a paycheck while they train, addressing a major barrier to enrollment.

    In addition, the Department of Energy’s Battery Workforce Challenge Program is announcing over $1 million to fund curriculum, equipment, internships, and job placements in community colleges, high-schools, and training institutions across the state. Henry Ford Community College, for example, will receive $200,000 in seed funding to establish a state-of-the-art Battery and Electric Vehicle Technical Center. Key partners in these programs will include the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, high schools, vocational institutions, community colleges and universities, and battery and automotive manufacturers.

    Through our Good Jobs Executive Order, we’re ensuring the benefits of federal grants and investments accrue to workers and communities. For instance, the projects receiving Domestic Conversion Grants will create nearly 3,000 new good-paying auto jobs and retain 15,000 high skilled, union jobs. As a condition for these grants, manufacturers committed to supporting their local communities and workforce. By supporting strong investments, we also support pathways to the middle class, including through union jobs.

    For instance, Blue Bird pledged to expand training programs in local high schools and invest in childcare for working parents at its facilities. And ZF North America is using their Conversion grant to retain and retrain 536 workers – mostly UAW workers – at its facility in Marysville, Michigan, for the production of components to electrify vehicles.

    Last year, the UAW secured record contracts with the Big 3 that will help ensure an equitable transition to electric vehicles. Since then, we have seen a large number of additional automakers announce record wages, and a rise in new labor organizing. From Tennessee to Georgia, and in new battery plants in Ohio and Michigan, workers in the EV supply chain are seeing the benefits of joining a union.

    Our auto workforce also includes hundreds of small and medium-size suppliers manufacturing products ranging from screws and bolts to e-axles. The U.S. economy has added more than 55,000 jobs in manufacturing automobile parts and bodies during this Administration. Many are based here in Michigan: in fact, 96 of the top 100 auto suppliers in North America do business in Michigan and 60 are headquartered here.

    This summer, Vice President Harris came here to Detroit to announce more than $100 million from across the federal government to support small- and mid-sized suppliers and parts manufacturers. That includes. millions of dollars we set aside from the manufacturing conversion grants program for states to make awards to small- and medium-sized suppliers because we heard from officials and suppliers right here in Michigan that smaller manufacturers struggle to tap into large federal grant programs directly.

    Today, we are building on the Vice President’s announcement with additional actions to support capital access for small- and medium-sized suppliers. This includes a commitment from Monroe Capital to launch a new fund of up to $1 billion to provide lower-cost debt capital to auto manufacturers, as well as a $9.1 million grant from the Department of Treasury to launch the Michigan Auto Supplier Transition Program, which will help small and underserved automotive manufacturers and aftermarket suppliers secure financing to scale and shift to supply the EV supply chain.
    Conclusion

    Our economic resilience and national security have been tied to the strength of our auto sector for the past century. Now it is critical the U.S. auto sector is positioned to lead the 21st century.

    We believe that an investment in our auto supply chain – especially here in Michigan – is one of the best investments we can make. That’s why we are investing across the supply chain and strengthening our suppliers, small businesses, workers, and communities that are the lifeblood of the industry.

    Today’s announcements underscore our commitment to auto communities, union jobs, and to the competitiveness and safety of the U.S. auto sector. It is part of a comprehensive approach that is forward looking and leverages the strengths of American manufacturing and the talents of American automakers – here in Detroit, throughout Michigan, and across the country.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ezell Receives NFIB Guardian of Small Business Award

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Mike Ezell (Mississippi 4th District)

    Ezell Receives NFIB Guardian of Small Business Award

    Congressman Mike Ezell (MS-04) released the following statement after being named a “Guardian of Small Business” by the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), the nation’s largest small business organization:

    “Fighting for pro-small business legislation remains a key issue for me in Congress,” Ezell said. “I’m honored to be named a “Guardian of Small Business” in recognition of my efforts to help the job creators on Main Street. The health of small businesses directly correlates to the health of our nation’s economy. I will always fight to protect Main Street businesses across South Mississippi and our country.”

    “The NFIB Guardian of Small Business Award is presented to Members of Congress with a demonstrated record of supporting America’s small and independent business owners,” NFIB President Brad Close said. “This Congress, small businesses faced tough economic headwinds, especially from inflation, labor shortages, and tax pressures at all levels of the government. We are proud to recognize the lawmakers from the 118th Congress who stood up for Main Street by taking pro-small business votes that would reduce taxes, eliminate burdensome government mandates, lower health insurance costs, and fuel the Main Street economy.”

    Lawmakers who voted with small business on key issues during the 118th Congress earned the NFIB Guardian of Small Business Award. NFIB informs lawmakers in advance which votes will be considered NFIB Key Votes and asks lawmakers to support the consensus views of our members. We also remind lawmakers that the results will be reported back to the NFIB membership.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: IMF Executive Board Concludes 2024 Article IV Consultation with Brunei Darussalam

    Source: IMF – News in Russian

    September 23, 2024

    Washington, DC: The Executive Board of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) concluded on September 16, 2024 the Article IV consultation[1] with Brunei Darussalam on a lapse-of-time basis[2].

    Brunei’s real GDP rose by 1.4 percent in 2023 after two years of recession, mainly driven by the non-oil and gas (O&G) sector and the earlier-than-anticipated production from the new Salman oil field in Q4 2023. Inflation fell, reaching 0.4 percent in 2023 compared to 3.7 percent in 2022, supported by the easing of post-pandemic supply chain disruptions, the softening commodity prices, as well as large subsidies and price controls. The fiscal and external position deteriorated in 2023 reflecting weaker O&G production and prices. The current account was also impacted by higher service imports and net income outflows. The banking sector remains stable, liquid, and well capitalized with declining non-performing loans. 

    The recovery is anticipated to continue and risks to the outlook are broadly balanced. Growth is forecasted at about 2.4 percent in 2024 on the back of expected increase in O&G production, including from the new offshore oil fields and rebound in downstream sector, while domestic non-O&G non-tradeable sector growth is expected to plateau. Inflation is expected to remain unchanged at 0.5 percent in 2024, and fiscal and external balances would stabilize alongside O&G prices. Near-term risks tilted downward due to external factors and O&G production challenges. New O&G field discoveries would provide significant upside, while accounting for decarbonization pressures. Structural reform implementation, with product diversification and technological advancement, could boost productivity, but economic and social challenges would remain with adoption of artificial intelligence.

    Executive Board Assessment

    In concluding the 2024 Article IV consultation with Brunei Darussalam, Executive Directors endorsed staff’s appraisal, as follows:

    Growth rebounded moderately in 2023. The stronger-than-expected growth turnaround was supported by a new O&G field coming to stream in late 2023, a high interest rate environment and post-pandemic momentum boosting finance, transport, and hospitality. However, persistent O&G production challenges and maintenance related disruptions in downstream activities along with lower O&G prices weakened the fiscal and external positions in 2023. Consequently, the external position for 2023 remained substantially weaker than suggested by fundamentals and desirable policies and the output gap is assessed to be negative. Disinflation continued mainly due to easing supply chain disruptions and the softening of commodity prices, aided by continuing large scale subsidies and price controls.

    The narrowing output gap, O&G revenue uncertainty and long-term decarbonization trends warrant a prudent fiscal stance, while protecting the vulnerable and public investment. While the use of fiscal buffers in FY 2023/24 was appropriate in view of the cyclical position and to support economic recovery, restoring fiscal buffers through growth-friendly fiscal consolidation should be prioritized going forward. This will require enhanced revenue generation, and could be supported by a low-rate carbon tax, and expenditure rationalization—including via more targeted subsidies.  These efforts should be guided by a fiscal consolidation plan with clear fiscal targets. Plans to establish a MTFF and fiscal anchors, strengthening fiscal risk management and transparency are welcome.

    The currency board arrangement with Singapore is sound and has played a key role in supporting Brunei’s macroeconomic and financial sector stability. Efforts to improve monetary operations, by including Singapore’s interbank transactions in its analysis to understand the influence of Singapore’s policy rates since January 2024, and continuing to narrow the corridor by raising the SFDR, integrating I-bills into the Asset Maintenance Ratio and launching a website for better communication on monetary policies, are welcome. Enhancing inter-agency cooperation regarding the issuance and management of sukuks will be helpful. Over the medium-term, the BDCB is encouraged to build internal capacity in liquidity forecasting to calibrate the issuance of the I-bills and consider establishing a single treasury account. 

    The financial sector remained stable with strong capital and liquidity buffers. Systemic risk is assessed to be contained. Careful tracking of credit growth in both offshore and domestic personal loans is warranted, as declining oil prices could pose risks, despite low NPLs. Ensuring that that the foreign loans continue to be invested in highly credit-rated assets will help to mitigate credit risk. For domestic lending, continuing to deploy prudential measures like capping the Total Debt Service Ratio, assessing unsecured personal loan exposure, and maintaining NPL standards are welcome measures. Authorities are encouraged to stay on track with plans to implement Basel III standards for better liquidity management by the end-2024. Implementation of stress tests is recommended, while considering stress testing for climate transition and physical risks. Efforts to further strengthen prudential frameworks, develop a long-term sukuk markets, green taxonomy and unify disclosure standards, and to improve AML/CFT effectiveness will help to deepen markets, and support long-term green projects. The authorities’ commitment to continue implementing the recommended actions in the APG’s Mutual Evaluation Report is welcome.

    The authorities’ commitment  to ambitious and sustained structural reforms will be critical to ensure growth and diversification, including by transitioning to a low-carbon economy.  Reaching the authorities’ net zero emissions goal by 2050, will require continued development of  the non-O&G sector, including through adoption of green technologies. Continued skill development, while addressing AI-related challenges and closing structural gaps in the first-generation reform areas (external sector trade facilitation, improving business regulation, and governance) vis-à-vis top peers, will be key to facilitate FDI and PPPs. Completing the 2025 National Adaptation Plan and a Climate Vulnerability Assessment should support the prioritization of adaptation strategies.

    Data provided to the Fund has some shortcomings that somewhat hamper surveillance and data quality should be strengthened. Steps are needed to close the identified data gaps in national income, prices, external and fiscal sectors. Efforts for improving external sector data through a survey to better gauge trends in errors and omissions, and payables/receivables and strengthening public financial management (PFM) to build more transparent and accountable fiscal systems and aligning these further with GFSM (2014) are welcome, as are plans to enhance dissemination via the Fund’s e-GDDS portal.

    Table 1. Brunei Darussalam: Selected Economic and Financial Indicators, 2019–29

    Area: 5,765 sq. kilometers

    		                      

    Population (2023): 450,500

    		                      

    Nominal GDP per capita (2023): US$33,581.1

    		                      

    Main export destinations (2023): Australia (21.5 percent), China (16.9), and Singapore (16.7)

    		            

    Unemployment rate (2023): 5.1%

    		                      

    Labor force participation rate (2023): total 67.2; male 75.8%; female 57.3%
         

    2019

    2020

    2021

    2022

    2023

    2024

    2025

    2026

    2027

    2028

    2029
                 

    Est.

    Proj.

    Proj.

    Proj.

    Proj.

    Proj.

    Proj.

    Output and Prices

    		                      
     

    Nominal GDP (millions of Brunei dollars)

    18,375

    16,564

    18,822

    23,003

    20,319

    20,893

    22,197

    23,073

    24,081

    25,153

    26,447
     

    Nominal non-oil and gas GDP (millions of Brunei dollars)

    8,268

    8,868

    9,790

    11,043

    10,883

    11,386

    12,411

    13,620

    15,045

    16,281

    17,717
     

    Real GDP (percentage change) 1/

    3.9

    1.1

    -1.6

    -1.6

    1.4

    2.4

    2.6

    2.6

    2.7

    2.9

    3.1
       

    Oil and gas sector GDP

    3.9

    -4.9

    -4.8

    -7.3

    -2.0

    2.6

    3.1

    3.1

    1.7

    1.1

    1.0
       

    Non-oil and gas sector GDP

    3.9

    8.9

    2.0

    4.3

    4.5

    2.1

    2.0

    2.1

    3.5

    4.4

    4.7
     

    Oil production (‘000 barrels/day)

    121

    110

    107

    92

    74

    84

    94

    94

    99

    90

    90
     

    Natural gas output (millions BTUs/day)

    1,402

    1,358

    1,253

    1,151

    1,214

    1,226

    1,201

    1,220

    1,277

    1,313

    1,313
     

    Average Brunei oil price (U.S. dollars per barrel)

    68.6

    43.3

    72.1

    107.7

    87.1

    89.5

    83.3

    79.9

    77.0

    75.1

    73.8
     

    Average Brunei gas price (U.S. dollars per million BTU)

    9.1

    6.7

    9.1

    14.4

    10.9

    8.6

    9.9

    8.7

    7.8

    7.4

    7.0
     

    Consumer prices (period average, percentage change)

    -0.4

    1.9

    1.7

    3.7

    0.4

    0.5

    1.0

    1.0

    1.0

    1.0

    1.0
         

    (Fiscal Year, In percent of GDP)

    Public Finances: Budgetary Central Government

    		                      
     

    Total revenue

    26.4

    12.6

    24.0

    28.3

    17.3

    19.3

    18.9

    17.5

    16.3

    15.5

    15.1
       

    Oil and gas

    19.8

    7.7

    20.2

    24.5

    13.0

    13.6

    13.4

    12.2

    11.1

    10.1

    9.5
       

    Other

    6.5

    5.0

    3.8

    3.9

    4.3

    5.6

    5.5

    5.3

    5.2

    5.4

    5.6
     

    Total Expenditure

    31.9

    32.6

    29.1

    26.7

    29.2

    29.4

    28.6

    27.8

    26.9

    25.9

    25.1
       

    Current

    29.5

    31.3

    28.0

    25.7

    27.4

    27.0

    26.2

    25.4

    24.5

    23.6

    22.8
       

    Capital

    2.4

    1.3

    1.1

    1.0

    1.8

    2.4

    2.3

    2.3

    2.3

    2.3

    2.3
     

    Overall balance 2/

    -5.6

    -20.0

    -5.1

    1.6

    -11.8

    -10.1

    -9.6

    -10.2

    -10.5

    -10.4

    -9.9
     

    Overall primary balance excluding royalties

    -22.7

    -25.8

    -22.5

    -19.8

    -22.6

    -21.5

    -20.7

    -20.2

    -19.6

    -18.7

    -17.7
     

    Non-oil and Gas Balance (In percent of non-oil and gas GDP)

    -49.5

    -46.1

    -44.3

    -40.2

    -41.8

    -39.2

    -36.5

    -33.7

    -31.1

    -28.6

    -26.1
         

    (12-month percent change)

    Money and Banking

    		                      
     

    Private Sector Credit

    2.0

    0.2

    2.7

    6.0

    3.9

    2.0

    2.0

    2.0

    2.0

    2.0

    2.0
     

    Narrow money

    6.6

    20.8

    6.5

    1.2

    0.7

    3.8

    3.8

    3.8

    3.8

    3.8

    3.8
     

    Broad money

    4.3

    -0.4

    2.7

    1.3

    2.7

    2.6

    2.7

    2.7

    2.7

    2.7

    2.7
         

    (In millions of U.S. dollars, unless otherwise indicated)

    Balance of Payments

    		                      
     

    Goods

    2,211

    1,359

    2,679

    5,153

    3,808

    3,966

    4,264

    4,121

    3,925

    4,013

    4,131
       

    Exports

    7,210

    6,535

    11,001

    14,130

    11,264

    11,416

    11,987

    12,098

    12,024

    12,390

    12,780
       

       Of which: oil and gas

    3,244

    2,943

    4,730

    5,660

    4,185

    3,867

    4,387

    4,243

    3,798

    3,668

    3,617
       

    Imports

    4,999

    5,176

    8,322

    8,977

    7,456

    7,450

    7,723

    7,977

    8,099

    8,377

    8,649
     

    Services (net)

    -1,189

    -855

    -696

    -848

    -1,305

    -1,324

    -1,271

    -1,173

    -1,086

    -1,029

    -989
     

    Primary Income (net)

    362

    360

    90

    -370

    194

    327

    226

    193

    146

    119

    83
     

    Secondary Income (net)

    -490

    -350

    -502

    -671

    -749

    -641

    -687

    -692

    -673

    -684

    -683
     

    Current Account Balance

    894

    514

    1,570

    3,264

    1,949

    2,328

    2,532

    2,448

    2,311

    2,419

    2,541
     

    Current Account Balance (in percent of GDP)

    6.6

    4.3

    11.2

    19.6

    12.9

    15.0

    15.5

    14.4

    13.0

    13.0

    13.0
     

    Gross Official Reserves 3/

    4,273

    3,997

    4,980

    5,035

    4,485

    4,583

    4,682

    4,780

    4,879

    4,977

    5,075
       

    In months of next year’s imports of goods and services

    8.0

    5.2

    5.9

    6.6

    5.9

    5.9

    5.9

    5.9

    5.9

    5.9

    5.9
     

    Brunei dollars per U.S. dollar (period average)

    1.36

    1.38

    1.34

    1.38

    1.34

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …
     

    Brunei dollar per U.S. dollar (end of period)

    1.35

    1.34

    1.36

    1.35

    1.33

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    Sources: Data provided by the Brunei authorities; and Fund staff estimates and projections.

    1/ Non-oil and gas GDP includes the downstream sector.

    2/ In absence of government debt and interest payments, this is also primary balance.

    3/ Comprises foreign exchange assets of Brunei Darussalam Central Bank, SDR holdings, and reserve position in the Fund.

    [1] Under Article IV of the IMF’s Articles of Agreement, the IMF holds bilateral discussions with members, usually every year. A staff team visits the country, collects economic and financial information, and discusses with officials the country’s economic developments and policies. On return to headquarters, the staff prepares a report, which forms the basis for discussion by the Executive Board.

    [2] The Executive Board takes decisions under its lapse-of-time procedure when the Board agrees that a proposal can be considered without convening formal discussions.

    IMF Communications Department
    MEDIA RELATIONS

    PRESS OFFICER: Randa Elnagar

    Phone: +1 202 623-7100Email: MEDIA@IMF.org

    @IMFSpokesperson

    https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2024/09/23/pr-24340-brunei-imf-concludes-2024-article-iv-consultation

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Kelly Announces 14 Grant Recipients for Rural Champions Program – Governor of the State of Kansas

    Source: US State of Kansas

    TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly announced today the 14 grant recipients of the Rural Champions program’s second cohort. The selected Rural Champions will join a growing statewide network of grassroots individuals tackling critical projects in their respective rural communities.

    “Since day one, my administration has been focused on the needs of our rural communities and the quality of life in every region of the state,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “Creating the Office of Rural Prosperity was only the beginning of our support for rural Kansans and their needs. By developing the Rural Champions program, we are assisting communities to find local solutions to specific local challenges.”

    Inspired by a Kansas Sampler Foundation report, the Office of Rural Prosperity, in collaboration with the Patterson Family Foundation, created the Rural Champions program as a way for rural communities to move the needle in areas where a lack of capital or other resources hinders necessary progress. The Rural Champions program provides a one-year wage stipend of $20,800 to each community, along with training and resources. Communities also will receive up to $25,000 at the end of the year to move into the implementation phase of their projects.

    “The diverse challenges rural communities face are much easier to resolve when you have an individual specifically dedicated to their particular issues, which is why the innovative Rural Champions program is so important,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “Investing in our rural communities means investing in our people, which benefits the entire state and elevates their towns in ways that might otherwise not be possible.”

    The 2024-25 Rural Champions include:

    Organization

    Community

    Project area(s)

    Cardinal Community Foundation

    Nemaha County

    Community/Economic Development

    Cheyenne Community Development Corporation

    Cheyenne

    Housing

    City of Herington and CVB

    Herington

    Downtown Revitalization

    Comanche County Economic Development

    Comanche County

    Grant Writing/
    ED Regionalization

    Grinnell-Promoting Pride & Progress

    Grinnell

    Downtown Revitalization

    Harvey County United Way

    Harvey County

    Childcare

    Healthy Bourbon County Action Team

    Bronson

    Placemaking/ Recreation

    Hodgeman County Economic Development

    Hodgeman County

    Housing

    Lane County Community Foundation

    Dighton

    Food Access-Rural Grocery

    Legacy Regional Community Foundation

    Cowley County

    Food Access

    Rooks County Healthcare Foundation

    Rooks County

    Workforce Recruitment

    Stafford County Economic Development

    Stafford County

    Childcare

    The Building Community

    Fredonia

    Community/Economic Development

    United Way of the Flint Hills

    Emporia

    Homelessness

    “The first round of Rural Champions provided a great opportunity for progress and impact in the communities and organization. We again received many outstanding applications — making the selection of these 14 projects very competitive,” Director of the Office of Rural Prosperity Trisha Purdon said. “We are excited to continue the development of the program and add to our network of learning with the new group of Rural Champions.”

    Rural Champions will work with the Office of Rural Prosperity through project completion. At that time, information will again be compiled in the form of guidebooks to add to the library of projects and be made available to provide learning and support to additional communities.

    More information on the Rural Champions program is available here. The guidebooks developed by the first cohort of Champions are available to review here.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pfluger Fly-By: September 13, 2024

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman August Pfluger (TX-11)

    Pfluger Fly-By: September 13, 2024

    Washington, September 13, 2024

    September 13, 2024

    Blocking Confucius Institutes from American Universities

    This week, the U.S. House of Representatives passed my legislation to stop the Chinese Communist Party from infiltrating American university campuses.

    The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) operates “Confucius Institutes” on college campuses under the guise of promoting Chinese language and culture throughout the country. In reality, these organizations are used as Trojan horses to gain access to critical American research and exert the global influence of the CCP.

    My legislation is crucial. It prevents the Department of Homeland Security from funding American universities that host a Confucius Institute or have ties with a Chinese entity of concern. We must not underestimate the credible and real threat that the CCP poses to the United States.

    Click here or below to watch my full floor remarks.

    Remembering 9/11

    Wednesday marked twenty-three years since the horrific 9/11 attacks on our country. May we never forget the 2,977 innocent American lives lost, which included many first responders who ran straight into danger.

    As a member of the Committee on Homeland Security and the Chairman of the Subcommittee on Counterterrorism, I have sounded the alarm on the rise of activity from aggressive terrorist groups. I have introduced legislation aimed at slowing the global recruitment and planning of attacks. The terror threat landscape is as high as it has ever been, especially with hundreds of known and suspected terrorists flowing across our southern border and the botched withdrawal from Afghanistan.

    September 11, 2001, will forever be ingrained in our minds. The fight against evil is not finished. Thank you all to my fellow servicemen and women and their families for their sacrifice. My prayers continue to remain with the families of the victims and survivors of 9/11.

    Biden-Harris Energy Agenda is Hurting Americans

    The Biden-Harris Administration’s war on fossil fuels has led to high energy bills for American families and businesses across the country. This week, I joined my colleagues on the Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Energy to learn more about the impacts of the Administration’s energy policies over the last three years. We heard directly from a generational family farmer whose business is struggling due to skyrocketing inflation and increasing production costs.

    In fact, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s 2024 farm income forecast painted a bleak picture for American agriculture. It projects that net farm income will decline nearly 25% in two years, with substantial losses in crop receipts and continued pressure from rising costs. Meanwhile, interest rates are at the highest level seen in 40 years.

    Congress must pass a strong Farm Bill to protect not only our farmers and ranchers but also the American food supply. Watch here or below for my full line of questioning.

    2024 Angels in Adoption Honoree

    Congratulations to Matt Waller of Midland on being named a 2024 Angels in Adoption Honoree. I enjoyed visiting with him to hear about his work to establish The Attic Foster Network and the Heart Gallery of West Texas. I thank Matt for his dedication and commitment to bettering the lives of children and families across our state.

    Examining the FDA’s Role in Protecting Americans

    On Tuesday, I joined my colleagues on the Energy and Commerce Health Subcommittee to oversee the FDA’s regulation of food and tobacco. Since 2020, illegal disposable e-vapor products from China have flooded the U.S. market, with 65% of the market being illegal and targeting teens. The FDA has failed to stop these imports and hasn’t provided clear guidance to retailers on unauthorized products. The FDA must be held accountable for failing to protect Americans’ health. Watch here or below for my full line of questioning.

    Congress Must Take Action to Secure Medical Supply Chains

    I joined Representatives Brad R. Wenstrup, D.P.M. (OH-02), Blake D. Moore (UT-01), and Mark Green, M.D. (TN-07) in releasing a Request for Information (RFI) to solicit feedback for strengthening and enhancing domestic medical supply chains.

    Securing our nation’s medical supply chains is not just a matter of economic importance; it is a matter of national security. Congress must prioritize revitalizing our domestic medical supply chains to eliminate our reliance on adversaries, like China, for essential medical supplies. Read more about the RFI here.

    Applications Closing for Congressional Youth Advisory Council

    I am excited to announce the re-launch of the Congressional Youth Advisory Council for high school juniors and seniors in the 11th Congressional District of Texas. This esteemed program offers a unique opportunity for passionate and driven young leaders to engage with government, collaborate with peers, and serve their communities.

    Participants will have the chance to interact directly with me, special guests, and senior staff members in up to four interactive virtual meetings. Additionally, CYAC participants will be provided special admittance to the Pfluger Youth Leadership Conference in Spring 2025 (Date TBD).

    Interested students are encouraged to apply by completing an application at pfluger.house.gov/services/cyac.htm.

    The deadline for submissions is TODAY September 13, 2024.

    For questions about the program or application, please contact Corbette Padilla in the Midland district office at 432-687-2390.

    Upcoming Service Academy Night

    My office will soon be hosting a Service Academy Night on September 30th from 6:00-7:30 p.m. for high school students interested in pursuing an education and military career through the U.S. military service academies.

    The event will be held at the Angelo State University Houston Harte University Center in the CJ Davidson Conference Center, 1910 Rosemont Drive, San Angelo, Texas, 76901.

    Students, parents, and educators are encouraged to attend! If you have questions or would like to RSVP, please reach out to Mary O’Connor in my office at mary.oconnor@mail.house.gov.

    2024 Congressional App Challenge

    My office is now accepting submissions for the 2024 Congressional App Competition. The competition is open to all 6-12 grade students in the 11th Congressional District of Texas and is an opportunity for students to develop their skills in computer science and STEM skills.

    The deadline is October 24th, 2024 at 12:00 pm ET. Students can register and upload their app here.

    Step-by-Step Video Guide

    The Congressional App Challenge website has a step-by-step video guide that walks students, parents, and educators through the application process. Clickhereto access the video guide.

    PRIZES

    The winner from the 11th Congressional District, chosen by a panel of expert judges, will be featured on the House of Representatives website, House.gov, as well as on CongressionalAppChallenge.us. The winning app will also be displayed in the U.S. Capitol among other winners from across the country. Additional sponsor prizes to be announced.

    RULES

    · Students will create an application (aka app) for PC, web, tablet, robot, mobile, etc Any programming such as C, C++, JavaScript, Python, Ruby, or “block code” will be accepted.

    · There are NO LIMITS on the application theme or topic.

    · Students may work individually or in teams made up of no more than four.

    Students are highly encouraged to review the competition’s complete rules and regulations on the Congressional App Challenge’s website. For more information, please visit congressionalappchallenge.us/or contact Kathy Keane in the San Angelo Office at Kathy.Keane@mail.house.gov.

    Thank you for reading. It is the honor of my lifetime to serve you in Congress. Please follow me on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for daily updates.

    Rep. August Pfluger

    Member of Congress

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Sophos Named a Leader in 2024 Gartner® Magic Quadrant™ for Endpoint Protection Platforms

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    OXFORD, United Kingdom, Sept. 23, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Sophos, a global leader of innovative security solutions for defeating cyberattacks, today announced that it has once again been named a Leader in the 2024 Gartner® Magic Quadrant™ for Endpoint Protection Platforms (EPP). This is the 15th consecutive time that Sophos has been positioned as a Leader in the report.

    Sophos’ market-leading endpoint security solutions, including Sophos Intercept X Endpoint, protect more than 300,000 organizations against advanced cyberthreats with anti-exploit, anti-ransomware, deep learning artificial intelligence (AI), and other sophisticated technologies. This includes the ability to detect remote ransomware, an attack that attempts to encrypt data over the network from a compromised remote device, by stopping it in real-time and automatically rolling devices to their original state. It also includes Adaptive Attack Protection, an industry-first feature which automatically disrupts attackers and dynamically adjusts protections based on threat context to stop in-progress attacks. The feature provides defenders with valuable additional time to respond when under active attack. Through a partnership with Tenable, Sophos Managed Risk provides attack surface visibility, continuous risk monitoring, vulnerability prioritization, investigation, and proactive notification to prevent early-stage cyberattacks, reducing the workload for security teams tasked with tackling vulnerability and exposure management. Account Health Check capabilities further monitor and correct security configuration changes, enabling organizations to promptly re-establish security best practices.

    “Organizations are facing an unprecedented level of cyberattacks, with our Sophos X-Op research showing that adversaries are doing far more than accelerating their attacks and covering their tracks. Attackers are shifting their tactics, techniques, and procedures to evade and disable EDR tools – signaling that choosing a tested and hardened solution with a track record for consistent innovation is a ‘must have,’ not optional,” said Rob Harrison, senior vice president, product management at Sophos. “Sophos has been recognized as a 15-time Leader in Endpoint Protection Platforms, we feel this would have not been possible without moving as quickly and aggressively as the adversaries we are fighting every day. ​​Sophos’ technology is rooted in its unique prevention-first approach that reduces breaches, adapts defenses in response to an attack, and improves detection and response outcomes.”

    Already this year, Sophos was named a Customers’ Choice in the Gartner® Peer Insights™ Voice of the Customer for Endpoint Protection Platforms (EPP) report. This recognition follows Sophos being named Gartner Customers’ Choice for EPP for the third consecutive year​.

    Sophos is also named a G2 Leader in Endpoint Protection, EDR, MDR, Firewall, and XDR in its Fall 2024 G2 Grid® Reports. Sophos Intercept X is also recognized as a Leader in the IDC MarketScape for Modern Endpoint Midsize Business and the IDC MarketScape for Modern Endpoint Small Business.

    Like Intercept X Endpoint, Sophos Managed Detection and Response is the top-rated MDR solution on Gartner Peer Insights and a leader. As the most widely used MDR offering with more than 24,000 customers, Sophos MDR is the only MDR service that can be delivered across end users’ existing third-party security deployments as well as Sophos offerings. Organizations can integrate telemetry sources from dozens of vendors, including Microsoft, Amazon Web Services (AWS), Google, CrowdStrike, Palo Alto Networks, Fortinet, Check Point, Okta, Darktrace, and many others, through the Sophos Marketplace.

    Sophos endpoint solutions are a key part of the company’s portfolio of end-to-end integrated security products and services that protect customers at every layer, even across distributed organizations. In addition to endpoint, the portfolio includes network, email, and cloud solutions, as well as managed security and incident response services. All of the solutions feed into the Sophos Adaptive Cybersecurity Ecosystem and are powered by threat intelligence from Sophos X-Ops for faster and more contextual and synchronized protection, detection and response.

    To learn more about Sophos’ recognition in the 2024 Gartner Magic Quadrant for EPP, visit our website and read the blog.

    To learn more about Sophos Intercept X Endpoint, visit https://www.sophos.com/en-us/products/endpoint-antivirus.

    Gartner disclaimers:
    Gartner® Magic Quadrant™: Endpoint Protection Platforms (EPP), Evgeny Mirolyubov, Franz Stefan Hinner, Chris Silva, Deepak Mishra, Satarupa Patnaik, September 23, 2024.

    Gartner does not endorse any vendor, product or service depicted in its research publications, and does not advise technology users to select only those vendors with the highest ratings or other designation. Gartner research publications consist of the opinions of Gartner’s research organization and should not be construed as statements of fact. Gartner disclaims all warranties, expressed or implied, with respect to this research, including any warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose.
    GARTNER is a registered trademark and service mark, Peer Insights and MAGIC QUADRANT is a registered trademark of Gartner, Inc. and/or its affiliates in the U.S. and internationally and are used herein with permission. All rights reserved.

    About Sophos
    Sophos is a global leader and innovator of advanced security solutions for defeating cyberattacks, including Managed Detection and Response (MDR) and incident response services and a broad portfolio of endpoint, network, email, and cloud security technologies. As one of the largest pure-play cybersecurity providers, Sophos defends more than 600,000 organizations and more than 100 million users worldwide from active adversaries, ransomware, phishing, malware, and more. Sophos’ services and products connect through the Sophos Central management console and are powered by Sophos X-Ops, the company’s cross-domain threat intelligence unit. Sophos X-Ops intelligence optimizes the entire Sophos Adaptive Cybersecurity Ecosystem, which includes a centralized data lake that leverages a rich set of open APIs available to customers, partners, developers, and other cybersecurity and information technology vendors. Sophos provides cybersecurity-as-a-service to organizations needing fully managed security solutions. Customers can also manage their cybersecurity directly with Sophos’ security operations platform or use a hybrid approach by supplementing their in-house teams with Sophos’ services, including threat hunting and remediation. Sophos sells through reseller partners and managed service providers (MSPs) worldwide. Sophos is headquartered in Oxford, U.K. More information is available at www.sophos.com.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Deadlines Approaching in Oregon for SBA Working Capital Loans Due to Adverse Weather Conditions

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Francisco Sánchez Jr., associate administrator for the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the Small Business Administration, today reminded Oregon small nonfarm businesses of the deadline dates to apply for an SBA federal disaster loan for economic injury. These low-interest loans are to offset economic losses because of reduced revenues caused by adverse weather conditions in the following primary counties.

    Declaration Number: 20217
    Primary County:  Hood River
    Neighboring Counties: Clackamas, Multnomah and Wasco in Oregon; Skamania and Klickitat in Washington
    Incident Type: Excessive Rain
    Incident Date: July 7, 2023 & continuing
    Deadline: 10/23/24

    Declaration Number: 20220
    Primary County: Wasco
    Neighboring Counties: Clackamas, Gilliam, Hood River, Jefferson, Marion, Sherman and Wheeler in Oregon; Klickitat in Washington
    Incident Type: Drought, Excessive Heat and High Winds
    Incident Date: July 5 – 15, 2023
    Deadline: 10/23/24

    According to Sánchez, small nonfarm businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small businesses engaged in aquaculture and most private nonprofit organizations of any size may apply for Economic Injury Disaster Loans of up to $2 million to help meet working capital needs caused by the disasters. “Economic Injury Disaster Loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable and other bills that cannot be paid because of the disasters’ impact,” said Sánchez.

    “SBA eligibility covers both the economic impacts on businesses dependent on farmers and ranchers that have suffered agricultural production losses caused by the disasters and businesses directly impacted by the disasters. Economic injury assistance is available regardless of whether the applicant suffered any property damage,” Sánchez added.

    The interest rate is 4 percent for businesses and 2.375 percent for private nonprofit organizations with terms up to 30 years. Loan amounts and terms are set by SBA and are based on each applicant’s financial condition.

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

    By law, SBA makes Economic Injury Disaster Loans available when the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture designates an agricultural disaster. The Secretary declared these declarations on Feb. 23.

    Businesses primarily engaged in farming or ranching are not eligible for SBA disaster assistance. Agricultural enterprises should contact the Farm Services Agency about the U.S. Department of Agriculture assistance made available by the Secretary’s declaration. However, in drought disasters nurseries are eligible for SBA disaster assistance.

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

    ###

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Deadline Approaching in Montana for SBA Disaster Loans for Property Damage Due to Straight-line Winds

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Francisco Sánchez Jr., associate administrator for the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the Small Business Administration, today reminded Montana private nonprofit organizations of the Oct. 22 deadline to apply for an SBA federal disaster loan for property damage caused by straight-line winds that occurred July 24. Private nonprofits that provide essential services of a governmental nature are eligible for assistance.

    According to Sánchez, eligible private nonprofits of any size may apply for SBA federal disaster loans of up to $2 million to repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory and other business assets. SBA can also lend additional funds to help with the cost of improvements to protect, prevent or minimize disaster damage from occurring in the future.

    In addition, SBA offers Economic Injury Disaster Loans to help eligible private nonprofits meet working capital needs caused by the disaster. Economic Injury Disaster Loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable and other bills that cannot be paid because of the disaster’s impact. Economic injury assistance is available regardless of whether the private nonprofit suffered any property damage. Private nonprofits have until May 23, 2025, to apply for an SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loan.

    These low-interest federal disaster loans are available in Missoula and Powell counties in Montana.

    The interest rate is 3.25 percent with terms up to 30 years. Loan amounts and terms are set by SBA and based on each applicant’s financial condition.

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

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

    ###

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

    Related programs: Disaster

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Main Street Capital Program Helps New York’s Entrepreneurs

    Source: US State of New York

    Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the launch of the Main Street Capital Program, a new $10 million fund that will provide qualifying start-up and early-stage companies with access to affordable term loans up to $100,000. Part of New York’s broader State Small Business Credit Initiative efforts led by Empire State Development, this program will help bridge the financing gap experienced by many entrepreneurs as they launch and grow their businesses.

    “New York’s businesses are the backbone of our economy and a key driver of our economic growth,” Governor Hochul said. “The Main Street Capital Program will boost and strengthen our small businesses, especially our minority and women entrepreneurs, creating jobs and investment in New York State.”

    Recognizing the critical support entrepreneurs need early on, this program offers minimal payments for the first 12 months of the loan to give businesses more flexibility as they launch and grow. Loans will be up to six years with a fixed interest rate of 9.9%. In the first year, borrowers will pay less-than-interest-only, with no principal payments during that time.

    This $10 million fund is a partnership between Empire State Development and Pursuit, a community lender with a 70-year history serving businesses in all stages in New York State and beyond.

    Many entrepreneurs in the startup and early-growth phases of business lack access to equity and networks for financing needed to be successful. The Main Street Capital Loan Fund offers a more accessible option, particularly for Socially and Economically Disadvantaged Individual Owned Business (SEDI) and Very Small Business (VSB) entrepreneurs with fewer than 10 employees.

    Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “Entrepreneurs and their innovation fuel New York State’s economy. The Main Street Capital Program is one of the ways Empire State Development is helping provide promising start-ups and early-stage companies the tools they need to launch, grow, and achieve business success.”

    Pursuit CEO Chris Levy said, “New York State has been a foundational partner of Pursuit for decades. We are thrilled to be launching another innovative program that benefits underserved startup businesses throughout New York State by ensuring they have a path to success.”

    Pursuit’s Community Development Financial Institution Affiliate President Steve Cohen said, “New and early-stage small businesses often need more time to grow their revenues before repaying their debt, and this time crunch can lead them to predatory sources for capital. The Main Street Capital Loan Fund offers New York’s newest and smallest businesses their best chance at long-term success by providing flexible capital and advisory services to support their future.”

    State Senator Sean Ryan said, “Small businesses are the backbone of New York’s economy. It is important that we enact policies and programs that support them in the early stages that are so critical to a new business. This program will help budding entrepreneurs get established and keep fledgling businesses on track as they establish themselves in their communities.”

    Assemblymember Albert A. Stirpe Jr. said, “The Main Street Capital Program is a valuable resource for New York entrepreneurs, offering affordable-rate loans of up to $100,000. The loan fund provides a more accessible financing option, particularly for socially and economically disadvantaged individual-owned businesses, as well as very small businesses with fewer than 10 employees. New York’s State Small Business Credit Initiative, led by Empire State Development, will help bridge the financing gap, empowering entrepreneurs to turn their dreams into reality and grow their businesses.”

    Startups and early-stage businesses must complete a pre-application questionnaire. Based on their responses, they will be invited to complete a full application for the program, or they may be connected with their local Entrepreneurial Assistance Center (EAC) or Small Business Development Center (SBDC) for additional support.

    For more information on the fund, eligibility, and requirements, please visit the program’s webpage.

    Governor Hochul’s Support for New York’s Small Business Community

    These events build on Governor Hochul’s commitment to helping New York’s small businesses contribute to their local economies. During Small Business Month in May, the Governor announced new initiatives to support business owners, including a $6 million Innovation Matching Grant Program to New York companies applying for the certain federal funding programs and additional support for thousands of NYSIF-insured businesses.

    Governor Hochul also announced that New York State has exceeded its goal for MWBE utilization on New York State contracts with a utilization rate of 32.30 percent during the 2023 Fiscal Year, the highest MWBE utilization rate in the country for the third year in a row. Nearly $3 billion in state contracts were awarded to MWBE firms during the 2023 Fiscal Year, and nearly $29 billion in state contracts have been awarded to MWBEs since 2011Additionally, New York has not only met its commitment to shortening response times for MWBE certification applications to 90 to 120 days — it has exceeded that commitment. Since August 1, 2023, ESD has certified and recertified more than 3,000 businesses, with the average application processing time now taking on average, 90 days. The announcement builds on the Governor’s strong support for MWBEs, including the historic elimination of New York’s yearslong MWBE certification backlog following an $11 million investment in the FY 2023 Budget.

    There are nearly 695,000 small businesses in New York State and approximately 98 percent of New York businesses have fewer than 100 employees. These businesses employ more than 4.5 million individuals in fields from retail and food service to financial services, to agriculture, innovation and construction. In addition to the summer event series, NYSDOL supports businesses of any size and offers several resources.

    Business Services Representatives work with entrepreneurs to create customized solutions to help meet their business goals. The Department also offers free human resource service consultations and assists with workforce recruitment to help employers find skilled workers. NYSDOL offers guidance on hiring incentives, tax credits and funding opportunities that can help employers curb costs.

    About State Small Business Credit Initiative
    More than $500 million in federal funding has been allocated to support the resurgence of small businesses across New York State through the State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI), a program through the American Rescue Plan Act. Managed by the U.S. Department of Treasury, SSBCI provides funds to support programs for small businesses, including socially and economically disadvantaged individual (SEDI) owned businesses and very small businesses (VSB), to recover from the economic effects of COVID-19 and allow them opportunity to succeed in the post-pandemic economy. With this funding, Empire State Development (ESD) has developed a suite of capital access and equity programs to help New York State small businesses grow and succeed. Learn about the following SSBCI programs that Empire State Development has established.

    About Pursuit

    Pursuit is empowering businesses through access to responsible capital and resources to reach higher, transform and grow. With nearly 70 years of lending experience, you’ll find a wide selection of loan programs and advisory services to support businesses at any stage. We’re doing our part to create a more inclusive economy that ensures every business owner has a path to success. Learn more at www.pursuitlending.com.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former Susanville Nurse Practitioner Charged in Superseding Indictment with Additional Counts of Sexual Crimes Against Children

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

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. — A federal grand jury returned a superseding indictment today against Bradley Earl Reger, 68, of Susanville, charging him with seven additional violations of transportation of a minor with intent to engage in criminal sexual activity, travel with intent to engage in illicit sexual conduct, and coercion and enticement, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.

    According to court documents, Reger sexually abused more than a dozen victims under the guise of conducting purported medical examinations at his nursing clinic in Susanville, and in hotel rooms and camp sites all over the world. Reger was a licensed nurse practitioner with the California Board of Registered Nursing from 2003 until Oct. 18, 2023, when the Board of Registered Nursing revoked his license.

    This case is the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Homeland Security Investigations, and the California Department of Consumer Affairs. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Christina McCall and Roger Yang are prosecuting the case.

    If convicted, Reger faces a maximum statutory penalty of life in prison for the most serious charged count and a $250,000 fine per count, plus up to a lifetime of supervised release. Any sentence, however, would be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables. The charges are only allegations; the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

    The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Sacramento Division and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) are seeking to identify potential victims of Bradley Reger. If you believe that you and/or your minor dependent(s) were victimized by Reger at any time, in the United States or abroad, or have information relevant to this investigation, please complete the online form available at: www.fbi.gov/RegerVictims. Additionally, if you know of someone else who may have been victimized by Bradley Reger, please encourage them to complete the form.

    This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute those who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. Click on the “resources” tab for information about internet-safety education.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: FACT SHEET: President  Biden Commemorates Historic Climate Legacy during Climate Week  NYC

    Source: The White House

    President Biden will deliver remarks tomorrow highlighting his climate, conservation, clean energy, and environmental justice agenda, which is lowering costs, creating good-paying and union jobs, and reducing harmful emissions

    Meanwhile, House Republicans continue reckless attempts to roll back climate, conservation, and clean energy investments

    When President Biden took office, he pledged to restore America’s climate leadership at home and abroad. Every day since, the Biden-Harris Administration has led and delivered on the most ambitious climate, conservation, clean energy, and environmental justice agenda in history, including securing the largest ever climate investment and unleashing a clean energy manufacturing boom that has attracted hundreds of billions of dollars in private sector investment; created hundreds of thousands of new clean energy jobs; and lowered energy costs for families while delivering cleaner air and water for communities across the country.

    As business leaders, government officials, young people, and other advocates from around the world gather in New York City to participate in Climate Week, tomorrow President Biden will deliver remarks in New York City highlighting his Administration’s unprecedented progress in tackling the climate crisis, cutting energy costs for everyday Americans, and creating good-paying union jobs.

    Meanwhile, as President Biden and Vice President Harris continue to implement their Investing in America agenda, many Congressional Republicans continue to deny the impacts of climate change and are actively working to roll back this Administration’s historic and urgent climate investments – in fact, House Republicans have voted more than 50 times to repeal parts of President Biden’s climate investments. The contrast couldn’t be clearer.

    From replacing toxic lead pipes and modernizing our electric grid to reducing air pollution and conserving our nation’s lands and waters, President Biden and Vice President Harris have positioned America to lead the global effort against climate change and protect the health, safety, and economic vitality of our communities and our environment for generations to come. 

    Biden-Harris Administration’s Top Climate Accomplishments

    Deploying Clean, Affordable Electricity and Strengthening America’s Power Grid
    Through the Inflation Reduction Act and Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, President Biden has secured unprecedented investments in a clean power sector, unleashing a boom in American solar, wind, battery storage, nuclear, and other clean energy technologies that are creating good-paying jobs and saving families money on utility bills. President Biden’s Investing in America agenda is supporting the U.S. offshore wind industry, transmission buildout and other power grid upgrades, residential solar for low-income households, investments in clean electricity across rural America, efficient permitting to get new projects built, and American manufacturing of clean energy technologies. Since the start of the Biden-Harris Administration, the US has added more than 100 gigawatts of new clean energy – enough to power more than 25 million homes. Thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act, clean energy project developers get access to expanded tax incentives if they pay workers prevailing wages and employ registered apprentices,  build their projects with domestic content, or locate projects in historic energy communities—provisions that are helping make more clean energy jobs good-paying and union jobs, supporting American manufacturing, and driving clean energy investment to the places that can benefit the most.

     
    Bolstering Climate Resilience and Adaptation

    The Biden-Harris Administration is taking a whole-of-government approach to addressing climate impacts, including through Federal climate adaptation planning and integrating consideration of climate impacts into Federal policies, programs, and funding. The Administration released a National Climate Resilience Framework and President Biden secured more than $50 billion for climate resilience and adaptation investments that are upgrading aging roads and bridges, including critical evacuation routes; restoring critical waterways, forests, and urban greenspaces; building forest health and reducing wildfire risk; bolstering water infrastructure and drought resilience across the American West; reducing the risk to federal assets from future floods; and modernizing our electric grid. Through portals like Climate Mapping for Resilience and Adaptation (CMRA) and Heat.gov, the Administration is equipping communities with the information and resources they need to assess climate risks and implement adaptation actions in their communities. With historic investments from the President’s Investing in America agenda, the Administration stabilized the short-term security of the Colorado River and is making investments to ensure the long-term stability of the Colorado River Basin.
     
    Accelerating a Clean Transportation Future

    Last year, the Biden-Harris Administration released the National Blueprint for Transportation Decarbonization, a landmark strategy for eliminating nearly all greenhouse gas emissions from the U.S. transportation sector by 2050. The Administration’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and Inflation Reduction Act invest tens of billions to decarbonize maritime,  trucking, transit, rail, and aviation, all while making communities more walkable, bikeable, and connected. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is also investing $7.5 billion to build a nationwide network of convenient, reliable electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure along corridors and within communities, and $5 billion to put clean school buses on our roads. In addition, the President rallied automakers and autoworkers around a historic goal of having electric vehicles account for at least 50% of new passenger vehicles sold by 2030. To support this goal while driving down consumer costs, the Administration secured tax credits that reduce the cost of new or used clean vehicles by thousands of dollars directly at the dealership as well as tax credits to deploy EV charging and alternative fueling infrastructure to support clean vehicle deployment needs for individuals and businesses within rural and low income communities. The Administration is also leading by example to electrify the federal vehicle fleet, including 66,000 U.S. Postal Service delivery vehicles over five years.

     
    Cutting Energy Costs and Pollution at Homes, Schools, and in Communities

    Last year, 3.4 million American families saved $8.4 billion from IRA home energy tax credits for heat pumps, insulation, solar, and other clean energy technologies, and today states across the US are rolling out IRA rebates of up to $14,000 per household to help low- and middle-income families afford cost-saving electric appliances and energy efficiency improvements. The President established a $20 billion national clean energy financing network that will support tens of thousands of clean energy projects and cost-saving retrofits, reducing or avoiding up to 40 million metric tons of carbon pollution annually over the next seven years. The Biden-Harris Administration has also strengthened energy efficiency standards to save households and businesses money, with standards updated by DOE for dozens of appliances expected to provide nearly $1 trillion in consumer savings over 30 years, saving the average household more than $100 a year while also reducing greenhouse gas emissions by more than 2 billion metric tons. Schools across the country are using IRA clean energy tax credits and elective pay to install solar, energy storage, and ground source heat pumps.

    Revitalizing American Manufacturing for the Clean Economy

    President Biden’s Investing in America agenda has helped catalyze historic manufacturing growth, with factories opening across the nation. The private sector has committed over $910 billion in investments in American manufacturing and clean energy, including sectors central to our industrial strength. The President’s agenda is helping to make U.S. manufacturing the cleanest and most competitive in the world. The Inflation Reduction Act is investing more than $6 billion to slash climate pollution and support workers and community health at U.S. factories producing the steel, aluminum, cement, and other materials that form the backbone of our economy, nearly $2 billion to support shuttered or at-risk auto facilities retain or re-hire workers to support manufacturing in the electric vehicle supply chain, over $3 billion to bolster battery manufacturing, and over $4 billion through the Federal Buy Clean Initiative to bolster markets to buy cleaner materials. The Biden-Harris Administration’s historic steps to reduce super-polluting methane and hydrofluorocarbons are also harnessing American innovation and creating good-paying union jobs. 
     
    Advancing Environmental Justice

    Since Day One, the Biden-Harris Administration has prioritized a whole-of-government approach to environmental justice. The President signed a historic Executive Order that mobilizes the federal government to bring clean energy and healthy environments to all and mitigate harm to those who have suffered from pollution and environmental burdens like climate change. Through the Justice40 Initiative, over 500 programs across 19 federal agencies are being reimagined and transformed to maximize the benefits of President Biden’s unprecedented investments – from clean energy projects to floodwater protections to wastewater infrastructure – to communities that need them most. At the same time, the Administration is taking unprecedented action to protect communities from PFAS pollution, accelerate Superfund and brownfield cleanups, tighten standards for hazardous air pollutants, and enhance air quality enforcement. To ensure the voices, perspectives, and lived experiences of communities with environmental justice concerns are heard in the White House and reflected in federal priorities, policies, investments, and decision-making, President Biden also created the White House Environmental Justice Advisory Council.
     
    Delivering Clean Water and Replacing Lead Pipes

    President Biden and Vice President Harris are fighting to ensure a future where every American has access to clean, safe water. The President’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law invests over $50 billion in upgrading the nation’s water infrastructure – the largest investment in clean water in American history. The Administration has already launched over 1,700 projects to expand access to clean drinking water, replace lead pipes, improve wastewater and sanitation infrastructure, and remove PFAS pollution in water. The Biden-Harris Administration invested over $1 billion from the President’s Investing in America agenda to specifically accelerate the delivery of drinking water and community sanitation infrastructure projects in Indian Country, where almost 50% of communities are lacking this basic human right. President Biden has also made a commitment to replace every toxic lead pipe in the country within a decade, protecting families from lead poisoning that can irreversibly harm brain development in children.


    Empowering Every Community to Advance Climate Solutions

    The historic set of federal actions that the Biden-Harris Administration has taken are supporting communities across the country in seizing opportunities in the clean energy economy. The Administration has mobilized billions of dollars in investment in the energy communities and workers that have powered our nation for generations. To help young people access skills-based training for good-paying careers in the clean energy and climate resilience economy, the Administration launched the American Climate Corps, which will mobilize a new, diverse generation of more than 20,000 Americans. And with direct support from the Administration’s Investing in America Agenda, more than 45 states and more than 200 Tribes, territories, and metro areas have now developed their own Climate Action Plans. All of these foundational efforts will support climate solutions in the near-term and for years to come, helping the nation achieve the goal of reducing climate pollution by 50-52% below 2005 levels in 2030 and reaching a net-zero economy by no later than 2050.

    Conserving our Lands and Waters

    President Biden’s America the Beautiful initiative is supporting and accelerating voluntary, locally led conservation and restoration efforts across the country, and with 42 million acres already protected under President Biden, the U.S. is on track to meet the first-ever national goal to conserve at least 30 percent of our lands and waters by 2030. The Biden-Harris Administration has established or expanded eight national monuments and restored protections for three more; created five new national wildlife refuges and significantly expanded five more; established two new national marine sanctuaries and begun the process to designate or expand protections for five more; created one new national estuarine research reserve; protected the Boundary Waters of Minnesota, the nation’s most visited wilderness area; safeguarded Bristol Bay in southwest Alaska from the impacts of mining; protected the Arctic Ocean from oil and gas development; and withdrawn Chaco Canyon in New Mexico and Thompson Divide in Colorado from further oil and gas leasing which will protect pristine lands and thousands of sacred sites. The Administration also directed the conservation of old-growth and mature forests, put conservation on equal footing with development in managing our public lands, launched the America the Beautiful Freshwater Challenge to protect, restore, and reconnect 8 million acres of wetlands and 100,000 miles of our nation’s river and streams, protected vast areas of caribou habitat in the Western Arctic for future generations, and is advancing the Chumash Heritage National Marine Sanctuary off the coast of California.
     
    Rallying Leaders of the World’s Largest Economies to Raise Global Climate Ambition

    President Biden has restored America’s climate leadership at home and abroad. Under his leadership, the Administration is securing commitments from more than 155 countries to reduce methane emissions by at least 30 percent by 2030; successfully galvanizing other countries at COP28 to commit, for the first time, to transition away from unabated fossil fuels, stop building new unabated coal capacity globally, and triple renewable energy globally by 2030 and nuclear energy by 2050; launching a new Clean Energy Supply Chain Collaborative to work with international partners to diversify supply chains that are critical to a clean and secure energy transition; mobilizing other governments to follow the U.S. lead and commit to achieve net-zero government emissions by 2050 through a new Net-Zero Government Initiative; and becoming a world leader in innovative debt-for-nature swaps that have helped countries restructure over $2 billion in debt and unlock hundreds of millions of new financing for nature and climate.

    Accelerating Federal Permitting to Deliver Clean Energy and Infrastructure More Quickly

    The Biden-Harris Administration has taken action to accelerate clean energy infrastructure and deliver other critical projects by securing and directing long overdue resources to improve and accelerate permitting and environmental reviews. The Administration also finalized the Bipartisan Permitting Reform Implementation Rule to address climate change, protect public health, encourage better environmental outcomes, and promote meaningful public input on Federal decisions and projects.

    House Republicans Continue Attempting to Roll Back Climate Protections

    As President Biden and Vice President Harris implement the most ambitious and impactful climate and conservation agenda in history, House Republicans are taking action right now that would roll back investments in climate, clean energy, and public health. House Republicans’ efforts to gut climate protections through a variety of avenues – including appropriations bills, Congressional Review Act resolutions, and other legislative actions – would raise consumer energy costs, undermine public health protections, worsen the impacts of extreme weather events, and destroy environmental safeguards for our lands and waters.

    Ongoing attempts by Congressional Republicans to roll back climate and environmental protections would:

    Raise Consumer Energy Costs, including by:

    Gut Public Health Protections, including by:

    • Trying to overturn Biden-Harris Administration rules that protect communities from coal plants’ water pollution, air pollution, and waste disposal.
    • Trying to overturn a Biden-Harris Administration rule that will reduce by 96% the number of people with elevated cancer risk near certain chemical plants, by reducing emissions of toxic chloroprene and ethylene oxide from those facilities.
    • Rolling back the Clean School Bus program that will reduce climate pollution and provide cleaner air for our nation’s children.
    • Undermining clean air progress by trying to overturn rules that reduce pollution from power plants, cars and trucks , and industrial sources.
    • Taking steps to block new Biden-Harris Administration rules to protect coal and other miners from toxic silica dust.

    Destroy Protections for Our Lands and Waters, including by:

    • Trying to eliminate Presidential authority to establish national monuments altogether.
    • Working to dismantle President Biden’s America the Beautiful Initiative.
    • Threatening to expose cherished landscapes to new drilling, including 13 million acres of special areas in the Western Arctic.
    • Planning to reduce accountability for oil and gas companies.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: $400K restitution in the mail to Ilwaco mobile home park residents as a result of successful AG lawsuit

    Source: Washington State News

    Owners issued unlawful eviction and utility shut-off notices to residents

    OLYMPIA — Attorney General Bob Ferguson announced today that approximately $400,000 in restitution is on its way to current and former residents of an Ilwaco mobile home park. The owners, Michael and Denise Werner and their companies, including Deer Point Meadows Investments, are paying nearly $1.1 million as part of a legally binding resolution to Ferguson’s consumer protection lawsuit over the Werners’ unlawful eviction and utility shutoff notices.

    In 2022, the Werners and their agents distributed eviction and utility shutoff notices to residents of the Beacon RV mobile home park, signed by “Management,” despite not yet owning the park. While distributing the notices, two of the agents were visibly armed with firearms.

    In written communication, Denise Werner described the Beacon RV residents as “filth.” Michael Werner stated he was not concerned about the Beacon residents’ rights and that he did not believe the law applied to him.

    A judge in Pacific County Superior Court previously ruled the notices were unlawful. The legally binding resolution requires the Werners to pay back their current and former tenants, plus interest, as well as covering the costs of the Attorney General’s investigation and enforcement.

    The approximately 40 current and former tenants will receive a letter from the Attorney General’s Office explaining the resolution. Each tenant will receive a check for $10,000. This is in addition to $57,000 in administrative fines from the Attorney General’s prior enforcement for violations of Washington’s Manufactured/Mobile Housing Landlord Tenant Act, and a court order to provide $2,000 or actual relocation costs to tenants, whichever is greater.

    “This resolution gives significant relief to tenants — many of whom are elderly, disabled, low-income or veterans — and provides accountability for the park owners’ illegal conduct,” Ferguson said. “Washington law is clear: Mobile home landlords must deal fairly with their tenants. My office will continue to be a watchdog for Washingtonians.”

    Ferguson filed a lawsuit in Pacific County Superior Court asserting the Werners violated the Consumer Protection Act and Manufactured/Mobile Housing Landlord-Tenant Act during their purchase and operation of Beacon Charters and RV Park.

    The Werners are based in Vancouver, Wash., and own and operate dozens of mobile home and RV parks across the state. Approximately 4,000 people live in those parks.

    On April 11, 2022, the Werners purchased Beacon, intending to convert the park to short-term rentals. Prior to completing the sale, the Werners began issuing eviction notices to Beacon’s 45 long-term residents on Feb. 25, 2022. The notices were signed by “Management.”

    On April 6, 2022 – still prior to owning the park – the Werners issued a utility shut-off notice, also signed by “Management.” The former CEO of Deer Point testified that this was “standard practice” for the Werners. The Werners attempted to shut off the power, but the local utility provider refused.

    Judge Katherine Svoboda, a Grays Harbor judge who presided over the case in Pacific County court, ruled that the notices were unfair and deceptive, in violation of the Consumer Protection Act. When issuing the notices, and subsequent notices around the park, two of the Werners’ employees were visibly armed with firearms, at the direction of Michael Werner. In addition, the Werners had refused to keep the park clean and safe, as required by law, allowing a rat infestation, piles of garbage and feces-smeared bathroom facilities.

    One resident said people at the park were “shocked and scared.”

    An 81-year-old resident who has lived at the park for eight years said she “worried we might get kicked out onto our butts in the street. … How on Earth can [the Werners] do that legally?”

    A 78-year-old resident undergoing cancer treatment said she saw “rats running all over the place. … I had to borrow money for a lot of things” in order to move.

    In response to the Werner’s notices, a majority of the Beacon residents were forced to leave the property. Some Beacon residents feared for their safety, believing the Werners would kick them out on the streets or tow away their homes.

    One Beacon resident feared having an eviction on her record, which could prevent her from securing low-income housing.

    Another Beacon resident was prevented from seeing his young child because of the Werner’s threats of utility shut-off and safety concerns stemming from the Werner employees openly carrying firearms. Some Beacon residents experienced physical harm from the stress and physical exertion required to move their homes, requiring hospitalization and ongoing care.

    Other tenants had difficulty finding parks with availability to accept their mobile homes.

    Manufactured Housing Dispute Resolution program helps tenants and landlords

    The Attorney General’s Manufactured Housing Dispute Resolution Program received 13 complaints from 10 tenants at Beacon.

    The Legislature created the program in 2007 to help enforce Washington’s Manufactured/Mobile Housing Landlord-Tenant Act (MHTLA) and help resolve disputes between landlords and manufactured home owners. The act applies to situations where the tenant owns their manufactured or mobile home, but rents the space the home sits on.

    Both landlords and tenants can file complaints with the program. The program serves as a neutral party, not an advocate for either side.

    The law directs the program to attempt to bring parties into compliance with the law prior to taking enforcement actions. Enforcement can include administrative measures and litigation.

    Tenants and landlords can file complaints with the program online here: https://fortress.wa.gov/atg/formhandler/ago/MHLTComplaintForm.aspx

    Assistant Attorney General Sebastian Miller, investigator Scott Henderson, paralegal Emin Aliiasov and legal assistant Chris Kiefer handled the case. Former Assistant Attorney General Shidon Aflatooni also worked on the case.

    -30-

    Washington’s Attorney General serves the people and the state of Washington. As the state’s largest law firm, the Attorney General’s Office provides legal representation to every state agency, board, and commission in Washington. Additionally, the Office serves the people directly by enforcing consumer protection, civil rights, and environmental protection laws. The Office also prosecutes elder abuse, Medicaid fraud, and handles sexually violent predator cases in 38 of Washington’s 39 counties. Visit www.atg.wa.gov to learn more.

    Media Contact:

    Brionna Aho, Communications Director, (360) 753-2727; Brionna.aho@atg.wa.gov

    General contacts: Click here

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: House Fights the Woke Agenda of the Biden-Harris Administration

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mike Johnson (LA-04)

    WASHINGTON — This week, the Republican-led House took several important steps to expose and fight the woke agenda of the Biden-Harris Administration.

    “This week, the House passed three comprehensive anti-woke legislative packages, along with several key individual bills, to counter the woke, wasteful, and weaponized agenda of the Biden-Harris Administration. Americans want our banks to be fiduciaries, not social justice warriors. And they want our schools to be places of education, not indoctrination. These key pieces of legislation expose the Democrats radical agenda that’s hurting our students, our banks, and our country,” Speaker Johnson said.

    “From enhancing transparency at the SEC and safeguarding retirement plans so Americans can secure their futures without interference from radical agendas, to challenging divisive DEI mandates that prioritize identity over merit and protecting free speech on our college campuses – House Republicans are working to restore common-sense and accountability in our federal government.”

    Below is a complete list of legislative packages and individual bills passed this week:

    H.R. 5339 – Protecting Americans’ Investments from Woke Policies Act 

    H.R.5339 – RETIRE Act

    H.R.5338 – No Discrimination in My Benefits Act

    H.R.5337 – Retirement Proxy Protection Act

    H.R.5340 – Providing Complete Information to Retirement Investors Act

    H.R. 3724 – End Woke Higher Education Act 

    H.R.3724 – Accreditation for College Excellence Act

    H.R.7683 – Respecting the First Amendment on Campus Act

    H.R. 4790 – Prioritizing Economic Growth Over Woke Policies Act

    H.R.4790 – Guiding Uniform and Responsible Disclosure Requirements and Information Limits Act

    H.R.4655 – Businesses Over Activists Act

    H.R.4767 – Protecting Americans’ Retirement Savings from Politics Act

    H.R.4823 – American FIRST Act

    H.R. 5717 – No Bailout for Sanctuary Cities Act 

    H.J. Res. 136 – Providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Environmental Protection Agency relating to “Multi-Pollutant Emissions Standards for Model Years 2027 and Later Light-Duty and Medium-Duty Vehicles”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Beyond the ivory tower: universities need to prioritise the entrepreneurial mindset, not just new ideas

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Rod McNaughton, Professor of Entrepreneurship, University of Auckland, Waipapa Taumata Rau

    As universities consider their future in the 21st century, many are embracing the concept of “innovation” in their strategic plans.

    According to Harvard Business School, innovation is “a product, service, business model or strategy that’s both novel and useful”.

    By focusing on innovation, universities are attempting to position themselves as drivers of progress – as institutions that generate knowledge and apply it to solve the world’s most pressing problems.

    But here’s the catch: fewer universities embrace “entrepreneurship” similarly, despite it being the critical bridge between innovation and real-world impact.

    Innovation vs entrepreneurship

    It’s easy to see why universities are more comfortable with innovation.

    Labs, research centres and academic programs encourage pushing the envelope in a relatively risk-free setting.

    Original research is one of the requirements of completing a doctorate. This means universities feel like hubs of cutting-edge thinking, even if the innovations never leave the confines of the campus.

    However, entrepreneurship requires something different. Those with an idea also have to understand how to navigate the messy realities of bringing it to fruition.

    Entrepreneurship demands the skills to manage people and resources, assess viability, identify pathways to adoption, and understand the environment while being comfortable with uncertainty and resilient in the face of failure and change.

    Fostering an entrepreneur mindset in academics

    Understanding the distinction between innovation and entrepreneurship is critical. Innovation often begins by assuming no constraints and imagining a world of possibility.

    But entrepreneurship assumes resources are scarce and that success depends on overcoming obstacles and working with what’s available. While innovation can happen in isolation, entrepreneurship needs community, collaboration, feedback and constant adaptation.

    Entrepreneurial skills are valuable for students at all levels and any discipline. But the entrepreneurial process can be especially helpful for researchers and PhD students who have spent years developing an idea but not a way to get it into the real world.

    Bridging the gap

    Globally, there is a growing gap between the number of doctoral graduates and academic jobs.

    Programs such as the ones run by the University of Auckland Business School’s Centre for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (CIE) (which I am involved in), are teaching how to identify opportunities and navigate resource constraints through mentoring, workshops and hands-on projects.

    While some find opportunities to commercialise their research, others pursue policy changes or social ventures.

    One good illustration of this is Kate Riegle van West’s doctoral research. Riegle van West examined the benefits of poi for the health of older adults. Supported by CIE’s programs, she launched SpinPoi, a social venture dedicated to working with poi to improve health and well being.

    Since its founding, CIE has helped start more than 279 ventures and provides entrepreneurial experiences to more than 7,500 students and staff across the university each year.

    Similar programs exist at other universities, but much more needs to be done to scale up the development of entrepreneurial skills within universities.

    Overcoming resistance

    Universities have been slow to prioritise developing an entrepreneurial mindset among students and staff.

    Innovation without entrepreneurship is like building a bridge halfway. You may have a brilliant idea, but it is unlikely to make a meaningful impact without the skills to bring it to reality. Entrepreneurship transforms creative ideas into valuable, tangible outcomes.

    But there are challenges. “Innovation” is more palatable to some academics, especially those who equate entrepreneurship with commercialism. To overcome this, it’s crucial to recognise that entrepreneurial skills are valuable across most endeavours.

    Skills like opportunity recognition, resource allocation, and risk management are critical for starting businesses. But they are also highly valued within existing organisations and for leading teams and driving change in any sector.

    Staff and students may not immediately see the relevance of entrepreneurship to their discipline or career aspirations, thinking entrepreneurship is only for those in business or the sciences.

    Yet there is a growing need for entrepreneurial skills to bridge the gap between academic expertise and application from students in all disciplines.

    At the doctoral level, developing these skills can help ensure research has wider impact, and create opportunities for these researchers once they graduate.

    It’s not that innovation isn’t useful – it’s essential.

    Many industries and organisations rely on innovation to improve efficiency, create new products, and solve complex problems. In some professional contexts, an innovation mindset may be more relevant than an entrepreneurial one.

    But to truly contribute to solving societal problems and prepare their students to make a difference, universities must do more than foster innovation. They must prioritise and develop an entrepreneurial mindset and competencies among students and staff, enabling them to execute, adapt and create lasting impact.

    Rod McNaughton 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. Beyond the ivory tower: universities need to prioritise the entrepreneurial mindset, not just new ideas – https://theconversation.com/beyond-the-ivory-tower-universities-need-to-prioritise-the-entrepreneurial-mindset-not-just-new-ideas-239377

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI: UPDATE – Thnks Announces Winners of the 2024 Thnks Gratitude in Business Awards

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NASHVILLE, Tenn., Sept. 23, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Thnks, the first on-demand gratitude expression platform for enterprises, SMBs, and individual contributors, today announced Troy Stevenson, Account Manager at Pegasus Logistics Group as the individual winner and Pegasus Logistics Group as the company winner for the 2024 Thnks Gratitude in Business Awards sponsored by First Horizon.

    As the gratitude in business pioneer, Thnks has transformed small gestures of appreciation into enduring business connections, fostering loyalty, and driving revenue growth. Through the Thnks Gratitude in Business Awards, Thnks celebrates individuals and organizations who are growing their businesses with gratitude.

    “Troy and the entire team at Pegasus Logistics Group inspire a ripple effect of gratitude that transforms how we do business and strengthens our communities,” said Brendan Kamm, Thnks Co-Founder and CEO. “The response to this year’s Thnks Gratitude in Business Award has been truly remarkable. We’ve seen an inspiring array of stories demonstrating how gratitude is being leveraged as a powerful tool for business growth and relationship building.”

    Pegasus Logistics Group, the first company honored by the Gratitude in Business Awards, is being recognized for their exceptional dedication to fostering a culture of appreciation and recognition to drive growth. The company’s innovative initiatives, including their Culture Team’s CREW program and “People on Point” rewards system, demonstrate a strong commitment to fostering a culture of gratitude and empowerment. As the individual winner, Stevenson’s commitment to building trust-based relationships and consistently showing appreciation embodies the transformative power of gratitude in the workplace.

    “We are truly honored to receive this recognition from Thnks and First Horizon,” said Ken Beam, Founder and CEO of Pegasus Logistics Group. “Gratitude is at the heart of our culture, and this win is a testament to the dedication and commitment of individuals like Troy Stevenson and all our team members. We believe that gratitude is the foundation for building strong relationships with our team members, clients, partners, and the community. It’s wonderful to see both Troy’s efforts and the collective spirit of Pegasus Logistics recognized. We’re excited to continue fostering an environment where appreciation drives success and strengthens our connections.”

    Stevenson will be awarded $10,000 in Thnks credits to enhance further the gratitude program at Pegasus Logistics, a $500 credit from a selection of Thnks retailers, and a $2,500 donation will be made in his name to The Grace Foundation, which assists individuals and families in crisis and guidance toward self-sufficiency. The team at Pegasus Logistics will receive $10,000 in Thnks credits for their gratitude program.

    “At First Horizon we’re proud to support the Thnks Gratitude in Business Awards,” said Lucas Doppler, SVP at First Horizon. “We share Thnks’ vision of celebrating those who elevate their workplace, enhance customer experiences, and enrich their communities – by leading with gratitude. “

    To learn more about the Thnks Gratitude in Business Awards sponsored by First Horizon, visit thnks.com.

    ABOUT THNKS
    Established in 2016, Thnks believes making people feel appreciated – not just part of a transaction – is a business-building strategy. Utilized by over 10,000 teams and 120 Fortune 500 companies, Thnks is an on-demand gratitude expression platform for enterprises, SMBs, and individual contributors that converts small acts of gratitude into lasting business relationships that drive loyalty and revenue. The Thnks platform incorporates technology, program analytics and compliance/budget adherence to empower customers with a more economical, intentional, and authentic way to make people feel appreciated. To date, millions of Thnks have been sent – proving small acts of gratitude generate outsized business impact.

    ABOUT FIRST HORIZON
    First Horizon Corp. (NYSE: FHN), with $82.2 billion in assets as of June 30, 2024, is a leading regional financial services company, dedicated to helping our clients, communities, and associates unlock their full potential with capital and counsel. Headquartered in Memphis, TN, the banking subsidiary First Horizon Bank operates in 12 states across the southern U.S. The Company and its subsidiaries offer commercial, private banking, consumer, small business, wealth and trust management, retail brokerage, capital markets, fixed income, and mortgage banking services. First Horizon has been recognized as one of the nation’s best employers by Fortune and Forbes magazines and a Top 10 Most Reputable U.S. Bank. More information is available at www.FirstHorizon.com.

    ABOUT PEGASUS LOGISTICS GROUP
    Pegasus Logistics Group is a global leader in transportation and logistics, specializing in both international and domestic shipments of consequence. With a client-centric approach and a flexible global network of partners, we deliver a highly managed transportation model that adapts to the unique challenges of each business. Our stakeholder-focused approach ensures that our solutions benefit not just our clients but also our team members, partners, and communities. At Pegasus Logistics Group, we believe that true partnership is defined by flexibility, collaboration, and a commitment to improving business processes as we grow together.

    FOR MORE INFORMATION, PRESS ONLY:
    Kaileigh Higgins
    thnks@inkhouse.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/2d0bcf29-0a44-40ba-92d5-2b6dadd89c15

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: In-Depth Analysis – Analysis of the Proposal for a Directive on Transparency of Third-Country Interest Representation – 23-09-2024

    Source: European Parliament

    This analysis discusses specific issues regarding the proposal for a Directive on the transparency of third-country lobbying. It highlights complex questions in relation to civil society organisations and the need for uniform implementation and effective judicial protection. If designed and implemented well, the Directive could establish a transparent framework for foreign governments to engage in lobbying within the EU. This document was provided by the Policy Department for Economic, Scientific and Quality of Life Policies at the request of the Committee on Internal Market and Consumer Protection (IMCO).

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Leading African fund managers receive awards for supporting promising entrepreneurs and start-ups across the continent

    Source: European Investment Bank

    • First Circle Capital, SpeedInvest and Knife Capital achievements awarded for their work in African venture capital.
    • The Africa Venture Finance Programme at Oxford’s Saïd Business School hosted 41 prominent African and Africa-focused venture capital fund managers, with more than half of them being women.
    • The programme is funded by the EU, through Boost Africa, and by the AfricaGrow Technical Assistance Facility financed by the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development through KfW

    African venture capital (VC) fund managers First Circle Capital, SpeedInvest and Knife Capital have all received awards recognising their success in supporting promising entrepreneurs and start-ups across African countries. The awards were presented during the Africa Venture Finance Programme, a week-long, in-person course, organised for the third time at Oxford university’s Saïd Business School from 9 to 13 September 2024. The programme aims to support VC fund managers investing in early and growth-stage technology companies in Africa, with Boost Africa and AfricaGrow hosting 41 leading fund managers from 31 African VC funds.

    The ‘Most Promising Fund Manager’ award was given to the all-female team from First Circle Capital, who invest in and support early-stage fintech founders.

    The ‘Best Deal’ award went to SpeedInvest for their investment in Moove, a rapidly growing company providing vehicle financing and supply solutions.

    Lastly, the ‘Lifetime Achievement Award’ was presented to Keet van Zyl, founding partner of South Africa-based Knife Capital, in recognition of his contributions to the venture ecosystem and leadership.

    “We are proud of Boost Africa’s role in supporting a vibrant and resilient VC ecosystem in Africa and helping African entrepreneurs transform their ideas into successful businesses,” said EIB Vice-President Ambroise Fayolle. “The EIB is committed to financing new technology and ideas that will address the global challenges we all face.”

    The shortlisted candidates were peer-selected by fellow fund managers, and a panel of judges composed of limited partners determined the winners from the shortlisted candidates. Investors from funds including Partech, AfricInvest, TLcom, Norssken, Speedinvest came together to discuss innovative solutions for Africa’s unique challenges. The five-day event allowed participants to share expertise and facilitate discussions to drive rapid growth in Africa’s technology venture capital sector. Attendees from all over the continent took part, with more than half of them being women, reflecting increased gender inclusiveness within venture capital leadership.

    Several Oxford academics joined the group discussions covering a wide range of topics such as the growing need for innovative funding instruments and the influence of artificial intelligence (AI) on the continent’s future. Additionally, several prominent African investors attended the forum to share best practices and discuss the way forward. Participants engaged with representatives from different development finance institutions and international organisations. This included Andrea Clerici, Director for Corporate Finance & Global Activities at the European Investment Bank, and delegates from the European Commission and the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States.

    “The opportunity to exchange confidential insights, discuss inherent challenges, and ultimately build deeper human bonds is essential for strengthening our collective ability to build our VC ecosystem together. No other conference or event has provided anywhere near as much value as this one.” – Nivesh Pather, Principal at Norrsken22.

    “It is important for me to always be learning. The trends in our part of the world are equal parts cyclical and rapidly evolving. We heard so many fresh perspectives and voices coupled with experience. I left Oxford with a renewed commitment to focus on the how.” –  Ory Okolloh, Partner at Verod-Kepple Africa Ventures.

    “This year’s Africa Venture Finance Programme proved once again the enormous potential of venture capital in Africa. A whole new generation of investors are taking the long view on building an entire new ecosystem. At Oxford Saïd Business School we are proud to be part of supporting this journey which will transform African economies, one startup at a time!” – Thomas Hellmann, Professor of Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Saïd School of Business, Oxford University

    The Africa Venture Finance Programme is supported by the EU via the Boost Africa programme and by the AfricaGrow Technical Assistance Facility.

    Background information

    About Boost Africa

    Boost Africa is a joint initiative between the European Investment Bank and the African Development Bank (AfDB) to enable and enhance entrepreneurship and innovation across Africa in a commercially viable way. It addresses a current gap in the African market by providing early-stage venture capital paired with skills development.

    Boost Africa focuses on financial intermediaries investing in innovative business models and start-ups developing digital solutions across various sectors including, inter alia, information and communication technologies (ICT), healthcare, climate mitigation and adaptation, education, financial services, and manufacturing sectors. There is a particular emphasis on financial intermediaries focusing on youth and women and on sectors where innovation can improve the quality of people’s lives, in particular for lower-income households.

    Boost Africa Technical Assistance Facility, part of the broader Boost Africa programme, provides bespoke support to strengthen the core professional and operational skills of partner fund managers and their investees to realise growth potential among innovative tech start-ups and high growth SMEs in Africa. The Facility is funded by the European Commission and the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States, through the 11th European Development Fund. The funding is managed by the European Investment Bank (EIB) and implemented by Adam Smith Europe, part of the Adam Smith International Group.

    About AfricaGrow

    The AfricaGrow Fund of Funds is a blended finance vehicle managed by Allianz Global Investors and serves as a catalyst for private capital into Africa by providing a de-risked capital structure for institutional investors, fostering indirect investments into African Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and start-ups via local Private Equity and Venture Capital fund investments. Its LPs are DEG, KfW – on behalf of the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) and Allianz insurance companies.

    As a legally independent entity, AfricaGrow is a central instrument of the Compact with Africa (CwA) initiative, which was launched in 2017 under the 50 German G20 presidency. The Technical Assistance Facility is funded by the German Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) through KfW, while the fund is managed by Allianz Global Investors and advised by DEG Impact GmbH.

    About the EIB

    The European Investment Bank (EIB) is the long-term lending institution of the European Union owned by its Member States. It makes long-term finance available for sound investment in order to contribute towards EU policy goals.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Mobile Disaster Recovery Center Open in Baker County

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Mobile Disaster Recovery Center Open in Baker County

    Mobile Disaster Recovery Center Open in Baker County

    TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — FEMA has opened Mobile Disaster Recovery Center in Baker County to provide one-on-one help to Floridians affected by Hurricane Debby.

    Center location:

    Baker County
    Baker County Fairgrounds
    5567 Lauramore Road
    Macclenny, FL 32063
    Open 10 a.m.–8 p.m. Monday-Thursday

    When this center moves to a new location, details will be provided to the public. 

    To find other center locations for Hurricane Debby go to fema.gov/drc or text “DRC” and a Zip Code to 43362. All centers are accessible to people with disabilities or access and functional needs and are equipped with assistive technology. 

    Homeowners and renters in Alachua, Baker, Citrus, Columbia, Dixie, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Hillsborough, Jefferson, Lafayette, Levy, Madison, Manatee, Pinellas, Sarasota, Suwannee and Taylor counties can visit any open center to meet with representatives of FEMA, the State of Florida and the U.S. Small Business Administration. No appointment is needed.

    The quickest way to apply for FEMA assistance is to go online to DisasterAssistance.gov. You can also apply using the FEMA App for mobile devices or calling toll-free 800-621-3362. The telephone line is open every day and help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as Video Relay Service (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service. To view an accessible video on how to apply visit Three Ways to Apply for FEMA Disaster Assistance – YouTube. 

    For the latest information about Florida’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4806. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.

    kirsten.chambers

    MIL OSI USA News –