NewzIntel.com

Category: Education

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former Employee Pleads Guilty to Embezzling More Than $135,000 from Dupo School District

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    EAST ST. LOUIS, Ill. – A Waterloo woman admitted guilt to a federal charge Monday for embezzling more than $135,000 as a former employee of Dupo Community Unit School District #196.

    Linda J. Johnson, 58, pleaded guilty in federal court to one count of theft from a federally funded program.

    According to court documents, Johnson committed the embezzlement while employed in an administrative support role in the superintendent’s office between 2020 and 2022. In this role, Johnson was responsible for depositing cash and checks into the district’s activities account intended to support student athletics, clubs, and extracurriculars.

    To conceal her crime, she would prepare bank deposit slips reflecting the correct amount of cash and checks received, but later she prepared a second set of fraudulent deposit slips that only accounted for the checks, while she kept the cash.

    “Stealing funds from student activities directly deprives children of opportunities within their extracurriculars,” said U.S. Attorney Rachelle Aud Crowe. “Although the defendant tried to conceal her crime from school officials by preparing two sets of records, her deceit was discovered, and she will be held accountable.”

    The loss to the school district is $135,566.80.

    “The FBI works to protect the well-being of our children on many levels, and investigating the embezzlement of school funds is no different,” said FBI Springfield Field Office Special Agent in Charge Christopher Johnson. “FBI Springfield would like to thank the Dupo Police Department for their vital role in this investigation.”

    Theft from a federally funded program convictions are punishable by up to 10 years’ imprisonment and fines up to $250,000. Johnson’s sentencing is scheduled for 10:30 a.m. on Feb. 27, 2025, at the federal courthouse in East St. Louis.

    Officials with the Dupo School District said the plea agreement reached Monday represents accountability for a serious breach of public trust that impacted their students, staff, and the entire Dupo School District community. They said they are grateful to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for their diligent work in securing justice for our students and taxpayers.

    The Dupo Police Department and the FBI Springfield Field Office are directing the investigation, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Steve Weinhoeft is prosecuting the case. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Federal Jury Finds Man Guilty of Defrauding UConn

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that a federal jury in Hartford has found DICKSON ALORWORNU, also known as “Dixon Al,” 35, a citizen of Ghana residing in Greenwich, guilty of fraud offenses.  The trial before U.S. District Judge Sarala V. Nagala began on October 23 and the jury returned guilty verdicts on both counts of an indictment this afternoon.

    According to the evidence presented during the trial, in December 2017, Alorwornu used other individuals’ names, fake Social Security numbers, and email addresses to submit two non-degree student applications to the University of Connecticut (“UConn”).  He then used American Express card information that had been stolen from three victims to fund the two student accounts with a total of more than $62,000 in fraudulently obtained funds.  In early 2018, Alorwornu withdrew from the courses and requested that UConn refund the money he had deposited.  UConn subsequently transferred tens of thousands of dollars to bank accounts Alorwornu controlled.  The investigation revealed that the email accounts that Alorwornu used to defraud UConn were also used to commit fraud at other universities.

    The jury found Alorwornu guilty of two counts of wire fraud, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years on each count.  Judge Nagala scheduled sentencing for February 19.

    Alorwornu was arrested on February 1, 2023.  He is released on a $50,000 bond pending sentencing.

    This investigation has been conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the UConn Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Edward Chang and Elena Coronado.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Rosendale Introduces University Forced Vaccination Student Injury Mitigation Act

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Matt Rosendale (Montana)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Matt Rosendale (MT-02) introduced the University Forced Vaccination Student Injury Mitigation Act, which will require higher education institutions to pay the medical costs for any student who was required or is currently required to take a COVID-19 vaccine to attend classes and experienced an adverse reaction. The higher education institutions would lose all federal funds from the Department of Education if they do not comply with the requirements set out in the bill. The University Forced Vaccination Student Injury Mitigation Act is cosponsored by Congressman Eli Crane (AZ-02) and Congressman Bill Posey (FL-08), has received support from No College Mandates, and Dr. Joseph Marine who is Section Chief of Cardiology at Johns Hopkins Community Physicians.

    Washington Examiner published an exclusive article highlighting new legislation. You can see the story by clicking on the image below.

    “If you are not prepared to face the consequences, you should have never committed the act,” Rep. Rosendale said, “Colleges and universities forced students to inject themselves with an experimental vaccine knowing it was not going to prevent COVID-19 while potentially simultaneously causing life-threatening health defects like Guillian-Barre Syndrome and myocarditis. It is now time for schools to be held accountable for their brazen disregard for students’ health and pay for the issues they are responsible for causing.”

    “No student in the United States should face crippling medical costs because of an experimental vaccine their school forced them into receiving. We must hold institutions to account for continuing to inflict COVID-era idiocy on their student body, and that’s exactly what this bill would accomplish. I’m proud to be a cosponsor of this legislation to help rectify this unjustified overreach,” said Rep. Eli Crane.

    “College students were never at risk of severe injury or death from any variant of the COVID-19 virus and institutions of higher education had this data well in advance of mandating COVID-19 vaccines. Yet in the spring of 2021, college students were stripped of their fundamental right to bodily autonomy and informed consent when colleges imposed some of the most coercive and restrictive vaccination policies. Countless college students have been injured by COVID-19 vaccinations, and we are grateful that Representative Matthew Rosendale is introducing a new bill to hold colleges accountable for the injuries their unnecessary, unethical and unscientific policies have caused for without such legislation, these students and their families would have no other recourse,” said Lucia Sinatra, co-founder of No College Mandates.

    “COVID-19 vaccine mandates for college students were flawed policies that did not alter the course of the pandemic and were not needed to keep college campuses “safe.” I had to make efforts to prevent my own high school and college age children from receiving COVID-19 booster shots that they did not want or need. It seems reasonable to me that institutions that implemented such policies without a sound medical or scientific rationale should take responsibility for any proven medical harm that they caused,” said Joseph Marine, MD, MBA, FACC, FHRS, Section Chief of Cardiology, Johns Hopkins Community Physicians.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch Speaks with Woodstock Union High School Class at King Farm 

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)

    WOODSTOCK, VT — U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) today met with students from Woodstock Union High School about his work in Congress and the importance of civic engagement. While at King Farm, Senator Welch also met with the Vermont Land Trust (VLT) and discussed the introduction of new legislation led by the Vermont Congressional Delegation to extend the boundary of the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historic Park to include the King Farm, which is currently owned by VLT.  
    “Our kids in Vermont are smart, thoughtful, and engaged—they’re going to go on to do incredible work in our communities and change the world in the process. I’m always encouraged when I talk with our students,” said Senator Welch. “This community-based bill our Delegation is leading will conserve our state’s history and foster new educational partnerships for students in Woodstock and across Vermont.”  
    Senator Welch was joined by Tracy Zschau, President, Vermont Land Trust; Abby White, Vice President of Engagement, Vermont Land Trust; Pieter Bohen, Cotyledon Fund; and Jason Drebitko, Green Mountain Foundation.  
    View photos from the event below:

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: All Tasmanian public schools to be fully funded by the beginning of 2026

    Source: Australian Ministers for Education

    All Tasmanian public schools will be fully and fairly funded in 2026 following a historic bilateral agreement signed today by the Albanese and Rockliff Governments.

    The bilateral agreement formalises the Statement of Intent signed by both Governments in September and confirms all Tasmanian public schools will get to 100 per cent of the Schooling Resource Standard (SRS) from January 2026.

    Tasmania becomes the third state or territory to sign on to the Better and Fairer Schools Agreement, delivering record funding to its schools and introducing targeted reforms which will help Tasmanian students to catch up, keep up and finish school. 

    Under the agreement, the Albanese Government will invest an estimated additional $153.5 million from 2025 to 2029 in Tasmanian public schools.

    The Rockliff Government will increase its investment in schools by $195.9 million over the same period. Extra funding will be tied to literacy and numeracy, student wellbeing and workforce initiatives. 

    To meet this commitment additional new funding will be provided by the Tasmanian Government on top of commitments already announced in this year’s budget and the recent teachers wage agreement.

    This means the Commonwealth will increase its share of funding from 20 per cent to 21.25 per cent in January next year and to 22.5 per cent of the SRS from January 2026, and the Tasmanian Government will increase its funding share to at least 77.5 per cent of the SRS from 2026.

    Funding will be tied to reforms in the Better and Fairer Schools Agreement, including: 

    • Year 1 phonics and early years numeracy checks to identify students in the early years of school who need additional help.
    • Evidence-based teaching and targeted and intensive supports such as small-group or catch-up tutoring to help students who fall behind.
    • Accelerating the implementation of the school-based recommendations of Tasmania’s Lifting Literacy implementation plan, including a minimum schooling guarantee for reading across all schools in Tasmania.
    • Support for students to come to school ready to learn, including greater access to mental health supports.
    • Reducing absence at school by prioritising evidence-based approaches to improving attendance and strengthening re-engagement support programs.
    • Establishing and strengthening relationships and collaboration with Tasmanian Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations and First Nations peoples and communities within Tasmania to support increased cultural safety and responsiveness in the Tasmanian education system.
    • Support for VET specialist teachers and piloting incentive packages for attracting staff into remote and regional areas.

    The Tasmanian bilateral agreement can be accessed here. The BFSA Heads of Agreement can be accessed here. 

    This Agreement is reliant on the Better and Fairer Schools (Funding and Reform) Bill 2024 being passed by the Parliament.

    The Albanese Government has put a record $16 billion of additional investment for public schools on the table which, if accepted by all jurisdictions, would represent the biggest extra investment in public education by any Commonwealth government. 

    Quotes attributable to Minister for Education Jason Clare:

    “Five weeks ago, we signed a Statement of Intent to fully fund Tassie public schools no later than 2029.

    “Today’s agreement confirms that all Tassie public schools will start to receive full funding in just over 12 months – in January 2026. 

    “This is fantastic news for Tassie students and for public education it shows what can be done when governments work together. 

    “It shows that we can fully fund public schools and invest in the reforms that will make a real difference to the students who really need it.

    “This agreement means that all schools in Tasmania will be fully funded and that funding will be invested in reforms to help students catch up, keep up and finish school.

    “The agreements we have struck with Tasmania, WA and the Northern Territory are not blank cheques. Funding will be tied to real and practical reforms to deliver a better and fairer education system, which is what the signing of today’s Bilateral Agreement is all about.”

    Quotes attributable to Tasmanian Minister for Education Jo Palmer:

    “This is an historic milestone for Tasmanian Government schools, and we are really excited about what it means for our students and workforce. 

    “All Tasmanian schools will be fully funded from January 2026, which is nine years earlier than was initially proposed by the Federal Government. 

    “This will support our students to achieve the educational outcomes they need and deserve so they can lead their best lives.

    “We are committed to maximising the new investment delivered through this agreement and making sure it flows to our students and our schools and is used to lift educational outcomes.  

    “Our Government is already rolling out significant educational reform, for example through our Lifting Literacy initiative.

    “We are committed to further improving our education system and look forward to receiving the report of the Independent Review into Education in Tasmania, which is currently underway.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Murphy Announces Creation of Economic Council

    Source: US State of New Jersey

    TRENTON – Governor Murphy today signed an Executive Order establishing a new Economic Council, which will be supported by a newly established Development Coordination Committee. Under the executive order, the Economic Council will provide a regular forum for the business community and state government to discuss, collaborate, and solve issues important to the public and private sectors, and stimulate economic growth and prosperity. The new Development Coordination Committee will support the Council’s work in advancing development projects that require multiple state, county and local government approvals. 

    “The Economic Council will ensure that we continue to have a healthy collaboration between the business community and the state government,” said Governor Murphy. “Deepening our Administration’s strong relationship with various sectors across our state will stimulate growth within our economy. I look forward to the forum for ongoing dialogue, collaboration, and problem-solving to advance our shared economic goals.” 

    Since the beginning of the Murphy Administration, state officials have worked with legislative partners and industry stakeholders on policies to improve the role and function of the government in facilitating economic development. Since 2018, New Jersey has seen small businesses increase by over 40,000 or 19%, despite the effects of the global COVID-19 pandemic.

    The Economic Council’s co-chairs will be the Deputy Chief of Staff for Economic Growth and the Chief Executive Officer of the New Jersey Economic Development Authority. The co-chairs will designate representatives from industry to participate in working group discussions with the Council. Along with the co-chairs, the Council will also consist of the Governor’s Chief of Staff, Chief Counsel, Chief Policy Advisor, the State Treasurer; and the Executive Director of the Business Action Center, or their respective designees.

    “New Jersey’s economy has grown stronger under Governor Murphy’s leadership, and the Economic Council will build upon the progress we’ve made over the past seven years,” said NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan. “I’m honored to co-chair the Economic Council and look forward to working with our government partners and key stakeholders to help meet the ambitious economic goals of the administration.”

    “The establishment of the Economic Council is a giant step forward in Governor Murphy’s relationship with the business community,” said Deputy Chief of Staff for Economic Growth Eric Brophy. “Over the past several years, at the governor’s urging, we have made doing business in New Jersey easier. We learned early on that working closely with the business community and legislators is the best way to grow New Jersey’s economy. The Economic Council will further cultivate our ambition to make business in New Jersey less complicated.”

    “Addressing the future economy of our state is vitally important to unleashing our enormous economic potential – as is the need to generate additional organic, reliable revenue to fund our growing state budgets,” said Tom Bracken, President & CEO, New Jersey Chamber of Commerce. “The New Jersey Chamber of Commerce has been advocating for the creation of an economic council for many years to accomplish that goal. Today’s announcement, hopefully, will put in place a mechanism to bring together government and the business community to address collective thoughts and strategies to create a more vibrant, competitive economic landscape. With the Economic Council and Development Coordination Committee structure in place, it will now be up to its organizers to ensure it will quickly and effectively deliver the results we desperately need. We thank Gov. Murphy for creating this forum that we hope transcends administrations – and we look forward to working with the administration and being part of this opportunity.” 

    Within the Council, the Executive Order also establishes a Development Coordination Committee as a subcommittee that will focus on ways to streamline the intergovernmental review of complex development projects, improve communication amongst state, county and local government financing and permitting entities with respect to projects that require a coordinated review. This will enhance information sharing by and between government agencies and project developers.

    The Development Coordination Committee will consist of the Deputy Chief of Staff for Economic Growth; the State Treasurer; the Commissioners of the Departments of Community Affairs, Environmental Protection, and Transportation; and the Executive Directors of the EDA, New Jersey Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency, Schools Development Authority, and Infrastructure Bank, or their respective designees. The Committee will also be tasked with reporting to the Council on recommended policies, initiatives or reforms that may be undertaken to reduce barriers to development or construction project disruptions or delays.

    Read Executive Order No.369 here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Manchin Announces $12.3 Million From Appalachian Regional Commission For Seven West Virginia Projects

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for West Virginia Joe Manchin

    October 29, 2024

    Charleston, WV – Today, U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (I-WV), member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced $12,320,520 from the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) for seven projects in West Virginia. This statewide funding will support economic and workforce development, educational opportunities, and entrepreneurship.

    “The Appalachian Regional Commission is a longtime partner of the Mountain State and today’s announcement is proof of that. This investment of more than $12.3 million will bolster workforce and educational opportunities, healthcare, infrastructure and entrepreneurship for countless West Virginians,” said Senator Manchin. “As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I look forward to seeing the positive impacts of these projects and I remain dedicated to strengthening economic growth across Appalachia.”

    Individuals awards listed below:

    • $10,000,000 – American Association of Community Colleges
      • This funding will support creating a network for cybersecurity workforce development statewide.
    • $500,000 – Appalachian Regional Healthcare, Inc.
      • This funding will support developing a statewide plan for a health task force and pilot programs for mobile healthcare.
    • $500,000 – New River Conservancy
      • This funding will support developing a plan for an expansion of the New River Water Trail.
    • $500,000 – Teach for America
      • This funding will support expanding the recruitment and retention model for educators in West Virginia.
    • $418,000 – Grow Ohio Valley
      • This funding will be used to develop a plan to create a sustainable network of food and energy systems in West Virginia.
    • $212,800 – University of Pittsburgh
      • This funding will support developing a plan for biotech workforce development and engagement in West Virginia.
    • $189,720 – DRIVE (Driving Real Innovation for a Vibrant Economy)
      • This funding will support building an incubation network for small businesses and entrepreneurs in West Virginia.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Education – Chronic absence in schools doubled in last decade, current model not working

    Source: Education Review Office

    New research from the Education Review Office (ERO) has found that chronic absence in students has doubled in the last decade, and that the system for addressing this is ineffective and failing.
    In Term 2 this year, one in 10 students were chronically absent, with over 80,000 students missing more than three weeks of school during the term. Since 2015 chronic absence has doubled in secondary schools and nearly tripled in primary schools.
    “The number of students who are chronically absent from school is at crisis point and is damaging students’ futures,” says Ruth Shinoda, Head of ERO’s Education Evaluation Centre.
    “Over half of students who are chronically absent from school do not go on to achieve NCEA Level 2. They have higher rates of offending, are more likely to be victims of crime, and are more likely to live in social and emergency housing as adults. By age of 20, they cost the Government three times as much as students who go to school.”
    ERO found that despite the dedication of schools and Attendance Services, the current system to get these students back to school is not effective and needs substantial reform.
    “Action is too slow, and students fall through the gaps,” says Shinoda.
    “Half of schools do not refer students to Attendance Services and too often intervention is too late. Over half of school leaders and Attendance Service staff report there aren’t good options to enforce good attendance”.
    Attendance Services are passionate about helping students get back to school, but they are not set up to succeed. At services ERO visited, caseloads for Attendance Services varied from 30 to more than 500 cases, and funding has not increased to match the increased levels of chronic absence.
    “There is a lack of information sharing, which can make it very challenging and time consuming for Attendance Services to find absent students. Half of Attendance Services report information isn’t shared often across agencies, schools, and Attendance Services.”
    Schools play a critical role and need to be supported to do more to prevent students becoming absent and to help students when they get back to school.
    “We found that some schools are successful in reducing chronic absence even when faced with challenges,” says Shinoda.
    To reverse the trend of increasing chronic absence, ERO is recommending substantial reform that increases the focus on preventing students from becoming chronically absent, puts in place timely and effective targeted support, and does more to ensure students stay in school once they return. It will require additional funding that matches the level of need.
    “We must do more to prevent students missing out on their education. It will take parents and whānau, schools, and Government agencies all working together to fix it and get chronically absent students back to school and thriving,” says Shinoda. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI: Skyward Specialty Insurance Group Reports Third Quarter 2024 Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HOUSTON, Oct. 29, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Skyward Specialty Insurance Group, Inc. (Nasdaq: SKWD) (“Skyward Specialty” or the “Company”) today reported third quarter 2024 net income of $36.7 million, or $0.89 per diluted share, compared to $21.7 million, or $0.57 per diluted share, for the same 2023 period. Net income for the first nine months of 2024 was $104.4 million, or $2.53 per diluted share, compared to $56.7 million, or $1.50 per diluted share, for the same 2023 period.

    Adjusted operating income(1) for the third quarter of 2024 was $29.4 million, or $0.71 per diluted share, compared to $25.0 million, or $0.65 per diluted share, for the same 2023 period. Adjusted operating income(1) for the first nine months of 2024 was $93.4 million, or $2.26 per diluted share, compared to $56.5 million, or $1.49 per diluted share, for the same 2023 period.

    Highlights for the third quarter included:

    • Gross written premiums of $400.0 million an increase of 12.4% compared to the third quarter of 2023.
    • Combined ratio of 92.2% and ex-Cat combined ratio of 89.4% compared to 90.2% and 89.8%, respectively, for the third quarter of 2023.
    • Annualized return on equity of 19.1% through the first nine months of 2024 compared to 15.8% for the same 2023 period.
    • Book value per share of $19.89, an increase of 19% compared to December 31, 2023.
    (1)See “Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures”

    Skyward Specialty Chairman and CEO Andrew Robinson commented, “These past weeks have proven to be a very difficult time and our thoughts continue to be with those impacted by Hurricanes Helene and Milton; I am proud of the extraordinary efforts of our claims team and partners who continue to deliver exceptional service to our customers affected by these catastrophes.”

    “As for our third quarter, our results reflect our continued excellent execution of our “Rule our Niche” strategy, and our disciplined underwriting and our strategic risk management. Our adjusted operating income was up nearly 18% over the prior year quarter, continuing the trend of strong earnings growth we have delivered every quarter as a public company, and our 19.1% annualized return on equity year to date is outstanding. We delivered gross written premiums growth of 12.4% over the prior year quarter while continuing to increase our mix of business to areas that are less exposed to the P&C cycles. Given investments into our business, the momentum building in certain divisions, and with full consideration for the market backdrop, I am confident that we are well positioned to deliver strong growth as we look forward to the coming quarters.”

    Results of Operations

    Underwriting Results

    Premiums                        
    ($ in thousands)   Three months ended September 30,   Nine months ended September 30,
    unaudited     2024       2023     % Change     2024       2023     % Change
    Gross written premiums   $ 400,014     $ 355,732     12.4 %   $ 1,354,877     $ 1,138,224     19.0 %
    Ceded written premiums   $ (131,692 )   $ (75,036 )   75.5 %   $ (502,326 )   $ (441,650 )   13.7 %
    Net retention     67.1 %     78.9 %   NM (1)       62.9 %     61.2 %   NM (1)  
    Net written premiums   $ 268,322     $ 280,696     (4.4 )%   $ 852,551     $ 696,574     22.4 %
    Net earned premiums   $ 269,557     $ 227,033     18.7 %   $ 763,482     $ 604,211     26.4 %
    (1)Not meaningful                        
                             

    The increase in gross written premiums for the third quarter and first nine months of 2024, when compared to the same 2023 periods, was driven by double-digit premium growth primarily from our transactional E&S, programs, captives, surety and global property & agriculture underwriting divisions.

    During the third quarter and first nine months of 2023, the Company cancelled a quota share reinsurance contract. Excluding the impact of the cancellation, net written premiums for the third quarter and first nine months of 2024 increased 16.5%(2) and 32.0%(2), respectively, when compared to the same 2023 periods.

    Combined Ratio   Three months ended September 30,   Nine months ended September 30,
    (unaudited)   2024   2023   2024   2023
    Non-cat loss and LAE(1)   60.6 %   60.7 %   60.6 %   60.9 %
    Cat loss and LAE(1)   2.8 %   0.4 %   1.5 %   1.8 %
    Prior accident year development – LPT(2)   (0.1 )%   (0.1 )%   (0.1 )%   (0.2 )%
    Loss Ratio   63.3 %   61.0 %   62.0 %   62.5 %
    Net policy acquisition costs   13.9 %   15.0 %   13.9 %   13.0 %
    Other operating and general expenses   15.7 %   15.1 %   15.8 %   16.3 %
    Commission and fee income   (0.7 )%   (0.9 )%   (0.8 )%   (1.0 )%
    Expense ratio   28.9 %   29.2 %   28.9 %   28.3 %
    Combined ratio   92.2 %   90.2 %   90.9 %   90.8 %
    Ex-Cat Combined Ratio(3)   89.4 %   89.8 %   89.4 %   89.0 %
                     
    Adjusted Underwriting Ratios                
    Adjusted loss ratio(2)   63.4 %   61.1 %   62.1 %   62.7 %
    Expense ratio   28.9 %   29.2 %   28.9 %   28.3 %
    Adjusted combined ratio(2)   92.3 %   90.3 %   91.0 %   91.0 %
    (1)Current accident year
    (2)See “Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures”
    (3)Defined as the combined ratio excluding cat loss and LAE(1)            
                     

    The loss ratios for the third quarter and first nine months of 2024 increased 2.3 points and improved 0.5 points, respectively, when compared to the same 2023 periods. The third quarter of 2024 was impacted by higher catastrophe losses, primarily from Hurricanes Helene and Beryl.

    The expense ratios for the third quarter and first nine months of 2024 were comparable to the same 2023 periods.

    The expense ratios for all periods presented exclude the impact of IPO related stock compensation and secondary offering expenses, which are reported in other expenses in our condensed consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income.

    Investment Results

    Net Investment Income                
    $ in thousands   Three months ended September 30,   Nine months ended September 30,
    (unaudited)     2024       2023       2024     2023  
    Short-term investments & cash and cash equivalents   $ 4,537     $ 3,022     $ 13,645   $ 8,007  
    Fixed income     15,458       9,488       41,722     24,867  
    Equities     596       650       1,974     1,332  
    Alternative & strategic investments     (1,070 )     (71 )     2,615     (7,888 )
    Net investment income   $ 19,521     $ 13,089     $ 59,956   $ 26,318  
    Net unrealized gains (losses) on securities still held   $ 8,378     $ (6,391 )   $ 15,609   $ 2,394  
    Net realized gains     1,809       3,407       1,056     934  
    Net investment gains (losses)   $ 10,187     $ (2,984 )   $ 16,665   $ 3,328  
     

    Beginning January 1, 2024 we simplified the investment portfolio classifications to align with our strategy and the underlying risk characteristics of the portfolio. The prior period has been reclassified to conform to the current period presentation.

    Net investment income for the third quarter and first nine months of 2024 increased $6.4 million and $33.6 million, respectively when compared to the same 2023 periods, primarily driven by increased income from our fixed income portfolio and short-term investments due to higher yields and larger asset bases.

    Stockholders’ Equity

    Stockholders’ equity was $797.5 million at September 30, 2024 which represents an increase of 10.2% when compared to stockholders’ equity of $723.6 million at June 30, 2024. The increase in stockholders’ equity was primarily due to net income and an increase in the market value of our investment portfolio.

    Share Repurchase Authorization

    In October 2024, the Company’s Board of Directors authorized a share repurchase program authorizing the repurchase of up to $50.0 million of the Company’s common stock.

    Skyward Specialty Chairman and CEO Andrew Robinson commented, “The share repurchase program allows Skyward to opportunistically deploy our capital in an accretive fashion and ultimately drive long-term value creation for our shareholders. Given our strong cash position and financing flexibility, the repurchase program will not limit our ability to support our near-term growth or our flexibility to support ongoing investment in the key growth areas of our business, or to capture additional value creating opportunities.”

    The shares may be repurchased from time to time in open market purchases, privately-negotiated transactions, block purchases, accelerated share repurchase agreements or a combination of methods and pursuant to safe harbors provided by Rule 10b-18 and Rule 10b5-1 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. The timing, manner, price and amount of any repurchases under the share repurchase program will be determined by the Company in its discretion. The stock repurchase program does not require the Company to repurchase any specific number of shares, and may be modified, suspended or terminated at any time.

    Conference Call

    At 9:30 a.m. eastern time tomorrow, October 30, 2024, Skyward Specialty management will hold a conference call to discuss quarterly results with insurance industry analysts. Interested parties may listen to the discussion at investors.skywardinsurance.com under Events & Presentations. Additionally, investors can access the earnings call via conference call by registering via the conference link. Users will receive dial-in information and a unique PIN to join the call upon registering.

    Non-GAAP Financial Measures

    This release contains certain financial measures and ratios that are not required by, or presented in accordance with, generally accepted accounting principles in the United States (“GAAP”). We refer to these measures as “non-GAAP financial measures.” We use these non-GAAP financial measures when planning, monitoring, and evaluating our performance.

    We have chosen to exclude the net impact of the Loss Portfolio Transfer (“LPT”), all development on reserves fully or partially covered by the LPT and amortization of deferred gains associated with recoveries of prior LPT reserve strengthening in certain non-GAAP metrics, where noted, as the business subject to the LPT is not representative of our continuing business strategy. The business subject to the LPT is primarily related to policy years 2017 and prior, was generated and managed under prior leadership, and has either been exited or substantially repositioned during the reevaluation of our portfolio. We consider these non-GAAP financial measures to be useful metrics for our management and investors to facilitate operating performance comparisons from period to period. While we believe that these non-GAAP financial measures are useful in evaluating our business, this information should be considered supplemental in nature and is not meant to be a substitute for revenue or net income, in each case as recognized in accordance with GAAP. In addition, other companies, including companies in our industry, may calculate such measures differently, which reduces their usefulness as comparative measures. For more information regarding these non-GAAP financial measures and a reconciliation of such measures to comparable GAAP financial measures, see the section entitled “Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures.”

    About Skyward Specialty Insurance Group, Inc.

    Skyward Specialty is a rapidly growing and innovative specialty insurance company, delivering commercial property and casualty products and solutions on a non-admitted and admitted basis. The Company operates through eight underwriting divisions – Accident & Health, Captives, Global Property & Agriculture, Industry Solutions, Professional Lines, Programs, Surety and Transactional E&S. SKWD stock is traded on the Nasdaq Global Select Market, which represents the top fourth of all Nasdaq listed companies.

    Skyward Specialty’s subsidiary insurance companies consist of Houston Specialty Insurance Company, Imperium Insurance Company, Great Midwest Insurance Company, and Oklahoma Specialty Insurance Company. These insurance companies are rated A (Excellent) with stable outlook by A.M. Best Company. Additional information about Skyward Specialty can be found on our website at www.skywardinsurance.com.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    Except for historical information, all other information in this news release consists of forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The forward-looking statements are typically, but not always, identified through use of the words “believe,” “expect,” “enable,” “may,” “will,” “could,” “intends,” “estimate,” “anticipate,” “plan,” “predict,” “probable,” “potential,” “possible,” “should,” “continue,” and other words of similar meaning. These forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected, anticipated or implied. The most significant of these uncertainties are described in Skyward Specialty’s Form 10-K, and include (but are not limited to) legislative changes at both the state and federal level, state and federal regulatory rule making promulgations and adjudications, class action litigation involving the insurance industry and judicial decisions affecting claims, policy coverages and the general costs of doing business, the potential loss of key members of our management team or key employees and our ability to attract and retain personnel, the impact of competition on products and pricing, inflation in the costs of the products and services insurance pays for, product development, geographic spread of risk, weather and weather-related events, other types of catastrophic events, our ability to obtain reinsurance coverage at prices and on terms that allow us to transfer risk and adequately protect our company against financial loss, and losses resulting from reinsurance counterparties failing to pay us on reinsurance claims. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this release and the Company does not undertake any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information to reflect changes in assumptions, the occurrence of unanticipated events, or otherwise.

    Skyward Specialty Insurance Group, Inc.

    Investor contact:
    Natalie Schoolcraft,
    nschoolcraft@skywardinsurance.com
    614-494-4988

    or

    Media contact:
    Haley Doughty
    hdoughty@skywardinsurance.com
    713-935-4944

    Skyward Specialty Insurance Group, Inc.
    Consolidated Balance Sheets        
    ($ in thousands, except share and per share amounts)        
    (unaudited)   September 30, 2024   December 31, 2023
    Assets        
    Investments:        
    Fixed maturity securities, available-for-sale, at fair value (amortized cost of $1,359,700 and $1,047,713, respectively)   $ 1,357,500     $ 1,017,651  
    Fixed maturity securities, held-to-maturity, at amortized cost (net of allowance for credit losses of $239 and $329, respectively)     39,321       42,986  
    Equity securities, at fair value     124,719       118,249  
    Mortgage loans, at fair value     36,267       50,070  
    Equity method investments     102,111       110,653  
    Other long-term investments     23,802       3,852  
    Short-term investments, at fair value     206,358       270,226  
    Total investments     1,890,078       1,613,687  
    Cash and cash equivalents     105,573       65,891  
    Restricted cash     45,783       34,445  
    Premiums receivable, net     327,176       179,235  
    Reinsurance recoverables, net     686,725       596,334  
    Ceded unearned premium     236,962       186,121  
    Deferred policy acquisition costs     119,910       91,955  
    Deferred income taxes     18,502       21,991  
    Goodwill and intangible assets, net     87,607       88,435  
    Other assets     80,547       75,341  
    Total assets   $ 3,598,863     $ 2,953,435  
    Liabilities and stockholders’ equity        
    Liabilities:        
    Reserves for losses and loss adjustment expenses   $ 1,568,777     $ 1,314,501  
    Unearned premiums     692,452       552,532  
    Deferred ceding commission     44,984       37,057  
    Reinsurance and premium payables     200,967       150,156  
    Funds held for others     102,219       58,588  
    Accounts payable and accrued liabilities     73,001       50,880  
    Notes payable     100,000       50,000  
    Subordinated debt, net of debt issuance costs     18,956       78,690  
    Total liabilities     2,801,356       2,292,404  
    Stockholders’ equity        
    Common stock, $0.01 par value, 500,000,000 shares authorized, 40,099,931 and 39,863,756 shares issued and outstanding, respectively     401       399  
    Additional paid-in capital     716,095       710,855  
    Stock notes receivable     —       (5,562 )
    Accumulated other comprehensive loss     (1,703 )     (22,953 )
    Retained earnings (accumulated deficit)     82,714       (21,708 )
    Total stockholders’ equity     797,507       661,031  
    Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity   $ 3,598,863     $ 2,953,435  
             
    Skyward Specialty Insurance Group, Inc.
    Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income
    ($ in thousands)   Three months ended September 30,   Nine months ended September 30,
    (unaudited)     2024       2023       2024       2023  
                     
    Revenues:                
    Net earned premiums   $ 269,557     $ 227,033     $ 763,482     $ 604,211  
    Commission and fee income     1,818       2,085       5,897       5,817  
    Net investment income     19,521       13,089       59,956       26,318  
    Net investment gains (losses)     10,187       (2,984 )     16,665       3,328  
    Other loss     (195 )     —       (202 )     —  
    Total revenues     300,888       239,223       845,798       639,674  
    Expenses:                
    Losses and loss adjustment expenses     170,521       138,536       473,489       377,841  
    Underwriting, acquisition and insurance expenses     79,817       68,315       226,270       176,653  
    Interest expense     2,229       2,632       7,405       7,250  
    Amortization expense     351       463       1,099       1,336  
    Other expenses     1,117       1,482       3,350       4,061  
    Total expenses     254,035       211,428       711,613       567,141  
    Income before income taxes     46,853       27,795       134,185       72,533  
    Income tax expense     10,185       6,084       29,763       15,814  
    Net income     36,668       21,711       104,422       56,719  
    Net income attributable to participating securities     —       —       —       1,492  
    Net income attributable to common stockholders   $ 36,668     $ 21,711     $ 104,422     $ 55,227  
    Comprehensive income:                
    Net income   $ 36,668     $ 21,711     $ 104,422     $ 56,719  
    Other comprehensive income:                
    Unrealized gains and losses on investments:                
    Net change in unrealized gains (losses) on investments, net of tax     31,396       (8,722 )     24,527       (5,309 )
    Reclassification adjustment for losses on securities no longer held, net of tax     (1,963 )     (3,667 )     (3,277 )     (4,879 )
    Total other comprehensive income (loss)     29,433       (12,389 )     21,250       (10,188 )
    Comprehensive income   $ 66,101     $ 9,322     $ 125,672     $ 46,531  
                     
    Skyward Specialty Insurance Group, Inc.
    Share and Per Share Data                
    ($ in thousands, except share and per share amounts)   Three months ended September 30,   Nine months ended September 30,
    (unaudited)     2024       2023       2024       2023  
                     
    Weighted average basic shares     40,098,345       36,743,393       40,039,269       35,502,843  
    Weighted average diluted shares     41,428,557       38,403,843       41,302,108       37,830,431  
                     
    Basic earnings per share   $ 0.91     $ 0.59     $ 2.61     $ 1.56  
    Diluted earnings per share   $ 0.89     $ 0.57     $ 2.53     $ 1.50  
    Basic adjusted operating earnings per share   $ 0.73     $ 0.68     $ 2.33     $ 1.55  
    Diluted adjusted operating earnings per share   $ 0.71     $ 0.65     $ 2.26     $ 1.49  
                     
    Annualized ROE (1)     19.3 %     16.4 %     19.1 %     15.8 %
    Annualized adjusted ROE (2)     15.5 %     18.9 %     17.1 %     15.8 %
    Annualized ROTE (3)     21.8 %     19.7 %     21.7 %     19.4 %
    Annualized adjusted ROTE (4)     17.5 %     22.8 %     19.4 %     19.4 %
                     
                September 30   December 31
                  2024       2023  
                     
    Shares outstanding             40,099,931       39,863,756  
    Fully diluted shares outstanding             41,986,881       41,771,854  
                     
    Book value per share           $ 19.89     $ 16.72  
    Fully diluted book value per share           $ 18.99     $ 15.96  
    Fully diluted tangible book value per share           $ 16.91     $ 13.84  
                     
    (1)Annualized ROE is net income expressed on an annualized basis as a percentage of average beginning and ending stockholders’ equity during the period
    (2)Annualized adjusted ROE is adjusted operating income expressed on an annualized basis as a percentage of average beginning and ending stockholders’ equity during the period
    (3)Annualized ROTE is net income expressed on an annualized basis as a percentage of average beginning and ending tangible stockholders’ equity during the period
    (4)Annualized adjusted ROTE is adjusted operating income expressed on an annualized basis as a percentage of average beginning and ending tangible stockholders’ equity during the period

    Skyward Specialty Insurance Group, Inc.
    Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures

    Adjusted operating income – We define adjusted operating income as net income excluding the impact of certain items that may not be indicative of underlying business trends, operating results, or future outlook, net of tax impact. We use adjusted operating income as an internal performance measure in the management of our operations because we believe it gives our management and other users of our financial information useful insight into our results of operations and our underlying business performance. Adjusted operating income should not be viewed as a substitute for net income calculated in accordance with GAAP, and other companies may define adjusted operating income differently.        

    ($ in thousands) Three months ended September 30,   Nine months ended September 30,
    (unaudited)   2024       2023       2024       2023  
      Pre-tax   After-tax   Pre-tax   After-tax   Pre-tax   After-tax   Pre-tax   After-tax
    Income as reported $ 46,853     $ 36,668     $ 27,795     $ 21,711     $ 134,185     $ 104,422     $ 72,533     $ 56,719  
    Less (add):                              
    Net investment gains (losses)   10,187       8,048       (2,984 )     (2,357 )     16,665       13,165       3,328       2,629  
    Net impact of loss portfolio transfer   318       251       266       210       800       632       970       766  
    Other loss   (195 )     (154 )     —       —       (202 )     (160 )     —       —  
    Other expenses   (1,117 )     (882 )     (1,482 )     (1,171 )     (3,350 )     (2,647 )     (4,061 )     (3,208 )
    Adjusted operating income $ 37,660     $ 29,405     $ 31,995     $ 25,029     $ 120,272     $ 93,432     $ 72,296     $ 56,532  
                                   


    Quota Share Reinsurance Cancellation     Reconciliation – to exclude the impact of the cancellation of a quota share reinsurance contract on ceded written premiums, net retention, net written premiums and net earned premiums for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023:

      Three months ended September 30,
        2024       2023     %
    (unaudited) As Reported   As Reported   Adjustment   Adjusted   Change
    Ceded written premiums $ (131,692 )   $ (75,036 )   $ (50,462 )   $ (125,498 )   4.9 %
    Net retention   67.1 %     78.9 %         64.7 %   NM (1)
    Net written premiums $ 268,322     $ 280,696     $ (50,462 )   $ 230,234     16.5 %
    Net earned premiums $ 269,557     $ 227,033     $ (13,145 )   $ 213,888     26.0 %
                       
      Nine months ended September 30,
        2024       2023     %
      As Reported   As Reported   Adjustment   Adjusted   Change
    Ceded written premiums $ (502,326 )   $ (441,650 )   $ (50,462 )   $ (492,112 )   2.1 %
    Net retention   62.9 %             56.8 %   NM (1)
    Net written premiums $ 852,551     $ 696,574     $ (50,462 )   $ 646,112     32.0 %
    Net earned premiums $ 763,482     $ 604,211     $ (13,145 )   $ 591,066     29.2 %
                       
    (1)Not meaningful                  
                       


    Underwriting income     – We define underwriting income as net income before income taxes excluding net investment income, net realized and unrealized gains and losses on investments, impairment charges, interest expense, amortization expense and other income and expenses. Underwriting income represents the pre-tax profitability of our underwriting operations and allows us to evaluate our underwriting performance without regard to investment income. We use this metric as we believe it gives our management and other users of our financial information useful insight into our underlying business performance. Underwriting income should not be viewed as a substitute for pre-tax income calculated in accordance with GAAP, and other companies may define underwriting income differently.

    ($ in thousands)   Three months ended September 30,   Nine months ended September 30,
    (unaudited)     2024       2023       2024     2023
    Income before federal income tax expense   $ 46,853     $ 27,795     $ 134,185     $ 72,533
    Add:                
    Interest expense     2,229       2,632       7,405       7,250
    Amortization expense     351       463       1,099       1,336
    Other expenses     1,117       1,482       3,350       4,061
    Less:                
    Net investment income     19,521       13,089       59,956       26,318
    Net investment gains (losses)     10,187       (2,984 )     16,665       3,328
    Other loss     (195 )     —       (202 )     —
    Underwriting income   $ 21,037     $ 22,267     $ 69,620     $ 55,534
                     


    Adjusted Loss Ratio / Adjusted Combined Ratio     – We define adjusted loss ratio and adjusted combined ratio as the corresponding ratio (calculated in accordance with GAAP), excluding losses and LAE related to the LPT and all development on reserves fully or partially covered by the LPT and amortization of deferred gains associated with recoveries of prior LPT reserve strengthening. We use these adjusted ratios as internal performance measures in the management of our operations because we believe they give our management and other users of our financial information useful insight into our results of operations and our underlying business performance. Our adjusted loss ratio and adjusted combined ratio should not be viewed as substitutes for our loss ratio and combined ratio, respectively.

    ($ in thousands)   Three months ended September 30,   Nine months ended September 30,
    (unaudited)     2024       2023       2024       2023  
    Net earned premiums   $ 269,557     $ 227,033     $ 763,482     $ 604,211  
                     
    Losses and LAE     170,521       138,536       473,489       377,841  
    Less: Pre-tax net impact of LPT     (318 )     (266 )     (800 )     (970 )
    Adjusted losses and LAE   $ 170,839     $ 138,802     $ 474,289     $ 378,811  
                     
    Loss ratio     63.3 %     61.0 %     62.0 %     62.5 %
    Less: net impact of LPT   (0.1 )%   (0.1 )%   (0.1 )%   (0.2 )%
    Adjusted loss ratio     63.4 %     61.1 %     62.1 %     62.7 %
                     
    Combined ratio     92.2 %     90.2 %     90.9 %     90.8 %
    Less: net impact of LPT   (0.1 )%   (0.1 )%   (0.1 )%   (0.2 )%
    Adjusted combined ratio     92.3 %     90.3 %     91.0 %     91.0 %
                     

    Tangible Stockholders’ Equity – We define tangible stockholders’ equity as stockholders’ equity less goodwill and intangible assets. Our definition of tangible stockholders’ equity may not be comparable to that of other companies and should not be viewed as a substitute for stockholders’ equity calculated in accordance with GAAP. We use tangible stockholders’ equity internally to evaluate the strength of our balance sheet and to compare returns relative to this measure.

    ($ in thousands)   September 30,   December 31,
    (unaudited)   2024   2023   2023
    Stockholders’ equity   $ 797,507   $ 535,397   $ 661,031
    Less: Goodwill and intangible assets     87,607     88,808     88,435
    Tangible stockholders’ equity   $ 709,900   $ 446,589   $ 572,596
                 

    Skyward Specialty Insurance Group, Inc.
    Gross Written Premiums by Underwriting Division (Unaudited)

        Three months ended September 30,   Nine months ended September 30,
    ($ in thousands)   2024   2023   % Change   2024   2023   % Change
    Global Property & Agriculture   $ 54,360   $ 48,775   11.5 %   $ 279,721   $ 247,195   13.2 %
    Industry Solutions     74,089     79,798   (7.2 )%     236,460     226,680   4.3 %
    Captives     53,630     41,886   28.0 %     184,137     127,249   44.7 %
    Programs     54,434     41,735   30.4 %     166,256     143,032   16.2 %
    Transactional E&S     44,885     30,699   46.2 %     132,791     90,948   46.0 %
    Accident & Health     43,490     39,554   10.0 %     128,479     112,819   13.9 %
    Professional Lines     40,310     48,259   (16.5 )%     120,655     114,420   5.4 %
    Surety     34,816     24,977   39.4 %     106,395     75,899   40.2 %
    Total gross written premiums(1)   $ 400,014   $ 355,683   12.5 %   $ 1,354,894   $ 1,138,242   19.0 %
    (1)Excludes exited business                        

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Tech – AST Reygar Unveils New User-Friendly Website to Streamline Access to Industry-Leading Vessel Monitoring Solutions

    Source: AST Reygar

    Revamped Website Puts Spotlight on Award-Winning BareFLEET System,  
    Enhancing Support for Maritime Efficiency and Compliance

    AST Reygar, a leader in vessel monitoring and fleet management solutions, is excited to announce the launch of its redesigned, user-friendly website, now live at www.ast-reygar.com. The revamped website enhances accessibility and provides a streamlined platform for industry professionals to explore AST Reygar’s cutting-edge solutions, including its award-winning fleet monitoring system, BareFLEET.

    Built with a focus on simplicity and ease of navigation, the new AST Reygar website offers an intuitive experience, allowing users to seamlessly access information on the company’s advanced technologies, case studies, latest news and insights, and comprehensive customer support resources

    BareFLEET: Industry-Leading Vessel Monitoring for Operational Excellence

    At the heart of AST Reygar’s offering is BareFLEET, an award winning, remote monitoring and reporting system designed to optimise fleet performance, reduce operating costs, and help to support informed decision-making. Trusted by operators globally, BareFLEET provides unparalleled insights into fuel consumption, engine health, vessel motion monitoring, and emissions management, enhancing vessel efficiency and reducing environmental impacts.

    “Through BareFLEET, our clients are equipped with real-time data that’s instrumental in improving operational efficiency and compliance. With the launch of our new website, we’re making it even easier for users to access the tools and support they need to operate their fleets effectively.” Said Daniel Clark, General Manager – Director at AST Reygar.

    A New Digital Experience for Clients and Partners
    The new AST Reygar website reflects the company’s commitment to providing exceptional service to the maritime sector, by offering easy access to product information, client success stories, and resources for technical support. Features include:

    Detailed Product Pages: Comprehensive overviews of AST Reygar’s offerings, including BareFLEET.

    Client Case Studies: Real-world examples demonstrating how AST Reygar solutions support fleet efficiency and environmental compliance.

    Enhanced Support Centre: Dedicated resources and direct contact options to ensure clients have access to responsive, ongoing support.  

    About AST Reygar

    AST Reygar is a leading prover of remote monitoring and fleet management solutions, providing maritime operators worldwide with innovative tools that improve efficiency, safety, and compliance. With BareFLEET as its flagship system, AST Reygar continues to deliver award-winning technology that empowers clients to make data-driven decisions and promotes a sustainable future for maritime operations.

    AST Reygar is part of AST Networks, and a leading provider of innovative solutions for the maritime industry, dedicated to enhancing fuel efficiency and operational performance through cutting-edge technology. 

     For more information, please visit www.ast-reygar.com

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Durbin Questions Witnesses During Senate Judiciary Committee Field Hearing In Chicago On Reducing Prescription Drug Costs

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin
    10.29.24
    CHICAGO – U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee, today questioned witnesses during the Senate Judiciary Committee field hearing in Chicago, Illinois, entitled “Reducing Prescription Drug Prices:  How Competition Can Make Medications Affordable for Patients.” The hearing included two witness panels, including Members of Congress from Illinois and advocates for prescription drug pricing reform, to examine recent legislative successes to address anti-competitive tactics that make medications unaffordable for patients.
    Durbin first questioned Dr. Anthony D. Douglas II, General Surgery Resident at the University of Chicago, about the Medicare negotiation of Jardiance, a medication to treat people with diabetes, including his father. Jardiance’s manufacturer steadily raised the drug’s price over the last five years, from around $450 to nearly $600 for a 30-day supply.  Under the Inflation Reduction Act, Medicare is finally able to negotiate the price it pays for certain prescription drugs, including Jardiance. And the Biden-Harris Administration was able to negotiate the price for Jardiance down to $197 per month—a 66 percent discount.
    “Tell me what that price reduction means to your patients?” Durbin asked.
    Dr. Douglas responded that having this necessary medicine reduced in price will mean “saving lives” thanks to the Biden-Harris Administration.
    Durbin then asked Dr. Douglas about direct-to-consumer (DTC) drug advertising.  The pharmaceutical industry spends $6 billion per year to flood the airwaves with direct-to-consumer drug ads.  Durbin and Senator Chuck Grassley (R-IA) introduced the Drug-price Transparency for Consumers (DTC) Act, a bill that would require price disclosures on advertisements for prescription drugs, in order to empower patients and reduce excess spending on medications.
    “It strikes me that there are a handful of drugs which we are bombarded with when it comes to advertising—you cannot watch a football game or anything on your television without getting an ad for a drug… The fact that we can pronounce and even spell Xarelto is proof positive that we have been trained by these ads.  I am assuming and tell me if I’m wrong, that the pharmaceutical companies basically decided if we can convince the ultimate consumer to go into the doctor’s office and say, ‘I need this’ or whatever it happens to be, that the doctor is going to prescribe it as opposed to questioning whether or not it is necessary or if there is an affordable generic.  Is that true?”  Durbin asked.
    Dr. Douglas responded that he believes that is the drug companies’ strategy when targeting consumers through DTC ads.  He continued to say, “Not only do they advertise directly to physicians to prescribe the medications but also patients to go into the clinics and hospitals to ask,” for example, Ozempic. 
      Durbin also asked Dr. Michael Sandsmark, Director of Pharmacy, Iroquois Memorial Hospital (IMH), about the long wait lines at pharmacies, including at Walgreens, and even closures. 
    Dr. Sandsmark responded that there, “is a lot of burnout” among pharmacists right now and corporations are having trouble finding staff.  Dr. Sandsmark also commented on the rigorous and expensive price of pharmacy school and training.  
    Durbin then asked Rachel Sachs, Professor of Law, Washington University in St. Louis, and Kwame Raoul, Attorney General, State of Illinois, about pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs)—middlemen that manage drug benefits for insurance plans. 
    Dr. Sachs responded, “we should think broadly about opportunities at the federal level and state level for PBM reform.”  In February 2024, Attorney General Raoul along with 38 other attorneys general, sent a letter to Congress expressing support for reforming how PBMs operate.  In June, he joined an amicus brief asking the U.S. Supreme Court to take up a case addressing the states’ authority to regulate PBMs.
    Durbin then asked Dr. Sachs about claims from the pharmaceutical industry and its allies that the Inflation Reduction Act’s common-sense reform to enable Medicare to negotiate for lower prices will “freeze innovation,” and potentially prevent new drugs from coming to the market.  The cancer drug Keytruda had $25 billion in sales last year.  The revenue for this single medication is on par with what Mastercard or the McDonald’s Corporation earn per year.
    “How can it possibly be that a penny less in profit to Big Pharma will stifle innovation?” Durbin asked.
    Dr. Sachs responded, “in my view, what we really care about is the value of innovation to patients.  It is about delivering real [and] new clinical value and reforms that preserve and protect that value rather than the amount of innovation are what matters.”
    Durbin then asked Dr. Douglas about pharmaceutical companies often spending more in sales and marketing than on research and development.  Dr. Douglas responded he is aware of the uneven spending.  He continued to say we need to put profits over people.  In 2020, Johnson & Johnson spent nearly twice as much on sales and marketing—$22 billion—as it spent on R&D. 
    Video of Durbin’s questions in Committee is available here.
    Audio of Durbin’s questions in Committee is available here.
    Footage of Durbin’s questions in Committee is available here for TV Stations.
    The United States has the highest prescription drug prices in the developed world, on average nearly four times higher than what other countries pay for some of the most common brand-name medications. Despite claims that these prices are necessary to fund research and development into the next generation of drugs, research suggests that the majority of innovation is driven by smaller companies, as well as taxpayer funding through the National Institutes of Health. The Committee has jurisdiction over competition issues and the intellectual property system, which play critical roles in incentivizing true innovation and protecting a healthy market that keeps prices for prescription drugs within reach of the patients that need them.
    Durbin, Senate Democrats, and the Biden-Harris Administration have taken numerous steps to lower the costs of prescription drugs. Democrats’ Inflation Reduction Actprovided the Administration the authority to negotiate drug prices with Big Pharma, which has already resulted in price reduction of up to 79 percent for 10 of the most expensive and frequently-dispensed prescription drugs for seniors.
    Earlier this Congress, a package of bills advanced unanimously out of the Committee to lower prescription drug prices and are awaiting a vote in the full Senate, including the Interagency Patent Coordination and Improvement Act introduced by U.S. Senators Dick Durbin (D-IL) and Thom Tillis (R-NC).
    Additionally, Durbin held a full committee hearing in May that scrutinized pharmaceutical companies’ abuse of the Orange Book and examined prescription drug prices, competition, and how to ensure medications are accessible and affordable for patients.
    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Internationally renowned mental health researcher Professor Helen Christensen AO named NSW Scientist of the Year

    Source: New South Wales Premiere

    Published: 30 October 2024

    Released by: The Premier, Minister for Innovation, Science and Technology

    Scientia Professor Helen Christensen AO from UNSW Sydney and the Black Dog Institute is being recognised as the NSW Scientist of the Year in the 2024 Premier’s Prizes for Science & Engineering.

    Professor Christensen is one of 10 exceptional researchers, innovators, and educators being honoured at the Premier’s Prizes for Science & Engineering, held at Government House in Sydney tonight.

    Professor Christensen’s selection as Scientist of the Year is in recognition of her pioneering work in digital mental health research, which has significantly influenced mental health care practice both in Australia and internationally.

    In 2000, she developed the digital intervention program, MoodGYM, to reduce depression in young people, which has been used by millions of people across more than 160 countries.

    She served as the Executive Director and Chief Scientist at the Black Dog Institute from 2011 to 2021, while her work creating a model of suicide prevention has been incorporated into national and state suicide prevention plans.

    She will receive a trophy and $60,000 in prize money.

    Nine category winners are also being announced tonight, each receiving a trophy and $5,000 in prize money:

    • Excellence in Mathematics, Earth Sciences, Chemistry or Physics
      Professor Susan Coppersmith, UNSW Sydney
    • Excellence in Biological Sciences (Ecological, environmental, agricultural and organismal) Distinguished Professor Ian Paulsen, Macquarie University
    • Excellence in Medical Biological Sciences (Cell and molecular, medical, veterinary and genetics)
      Professor Stuart Tangye, Garvan Institute of Medical Research
    • Excellence in Engineering or Information and Communications Technologies
      Distinguished Professor Willy Susilo, University of Wollongong
    • NSW Early Career Researcher of the Year (Biological Sciences)
      Dr Ira Deveson, Garvan Institute of Medical Research
    • NSW Early Career Researcher of the Year (Physical Sciences) –
      Dr. Jiayan Liao, University of Technology Sydney
    • Leadership in Innovation in NSW
      Distinguished Professor Karu Esselle, University of Technology Sydney
    • Innovation in NSW Public Sector Science and Engineering
      Dr Annette Cowie, NSW Department of Primary Industries and University of New England
    • Innovation in Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics Teaching in NSW
      Jodie Attenborough, Tottenham Central School

    Full details of all winners can be found at:

    NSW Premier’s Prizes for Science & Engineering | Chief Scientist

    Premier Chris Minns said:

    “These awards are about recognising and thanking our state’s most outstanding scientists, engineers, and teachers.  

    “Professor Christensen’s work has helped millions of people worldwide.

    “Her online self-help courses to help address common mental health disorders have been pioneering.

    “Mental health support is vital for so many people. Professor Christensen has improved support for people in NSW, and people around the world.

    “Mental health is one of the pressing challenges of our time, and Professor Christensen’s innovations have made an important impact.”

    Minister for Innovation, Science and Technology Anoulack Chanthivong said:

    “Tonight is the NSW Government’s chance to recognise some of the leaders from NSW’s world-class research and innovation community.

    “We celebrate not only research excellence, but visionary work that is driving the establishment of new high-tech companies to tackle some of our state’s most difficult problems.”

    NSW Chief Scientist & Engineer Hugh Durrant-Whyte said:

    “Tonight, we celebrate leading thinkers in areas as diverse as quantum physics, synthetic biology, immunology, cybersecurity and satellite telecommunications.

    “We acknowledge the work of established senior academics as well as lauding the contributions of our best early career researchers.

    “My congratulations to everyone honoured tonight, and especially to 2024 Scientist of the Year, Professor Helen Christensen, for her profound impact in the critically important area of mental health.”   

    2024 NSW Scientist of the Year Professor Helen Christensen said:

    “I’m deeply honoured to receive this award from the NSW Government.

    “It’s exciting to see this recognition for scientific work in mental health—an issue now seen globally as the leading health concern, even surpassing cancer, obesity and COVID.

    “Mental health science has the power to transform lives. We’re at a tipping point, where advancements in genetics, AI, and software engineering, are reshaping our understanding of mental illness, the impact of societal factors, and how technology delivers proven treatments to those who need them.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: New insights from Shakespeare’s England reveal striking parallels to contemporary climate change

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Madeline Bassnett, Professor of Early Modern English Literature, Western University

    Unprecedented storms and devastating drought. Flash floods and wildfires ignited by the air’s dry heat. This is the experience for many in our modern world. But it was also the experience for those living amid England’s Little Ice Age.

    The Little Ice Age is a period from around 1300 to 1850, when global temperatures dropped significantly. While the exact cause of this phenonemon is unknown, theories range from volcanic eruptions to European colonization of the Americas.

    Our research into England’s Little Ice Age during the 16th and 17th centuries has unearthed more than 1,800 unique pieces of weather observations, hidden in documents like diaries and letters. Local and national chronicles embedded reports of extreme weather among accounts of war and monarchs. Extreme weather pamphlets publicized tragic effects of earthquakes, floods and storms, much like our media today.

    Our team has created an open access database called the Weather Extremes in England’s Little Ice Age 1500-1700. This database visually maps both extreme and temperate weather in the age of Shakespeare and can help to advance modern climate science.

    More fundamentally, these experiential accounts provide a fascinating window into a world not too different from our own. While the causes of the climate change of today are well known, and likely different from that of the Little Ice Age, the experiences of living through both events are at times eerily similar. Understanding these past experiences can help us to better understand our present day and to develop more robust policies in the here and now.



    Read more:
    The Canadian Arctic shows how understanding the effects of climate change requires long-term vision

    Frosts and freezes

    Frost fairs on the River Thames have become a familiar cultural reference point for England’s Little Ice Age. Our data shows that the river froze over a mere four times in the 16th century — in 1516, 1537, 1564 and 1590 — and there were only intermittent observations of unusual cold or snow.

    The 17th century was markedly different. Reports of cold came thick and fast, with the exception of a few years between 1620 and 1643.

    Title page from The Great Frost: ‘Cold doings in London, except it be at the lotterie. With newes out of the country. A familiar talk betwene a country-man and a citizen touching this terrible frost and the great lotterie, and the effects of them.’ Printed at London: For Henry Gosson, 1608. Attributed to Thomas Dekker.
    (Houghton Library, Harvard University)

    This was the century of frost fairs on the Thames. With the first 17th century fair in 1608, these events were celebrated by English playwright Thomas Dekker in his pamphlet The Great Frost.

    Drinking, barbering and games were on display as London’s citizens marvelled at the novelty of entertainment on the ice. The freezes were frequent enough to become an institution.

    By the winter of 1683-1684, the frost fair had become a city within a city, expanding across the ice with avenues of booths, bear and bull-baiting rings and boats-turned-chariots pulled by enterprising watermen across the now solid river.

    But these iconic events were just one aspect of Little Ice Age weather in England.

    Storms and floods

    In the 16th century, severe rain storms were far more common than cold snaps.

    On Oct. 5, 1570, “a terrible tempest of wind and raine” caused flooding from Lincolnshire to London as rivers overflowed their banks, drowning towns, fields, crops and cattle. Storm surges inundated the coastline.

    Four years later, towns from Newport to St. Ives suffered “raging floods,” and a “giant sea fish” (whale) washed up in the Thames from a massive surge up river. In May 1594, “soddane showres of haile [and] raine” destroyed houses, iron mills, crops and cattle in Sussex and Surrey. September of that year saw another deluge, with bridges taken down in Cambridge and Ware.

    This all changed in the 17th century, following the Great Flood that struck Bristol and surrounding areas in 1607. Extreme cold spells then became more frequent, and major storm events were less common. The winter of 1612-1613 saw a number of violent storms recorded in the pamphlet Wonders of this Windie Winter, with livestock lost from Newcastle to Dover and bodies from shipwrecks washing aground in the Thames.

    In the next 40 years, though, only the years of 1626 and 1637 contain reports of significant storm events causing loss of life or livestock. Instead of extreme storms, this century was marked more by regular but moderate rainfall, consistent with colder, wetter conditions normally associated with the Little Ice Age.

    Fire and heat

    If colder, wetter weather was a new normal for 17th century Britons, the hot, dry spring of 1666 caught Londoners unprepared. The Great Fire of London was one of the worst disasters of the age, and diarist John Evelyn recounts that “the heate … had even ignited the aire,” a comment reminiscent of descriptions of wildfire spread today.

    Yet periods of extreme heat were surprisingly frequent during the previous century, especially in the England that Shakespeare knew. More than a dozen droughts were recorded across England in the 16th century, usually broken by extreme storms or floods. It never rained, it seems, but it poured. The Thames dried up completely in 1592.

    As Thomas Short wrote in his Chronological History of English Weather, “an excessive drought, great death of cattle from want of water; springs and brooks were dried up; horsemen could ride the Thames.” Locals went into the mud to retrieve items long lost to the river.

    Shakespeare’s hometown of Stratford-upon-Avon was nearly destroyed by fire twice, in 1594 and 1595, due to severe drought and heat. The warning signs were there for Londoners to beware of hot spells in the next century, but frost fairs and wet weather may have bred complacency.

    Lessons for today

    The Weather Extremes in England’s Little Ice Age 1500-1700 database is revealing a picture of the world of Shakespeare and early modern England that upends a simplified picture of the Little Ice Age. More than just a world of frosts and freezes, the English Little Ice Age could be known as well as an age of fire and rain.



    Read more:
    The B.C. election could decide the future of the province’s species at risk laws

    The documents in our database are the reports of people who lived in a climatically changing world and saw its shifts firsthand. It shows how important weather crowd-sourcing can be, even centuries later. Contemporary projects like the Community Collaborative Rain, Hail and Snow Network, or the Northern Tornadoes Project, continue in the spirit of this work.

    But our data could also provide insight into today’s extreme weather. Historical flooding patterns might provide reference points to better manage and understand the unstable weather experienced in the British Isles today.

    Madeline Bassnett has received funding from SSHRC for the Weather Extremes in England’s Little Ice Age 1500-1700 project.

    Laurie Johnson 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. New insights from Shakespeare’s England reveal striking parallels to contemporary climate change – https://theconversation.com/new-insights-from-shakespeares-england-reveal-striking-parallels-to-contemporary-climate-change-240755

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Bennet, Hickenlooper, Neguse, Pettersen, Polis Welcome $129 Million for Rail Projects in Colorado

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Colorado Michael Bennet

    Photos from Press Conference HERE 

    Denver — Colorado U.S. Senators Michael Bennet and John Hickenlooper, U.S. Representatives Joe Neguse and Brittany Pettersen, and Governor Jared Polis welcomed over $129.5 million from the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) for four Colorado rail projects. The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT), Colorado State University (CSU) Pueblo, San Luis Central Railroad, and OmniTRAX will all receive funding as part of DOT’s Consolidated Rail Infrastructure & Safety Improvements Grant Program, funded in part through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. The leaders held a press conference on Tuesday in Westminster, Colorado, to celebrate this announcement.

    “Colorado’s railways are vital to connect our communities and get resources to markets across the country. That’s why I ensured the U.S. Department of Transportation understood how critical this funding is for our state’s transportation infrastructure,” said Bennet. “I’m glad to have helped secure these investments in our railways’ safety, efficiency, and reliability across the state. ”

    “From freight in the San Luis Valley to passengers on the Front Range and beyond with CSU Pueblo’s research, rail isn’t just a part of our past, it’s a big part of our future, too,” said Hickenlooper. “That’s the case we made to Secretary Buttigieg for this funding and this is just the start.” 

    “After years of working to secure federal support for the Front Range Passenger Rail Project, I am excited to see the Department of Transportation heed our calls and commit to modernizing Colorado’s passenger rail system—not just for communities along the Front Range but for residents throughout the entire state. This is a once-in-a-generation investment in our passenger rail infrastructure, creating countless new opportunities for communities to connect, grow, and thrive—and we will continue to work together to ensure this momentum leads to lasting benefits for all Coloradans,” said Neguse.

    “Today, I am incredibly grateful to see this federal funding coming to Colorado to strengthen our railway systems, enhance safety, and modernize our infrastructure,” said Pettersen. “After a train derailment in Boulder injured workers and put our communities at risk, I supported funding to reinforce public safety and restore trust in Colorado’s rail infrastructure. I’m pleased to see these federal dollars coming to our state to help ensure we have safe, reliable infrastructure for generations to come.”

    “Today’s grant will make freight rail traffic in some of our busiest growing communities safer quickly while providing critical building blocks for Passenger Rail.  This major funding will help achieve important priorities like complying with longstanding federal standards and improving the safety of rail crossings, which can be the sites of dangerous incidents. With more than $66 million in federal support from the Biden-Harris administration, the future of Colorado’s rail network is a clear priority for the federal government, as it should be. We thank Senators Hickenlooper and Bennet, Congressman Neguse and Congresswoman Pettersen, and our communities for their support of this important project,” said Polis.

    This funding includes:

    • $66.4 million for CDOT to modernize Front Range rail. This investment will help CDOT design, install, and test train operation and safety improvements, including Positive Train Control (PTC) and railroad crossings;
    • $50.5 million for OmniTRAX transportation safety and employment. This investment will help design and construct replacement railroad ties across Omnitrax short lines;
    • $11.6 million for CSU Pueblo to research renewable energy for rail vehicles. This investment will aid research and development of alternative fuel rail transportation, including safety experiments on the use of CH2/CNG-powered rail cars at the facility; and
    • $1 million for San Luis Central Railroad to replace wooden ties. This investment will help replace deteriorated cross and switch ties to ensure safety along the SLC corridor.

    “Southern Colorado often represents a hard-working spirit leveraging the opportunity of innovation. This Department of Transportation CRISI grant emboldens that spirit, enabling CSU Pueblo, in partnership with the Southern Colorado Transportation Technology Center (SCITT), to contribute to the future of rail transportation through critical safety research in hydrogen and natural gas technologies. I am particularly proud of how this project will partner with our Engineering program at CSU Pueblo, utilizing the expertise here to create new pathways for our students and local workforce. This grant is more than research – it’s a valuable investment into Southern Colorado,” said Armando Valdez, President, CSU Pueblo.

    “TIES2 will be transformative for the communities served by Great Western Railway of Colorado and the regions served by OmniTRAX railroads in Georgia, Alabama, and Washington state,” said David Arganbright, Senior Vice President, OmniTRAX. “OmniTRAX is proud to call Colorado home, and we are tremendously appreciative of all the work that Sen. Hickenlooper has done in Congress to champion Colorado’s railways and deliver the critical infrastructure investments that strengthen our nation’s supply chains.”

    Earlier this year, Bennet, Hickenlooper, Neguse and Pettersen urged the DOT to fund CDOT’s project along the Front Range.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Gartner Survey Shows 85% of Learning and Development Leaders Agree There Will Be a Surge in Skills Development Needs Due to AI and Digital Trends in Next 3 Years

    Source: Gartner – IT Research

    Headline: Gartner Survey Shows 85% of Learning and Development Leaders Agree There Will Be a Surge in Skills Development Needs Due to AI and Digital Trends in Next 3 Years

    As digital and AI trends continue to disrupt work, 85% of learning and development (L&D) leaders agreed that the need for skills development will significantly increase, according to Gartner, Inc. This research was showcased today during the Gartner ReimagineHR Conference, taking place here through Wednesday.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Manitoba Government Announces Anti-Islamophobia Working Group

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    October 29, 2024

    Manitoba Government Announces Anti-Islamophobia Working Group

    The Manitoba government is taking steps to address Islamophobia by forming a working group to tackle the issue in the province’s kindergarten to Grade 12 education system, Premier Wab Kinew announced today. 

    “Hate has no place in our province,” said Kinew. “It is important that we come together as Manitobans and stand united against all acts of hatred. We have a role as a government to keep things together here in Manitoba and we want Manitobans from all walks of life to know that your government is going to show up for you.” 

    The working group will focus on building awareness of Islamophobia and its impacts on all students and staff, developing training and professional opportunities and resources for educators, and providing input to Manitoba Education and Early Childhood Learning regarding K-12 anti-racism and anti-oppression policy initiatives. 

    “Over the last year, incidents of Islamophobia have increased in our classrooms and schools,” said Sadaf Ahmed, advocacy officer, National Council of Canadian Muslims (NCCM). “This is why an anti-Islamophobia strategy is imperative and NCCM welcomes the government of Manitoba‘s leadership to promote inclusivity in our education system.” 

    The working group will include members from the department, faith leaders, community advocacy groups and educators. The working group members are:

    • Sadaf Ahmed, National Council of Canadian Muslims;
    • Brahim Ould Baba, Manitoba Teachers’ Society;
    • Sarah Gazan, acting director, Indigenous Excellence Directorate, Education and Early Childhood Learning;
    • Muhamed Hammad, Faizan-E-Makkah Winnipeg (youth representative);
    • Humaira Jaleel, executive director, Healthy Muslim Families;
    • Kate McNeil, senior advisor to the deputy minister of Education and Early Childhood Learning;
    • Muhiadin Omar, Bilal Community and Family Centre; 
    • Rhonda Shaw, director, learning and outcomes branch, Education and Early Childhood Learning;
    • Eve Sotiriadou, executive director, Canadian Muslim Women’s Institute;
    • Youcef Sufi, Manitoba Islamic Association; and
    • Ayesha Sultan, president, University of Manitoba Muslim Students Association.

    The premier noted this work will build upon the successful development of the Manitoba Islamic Association’s Embracing Diversity in Manitoba Education K-12 Toolkit, which was developed to respond to Islamophobia in school communities. 

    – 30 –

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Universities – Anna Smaill named as 2025 International Institute of Modern Letters Writer in Residence – Vic

    Source: Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington

    Acclaimed novelist Anna Smaill has been appointed as Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington International Institute of Modern Letters (IIML) and Creative New Zealand Writer in Residence for 2025.

    Anna began her publishing career with a volume of poetry, The Violinist in Spring, which was released in 2005 by Te Herenga Waka University Press. Her first novel The Chimes won the prestigious award for Best Novel at the 2016 World Fantasy Awards. It was also longlisted for the Booker Prize and translated into four languages. Her second novel Bird Life was published in 2023 in the US, UK, and Australia to excellent reviews, with The Times (UK) calling it “a deeply affecting novel [that] transcend[s] cultural barriers while reaching through them to the essentially human”. Locally, it was longlisted for the Ockham Book Awards.

    While holding the residency at the IIML, Anna will work on a novel tentatively titled The Blazing, which she describes as “part archival thriller, part coming-of-age story”. Set in both the US and UK, the novel will be “an examination of the value and worth of art and history in the midst of cultural collapse, and will explore ideas of provenance and whakapapa. In testing how individual stories can ripple outward to effect historical change, it will follow a path back to Aotearoa New Zealand,” said Anna.

    Director of the International Institute of Modern Letters Damien Wilkins said, “Anna’s two novels put her in the front rank of writers in this country and we’re thrilled to have her in Bill Manhire House next year”.

    Commenting on the appointment, Anna said, “I am so grateful for the chance to work on my next book at the International Institute of Modern Letters in 2025, the place where I first started to take myself seriously as a writer. The residency position represents time and creative freedom. But even more it represents the collective mana of the institute and all the writers it has fostered. I feel very lucky to be part of it”.

    Anna takes up the residency at the IIML on 1 February 2025.

    In 2001, Anna completed an MA in Creative Writing at the IIML. She subsequently lived and studied overseas, receiving a PhD in English Literature from University College, University of London. She has worked as an academic and as a senior communications advisor. Most recently she was the team leader of Te Papa’s English writing team. Anna is also an accomplished literary critic, having published articles on writers such as Janet Frame and Bill Manhire.

    In 2015, Anna was a finalist in the Wellingtonian of the Year, Arts category. She also received a New Generation Award that year from the Arts Foundation.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: New York ETO promotes Hong Kong’s startup ecosystem in North Carolina (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         â€‹The Director of the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office, New York, Ms Maisie Ho, visited Raleigh, North Carolina from October 28 to 29 (Raleigh time) to strengthen ties with interlocutors in business, technology, and education sectors.

         Ms Ho attended the Raleigh Internet of Things (RIoT) Demo Night, an annual demonstration and networking event hosted by the RIoT initiative which fosters collaboration among start-ups, established companies, entrepreneurs and industry professionals. Before the event, she met with the Executive Director of RIoT, Mr Thomas Snyder and discussed potential partnership and exchange activities between start-ups and incubators in the Research Triangle Park of North Carolina and Hong Kong.

         On the same day, Ms Ho visited Innovate Carolina, the central team for innovation, entrepreneurship and economic development at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC Chapel Hill). She met with the Director of New Ventures and Partnerships, Dr Bryant Moore, and the Director of Economic Development and Innovation Hubs, Ms Sheryl Waddell, to learn more about Innovate Carolina and explore possible collaborations in the future. During the meeting, Ms Ho introduced Hong Kong’s growing start-up ecosystem and strategic focuses, as well as the various talent attraction schemes available to entrepreneurs and young professionals graduating from the UNC Chapel Hill. The UNC Chapel Hill is on the list of eligible universities under Hong Kong’s Top Talent Pass Scheme.

         Ms Ho also met with the Chief Executive Officer and President of First Flight Venture Centre, Ms Krista Covey. The centre is one of the most prominent incubators in the Research Triangle Park. During the meeting, Ms Ho introduced the latest measure in the 2024 Policy Address in attracting international start-up accelerators to establish a presence in Hong Kong through the I&T Accelerator Pilot Scheme.

         In addition, she discussed areas of mutual interests during her meeting with the Vice President for Advocacy of business organisation of the Chamber for Greater Chapel Hill-Carrboro, Mr Ian Scott.

         Ms Ho was accompanied by the Head of Business and Talent Attraction / Invest Promotion of Invest Hong Kong in New York, Mr Ranjit Unnithan, during her visit to Raleigh.            

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Tisdale — Update: RCMP investigating school bus collision 22 kilometers southwest of Tisdale

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    October 29, 2024
    Tisdale, Saskatchewan

    News release

    Tisdale RCMP continue to investigate the collision that occurred near the intersection of Township Road 424 and Range Road 2160 with the assistance of a Saskatchewan RCMP collision reconstructionist. As the investigation is ongoing, we are unable to provide additional information about any potential cause or details of the collision at this time.

    At the time of the collision, 27 children approximately 14-17 years old and an adult bus driver were on the bus. All the bus occupants were from the Tisdale detachment area. 26 children and the bus driver were transported to hospital by EMS and parents. One child was taken to hospital in Saskatoon by STARS Air Ambulance. 21 children have injuries described as non-life threatening and 6 children have injuries described as serious in nature. The adult driver of the bus has injuries described as serious in nature. We are not able to share further details of their injuries or treatment/status at the hospital, as this is considered their personal health information.

    Tisdale RCMP thanks the first responders who assisted in the response to the collision, including Melfort RCMP and Melfort, Tisdale and Naicam EMS. Thank you to the teachers, parents, and community members of Kinistin Saulteaux Nation who offered their support at the scene.

    –30–

    Backgrounder

    RCMP investigating school bus collision 22 kilometers southwest of Tisdale

    2024-10-29

    Tisdale RCMP are currently on scene and investigating a single vehicle collision involving a school bus that occurred at approximately 3:55 p.m. on October 28, 2024. The collision occurred near the intersection of Township Road 424 and Range Road 2160, approximately 22 kilometers southwest of Tisdale, SK. Local fire and EMS also responded.

    The investigation is in its preliminary stages and at this time we do not have details to provide about the collision. The bus is currently upright in the ditch.

    The adult driver of the school bus has injuries described as non-life threatening in nature. The school bus was transporting children at the time of the collision– we cannot confirm the number or ages of the children at this time. Some children are being treated for various injuries – we do not have specific details about their injuries or how many children require hospital treatment at this time.

    The children’s families have been notified and we are asking news partners and the public to please respect their privacy at this time.

    Tisdale RCMP continue to investigate with the assistance of a Saskatchewan RCMP collision reconstructionist. We do not anticipate further updates this evening.

    A road closure is in place between Range Road 2160 and Range Road 2155 for an undetermined amount of time. Detours are in place but motorists should expect delays in the area. Please slow down and follow the instructions of emergency personnel on scene. Please visit the Highway Hotline for road closure updates.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Peters Announces Nearly $119 Million in Federal Funding to Improve Rail Infrastructure Across Michigan

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Michigan Gary Peters
    Published: 10.29.2024

    WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) announced that the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) is investing $119 million to support five major commercial and passenger rail improvement projects across Michigan. These projects are funded by the FRA’s Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) Program, which was funded through the bipartisan infrastructure law Peters helped enact.   
    “Michigan communities and businesses depend on rail infrastructure for safe and efficient transportation of essential goods across the state, as well as to regional and global partners,” said Senator Peters. “These five projects will strengthen our railways and expand shipping capacity while creating jobs and spurring economic growth.”
    Below are descriptions of each project:
    Detroit RECHARGED – Realizing Environmental Changes Happening Around Railroads Generating Equitable Development: The Michigan Department of Transportation will receive $67,440,000 to improve and expand capacity of the Livernois Intermodal Facility by installing 17,200 feet of new rail track. The project will also make important site enhancements on at the Livernois Intermodal Facility, including new pavement and replacing aging diesel gantry cranes with new hybrid and fully electric models.
    Huron Subdivision Track & Service Improvement Program: The Lake State Railway Company will receive $27,130,810 to install approximately 52 miles of continuous welded rail between Pinconning and Alpena. Funding will also improve 34 highway-rail crossings and upgrade train signal devices at 13 locations along the route. 
    Leveraging Ludington: The City of Ludington will receive $16,400,000 to make improvements along a key rail route between Ludington and Grand Rapids, and enhance the Ludington Rail yard to improve efficiency and reliability of safe movement of goods throughout the area. 
    Wolverine and Blue Water Capacity Enhancement: The National Railroad Passenger Corporation (Amtrak) will receive $8,384,000 to restore functionality of the historic double-track on Amtrak’s Michigan Line between Glenwood Road and Niles in Wayne Township. This project will maximize performance and improve service speed.
    Enhancing Grade Crossing Safety in Rural Areas through FRA’s LiDAR Data, Machine Learning, and Collaborative Risk Assessment for Railroads and Highway Agencies: Michigan State University will receive $428,133 to conduct research aimed at improving the safety of rural rail crossings. Researchers will utilize Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) data provided by the Federal Railroad Administration to analyze rural crossings and develop new approaches for identifying roadway hazards.
    The CRISI grant program invests in railroad infrastructure projects that improve safety, efficiency and support economic development in communities across the country. Peters has consistently advocated for the CRISI program and fought for Michigan applicants. Last year, he announced a $20 million CRISI grant awarded to MDOT for replacement of the Manistee River Bridge in Manton. As Chairman of the Commerce Subcommittee on Surface Transportation, Maritime, Freight, and Ports, Peters held a field hearing in Lansing earlier this year to highlight the importance of the bipartisan infrastructure law and grant programs like CRISI for improving Michigan’s transportation infrastructure across the state. More information about the CRISI program can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: PHOTOS: Capito Makes Stops in Kanawha County Focused on Healthcare, Economic Development

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for West Virginia Shelley Moore Capito

    CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Today, U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), who serves as the Ranking Member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies (Labor-HHS), delivered remarks and met with local leaders at events focused on healthcare and economic development.

    First, Senator Capito delivered remarks at the ribbon cutting ceremony for the new West Virginia University (WVU) Medicine Thomas Orthopedic Hospital. The orthopedic hospital offers inpatient and outpatient surgical units, physical therapy, occupational therapy, as well as six orthopedic, spine, and nerve physician offices.

    “Since the partnership between Thomas Health, WVU Health System, and Saint Francis Hospital, we have seen tremendous growth. The addition of this new orthopedic hospital is an example of that growth,” Senator Capito said. “Partnerships like this mean more doctors, equipment, and staff, additional and specialized services, a stronger network of care, and a stronger community here in Charleston and the Kanawha Valley. With the addition of this new orthopedic hospital, I am confident the entire state of West Virginia will benefit, bringing a new suite of services and care for patients.”

    “We are thrilled to open the doors to our new state-of-the-art orthopedic Hospital serving all of southern West Virginia and the Region. As a member of WVU Medicine, we have worked throughout the last 18 months to transform Thomas Hospitals into a destination to receive advanced orthopedic care serving southern West Virginia and beyond,” Greg Rosencrance, M.D., president and CEO of Thomas Hospitals, said. “I thank Senator Capito for her partnership as we continue our expansion of services for the people of West Virginia.”

    Second, Senator Capito visited the West Virginia Hospital Association’s (WVHA) LEAD (Learn, Excel, Achieve, Deploy) pilot program training for new health care managers. The program aims to create a better pipeline of healthcare leaders for the future.

    “Managers have an important position in the overall success of any organization, including health care organizations,” Senator Capito said. “The skills these participants are learning at the LEAD training program are helpful for keeping health systems running effectively and efficiently, and it also can help with retention. I have no doubt that these trainees will come away as stronger and more confident leaders.”

    Photos from today’s events are below:


    U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) at the WVU Medicine Thomas Orthopedic Hospital ribbon cutting ceremony in Charleston, W.Va. on Tuesday, October 29, 2024.

    U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) at the WVU Medicine Thomas Orthopedic Hospital ribbon cutting ceremony in Charleston, W.Va. on Tuesday, October 29, 2024.

    U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) at the WVHA LEAD pilot program training in Charleston, W.Va. on Tuesday, October 29, 2024.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: EIT student decides to become teacher to help raise literacy and mathematics standards among Māori | EIT Hawke’s Bay and Tairāwhiti

    Source: Eastern Institute of Technology – Tairāwhiti

    7 seconds ago

    Johnson Hauraki is in his second year of the Bachelor of Teaching (Primary) at EIT Tairāwhiti.

    Johnson Hauraki (Ngāti Porou, Tuhoe) has always wanted to be a teacher, but it was only when he started at EIT Tairāwhiti that he realised that he could play a role in raising literacy and mathematics standards among Māori.

    Johnson is finishing his second year of the Bachelor of Teaching (Primary), having first done the NZ Certificate in Study and Career Preparation (Level 4) in 2022. Born and bred in Tairāwhiti, Johnson went straight from Gisborne Boys High to EIT.

    Johnson, 20, says that he has wanted to be a teacher since primary school.

    “I thought it would be quite rewarding to have an impact on a student’s life and then also see them come back when they get older and remember what you did for them.”

    “With teaching I want to be able to raise the literacy and the mathematics among Māori students.”

    He says that while he would not mind teaching in mainstream schools, he also likes the idea of going to a kura kaupapa.

    The Bachelor of Teaching (Primary) requires students to undertake placements at local schools.

    He says that he would have no hesitation in recommending EIT as a place to study because of the environment.

    “It was so different to high school, where it is very structured. At EIT, while you have things that you are required to do, you also have more freedom to make decisions.”

    Johnson says that his association with EIT will not come to an end when he finishes his teaching degree, as he plans to enrol in a te reo Māori programme when he is finished.

    As for where he wants to teach, Johnson says that he will be prepared to leave Gisborne to pursue his career.

    Emma McFadyen, EIT Tairāwhiti Site Coordinator and Lecturer, Primary Education, said: “Developing teachers for Te Tairāwhiti is central to the EIT/Te Pūkenga Bachelor of Teaching (Primary) programme, as well as being a degree recognised internationally.”

    “Being raised in the region provides Johnson with unique opportunities to give back to his community, along with the potential to spread his wings and explore his horizons. I’m excited to see where Johnson chooses to go in the future.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Used car ratings provide a roadmap to second hand safety

    Source: New South Wales Government 2

    Headline: Used car ratings provide a roadmap to second hand safety

    Published: 30 October 2024

    Released by: Minister for Regional Transport and Roads, Minister for Transport

    Used Car Safety Ratings released today show the wide gap between a safe second-hand vehicle and a poor performer in a crash.

    The NSW Government is urging used car buyers – particularly young people and their parents looking for a first car – to use the guide to buy a car that protects most for a particular price point.

    The annual guide shows a driver of the lowest rated vehicle is ten times more likely to be killed or seriously injured in a crash than a driver in the safest vehicle.

    Footage released today by the NSW Government shows the dramatic difference in outcomes when a 2012 Great Wall V200 and a 2012 Holden Colorado were crashed head on.

    The one star-rated Great Wall is decimated in the crash, putting driver and passenger at risk of serious injury while the four-star Colorado provided significantly better safety protection.

    The 2024 Used Car Safety guide rates 404 vehicles manufactured since 2000. Of those, 110 earned an “excellent” five-star rating – four more than in 2023 and 55 more than in 2022.

    The best of the five-star vehicles are marked as a ‘Safer Pick’, with 60 per cent of those vehicles available to purchase second hand for less than $10,000.

    Safer picks include:

    Mazda 3 (2013 – 2019)

    Toyota Camry (2011 – 2022)

    Volkswagen Touareg (2011 – 2019)

    Cars that received a very poor one-star rating include:

    Ford Fiesta (2004 – 2008)

    Hyundai Accent (2000 – 2006)

    Toyota Camry (1997- 2002)

    Holden Commodore VT/VX (1997 – 2002)

    The vast majority of the vehicles given a ‘Safer Pick’ rating were manufactured from 2008 onwards, demonstrating the benefits of more advanced safety equipment and design improvements like electronic stability control and advanced occupant protection systems.

    The ratings, which are in their 32nd year, were produced by Monash University in partnership with Transport for NSW and other transport agencies around Australia and New Zealand to help motorists choose the safest used car that fits their budget, needs, and lifestyle.

    The guide is available at https://towardszero.nsw.gov.au/sites/default/files/2024-10/ucsr-brochure-2024.pdf

    Minister for Roads John Graham said:

    “The hunt for a second-hand car has generally focused on a car that will not break down. No one wants to buy a lemon.

    “What is just as important is considering which used car delivers the safest performance for your budget. Your choice might literally save your life. 

    “The Used Car Safety Ratings guide provide simple, reliable safety information at no cost into the hands of vehicle buyers.

    “I urge parents of young people who may be looking for a first car to consider safety above all else and if you can buy a vehicle that is the safest in its category or price point, do so.

    “A driver behind the wheel of the lowest-rated vehicle is ten times more likely to be killed or seriously injured compared to a driver in the safest vehicle. The choice is that clear.”

    “With more than 60 per cent of the best-rated cars available for $10,000 or less, you don’t have to pick the most expensive car on the market to make a safer choice.

    Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Jenny Aitchison said:

    “For drivers in regional NSW, distances of travel are longer and many people use older vehicles, so choosing a vehicle with a high safety rating increases your chances of surviving a crash.

    “The 2024 Used Car Safety Ratings guide helps regional drivers find the safest options, ensuring they are well-protected no matter where their journey takes them.

    “Cost of living, particularly in regional areas, is an important issue for the Government and that is why we are encouraging everyone considering purchasing a second-hand car to use this guide to ensure they choose a safe vehicle.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI: Sunrun Announces Appointment of John Trinta to its Board of Directors

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN FRANCISCO, Oct. 29, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Sunrun (Nasdaq: RUN), the nation’s leading provider of clean energy as a subscription service, today announced the appointment of John Trinta, former CEO of Deloitte Financial Advisory Services, as a member of the Company’s board of directors (the “Board”) and Audit Committee of the Board. Mr. Trinta brings nearly 40 years of expertise in tax and accounting, paired with a proven track record in driving strategic growth and leading organizations to new heights.

    “It is with great excitement that I introduce John as the newest member of our Board. Having spent nearly four decades at Deloitte, he brings exceptional expertise in finance, accounting, and tax—critical skills as we navigate today’s complexities and continue to position ourselves as a market leader in the clean energy sector,” said Sunrun CEO Mary Powell. “Beyond his technical strengths, John’s leadership, strategic mindset, and ability to inspire teams set him apart. I’m confident that his insights will be a value add as we continue to execute on our margin-focused and disciplined growth strategy.”

    Mr. Trinta is a seasoned finance professional with a distinguished career in finance, accounting, and tax. From June 1998 to May 2020, Mr. Trinta held several executive positions at Deloitte, including as the CEO of Deloitte Financial Advisory Services, Deputy CEO of Advisory Services, Partner in Charge of Americas Financial Advisory Services, and Deputy National Managing Partner in Tax Services. He also served on Deloitte’s U.S. and Functional Global Board of Directors from 2003 to 2005. During his time at Deloitte, Mr. Trinta spearheaded Deloitte’s merger of Financial Advisory and Risk practices and co-led Deloitte’s purchase and integration of various tax and advisory businesses.

    “I am excited to join Mary and the Sunrun Board as the Company continues to innovate and differentiate itself within the market by focusing on creating cleaner, reliable, and sustainable energy solutions for its customers,” said Mr.Trinta. “I look forward to sharing my financial, accounting, and tax expertise with the entire Sunrun team and contributing to the mission of connecting people to the cleanest energy on earth.”

    Mr. Trinta holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration with a concentration in accounting from California State University, Chico, and a Master of Science degree in Taxation from Golden Gate University.

    About Sunrun
    Sunrun Inc. (Nasdaq: RUN) revolutionized the solar industry in 2007 by removing financial barriers and democratizing access to locally-generated, renewable energy. Today, Sunrun is the nation’s leading provider of clean energy as a subscription service, offering residential solar and storage with no upfront costs. Sunrun’s innovative products and solutions can connect homes to the cleanest energy on earth, providing them with energy security, predictability, and peace of mind. Sunrun also manages energy services that benefit communities, utilities, and the electric grid while enhancing customer value. Discover more at www.sunrun.com.

    Media Contact
    Wyatt Semanek
    Director, Corporate Communications
    press@sunrun.com

    Investor & Analyst Contact
    Patrick Jobin
    SVP, Deputy CFO & Investor Relations Officer
    investors@sunrun.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Collins Participates in Factory of the Future Groundbreaking at UMaine

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maine Susan Collins
    Published: October 29, 2024

    Click HERE and HERE for individual photos.
    Orono, ME – Today, U.S. Senator Susan Collins participated in a groundbreaking for the Green Engineering & Materials Factory of the Future at the University of Maine (UMaine). The Factory of the Future will be a 50,000 square foot facility that will usher in a new era of large-scale advanced manufacturing at the nexus of engineering and computing. The Factory will serve as a new national model to integrate research, leaning, and manufacturing.
    “UMaine’s Factory of the Future will establish Maine as a national leader in additive and advanced manufacturing,” said Senator Collins. “This state-of-the-art facility will spur innovation, strengthen our national defense, and give students invaluable experience in pioneering high-tech industries.”
    Senator Collins has secured more than $90 million to support the Factory of the Future project. In addition, the Fiscal Year 2025 defense spending bill, which still awaits consideration by the Senate and House of Representatives, includes $15 million to further support the Factory project.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Partnerships for Local Action and Community Empowerment (PLACE) announcement

    Source: Ministers for Social Services

    Good morning, it’s great to be with you all today.

    I’d like to begin by acknowledging the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we meet and pay my respects to elders past and present. I extend this acknowledgement and respect to all First Nations people joining us today.

    I would also like to acknowledge my colleague the Treasurer – the Honourable Jim Chalmers, who has been my partner in Government on this PLACE journey.

    To our philanthropic partners, thank you for your support and co-investment to make PLACE a reality.

    A big thank you of course to Our Place, Carlton Primary School, Gowrie Victoria and the City of Melbourne who are hosting us today.

    We’re here today because our Government has made a commitment to deliver an overhaul to the way Australia tackles disadvantage.

    Implementing this commitment requires us to work together differently with our partners and local communities, by shifting from traditional and siloed top-down support programs to an approach where we partner and collaborate, share decision-making and goals, and continue to learn from each other to drive better targeted and coordinated investment and effort. By innovating how we work with local communities and how we learn from each other, we will be able to drive a greater positive impact and deliver better outcomes with communities across Australia.

    Partnerships for Local Action and Community Empowerment, or PLACE for short, demonstrates how we will work differently. PLACE will support local communities, government, philanthropy and other stakeholders to work together around a shared understanding of complex problems and a shared commitment to action.

    The Government, together with our philanthropic partners, is proud to be jointly investing $38.6 million over five years to establish PLACE and to launch it into the world today.

    PLACE will be a not-for-profit, independent national organisation that will support communities to identify tailored, place-based solutions to address their needs and aspirations in areas they identify such as the early years, health, education, employment, youth justice and net zero.

    The need for PLACE emerged from community, who called for a national hub that could support a different way of working with community, and that recognised community was best placed to understand their needs and how best to create positive change.

    PLACE will provide this support by connecting community with best practice, building workforce capacity and capability, sharing research, data, tools and information, and supporting collaborative solutions with communities to accelerate progress on the things that matter most to them.

    A key feature of PLACE that distinguishes it from other community initiatives is its structure. It was imperative for us that the essence of working differently with community was embedded in the structure of PLACE. This is reflected in the shared governance arrangements that we have with our philanthropic partners and the community to put community at the centre of the PLACE, and ensure community views are always heard.

    We also want the Government’s involvement in PLACE to be different – that is not just connected to PLACE through the traditional grant agreement, where we are at arm’s length, but also as an active participant in its governance and in the work with communities to meet their needs and their identified priorities.

    I am delighted to be announcing PLACE here at the Carlton Learning Precinct, which is an integrated child and family centre and primary school. The Precinct is part of a diverse multicultural community, and where more than 85 per cent of students at Carlton primary speak a first language other than English.

    The Precinct is the result of work over many years between Carlton Primary School and local community members to meet the needs and aspirations identified by the community and their families and children. Since 2019, these early efforts have been amplified with the support of Our Place, Gowrie Victoria and the City of Melbourne.

    The Precinct includes maternal child health nurses, a Services Australia visiting service and adult employment and education services. Local leaders continue to work together with and listens to the community to ensure these services are co-ordinated to meet community needs and to stop families falling through the cracks. This integrated approach has already led to a 20 per cent increase in school enrolments since 2022.

    The Precinct also offers an insight into the practical benefits PLACE will have for communities like Carlton, including include offering:

    • tools, frameworks, and guidance to help define and measure the impact of the Precinct, and
    • specialised courses to equip Precinct staff and members manage complex, multi-stakeholder collaborations more effectively.

    It is our vision, together with our philanthropic partners, that PLACE will support the efforts of communities like in the Carlton Learning Precinct, and ultimately the projects PLACE works on will be underpinned by working together differently with and listening to community..

    The establishment of PLACE reflects a commitment to working differently, listening to what works locally and working in close collaboration with communities, philanthropy, and across governments to support accelerate positive change in local communities.

    PLACE is a key priority highlighted by the Investment Dialogue for Australia’s Children, and I am proud that we have been able to bring it to fruition together with our philanthropic partners.

    I want to thank the Department of Social Services for the strong and productive working relationship it has established with philanthropy and their significant work in getting us to this point.

    I’m excited to see what comes out of PLACE to help those communities and Australians experiencing disadvantage that need it most to thrive.

    Thank you.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Commonwealth takes bold step to protect freedom of expression

    Talamua Media

    The Commonwealth Heads of Government adopted the Commonwealth Principles on Freedom of Expression and the Role of the Media in Good Governance at their summit meeting in Apia, Samoa, last week.

    These Principles highlight the importance of freedom of expression and media freedom to democracy.  They state that Commonwealth governments “should consider repealing or amending laws which unduly restrict the right to freedom of expression”.

    The Commonwealth Human Rights Initiative and the Commonwealth Journalists Association called on states to take practical and effective steps to end arbitrary and excessive restrictions on free expression. The Commonwealth as a whole must audit progress and engage with civil society to ensure that these Principles are implemented in reality.

    Freedom of expression is not just a right in itself — it is the foundation that allows us to exercise and defend all other human rights, and is safeguarded under international law.

    However, as we know all too well, this right is under threat.

    According to UNESCO, in Commonwealth countries alone, 178 journalists were killed between 2006 and 2020. Furthermore, the impunity rate for the killings of journalists during that same time is 96 percent — which is notably higher than the global impunity rate of 87 percent.

    Reporters Without Borders (RSF) has documented 547 journalists imprisoned globally as of the end of 2023, with legal harassment often used as a tool to stifle dissent and investigative reporting.

    Restrictive, colonial-era laws
    Many Commonwealth countries still maintain restrictive, colonial-era laws that curtail free expression, suppress diverse voices, and inhibit the transparency that is essential for democracy.

    In the Commonwealth:

    • 41 countries continue to criminalise defamation; 48 countries still retain laws related to sedition; and
    • 37 still have blasphemy or blasphemy-like laws.
    Who Controls The Narrative? cover. Image: APR screenshot

    These details are set out in a soon to be released report by the Commonwealth Human Rights Initiative (CHRI) and the Commonwealth Journalists Association (CJA), with other Commonwealth partners, entitled Who Controls the Narrative? Legal Restrictions on Freedom of Expression in the Commonwealth.

    “These laws, often enforced through criminal sanctions, have a chilling effect on activists, journalists, iand others who fear retaliation for speaking truth to power”, said William Horsley of the Commonwealth Journalists Association.

    “This has led to an alarming rise in self-censorship and a decline in the independent and dissenting voices that are vital for holding governments accountable.”

    Civil society response
    The Principles were first put forward by a group of civil society organisations in response to  a general deterioration in legal protections and the working environment for journalists.

    The CJA convened other civil society organisations, including the CHRI, Commonwealth Lawyers Association and the Institute of Commonwealth Studies, before Commonwealth member states reviewed and adopted the Principles in the form which was adopted by heads of government at the 2024 CHOGM.

    States are “urged to take concrete and meaningful steps to implement them within their domestic frameworks, as set out in the CHOGM Samoa Communiqué“.

    The joint report Who Controls the Narrative? Legal Restrictions on Freedom of Expression in the Commonwealth reveals the increasing use of criminal law provisions, including those related to defamation, sedition, blasphemy, and national security, to restrict freedom of expression and media freedom within the Commonwealth.

    The report is the product of extensive collaboration between Commonwealth partners, legal experts, academics, human rights advocates, and media professionals, and provides a comprehensive analysis of the legal frameworks governing freedom of expression and outlines clear pathways for reform.

    In addition to analysing legal restrictions on free speech in Commonwealth states, the report puts forward actionable recommendations for reform.

    These include regional and national-level proposals, as well as broader Commonwealth-wide recommendations aimed at strengthening legal frameworks, promoting judicial independence, encouraging media pluralism, and enhancing international accountability mechanisms.

    Reforms essential
    These reforms are essential for establishing an environment where free expression can thrive, allowing individuals to speak without fear of reprisal.

    “While many member states share a colonial legal legacy that includes repressive laws still in effect today, they also share a commitment to democratic governance and the rule of law as set out in the Commonwealth Charter,” said Sneh Aurora, director of the Commonwealth Human Rights Initiative.

    “The Commonwealth has the potential to lead by example in promoting freedom of expression through legal reform, ensuring that criminal laws are not misused to silence dissent.

    “The Principles provide an important opportunity for Commonwealth governments to bring their national laws in line with international human rights laws.”

    Republished with permission from Talamua Online.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reed Delivers $1.5 Million for Expansion of Bryant School of Health & Behavioral Sciences

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Rhode Island Jack Reed

    SMITHFIELD, RI – In an effort to help bridge health care education and train more mental health clinicians, U.S. Senator Jack Reed today joined students, educators, and Bryant University leadership to deliver a $1.5 million federal earmark to strengthen health and behavioral sciences instruction and prepare more mental health care and health professionals to enter the local workforce.

    The $1.5 million federal earmark secured by Senator Reed is for Bryant University’s School of Health and Behavioral Sciences (SHBS) and its new doctoral program in clinical psychology (Psy.D.), which will launch next fall and be the first program of its kind in Rhode Island.

    The funding secured by Senator Reed will support renovation and expansion of SHBS to more than double its current footprint and house state-of-the-art teaching and research labs that will support Bryant’s curricular efforts to foster the development of a modern health care workforce.

    “Across the nation, communities and states need more mental health professionals who have the skills needed to effectively treat patients.  By expanding Bryant’s School of Health and Behavioral Sciences to include new, state-of-the-art lab and class spaces, the university is helping to address pressing needs and produce more well-trained health care providers who will graduate with hands-on experience in diverse clinical settings,” said Senator Reed, a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee.  “I salute Bryant for the outstanding work they do to build our future health care workforce and to address our nation’s mental health crisis.  This $1.5 million earmark will help them advance their important mission, expand Bryant’s health footprint, and train more highly-skilled health care and mental health care professionals to serve in high-demand environments.”

    “We are grateful to Senator Reed for enabling Bryant University to advance its ability to address the healthcare shortage in Rhode Island,” said Bryant University President Ross Gittell, Ph.D. “Aligned with our Vision 2030 priorities, this federal funding allows Bryant to put in place state-of-the-art behavioral health facilities as we launch Rhode Island’s only Doctor of Clinical Psychology (Psy.D.) program.”

    Provost and Chief Academic Officer Rupendra Paliwal, Ph.D., said, “This earmark not only enhances our facilities but also empowers us to train the next generation of healthcare practitioners, especially in the critical field of mental health. Our new Psy.D. will provide learners with a cutting-edge education that will prepare them to address the pressing mental health needs of our communities upon graduation.”

    Senator Reed joined Bryant University President Dr. Ross Gittell, Provost and Chief Academic Officer Dr. Rupendra Paliwal, Director of SHBS Dr. Kirsten Hokeness, and Associate Director of SHBS and President of the RI Psychological Association Dr. Joseph Trunzo to tour the SHBS, discuss plans for the two-phase expansion project, and to meet with students currently enrolled in the program.

    Phase 1 of the expansion of campus science facilities will directly support the growth of Bryant’s Psy.D. program. The first phase will include:

    • Behavioral Health/Psychology suite including seven observation and counseling labs, cognitive and psychophysiology labs, and a child development center.

    Phase 2 of the expansion will include:

    • Six teaching labs and a healthcare informatics lab;
    • Six research labs supporting faculty and student research programs and a shared health care informatics lab which can serve as a core facility for the state; and
    • Laboratory prep areas, chemical storage, and waste rooms.

    Bryant University launched its new School of Health and Behavioral Sciences in 2022 as part of Bryant’s Vision 2030 Strategic Plan, building on successful programs like the university’s Master of Physician Assistant (PA) program.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Treaty Principles Bill – statement of opposition

    Source: Post Primary Teachers Association (PPTA)

    Te Huarahi Māori Motuhake (THMM), the national Māori governing body of the Post Primary Teachers’ Association, PPTA Te Wehengarua, are united in our opposition to the Treaty Principles Bill. We share the view that the Bill is based upon ‘a disingenuous historical narrative that distorts the language of Te Tiriti and undermines social progress and cohesion.

    The principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi provide a mechanism to address Treaty breaches and improve relations between the Crown and iwi and hapū and should not be used to alter the intent of Te Tiriti o Waitangi.  Tampering with these principles is a regression of the last 50 years of positive movement forward for Te Tiriti relations. Tangata whenua, educationalists and tangata Tiriti have worked hard over many years to understand and enact practices that give life to Te Tiriti o Waitangi, and we want to ensure this hard work is not wasted.

    The cultural development to honour Te Tiriti o Waitangi in public education is threatened through this Bill. This is an attempt to rewrite history and change the intent of our tīpuna. It will also absolve the Crown’s obligation to work with and actively protect the rights and interests of Māori, particularly the educational needs of ākonga Māori and mātauranga Māori. We oppose any actions that deliberately undermine the status of tangata whenua and relinquish the Crown’s obligation to uphold Te Tiriti o Waitangi.

    Te Huarahi Māori Motuhake leads cultural knowledge, expertise, and insight essential for crafting policies and practices to ensure the Association’s constitutional objective, ‘affirm and advance Te Tiriti o Waitangi’, is upheld and culturally led at PPTA Te Wehengarua. Te Huarahi Māori Motuhake are adamant in our opposition to the Treaty Principles Bill and are committed to affirm and advance Te Tiriti o Waitangi. We will work tirelessly to ensure the promises within Te Tiriti o Waitangi are upheld.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Xi calls for continuously developing socialist culture with Chinese characteristics for new era

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

    Xi calls for continuously developing socialist culture with Chinese characteristics for new era

    BEIJING, Oct. 29 — On the afternoon of Oct. 28, the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee held its 17th group study session. The topic was on developing a strong culture in China. General Secretary of the CPC Central Committee Xi Jinping, while presiding over the session, emphasized the importance of sticking to the strategic goal of developing a strong culture in the country by 2035. He highlighted the significance of upholding Marxism as the fundamental guiding ideology, drawing inspirations from the rich heritage of Chinese civilization, keeping abreast of trends in information technology development and continuously fostering a socialist culture with Chinese characteristics in the new era that offers strong theoretical guidance, spiritual cohesion and value appeal, and has global influence. It is essential to enhance the spiritual strength of the people, thereby laying a robust cultural foundation for building a strong country and realizing the rejuvenation of the Chinese nation, he said.

    Professor Wang Bo, vice president of Peking University, gave a lecture on this issue and put forward suggestions. Members of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee listened carefully to the lecture and held discussions.

    Xi delivered an important speech after listening to the lecture and discussions. He pointed out that since the 18th CPC National Congress, we have persisted in placing cultural development in a prominent position in the governance of the country, made a series of major arrangements, and formed the thought on socialist culture with Chinese characteristics for the new era. We have worked to make historic achievements in cultural development through thoroughly overhauling cultural concepts and cultural theories as well as in upholding fundamental principles and breaking new ground. As a result, we have made great strides in developing a strong socialist culture.

    Xi stressed the need to develop a socialist culture with Chinese characteristics, as well as to uphold the Party’s leadership, enhance governance capacity in cultural sector in the information age, and consolidate the foundation of the Party’s governance and public support for the Party in terms of ideology, ethos and culture. The fundamental system for ensuring the guiding role of Marxism in the ideological domain must be upheld, Xi said, calling for efforts to fully implement the thought on socialist culture with Chinese characteristics for the new era and develop a sound, people-oriented socialist culture for our nation that embraces modernization, the world, and the future. He also highlighted the necessity to adhere to the guidance of core socialist values, continuously bolster the Chinese spirit, Chinese values, and Chinese strength, and develop and strengthen mainstream values, mainstream public opinion, and mainstream culture.

    Xi emphasized the need to stimulate the cultural innovation and creativity of the entire nation. He advocated for a people-centered approach to creation that prioritizes social benefits while integrating social and economic outcomes. He identified the stimulation of innovative and creative vitality as a central element in deepening reform of cultural system and mechanisms, calling for accelerated improvements in cultural management systems as well as production and operational mechanisms. To enhance originality in creating cultural works, he called for efforts to improve the mechanisms for providing services, guidance, and organization work for artistic creation and production, and thus make it possible to nurture a batch of deeply resonant contemporary classics, so as to attain a new zenith of Chinese culture. He noted the need to actively create a favorable cultural environment, promote academic and artistic democracy, and support writers, artists, and experts in getting what they need for creation from life and dedicating themselves to their creations so that they will continuously maintain their vitality for cultural innovation and creativity. Furthermore, he urged the exploration of effective mechanisms for integrating culture and technology, and achieving digital empowerment and information transformation in cultural development, so as to convert advantages in cultural resources into strengths for cultural development.

    Xi stressed the principle that cultural development must be for the people and of the people. To satisfy the people’s diverse, multilevel and multifaceted cultural needs, efforts must be made to advance the capabilities of providing cultural services and products, so as to ensure that the people have a stronger sense of fulfillment and happiness in terms of culture. We should attach importance to the role of culture in fostering will and virtue, so as to foster a higher level of morale throughout the nation. We should also respect the way talent develop, and improve the mechanisms that comply with the characteristics of the cultural sector to select and cultivate talent, put them to proper use and motivate them, so as to make sound policies that will help to recognize, attach importance to and cherish talent. In this way we will be able to build a strong and well-structured team of high-caliber cultural talent that is bold to innovate in creating excellent works.

    Xi urged continued efforts to carry on China’s cultural tradition through creative transformation and innovative development. Stressing the need to leverage the cultural subjectivity of the Chinese nation, he underlined the necessity to conserve, promote, and develop the treasures of Chinese culture that have survived the historical vicissitudes. It is a must to further explore and explain the values of traditional Chinese culture, as well as activate their excellent elements with Marxism and update their connotations, in order to develop a socialist culture with Chinese characteristics for the new era. Urging respect for history and passion for culture, Xi called for efforts to promote systematic conservation and unified regulation of cultural heritage, upholding the principles of conservation first, reasonable utilization and minimum intervention. Xi also emphasized continued efforts to build sound institutions and mechanism for cultural heritage conservation and inheritance, and fast-track the drive to improve the system of regulations and institutions in this regard.

    Xi highlighted the need to continuously enhance China’s cultural soft power and Chinese culture’s influence. It is imperative to promote the restructuring of the international communication framework, innovate the approach to conduct online international publicity, and create a multi-channel and full-dimensional framework for international communication. It is a must to more proactively promote China’s stand, spread Chinese culture, and showcase China’s image. It is imperative to carry out extensive and diverse international cultural exchanges and cooperation. It is essential to learn from all the outstanding achievements of human civilization, so as to achieve cultural outcomes that integrate the past and present, and connect China with the rest of the world.

    Xi finally stressed that building China into a country with a strong culture is the common task of the whole Party and the whole society. It is necessary to strengthen the centralized and unified leadership of the CPC Central Committee over public communication and cultural work, and optimize the leadership and management system and mechanism for cultural development. Party committees and governments at all levels should effectively strengthen organization and leadership, do a good job in assignment of officials, cultivation of talent, and investment of resources, and stimulate the enthusiasm, initiative, and creativity of all sectors to form a powerful synergy for building up China’s cultural strength.

    MIL OSI China News –