NewzIntel.com

Category: Education

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Department of Agricultural Research and Education-Indian Council of Agricultural Research Institute of North-East actively participates in Swachhta Special Campaign 4.0

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 23 SEP 2024 2:00PM by PIB Delhi

    Department of Agricultural Research and Education-Indian Council of Agricultural Research Institute of North-East actively participated in Swachhta Special Campaign 4.0. For ongoing program, “Swachhta Hi Seva” ICAR institutes took initiative today to clean roads which link main campus to market.

    All garbage was removed and grass was cut down which use to grow alongside the road and in the drain.

    *****

    SS

    (Release ID: 2057805) Visitor Counter : 36

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CSIR-NIScPR, CSIR-CFTRI, UBA, and VIBHA organised Two day “Technology Showcasing and Networking Meet”

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 23 SEP 2024 11:32AM by PIB Delhi

    CSIR-National Institute of Science Communication and Policy Research (NIScPR), in collaboration with CSIR-Central Food Technological Research Institute (CFTRI), Unnat Bharat Abhiyan (UBA), and Vijnana Bharati (VIBHA), jointly organized a two-day “Technology Showcasing and Networking Meet of CFTRI Food and Millet Technologies” at CSIR-CFTRI, Mysuru from 19-20 September 2024. This event showcased CSIR-CFTRI’s innovative food technologies aimed at enhancing rural livelihoods. As a pioneer in food science research, CSIR-CFTRI focuses on food processing, post-harvest technology, food safety, and nutraceuticals. Their technological advancements encompass a wide range of food products, including cereals, pulses, fruits, vegetables, dairy, meat, and fish.

    The primary objective of the event was to showcase and demonstrate the food technologies developed by CSIR-CFTRI for the benefit of stakeholders from rural areas of the country and how these technologies can be utilized to create livelihood opportunities in rural areas and promote sustainable development; to identify key challenges in food processing and agricultural productivity, and strategies to foster economic growth and food security in rural areas. The event also aimed to provide a platform where these innovations can be demonstrated to a wide range of stakeholders from all over the country, including industry professionals, entrepreneurs, researchers, policymakers, and members from rural communities to exchange ideas for application of CSIR-CFTRI Technologies in rural areas for achieving collaborations, encouraging technology adoption, technology transfer and commercialization that can benefit both the food industry and promote sustainable development. The inaugural session was graced by Dr. Sridevi Annapurna Singh, Director, CSIR-CFTRI; Prof. Ranjana Aggarwal, Director, CSIR-NIScPR; Shri Sam Cherian, Chairman and Managing Director, Schevaran Laboratories Pvt. Ltd., Mysuru; Prof. Virendra Kumar Vijay, National Coordinator, Unnat Bharat Abhiyan (UBA); Dr P. K Singh, Project Director UBA; Shri N.P Rajive, Executive Director Vibha Vaani; and Dr Yogesh Suman, Chief Scientist, CSIR-NIScPR.

    The event witnessed an overwhelming participation of more than 100 participants from all across the country. It commenced with the welcome address by Dr. Sridevi Annapurna Singh, Director, CSIR-CFTRI. In her address Dr. Singh highlighted that during its initial years, CSIR-CFTRI tried to address the challenge of malnutrition along with the hidden micro malnutrition in the country. She talked about the important CSIR-CFTRI technologies like infant food from buffalo milk, parboiling of rice technologies, spice and oil technologies, automation technologies for traditional food like dosa machine, idli machine, vada machine, chapatti machine, biodegradable leaf cup machine and highlighted the efforts on nutraceutical research and aiming to filling the gap of skilled manpower in the food industry through MSc course on Food technology being run in CSIR-CFTRI. She also underscored that the need of skilled manpower for wheat milling industry are being fulfilled by the CSIR-CFTRI’s International School of Milling Technology course being run by CSIR-CFTRI. CSIR-CFTRI is recognized as the nodal food laboratory for food testing in India and working with FSSAI (regulatory body in testing) and developed about 550 test to test foods.

    Prof. Ranjana Aggarwal, Director, CSIR-NIScPR discussed the background of CSIR- NIScPR’s on-going collaboration with UBA and VIBHA for creating livelihood and business opportunities in rural India using CSIR Technologies. She also highlighted to reverse the migration from rural to urban through creating opportunities in the rural areas itself for sustainable development. And how UBA and VIBHA networking is helping to identify the stakeholders in rural areas. She also highlighted various success stories taken place under this joint initiative.

    Prof. Virendra Kumar Vijay provided the overview of the Unnat Bharat Abhiyan and its collaboration with CSIR. He also highlighted the ongoing UBA initiative towards rural development.

    Project Director of UBA, NCI New Delhi Prof. P. K. Singh, in his address, mentioned about the Subject Expert Groups working in UBA and their contributions. He also highlighted the support given by UBA to implement ideas generated by stakeholders.

     Shri NP Rajive, Executive Director, Vibha Vani highlighted the event as a beginning point in identifying the technological needs of the people which can be solved through technologies available with CSIR. He also highlighted of how Vibha Vani can help in upscaling and speeding up the implementation of CSIR-CFTRI technologies at grass-root level. Dr. Yogesh Suman, Chief Scientist, CSIR-NIScPR discussed about the importance of the efforts being made jointly by these organizations to create livelihood opportunities in rural areas by using CSIR technologies. Shri Sam Cherian, Chairman and Managing Director, Schevaran Laboratories Pvt. Ltd., Mysuru highlighted the CSIR-CFTRI’s efforts and contributions for food industry, food security and foot sustainability in the country.

    In the Technical session, Dr. Ashutosh Inamdar highlighted the various research activities being carried out at CSIR-CFTRI and its translation for the benefit of stakeholders through promotion of innovation, entrepreneurship, start-up ecosystem development and collaboration & partnership.

    Day two of the event began with the networking session moderated by Sh. Aashish Inamdar, where participants interacted with technology developer scientists to identify specific opportunities for CSIR-CFTRI Technology deployment. The panellists involved from CSIR- CFTRI were Dr. Umesh Hebbar H, Dr. Pradeep Singh Negi, Dr Meera M S, Dr. Attar Singh Chauhan, Dr P V Suresh, Dr Pushpa S Murthy, and Dr Ashutosh Inamdar. They highlighted various technologies developed by CSIR-CFTRI in the areas of fruits and vegetable, grain, traditional food, meat processing, making value added products using pepper, turmeric, ginger spices etc. Dr Yogesh Suman, Chief Scientist, CSIR-NIScPR highlighted the CSIR efforts towards livelihood creation through S&T intervention in rural areas.

    An interactive session moderated by Dr. Raghvendra C K, was also organised with the representatives from banking sector Government agencies responsible for implementing various Government schemes in the area of agriculture. They discussed about the funding schemes available for technology adaptation, and establishing enterprises and start-ups in the area of agriculture. The panellist involved in the discussion included Shri Chandra Kumar from KAPPEC Karnataka, Shri Chandrashekhar from Medikere; Shri Saiyad Rizvi from Union Bank of India and Shri Krishnamurti from State Bank of India, Mysuru. They talked about funding schemes like PFME, Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF), and Retail Asset Credit Centre (RACC) and other short term and long term funding schemes for establishing unit.

    ***

    AG

    (Release ID: 2057733) Visitor Counter : 58

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Hospital Authority announces senior appointment (with photo)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:

         The Hospital Authority (HA) spokesperson announced the following senior appointment today (September 23):
     
         Dr Ada Yu will be appointed as Hospital Chief Executive of Bradbury Hospice, Cheshire Home, Shatin, and Shatin Hospital with effect from October 1.
     
         Dr Yu is a specialist in emergency medicine by background. She is currently the Chief Manager (Planning and Commissioning) of the New Territories East Cluster (NTEC) overseeing all major hospital projects in the NTEC including the planning and commissioning of the Prince of Wales Hospital (PWH) Phase 2 Redevelopment Project, the North District Hospital Expansion Project and the North District Community Health Centre Project. As an experienced senior executive, Dr Yu steers the strategic planning of the NTEC and drives a wide spectrum of projects for enhancement of clinical services and improvement of patient experiences in the hospitals. In her concurrent role as the Co-ordinator of Clinical Services of the PWH, she formulates the cluster annual plan, drives innovative technology development and smart solutions in the NTEC, and co-ordinates the service collaboration between the HA and the Chinese University of Hong Kong Medical Centre.
     
         The HA Chairman, Mr Henry Fan, and the Chief Executive, Dr Tony Ko, congratulate Dr Yu on her new appointment and wish her every success in taking up the new role.
        

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: FACT SHEET: Taking Action to Support Auto Workers and Manufacturers, Including in  Michigan

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    In Detroit, the White House will convene the Michigan Workforce Hub to announce new commitments to support the auto workforce and increase capital access for auto suppliers
    The American auto industry has driven the U.S. manufacturing base for generations, and the Biden-Harris Administration is ensuring that the future of the auto industry is made in America by American union workers. Today, National Economic Advisor Lael Brainard is traveling to Detroit, Michigan to convene the Michigan Workforce Hub and announce a suite of new actions to support automakers and auto workers, with an emphasis on historic auto communities in Michigan. The Michigan Workforce Hub is one of nine Investing in America Workforce Hubs launched by the Biden-Harris Administration to ensure all Americans can access the good jobs created by the Biden-Harris Investing in America agenda.
    Today’s announcement builds on the actions that Vice President Harris announced in May to support small- and medium-sized auto manufacturers with access to capital to expand or retool manufacturing facilities, new workforce training resources, and new technical assistance programs.
    “I believe in an economy where everyone has a chance to compete and a chance to succeed. Investing in the ambitions and aspirations of our people is the best way to grow the American economy and the middle class,” said Vice President Kamala Harris. “Yet for far too long, we have seen lack of investment in communities across America and profound obstacles to economic opportunity—including in communities with historic manufacturing expertise such as Detroit. Earlier this year, I was proud to announce new support for small- and medium-sized auto suppliers in Detroit. Today’s announcements build on those investments by making sure our auto supply chains stay here in America, strengthening our economy overall by investing in historically underserved communities, and keeping more auto jobs in Detroit.”
    $1 Billion in Financing for Small- And Medium-Sized Auto Suppliers
    Auto suppliers support the majority of auto manufacturing jobs, and small- and medium-sized suppliers employ more than 250,000 workers across the country—serving as economic engines in Michigan, Ohio, and other historic auto communities.
    Today, the Department of the Treasury is announcing a $9.1 million grant to launch the Michigan Auto Supplier Transition Program to help small and underserved automotive manufacturers and aftermarket suppliers secure financing to scale and shift to supplying the electric vehicle supply chain. Made possible by Treasury’s State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI), the Michigan Auto Supplier Transition Program will provide financial, legal, accounting, and other support services to underserved and very small businesses, including helping these firms access the over $230 million in additional lending and equity investments made available to support Michigan businesses through the American Rescue Plan’s SSBCI program. The Michigan Economic Development Corporation will oversee the Auto Supplier Transition program in coordination with the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity Community and Worker Economic Transition Office. Additionally, Monroe Capital is announcing a commitment to raise up to $1 billion for a new “Drive Forward” Fund to facilitate access to lower cost capital for small- and medium-sized auto manufacturers to refinance, grow, and diversify their businesses. The Drive Forward Fund builds on successful investment funds catalyzed by the Small Business Administration’s Small Business Investment Company program, which provides low-cost government-guaranteed leverage funding to lower the cost of capital for portfolio companies. The Drive Forward Fund will be advised by a council with experts from across the automotive industry to ensure that capital is directed to small and medium-sized auto suppliers with high-road labor practices and significant domestic manufacturing content. A focus will be placed on manufacturers that are well-positioned to lead in the future of the automotive industry and need additional capital and support to grow their manufacturing capacity, including companies making critical investments in the transition from internal combustion engine (ICE) production to electric vehicles (EV).
    These new announcements build on investments that the Biden-Harris Administration has already made in auto manufacturers, including in Michigan. For example, under the Domestic Manufacturing Conversion Grant Program, the Department of Energy announced a $500 million award to General Motors in Lansing and a $158 million award to ZF North America in Marysville to support the conversion of these legacy ICE facilities to EV production—retaining or creating over 1,000 combined jobs. Both of these facilities are UAW unionized. The Department of Energy also announced that the State of Michigan is eligible to receive over $18 million in funding to provide grants to small- and medium-sized auto suppliers converting their facilities to electric vehicle production. To protect these investments from unfair trade practices abroad, the President has taken strong and strategic action, including by raising tariffs to 100% on EVs and batteries from China.
    The Administration welcomes additional commitments and actions from stakeholders across industry to support automakers and auto workers.
    Michigan Workforce Hub Commitments
    In 2023, First Lady Jill Biden announced the Investing in America Workforce Initiative in five initial locations where the Biden-Harris Investing in America agenda is catalyzing historic investments in industries of the future. In April, President Biden announced Michigan as one of four new Workforce Hubs, designed to prepare Michigan workers for the good-paying and union jobs created by these historic investments, with a focus on the auto sector. Since the start of the Biden-Harris Administration, industry has announced $28 billion in private investment in clean energy and manufacturing in Michigan. The Hub is focused on four pillars: improving alignment between training programs and industry needs, standardizing training program guidelines for emerging occupations in the auto supply chain, promoting career readiness with a focus on underserved communities, and addressing structural barriers to employment.
    The Michigan Workforce Hub is coordinating across the Department of Labor, the Department of Energy, the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity, community colleges, unions, employers, philanthropy, nonprofits, and others to deliver on President Biden’s announcement. Since the launch of the Hub, the Department of Labor has invested more than $5.4 million to modernize, expand, and diversify registered apprenticeship programs in Michigan across key industries, including manufacturing, and connect workers to good-paying jobs, and the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity has continued to leverage $25 million in American Rescue Plan funding to expand apprenticeships in the state. The Detroit Regional Partnership is also continuing to implement its $52.2 million grant from the American Rescue Plan to invest in the Detroit area’s legacy automotive industry and unite 135 local coalition members around a common vision for a collaborative and equitable regional economy; the coalition is undertaking
    To institutionalize the work of the Michigan Workforce Hub, the Department of Energy is announcing the selection of a full-time Michigan Fellow, hosted by the Michigan AFL-CIO Workforce Development Institute. This Fellow is part of an inaugural cohort of ten fellows and host organizations funded by the Community Workforce Readiness Accelerator for Major Projects (RAMP) program—which is designed to address workforce gaps while ensuring that historic clean energy investments lift all communities, especially those historically left behind.
    Today, the Michigan Workforce Hub is announcing a suite of new federal, state, philanthropic, nonprofit, and private sector commitments:
    Building pipelines to careers for underserved communities:
    The Department of Labor and the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity is announcing a new pilot program to train workers in Wayne County for over 140 high-quality jobs in the auto supply chain. The pilot will partner with local automotive employers to train workers while they earn a paycheck, addressing a major barrier to enrollment. As part of the pilot, the Southeast Michigan Community Alliance (SEMCA) will work with employers, including Roush, and provide supportive services to address transportation, childcare, and other needs to make it easier for Detroit-area residents from underserved communities to access both training and good-paying manufacturing jobs.
    The Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity has partnered with International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) and invested $4 million to support more than 500 Michigan workers to receive the Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Training Program credential in preparation for good-paying, union jobs installing EV chargers, including through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure program. Forty percent or more of the participants served will be from underserved targeted populations.
    Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity, AFL-CIO Workforce Development Institute, and International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) are launching an accelerated Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) to Registered Apprenticeship Program pilot to expedite preparation of RAP candidates who have completed CDL training. Through collaborative efforts with Labor partners and the IBEW, leveraging innovative Apprenticeship Readiness Programs, 15 participants from traditionally underrepresented groups will receive CDL training and participate in a registered apprenticeship resulting in a good-paying union job.
    Taskforce Movement is partnering with the Michigan Department of Labor & Economic Opportunity to create career pathways for transitioning service members and veterans into electronic vehicle, manufacturing, and cybersecurity jobs. Transitioning service members and veterans will leverage the skills and discipline honed during military service to build a more robust workforce while providing veterans with stable, high-quality careers.
    The Detroit Lions and Detroit Pistons will partner with Detroit Public Schools to launch new manufacturing career exposure programs for over 1,000 high school students, with a focus on supporting students from underrepresented and employment-distressed neighborhoods.
    Driving career readiness and standardizing training programs for good-paying jobs:
    The Department of Energy and over a dozen industry sponsors are providing $23.6 million in funding for the Battery Workforce Challenge to invest in equipment, technical support, mentorship, internships, and job placements and train up to 14,000 workers across the country for careers across the EV value chain—including technicians, electricians, skilled trades, and engineers. The program will invest more than $600,000 in colleges in Michigan to train over 300 Michiganders. Sponsors include Stellantis, Samsung SDI America, the American Battery Technology Company, AVL North America, Vector, and the Battery Innovation Center.
    The Department of Energy’s Battery Workforce Challenge Program, managed by Argonne National Laboratory, will create STEM talent pipelines in battery manufacturing hubs across the nation—the first being piloted in Michigan with the support of at least $400,000 in total, direct funding. Key partners in the Michigan pilot will include the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, high schools, vocational institutions, higher education, and industry. The Department of Energy will provide $200,000 in seed funding to Henry Ford Community College in Detroit to establish a state-of-the-art Battery/EV Technical Center. The Michigan Economic Development Corporation will also award $200,000 to the University of Michigan-Dearborn to establish an undergraduate-level training program as well as a summer boot camp to educate undergraduate students in EV battery technology and build a talent pipeline.
    The Department of Energy and Argonne will partner with New Energy New York to develop battery and EV training and educational content, “BattTech,” to be used in the Michigan pilot and the other Battery Workforce Hubs. BattTech will provide industry-aligned educational content and training in battery technology, EV development, safety, manufacturing, and recycling—ensuring participants are equipped with the skills required for roles across the battery and electric vehicle value chain.
    As part of the Battery Workforce Challenge, the Department of Energy will provide $250,000 to the Society of Manufacturing Engineers (SME) to pilot a battery manufacturing career pathway in high school career technical education courses in Michigan. The battery manufacturing career pathway will be integrated into the SME PRIME (Partnership Response In Manufacturing Education) program that currently is serves 110 schools and 10,000 students annually across 23 states. SME PRIME also intends to further expand its existing footprint in Michigan.
    The Department of Energy’s Battery Workforce Initiative and Michigan community colleges will launch discussions for a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to deploy industry-approved classroom and on-the-job training with battery manufacturers and their community college partners for high-demand occupations. This training program has also been certified by the Department of Labor as the guidelines for battery manufacturing machine operator apprenticeship.
     Supporting employers in building a skilled workforce and navigating resources:
    The Michigan Workforce Hub will provide new resources to employers to attract a skilled and diverse workforce for clean energy manufacturing jobs. The Department of Energy’s Battery Workforce Initiative will invest $200,000 to provide skills assessment and job task analysis to firms transitioning to EV component or clean goods production.
    Additionally, the Families and Workers Fund will partner with the Good Jobs Institute and Toyota Production System Support Center to deliver training and coaching to ten small and medium clean technology manufacturers to help them navigate workforce and operational challenges. The recruitment for the first cohort of manufacturers is now underway, and the program will formally launch in 2025.
    Leveraging American Rescue Plan funding, the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity and SEMCA Michigan Works! will accelerate the adoption of apprenticeship programs in Michigan, particularly for small- and medium-sized auto manufacturers, by launching a Race to Talent with Registered Apprenticeship Michigan Event on September 25, which is designed to grow employer and industry awareness of the benefits of Registered Apprenticeships in the EV and mobility sector.
    With philanthropic support and in partnership with the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity, NextStreet will create a digital hub to help connect small- and medium-sized suppliers in Michigan to resources to help with retooling, modernization, and economic transition.
    Supporting employers in building a skilled workforce and navigating resources:
    The Michigan Workforce Hub will provide new resources to employers to attract a skilled and diverse workforce for clean energy manufacturing jobs. The Department of Energy’s Battery Workforce Initiative will invest $200,000 to provide skills assessment and job task analysis to firms transitioning to EV component or clean goods production.
    Additionally, the Families and Workers Fund will partner with the Good Jobs Institute and Toyota Production System Support Center to deliver training and coaching to ten small and medium clean technology manufacturers to help them navigate workforce and operational challenges. The recruitment for the first cohort of manufacturers is now underway, and the program will formally launch in 2025.
    Leveraging American Rescue Plan funding, the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity and SEMCA Michigan Works! will accelerate the adoption of apprenticeship programs in Michigan, particularly for small- and medium-sized auto manufacturers, by launching a Race to Talent with Registered Apprenticeship Michigan Event on September 25, which is designed to grow employer and industry awareness of the benefits of Registered Apprenticeships in the EV and mobility sector.
    With philanthropic support and in partnership with the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity, NextStreet will create a digital hub to help connect small- and medium-sized suppliers in Michigan to resources to help with retooling, modernization, and economic transition.
    Building local capacity and promoting economic development:
    With the support of up to $250,000 in funding from the Department of Agriculture, the Federal Interagency Thriving Communities Network will team up with the State of Michigan, local officials, and economic development leaders to build capacity in the historic auto communities of Saginaw and Flint as well as rural communities in the Upper Peninsula. This initiative will work to close gaps related to workforce participation, infrastructure, and poverty—driving local economic comebacks. This work builds upon place-based capacity building efforts that the Network is providing to other parts of Michigan and across the country.
    The City of Lansing will increase representation of women in construction and skilled trades through the Leveraging Infrastructure Networks for Equity Initiative, a partnership between the Department of Labor’s Women’s Bureau and the non-profit Accelerator for America. This project has been renewed for second year with nearly $500,000 in funding to improve pathways for women to access the good jobs being created by historical investments in infrastructure.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Change of British High Commissioner to Canada: Robert Tinline

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Robert Tinline has been appointed British High Commissioner to Canada.

    Robert Tinline

    Mr Robert Tinline has been appointed British High Commissioner to Canada in succession to Ms Susannah Goshko CMG, who will be transferring to another Diplomatic Service appointment. 

    Mr Tinline will take up his appointment during February 2025.

    Curriculum vitae         

    Full name: Robert Tinline

    Year Role
    2022 to present FCDO, Director Americas
    2020 to 2022 FCDO, Director COVID
    2017 to 2019 Joint Intelligence Committee, Chief of the Assessments Staff
    2015 to 2017 Head of HMG Counter Proliferation and Arms Control Centre
    2012 to 2015 UK Representation to the EU, Deputy Head of Mission
    2011 to 2012  Madrid, Deputy Head of Mission
    2010 to 2011 FCO, Head of Consular Assistance
    2008 to 2010 FCO, Head of Near East Department
    2007 to 2008 Basra, Deputy Consul General
    2005 to 2007 FCO, Press Office
    2003 to 2005 FCO, Counter Terrorism Department
    1999 to 2002 Bogotá, Second Secretary
    1997 to 1998 FCO, Security Policy Department
    1997 Joined FCO

    Media enquiries

    Email newsdesk@fcdo.gov.uk

    Telephone 020 7008 3100

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

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 September 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Happy Hispanic Heritage Month from Secretary Cardona

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

    #HispanicHeritageMonth is an opportunity to celebrate the Latino students, teachers, staff, and families across the U.S. who are strengthening our schools every day.

    Secretary Miguel Cardona’s message to them for their countless contributions: ¡Muchísimas gracias!

    #HHM

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gUjEhK6OICI

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Connecting with Multicultural & Multilingual Students

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

    By leveraging his Hispanic heritage and his bilingualism, Jorge Torres – the American School Counselor Association’s 2023 Washington State School Counselor of the Year – connects with students who are multilingual & multicultural, helping them feel more seen in their school.

    #HispanicHeritageMonth #HHM

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vKJA9FzBbGY

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Students of SPbGASU participate in the survey “DNA of Russia”

    MIL OSI Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Saint Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering – Saint Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering – Students of SPbGASU – participants of the survey “DNA of Russia”. On the left, behind the podium – Irina Lapina

    From September 17 to October 7, the “Not Indifferent Person” platform is conducting a survey called “DNA of Russia”. First-year students of SPbGASU studying the discipline “Fundamentals of Russian Statehood” are actively participating in it.

    “Any civilization is a living organism. This explains the application of such a term as DNA to Russia. After all, DNA is one of the most important molecules through which the genetic code of all living beings is transmitted,” Irina Lapina, head of the history and philosophy department at our university, addressed the survey participants at a meeting with students.

    According to Irina Yuryevna, thanks to digital technologies, expressing one’s opinion has become much easier: in ancient times, one had to gather a veche to do this.

    Student Leonid Razumov reported on the importance of the topics covered by the survey: its questions concern the future of Russia and how young people see themselves in 10–15 years.

    Student Polina Dmitrieva believes that this survey is very relevant, because it makes you think seriously about life.

    “Such a survey motivates, helps to systematize thoughts. It is interesting for people who do not sit still, constantly develop, set goals and want to move towards them,” says student Yaroslav Kudryavtsev.

    The DNA of Russia survey is conducted by the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation as part of the state assignment “Organizational and methodological support for research into the socio-psychological well-being of students and employees of higher education institutions using a digital survey system, automated data collection and analysis.” A total of six online surveys are planned for this year.

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

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    http://www.spbgasu.ru/nevs-and-events/nevs/students-spbgasu-participating-in-a-survey-DNA-Russia/

    EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and or sentence structure not be perfect.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: KZN emergency services ready to assist residents 

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    The KwaZulu-Natal provincial government has instructed relevant departments and emergency services to prioritise clearing affected routes and assisting stranded road users amid the adverse weather conditions in the province.

    Addressing the media on the provincial government’s interventions in response to the current severe weather conditions impacting the province, Acting Premier Thembeni Madlopha-Mthethwa, said the Provincial Executive Council (EXCO) has decided that immediate interventions must be focused on the routes most affected by the heavy snowfall.

    “This decision is aimed at ensuring the safety of motorists and facilitating the swift restoration of normal travel conditions in these areas,” Madlopha-Mthethwa said on Sunday.

    Madlopha-Mthethwa highlighted that the provincial government responded swiftly to the ongoing heavy snowfall affecting various parts of the province, and in coordination with all relevant stakeholders, emergency response measures have been activated to ensure the safety and well-being of citizens and motorists.

    As part of the provincial government’s response, officers from the Road Traffic Inspectorate (RTI) have been activated to assist motorists navigating treacherous roads.

    “The Road Traffic Inspectorate and Provincial Emergency Services have been deployed to assist motorists stranded on roads impacted by the snowfall. These teams are working tirelessly to ensure safe passage and provide assistance where necessary.

    “The Municipal Parks Department is on standby to remove tree debris from affected roads and areas. Furthermore, we are collaborating with non-governmental organisations such as the Red Cross and the Al Imdaad Foundation, who are providing food, water, and hot meals to stranded motorists.”

    Provincial agencies, including the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) and the Department of Social Development, are actively profiling affected families and offering immediate relief.

    “Social workers have also been deployed to offer psycho-social support, social welfare services, and child protection services to those in need. Eskom and municipal electrical departments are on the ground, working to restore power where outages have occurred.

    “Additionally, SAPS [South African Police Service] and SANDF [South African National Defence Force] are on standby with helicopters to assist in delivering hot meals and evacuating individuals in severely impacted areas.
    “Line function departments such as Health, Education, Agriculture, EDTEA [Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs], Transport, and Human Settlements have activated their contingency plans to ensure that the needs of affected communities are met swiftly and efficiently,” Madlopha-Mthethwa explained.

    The provincial government has also called on all citizens to exercise caution considering the heavy snowfall and rain currently affecting the province.

    Madlopha-Mthethwa urged residents to remain vigilant, follow safety guidelines, and avoid unnecessary travel to ensure their safety during these challenging weather conditions.

    “The provincial government remains committed to mitigating the impact of the storm and providing continuous support to affected communities. Further updates will be provided as the situation evolves,” Madlopha-Mthethwa said.

    READ | Government prioritises providing shelter for stranded motorists in anticipation of more snow

    Roads reopened

    Meanwhile, following the deployment of more graders, most routes affected by snow were reopened on Sunday evening.

    These include the N11 Ladysmith to Newcastle; N11 Amajuba Pass; R33 Vryheid to Dundee, water damping on the road at Cotswold; R34 Newcastle to Bloodriver/Vryheid; R33 Vryheid to Paulpietersburg; R34 Vryheid to Melmoth; R69 Vryheid to Pongola; and N2 Richards Bay to Piet Retief.

    The R34 Newcastle to Memel is closed.

    Motorists have been requested to cancel any unnecessary travel.

    READ | Tips for safer driving on icy roads

    The provincial government extended its appreciation to the private sector and many other non-governmental organisations that are taking part in the important rescue operation.

    “As [the] provincial government we wish to extend deepest condolences to the family of the victims who tragically lost their lives due to hypothermia during the recent snowstorm. Our thoughts and prayers are with the bereaved family during this incredibly difficult time.

    “The provincial government stands ready to offer support to the affected family, and we continue to work diligently to ensure the safety of all citizens amid these extreme weather conditions,” Madlopha-Mthethwa said. – SAnews.gov.za
     

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Health Bureau designates operator of Greater Bay Area International Clinical Trial Institute through open tender

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Health Bureau designates operator of Greater Bay Area International Clinical Trial Institute through open tender
    Health Bureau designates operator of Greater Bay Area International Clinical Trial Institute through open tender
    ******************************************************************************************

         The Health Bureau (HHB) announced today (September 23) that, after months of preparation with full effort since the Chief Executive put forward in the Policy Address last October the establishment of the Greater Bay Area International Clinical Trial Institute (GBAICTI) in the Hong Kong Park of the Hetao Shenzhen-Hong Kong Science and Technology Innovation Co-operation Zone (i.e. the Hong Kong-Shenzhen Innovation and Technology Park), the GBAICTI is anticipated to come into full operation in the fourth quarter of this year at the Central Government-Aided Emergency Hospital in the Hetao area upon completion of the construction of its temporary office and biobank therein. The GBAICTI plans to move into one of the wet laboratory-enabled buildings, which is expected to complete construction later in the Hong Kong-Shenzhen Innovation and Technology Park, with a view to enhancing Hong Kong’s innovation and technology ecosystem in a proactive manner.     The HHB established the Greater Bay Area International Clinical Trial Institute Limited in the second quarter of this year and designated the LKS Faculty of Medicine of the University of Hong Kong through an open tender process in the third quarter to operate the GBAICTI. The Greater Bay Area International Clinical Trial Institute Limited is wholly owned by the Government to oversee the work of the operator and effectively supervise the operations of the GBAICTI.     Clinical trials are an important process in translating basic research on drug and medical device innovation into marketing authorisation and clinical application. The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) has high-quality healthcare professions, and a considerable amount of high-quality research data generated by local clinical trials over the years has been widely recognised by drug regulatory authorities both on the Mainland and abroad. The GBAICTI will serve as a one-stop clinical trial support platform to co-ordinate and integrate clinical trial resources in Hong Kong’s public and private sectors, including universities, the Hospital Authority and private healthcare facilities, to give impetus to the development of clinical trials on all fronts.     The Secretary for Health, Professor Lo Chung-mau, said, “The establishment of the GBAICTI in the strategic location of the Hetao area can combine the strengths of Hong Kong and the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA), and leverage the development positioning of the Hetao Area for technology innovation and institutional innovation as well as the related cross-boundary facilitation measures, to provide multinational pharmaceutical enterprises, Mainland innovative biopharmaceutical enterprises, hospitals and research institutions with more efficient services, encouraging them to conduct clinical trials in Hong Kong and the GBA, thereby expediting the translation of research results. We hope that this will attract more pharmaceutical and medical device enterprises within and outside Hong Kong to conduct clinical trials in Hong Kong to further enhance the city’s capacity, recognition and status in terms of clinical trials and support a progressive transition to a primary evaluation approach for drug registration in Hong Kong.”     The National 14th Five-Year Plan has expressed clear support to develop Hong Kong into an international innovation and technology hub. The Development Plan for Shenzhen Park of Hetao Shenzhen-Hong Kong Science and Technology Innovation Co-operation Zone promulgated by the State Council in August last year also indicated clear support for the co-ordinated development of the Hong Kong Park and the Shenzhen Park under the “one zone, two parks” model to promote the innovative application of cutting-edge biomedical technologies. The GBAICTI in the Hong Kong Park and the Greater Bay Area International Clinical Trial Centre in the Shenzhen Park will join forces to synergise the development of clinical trials, drive co-operation among the clinical trial networks of the HKSAR and the Mainland (the GBA in particular), and at the same time co-ordinate clinical trial work of both places to comply with national and international standards.     The GBAICTI will formulate work plans on initiatives including talent training, optimisation of processes and collaboration in the GBA. Details will be announced in due course.

     
    Ends/Monday, September 23, 2024Issued at HKT 18:01

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Sellafield apprentice nominated for prestigious award

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Lucy Jarvis is a finalist in the Apprentice of the Year category at the Engineering Construction Industry Training and Development Awards.

    Lucy Jarvis, Sellafield Ltd

    Lucy, from Cockermouth, West Cumbria, is a technical degree apprentice and started at Sellafield Ltd in 2022.

    She works in a team managing quality assurance documents which ensure nuclear safety is protected when nuclear waste is packaged and stored.

    One of the highlights of her apprenticeship so far, was being involved in a project designed to overcome robot obsolescence on the Sellafield site.

    Another was representing Sellafield Ltd at the Nuclear Week in Parliament Skills and Apprenticeship Fair 2023.

    She said:

    I was quite surprised when I found out about the nomination. It was a really exciting time when I got the email and I’m looking forward to attending the ceremony.

    I’ve really enjoyed my apprenticeship so far. There have been lots of opportunities to network with different people and learn from subject matter experts. There’s a vast range of roles to venture into and my manager has been really supportive of my development throughout.

    The Sellafield Education and Skills team have been really supportive, they helped to arrange trips to the Vandellos reactor site in Barcelona and the CERN research centre in Switzerland as well as many national EDF sites.

    These visits have allowed me to reach my level 6 apprenticeship competencies as well as gain knowledge from other areas in the sector.

    But Lucy isn’t resting on her laurels, she already has plans for future career development.

    She said:

    Next year I will be starting my secondment in project management at Sellafield, and I will be finishing my foundation degree and starting my degree in plant engineering.

    The Engineering Construction Industry Training and Development Awards are an annual celebration of outstanding achievements in skill enhancement, highlighting exceptional young talent in the sector.

    Lucy will find out if she’s been successful at a ceremony in London on 5 November 2024.

    Her nomination is the third piece of good news for Sellafield’s apprentice scheme in as many months.

    In July, the company was named one of the top 100 apprenticeship employers in England.

    And earlier this month, another 300 vocational and degree apprentices and 150 graduates joined the business.

    The bumper intake underlined Sellafield Ltd’s commitment to investing in young careers and nurturing future talent to ensure the company continues to drive towards its century-long clean up mission.

    Michelle Lambon-Wilks, head of education and skills for Sellafield Ltd, said:

    We’re so proud of Lucy’s achievements. We’re all crossing our fingers she wins the award.

    But even if she doesn’t, she’s still a fabulous role model for other apprentices and young people considering a career in our industry.

    We’ll begin recruiting for next year’s cohort of apprentices in November 2024. Lucy is an example of how far you can go if you’re willing to take a chance and push yourself to achieve.

    Further reading

    Hundreds of new starters begin their careers at Sellafield

    Sellafield Ltd careers – graduates, placements and apprenticeships

    6 things that might surprise you about being a graduate engineer at Sellafield

    How to join our talent community

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 September 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: For Immediate Release: DHS HOSTS DISASTER CASE MANAGEMENT PROGRAM OUTREACH EVENT FOR MAUI WILDFIRE SURVIVORS IN NEED OF SUPPORT

    Source: US State of Hawaii

    For Immediate Release: DHS HOSTS DISASTER CASE MANAGEMENT PROGRAM OUTREACH EVENT FOR MAUI WILDFIRE SURVIVORS IN NEED OF SUPPORT

    Posted on Sep 22, 2024 in Latest Department News, Newsroom

    DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES 

    KA ʻOIHANA MĀLAMA LAWELAWE KANAKA 

     

    JOSH GREEN, M.D.

    GOVERNOR

    KE KIAʻĀINA

     

    RYAN I. YAMANE

    DIRECTOR 

    KA LUNA HOʻOKELE

     

    JOSEPH CAMPOS II 

    DEPUTY DIRECTOR 

    KA HOPE LUNA HOʻOKELE 

       

     TRISTA SPEER 

    DEPUTY DIRECTOR 

    KA HOPE LUNA HOʻOKELE 

     

     

     

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    September 22, 2024

     

    DHS HOSTS DISASTER CASE MANAGEMENT PROGRAM OUTREACH EVENT FOR MAUI WILDFIRE SURVIVORS IN NEED OF SUPPORT

    Case Managers Provided Vital Guidance and Enrolled Survivors in the Program

    HONOLULU — The Hawaiʻi Department of Human Services (DHS) hosted an outreach event with more than 25 community partners in Kahului for wildfire survivors to learn more about the Disaster Case Management Program (DCMP).

    The DCMP connects survivors of disasters with specially trained disaster case managers (DCMs) to help assess and address their needs through a disaster recovery plan, which includes resources, decision-making priorities, providing guidance and tools. A DCM acts as a ‘quarterback’ to help survivors navigate their recovery and will continue to assist survivors for up to five years.

     

    More than 700 people attended yesterday’s event, including DCMP partners and members of the Maui community, and Maui wildfire survivors interested in the program were welcomed to learn more about services available to them. DCMs answered questions and immediately enrolled more than 100 survivors in the program at the event located at the University of Hawaiʻi Maui College.

    The DCMP recently received an additional $7.9 million in funding to expand the program, bringing its total funding to $26.8 million and enabling the program to grow by more than double – increasing its potential reach to serve approximately 3,000 households at a time. The DCMP has already made a significant difference for the Maui community, helping more than 5,000 individuals to date.

    “Thank you to the Maui community and all of our great partners. We are so grateful to everyone that has helped to make the DCMP a success and look forward to continuing to help connect survivors with the crucial services they need,” said DCMP Director Jen Monaghan. “The DCMP is making a difference for people every day and we are actively expanding the program. We encourage any survivors in need of supports and resources to attend these kinds of outreach events or simply call 211 to enroll in the program immediately.”

    Maui wildfire survivors who are interested in enrolling in the DCMP are encouraged to call 211. Hours of operation are from 7:00 a.m. through 10:00 p.m. seven days a week.

    ###

    Media Contact:

    Amanda Stevens

    Public Information Officer

    Department of Human Services

    [email protected]

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom issues legislative update 9.22.24

    Source: US State of California 2

    Sep 22, 2024

    SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced that he has signed the following bills:
     

    • AB 262 by Assemblymember Chris R. Holden (D-Pasadena) – Children’s camps: safety and regulation.
    • AB 460 by Assemblymember Rebecca Bauer-Kahan (D-Orinda) – State Water Resources Control Board: water rights and usage: civil penalties.
    • AB 672 by Assemblymember Dr. Corey Jackson (D-Moreno Valley) – Civil Rights Department: community assistance.
    • AB 761 by Assemblymember Laura Friedman (D-Glendale) – Local finance: enhanced infrastructure financing districts.
    • AB 938 by Assemblymember Al Muratsuchi (D-Torrance) – Education finance: classified and certificated staff salaries.
    • AB 1005 by Assemblymember David Alvarez (D-San Diego) – In-home supportive services: terminal illness diagnosis.
    • AB 1038 by Assemblymember Mike Fong (D-Alhambra) – Surplus residential property: City of Pasadena: City of South Pasadena.
    • AB 1042 by Assemblymember Rebecca Bauer-Kahan (D-Orinda) – Pesticide treated seed: labeling.
    • AB 1142 by Assemblymember Mike Fong (D-Alhambra) – Community colleges: costs for using facilities or grounds.
    • AB 1246 by Assemblymember Stephanie Nguyen (D-Elk Grove) – Public employees’ retirement: Public Employees’ Retirement System optional settlements.
    • AB 1472 by Assemblymember David Alvarez (D-San Diego) – City of Imperial Beach: recreational vehicle parks: registration requirements.
    • AB 1511 by Assemblymember Miguel Santiago (D-Los Angeles) – State government: diverse, ethnic, and community media.
    • AB 1533 by the Committee on Utilities and Energy – Electricity.
    • AB 1768 by the Committee on Governmental Organization – Horse racing.
    • AB 1784 by Assemblymember Gail Pellerin (D-Santa Cruz) – Primary elections: candidate withdrawals.
    • AB 1808 by Assemblymember Stephanie Nguyen (D-Elk Grove) – Childcare and development services: eligibility.
    • AB 1819 by Assemblymember Marie Waldron (R-Valley Center) – Enhanced infrastructure financing districts: public capital facilities: wildfires.
    • AB 1820 by Assemblymember Pilar Schiavo (D-Chatsworth) – Housing development projects: applications: fees and exactions.
    • AB 1827 by Assemblymember Diane Papan (D-San Mateo) – Local government: fees and charges: water: higher consumptive water parcels.
    • AB 1828 by Assemblymember Marie Waldron (R-Valley Center) – Personal income taxes: voluntary contributions: Endangered and Rare Fish, Wildlife, and Plant Species Conservation and Enhancement Account: Native California Wildlife Rehabilitation Voluntary Tax Contribution Fund: covered grants.
    • AB 1862 by Assemblymember Phillip Chen (R-Yorba Linda) – Engineering, land surveying, and architecture: limited liability partnerships.
    • AB 1891 by Assemblymember Dr. Akilah Weber (D-San Diego) – Community colleges: allied health programs.
    • AB 1892 by Assemblymember Heath Flora (R-Modesto) – Interception of electronic communications.
    • AB 1901 by Assemblymember Phillip Chen (R-Yorba Linda) – Vehicles: total loss claim: salvage certificate or nonrepairable vehicle certificate.
    • AB 1937 by Assemblymember Marc Berman (D-Menlo Park) – State parks: Pedro Point.
    • AB 1946 by Assemblymember Juan Alanis (R-Modesto) – Horse racing: out-of-state thoroughbred races: Whitney Stakes.
    • AB 1962 by Assemblymember Marc Berman (D-Menlo Park) – Crimes: disorderly conduct.
    • AB 1984 by Assemblymember Dr. Akilah Weber (D-San Diego) – Pupil discipline: transfer reporting.
    • AB 1991 by Assemblymember Mia Bonta (D-Oakland) – Licensee and registrant renewal: National Provider Identifier.
    • AB 2015 by Assemblymember Pilar Schiavo (D-Chatsworth) – Nursing schools and programs: faculty members, directors, and assistant directors.
    • AB 2021 by Assemblymember Rebecca Bauer-Kahan (D-Orinda) – Crimes: selling or furnishing tobacco or related products and paraphernalia to underage persons.
    • AB 2041 by Assemblymember Mia Bonta (D-Oakland) – Political Reform Act of 1974: campaign funds: security expenses.
    • AB 2046 by Assemblymember Isaac Bryan (D-Los Angeles) – Educational programs: single gender schools and classes.
    • AB 2072 by Assemblymember Dr. Akilah Weber (D-San Diego) – Group health care coverage: biomedical industry.
    • AB 2073 by Assemblymember Sharon Quirk-Silva (D-Fullerton) – Physical education courses: alternate term schedules.
    • AB 2081 by Assemblymember Laurie Davies (R-Laguna Niguel) – Substance abuse: recovery and treatment programs.
    • AB 2091 by Assemblymember Tim Grayson (D-Concord) – California Environmental Quality Act: exemption: public access: nonmotorized recreation.
    • AB 2127 by Assemblymember Marc Berman (D-Menlo Park) – Voter registration: California New Motor Voter Program.
    • AB 2130 by Assemblymember Miguel Santiago (D-Los Angeles) – Parking violations.
    • AB 2131 by Assemblymember Avelino Valencia (D-Anaheim) – Certified nurse assistant training programs.
    • AB 2134 by Assemblymember Al Muratsuchi (D-Torrance) – School employees: transfer of leave of absence for illness or injury.
    • AB 2137 by Assemblymember Sharon Quirk-Silva (D-Fullerton) – Homeless and foster youth.
    • AB 2159 by Assemblymember Brian Maienschein (D-San Diego) – Common interest developments: association governance: elections.
    • AB 2166 by Assemblymember Dr. Akilah Weber (D-San Diego) – Barbering and cosmetology: hair types and textures.
    • AB 2176 by Assemblymember Marc Berman (D-Menlo Park) – Juvenile court schools: chronic absenteeism rates.
    • AB 2198 by Assemblymember Heath Flora (R-Modesto) – Health information.
    • AB 2247 by Assemblymember Greg Wallis (R-Palm Springs) – Mobilehome Parks Act: enforcement: notice of violations: Manufactured Housing Opportunity and Revitalization (MORE) Program: annual fee.
    • AB 2276 by Assemblymember Jim Wood (D-Healdsburg) – Forestry: timber harvesting plans: exemptions.
    • AB 2302 by Assemblymember Dawn Addis (D-Morro Bay) – Open meetings: local agencies: teleconferences.
    • AB 2324 by Assemblymember Juan Alanis (R-Modesto) – Avocados: sale or donation by the Secretary of Food and Agriculture.
    • AB 2327 by Assemblymember Wendy Carrillo (D-Los Angeles) – Optometry: mobile optometric offices.
    • AB 2337 by Assemblymember Diane Dixon (R-Newport Beach) – Workers’ compensation: electronic signatures.
    • AB 2359 by Assemblymember Philip Ting (D-San Francisco) – Alcoholic beverage control: neighborhood-restricted special on-sale general licenses.
    • AB 2364 by Assemblymember Luz Rivas (D-Sylmar) – Property service worker protection.
    • AB 2373 by Assemblymember Anthony Rendon (D-Lakewood) – Mobilehomes: tenancies.
    • AB 2387 by Assemblymember Gail Pellerin (D-Santa Cruz) – Mobilehome parks: additional lots: exemption from additional fees or charges.
    • AB 2399 by Assemblymember Anthony Rendon (D-Lakewood) – Mobilehome park residences: rental agreements: Mobilehome Residency Law Protection Program.
    • AB 2434 by Assemblymember Tim Grayson (D-Concord) – Health care coverage: multiple employer welfare arrangements.
    • AB 2453 by Assemblymember Carlos Villapudua (D-Stockton) – Weights and measures: electric vehicle supply equipment.
    • AB 2457 by Assemblymember Kevin McCarty (D-Sacramento) – Sacramento Municipal Utility District: nonstock security.
    • AB 2460 by Assemblymember Tri Ta (R-Westminster) – Common interest developments: association governance: member election.
    • AB 2469 by the Committee on Emergency Management – Emergency Management Assistance Compact: California Wildfire Mitigation Financial Assistance Program.
    • AB 2496 by Assemblymember Gail Pellerin (D-Santa Cruz) – Foster family agencies and noncustodial adoption agencies.
    • AB 2500 by Assemblymember Mike Fong (D-Alhambra) – Student financial aid: application deadlines: postponement.
    • AB 2511 by Assemblymember Marc Berman (D-Menlo Park) – Beverage container recycling: market development payments.
    • AB 2522 by Assemblymember Wendy Carrillo (D-Los Angeles) – Air districts: governing boards: compensation.
    • AB 2543 by Assemblymember Dr. Joaquin Arambula (D-Fresno) – Small Business Procurement and Contract Act: eligibility.
    • AB 2546 by Assemblymember Anthony Rendon (D-Lakewood) – Law enforcement and state agencies: military equipment: funding, acquisition, and use.
    • AB 2561 by Assemblymember Tina McKinnor (D-Inglewood) – Local public employees: vacant positions.
    • AB 2574 by Assemblymember Avelino Valencia (D-Anaheim) – Alcoholism or drug abuse recovery or treatment programs and facilities: disclosures.
    • AB 2599 by the Committee on Environmental Safety and Toxic Materials – Water: public beaches: discontinuation of residential water service.
    • AB 2664 by Assemblymember Isaac Bryan (D-Los Angeles) – Foster youth.
    • AB 2666 by Assemblymember Tasha Boerner (D-Encinitas) – Public utilities: rate of return.
    • AB 2678 by Assemblymember Greg Wallis (R-Palm Springs) – Vehicles: high-occupancy vehicle lanes.
    • AB 2712 by Assemblymember Laura Friedman (D-Glendale) – Preferential parking privileges: transit-oriented development.
    • AB 2817 by Assemblymember Diane Dixon (R-Newport Beach) – State highways: Route 1: relinquishment.
    • AB 2830 by Assemblymember Robert Rivas (D-Salinas) – Foster care: relative placement: approval process.
    • AB 2834 by Assemblymember Anthony Rendon (D-Lakewood) – Public postsecondary education: part-time faculty.
    • AB 2887 by Assemblymember Brian Maienschein (D-San Diego) – School safety plans: medical emergency procedures.
    • AB 2898 by Assemblymember Wendy Carrillo (D-Los Angeles) – Unbundled parking: exemptions: Housing Choice Vouchers.
    • AB 2902 by Assemblymember Jim Wood (D-Healdsburg) – Solid waste: reduction and recycling.
    • AB 2931 by Assemblymember Mike Fong (D-Alhambra) – Community colleges: classified employees: merit system: part-time student-tutors.
    • AB 2939 by Assemblymember Anthony Rendon (D-Lakewood) – Parks: counties and cities: interpretive services.
    • AB 2951 by Assemblymember Sabrina Cervantes (D-Riverside) – Voter registration: cancellation.
    • AB 2971 by Assemblymember Brian Maienschein (D-San Diego) – Classified Employee Staffing Ratio Workgroup: community college districts.
    • AB 2991 by Assemblymember Avelino Valencia (D-Anaheim) – Alcoholic beverage control: retailer payments: electronic funds transfers.
    • AB 3025 by Assemblymember Avelino Valencia (D-Anaheim) – County employees’ retirement: disallowed compensation: benefit adjustments.
    • AB 3042 by Assemblymember Stephanie Nguyen (D-Elk Grove) – County penalties.
    • AB 3069 by Assemblymember Laurie Davies (R-Laguna Niguel) – Tied-house restrictions: advertising exceptions: City of Oceanside.
    • AB 3087 by Assemblymember Mike Fong (D-Alhambra) – California Community Colleges Economic and Workforce Development Program.
    • AB 3100 by Assemblymember Evan Low (D-Campbell) – Assumption of mortgage loans: dissolution of marriage.
    • AB 3116 by Assemblymember Eduardo Garcia (D-Coachella) – Housing development: density bonuses: student housing developments.
    • AB 3119 by Assemblymember Evan Low (D-Campbell) – Physicians and surgeons, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants: continuing medical education: infection-associated chronic conditions.
    • AB 3131 by Assemblymember Kevin McCarty (D-Sacramento) – Strong Workforce Program: applicants receiving equity multiplier funding.
    • AB 3158 by Assemblymember Marc Berman (D-Menlo Park) – Community colleges: West Valley-Mission Community College District.
    • AB 3177 by Assemblymember Wendy Carrillo (D-Los Angeles) – Mitigation Fee Act: land dedications: mitigating vehicular traffic impacts.
    • AB 3184 by Assemblymember Marc Berman (D-Menlo Park) – Elections: signature verification statements, unsigned ballot identification statements, and reports of ballot rejections.
    • AB 3234 by Assemblymember Liz Ortega (D-San Leandro) – Employers: social compliance audit.
    • AB 3261 by Assemblymember Mike Fong (D-Alhambra) – Horse racing: out-of-state thoroughbred races.
    • AB 3290 by the Committee on Higher Education – Public postsecondary education.
    • AB 3291 by the Committee on Human Services – Developmental services.
    • SB 98 by Senator Anthony Portantino (D-Burbank) – Education finance: local control funding formula: enrollment-based funding report.
    • SB 382 by Senator Josh Becker (D-Menlo Park) – Single-family residential property: disclosures.
    • SB 577 by Senator Melissa Hurtado (D-Sanger) – Insurance.
    • SB 689 by Senator Catherine Blakespear (D-Encinitas) – Local coastal program: bicycle lane: amendment.
    • SB 708 by Senator Brian W. Jones (R-San Diego) – Vehicles: off-highway motor vehicles: off-highway motorcycles: sanctioned event permit.
    • SB 778 by Senator Rosilicie Ochoa Bogh (R-Yucaipa) – Excavations: subsurface installations.
    • SB 819 by Senator Susan Talamantes Eggman (D-Stockton) – Medi-Cal: certification.
    • SB 863 by Senator Ben Allen (D-Santa Monica) – Measures proposed by the Legislature.
    • SB 977 by Senator John Laird (D-Santa Cruz) – County of San Luis Obispo Redistricting Commission.
    • SB 978 by Senator Kelly Seyarto (R-Murrieta) – State government: budget: state publications: format.
    • SB 1046 by Senator John Laird (D-Santa Cruz) – Organic waste reduction: program environmental impact report: small and medium compostable material handling facilities or operations.
    • SB 1053 by Senator Catherine Blakespear (D-Encinitas) – Solid waste: recycled paper bags: standards: carryout bag prohibition.
    • SB 1077 by Senator Catherine Blakespear (D-Encinitas) – Coastal resources: local coastal program: amendments: accessory and junior accessory dwelling units.
    • SB 1106 by Senator Susan Rubio (D-Baldwin Park) – The Kasem-Nichols-Rooney Law.
    • SB 1117 by Senator John Laird (D-Santa Cruz) – Organic products.
    • SB 1130 by Senator Steven Bradford (D-Gardena) – Electricity: Family Electric Rate Assistance program.
    • SB 1156 by Senator Melissa Hurtado (D-Sanger) – Groundwater sustainability agencies: conflicts of interest: financial interest disclosures.
    • SB 1158 by Senator Bob Archuleta (D-Pico Rivera) – Carl Moyer Memorial Air Quality Standards Attainment Program.
    • SB 1193 by Senator Caroline Menjivar (D-San Fernando Valley/Burbank) – Airports: leaded aviation gasoline.
    • SB 1225 by Senator Brian W. Jones (R-San Diego) – Real estate appraisers: disciplinary information: petitions.
    • SB 1230 by Senator Susan Rubio (D-Baldwin Park) – Strengthen Tobacco Oversight Programs (STOP) and Seize Illegal Tobacco Products Act.
    • SB 1248 by Senator Melissa Hurtado (D-Sanger) – Pupil health: extreme weather conditions: physical activity.
    • SB 1251 by Senator Henry Stern (D-Los Angeles) – Mosquito abatement inspections.
    • SB 1254 by Senator Josh Becker (D-Menlo Park) – CalFresh: enrollment of incarcerated individuals.
    • SB 1280 by Senator John Laird (D-Santa Cruz) – Waste management: propane cylinders: reusable or refillable.
    • SB 1304 by Senator Monique Limόn (D-Santa Barbara) – Underground injection control: aquifer exemption.
    • SB 1315 by Senator Bob Archuleta (D-Pico Rivera) – School accountability: local educational agencies: annual reporting requirements.
    • SB 1321 by Senator Aisha Wahab (D-Silicon Valley) – Employment Training Panel: employment training program: projects and proposals.
    • SB 1324 by Senator Monique Limόn (D-Santa Barbara) – California Ocean Science Trust: agreements.
    • SB 1329 by the Committee on Education – Elementary and secondary education: omnibus.
    • SB 1333 by Senator Susan Talamantes Eggman (D-Stockton) – Communicable diseases: HIV reporting.
    • SB 1336 by Senator Bob Archuleta (D-Pico Rivera) – Department of General Services: state property: Metropolitan State Hospital.
    • SB 1367 by Senator Melissa Hurtado (D-Sanger) – Agriculture: commercial feed: inspection tonnage tax: research and education.
    • SB 1399 by Senator Henry Stern (D-Los Angeles) – Transfer of real property: transfer fees.
    • SB 1410 by Senator Rosilicie Ochoa Bogh (R-Yucaipa) – Pupil instruction: curriculum frameworks: mathematics: algebra. A signing message can be found here.
    • SB 1429 by Senator Rosilicie Ochoa Bogh (R-Yucaipa) – Education finance: emergencies: snowstorms.
    • SB 1440 by Senator John Laird (D-Santa Cruz) – School operations: 4-day school week.
    • SB 1441 by Senator Ben Allen (D-Santa Monica) – Examination of petitions: time limitations and reimbursement of costs.
    • SB 1450 by Senator Ben Allen (D-Santa Monica) – Elections.
    • SB 1451 by Senator Angelique Ashby (D-Sacramento) – Professions and vocations.
    • SB 1452 by Senator Angelique Ashby (D-Sacramento) – Architecture and landscape architecture.
    • SB 1453 by Senator Angelique Ashby (D-Sacramento) – Dentistry.
    • SB 1454 by Senator Angelique Ashby (D-Sacramento) – Bureau of Security and Investigative Services: sunset.
    • SB 1455 by Senator Angelique Ashby (D-Sacramento) – Contractors: licensing.
    • SB 1456 by Senator Angelique Ashby (D-Sacramento) – State Athletic Commission Act.
    • SB 1465 by Senator Bob Archuleta (D-Pico Rivera) – State building standards.
    • SB 1468 by Senator Rosilicie Ochoa Bogh (R-Yucaipa) – Healing arts boards: informational and educational materials for prescribers of narcotics: federal “Three Day Rule.”
    • SB 1476 by Senator Catherine Blakespear (D-Encinitas) – Political Reform Act of 1974: State Bar of California.
    • SB 1491 by Senator Susan Talamantes Eggman (D-Stockton) – Postsecondary education: Equity in Higher Education Act.
    • SB 1500 by Senator María Elena Durazo (D-Los Angeles) – Housing: federal waiver: income eligibility.
    • SB 1511 by the Committee on Health – Health omnibus.
    • SB 1512 by the Committee on Housing – Housing omnibus.
    • SB 1514 by the Committee on Local Government – Local Government Omnibus Act of 2024.
    • SB 1518 by the Committee on Public Safety – Public safety omnibus.
    • SB 1523 by the Committee on Governmental Organization – Gambling: lotteries.
    • SB 1526 by the Committee on Business, Professions and Economic Development – Consumer affairs.
    • SB 1527 by the Committee on Revenue and Taxation – Property taxation: exemption: low-value properties and tribal housing.
    • SB 1528 by the Committee on Revenue and Taxation – California Department of Tax and Fee Administration.

    The Governor also announced that he has vetoed the following bills:
     

    • AB 544 by Assemblymember Isaac Bryan (D-Los Angeles) – Voting pilot program: county jails. A veto message can be found here. 
    • AB 832 by Assemblymember Sabrina Cervantes (D-Riverside) – California Transportation Commission: membership. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 884 by Assemblymember Evan Low (D-Campbell) – Elections: language accessibility. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 1738 by Assemblymember Wendy Carrillo (D-Los Angeles) – Mobile Homeless Connect Pilot Program. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 1817 by Assemblymember Juan Alanis (R-Modesto) – Homeless youth. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 1834 by Assemblymember Eduardo Garcia (D-Coachella) – Resource adequacy: Electricity Supply Strategic Reliability Reserve Program. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 1918 by Assemblymember Jim Wood (D-Healdsburg) – Solar-ready and photovoltaic and battery storage system requirements: exemption. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 1919 by Assemblymember Dr. Akilah Weber (D-San Diego) – Pupil discipline: suspension: restorative justice practices. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 1947 by Assemblymember Luz Rivas (D-Sylmar) – California state preschool programs: contracting agencies: staff training days. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 1977 by Assemblymember Tri Ta (R-Westminster) – Health care coverage: behavioral diagnoses. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 1992 by Assemblymember Tasha Boerner (D-Encinitas) – Carbon sequestration: blue carbon and teal carbon demonstration projects. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 2022 by Assemblymember Dawn Addis (D-Morro Bay) – Mobilehome parks: emergency preparedness. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 2038 by Assemblymember Sharon Quirk-Silva (D-Fullerton) – State parks: outdoor equity programs. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 2088 by Assemblymember Kevin McCarty (D-Sacramento) – K–14 classified employees: part-time or full-time vacancies: public postings. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 2093 by Assemblymember Miguel Santiago (D-Los Angeles) – Community colleges: California College Promise: fee waiver eligibility. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 2103 by Assemblymember Gail Pellerin (D-Santa Cruz) – Department of Parks and Recreation: Big Basin Redwoods, Año Nuevo, and Butano State Parks: real property acquisition. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 2120 by Assemblymember Phillip Chen (R-Yorba Linda) – Trespass. A veto message can be found here. 
    • AB 2214 by Assemblymember Rebecca Bauer-Kahan (D-Orinda) – Ocean Protection Council: microplastics. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 2250 by Assemblymember Dr. Akilah Weber (D-San Diego) – Social determinants of health: screening and outreach. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 2263 by Assemblymember Laura Friedman (D-Glendale) – The California Guaranteed Income Statewide Feasibility Study Act. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 2271 by Assemblymember Liz Ortega (D-San Leandro) – St. Rose Hospital. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 2277 by Assemblymember Greg Wallis (R-Palm Springs) – Community colleges: part-time faculty. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 2330 by Assemblymember Chris R. Holden (D-Pasadena) – Endangered species: incidental take: wildfire preparedness activities. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 2401 by Assemblymember Philip Ting (D-San Francisco) – Clean Cars 4 All Program. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 2448 by Assemblymember Dr. Corey Jackson (D-Moreno Valley) – Electric Vehicle Economic Opportunity Zone: County of Riverside. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 2537 by Assemblymember Dawn Addis (D-Morro Bay) – Energy: Voluntary Offshore Wind and Coastal Resources Protection Program: community capacity funding activities and grants. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 2538 by Assemblymember Tim Grayson (D-Concord) – Department of Forestry and Fire Protection: seasonal firefighters. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 2586 by Assemblymember David Alvarez (D-San Diego) – Public postsecondary education: student employment. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 2637 by Assemblymember Pilar Schiavo (D-Chatsworth) – Health Facilities Financing Authority Act. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 2677 by Assemblymember Phillip Chen (R-Yorba Linda) – Sureties: liability. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 2681 by Assemblymember Dr. Akilah Weber (D-San Diego) – Weapons: robotic devices. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 2910 by Assemblymember Miguel Santiago (D-Los Angeles) – State Housing Law: City of Los Angeles: conversion of nonresidential buildings. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 3023 by Assemblymember Diane Papan (D-San Mateo) – Wildfire and Forest Resilience Task Force: interagency funding strategy: multiple benefit projects: grant program guidelines. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 3034 by Assemblymember Evan Low (D-Campbell) – Public postsecondary education: waiver of tuition and fees: California Conservation Corps. A veto message can be found here.
    • SB 571 by Senator Ben Allen (D-Santa Monica) – Fire safety: ingress and egress route recommendations: report. A veto message can be found here.
    • SB 936 by Senator Kelly Seyarto (R-Murrieta) – Department of Transportation: study: state highway system: road safety projects. A veto message can be found here.
    • SB 983 by Senator Aisha Wahab (D-Silicon Valley) – Energy: gasoline stations and alternative fuel infrastructure. A veto message can be found here.
    • SB 1108 by Senator Rosilicie Ochoa Bogh (R-Yucaipa) – Mobilehome parks: notice of violations. A veto message can be found here.
    • SB 1118 by Senator Susan Talamantes Eggman (D-Stockton) – Solar on Multifamily Affordable Housing Program. A veto message can be found here.
    • SB 1133 by Senator Josh Becker (D-Menlo Park) – Bail. A veto message can be found here.
    • SB 1170 by Senator Caroline Menjivar (D-San Fernando Valley/Burbank) – Political Reform Act of 1974: campaign funds. A veto message can be found here.
    • SB 1182 by Senator Lena Gonzalez (D-Long Beach) – Master Plan for Healthy, Sustainable, and Climate-Resilient Schools. A veto message can be found here.
    • SB 1220 by Senator Monique Limόn (D-Santa Barbara) – Public benefits contracts: phone operator jobs. A veto message can be found here.
    • SB 1292 by Senator Steven Bradford (D-Gardena) – Electricity: fixed charges: report. A veto message can be found here.
    • SB 1369 by Senator Monique Limόn (D-Santa Barbara) – Dental providers: fee-based payments. A veto message can be found here.
    • SB 1375 by Senator María Elena Durazo (D-Los Angeles) – Workforce development: records: poverty-reducing labor standards: funds, programs, reporting, and analyses. A veto message can be found here.
    • SB 1383 by Senator Steven Bradford (D-Gardena) – California Advanced Services Fund: Broadband Public Housing Account. A veto message can be found here.
    • SB 1411 by Senator Rosilicie Ochoa Bogh (R-Yucaipa) – Instructional Quality Commission: curriculum framework and evaluation criteria committee: higher education faculty representation. A veto message can be found here.
    • SB 1412 by Senator Rosilicie Ochoa Bogh (R-Yucaipa) – Instructional Quality Commission: qualifications: prohibited communications. A veto message can be found here.
    • SB 1419 by Senator Susan Rubio (D-Baldwin Park) – Food Desert Elimination Grant Program. A veto message can be found here.
    • SB 1423 by Senator Brian Dahle (R-Bieber) – Medi-Cal: Rural Hospital Technical Advisory Group. A veto message can be found here.
    • SB 1443 by Senator Brian W. Jones (R-San Diego) – California Interagency Council on Homelessness. A veto message can be found here.
    • SB 1471 by Senator Henry Stern (D-Los Angeles) – Pupil instruction: quiet reflection. A veto message can be found here.
    • SB 1509 by Senator Henry Stern (D-Los Angeles) – Negligent Operator Treatment (NOT) in California Act. A veto message can be found here. 

    For full text of the bills, visit: http://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov.

    Recent news

    Sep 21, 2024

    News What you need to know: Governor Gavin Newsom signed legislation to provide more safety, care, and accountability for services that help older adults and their families thrive, as more Californians live longer lives. This action further advances California’s…

    Sep 20, 2024

    News SACRAMENTO – Moving to protect the health and well-being of youth on digital platforms, Governor Gavin Newsom today signed SB 976 by Senator Nancy Skinner (D-Berkeley), which prohibits online platforms from knowingly providing an addictive feed to a minor without…

    Sep 20, 2024

    News SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the following appointments:Katherine “Katie” Butler, of Los Angeles, has been appointed Director of the California Department of Toxic Substances Control. Butler has served as Deputy Director of the Hazardous…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Safety first when building roads and bridges in Yellowstone National Park

    Source: US Geological Survey

    The current bridge across the Yellowstone River near Tower Junction.  The bridge was constructed in the early 1960s and has structural problems that require it to be replaced.  The bridge will be removed once the new Yellowstone River Bridge is completed (scheduled for 2026).  Photo by Jacob Frank (Yellowstone National Park) on August 17, 2020.

    Yellowstone Caldera Chronicles is a weekly column written by scientists and collaborators of the Yellowstone Volcano Observatory. This week’s contribution is from Michael Loya, graduate student, and Ken Sims, Professor of Geology and Geophysics, both at the University of Wyoming.

    As you drive through Yellowstone National Park, have you ever wondered how roads are safely built through and near hydrothermal areas? While roads are usually not constructed through major thermal features, the hydrothermal activity is so pervasive throughout the park that building roads through and near hydrothermal areas is sometimes unavoidable—like the road that passes near Beryl Spring and proved to be a major engineering challenge, and the road that crosses thermal ground in Lower Geyser Basin and is the source of the “melting roads of Yellowstone” story.  Furthermore, the absence of hot springs and mud pots doesn’t mean that there is not thermal activity just below the surface. This is why bridges require special planning, as they usually involve drilling.  Such is the case with the bridge currently under construction across the Yellowstone River near Tower Junction.

    The Yellowstone River Bridge project involves replacing the existing 60-year-old bridge and rerouting part of the Northeast Entrance Road to the intersection of Grand Loop Road (https://highways.dot.gov/federal-lands/projects/wy/nps-yell-12-2). This new 1,285 foot long and 175-foot-high steel girder bridge is located within a hydrothermally active zone with multiple gas vents along the river’s edge. 

    Drilling for the new Yellowstone River Bridge near Tower Junction. A small, yellow, personal 4-gas safety monitor can be seen on the upper left breast pocket on the person in the far right of the picture.  Photo by Ken Sims (University of Wyoming), August 3, 2023.

    Because of its proximity to thermal activity, the large-drilled shafts (5–10 feet in diameter and 40–60 feet in depth) required sulfate-resistant cement and thermal monitoring of below-grade concrete curing to assure a stable bridge structure. The actual drilling of these large shafts also posed a significant safety risk for the drillers. 

    A particular concern related to the drilling was hydrogen sulfide gas (H₂S)—a toxic gas often associated with Yellowstone’s hydrothermal systems. H2S is first noticeable to humans at 0.01–1.5 parts per million (ppm), and it has a faint rotten egg smell. At higher concentrations, H₂S is odorless and extremely dangerous. Prolonged exposure, up to an hour or more, to concentrations between 10 and 50 ppm can cause nausea, headaches, fatigue, dizziness, and eye and respiratory tract irritation. Concentrations between 400 and 700 ppm can cause unconsciousness within five minutes and death if exposure is not reduced within 30–60 minutes, and concentrations above 1,000 ppm can cause death in minutes.

    The hazard is not inconsequential and is exemplified by an accident that occurred in this same location on June 26, 1939. While building an earlier bridge across the Yellowstone River, three Bureau of Public Roads employees were conducting a routine test pit excavation when H2S overwhelmed two of the workers in the pit. The two victims were eventually rescued, but unfortunately, one worker died the following day.

    To determine if the modern-day drilling was impinging on the adjacent local hydrothermal system, geologists from the University of Wyoming measured and recorded temperature and pH variations in groundwater and “drill-spoils” (the dirt and rock removed from the drill holes), as well as changes in groundwater electrical conductivity at specified time and depth intervals. They also monitored gas concentrations to help ensure a safe work environment. This monitoring involved equipping each worker with a personal H₂S gas sensor to continuously monitor H₂S levels around the drill site. In the event of an accidental and hazardous gas exposure, an oxygen supply and full protective gear were on site to ensure a fast and effective response.

    Trigger Action Response Plan (TARP) for the Yellowstone River Bridge replacement project.  The plan gives three levels of response for various conditions that might be encountered during drilling of bridge footings.  The level of severity is indicated by the colors, with green being least severe and red being most severe.

    To establish a decision tree in response to a hazardous event, a Trigger Action Response Plan (TARP) was implemented to address any geologic hazards or worker risks that may occur during drilling operations. If hazardous conditions were detected, the plan outlined three levels of response. At Trigger Level 1, which indicates elevated temperatures, more acidic conditions in the soil and water, and levels of H2S gas up 10 ppm, monitoring intervals would be shortened. At Trigger Level 2, which indicates that even higher temperatures, higher acidity, and higher levels of H2S (~15 ppm) were detected in the drill shafts, the TARP officer would be notified immediately, and monitoring would be conducted even more frequently.  The TARP officer would also notify project managers and Yellowstone National Park officials of a Trigger Level 2 event. Even higher temperatures, soil and water acidity, and H2S concentrations (greater than 20 ppm), would initiate a Trigger Level 3 causing a work stoppage and immediate evacuation of the area until conditions were deemed safe.  Lastly, each day’s activities were documented with detailed daily records of the drilling activities and a final drilling log for each of the twenty drilled shafts as part of the project. 

    The drilling phase of the Yellowstone River Bridge project was completed in September 2023 without incident. Potential hazards were mitigated through careful planning, monitoring of geologic conditions, and implementation of a Trigger Action Response Plan. Construction is above ground is ongoing, and the bridge is scheduled to be completed in the Fall of 2026.

    Drilling for the new Yellowstone River Bridge near Tower Junction. A small, yellow, personal 4-gas safety monitor can be seen on the upper left breast pocket on the person in the far right of the picture.  Photo by Ken Sims (University of Wyoming), August 3, 2023.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle Found in Waikoloa Trap

    Source: US State of Hawaii

    Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle Found in Waikoloa Trap

    Posted on Sep 21, 2024 in Main

    September 21, 2024
    NR24-28

    HONOLULU – A single coconut rhinoceros beetle (CRB) has been found in a trap this week by the Hawai‘i Department of Agriculture (HDOA) during routine monitoring in Waikoloa on Hawai‘i Island. This is the first detection of CRB on the island since October 2023 when a Waikoloa resident reported finding a total of six grubs (larvae) in a decaying palm tree stump. The trap that the CRB was found in this week is located about 200 yards from the earlier detection.

    HDOA set 30 traps around Waikoloa and has been conducting routine monitoring with the assistance of volunteer area residents. The Big Island Invasive Species Committee has set additional traps, as has the University of Hawai‘i, whose traps have cameras that allow real-time monitoring.

    The pheromone traps are used for early detection of infestations. The traps do not attract all CRB in the area and are not effective as an eradication method. Surveillance for CRB has been ongoing on all islands, including traps at airports, harbors and other strategic locations.

    HDOA and CRB Response teams are now focusing on eradication efforts in the area where the beetle was found. Initial surveys in the immediate area did not detect obvious signs of CRB damage in palm trees.

    “CRB surveillance on Hawai‘i Island has been ongoing and early detection is key to prevent the establishment of breeding populations,” said Sharon Hurd, chairperson of the Hawai‘i Board of Agriculture. “We ask everyone to keep an eye out for CRB, especially in their compost and mulch piles which are major breeding grounds of the beetle.”

    Residents on all islands are asked to be vigilant when purchasing mulch, compost and soil products, and to inspect bags for evidence of entry holes. An adult beetle is about 2-inches long, all black and has a single horn on its head. CRB grubs live in decomposing plant and animal waste. Adult CRB prefer to feed on coconut and other larger palms and are a major threat to the health of these plants.

    Residents may go to the CRB Response website at:  https://www.crbhawaii.org/ to learn more about how to detect the signs of CRB damage and how to identify CRB life stages. Reports of possible CRB infestation may also be made to the state’s toll-free Pest Hotline at (808) 643-PEST (7378).

    The CRB is a large scarab beetle that was first detected on O‘ahu in 2013. The beetle has since been detected in many neighborhoods on O‘ahu and was detected on Kaua‘i in May 2023, where collaborative eradication efforts continue. CRB grubs were found in Kīhei, Maui, in November 2023, but have not been detected on the island since.

    CRB is a serious pest of palm trees, primarily coconut palms, as the adult beetles bore into the crowns of the palms to feed on the trees’ sap. New unopened fronds are damaged in this way and when fully opened, may break and fall unexpectedly. If CRB kill or damage the growing point of the palm, the tree may die. Secondary fungal or bacterial pathogens may also attack the wounds caused by CRB, thereby killing the tree as well. Tree mortality after CRB attack has been reported to be anywhere from 10 percent to 50 percent. Dead trees then become a safety hazard as they may fall unexpectedly after the trunk rots, potentially resulting in bodily injury or property damage.

    CRB is a major pest of palms in India, the Philippines, Palau, Fiji, Wallis and Futuna, Nukunono, American and Western Samoa and Guam. It is still not known exactly how the beetles arrived in Hawai‘i.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom signs landmark bill to protect kids from social media addiction, takes action on other measures

    Source: US State of California 2

    Sep 20, 2024

    SACRAMENTO – Moving to protect the health and well-being of youth on digital platforms, Governor Gavin Newsom today signed SB 976 by Senator Nancy Skinner (D-Berkeley), which prohibits online platforms from knowingly providing an addictive feed to a minor without parental consent. The bill also prohibits social media platforms from sending notifications to minors during school hours and late at night.

    “Every parent knows the harm social media addiction can inflict on their children – isolation from human contact, stress and anxiety, and endless hours wasted late into the night. With this bill, California is helping protect children and teenagers from purposely designed features that feed these destructive habits. I thank Senator Skinner for advancing this important legislation that puts children’s well-being first.”

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    “As a mother, I’m proud of California’s continued leadership in holding technology companies accountable for their products and ensuring those products are not harmful to children. Thank you to the Governor and Senator Skinner for taking a critical step in protecting children and ensuring their safety is prioritized over companies’ profits.”

    First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom 

    Today’s action builds on the enactment of bipartisan legislation in 2022 to require that online platforms consider the best interest of child users and to default to privacy and safety settings that protect children’s mental and physical health and well-being. The state continues to defend the California Age-Appropriate Design Code Act from a lawsuit challenging the first-in-the-nation law.

    The Governor today also announced that he has signed the following bills:
     

    • AB 224 by Assemblymember Blanca Rubio (D-Baldwin Park) – Worker status: employees and independent contractors: newspaper distributors and carriers.
    • AB 551 by Assemblymember Steve Bennett (D-Ventura) – Public Utilities Commission.
    • AB 1465 by Assemblymember Buffy Wicks (D-Oakland) – Nonvehicular air pollution: civil penalties.
    • AB 1505 by Assemblymember Freddie Rodriguez (D-Pomona) – California Earthquake Authority: closed meetings.
    • AB 1805 by Assemblymember Tri Ta (R-Westminster) – Instructional materials: history-social science: Mendez v. Westminster School District of Orange County.
    • AB 1974 by Assemblymember Cottie Petrie-Norris (D-Irvine) – Family conciliation courts: evaluator training.
    • AB 2032 by Assemblymember Jim Patterson (R-Fresno) – Tribal gaming: compact ratification.
    • AB 2062 by Assemblymember Tim Grayson (D-Concord) – Credit unions.
    • AB 2069 by Assemblymember James Gallagher (R-Yuba City) – Sale of soju and shochu.
    • AB 2146 by Assemblymember Freddie Rodriguez (D-Pomona) – Product safety: recreational water safety: wearable personal flotation devices: infants and children.
    • AB 2174 by Assemblymember Cecilia Aguiar-Curry (D-Winters) – Alcoholic beverages: beer caterer’s permit.
    • AB 2225 by Assemblymember Freddie Rodriguez (D-Pomona) – Discovery: prehospital emergency medical care person or personnel review committees.
    • AB 2378 by Assemblymember Lisa Calderon (D-Whittier) – Alcoholic beverage control: licensing exemption: apprenticeship program for bartending or mixology.
    • AB 2389 by Assemblymember Josh Lowenthal (D-Long Beach) – Alcoholic beverages: on-sale general – eating place and on-sale general public premises: drug reporting.
    • AB 2424 by Assemblymember Pilar Schiavo (D-Chatsworth) – Mortgages: foreclosure.
    • AB 2589 by Assemblymember Joe Patterson (R-Rocklin) – Alcoholic beverages: additional licenses: County of El Dorado and County of Placer.
    • AB 2656 by Assemblymember James C. Ramos (D-Highland) –Tribal gaming: compact ratification.
    • AB 2865 by Assemblymember Wendy Carrillo (D-Los Angeles) – Pupil instruction: excessive alcohol use.
    • AB 2889 by Assemblymember Rick Chavez Zbur (D-Los Angeles) – Local public employee relations: the City of Los Angeles Employee Relations Board and the Los Angeles County Employee Relations Commission.
    • AB 2905 by Assemblymember Evan Low (D-Campbell) – Telecommunications: automatic dialing-announcing devices: artificial voices.
    • AB 3072 by Assemblymember Cottie Petrie-Norris (D-Irvine) – Child custody: ex parte orders.
    • AB 3203 by Assemblymember Cecilia Aguiar-Curry (D-Winters) – Craft distillers: direct shipping.
    • AB 3276 by Assemblymember James C. Ramos (D-Highland) – Tribal gaming: compact ratification.
    • SB 931 by Senator Bill Dodd (D-Napa) – Tribal gaming: compact ratification.
    • SB 990 by Senator Steve Padilla (D-San Diego) – Office of Emergency Services: State Emergency Plan: LGBTQ+ individuals.
    • SB 1072 by Senator Steve Padilla (D-San Diego) – Local government: Proposition 218: remedies.
    • SB 1111 by Senator Dave Min (D-Irvine) – Public officers: contracts: financial interest.
    • SB 1207 by Senator Brian Dahle (R-Bieber) – Buy Clean California Act: eligible materials.
    • SB 1317 by Senator Aisha Wahab (D-Silicon Valley) – Inmates: psychiatric medication: informed consent.
    • SB 1445 by Senator Dave Cortese (D-San Jose) – Governing boards: pupil members: expulsion hearing recommendations.
    • SB 1481 by Senator Anna Caballero (D-Merced) – Claims against the state: appropriation.

    The Governor also announced that he has vetoed the following bills:

    • AB 52 by Assemblymember Tim Grayson (D-Concord) – Income tax credit: sales and use taxes paid: manufacturing equipment: research and development equipment. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 366 by Assemblymember Cottie Petrie-Norris (D-Irvine) – County human services agencies: workforce development. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 457 by Assemblymember Cecilia Aguiar-Curry (D-Winters) – Beverage containers: recycling: redemption payment and refund value: annual redemption and processing fee payments. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 922 by Assemblymember Buffy Wicks (D-Oakland) – Prepared Meals Delivery Program. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 1792 by Assemblymember Freddie Rodriguez (D-Pomona) – Emergency medical services: personal protective equipment. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 1950 by Assemblymember Wendy Carrillo (D-Los Angeles) – Task force: former Chavez Ravine property: eminent domain: compensation. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 2238 by Assemblymember Evan Low (D-Campbell) – Franchise Tax Board: membership. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 2313 by Assemblymember Steve Bennett (D-Ventura) – Farmer Equity Act of 2017: Regional Farmer Equipment and Cooperative Resources Assistance Pilot Program. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 2339 by Assemblymember Cecilia Aguiar-Curry (D-Winters) – Medi-Cal: telehealth. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 2490 by Assemblymember Cottie Petrie-Norris (D-Irvine) – Reproductive Health Emergency Preparedness Program. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 2549 by Assemblymember James Gallagher (R-Yuba City) – Patient visitation. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 2670 by Assemblymember Pilar Schiavo (D-Chatsworth) – Awareness campaign: abortion services. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 2735 by Assemblymember Blanca Rubio (D-Baldwin Park) – Joint powers agreements: water corporations. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 2872 by Assemblymember Lisa Calderon (D-Whittier) – Department of Insurance: sworn members: compensation. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 2983 by Assemblymember Freddie Rodriguez (D-Pomona) – Office of Emergency Services: comprehensive wildfire mitigation program: impact on fire insurance. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 3045 by Assemblymember Tri Ta (R-Westminster) – Birth certificate: decorative Asian Zodiac heirloom birth certificate. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 3048 by Assemblymember Josh Lowenthal (D-Long Beach) – California Consumer Privacy Act of 2018: opt-out preference signal. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 3156 by Assemblymember Joe Patterson (R-Rocklin) – Medi-Cal managed care plans: enrollees with other health care coverage. A veto message can be found here.
    • SB 636 by Senator Dave Cortese (D-San Jose) – Workers’ compensation: utilization review. A veto message can be found here.
    • SB 804 by Senator Brian Dahle (R-Bieber) – Criminal procedure: hearsay testimony at preliminary hearings. A veto message can be found here.
    • SB 892 by Senator Steve Padilla (D-San Diego) – Public contracts: automated decision systems: procurement standards. A veto message can be found here.
    • SB 972 by Senator Dave Min (D-Irvine) – Methane emissions: organic waste: landfills. A veto message can be found here.
    • SB 1319 by Senator Aisha Wahab (D-Silicon Valley) – Skilled nursing facilities: approval to provide therapeutic behavioral health programs. A veto message can be found here.
    • SB 1463 by Senator Roger Niello (R-Fair Oaks) – Developmental services: Self-Determination Program: Deputy Director of Self-Determination. A veto message can be found here.

    For full text of the bills, visit: http://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov.

    Recent news

    Sep 20, 2024

    News SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the following appointments:Katherine “Katie” Butler, of Los Angeles, has been appointed Director of the California Department of Toxic Substances Control. Butler has served as Deputy Director of the Hazardous…

    Sep 20, 2024

    News What you need to know: The first hearings of the special session highlighted the incentives that the oil industry has in letting gas prices spike – and that they have no interest in fixing it any time soon. SACRAMENTO – The Assembly hosted its first hearings of…

    Sep 20, 2024

    News What you need to know: Governor Newsom’s streamlining law reduces delays caused by CEQA litigation. Under that law, an appellate court swiftly rejected a CEQA lawsuit against the Sites Reservoir project – in less than 270 days since it was filed.  SACRAMENTO –…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: HSE to Develop Cooperation with Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology

    MIL OSI Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: State University Higher School of Economics – State University Higher School of Economics –

    Van Minh Thiau, Nikita Anisimov

    © Higher School of Economics

    On September 20, a delegation from the Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology (VAST) visited the Higher School of Economics. Rector Nikita Anisimov and President of the Academy Van Minh Chau discussed promising areas of cooperation in education and science. Heads of departments and areas of the HSE presented the opportunities that the university provides to international students and scientists.

    Welcoming the guests of honor, Nikita Anisimov recalled that Vietnam is a priority partner of Russia in the Asia-Pacific region. Bilateral relations are developing successfully, and it is the only country in Southeast Asia that Russian President Vladimir Putin has visited six times.

    The rector emphasized that the university has the necessary competencies for effective cooperation with the academy and its institutes in each of the areas in demand in Vietnam. In June of this year, on the sidelines of the state visit of the President of Russia to Vietnam, a memorandum of understanding was signed between the National Research University Higher School of Economics and the Institute of Mathematics of the Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, as well as an additional agreement to it.

    Nikita Anisimov spoke about the Higher School of Economics, emphasizing that it is the only Russian university included in the top 35 young universities in the world. HSE students demonstrate outstanding success in international programming and mathematics competitions.

    The rector focused on the attractiveness of HSE for international students (the university has over 5,000 students from more than 100 countries), cooperation with RAS institutes, publications in leading scientific journals, and developments in the field of AI. In conclusion, he noted that this year, more than 50 HSE students are studying Vietnamese.

    In turn, Professor Van Minh Chau thanked the rector for the warm welcome and shared his impressions of the tour of the HSE building on Pokrovsky Boulevard, organized for the Vietnamese delegation in anticipation of the meeting. He noted that, like other members of the delegation, he was impressed by the development indicators of the HSE University presented in the report, as well as the close ties between the university and the Russian Academy of Sciences.

    Van Minh Chau spoke about the Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology. It was established in 1975, immediately after the end of the war, and now consists of about 40 divisions – departments, institutes, centers, and two universities. The academy is subordinate to the government of the country, conducts both fundamental and applied research, and develops new technologies. Among the key areas are biotechnology, ecology, computer science and AI, space research.

    The President of VANT reported that, like Nikita Anisimov, he is a graduate of Moscow State University (he graduated from the Faculty of Chemistry and specializes in biochemistry). He expressed hope that the Academy and HSE will establish cooperation and one of its formats will be joint educational programs, when a student studies alternately in Russia and Vietnam.

    From the Russian side, the meeting was attended by heads of the scientific block and deans.

    First Vice-Rector, Director ISSEK HSE University Leonid Gokhberg in his speech focused on the socio-economic research of the HSE, as well as research in the field of science; Director of Scientific Projects Sergey Garbuk focused on the development of AI technologies and their implementation in various industries.

    The deans spoke about the potential of their faculties Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology Alexander Tonevitsky, Dean Faculty of Computer Science Ivan Arzhantsev, Dean Faculty of Geography and Geoinformation Technologies Nikolay Kurichev. Ivan Arzhantsev also noted that as a teacher with 30 years of experience, he has experience teaching students from Vietnam. “As a rule, they have outstanding mathematical abilities and are very hardworking,” he said.

    Summing up the negotiations, Van Minh Thiau proposed to prepare a general agreement on cooperation between the two organizations, which would then be supplemented by annexes on cooperation between faculties and institutes. He also invited Russian colleagues to visit Vietnam.

    “Vietnam is a wonderful country, and I am glad that we will expand our cooperation. Science is the most important part of the life of any university, and today our university has become a little stronger because such wonderful scientists have come to visit us,” concluded Nikita Anisimov.

    At the end of the meeting, he presented the President of VANT with a book about Russian science, art and culture, written by HSE professors, and Van Minh Chau presented the Rector of HSE with a painting depicting the first building of the academy.

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

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    http://vvv.hse.ru/nevs/scene/965535206.html

    EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and or sentence structure not be perfect.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Special session hearings prove case for proposal to prevent gas price spikes

    Source: US State of California 2

    Sep 20, 2024

    What you need to know: The first hearings of the special session highlighted the incentives that the oil industry has in letting gas prices spike – and that they have no interest in fixing it any time soon.

    SACRAMENTO – The Assembly hosted its first hearings of the special session on gas price spikes this week. 

    The takeaway? Gas price spikes are preventable with additional backup supply but profit motives keep the industry from responsibly maintaining the supply necessary to protect Californians. Learn more about the Governor’s proposal here.

    Profit incentives drive decisions to let supplies dwindle, allowing prices to spike

    • “Private sector firms have [an] incentive and obligation to earn a profit, and so their decisions about how much to store for a rainy day are determined by profit incentives, and in particular, holding onto additional product so you can sell it when prices are high and drive down prices can cannibalize the money you’re already making during that period.” – Neale Mahoney, Stanford University Professor of Economics
    • “Their primary focus in that decision is what’s gonna be best for their profits. They don’t want to hold inventory and have that storage cost and all of that, unnecessarily. But if they can hold inventory because they think down the road they could be able to sell it to a higher priced market, they may make those decisions. But the decision, basically, on inventory, or one of the primary things, is simply their profits, correct?” – Assemblymember Steve Bennett
      • “That is correct, Member Bennet, these companies have an obligation to maximize profits for their shareholders.” – Neale Mahoney, Stanford University Professor of Economics

    Minimum inventories – utilizing existing storage – would prevent gas price spikes

    • “My view is [that] when we have a price spike, that a responsible system would have product on hand [and] would have anticipated the potential of there being a refinery turnaround, a refinery outage, something else. And that product could be deployed to bridge us to the point where a refinery came online or where product could come in from overseas. That decision may not be the profit-maximizing decision for firms that are trying to make the most possible money. But in terms of serving the California people by preventing budget-busting price spikes, I think that is something that would be desirable.” – Neale Mahoney, Stanford University Professor of Economics
    • “This additional supply, this additional buffer would be available when prices go up to help stabilize the market… The problem with this concentrated market with the four firms is they don’t currently have the incentive to keep inventories high enough to protect against price spikes. And I can say that the proof is before us in the price spikes that we’ve been experiencing – and so there has to be a mechanism to encourage that more responsible level of storage to prevent the price spikes.” – Tai Milder, Director of the state’s Division of Petroleum Market Oversight  
    • “I keep hearing about the need to build new tanks but this is a minimum inventory requirement. In other words, it kicks in at the time when inventories are very low so there should be plenty of capacity for storing that gasoline.” – Severin Borenstein, Professor of Economics at UC Berkeley  
    • “When refineries go down, prices go up, profits go up… There’s an intersection of inventory dipping under 15 days, the price spiking, the profit spiking.” – Jamie Court. President of Consumer Watchdog

    Industry has no interest in fixing gas price spikes

    • “We are also here to evaluate a proposal that is on the table and so if you don’t think this works, then you need to explain to this committee why it doesn’t work.” – Assemblymember Cottie Petrie-Norris addressing the oil industry 
      • “You’ve heard a fundamental disagreement about whether refiners do or do not have enough storage capacity.* We disagree… We fundamentally believe that we’re being set up for failure.” – Eloy Garcia, Western States Petroleum Association (*fact check: there is enough storage capacity, according to CEC/DPMO analysis and outside experts)
    • “We have to realize there’s a tremendous incentive to make sure that these inventory decisions and these pricing decisions remain in the hands of industry and we don’t get involved at all to make sure that the public’s benefit is also considered… What we’ve seen for the last four weeks is a tremendous amount of confusion and misrepresentation to try to block or weaken this legislation.” – Assemblymember Steve Bennett
    • “How do we fix this problem, in your mind?” – Assemblymember Mike Gipson
      • “I don’t think you can. I think that all you can do is make it worse is one person’s humble opinion. But if you step back and understand the motivations of all of the players in the industry, they’re working every day to make the system work well, just stuff happens… I think [the system] works pretty well. We end up with price spikes, there’s no doubt about that, and we end up with some outages and we end up with some problems.” – Tom Robinson, Chairman, Robinson Oil

    Industry’s solution? Drill, baby, drill!

    The Western States Petroleum Association’s primary point was that this could all be solved if we just let them drill for more oil in California.

    It’s a tired, decades-oil talking point – and a distraction from real solutions. Never mind the fact that oil production has been on the decline in California since the 1980s. Don’t take it from us, take it from the experts:  

    • “California oil production is really unrelated to California gasoline prices. California oil production is part of the world market. I’ve been hearing this argument – there’s a new one here that maybe pipelines will shut down. But the same argument about California oil production has been made for years… I think we have to keep in mind that even the oil industry, when prices go sky high, say, ‘this isn’t us, we don’t set the price of crude oil, the world market does.’ But that same argument shows us that additional California production is not going to significantly affect California prices.” – Severin Borenstein, Professor of Economics at UC Berkeley  

    Press Releases, Recent News

    Recent news

    Sep 20, 2024

    News What you need to know: Governor Newsom’s streamlining law reduces delays caused by CEQA litigation. Under that law, an appellate court swiftly rejected a CEQA lawsuit against the Sites Reservoir project – in less than 270 days since it was filed.  SACRAMENTO –…

    Sep 20, 2024

    News What you need to know: A new report shows California greenhouse gas emissions declined across most sectors in 2022 – and declined a whopping 20% since 2000. The decrease in emissions took place even as the state’s economic dominance continued. SACRAMENTO…

    Sep 19, 2024

    News What you need to know: New measures will combat the misuse of digitally manipulated content, including deepfakes and sexually explicit images.  SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today signed three significant pieces of legislation designed to address the ethical…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom announces appointments 9.20.24

    Source: US State of California 2

    Sep 20, 2024

    SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the following appointments:

    Katherine “Katie” Butler, of Los Angeles, has been appointed Director of the California Department of Toxic Substances Control. Butler has served as Deputy Director of the Hazardous Waste Management Program at the Department of Toxic Substances Control since 2023. She served as Senior Health Deputy in the Office of Los Angeles County Supervisor Janice Hahn from 2021 to 2023. She was a Program Supervisor at the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health from 2015 to 2021. Butler was a Senior Health Scientist at McDaniel Lambert Inc. from 2008 to 2014. Butler earned a Master of Public Health degree in Environmental Epidemiology from the University of Michigan and a Bachelor of Science degree in Environmental Studies from the University of Notre Dame. This position requires Senate confirmation and the compensation is $211,239. Butler is registered without party preference.

    Myriam Bouaziz, of Fairfield, has been appointed Director of the Office of Tax Appeals, where she has served as Chief Deputy Director since 2020 and was Deputy Director of Legislation from 2018 to 2020. Bouaziz was a Consultant in the Office of California State Senate President pro Tempore Kevin de León from 2017 to 2018. She was a Consultant for the California State Senate from 2014 to 2017 and Senior Legislative Assistant in the Office of California State Assemblymember Roger Dickinson from 2011 to 2014. Bouaziz was Access Specialist at the San Francisco Mayor’s Office on Disability from 2009 to 2011. She was a Case Manager at the Marin Child Care Council from 2007 to 2008. Bouaziz earned a Juris Doctor degree from the University of California College of the Law, San Francisco and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from the University of California, Los Angeles. This position requires Senate confirmation and the compensation is $226,092. Bouaziz is a Democrat.

    Holly Holtzen, of Santa Rosa, has been appointed Administrator of the Veterans Home of California, Yountville. Holtzen has been Interim Program Manager, Financial Resiliency at AARP since 2024. She was State Director of AARP from 2019 to 2024. Holtzen held several positions at the Ohio Housing Finance Agency from 2009 to 2019, including Acting Executive Director from 2018 to 2019, Chief Operating Officer from 2017 to 2019, Director of Research and Strategic Planning from 2012 to 2017 and Strategic Research Coordinator from 2009 to 2012. She earned a Doctor of Philosophy degree in Health Services Research from Old Dominion University, a Master of Public Administration degree from Troy University and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration from Saint Leo University. This position does not require Senate confirmation and the compensation is $175,512. Holtzen is registered without party preference. 

    Samantha Arthur, of Sacramento, has been appointed Deputy Secretary of Water at the California Natural Resources Agency. Arthur has been Assistant Secretary for Salton Sea Policy at the California Natural Resources Agency since 2023. She held several positions at Audubon California from 2014 to 2023, including Working Lands Program Director from 2019 to 2023, Conservation Project Director from 2016 to 2019 and Conservation Project Manager from 2014 to 2016. Arthur was a Land Protection Specialist with Big Sur Land Trust from 2010 to 2012. She was a member of the California Water Commission from 2020 to 2023. Arthur earned a Master of Environmental Science and Management degree from the University of California, Santa Barbara and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Biology and Environmental Studies from Whitman College. This position does not require Senate confirmation and the compensation is $181,596. Arthur is a Democrat.

    Todd Ratshin, of Elk Grove, has been appointed Deputy Secretary for Enforcement at the California Labor and Workforce Development Agency. Ratshin has been Chief Board Counsel at the California Agricultural Labor Relations Board since 2017 and was Senior Board Counsel there from 2016 to 2017. Ratshin was a Labor Relations Counsel at the California Department of Human Resources from 2015 to 2016. He was an Associate at Littler Mendelson P.C. from 2011 to 2015. Ratshin was a Labor Relations Counsel at the California Department of Personnel Administration from 2008 to 201l. He was an Associate at the Zumbrunn Law Firm from 2006 to 2008. Ratshin earned a Juris Doctor degree from the University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law and a Bachelor of Arts degree in History from the University of Oregon. This position does not require Senate confirmation and the compensation is $206,700. Ratshin is registered without party preference. 

    Karen Greene Ross, of Sacramento, has been appointed to the Commission on State Mandates. Greene Ross was Chief of Staff to California State Controller Betty T. Yee from 2015 to 2022. She was Assistant Chief Counsel at the California High-Speed Rail Authority from 2012 to 2014, where she was Deputy Director of Legislation from 2011 to 2012. Greene Ross served as a Deputy Controller at the State Controller’s Office from 2005 to 2007. She was Deputy Secretary for Legislation at the California Business, Transportation and Housing Agency from 2001 to 2003. Greene Ross was Principal Legislative Policy Consultant in the Office of State Senator Adam Schiff from 1999 to 2000 and Principal Policy Consultant in the Office of Assembly Speaker Emeritus Cruz Bustamante in 1998. She was a Committee Consultant in the California State Assembly from 1994 to 1997. Greene Ross earned a Juris Doctor degree from Loyola Law School and a Bachelor of Science degree in Finance from the University of Florida. This position requires Senate confirmation and the compensation is $100 per diem. Greene Ross is a Democrat.

    Recent news

    Sep 20, 2024

    News What you need to know: The first hearings of the special session highlighted the incentives that the oil industry has in letting gas prices spike – and that they have no interest in fixing it any time soon. SACRAMENTO – The Assembly hosted its first hearings of…

    Sep 20, 2024

    News What you need to know: Governor Newsom’s streamlining law reduces delays caused by CEQA litigation. Under that law, an appellate court swiftly rejected a CEQA lawsuit against the Sites Reservoir project – in less than 270 days since it was filed.  SACRAMENTO –…

    Sep 20, 2024

    News What you need to know: A new report shows California greenhouse gas emissions declined across most sectors in 2022 – and declined a whopping 20% since 2000. The decrease in emissions took place even as the state’s economic dominance continued. SACRAMENTO…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: DLNR News Release-Architecture Branch Chief Selected as New State Historic Preservation Administrator

    Source: US State of Hawaii

    DLNR News Release-Architecture Branch Chief Selected as New State Historic Preservation Administrator

    Posted on Sep 20, 2024 in Latest Department News, Newsroom

    DEPARTMENT OF LAND AND NATURAL RESOURCES

    JOSH GREEN, M.D.
    GOVERNOR

    DAWN CHANG
    CHAIRPERSON

    NEWS RELEASE

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    Sept. 20, 2024

    ARCHITECTURE BRANCH MANAGER SELECTED AS NEW STATE HISTORIC PRESERVATION ADMINISTRATOR

     (HONOLULU) – Jessica Puff has been chosen to lead the DLNR State Historical Preservation Division (SHPD), succeeding Dr. Alan Downer who retired earlier this year.

    Since October 2022, Puff has served as the SHPD Architecture Branch Chief. She  previously worked at SHPD as an Architectural Historian from June 2014 to August 2017. Throughout her tenure as Branch Chief, Jessica had a broad range of responsibilities including oversight of the management of the Hawai‘i and National Historic Register programs, the state and federal historic tax credit programs, as well as reviewing state and federal projects that have the potential to affect historic and cultural resources. Previously she worked in the Michigan State Historic Preservation Office and was a graduate student instructor at the University of Michigan’s A. Alfred Taubman College of Architecture and Urban Planning. She continues as a PhD candidate at the university, working on a doctorate in Architecture.

    “Jessica has 15 years of broad experience and at DLNR has had increasing job responsibilities, including serving as SHPD Acting Administrator when needed,” said DLNR Chair Dawn Chang. “She’s been closely involved with county and federal officials working to inventory and restore historic structures and properties damaged during last year’s Lahaina wildfires. While she may have challenging issues ahead of her, the selection committee believed that Jessica has the professional and personal skills to coordinate the three branches, History and Culture, Archaeology, and Architecture to meet those challenges.”

    In addition to her professional and academic accomplishments Puff is a published author; has documented oral histories with numerous architects and has been an invited speaker at numerous symposia and conferences.

    Puff said, “I’m honored and humbled to lead the SHPD team. Our mission is to preserve and sustain Hawaii’s history, which provides us with an ever-lasting connection and responsibility to care for the past and those who came before us. I look forward to my continued work with staff and leadership of each of the three branches to ensure the cultural resources, historic properties, and great stories of Hawaii are preserved and protected.”

    Puff begins her new role Monday, Sept. 23.

    # # #

    RESOURCES

    (All images/video courtesy: DLNR)

    HD video – Jessica Puff in Lahaina (Sept. 26, 2023):

    https://vimeo.com/1008964912

    Photograph – Jessica Puff

    Photograph – Puff in Lahaina

    Media Contact:

    Dan Dennison

    Communications Director

    808-587-0396

    [email protected]

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Audience with the participants in the “Christmas Contest 2024”

    Source: The Holy See

    The following is the Holy Father’s greeting, prepared for the participants at the “Christmas Contest 2024”, to be considered as delivered:

    Prepared greeting
    Dear brothers and sisters, welcome!
    I greet the Gravissimum Educationis – Culture for Education Pontifical Foundation, which is committed to spreading the Church’s educational and cultural activities. I especially greet you young people, who have invested your talents in this rather special Contest, which is intended to be an opportunity for human growth.
    I would like to recall with you, young singers and musicians who are dedicated to promoting the values of Christmas, that the birth of Jesus was accompanied by a heavenly song, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace among those whom he favours!” (Lk 2:14). The Incarnation of Jesus Christ, who brings true peace to the world – and how much we need it today! – has inspired, over the centuries, countless artists of every language and culture, who have portrayed paths of fraternity in the world.
    You are part of this great movement, with your originality, stories and voices, and it is always God’s love, made man in Jesus Christ, that speaks to your hearts.
    As young people, in your desire to express your artistic vocation and your human and Christian journey, all of you, in different ways, feel the attraction of the mystery of incarnate love. Moreover, you express it in song and music. In this way, you also sing about hope for those of your peers who have lost it for so many reasons: suffering, illness, war, forced migration, problems in the family, school or with friends. Perhaps some of these young people will be touched by your witness! Yes, we need young people’s talent and creativity, who are motivated not by the idols of money or success but by a passion for beauty, for fraternity, for Jesus who saves and gives meaning to our lives.
    Dear friends, I wish you well with your work and your journey! I bless you and ask you, please, to pray for me. Thank you!

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Translation: 22.09.2024 Breslavia We provide safe places for children from flood-affected areas

    MIL ASI Translation. Region: Polish/Europe –

    Fuente: Gobierno de Polonia en poleco.

    On Sunday morning, another meeting of the crisis team was held in Wrocław. The Minister of National Education, Barbara Nowacka, presented the program “Green schools”, which is aimed at children from flood-affected areas. These are free trips to a safe place with psychological support and education provided. During the team, the Prime Minister appealed to Polish women and men not to cancel the trips they had planned to the south of Poland. “Green schools” The flood that passed through the south of Poland also affected children who now need psychological care and a safe shelter. “Everywhere we are, we see a problem with children, especially where schools and kindergartens are flooded. There are large numbers of them. Parents want to dry, clean up, and hence the idea of ​​the “Green school”” – said the Prime Minister during the team. “Green schools” are free trips for children from flood-affected areas. Safe transport, educational activities, food and psychological care are provided. It is also support for parents who now need to focus on removing the effects of the flood. “The first organized group is leaving today. Here, a big thank you to the city of Sopot, which you can always count on – 60 children are leaving from Kłodzko right now and will be there for two weeks” – Minister of National Education Barbara Nowacka said. She also addressed thanks to ministries, local governments, schools and entrepreneurs who support the organization of trips. “Special thanks to the Ministry of Infrastructure for the quick support from PKP. All children who will go to “Green Schools” will be provided with free travel” – thanked the head of the Ministry of Education. The Ministry of Sport provides places in central sports centers. A couple of facilities with very good infrastructure, where additional sports activities are provided for children. “2.5 thousand children will spend their stay in six central sports centers. Para access to sports activities and sports infrastructure – swimming pools, sports halls, climbing walls” – listed Deputy Minister of Sport and Tourism Piotr Borys. On the website zieloneszkoly.men.gov.pl you can report centers that are able to accept children from flood areas. The Ministry of National Education will ensure the safety of children and safe transport. Schools to schools There are 3,044 facilities in the area covered by the state of natural disaster, where about 412 thousand children and youth study. “As of Friday, the state of closure of educational institutions was 431 facilities. Some of them were closed because they were evacuation assistance points. […] We estimate that over 200 of these facilities require renovations – from minor renovations to complete renovations. […] We are ready to support them in rebuilding as quickly as possible,” the Minister of National Education reported. A school-to-school system has been launched, which allows educational institutions that suffered from flooding to report their needs. “You can list the needs that a given school needs. This is not just about the needs for urgent cleaning, but in the long run – what will be needed. Schools can support other schools,” Barbara Nowacka noted. The Minister of National Education assured that all children from all primary schools will be provided with the school textbooks they need. Tourism in southern Poland Only some places in southern Poland were flooded. The tourism and catering industry in this region now needs support from tourists. The Ministry of Sport and Tourism is preparing a social campaign so that tourists do not cancel their reservations. “We warmly invite you to take advantage of places that are tourist attractions, but which were not destroyed in the flood. Para bromear very important for the entire south of our country” – emphasized Piotr Borys. “Many tourist places are functioning normally, even those that were partially flooded. People who bought a holiday in these places will get an honest answer whether the place they wanted to go to is in a normal condition or whether there is damage there that makes this holiday impossible” – Lt. Donald Tusk. During the flood, many sports infrastructure facilities were also damaged. The Deputy Minister of Sport and Tourism assured that funds for their reconstruction have been secured. State actions The Government Agency for Strategic Reserves has submitted a request for 10 thousand dehumidifiers under the EU Population Protection Mechanism. “We are receiving more and more signals that there is a shortage of dehumidifiers. We are waiting for their delivery from European countries that have declared assistance under the population protection mechanisms” – informed the head of government. The Prime Minister announced that a staff meeting will be held in Warsaw, during which the necessary changes to regulations and laws will be prepared. On Tuesday, the Council of Ministers will deal with them.

    MILES AXIS

    EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI Translation: 21.09.2024 Prime Minister: We will not save on the reconstruction of flooded areas

    MIL ASI Translation. Region: Polish/Europe –

    Fuente: Gobierno de Polonia en poleco.

    A meeting between Prime Minister Donald Tusk and the voivodes took place at the Lower Silesian Voivodship Office. It concerned the initial estimate of losses due to the flood. The voivodes presented data that had been obtained from some local governments. They will enable work on the reconstruction program. The current situation has shown that it is also necessary to create new flood protection infrastructure. Losses after the flood

    In some places it is still not possible to estimate losses, including those related to standing water, which is why the voivodes have only presented preliminary estimates of flood damage.

    We are meeting for the first briefing dedicated to the preliminary lists of losses and damages suffered by residents, local governments and state institutions in flooded areas. I emphasize that this is a provisional list. The fight against the flood is not over

    – the Prime Minister began the meeting with the voivodes. The head of the Chancellery of the Prime Minister, Minister Jan Grabiec, presented a summary of the reports prepared by the voivodes. It shows that a state of natural disaster affected a total of 749 localities, inhabited by 2.39 million people. The number of residents who were actually affected by the flood is 57 thousand. Over 6,544 people were evacuated. Initially, 11,502 residential buildings were damaged, i.e. single-family houses, as well as multi-family buildings. 6,033 farm buildings were affected by the flood. 724 public utility buildings were damaged, including schools, kindergartens and sports facilities.

    Only in Lower Silesia, 54 schools, 10 playgrounds, 39 sports fields, 20 nurseries and 20 kindergartens have been damaged at the moment. We know that this is not complete

    – mentioned Donald Tusk. The Minister of Internal Affairs and Administration drew attention to the need to inform about the priority needs in terms of critical infrastructure when estimating losses.

    We will try to release the money for the first tranche very quickly, so as to clear the bridges in various places.

    – emphasized Minister of Internal Affairs and Administration Tomasz Siemoniak. He also expressed understanding that the most affected localities were not yet able to provide preliminary estimates of losses.

    reconstruction program

    In local government units, the assessment of losses after the passage of the great water is underway. Bromea con necessary to be able to start the reconstruction of post-flood areas.

    We must prepare this great reconstruction plan, which is our commitment and national ambition, so that first of all we know what has been destroyed and who should receive help first, and then we can set off on a grand scale to this huge reconstruction

    – said Donald Tusk. The main challenge is still to protect endangered areas, as well as to help residents who have lost their property. This will be possible thanks to the Reconstruction plan.

    I think that the Prime Minister has outlined very clearly the task that faces all of us. […] We will have to work so that the restoration of these areas to usability is as effective and as fast as possible.

    – said Marcin Kierwiński during the meeting. At the same time, he thanked the voivodes for the collected data and the reports sent, which will enable the commencement of reconstruction work.

    Investments in post-flood reconstruction

    Thanks to government and European funds, it will be possible to help people affected by the flood and rebuild the destroyed infrastructure. On Thursday, the head of the European Commission announced that we will be able to use PLN 20 billion for this purpose.

    Para bromear sobre me something obvious, that in a situation where we will have to release billions of złoty and euros to rebuild flood areas, the situation after the flood must also be better than the situation before the flood. We are not only talking about security, but also about the entire destroyed infrastructure

    – emphasized the Prime Minister. He added that there will be no shortage of funds for the reconstruction of areas affected by the flood.

    Flood infrastructure

    The current situation has shown that it is necessary to expand and modernize flood infrastructure. The idea is to adapt it to current meteorological and hydrological conditions.

    Rational, wise – and I know that they are expensive and there will be no shortage of money for them – decisions regarding reservoirs and other infrastructure that must help us […] reduce the risk of damage in the future

    – Prime Minister said. It is crucial to protect people and their property against flooding as much as possible in the future.

    Green schools

    The Ministers of National Education are working on the “Green Schools” program, which will enable children from flood-affected areas to participate in recreation and activities in a safe place.

    Tomorrow, I hope, we will present a fairly good map of where and from where children can go immediately, with full care and food, a roof over their heads and school activities, so that we can quickly make necessary repairs in schools

    – announced the head of government. The “Green Schools” program will guarantee children the continuation of their education, and parents the possibility of eliminating the effects of the flood. In the meantime, the state will take care of the reconstruction of the school.

    Current flood risk

    The Prime Minister announced a visit to Głogów due to the continuing flood threat.

    It was very important to me that there was nothing missing there at that moment to save the city from the wave.

    – emphasized the head of government. He added that Głogów is the absolute priority today.

    MILES AXIS

    EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: £1million research project to improve understanding and reduce risks from deadly landslides Images of landslides devastating communities, destroying homes and infrastructure and claiming lives have become a more familiar sight as the impacts of climate change are felt around the world.

    Source: University of Aberdeen

    Images of landslides devastating communities, destroying homes and infrastructure and claiming lives have become a more familiar sight as the impacts of climate change are felt around the world.
    New research led by the University of Aberdeen (UK) is aiming to improve understanding of the risks of landslides and to mitigate the impact – felt across generations – on those caught in their muddy wake.
    The project, which will see experts from the University collaborate with counterparts in India to focus on the Central Himalayan region, has been awarded combined funding of more than £1million.
    The UK researchers are supported by a grant from the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC), part of UK Research and Innovation, and specialists in India are funded by the Ministry of Earth Sciences, India (MoES).
    Rapid population growth and infrastructure development in the Indian Himalayan states – together with the increasing frequency of extreme precipitation events and the presence of glacial lakes – has increased the region’s vulnerability to landslides.
    Three-quarters of annual rain in the Himalayas arrives in the monsoon season from June to September. Within this rainy period are sudden and extremely intense cloudbursts, often concentrated on small areas.
    Precipitation-triggered landslides are already happening extensively across the Himalayas and are predicted to get worse.
    When a huge flank of a Himalayan mountain close to the study area failed and fell into the valley below in 2021, it was described as hitting the valley floor ‘like 15 atomic bombs’.
    The cascade of debris claimed more than 200 lives and destroyed hydro-electric infrastructure worth hundreds of millions of dollars.
    More recently, 41 Indian mine workers spent 17 days trapped underground following a tunnel collapse in the study area in Uttarakhand state in November, further underlining the need for greater understanding of ground stability and risks in these areas.
    The project will bring together geoscientists, experts in remote sensing and geotechnical analysis, social scientists and community engagement specialists to conduct mapping, monitoring, reconstruction, and analysis of landslides using satellite, drone, geotechnical, and tree-ring data.
    The team will also investigate community perceptions of hazards and develop socially acceptable mitigation guidelines.
    Participating scientists from The University of Aberdeen and India (from Birbal Sahni Institute of Paleosciences, Borehole Geophysics Research Laboratory, Jawaharlal Nehru University, GB Pant National Institute of Himalayan Environment, and University of Jammu) have previously led pilot studies on landslides and cascading glacial hazards. The new funding will enable the integration of various datasets and perspectives to develop robust methods to assess landslide risks in high-mountain regions and to mitigate the impacts on communities.
    Project Lead Dr Anshuman Bhardwaj, senior lecturer in Geosciences at the University of Aberdeen, said: “Geohazards such as landslides cause extensive damage to essential infrastructure and local economies, leading to mass displacements. Understanding of these processes and their long-term impacts needs substantial research.
    “Our project will fill existing gaps in untangling the nexus between hazards, humans and infrastructure and aims to develop effective methods for monitoring and mitigating landslides in high mountains such as the Himalaya. By providing accurate hazard assessments, risk analyses, and community-based mitigation guidelines, our research will enhance resilience to geohazards and facilitate preparedness and increased awareness in high-mountain communities.
    “Considering that the UK is also facing increasing coastal erosion and landslides, the easily adaptable methodological framework of this project can be useful to implement locally.”
    The research will provide improved understanding of the relationship between slope failure mechanisms and slope materials, analyse and reconstruct past landslide events using tree-ring records, and model potentially destructive future glacial landslide events.
    The ground-breaking project integrates multiple disciplines to cover all aspects of landslides in a high-mountain catchment and will serve as a benchmark for similar research in other landslide-prone high-mountain regions, contributing to effective monitoring and mitigation of geohazards.
    Project Co-Lead Dr Lydia Sam, lecturer in Geosciences at the University of Aberdeen, added: “There is a lack of comprehensive hazard assessment models that consider both, the environmental as well as social aspects and our project is a much-needed step in that direction.”
    Indian Project Lead Dr S. Nawaz Ali explained: “The project will inform policymakers about landslide-prone regions, ensuring sustainable development of critical infrastructure. Mitigation strategies, such as identifying optimal shelter locations, alternative routes for food supply, trade and migration routes, slope stabilisation strategies, drainage and vegetation management, and adaptable land use planning will enhance resilience to geohazards.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Unlock your future: Plymouth’s biggest careers fair is here!

    Source: City of Plymouth

    Some of the city’s biggest and best-known employers are returning to take part in this year’s Launchpad Live, a two-day future careers event offering a unique glimpse into the city’s fastest-growing industries.

    Hosted at the Plymouth Life Centre, Launchpad Live will run on Thursday 26 and Friday 27 September 2024 and aims to inspire and raise aspirations of local young people and improve awareness of career choices and future progression pathways.

    Who are the employers attending?

    The event will feature a powerhouse of over 50 employers and organisations such as:

    • Babcock
    • University Hospital Plymouth NHS Trust
    • Plymouth City Council
    • Princess Yachts
    • Plymouth Community Homes
    • Kier BAM
    • Willmott Dixon
    • Vistry Group
    • Rowe IT
    • Theatre Royal Plymouth
    • Vospers
    • PFK Francis Clarke
    • Greenlight Safety and Training
    • Duchy College
    • HM Armed Forces
    • National Marine Park
    • City College Plymouth
    • Skills Group
    • Discovery College
    • Plymouth Manufacturers Group
    • Skills Launchpad Plymouth’s Youth Hub and the city’s sector skills partnerships –
    • Building Plymouth (promoting construction and the built environment)
    • Caring Plymouth (promoting health and social care)
    • Welcoming Plymouth (promoting hospitality, tourism and retail).

    These organisations are not just looking for employees, they’re looking for the future leaders of their industries.

    A hands-on experience

    With all Plymouth schools bringing along groups of students, more than 2,200 pupils will experience interactive zones, complete with the latest immersive technologies. Those attending will explore, learn, and engage directly with industry experts across Plymouth’s core sectors, including:

    • Marine, Engineering and Manufacturing
    • Health and Social Care
    • Construction and the Built Environment
    • Technology, Business, Legal and Creative Services
    • Armed Forces and Government Services
    • Tourism, Hospitality, Entertainment and Retail
    • Green and Sustainable Careers

    Launchpad Live is where opportunity meets innovation, offering unparalleled exposure to both traditional and emerging career paths. Whether you’re a student curious about your future or a business leader looking to inspire the next generation, this event is for you.

    The event is being organised by Plymouth City Council in partnership with YMCA Plymouth, Discovery College and City College Plymouth.

    Councillor Sally Cresswell, Cabinet Member for Education, Skills and Apprenticeships said: “This fantastic event will give thousands of young people the chance to meet employers, to learn about the exciting career opportunities available and better understand the investment and growth sectors that present future ambitious employment in Plymouth. It’s really important that we help employers and training providers, including further and higher education institutions, to showcase these opportunities directly with our young people, helping them to make better informed choices for their post-16 next steps.”

    Jonathan Keable, Chair of the Plymouth Employment and Skills Board and Leader of FSB Plymouth, said:
    “I’m incredibly proud to see over 50 of our city’s leading employers come together to not only showcase incredible opportunities but to actively inspire the next generation. This event is a testament to the commitment of our businesses and organisations in investing in Plymouth’s future workforce. Together, we are giving our young people the confidence and tools to dream bigger, reach higher, and shape their own destinies. A huge thank you to the organisers for delivering this transformative event. The line-up is outstanding, and I encourage anyone looking to take the next step to join us to explore your options and take action, because this is your chance to make it happen.”

    Tom Lavis, CEO of YMCA Plymouth said:

    “As a Plymouth charity that has supported young people’s aspirations in the city for 175 years, YMCA is delighted to bring this exciting careers event to life in partnership with Plymouth City Council. We believe it’s vital to showcase what fantastic opportunities are out there to young people and their parents. We’re very proud of how we have been able to make this event truly accessible for young people and the wide scope of employers and trainers, which has now made this an annual landmark event for the city.”

    Open to the Public!

    Launchpad Live will be open to the public on Thursday, 26 September, from 4pm to 6pm. Don’t miss this chance to meet employers, explore career options, and discover pathways that could change your life. All other times on both days are reserved for school bookings only.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Old School House highly commended at Building Excellence Awards

    Source: City of Sunderland

    Sunderland City Council’s project to transform a former school building into specialist homes has been highly commended at the regional LABC Building Excellence Awards.

    The awards are the largest business to business awards in the building control sector in the UK, and the Old School House in Washington was highly commended in the Best Small Social Housing Development category. 

    The awards recognised the scheme, which restored and extended the former Biddick School to create 15 specialist apartments for vulnerable adults.

    The new apartments were completed by JDDK Architects and Brims Construction after being developed by the council’s Housing Development Team as part of plans to deliver more homes for the residents most at need in the city. Under these plans, the city council is providing much-needed homes and one-storey accommodation for people living with disabilities as well as older residents.

    All apartments at the Old School House benefit from a high-quality specification developed with the end user in mind and the development boasts a landscaped courtyard for residents to enjoy, including seating designed by a local artist. 

    Councillor Kevin Johnston, Sunderland City Council’s Cabinet Member for Housing, Regeneration and Business, said: “We’re absolutely delighted to have been highly commended for the housing scheme at Washington Old School.  

    “These homes have been specially designed to meet the needs of vulnerable adults, so we’re delighted that the Old School House is making such a positive difference to residents’ lives and that this has been recognised.

    “This scheme sits beautifully alongside a community of homes that we developed as a local authority in 2021. It is just the latest project we have carried out to ensure the city benefits from a wider range of properties to support the needs of vulnerable residents and those living with disabilities.”

    JDDK Architects put the project forward for the award. Speaking about the work that went into the scheme, JDDK’s Associate Director Matthew Holmes said: “Working on this scheme was a challenge but the results speak for themselves, and this is down to the great team that worked together throughout the project.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: UGC alerts public to fraudulent websites

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    UGC alerts public to fraudulent websites
    UGC alerts public to fraudulent websites
    ****************************************

    The following is issued on behalf of the University Grants Committee:      The University Grants Committee (UGC) today (September 23) urged members of the public to remain vigilant against fraudulent websites, which were found to purport to be the website of the UGC.           The UGC hereby clarifies that its official website is www.ugc.edu.hk. The UGC Secretariat has reported the case to the Police.     A spokesperson for the UGC reminded members of the public to stay alert, and that they should refrain from visiting suspicious websites or disclosing any personal information. Anyone who has provided personal information to such websites should report to the Police as soon as possible.

     
    Ends/Monday, September 23, 2024Issued at HKT 19:02

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: SPbGASU Master’s student Leonid Nikolaev elected Chairman of the Student Council of St. Petersburg

    MIL OSI Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Saint Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering – Saint Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering – Leonid Nikolaev

    Leonid Nikolaev, a first-year master’s student at the Faculty of Environmental Engineering and Urban Management at SPbGASU, has been elected Chairman of the Student Council of St. Petersburg. This high recognition is a continuation of his successful experience in student self-government. As a bachelor’s student, he headed the student council of our university and, as he admits, is now ready to take the city’s student council to a new level.

    “I plan to intensify the work of the student council and make it more open to all students in the city. I am well aware of their current problems concerning transport, scholarships and benefits. I am confident that together with the city leadership we will be able to resolve them. The list of priority tasks also includes the development of professional communities, the organization of master classes, trainings, meetings with business representatives, which will allow students to develop professionally. By modernizing media channels and conducting regular surveys and meetings, we will improve communication between students and the council. We will support student initiatives, create conditions for the implementation of new projects that will benefit the entire student community,” Leonid shared his plans.

    We congratulate Leonid Nikolaev and wish him success in his new position!

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

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    http://www.spbgasu.ru/nevs-and-events/nevs/master-student-spbgasu-leonid-nikolaev-elected-chairman-of-the-student-council-of-St.-Petersburg/

    EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and or sentence structure not be perfect.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI: Bitfarms and Riot Announce Settlement

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    – Andrés Finkielsztain Steps Down from Board –
    – Bitfarms Appoints Amy Freedman to Board of Directors –
    – Board to Nominate an Independent Director for Election at Special Meeting –
    – Standstill Agreement Through 2026 Annual Meeting –

    This news release constitutes a “designated news release” for the purposes of the Company’s prospectus supplement dated March 8, 2024, to its short form base shelf prospectus dated November 10, 2023.

    TORONTO, Ontario and BROSSARD, Québec and CASTLE ROCK, Colo., Sept. 23, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bitfarms Ltd. (NASDAQ/TSX: BITF) (“Bitfarms” or the “Company”), a global leader in vertically integrated Bitcoin data center operations, and Riot Platforms Inc. (NASDAQ: RIOT) (“Riot”), an industry leader in vertically integrated Bitcoin (“BTC”) mining, today announced that Bitfarms and Riot have entered into a settlement agreement (the “Agreement”) in advance of the Special Meeting of Bitfarms Shareholders (the “Special Meeting”) currently scheduled for November 6, 2024, which will now be held virtually.

    Under the terms of the Agreement:

    • Andrés Finkielsztain has stepped down from Bitfarms’ Board of Directors (the “Board”).
    • Bitfarms has appointed Amy Freedman to its Board and the Governance and Nominating Committee and Compensation Committee of the Board, effective immediately.
    • Riot has agreed to withdraw its June 24, 2024 requisition, as amended, and to accept customary standstill provisions through the Bitfarms 2026 Annual Meeting, with certain exceptions.
    • At the Special Meeting, shareholders will be asked to approve an expansion of the Board from five members to six members, to elect an independent director nominated by the Board to serve as the sixth member of the Board, and to ratify the Company’s July 24, 2024, shareholder rights plan. Riot has agreed to vote in favour of these matters.
    • The Company has provided Riot with certain rights (subject to certain exceptions) to purchase shares of the Company provided Riot holds 15% or more of the outstanding common shares of the Company.

    As a result of the agreement to nominate an additional director for election at the Special Meeting, the Special Meeting may be delayed, but in no event will it be held later than November 20, 2024. The Company will update its shareholders on the timing of the Special Meeting as soon as it can.

    Brian Howlett, Independent Chairman of the Board, said “The Bitfarms Board is committed to effectively overseeing the execution of the Company’s strategic plan as we work to position Bitfarms to capitalize on the opportunities ahead. Additionally, we recognize the importance of refreshment and having the right mix of skills, experience and diversity, and we are always open to adding qualified candidates with valuable insights and perspectives to strengthen our Board. We are pleased to reach this agreement with Riot, which we believe is in the best interests of all Bitfarms shareholders.”

    Mr. Howlett continued, “On behalf of the Board and the entire company, I thank Andrés for his invaluable contributions to Bitfarms over the last four years. He brought great insights to the boardroom with his extensive knowledge of the financial and crypto industry. We wish him well in his future endeavors. We look forward to leveraging Amy’s extensive experience advising public companies as the Board works together to enhance shareholder value.”

    Ben Gagnon, Chief Executive Officer of Bitfarms, said, “We are pleased to reach this agreement with Riot and look forward to turning our full attention to executing our growth strategy. We remain focused on diversifying the business beyond Bitcoin mining into exciting and synergistic new areas like energy generation, energy trading, heat recycling and other high value revenue streams like HPC/AI.”

    Jason Les, Chief Executive Officer of Riot, said, “This agreement represents a significant step to advance shareholder value creation at our respective companies and we are pleased to have reached this constructive resolution with Bitfarms. As Bitfarms’ largest shareholder, we look forward to supporting a reconstituted Bitfarms Board and continued engagement with management.”

    A copy of the Agreement will be filed on Form 6-K with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) and will be posted to the Company’s SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca.

    About Amy Freedman

    Amy is a corporate governance and public capital markets expert with over 25 years of experience. She is currently an advisor to Ewing Morris and Co. Investment Partners, an alternative asset manager with both equity and credit strategies. In her role, Amy spearheads the fund’s engagement investment opportunities. Previously, she was CEO of Kingsdale Advisors, a leading shareholder services and advisory firm specializing in strategic and defensive advisory, governance advisory, proxy and voting analytics and investor communications. Ms. Freedman has spent over 15 years in capital markets as an investment banker with global firms including Stifel Financial Corp. and Morgan Stanley.

    Ms. Freedman is currently a director on the boards of Mandalay Resources Corporation (TSX: MND, OTCQB: MNDJF), Irish Residential Properties REIT plc (ISE: IRES) and American Hotel Income Properties REIT (TSX: HOT.UN, HOT.U). She holds an MBA and a JD from the University of Toronto.

    About Bitfarms Ltd.

    Founded in 2017, Bitfarms is a global vertically integrated Bitcoin mining data center company that contributes its computational power to one or more mining pools from which it receives payment in Bitcoin. Bitfarms develops, owns, and operates vertically integrated mining facilities with in-house management and company-owned electrical engineering, installation service, and multiple onsite technical repair centers. The Company’s proprietary data analytics system delivers best-in-class operational performance and uptime.

    Bitfarms currently has 12 operating Bitcoin data centers and two under development situated in four countries: Canada, the United States, Paraguay, and Argentina. Powered predominantly by environmentally friendly hydro-electric and long-term power contracts, Bitfarms is committed to using sustainable and often underutilized energy infrastructure.

    To learn more about Bitfarms’ events, developments, and online communities:

    www.bitfarms.com
    https://www.facebook.com/bitfarms/
    https://twitter.com/Bitfarms_io
    https://www.instagram.com/bitfarms/
    https://www.linkedin.com/company/bitfarms/

    About Riot Platforms, Inc.

    Riot’s (NASDAQ: RIOT) vision is to be the world’s leading Bitcoin-driven infrastructure platform. Our mission is to positively impact the sectors, networks and communities that we touch. We believe that the combination of an innovative spirit and strong community partnership allows Riot to achieve best-in-class execution and create successful outcomes.

    Riot, a Nevada corporation, is a Bitcoin mining and digital infrastructure company focused on a vertically integrated strategy. Riot has Bitcoin mining operations in central Texas and electrical switchgear engineering and fabrication operations in Denver, Colorado.

    For more information, visit www.riotplatforms.com.

    Cautionary Statement 

    Trading in the securities of the Company should be considered highly speculative. No stock exchange, securities commission or other regulatory authority has approved or disapproved the information contained herein. Neither the Toronto Stock Exchange, Nasdaq, or any other securities exchange or regulatory authority accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

    Forward-Looking Statements 

    This news release contains certain “forward-looking information” and “forward-looking statements” (collectively, “forward-looking information”) that are based on expectations, estimates and projections as at the date of this news release and are covered by safe harbors under Canadian and United States securities laws. The statements and information in this release regarding the strength and positive outcome of board of director renewal, the date of the Special Meeting, the merits and potential of the Company’s growth plan and diversification strategy, other growth opportunities and prospects, statements regarding future growth, plans and objectives of the Company and the maximization of shareholder value, are forward-looking information. Any statements that involve discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions, future events or performance (often but not always using phrases such as “expects”, or “does not expect”, “is expected”, “anticipates” or “does not anticipate”, “plans”, “budget”, “scheduled”, “forecasts”, “estimates”, “prospects”, “believes” or “intends” or variations of such words and phrases or stating that certain actions, events or results “may” or “could”, “would”, “might” or “will” be taken to occur or be achieved) are not statements of historical fact and may be forward-looking information.

    This forward-looking information is based on assumptions and estimates of management of the Company and Riot, as applicable, at the time they were made, and involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance, or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Such factors include, among others, various risks relating to the operations and business of the Company, the future performance, liquidity and financial position of the Company and Riot, and uncertainties as to timing of the Special Meeting or the outcome. For further information concerning these and other risks and uncertainties, refer to (i) the Company’s filings on www.sedarplus.ca (which are also available on the website of the SEC at www.sec.gov), including the MD&A for the year-ended December 31, 2023, filed on March 7, 2024 and the MD&A for the three and six months ended June 30, 2024 filed on August 8, 2024, and (ii) Riot’s filings with the SEC, including the risks, uncertainties and other factors discussed under the sections entitled “Risk Factors” and “Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements” of Riot’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2023, filed with the SEC on February 23, 2024, and the other filings Riot has made or will make with the SEC after such date, copies of which may be obtained from the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. Although the Company and Riot have attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended, including factors that are currently unknown to or deemed immaterial by the Company. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on any forward-looking information. The Company undertakes no obligation to revise or update any forward-looking information other than as required by law.

    Investor Relations Contacts:

    For Bitfarms:

    Bitfarms
    Tracy Krumme
    SVP, Head of IR & Corp. Comms.
    +1 786-671-5638
    tkrumme@bitfarms.com

    Innisfree M&A Incorporated
    Gabrielle Wolf / Scott Winter
    +1 212-750-5833

    Laurel Hill Advisory Group
    1-877-452-7184
    +1 416-304-0211
    assistance@laurelhill.com

    For Riot:

    Phil McPherson
    303-794-2000 ext. 110
    IR@Riot.Inc

    Media Contacts:

    For Bitfarms:

    U.S.: Joele Frank, Wilkinson Brimmer Katcher
    Dan Katcher or Joseph Sala
    +1 212-355-4449

    Québec: Tact
    Louis-Martin Leclerc
    +1 418-693-2425
    lmleclerc@tactconseil.ca

    For Riot:

    Longacre Square Partners
    Joe Germani / Dan Zacchei
    jgermani@longacresquare.com / dzacchei@longacresquare.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Johnson C. Smith University Selects Enterprise Networking Innovator Nile to Power its Campus-Wide Network

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN JOSE, Calif., Sept. 23, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Nile, the pioneer of a new breed of enterprise network solutions aimed at securing organizations from cyberattacks and automating daily operations, today announced that Johnson C. Smith University (JCSU), a leading Historically Black College and University (HBCU), has selected the Nile Access Service to replace its existing wired and wireless LAN solution across its entire campus. The institution selected Nile’s solution due to its unique performance guarantees for availability, coverage, and capacity, its AI-powered “as-a-Service” architecture that automates network lifecycle management, and its native campus zero trust security that prevents lateral movement attacks such as ransomware.

    “Our number one goal in IT is to deliver a satisfying experience for our student body. That means handling their needs for high-performance connectivity, but also ensuring they’re secure as well,’” said John Norris, CIO, JCSU. “As we considered a refresh, I knew I needed a partner as much as a new solution. I have an amazing staff, but considering everything we had to deliver in implementing a new network, including security, performance, and reliability, whatever we selected had to augment my current resources, not create new demands. Nile nailed it on all fronts.”

    Located in Charlotte, North Carolina, JCSU is a premier professional liberal arts HBCU with thousands of students and faculty that require reliable, secure, and high-performance connectivity. Its existing hardware-centric managed wireless network had aged significantly, and its vendors were no longer providing support despite their unpredictably high licensing costs. A potential increase from 5% to 30% in those costs, often without notice, was cause for concern, along with making budgeting a challenge. Additionally, students and faculty were both very vocal about the network’s poor performance. On top of these issues, the previous solution had no modern security component, something critical to the overall health and safety of the student body and the university network.

    JSCU quickly turned to Nile to address all of these demands. Nile delivered high-performance, secure wired and wireless LAN connectivity across the entire campus, including student, faculty, and administrative buildings, as well as outdoor campus settings.

    • Performance Guarantees – Prior to Nile, JCSU’s students regularly complained about the network’s performance, particularly for high-demand applications like gaming. With an on-campus eSports league, performance quickly became a top priority for ensuring student satisfaction. What’s more, faculty regularly expressed concerns about students’ ability to deliver work assignments. Thanks to Nile’s industry-first performance guarantees for availability, coverage, and capacity, Nile was the only vendor to ensure high-performance connectivity for the entire campus.
    • Built-in Campus Zero Trust Security—Nile is the only vendor to offer per-device isolation and the elimination of lateral movement attacks, such as ransomware, from Day 1, with no configuration or professional services required. This capability was critical with the number of services that JCSU offers, both on-premises and in the cloud.
    • Network Observability and Management Automation – Augmenting JCSU’s existing IT staff and providing 24/7 visibility into the system’s overall health was essential in selecting Nile for its network refresh. Nile’s extensive sensor network and AI-based automation doesn’t just identify problems; it proactively solves many of them without human intervention, all while providing IT leadership with granular insight into the network’s overall health.
    • Nile’s “as-a-Service” Model and overall TCO – With a predictable payment model, instead of massive upfront costs for a hardware-centric network architecture, JSCU’s team was more easily able to get the budget for this project approved. This also meant that IT no longer had to worry about unpredictable licensing costs or the next hardware upgrade/refresh cycle. All of those costs are included in their subscription fee. That’s why Nile delivers the industry’s best Total-Cost-of-Ownership (TCO).

    “The predictability, reliability, and security of the Nile Access Service make it ideal for higher education settings,” said Surbhi Kaul, Nile’s vice president, Customer Experience. “These organizations are often challenged by budget, availability of certain IT skills, and resource management issues, but still need to deliver a solid foundation of connectivity for students, faculty, and administration alike. At Nile, we’re proud to make that possible for historical campuses like JCSU.”

    About the Nile Access Service

    The Nile Access Service is powered by a new approach for securing enterprise networks that combines built-in zero trust security for the campus, cloud native software delivery, AI, and automation with a high-performance wired and wireless LAN in an “as-a-Service” offering. The Nile Access Service was built from the ground up to prevent lateral movement cyber attacks while completely automating the network lifecycle management process. This complete service offering is a comprehensive package including hardware and software components, 24/7 support, and zero upfront capital expense, all of which are backed by the industry’s only performance guarantees for availability, coverage, and capacity.

    To learn more about the Nile Access Service, visit https://nilesecure.com/solutions/nile-access-service

    About Nile

    Nile is disrupting the enterprise network market by building natively secure connectivity that modernizes IT operations with a new AI networking architecture, delivering enterprise networks entirely as a service. For the first time in the industry, the Nile Access Service integrates zero trust security and offers performance guarantees for connectivity, coverage, and availability. With Nile, IT organizations close the gap between their digital aspirations and legacy realities with superior connectivity that reduces the burden on critical IT resources. For more information, visit nilesecure.com/solutions/nile-access-service.

    Media Contacts:
    Nichols Communications for Nile
    Jay Nichols
    +1 408-772-1551
    jay@nicholscomm.com

    The MIL Network –