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  • MIL-OSI Economics: Joachim Nagel: Introducing a digital euro – the cross-border dimension

    Source: Bank for International Settlements

    Check against delivery 

    1 Introduction

    Dear Governor Das,

    dear colleagues,

    ladies and gentlemen,

    I am delighted to be here with you today, at this wonderful location, visiting this wonderful country – one of the cradles of world civilisation and culture. 

    The Reserve Bank of India is currently celebrating its foundation 90 years ago. My heartfelt congratulations to all members of staff on this anniversary! Last year, Indian real-time payment systems processed about 129 billion digital transactions.1 This means that 84% of electronic payment transactions took place in real time. During the same period, only about 19% of electronic payments worldwide were real-time transactions. In my view, this is impressive evidence of the excellent work the RBI has accomplished over the last few years.

    Payment systems and their cross-border interaction are also an important topic at this conference. This is because cross-border payments are an integral part of our globalised world. Historically, from the Renaissance to modern times, correspondent banks have acted as the bedrock for cross-border payment transactions.2 However, even today, transferring funds by means of correspondent banking is often slow, involves many steps and may result in high and non-transparent fees. 

    Moreover, in the last two decades, correspondent banking has been subject to a downward trend, mainly due to increasingly strict compliance requirements. Between 2011 and 2022, the number of active correspondents decreased by roughly one third, while the value of cross-border payments increased by almost 40%.3 Obviously, this is an alarming trend in terms of market competition.

    To some extent, technical progress might be able to compensate for a tighter correspondent banking market. In particular, in the last decade, a number of FinTech companies have provided new opportunities to streamline cross-border payments using innovative methods like blockchain and digital wallets.  The FinTech revolution focused on private money. However, it now appears there may be another revolution on the horizon – this time involving payments in central bank money: the introduction of central bank digital currencies (CBDC).

    In my talk, I would like to address CBDC developments with a particular focus on cross-border payments. First, I will outline some general points about the potential impact and benefits of the introduction of CBDC for processing cross-border transactions. Second, I will aim to highlight this topic in the context of the Eurosystem’s work on a digital euro – the envisaged European retail CBDC.

    2 CBDCs and cross-border payments

    Given that there are correspondent banks and FinTechs working on digital innovations as well, let me begin with a question. What would be the additional benefits of CBDCs in the area of digital payments? The introduction of CBDCs would facilitate a setup of new infrastructures for digital payments. On the one hand, this makes high initial investment necessary. On the other hand, once a CBDC is established with its new infrastructure, it could catalyse broad improvements in payment systems, including cross-border transactions – by introducing new message standards and shorter process chains, for example.4

    Starting on a green field may be one major advantage of CBDCs. Experience shows that, in particular, implementing common standards is not an easy task. Take ISO 20022, for example.5 The International Organisation for Standardisation proposed this common standard for financial messages in cross-border payments in 2004. It will be probably more widely used in payment systems on a global level next year – 21 years after the initial proposal. This period feels even longer when you think of all the innovations that have taken place in the meantime – the first iPhone was presented in 2007, the concept of a decentralised blockchain in 2008.

    However, to be able to reap the benefits for cross-border payment, interoperability between CBDCs must be ensured early on. To this end, central banks should already begin to consider the best ways for interaction in the planning phase. In my view, we have a historic opportunity to vastly improve cross-border transactions by making different CBDCs interoperable from the very beginning.

    Indeed, a number of projects are already researching the best ways of making CBDCs interoperable. For instance, the Bank for International Settlement (BIS) Innovation Hub in Singapore and a number of national central banks in the Indo-Pacific region set up Project Dunbar to explore how a common platform for CBDCs could enable cheaper, faster and safer cross-border payments.6

    I am strongly in favour of a multilateral approach in this area, because this best serves the interests of all participants. If central banks proceed in a largely unilateral way instead, we not only risk inefficiencies, but also undesirable interferences. Consider a scenario in which a CBDC is made available for holders abroad in a unilateral way. In such a case, we could see currency substitution or appreciation pressure for the domestic currency. Also, the balance sheet of the CBDC emitting central bank could strongly expand. A knock-on effect may be that domestic monetary policy in countries that suffer from increased currency substitution becomes less effective. By contrast, a multilateral approach including reasonable holding limits could mitigate these risks.

    Meanwhile, the RBI has made valuable contributions to the topic of retail CBDC. The digital rupee based on blockchain technology was launched on 1 December 2022. It is issued by the central bank and distributed by commercial banks. As I understand it, the RBI intends to tap the potential for using CBDCs in cross-border payments as well.

    3 A digital euro: The cross-border dimension

    In the Eurosystem, we expect a digital euro to be launched in just a few years’ time. The primary goal of a digital euro is meet the domestic needs of the euro area. To some extent, however, this goal already includes a significant cross-border dimension. Let me explain what I mean by that. A quarter century on from the introduction of the euro, there is still no single pan-European solution for digital payments when people go shopping in stores or online. This means there is a risk that traditional cashless payment solutions offered by private European payment service providers will not match customer needs.

    To be fair, some euro area Member States have successfully implemented innovative digital solutions in the area of payments – I am thinking, for example, of the online payment system iDEAL in the Netherlands or Bizum Wallet in Spain. However, such payment solutions by themselves usually only function within national borders. Promising initiatives have been underway in recent years to widen the scope of these solutions. For example, iDEAL was successfully acquired by the European Payments Initiative, a company founded by several European banks and financial services companies. This initiative seeks to create a truly pan-European payment solution in the near to medium term. 

    This shows that the European payments sector has made meaningful progress; however, there are challenges further ahead. International payment providers, particularly those offering credit card schemes, still heavily dominate the European market for payment services – and even more when it comes to payments abroad.

    A digital euro would be a major step forward in this context. It would provide a standardised digital means of payment for day-to-day transactions throughout the euro area. Despite the need for a more integrated payment system, we are determined to prevent the Eurosystem’s footprint in the European financial system from becoming too large. We are therefore planning to issue a digital euro, but not to distribute it. This means that banks and other payment providers should assume the role of the CBDC interface between the Eurosystem and the customers.

    The euro area currently consists of 20 Member States, each of which has its own banking system with its own unique features. Against this background, I am sure you can imagine the overall complexity of our task. Therefore, our current focus is on making the digital euro accessible for all users within the euro area. We are investing great effort in our work on this, and we are constantly explaining what we do and why we do it, not least because a number of people are sceptical of CBDCs. 

    Once we have accomplished a digital euro for all users within the euro area, it will, in my view, be worth considering making it accessible to users outside the euro area as well. Rules for geographical access to a digital euro will be set down in legislation. If European legislation allows, access to a digital euro can also be granted to consumers and firms in the Member States of the European Economic Area outside the euro area. Selected non-EU countries can be included as well.7

    Ideally, the D€ would be interoperable with other CBDCs from the very start, for example, for person-to-person payments or commercial payments from or to firms outside the euro area. However, this is currently a vision for the future, since, as already mentioned, we first have to overcome numerous challenges to establish a retail digital euro that works within the euro area.

    4 Concluding remarks

    Let me conclude. So far, CBDCs are newcomers to the world of payment systems. We can only estimate how large a role they will end up playing in payment transactions. This is all the more true when it comes to cross-border payments.

    The scepticism about CBDCs in many quarters is not uncommon for many technological innovations. For example, in the early 1980s, “computerphobia” was a widespread phenomenon.8 This took a wide range of forms, even fear of physically touching a computer or feeling threatened by those who worked with them. Today, this may seem very strange to us. Computers have since become an essential day-to-day tool for us.

    And so we will continue our efforts to implement CBDCs. I am confident that this will ultimately make our payment systems better, faster and more efficient.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Housing Design Catalogue: Federal government provides update

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    Today, the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities, provided an update on progress to date for the Housing Design Catalogue. This new initiative under Canada’s Housing Plan will provide standardized designs and reduce the time required for design, approvals, and construction of new housing.

    Ottawa, Ontario, October 14, 2024 — Today, the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities, provided an update on progress to date for the Housing Design Catalogue. This new initiative under Canada’s Housing Plan will provide standardized designs and reduce the time required for design, approvals, and construction of new housing.

    Minister Fraser announced that the first iteration of the catalogue will be launched in December and include up to 50 conceptual designs commissioned by the federal government through a Request for Proposals (RFP) process. These designs will include row housing, fourplexes, sixplexes, and accessory dwelling units that builders will be able to use to simplify and speed up the delivery of housing across the country.

    The successful proponents of the RFP process, who will create the low-rise designs, are:

    • MGA | Michael Green Architecture, who will deliver designs covering the British Columbia region; and, 
    • LGA Architectural Partners Ltd., who will work with five other teams of regional experts to deliver designs covering the regions of Alberta, the Prairies, Ontario, Quebec, the Atlantic, and the North.

    In the first iteration of the catalogue, the government will also look to include designs selected through an open submission process, launched today. The Prefabricated Housing Industry Design Submission is inviting industry members to submit existing prefabricated housing designs. It is also seeking information on the current products, capabilities, and technologies in the industry – as well as the role of prefabricated and other innovative homebuilding techniques in speeding up the pace of construction – to support the federal government’s work in tackling the housing crisis.

    Companies building modular, panelized, and 3D printed houses have until November 6, 2024, to respond to the submission.

    In November, the federal government will also launch a competition to source innovative designs for mid-rise buildings that will help inform the next iteration of the catalogue.

    The federal government is working with provinces, territories, and municipalities to expedite approvals for standardized designs. Accessing federal dollars under the Canada Housing Infrastructure Fund is also conditional on provinces and territories collaborating with the federal government to adopt designs from the Housing Design Catalogue.

    To create additional efficiencies, the federal government is also integrating other programs and initiatives with the Housing Design Catalogue. 

    • Budget 2024 provided $11.6 million in 2024-25 to support the development of the Housing Design Catalogue for up to 50 designs to simplify and accelerate housing approvals and builds.

    • In January 2024, the Government of Canada began targeted engagements with key stakeholders, partners, and experts to inform the types of designs, features, and amenities in the Housing Design Catalogue. 

    • In July 2024, the government launched a Request for Proposals (RFP) process to seek design services for the development of low-rise designs as part of the Housing Design Catalogue. The RFP closed on August 7, 2024.

    • Based in Vancouver and Victoria, British Columbia, MGA | Michael Green Architecture designs and builds innovative and sustainable projects in Canada and around the world.

    • LGA Architectural Partners Ltd. is a Toronto-based team of architects, building scientists, and technologists who has focused extensively on accessory dwelling units and various types and scales of multi-unit residential housing.

      • LGA Architectural Partners Ltd. will be working with five other teams of regional experts to ensure a national approach to the catalogue that reflects the needs of each region: Dub Architects (Alberta), 5468796 Architecture (Prairies), KANVA (Quebec), Abbott Brown Architects (Atlantic), and Taylor Architecture Group (North). LGA Architectural Partners will be covering Ontario.

    • The Prefabricated Housing Industry Design Submission will also support an Industrial Strategy for Homebuilding that will help further expedite homebuilding, provide additional ideas on how homes can be built, and bring down housing costs for Canadians. 

    • As part of the first iteration of the catalogue, conceptual designs will be available in December 2024 and include floor plans, illustrative drawings, and basic information about each of the proposed designs. This will be followed by permit-ready design packages in early 2025, which will include all the necessary drawings, specifications, and documents for how each design will be constructed and perform. The packages will also include detailed construction cost estimates. Regional packages will be fully compliant with building code requirements.

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

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Former Lord Mayor Keiran Mulhall

    Source: City of Coventry

    Tributes have been paid to a former Coventry Lord Mayor and councillor who died at the weekend.

    Keiran Mulhall served as a councillor for Radford ward between 1998 and 2018, and as Lord Mayor in 2011.

    He was made an Honorary Alderman in 2018.
     

    Leader of the Council, Cllr George Duggins, said: “Keiran played a full part in the life of the city and laid a wreath in the Memorial Park on behalf of the Royal Army Medical Corps as recently as November last year.

    “He was a dedicated and caring councillor and loved his city. I shall miss Keiran as a friend, as I know many of us on the Council will.”

    Lord Mayor Cllr Mal Mutton, who served with Keiran as a fellow Radford councillor, said: “I know that being named Lord Mayor of his city was a great honour for him and he was so proud.

    “He was a brilliant ward councillor who cared deeply for the city, for Radford and for its people. He will be truly missed, and I have lost a really dear friend. Our thoughts are with his loved ones.”

    Cllr Gary Ridley, Leader of the Opposition Conservative Group, added: ““Keiran was a real servant of the people, and he contributed fully to civic life over many years in a number of different roles.

    “He was also great company, and I enjoyed spending time with him on many occasions. I’ll particularly remember his wit and sense of humour.”

    Keiran was married to Norma who died during his year as Lord Mayor. He was born in the city and spent almost his whole life in Wyken and worked at Daimler Motor Company for 40 years.

    He joined Daimler when he was 15 and spent his entire working life with the company – except for a short gap in the 1950s when he travelled to Germany and Belgium with the Royal Army Medical Corps as part of his National Service.

    Details of the funeral have yet to be announced.

    Monday, 14th October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: A classroom equipped by Novard Group of Companies opened at the State University of Management

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: State University of Management – Official website of the State –

    On October 14, 2024, the State University of Management opened a new auditorium equipped by the university’s industrial partner, the Novard Group of Companies.

    The opening was attended by the rector of the State University of Management Vladimir Stroyev, vice-rectors Dmitry Bryukhanov, Vitaly Lapshenkov and Artem Terpugov, director of the Institute of Marketing Gennady Azoyev, head of the advertising and public relations department Vasily Starostin, as well as the management of the Novard Group of Companies, graduates of the State University of Management: president Andrey Iliopulo, vice-presidents Sergey Sarkisov and Vadim Kirillov.

    Auditorium A-535 will primarily be used for master’s students, international students, and anyone wishing to attend classes with renowned guest lecturers. It is equipped with a teacher’s computer, a stationary microphone and a mobile headset, three screens, and a camera with speaker tracking.

    Rector of GUU Vladimir Stroyev thanked the management of “Novard” for their assistance in equipping the auditorium and active participation in the life of the university, including the activities of the Association of GUU Graduates. Vladimir Vitalyevich noted that it was at GUU that the first department of entrepreneurship in Russia was opened, and following traditions and honoring history is one of the most important trends in modern domestic education.

    The President of the State Institution “Novard” Andrey Iliopulo said that the photographs with quotes from famous entrepreneurs of the 19th century, reproductions of which decorate the walls of the office, were taken from the Museum of Entrepreneurs, Patrons and Philanthropists, together with which “Novard” holds a thematic competition for students and schoolchildren. Andrey Andreyevich noted that for domestic entrepreneurship, it was initially important not only to enrich, but also to care about honor and dignity, therefore, studying the activities of patrons of the past is useful for the educational process.

    Director of the Marketing Institute Gennady Azoyev thanked the management of the Novard Group of Companies and the rector’s office of the State University of Management for their comprehensive assistance and support in the development of the Marketing Institute. Gennady Lazarevich expressed the opinion that the active participation of Novard in the life of the university should serve as a good example for other successful graduates of the State University of Management. He also noted that this year the anniversary is celebrated by the State University of Management, Novard, the Marketing Institute, and the Marketing Department.

    On the occasion, the IM employees demonstrated to the audience another new classroom next door – a computer lab for design and advertising classes.

    The Novard Group of Companies was founded in 1989 in Moscow by students of the State University of Management. It is represented by the fashionable footwear and accessories chain EKONIKA, the full-cycle developer City21, the commercial real estate management company Novard Estate Management Limited and one of the leading suppliers of industrial and construction equipment in the Russian Federation – Rutektor. Novard sees its mission as the development and promotion of a model of successful creative entrepreneurship that combines the best Russian traditions and modern business practices.

    Subscribe to the TG channel “Our GUU” Date of publication: 10/14/2024

    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.

    https://guu.ru/auditorium-equipped-opened/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI: AGBA TAKES FINAL STEP TOWARD COMPLETION OF TRILLER MERGER

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    The previously announced reverse stock split to comply with Nasdaq’s rules in connection with the merger will take effect on October 15, 2024.

    NEW YORK, NY / LOS ANGELES, CA , Oct. 14, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —  AGBA Group Holding Limited (Nasdaq: AGBA) (“AGBA” or the “Company”) and Triller Corp. (“Triller”) today announced that Nasdaq approval for their merger was received on October 11, 2024. The merger is now expected to be completed on October 15, 2024.

    This merger represents the next step in AGBA and Triller’s collective strategic visions in the digital economy. The combination of AGBA and Triller will accelerate innovation, clear a path towards rapid growth and expand the combined company’s market presence globally, creating unparalleled value for all stakeholders of the company.

    The 1-for-4 reverse stock split is implemented in order to remain in compliance with Nasdaq’s rules in connection with the merger with Triller Corp. (“Triller”). The combined company’s shares will commence trading on a split-adjusted basis on October 16, 2024.

    About AGBA   

    Established in 1993, AGBA Group Holding Limited (Nasdaq: “AGBA”) is a leading, multi-channel business platform that incorporates cutting edge machine-learning and offers a broad set of financial services and healthcare products to consumers through a tech-led ecosystem, enabling clients to unlock the choices that best suit their needs. Trusted by over 400,000 individual and corporate customers, the Group is organized into four market-leading businesses: Platform Business, Distribution Business, Healthcare Business, and Fintech Business.

    For more information, please visit http://www.agba.com.

    About Triller Corp.     
    Triller Corp. is a next generation, AI-powered, social media and live-streaming event platform for creators. Pairing music culture with sports, fashion, entertainment, and influencers through a 360-degree view of content and technology, Triller Corp. uses proprietary AI technology to push and track content virally to affiliated and non-affiliated sites and networks, enabling them to reach millions of additional users. Triller Corp. additionally owns Triller Sports, Bare-Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC); Amplify.ai, a leading machine-learning, AI platform; and TrillerTV, a premier global PPV, AVOD, and SVOD streaming service.

    For more information, visit http://www.triller.co.

    Investor Relations:     
    Bethany Lai
    ir@agba.com

    Safe Harbor Statement
    This press release contains forward-looking statements as defined by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements include statements concerning plans, objectives, goals, strategies, future events or performance, and underlying assumptions and other statements that are other than statements of historical facts. When the Company uses words such as “may,” “will,” “intend,” “should,” “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “project,” “estimate” or similar expressions that do not relate solely to historical matters, it is making forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks and uncertainties that may cause the actual results to differ materially from the Company’s expectations discussed in the forward-looking statements. These statements are subject to uncertainties and risks including, but not limited to, the following: the closing of the merger; the expected date of the merger; the market effective date of the Company’s actions; the Company’s goals and strategies; the Company’s future business development; product and service demand and acceptance; changes in technology; economic conditions; the outcome of any legal proceedings that may be instituted against us following the consummation of the business combination; expectations regarding its strategies and future financial performance, including its future business plans or objectives, prospective performance and opportunities and competitors, revenues, products, pricing, operating expenses, market trends, liquidity, cash flows and uses of cash, capital expenditures, and its ability to invest in growth initiatives and pursue acquisition opportunities; reputation and brand; the impact of competition and pricing; government regulations; fluctuations in general economic and business conditions in Hong Kong and the international markets the Company plans to serve and assumptions underlying or related to any of the foregoing and other risks contained in reports filed by the Company with the SEC, the length and severity of the recent coronavirus outbreak, including its impacts across its business and operations. For these reasons, among others, investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance upon any forward-looking statements in this press release. Additional factors are discussed in the Company’s filings with the SEC, which are available for review at http://www.sec.gov. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly revise these forward–looking statements to reflect events or circumstances that arise after the date hereof.

    # # #

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Registration of share capital increase in IDEX Biometrics 14 Oct 2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Reference is made to the notice on 9 October 2024 regarding issue of Tranche 2 shares and the warrants of the private placement completed on 16 September 2024. The private placement consisted of two tranches, with total gross proceeds amounting to NOK 70 million.

    The share capital increase related to the Tranche 2 shares has been registered and the shares will be delivered soonest. The Tranche 2 shares will be delivered on a separate and non-tradable ISIN, pending publication by the Company of a prospectus approved by the Norwegian Financial Supervisory Authority.

    Following the issue, the Company’s share capital will be NOK 120,812,483.10 divided into 805,416,554 shares, each with a nominal value of NOK 0.15.

    For further information contact:
    Marianne Bøe, Investor Relations
    E-mail: marianne.boe@idexbiometrics.com
    Tel: +47 918 00186

    About IDEX Biometrics
    IDEX Biometrics ASA (OSE: IDEX) is a global technology leader in fingerprint biometrics, offering authentication solutions across payments, access control, and digital identity. Our solutions bring convenience, security, peace of mind and seamless user experiences to the world. Built on patented and proprietary sensor technologies, integrated circuit designs, and software, our biometric solutions target card-based applications for payments and digital authentication. As an industry-enabler we partner with leading card manufacturers and technology companies to bring our solutions to market. 

    For more information, visit http://www.idexbiometrics.com

    About this notice
    This notice was issued by Erling Svela, Vice president of finance, on 14 October 2024 at 18:10 CET on behalf of IDEX Biometrics ASA. The information shall be disclosed according to section 5‑8 of the Norwegian Securities Trading Act (STA) and released in accordance with section 5‑12 of the STA.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Customer experience still an untapped opportunity to drive sales growth for auto brands and mobility providers

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Press contact:
    Florence Lièvre
    Tel.: +33 1 47 54 50 71
    Email: florence.lievre@capgemini.com

    Customer experience still an untapped opportunity to drive sales growth for auto brands and mobility providers

    • Three quarters (76%) of vehicle/mobility services customers expect the same hassle-free end-to-end experience offered by other industries
    • However, most organizations (73%) are over-indexing on the importance of reputation in customer experience instead of prioritizing digital experiences and post-purchase services
    • Nearly half of consumers (48%) are likely to shift to mobility subscription-based services over vehicle ownership given the flexibility these services offer

    Paris, October 14, 2024 – The Capgemini Research Institute’s latest report titled ‘Joining the race: Automotive’s drive to catch up with customer experience’, published today, reveals a significant gap between how automotive business leaders and consumers perceive the quality of their customer experience (CX). In today’s competitive landscape, customer expectations are shaped by exceptional service standards across various industries, yet the survey shows that automotive CX frequently falls below par, ranking 9thout of 13 major consumer-facing industries. In comparison, mobility-as-a-service is overall ranked higher by customers, but with a significant variation depending on the country.

    According to the report, the Net Promoter Score (NPS®)1 for vehicle brands shows a notable gap between customer and organizations’ perceptions of CX. Whilst executives surveyed estimate this score at 14, consumers score automotive brands an average NPS rating of 2, lower than any other consumer-facing industry.

    Perception gaps in brand reputation, ease of use and access, and emotional connection
    While 73% of vehicle brands or mobility providers consider brand reputation as the top factor in the buying decision, only 48% of consumers surveyed do. In addition, emotional connection with the brand is also considered as an important factor by consumers (41%) compared to only 24% of organizations surveyed.

    Ease of use and accessibility emerge as a top priority that influence the large majority (76%) of consumer decisions to opt for or stay with a vehicle brand or mobility service, whereas only 51% of organizations consider it as a priority: consumers surveyed expect seamless and hassle-free functionality across apps, dashboard screens, battery charging, and insurance claims (77%), best-in-class digital experience (59%), and eco-friendly options (51%).

    According to the report, only 29% of automotive brands and mobility services customers rate consistent experiences across channels as extremely good or good. The vast majority (90%) report dissatisfaction with the integrated services – pre-purchase to aftersales – provided to them, for instance, the availability of a single app for all vehicle or transport needs.

    Seven in ten organizations consider CX as a C-level priority, with opportunities to be seized in digital experiences and post-purchase services
    Fewer than one in five (17%) organizations surveyed involve IT or digital teams in CX initiatives while three-quarters of customers are feeling dissatisfied with digital experiences.

    In 41% of organizations surveyed, CX is limited to a few functional areas, such as sales, customer service and support. Only one-third (27%) involve marketing and communications, in contrast to research and development for nearly half of them (49%).

    Overall, the report highlights that CX initiatives are disproportionately focused on the pre-purchase and purchase phases in contrast with the post-purchase stages of the customer journey, like servicing and maintenance and end of life of vehicle, including reselling, renewing subscriptions, and refurbishing. 57% of consumers surveyed who are planning to switch brands within 6-18 months express dissatisfaction with their post-purchase service and maintenance experience.

    “Amid constant industry change, focusing on customer interactions is essential. But, when it comes to delivering a consistent customer experience ‘one size does not fit all’,” said Laurence Noël, Head of Global Automotive Industry at Capgemini. “Mobility consumers demand the same level of experience than the one offered by other sectors that is hassle-free, digitalized, and sustainable. A cultural shift is underway, notably among Gen Z, millennials, and Gen X consumers in Europe from vehicle ownership to on-demand access to transportation. Automotive organizations should seize the opportunity offered by CX-enhancing digital solutions to create true end-to-end customer journeys focusing the full lifecycle, beyond pre-sales/sales offerings, that include maintenance, software updates, and personalized services. In this fast-changing highly competitive market, a full-mobility experience across the customer journey until the end-life of the vehicle, can be seen as a top priority for brands to differentiate themselves.”

    Report Methodology
    The Capgemini Research Institute surveyed 600 senior executives from large automotive OEMs (including passenger cars, two- and three-wheelers, trucks, and buses), fleet service organizations, dealers, aftersales organizations, and Mobility-as-a-Service (MaaS) providers (e.g., car rental, taxi, and ridesharing providers). The surveyed automotive passenger-car OEMs and dealers each have an annual revenue exceeding $1 billion, while the OEMs producing two- and three-wheelers, trucks, and buses, as well as the fleet service and aftersales organizations, and MaaS providers each have annual revenue over $300 million. These executives are based in 10 countries across North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific. The global survey took place in August 2024.
    The research also included a global survey of 10,000 consumers over the age of 18 across 11 countries. To complement the survey findings, the Institute also conducted in-depth discussions with 32 CX experts from automotive and MaaS organizations, as well as from other consumer-facing industries, such as hospitality and hotels, consumer products and retail, luxury goods and retail, consumer electronics, airlines and transport, and banking and insurance.

    About Capgemini
    Capgemini is a global business and technology transformation partner, helping organizations to accelerate their dual transition to a digital and sustainable world, while creating tangible impact for enterprises and society. It is a responsible and diverse group of 340,000 team members in more than 50 countries. With its strong over 55-year heritage, Capgemini is trusted by its clients to unlock the value of technology to address the entire breadth of their business needs. It delivers end-to-end services and solutions leveraging strengths from strategy and design to engineering, all fueled by its market leading capabilities in AI, cloud and data, combined with its deep industry expertise and partner ecosystem. The Group reported 2023 global revenues of €22.5 billion.
    Get The Future You Want | http://www.capgemini.com

    About the Capgemini Research Institute
    The Capgemini Research Institute is Capgemini’s in-house think-tank on all things digital. The Institute publishes research on the impact of digital technologies on large traditional businesses. The team draws on the worldwide network of Capgemini experts and works closely with academic and technology partners. The Institute has dedicated research centers in India, Singapore, the United Kingdom and the United States. It was recently ranked #1 in the world for the quality of its research by independent analysts.
    Visit us at https://www.capgemini.com/researchinstitute/

    1 Net Promoter Score (NPS®) is a metric used to measure customer loyalty and satisfaction with a company’s products or services.

    Attachments

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: RUBIS: Transactions carried out within the framework of the share buyback programme (excluding transactions within the liquidity agreement) – 7 to 11 october 2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Paris, 14 October 2024, 06:00pm

    Issuer Name: Rubis (LEI: 969500MGFIKUGLTC9742)
    Category of securities: Ordinary shares (ISIN: FR0013269123)
    Period: From 7 to 11 October 2024

    In accordance with the authorisation granted by the Ordinary Shareholders’ Meeting held on 11 June 2024 to implement a share buyback programme, the Company operated, between 7 and 11 October 2024, the purchases of its own shares in view of their cancelation presented below.

    Aggregate presentation per day and per market

    Name of issuer Identification
    code of issuer
    (Legal Entity Identifier)    		 Day of transaction Identification code of financial instrument Aggregated daily volume (in number of shares) Daily weighted average price of the purchased shares* Market (MIC Code)
    RUBIS 969500MGFIKUGLTC9742 07/10/2024 FR0013269123 2,139 25.7405 AQEU
    RUBIS 969500MGFIKUGLTC9742 07/10/2024 FR0013269123 8,899 25.7427 CEUX
    RUBIS 969500MGFIKUGLTC9742 07/10/2024 FR0013269123 1,684 25.6253 TQEX
    RUBIS 969500MGFIKUGLTC9742 07/10/2024 FR0013269123 26,278 25.7109 XPAR
    RUBIS 969500MGFIKUGLTC9742 08/10/2024 FR0013269123 2,180 25.4284 AQEU
    RUBIS 969500MGFIKUGLTC9742 08/10/2024 FR0013269123 4,993 25.5350 CEUX
    RUBIS 969500MGFIKUGLTC9742 08/10/2024 FR0013269123 1,051 25.5351 TQEX
    RUBIS 969500MGFIKUGLTC9742 08/10/2024 FR0013269123 48,276 25.5142 XPAR
    RUBIS 969500MGFIKUGLTC9742 09/10/2024 FR0013269123 1,905 25.1645 AQEU
    RUBIS 969500MGFIKUGLTC9742 09/10/2024 FR0013269123 14,955 25.1057 CEUX
    RUBIS 969500MGFIKUGLTC9742 09/10/2024 FR0013269123 1,127 25.1368 TQEX
    RUBIS 969500MGFIKUGLTC9742 09/10/2024 FR0013269123 39,013 25.1636 XPAR
    RUBIS 969500MGFIKUGLTC9742 10/10/2024 FR0013269123 2,199 25.1777 AQEU
    RUBIS 969500MGFIKUGLTC9742 10/10/2024 FR0013269123 11,084 25.1848 CEUX
    RUBIS 969500MGFIKUGLTC9742 10/10/2024 FR0013269123 1,556 25.1570 TQEX
    RUBIS 969500MGFIKUGLTC9742 10/10/2024 FR0013269123 33,681 25.1718 XPAR
    RUBIS 969500MGFIKUGLTC9742 11/10/2024 FR0013269123 18,467 25.2196 CEUX
    RUBIS 969500MGFIKUGLTC9742 11/10/2024 FR0013269123 237 25.2755 TQEX
    RUBIS 969500MGFIKUGLTC9742 11/10/2024 FR0013269123 25,931 25.2114 XPAR
    * Four-digit rounding after the decimal TOTAL 245,655 25.3396  

    Detailed presentation per transaction

    Detailed information on the transactions carried out from 7 to 11 October 2024 is available on the Company’s website (http://www.rubis.fr) in the section “Investors – Regulated information – Share buyback programme”.

      Contact
      RUBIS – Legal Department
      Tel. : + 33 (0)1 44 17 95 95

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Record-breaking International Investment Summit secures £63 billion and nearly 38,000 jobs for the UK

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Nearly 38,000 UK jobs are set to be created across the UK after a total of £63 billion of investment was announced around today’s International Investment Summit.

    • Total of £63 billion of private investment committed around International Investment Summit, more than doubling amount secured at 2023 Global Investment Summit
    • New investments today include £6.3 billion in UK data centres as well as world class UK university Imperial College London
    • Innovative investment projects announced over the last month across infrastructure, renewables and life sciences will create close to 38,000 new jobs across the UK

    Nearly 38,000 UK jobs are set to be created across the UK after a total of £63 billion of investment was announced around today’s International Investment Summit, turbocharging growth and innovation across the country. 

    The record-breaking total figure more than doubles the £29.5 billion committed at last year’s Global Investment Summit and spans partnerships across the infrastructure and tech sectors, including over a billion pounds in new investments announced today by DP World, Associated British Ports (ABP) and Imperial College London. 

    Through serious, stable governance, the UK is attracting tens of billions of pounds of new investment which is crucial to the government’s driving mission of delivering economic growth. Today’s historic figure demonstrates that businesses have confidence in Britain as a place to invest. 

    The investments follow immediate action taken by the new government to reform planning, focus on AI and data centre expansion, and set a clear commitment to net zero by almost doubling the funding for renewable energy projects. 

    Four major tech firms based in the US have today announced £6.3 billion in UK data centres which is critical to enhancing the UK’s AI capacity – in turn fuelling Britain’s economic growth and spurring on AI development. Data centres store the vast amount of information and data needed to power AI, and store the information generated by AI to keep the systems running. 

    ABP, the UK’s largest port operator, has committed over £200 million to a joint investment with ferry company Stena Line in a new freight ferry terminal at the Port of Immingham, significantly boosting the capacity and resilience of UK trade with Europe. It is expected to create around 700 jobs during construction and around 200 permanent jobs once operational. 

    Leading UK university Imperial College London is also today announcing a £150 million investment to secure a new R&D campus to add to its rapidly expanding deep tech ecosystem in West London. The new campus will expand scale-up capacity in the WestTech Corridor, supporting the UK’s innovation sector and driving investment, economic growth and job creation. 

    Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said:

    Global investors should be in no doubt that under this new government Britain is truly the best place to do business. The record-breaking investment total secured at today’s Summit marks a major vote of confidence in the UK and our stability dividend across industry and innovation.

    We’re determined to deliver economic growth in every part of the UK and these investments, together with our forthcoming Industrial Strategy, will give global businesses the certainty they need as we lead the charge for the innovation and jobs of the future.

    Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves said:

    After the investments secured as part of this summit, my optimism for Britain burns brighter than ever. It’s a sign of the confidence in the British economy. And it matters because it will support the growth of businesses big and small across the U.K. Helping them create new jobs and making people better off.

    CEO of ABP Henrik L. Pedersen said:

    We are delighted that the Development Consent Order (DCO) for the Immingham Eastern Ro-Ro Terminal (IERRT) has been granted in a timely way by the Secretary of State to allow us to move forward with investment. The IERRT project is a key component of our strategy to strengthen the UK’s supply chains and improve trade connectivity, whilst also bringing substantial economic benefits including the creation of hundreds of jobs during construction and ongoing operations. IERRT forms part of the intended £5.5bn pipeline of UK investment we have in front of us over the next 10 years and we look forward to working closely with the Government to deliver the right conditions to realise this investment.

    President of Imperial College London Hugh Brady said:

    Imperial College London is investing in its ambitious vision for a new globally competitive deep tech innovation ecosystem in West London. The Imperial WestTech Corridor will act as a powerful engine for investment, inclusive economic growth, and job creation at a local, regional, and national level supported by the Government’s emerging Industrial Strategy.

    Please see below for a list of all the investments announced in the run-up to and during today’s International Investment Summit:

    • Iberdrola doubling their investment in the UK, through Scottish Power, from £12 billion to £24 billion over the next 4 years. This includes £4 billion for the East Anglia 2 wind farm off the Suffolk coast which was unlocked by this Government’s expanded allocation at the most recent wind auction round. Iberdrola Executive Chairman Ignacio Galan CBE confirmed on Friday that the UK has become their largest Investment destination. 

    • Blackstone confirmed a £10 billion investment in Blyth, Northumberland to create one of the largest artificial data centres in Europe, creating 4,000 jobs, including 1,200 roles dedicated to the construction of the site. 

    • Amazon Web Services announced an £8 billion investment last month which is estimated to support around 14,000 jobs per year at local businesses, including those across the company’s data centre supply chain such as construction, facility, maintenance, engineering and telecommunications. 

    • CCUS investors (including Eni, BP and Equinor) reached a commercial agreement with the government that will unlock £8 billion of private investment to launch carbon capture clusters in the heartlands of the North West and North East of England, directly creating 4,000 jobs and supporting 50,000 jobs in the long-term. 

    • Orsted and Greenvolt confirming that the Government’s recent expanded offshore wind auction means their projects will unlock £8 billion (Orsted) and £2.5 billion (Greenvolt) of investment respectively in their planned offshore wind farms. Orsted says its commitment will see thousands of jobs for local people, while Greenvolt says it will create up to 2800 construction jobs.  

    • CyrusOne, a leading global data centre developer headquartered in the United States, announced plans to expand their investment into the UK to £2.5 billion over the coming years. Subject to planning permission, the two data centres should be operational by Q4 2028, projected to create over 1,000 jobs both directly and within its immediate design and construction value chain.   

    • Octopus Energy have committed to a £2 billion investment in renewable energy generation, including four new solar farms in Bristol, Essex, East Riding of Yorkshire and Wiltshire that will power up to 80,000 homes as well as breaking ground on a new 12 MW battery in Cheshire which Octopus say will store enough power for nearly 10,000 homes every day. 

    • SeAH Wind has made an additional £225 million investment into wind technology manufacturing in Teesside, thanks to new backing from UK Export Finance, and expects to create 750 direct jobs by 2027. This brings their total investment into the site at Teesworks up to £900 million and will help them make their ongoing factory build – one of the biggest facilities of its kind worldwide – even bigger. 

    • CloudHQ is developing its new state-of-the-art £1.9 billion data centre campus in Didcot. The hyper-scale data centre is currently in development and will help meet the UK’s growing demand for AI and machine learning. It will create 1,500 jobs during construction, and 100 permanent jobs once fully operational.  

    • Macquarie supporting investment of £1.3 billion into new green infrastructure including its Island Green Power solar farm in Stow, as a result of planning consents having been granted by the Government, and its Roadchef portfolio company installing electric car ultra-fast charging points across its sites along the UK motorway network. 

    • ServiceNow also confirmed its commitment to the UK market, with plans to invest £1.15 billion into its UK business over the next five years. The investment will not only support the future development of AI in the UK, expanding its data centres with Nvidia GPUs for local processing data, but also support new office space as the company significantly grows into employee base beyond its current headcount of 1,000 employees.  

    • Manchester Airports Group is investing more than £1.1 billion in London Stansted Airport to expand its existing terminal by around a third, help secure new air routes to key business and leisure destinations, boost local supply chains and create 5,000 jobs. This includes around £600 million to extend the terminal and £500 million to deliver a suite of improvements to the existing terminal building and wider airport estate. 

    • Eren Holdings confirmed a £1 billion investment in the redevelopment of Shotton Mill in Deeside, North Wales which is set to become the UK’s largest recycled paper manufacturing campus. This is expected to safeguard 147 jobs and create a further 220 when the site is fully commissioned. 

    • Network Rail and London & Continental Railways are creating a new property company which will attract additional private and public sector investment with the potential to deliver brownfield regeneration schemes across the rail estate with a value exceeding £1 billion. 

    • CoreWeave is building on its £1 billion investment announced in May and the opening of its European headquarters in London by investing a further £750 million-plus in the UK to support the demand for critical AI infrastructure. The investment in the UK is CoreWeave’s second largest investment in a country following the USA.  

    • DP World are investing up to £1 billion in their London Gateway container port operation. This new investment will fund two additional berths and a second rail terminal. Once built, the berths will add vital transport capacity and increase the resilience of UK supply chains, enabling businesses to access domestic and international markets and supporting the Government’s growth and decarbonisation missions. 

    • Holtec, a major US advanced nuclear engineering company, has confirmed a significant investment of £325 million in a new factory in South Yorkshire which will supply materials for civil and defence nuclear industries. They say this will create up to 490 direct and 280 indirect jobs annually during the construction phase and 1,200 direct engineering jobs created over 20 years. 

    • BW Group proceeding with a £500 million investment, which includes new battery energy storage projects in Hampshire and Birmingham. 

    • Eli Lilly and Company is collaborating with government through a memorandum of understanding which will see the pharmaceutical giant intending to commit £279 million to tackle significant health challenges – including obesity. Lilly also plans to launch the first ‘Lilly Gateway Labs’ innovation accelerator in Europe to support early-stage life sciences businesses to develop transformative medicines and technologies. 

    • Associated British Ports (ABP), the UK’s largest port operator, has announced a £200+ million investment in a new freight ferry terminal at the Port of Immingham, boosting the capacity and resilience of UK trade with Europe. This is expected to create around 700 jobs during construction and 200 permanent jobs once operational. 

    • Imperial College London investing £150 million to build The WestTech Corridor – a new innovation ecosystem in West London which will act as a powerful engine for investment, inclusive economic growth, and job creation at a local, regional, and national level. 

    • Haleon has received planning permission to develop a new £130 million Global Oral Health Innovation Centre in Weybridge, Surrey. This state-of-the-art facility will primarily support Haleon’s global oral health business by developing new products that advance consumers’ better everyday health. 

    Background 

    • The International Investment Summit is being sponsored by Barclays, HSBC, Lloyds, M&G plc, Octopus Energy, and TSL.

    Updates to this page

    Published 14 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: United States Mint Begins Shipping 2024 American Women Quarters™ Honoring Zitkala-Ša on October 21

    Source: United States Mint

    WASHINGTON – The United States Mint (Mint) will begin shipping the fifth coin in the 2024 American Women Quarters (AWQ) Program honoring Zitkala-Ša on October 21. The Mint facilities at Philadelphia and Denver manufacture these circulating quarters.

    Zitkala-Ša (meaning “Red Bird”), also known as Gertrude Simmons Bonnin, was a writer, composer, educator, and political activist for Native Americans’ right to United States citizenship and other civil rights they had long been denied. She left her South Dakota home on the Yankton reservation at age eight to attend a boarding school run by white missionaries, where her native culture and traditions were prohibited.

    “The fifth coin of the 2024 American Women Quarters Program celebrates the life and legacy of Zitkala-Ša,” said the Honorable Ventris C. Gibson, Director of the Mint. “Zitkala-Ša was a gifted musician and violinist and collaborated on what is considered the first known American Indian opera. Premiering in Utah in 1913, The Sun Dance Opera was centered on the Sun Dance, a sacred, ceremonial dance that was outlawed by the U.S. government at the time. Zitkala-Ša felt the opera would be a powerful way to share her values with diverse audiences. Her writings and advocacy continue to have an impact today.”

    The reverse (tails) depicts Zitkala-Ša in traditional Yankton Sioux dress. She is holding a book, which represents her work as an author as well as her successful activism for Native American rights. Behind her, a stylized sun represents her work on The Sun Dance Opera, while a cardinal symbolizes her name, which translates to “Red Bird.” A Yankton Sioux-inspired diamond pattern sits underneath the sun.

    Artist Infusion Program Designer Don Everhart designed the image, which Mint Medallic Artist Renata Gordon sculpted.

    “The design features the effigy of Zitkala-Ša wearing her tribal regalia—the beads and intricate leather straps with metal elements made for a beautiful and challenging subject,” said Gordon. “I stayed faithful to the design down to the most minute detail because much of the regalia is steeped in Native American symbolism and meaning. I loved participating in the legend that lives on, as my fellow engravers and I get to do with many of the subjects selected to be on U.S. coinage and medals.”

    Each coin in this series features a common obverse (heads) design depicting a portrait of George Washington. This design was originally composed and sculpted by Laura Gardin Fraser as a candidate entry for the 1932 quarter, which honored the bicentennial of George Washington’s birth. The inscriptions are “LIBERTY,” “IN GOD WE TRUST,” and “2024.”

    View images of the Zitkala-Ša quarter here.

    Each 2024 AWQ honoree is a powerful, inspiring example of the breadth, depth, and range of accomplishments, and the experiences demonstrated by these extraordinary women. Coins featuring additional honorees will continue to ship through 2025.

    Authorized by Public Law 116-330, the American Women Quarters Program features coins with reverse (tails) designs emblematic of the accomplishments and contributions of American women. Beginning in 2022 and continuing through 2025, the Mint is issuing five quarters in each of these years. The ethnically, racially, and geographically diverse group of individuals honored through this program reflects a wide range of accomplishments and fields, including suffrage, civil rights, abolition, government, humanities, science, space, and the arts.

    Please consult with your local financial institutions regarding the availability of AWQ Program quarters honoring Zitkala-Ša beginning in middle to late November.

    Numismatic Products
    This groundbreaking coin program is an excellent way to remind future generations what can be accomplished with vision, determination, and a desire to improve opportunities for all. Subscribe to the program today to ensure fulfillment of your favorite product through 2025.

    About the United States Mint
    Congress created the United States Mint in 1792, and the Mint became part of the Department of the Treasury in 1873. As the Nation’s sole manufacturer of legal tender coinage, the Mint is responsible for producing circulating coinage for the Nation to conduct its trade and commerce. The Mint also produces numismatic products, including proof, uncirculated, and commemorative coins; Congressional Gold Medals; silver and bronze medals; and silver and gold bullion coins. Its numismatic programs are self-sustaining and operate at no cost to taxpayers.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Meeting held on animal deaths

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    ​In view of the death of eight animals in Hong Kong Zoological & Botanical Gardens yesterday, Secretary for Culture, Sports & Tourism Kevin Yeung convened an urgent interdepartmental meeting today to hear reports on the latest situation by the Leisure & Cultural Services Department, the Agriculture, Fisheries & Conservation Department as well as the Department of Health.

    It was noted at the meeting that park staff had immediately stepped up monitoring of the conditions of all animals since yesterday. The movement response and appetite of a White-faced Saki and a De Brazza’s Monkey were found to be unusual and they were removed from the original animal cages for close monitoring. The White-faced Saki passed away this morning. The park will continue to observe the remaining De Brazza’s Monkey.

    The park’s Mammals Section was temporarily closed this morning to facilitate the close monitoring of the conditions of those animals, while the disinfection and cleaning of animal cages involved were completed.

    The health condition of all 80 animals in the park is normal. For the sake of prudence, staff working there will wear appropriate protective gear and keep a close watch on their health condition. At present, all staff are healthy.

    Additionally, different scenarios of case development and solutions were discussed at the meeting. Relevant government departments will speed up autopsy and toxicological testing, so that the possible causes of the incident could be known as soon as possible.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Have your say: Working age council tax support scheme consultation launches

    Source: City of Portsmouth

    Have your say on possible changes to Portsmouth’s Council Tax Support Scheme for working age residents from next year.

    No changes are being made to the council tax support scheme for pension-aged residents.

    A consultation running for eight weeks is now live until Monday 9 December. Complete the consultation online.

    Council Tax Support is a scheme to help some people pay their council tax. The amount of support people can get depends on their income and personal situation.

    The proposal being considered by Portsmouth City Council seeks to change the scheme to provide more financial help for those on the lowest incomes. The change would see many of the approximately 7,500 working-age people claiming council tax support in Portsmouth automatically receive an increase, without having to apply.

    Portsmouth’s Local Council Tax Support (LCTS) scheme, adopted in 2013, was and continues to be based upon a now outdated means-tested ‘benefit’ scheme. Due to central government funding cuts, everyone receiving support from the working age council tax support scheme is currently required to pay at least 20% of their council tax bill, including those on the lowest incomes.

    The consultation asks for people’s views on introducing a new banded scheme for working aged people from 1 April 2025. It would mean individuals and families would receive different levels of council tax support depending on which of the four proposed income bands they are in.

    The change would simplify the application process, increase LCTS take up, and reduce the current frequent reassessment of council tax bills to give most people greater financial stability.

    The change would see the council tax contribution from those on the lowest incomes reduce from 20% to 10%, helping to support those most in need with the cost of living. The discount would reduce for those with higher incomes.

    It’s estimated that just over 74% of working age claimants would either benefit or see no change under the new scheme.

    Leader Cllr Steve Pitt said:

    “It’s estimated that the government underfunds the council’s local council tax support scheme by over £4m per year and because of the strain on our finances, there’s no perfect option for changing our council tax support scheme where everyone benefits.

    “To do so would add additional financial burdens that the council is not in a position to meet. What we are considering is a change that would help by far the most people and crucially those on the very lowest incomes, at a time when there’s no respite from high living costs.

    “We know people may have differing views on these proposals and we want as many people as possible to share them with us by taking part in our consultation. No change will be made until we have carefully considered every opinion submitted to our survey.”

    Each year councils are required to review their council tax support schemes, and currently around 100 local authorities, nearly a third, operate banded schemes similar to the one Portsmouth is considering moving to.

    The proposal would have no impact on pension-age claimants of the scheme, which offers pensioners up to 100% towards their council tax bill.

    Cost of living support for Portsmouth residents

    Portsmouth Older Persons Energy Payment, one-off payment of either £200 or £300 launching soon for low-income pensioners who will miss out on the government’s Winter Fuel Payment. It’s open to pension-age Portsmouth households who receive either Housing Benefit or Council Tax Support but don’t receive Pension Credit. Find out more and complete a form for us to contact you when it opens: Portsmouth Older Persons Energy Payment – Portsmouth City Council

    Household Support Funding, the council is reviewing how it will allocate the latest round of Household Support Funding and will be announcing schemes and how to apply at Household support fund – Portsmouth City Council

    The Cost-of-living helpline and online information hub, for help around essential costs, health and wellbeing, jobs, money and housing, and hardship funding people can apply for. The helpline is open weekdays from 9am-5pm (closes 4.30pm Fridays) on 023 9284 1047, or visit: http://www.portsmouth.gov.uk/cost-of-living-hub

    Switched On Portsmouth, for help reducing energy bills, including referring to energy saving scheme and offering free advice. Call on 0800 260 5907 or visit http://www.switchedonportsmouth.co.uk

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Thanksgiving: Premier Smith

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    “As the leaves fall and the temperature cools this Thanksgiving weekend, families across the province will be gathering to reconnect with loved ones.

    “This weekend I will be reflecting on all the amazing things our province has to offer. Ours is a province with an abundance of natural beauty – matched only by an abundance of opportunity.

    “We embrace freedom for everyone and we will always stand up for our right to be free and our right to pursue our dreams – whatever they may be.

    “Alberta is a place where communities are safe and welcoming, where neighbours are friends and we all look out for each other.

    “From my family to yours, I hope you have a safe and restful Thanksgiving weekend.”

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: NATO Secretary General visits SHAPE and new NATO command to support security assistance to Ukraine based in Germany

    Source: NATO

    NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte met with the NATO Supreme Allied Commander Europe (SACEUR), General Christopher Cavoli and other senior officials during his first visit to the Alliance’s Supreme Headquarters (SHAPE) in the Belgian city of Mons on Monday (14 October 2024).

    In the afternoon, the Secretary General travelled with General Cavoli to Wiesbaden, Germany to visit NATO’s new Security Assistance and Training Ukraine (NSATU) command at the Clay Barracks, where the Secretary General also met with German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius.

    In talking with the troops, Mr. Rutte noted how important their work was, preparing the way for 700 personnel who will be stationed in Wiesbaden and at logistical nodes on the Eastern flank of the Alliance. He said that the new command will make a real difference for Ukraine on the battlefield and “for our own security”.

    NSATU will coordinate the provision of military training and equipment for Ukraine by NATO Allies and partners – including artillery, ammunition and air defences – and will help Ukrainian forces prepare for the future.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Samsung Ushers in a New Era by Expanding Galaxy Ecosystem, Begins Pre-reserve for Galaxy Ring in India

    Source: Samsung

     
    Samsung, India’s largest consumer electronics brand, today announced the commencement of pre-reserve for its highly anticipated Galaxy Ring in India. The Galaxy Ring, which fits comfortably on users’ fingers like a traditional ring, is equipped with cutting-edge Galaxy AI features and sensors to deliver a differentiated experience.
     
    The Galaxy Ring adorns a titanium finish for enhanced durability and comes with an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance. The Galaxy Ring is rated 10ATM as it is built to withstand water depths of up to 100 meters, performing seamlessly in all conditions.
     
    Customers can pre-reserve their Galaxy Ring by paying a token amount of INR 1999 on Samsung.com, select retail stores, Amazon.in and Flipkart.com.
     
    Customers who pre-reserve the Galaxy Ring during this period will receive a complimentary Wireless Charger Duo worth INR 4999 upon purchase.
     
    Ushering a new era in the wearable device portfolio, Galaxy Ring features technology that helps users understand their health and body mannerisms easily. Blending a sleek, timeless design with cutting-edge health tracking features, Galaxy Ring will be available in 9 different sizes, ranging from size 5 to size 13.
     
    Offering a compact, sophisticated solution for users seeking seamless connectivity and wellness monitoring, Samsung India will provide its customers the option to get a sizing kit to ensure best fit before purchasing Galaxy Ring.
     
    Weighing just 2.3 grams (for size 5) with a narrow 7.0 mm width, Galaxy Ring is ultra-lightweight and compact, designed for providing comfort, during both day and night wear. It offers up to 7 days of battery life, providing users with a long-lasting endurance best suited for busy lifestyles.
     
    Powered by Samsung’s innovative “Health AI,” Galaxy Ring will deliver personalized health experiences that track users’ energy levels, sleep stages, activity, heart rate, and stress levels. It allows users to set and forget, simplifying health tracking while providing personalized coaching and insights.
     
    Galaxy Ring also integrates effortlessly with other devices in the Galaxy ecosystem, enhancing the connected experience for users. Galaxy Ring further offers features like 24/7 health tracking in synergy with Galaxy smartwatches, gesture controls, and Smart Find for added convenience.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Ottawa — RCMP statement on violent criminal activity occurring in Canada with connections to agents of the Government of India

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    An extraordinary situation is compelling us to speak about what we have discovered in our multiple ongoing investigations into the involvement of agents of the Government of India in serious criminal activity in Canada. It is not our normal process to publicly disclose information about ongoing investigations, in an effort to preserve their integrity. However, we feel it is necessary to do so at this time due to the significant threat to public safety in our country.

    Over the past few years, and more recently, law enforcement agencies in Canada, including the RCMP, have successfully investigated and charged a significant number of individuals for their direct involvement in homicides, extortions and other criminal acts of violence.

    In addition, there has been well over a dozen credible and imminent threats to life which have led to the conduct of Duty to Warn by law enforcement with members of the South Asian community, and specifically members of the pro-Khalistan movement. As a result, in February 2024, the RCMP created a multidisciplinary team to investigate and coordinate efforts to combat this threat. The team has learned a significant amount of information about the breadth and depth of criminal activity orchestrated by agents of the Government of India, and consequential threats to the safety and security of Canadians and individuals living in Canada.

    Despite law enforcement action, the harm has continued, posing a serious threat to our public safety. We reached a point where we felt it was imperative to confront the Government of India and inform the public about some very serious findings that have been uncovered through our investigations.

    There is a violent extremism threat in Canada that Canada and India have been working on over the years. However, these threats are impacting Canada and India’s ability to collaborate.

    Earlier this week, the Deputy Commissioner of Federal Policing, Mark Flynn, made attempts to meet with his Indian law enforcement counterparts to discuss violent extremism occurring in Canada and India, and present evidence pertaining to agents of the Government of India’s involvement in serious criminal activity in Canada. These attempts were unsuccessful, therefore Deputy Commissioner Flynn met with officials of the Government of India, along with the National Security and Intelligence Advisor (NSIA), Nathalie Drouin, and Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs David Morrison over the weekend.

    Through our national taskforce and other investigative efforts, the RCMP has obtained evidence that demonstrates four very serious issues:

    1. Violent extremism impacting both countries;
    2. Links tying agents of the Government of India (GOI) to homicides and violent acts;
    3. The use of organized crime to create a perception of an unsafe environment targeting the South Asian Community in Canada; and
    4. Interference into democratic processes.

    Investigations have revealed that Indian diplomats and consular officials based in Canada leveraged their official positions to engage in clandestine activities, such as collecting information for the Government of India, either directly or through their proxies; and other individuals who acted voluntarily or through coercion.

    Evidence also shows that a wide variety of entities in Canada and abroad have been used by agents of the Government of India to collect information. Some of these individuals and businesses were coerced and threatened into working for the Government of India. The information collected for the Government of India is then used to target members of the South Asian community.

    This evidence was presented directly to Government of India officials, urging their cooperation in stemming the violence and requesting our law enforcement agencies work together to address these issues.

    The RCMP is hoping to address these threats through our relationship with the Government of India and the National Investigation Agency with the end goal of strengthening the safety and security of the Canadian public and South Asian community.

    The safety and security of our citizens, regardless of their background or beliefs, remains a top priority for the RCMP and we will not tolerate any form of intimidation, harassment, or harmful targeting of communities or individuals in Canada.

    We are seeking the public’s assistance in reporting incidents of foreign interference by the Government of India. Anyone who feels threatened online or in person, should report the incident to their local police. If someone is in immediate danger, call 9-1-1. Individuals can also report to the RCMP National Security Information Network by phone at 1-800-420-5805 or online at rcmp.ca/report-it.

    We recognize the concern and fear people might be feeling when seeing this news and we recognize that South Asians are victims of the activities we’re investigating. We want to assure all Canadians that their safety and security is at the forefront of everything we do and we urge the public and South Asian communities to remain calm and give law enforcement and Canadian officials time to continue discussions.

    While the RCMP does not generally comment on investigative matters to preserve operational integrity, we will keep the public updated as things develop.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Secretary of State for Northern Ireland attends International Investment Summit

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    The Secretary of State for Northern Ireland Hilary Benn MP today met with a number of leading businesses at the International Investment Summit in the Guildhall in London, together with the First Minister Michelle O’Neill, deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly and Kieran Donoghue of Invest NI.  

    Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly, Secretary of State for Northern Ireland Hilary Benn MP, First Minister Michelle O’Neill and Invest NI CEO Kieran Donoghue.

    Speaking ahead of the Chancellor’s speech, Mr Benn said: 

    Today’s International Investment Summit has been a great opportunity for the First Minister, deputy First Minister and I to promote Northern Ireland as an exciting and dynamic place for foreign direct investment.

    This government and the Northern Ireland Executive know that to grow Northern Ireland’s economy, we need more high quality, long-term investment, and today’s event has brought together the world’s leading companies and investors to help support that.

    Stability is the foundation for growth, and that is exactly why this government is working closely and collaboratively with the Executive to unlock more investment and improve the opportunities for everyone across Northern Ireland.

    Updates to this page

    Published 14 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Colinton/Fairmilehead by-election candidates announced

    Source: Scotland – City of Edinburgh

    The candidates standing in the forthcoming Colinton/Fairmilehead Council by-election have been confirmed.

    Twelve candidates have been nominated to stand in the by-election, which is due to take place on 14 November.

    The candidates standing for election are –

    • Bonnie Prince Bob, Independent
    • Mev Brown, Independent
    • Mairianna Clyde, Scottish National Party (SNP)
    • Neil Cuthbert, Scottish Conservative and Unionist
    • Sheila Gilmore, Scottish Labour Party
    • David Ian Henry, Independent
    • Tam Laird, Scottish Libertarian Party
    • Grant Lidster, Reform UK
    • Richard Crewe Lucas, Scottish Family Party
    • Daniel Aleksanteri Milligan, Scottish Greens
    • Louise Spence, Scottish Liberal Democrats
    • Marc Wilkinson, Independent

    Returning Officer for Edinburgh Paul Lawrence, said:

    With nominations now closed and a month remaining, residents of the Colinton/Fairmilehead ward can start considering who they will vote for in the upcoming by-election. It’s important to make sure you’re registered to vote by 29 October in order to participate.

    Councillors play a vital role in our democratic system, making key decisions that impact our city. I encourage as many residents as possible to take part in this by-election.

    The election will use the Single Transferable Vote (STV) system, where voters rank candidates in order of preference by assigning numbers rather than just marking a single cross. You can choose to vote for as many or as few candidates as you wish.

    Poll cards will be delivered to registered voters in the area from tomorrow (Tuesday 15 October) including further information on when and where to vote.

    If you live in the Colinton/Fairmilehead ward you must register to vote by 29 October and anyone wishing to vote by post can sign up for a new postal vote up until 30 October. 

    You can also apply for someone to vote on your behalf via proxy voting, with the deadline for new proxy vote applications on 6 November (for registered voters). 

    Polling stations will be open from 7am to 10pm and will be at:

    • Charwood
    • Fairmilehead Parish Church Hall
    • St. Cuthbert’s Episcopal Church Hall
    • Oxgangs Neighbourhood Centre
    • Pentland Community Centre

    The electronic election count will take place on Friday 15 November starting at 9:30am. 

    The by-election follows the resignation of Councillor and former Transport and Environment Convener Scott Arthur, following his election as the MP for Edinburgh South West on 4 July 2024.

    Find out more about the Colinton/Fairmilehead by-election on the Council website.

    Published: October 14th 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: BLOG: A Transformative moment for our filmmakers

    Source: City of Liverpool

    Head of Liverpool Film Office, Lynn Saunders, reacts to the news that the UK’s indie film sector finally has something to celebrate, following the announcement of the eagerly anticipated Independent Film Tax Credit.

    The Independent Film Tax Credit (IFTC) has finally been confirmed by the Chancellor Rachel Reeves and the Culture secretary Lisa Nandy.

    The Tax Credit will encourage more production in the UK, as filmmakers will soon be able to claim back 53% of qualifying expenditure on items such as equipment, location costs and actor fees.  Feature films costing up to £15m will be eligible for the tax relief, but must have a UK writer, or director, to certify as an official UK co-production.

    Whilst it will provide a major boost to the UK creative economy and create jobs, more importantly it provides a lifeline to indie film producers and filmmakers who have increasingly struggled to finance films and get them into production in the UK. 

    UK indie production has been in crisis for some time: soaring costs, cuts in funding and market disruption have threatened its very survival.  Ask any Liverpool based producer and filmmaker and they will tell you exactly that.

    But why is it so important to safeguard the indie film sector? Independent films are driven by artistic vision and are more likely to tell stories about human experience.  Their stories dig deep down inside of us and make you feel emotions that big-budget blockbusters just scratch the surface of.

    They teach us, as well as entertain us. They make you take a second look at what’s going on in the world.  They also attract all types of people to get involved in film making. It doesn’t matter what social class, race or gender you are. The indies nurture new writers, directors and producers to develop their craft so they can tell stories that we want to see and hear.   

    Together with my brilliant team at the Liverpool Film Office, we’ve been working tirelessly over the years to develop a world class production hub in our City and across the Liverpool City Region, with strategic capital initiatives such as the LCR Production Fund, The Depot and the rapidly developing Littlewoods Studio Campus, to drive economic growth and employment.  More recently this has included BFI grant funding to develop skills and opportunities for new entrants.

    However, the development of the film and TV sector in our region must be hand in glove with our indigenous filmmaking community with support available to a new generation of writers, directors and producers to tell their unique stories.  With ever decreasing public finances, particularly the vacuum left to support indie filmmakers following the demise of the UK Film Council and the Regional Screen Agencies over a decade ago, this has been very difficult to do. 

    I sincerely hope that the new IFTC will spark a flurry of emails and meetings with local producers who have been lobbying for this important tax credit to be passed.  Yup, I can hear my phone ringing now…

    Learn more about Liverpool Film Office by heading to the official website.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Frieze 2024: it’s an industry art fair you’re not supposed to like – but here’s why you might

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Martin Lang, Senior Lecturer and Programme Leader in Fine Art , University of Lincoln

    The average art lover isn’t supposed to like art fairs because they’re so corporate. When you pay £9 for a sandwich and your wifi is sponsored by a big bank, you can understand the reservations. They’re also too big and crowded. Even the VIPs are left queuing to get in.

    But the fair provides opportunities to see work from galleries from all over the world in London and there is plenty of good art on display. As Frieze describes itself “[it] is one of the world’s most influential contemporary art fairs, focusing only on contemporary art and living artists”. It is primarily for those in the art world, those who create, critique and those who collect, and a lot of money changes hands as the world’s galleries show the best they have. But it has also become a cultural day out.

    Apart from loads of great painting and the occasional noncommercial showpiece, Frieze goes out of its way to balance the corporate with more thoughtful displays. There’s a chance to see big-name artists, international galleries and work by new artists. The “Artist-to-Artist” section returned this year, containing work by emerging talents (selected by established artists). With so much on show, Frieze can be daunting. You can easily spend a whole day at the fair, but with so much on display there is truly something for everybody.

    At this year’s Frieze, international highlights included Proyectos Ultravioleta from Guatemala city, who showed miniature paintings by Rosa Elena Curruchich hung alongside larger works emblazoned with the text “me venden” (they’re selling me) by Edgar Calels. Calels also brought the smell of a forest into the booth by covering the floor with pine needles.

    Jhaveri Contemporary (Mumbai, India) presented work by the Bangladeshi duo Kamruzzaman Shadhin and Gidree Bawlee. The piece Kaal (Pala) consists of seven delightful jute figures – among the most enchanting figurative sculptures I have seen recently. Joydeb Roaja’s pen drawings of people, tanks, and people with tanks on their heads are as enigmatic and disturbing as they are engaging.

    Non-commercial art appeared in Jenkins Van Zyl’s Sweat Exchange at Edel Assanti (London). This video installation housed in what Van Zyl has called a sauna-cum-“sweat extraction brewery”, which features two doppelgangers, who alternate between self-care and abuse. Imagine the Pink Panther crossed with Jar Jar Binks as a drag queen and you’re nearly there.

    Then there was Patrick Goddard’s silver cast bees on the floor of Seventeen Gallery, and Lawrence Lek (winner of the Frieze artist award) who has produced Guanyin: Confessions of a Former Carebot – an interactive videogame installation about an AI created to service self-driving cars.

    Most of the works were are those hung on walls. Gallery booths have a small storage area in which they are able to keep paintings and prints, (but less able to store sculptural works). Collectors also favour paintings, prints and photographs to adorn their walls (or similarly put into storage) over artists’ films or video installations.

    What’s to complain about though when there is so much good painting on display?

    Highlights included Tom Anholt and Ryan Mosley at Josh Lilley Gallery (London); Carl Freedman Gallery (Margate), which showed great paintings by Ben Senior, Laura Footes and Vanessa Raw (as well as Lindsey Mendick’s ceramic sculptures) and Tanya Leighton Gallery (Berlin and LA), which had plenty of good painting on show, including works by Matthew Krishanu. Ingleby (Edinburgh) showed Andrew Cranston and Hayley Barker and Arcadia Missa (London) showed Lewis Hammond’s Schmetterling, an eerie blue interior with an unsettling blue-eyed figure, and Jesse Darling, whose Come on England (up the) takes a novel approach to wall-based work by leaning crowd-control barriers in the corner of the gallery booth.

    Counter Editions (Margate) presented a Tracey Emin solo show. You’re not supposed to like Emin, since she outed herself as a Tory sympathiser. Opposite is a Billy Childish solo show at Lehmann Maupin (London, Seoul, New York), where the artist paints live while wearing a beret next to a dirty stepladder for reaching the tops of the large canvases. You’re not supposed to like Billy Childish either because he is a Stuckist (stuck in the age of Van Gogh and Edvard Munch – his only two art heroes). Funnily enough, Charles Thomson, co-founder of Stuckism, derived the name from an insult by Emin, who told Childish, her ex-lover, that his art was “stuck, stuck, stuck”. Don’t tell anybody, but the Emin and Childish works were quite good.

    With an annual curated section, more solo shows and over 270 Galleries from more than 40 countries, if you love art in all its forms (and can afford it) you should experience Frieze London at least once. If you didn’t go this year, you really should spend a day there next. Despite what people say… you’re bound to find something you like.


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

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

    – ref. Frieze 2024: it’s an industry art fair you’re not supposed to like – but here’s why you might – https://theconversation.com/frieze-2024-its-an-industry-art-fair-youre-not-supposed-to-like-but-heres-why-you-might-241293

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Universities – Seeking new green energy solutions from the sea – in wave power, biofuel and beyond

    Source: Flinders University

     

    Green fields are opening around the world as researchers make inroads into improving efficiencies in more sustainable vehicles via a novel biofuel and power generation from the sea.

     

    For example, Flinders University scientists have recently published results from three different studies – targeting potential methods and future technologies to capture ocean wave power efficiently, produce marine microalgae biofuel, as well as to improve catalytic conversion in engines.

     

    Nanotechnology experts at Flinders University, including Professor Youhong Tang and PhD Steven Wang, with Chinese colleagues have developed a novel wave sensing device which is self-powered by harvesting energy from ocean waves.

     

    The latest results, published in Device (Tuesday 15 October), prototypes a hybrid self-powered wave sensor (HSP-WS), consisting of an electromagnetic generator and a triboelectric nanogenerator.

     

    “The test results show that HSP-WS has the sufficient sensitivity to detect even 0.5 cm amplitude changing of ocean wave,” says PhD candidate Yunzhong (Steven) Wang, from Professor Tang’ research group, who is based at Flinders University’s Tonsley future energy hub.

     

    Professor Tang says that “The data obtained from HSP-WS can be used to fill up the current gap in the wave spectrum which can improve ocean wave energy harvesting efficiency.”

    Ocean wave amplitude is a key parameter in the wave spectrum. The current wave spectrum does not support detailed wave data for wave amplitudes below 0.5 m. Common radar-based ocean data sensors struggle to monitor low-amplitude waves because the measured wave amplitude is often concealed by environmental noise. 

     

    The researchers add that low-amplitude-wave energy harvesters lack proper guidance for optimal placement, which significantly affects their energy-harvesting efficiency.

     

    Meanwhile, nanoscale material scientist, Matthew Flinders Professor Tang, has joined forces with aquaculture expert Professor Jianguang (Jian) Qin and other Flinders University researchers to experiment with a new method to boost production of fast-growing, sustainable microalgae for biofuel or other feedstock.

     

    “Mass production of microalgae is a research focus owing to their promising aspects for sustainable food, biofunctional compounds, nutraceuticals, and biofuel feedstock,” says Professor Tang. 

     

    “For the first time, this study was able to enhance algal growth and lipid accumulation simultaneously, producing essential biomolecules for the third and fourth-generation feedstock for biofuel.”

     

    The novel approach creates an effective light spectral shift for photosynthetic augmentation in a green microalga, Chlamydomonas reinhardtii, by using an aggregation-induced emission (AIE) photosensitiser.

     

    Professor of Aquaculture Jian Qin says industry-scale microalgae culture for lipid and biomass production is still a challenge.

     

    “However, microalgae-derived polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) remain a promising alternative to stock-limited fossil fuels for the recent price hike and future demand and for minimising carbon emissions with 10 to 50 times higher efficiency than terrestrial plants. PUFA also have health-promoting functions for biomedical and pharmaceutical applications,” he says.

     

    Another research group at Flinders University’s College of Science and Engineering has published a paper about a promising new nanotechnology technique for more efficient use of fuels.

     

    “The need for sustainable energy solutions is steering research towards green fuels,” says Associate Professor in Chemistry Melanie MacGregor, from Flinders University. “One promising approach involves electrocatalytic gas conversion, which requires efficient catalyst surfaces.”

     

    “In this study, we developed and tested a plasma-deposited hydrophobic octadiene (OD) coating for potential to increase the yield of electrocatalytic reactions,” she says.

     

    “Our findings indicate that these nano-films, combined with micro-texturing, could improve the availability of reactant gases at the catalyst surface while limiting water access.

     

    “This approach holds promise to inform future development of catalyst materials for the electrocatalytic conversion of nitrogen and carbon dioxide into green fuels.”

     

    References: 

     

    The article ‘Plasma Coating for Hydrophobisation of Micro- and Nanotextured Electrocatalyst Materials’ (2024) by Georgia Esselbach, Ka Wai Hui (UniSA), Iliana Delcheva, Zhongfan Jia and Melanie MacGregor has been published in the online journal Plasma. DOI: 10.3390/plasma7030039 9.

     

    This research received funding from the Australian Research Council (FT200100301), Universities and State Government with support from Microscopy Australia at the Future Industries Institute, University of South Australia, and the SA node of the Australian National Fabrication Facility under the National Collaborative Research Infrastructure Strategy.

     

    Also see ‘Aggregation-induced emission photosensitiser boosting algal growth and lipid accumulation’ (2024) by Sharmin Rakhi, AHM Mohsinul Reza, Brynley Davies, Jianzhong Wang (Jilin Agricultural University), Youhong Tang and Jianguang Qin has been published in Nano-Micro Small journal (Wiley). The authors acknowledge support from colleagues at the South China University of Technology and La Trobe University. This research did not receive any external funding.

     

    The first article, ‘A hybrid self-powered wave sensing device enables low-amplitude wave sensing’ (2024) by Yunzhong Wang, Huixin Zhu (Tongji University), Wenjin Xing, Damian Tohl and Youhong Tang has been published in Device (Cell) DOI: 10.1016/j.device.2024.100575 This research did not receive any external funding.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kennedy on Fox News: It’s the 4th anniversary of the biggest lie the Biden-Harris administration ever told. It’s only gotten worse.

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator John Kennedy (Louisiana)

    MADISONVILLE, La. – Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.) penned this op-ed for Fox News detailing how the Biden-Harris administration has lied to the American people in the four years since Hunter Biden’s laptop first surfaced. Kennedy argued that the Biden-Harris administration’s continued effort to censor the American people is anti-democratic and immoral. 

    Key excerpts of the op-ed are below:

    “President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris have a casual relationship with the truth. They told us that they aren’t trying to ban gas stoves, that our president’s abilities aren’t in decline, and that the border isn’t open. They called these conspiracy theories. It appears we are going to have to get some new conspiracy theories because all the old ones turned out to be true.

    “Monday marks the fourth anniversary of the biggest lie the Biden-Harris administration told: that Mr. Hunter Biden’s laptop was not real.”

    . . .

    “It’s three weeks until the election. While some seem to have learned, the Biden-Harris administration has only doubled down.”

    . . .

    “Democracy only works when we can say what we believe. You are not free if you cannot say what you think. And no one can cast an informed vote when those in power censor relevant information. The American people know that the best way to correct misinformation is with more and better information, not censorship.

    “President Biden and Vice President Harris argue that they are just trying to protect democracy. Yet they have done all they can to prevent citizens from hearing the truth about their administration. That itself is anti-democratic. And it is immoral.” 

    Read Kennedy’s full op-ed here.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Annual Jingle Bells are Rocking at Museum of the Albemarle Gingerbread Workshop

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: Annual Jingle Bells are Rocking at Museum of the Albemarle Gingerbread Workshop

    Annual Jingle Bells are Rocking at Museum of the Albemarle Gingerbread Workshop
    jejohnson6

    ELIZABETH CITY

    Join the Friends of the Museum of the Albemarle on Friday, Dec. 6 at 4 p.m. for a Gingerbread Workshop. 

    Join FOMOA in its tradition of decorating a gingerbread house. The houses will be freshly baked by a local baker. Design your house with a wide variety of candies, cookies, cereals, and more. We do the clean-up, and you go home with a marvelous gingerbread creation to enjoy through the season.

    A completed registration form and payment are required for guaranteed reservations.  Supply fee before November 18, 2024 is $25.00 (For FOMOA members $20.00).  Supply fee after November 18, 2024 is $30.00 (For FOMOA members $25.00).  Registration for this event is nonrefundable. Registration forms are available in the lobby of the Museum of the Albemarle, on the museum’s website at https://www.museumofthealbemarle.com, or on the museum’s Facebook page. 

    For more information concerning the event call 252-335-1453

    About the Museum of the Albemarle

    The Museum of the Albemarle is located at 501 S. Water Street, Elizabeth City, NC. (252) 335-1453. http://www.museumofthealbemarle.com. Find us on Facebook! Hours are Monday through Saturday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Closed Sundays and State Holidays. Serving Bertie, Camden, Chowan, Currituck, Dare, Gates, Hertford, Hyde, Northampton, Pasquotank, Perquimans, Tyrrell, and Washington Counties, the museum is the northeast regional history museum of the North Carolina Division of State History Museums within the N.C.

    Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, the state agency with the mission to enrich lives and communities and the vision to harness the state’s cultural resources to build North Carolina’s social, cultural and economic future. Information is available 24/7 at http://www.ncdcr.gov.   

    About the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources

    The N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR) manages, promotes, and enhances the things that people love about North Carolina – its diverse arts and culture, rich history, and spectacular natural areas. Through its programs, the department enhances education, stimulates economic development, improves public health, expands accessibility, and strengthens community resiliency.

    The department manages over 100 locations across the state, including 27 historic sites, seven history museums, two art museums, five science museums, four aquariums, 35 state parks, four recreation areas, dozens of state trails and natural areas, the N.C. Zoo, the State Library, the State Archives, the N.C. Arts Council, the African American Heritage Commission, the American Indian Heritage Commission, the State Historic Preservation Office, the Office of State Archaeology, the Highway Historical Markers program, the N.C. Land and Water Fund, and the Natural Heritage Program. For more information, please visit http://www.ncdcr.gov.

    Oct 11, 2024

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Getting Pumpkin Spicy at the Aquarium!

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: Getting Pumpkin Spicy at the Aquarium!

    Getting Pumpkin Spicy at the Aquarium!
    jejohnson6

    FORT FISHER

    Underwater shenanigans with pumpkins, eerie frozen treats and sunken secrets await at Spooky Seas Saturday, Oct. 19 – Friday, Nov. 1 at the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher. The ghoulish fun is included with an Aquarium admission during regular hours 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Online tickets are required to visit the Aquarium. 

    Halloween-inspired enrichment for the animals from the otters to the alligators to Maverick, the bald eagle, will be a real treat for visitors. By engaging the community in a spirited way, the Aquarium team fulfills its mission to inspire appreciation and conservation of our aquatic environments. Visitors will see the passion that the animal care team has for conservation of the many species at the Aquarium, with all staff and volunteers sharing their story. 

    SCARY SPECIES STATISTICS

    Here are some scary statistics that keep the Aquarium team focused on saving species:

    • Asian small-clawed otters are a vulnerable species in their native habitat of southeast Asia.  
    • Green sea turtles, like Shelldon, are endangered or threatened in all or a large portion of their range.
    • The eastern box turtle is a vulnerable species.
    • The corn snake is a species of special concern.
    • The sand tiger shark is critically endangered in some areas and vulnerable globally.

    GHOULS & GOBLINS SHOULD KEEP IT GREEN

    Here are ways to avoid spooking the Aquarium team:

    • Do not bring any single-use plastic cups, bottles, bags and straws.
    • Bring a reusable water bottle and take advantage of our convenient refill stations in the Aquarium.
    • Carpool to the Aquarium when you have a group visiting together, if possible.
    • Reserve your ticket in advance and use your cell phone to show us your reservation confirmation. No need to print anything!
    • Don’t smoke, use tobacco or use an E-cigarette in the Aquarium or outdoor gardens. NCAFF is a smoke-free, tobacco-free environment. E-cigarettes are also not permitted.
    • Use the smoking receptacles in the designated smoking areas outside of the garden exit gate.
    • Pat yourself on the back for being a green goblin!

    SUSTAINABILITY SUPERHEROES EVERYDAY

    The Aquarium is committed to sustainability:

    • The North Carolina Aquarium leads by example offering water refill stations, compostable cups, plates and utensils at the food deck and only aluminum bottles in our vending machines. We also only percolate and pour Bird Friendly® coffee at the Aquarium for staff and events.  
    • Take a look at the sustainability achievements and projects at the Aquarium at Green & Getting Greener.
    • Find out more about Bird Friendly® coffee at Raise a Cup for Otters.

    About the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher  

    The North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher is just south of Kure Beach, a short drive from Wilmington, on U.S. 421. The site is less than a mile from the Fort Fisher ferry terminal. Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Admission: $12.95 ages 13-61; $10.95 children ages 3-12; $11.95 seniors (62 and older) and military with valid identification; EBT card holders: $3. Free admission for children 2 and younger and N.C. Aquarium Society members and N.C. Zoo members.

    Oct 11, 2024

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Celebrate Fall at Bentonville’s Fall Festival Oct. 26

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: Celebrate Fall at Bentonville’s Fall Festival Oct. 26

    Celebrate Fall at Bentonville’s Fall Festival Oct. 26
    jejohnson6

    Take a wagon ride around the historic Harper farm at Bentonville Battlefield’s annual fall festival on Saturday, Oct. 26. The program will include historic trades demonstrations, displays from community organizations, and an “old-timey” festival atmosphere featuring wagon rides, kid’s games, food trucks, live music, and more!

    Bring the whole family for a unique view into daily life during the 1800s. Learn about 19th-century music, food preservation, woodworking, and blacksmithing, or enjoy a stroll through the historic Harper House. Learn about beekeeping with a display from the Johnston County Beekeepers Association. Historic interpreters will also demonstrate weaving, pill rolling, and open-hearth cooking. Live music also will be performed throughout the day by the Huckleberry Brothers Band and the Waterbound Dulcimers.

    Admission for the event is $5 for adults, ages 8 and under get in free. Multiple food trucks and food vendors will be onsite! The program is from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Activities are subject to change without notice. For more information about activities, check the site’s social media channels (@bentonvilleshs) or contact Colby Lipscomb at 910-594-0789.

    About Bentonville Battlefield State Historic Site
    Bentonville Battlefield State Historic Site interprets the battle and the Harper House, a farmhouse used as a field hospital where surgeons treated nearly 600 men wounded in the battle. The site is located at 5466 Harper House Road, Four Oaks, NC 27524, 3 miles north of Newton Grove on S.R. 1008, about one hour from Raleigh and about 45 minutes from Fayetteville.

    For more information, visit https://historicsites.nc.gov/all-sites/bentonville-battlefield or call (910) 594-0789.

    Bentonville Battlefield State Historic Site is part of the Division of State Historic Sites in the N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources.

    About the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources
    The N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR) manages, promotes, and enhances the things that people love about North Carolina – its diverse arts and culture, rich history, and spectacular natural areas. Through its programs, the department enhances education, stimulates economic development, improves public health, expands accessibility, and strengthens community resiliency.
    The department manages over 100 locations across the state, including 27 historic sites, seven history museums, two art museums, five science museums, four aquariums, 35 state parks, four recreation areas, dozens of state trails and natural areas, the North Carolina Zoo, the State Library, the State Archives, the N.C. Arts Council, the African American Heritage Commission, the American Indian Heritage Commission, the State Historic Preservation Office, the Office of State Archaeology, the Highway Historical Markers program, the N.C. Land and Water Fund, and the Natural Heritage Program. For more information, please visit www.dncr.nc.gov.
    Oct 11, 2024

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Mourning Etiquette, Rituals, and Jewelry in the Victorian Era Program at CSS Neuse Museum

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: Mourning Etiquette, Rituals, and Jewelry in the Victorian Era Program at CSS Neuse Museum

    Mourning Etiquette, Rituals, and Jewelry in the Victorian Era Program at CSS Neuse Museum
    jejohnson6

    Step back in time with the CSS Neuse Museum to explore the captivating customs of Victorian-era mourning with the program “Mourning Etiquette, Rituals, and Jewelry in the Victorian Era,” highlighting the extensive collection of mourning items owned by reenactor and historian Thomas Bailey.  

    This one-of-a-kind event on Oct. 12, from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. will showcase an array of relics from the 19th century, including intricately designed mourning jewelry, ornate funeral attire, and mementos made to honor the deceased. Guests will gain insights into the deep cultural meaning of grief and remembrance that shaped an era defined by elaborate mourning traditions, and how some of the mourning traditions from the past are still practiced today. In addition, volunteers can view the mourning items on display at the museum.

    Bailey is the visitor experience director at the Visitor Center in Kinston, N.C. A retired Goldsboro police officer, he started a walking ghost tour in downtown Goldsboro at the Goldsborough Bridge Battlefield. He also helped set up and participated in the Kinston Ghost Walk for several years and has been a paranormal investigator for over 20 years. In 2001, he began collecting Victorian mourning items and has been learning more about bizarre customs ever since.

    About the CSS Neuse
    The CSS Neuse is the only remaining commissioned Confederate ironclad above water. It was part of a new technology that the Confederacy used to combat the superior manpower and firepower of the Union Navy. Learn about this technological advance and warfare in eastern North Carolina at the CSS Neuse Museum. The Confederate Navy launched the CSS Neuse, attempting to gain control of the lower Neuse River and New Bern, but ultimately destroyed the vessel to keep it out of Union hands.

    The CSS Neuse Museum (100 N. Queen St., Kinston, N.C.) is open Tuesday-Saturday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission: $5/Adult: 13-64 years old, $4/Senior: 65 years old, $3/Child: 6-12 years old, and ages 5 and under are free. As a Blue Star Museum program member, all active-duty military personnel with ID and their families of up to five members get free admission.

    Please contact Rachel Kennedy at rachel.kennedy@dncr.nc.gov or by phone at (252) 526-9600 x222 for more information. The CSS Neuse Museum is a part of the Division of State Historic Sites within the N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources.

    About the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources
    The N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR) manages, promotes, and enhances the things that people love about North Carolina – its diverse arts and culture, rich history, and spectacular natural areas. Through its programs, the department enhances education, stimulates economic development, improves public health, expands accessibility, and strengthens community resiliency.
    The department manages over 100 locations across the state, including 27 historic sites, seven history museums, two art museums, five science museums, four aquariums, 35 state parks, four recreation areas, dozens of state trails and natural areas, the North Carolina Zoo, the State Library, the State Archives, the N.C. Arts Council, the African American Heritage Commission, the American Indian Heritage Commission, the State Historic Preservation Office, the Office of State Archaeology, the Highway Historical Markers program, the N.C. Land and Water Fund, and the Natural Heritage Program. For more information, please visit www.dncr.nc.gov.
    Oct 3, 2024

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: North Carolina State Historic Preservation Office Receives African American Civil Rights Grant from the National Park Service

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: North Carolina State Historic Preservation Office Receives African American Civil Rights Grant from the National Park Service

    North Carolina State Historic Preservation Office Receives African American Civil Rights Grant from the National Park Service
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    The North Carolina Historic Preservation Office has received an African American Civil Rights (AACR) Grant from the National Park Service to undertake an architectural survey of resources associated with the Civil Rights movement in northeastern North Carolina.

    The $27,500 grant will support architectural survey documentation of up to 40 previously un-surveyed historic buildings and the update of records for 24 previously documented resources. The project will conclude with recommendations for buildings to be added to the state’s Study List, a prioritized list of resources that should be considered for the National Register of Historic Places, and recommendations for adding Civil Rights as an area of historic significance to the National Register nominations of six listed historic districts.

    The project defines northeastern North Carolina as the region bounded by I-95, U.S. Highway 64, Virginia, and the Atlantic Ocean.

    This project builds on an earlier project, also funded through the African American Civil Rights Grant program, that used oral histories and historic research to identify buildings now proposed for the architectural survey.

    Across North Carolina between 1941 and 1976, thousands of Civil Rights protests and actions occurred in large and small communities. In many instances, white-owned newspapers did not cover these activities or relegated them to small notes on pages. As a result, oral history is often the best and, in some cases, only way to locate the sites and resources associated with this aspect of our history.

    The northeast region was chosen because it is easily definable by highways and a state line, because its towns are relatively evenly spread across the region, and because the region includes Elizabeth City State University, a historically Black university.

    Should this project document buildings eligible for the National Register of Historic Places for an association with Civil Rights, the State Historic Preservation Office will plan a third phase to nominate some or all of the eligible resources.

    The project will begin in October 2024 and be completed by August 2026.

    The AACR grant, funded by the Historic Preservation Fund, documents, interprets, and preserves sites and stories related to the African American struggle to gain equal rights as citizens. The 2008 NPS report Civil Rights in America, A Framework for Identifying Significant Sites serves as the foundation reference document for the grant program and for grant applicants to use in determining the appropriateness of proposed projects and properties. The final report will not necessarily reflect views or policies of the U.S. Department of the Interior, nor does the mention of trade names, commercial products, or organizations constitute endorsement or recommendation by the Department of the Interior.

    For more information about the project, please contact Sarah Woodard, branch supervisor for the National Register and Survey Branch of the North Carolina State Historic Preservation Office at sarah.woodard@dncr.nc.gov or 919-814-6573.

    About the State Historic Preservation Office
    In North Carolina, the State Historic Preservation Office (HPO) is an agency of the N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources. Kevin Cherry, the department’s Deputy Secretary of Archives and History, is North Carolina’s State Historic Preservation Officer. The HPO carries out state and federal preservation programs that assist private citizens, non-profit institutions, local governments, and agencies of state and federal government in the identification, evaluation, protection, and enhancement of properties significant in North Carolina’s history and archaeology. The HPO oversees the statewide architectural survey; administers the National Register of Historic Places for North Carolina properties; conducts environmental review of state and federal actions affecting historic and archaeological properties; provides technical assistance to owners in the restoration of historic properties, including those owners seeking state and federal rehabilitation income tax credits; provides grant assistance for historic preservation projects; provides technical assistance to local preservation commissions; and provides historic preservation education https://www.hpo.nc.gov/.

    About the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources
    The N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR) manages, promotes, and enhances the things that people love about North Carolina – its diverse arts and culture, rich history, and spectacular natural areas. Through its programs, the department enhances education, stimulates economic development, improves public health, expands accessibility, and strengthens community resiliency.
    The department manages over 100 locations across the state, including 27 historic sites, seven history museums, two art museums, five science museums, four aquariums, 35 state parks, four recreation areas, dozens of state trails and natural areas, the North Carolina Zoo, the State Library, the State Archives, the N.C. Arts Council, the African American Heritage Commission, the American Indian Heritage Commission, the State Historic Preservation Office, the Office of State Archaeology, the Highway Historical Markers program, the N.C. Land and Water Fund, and the Natural Heritage Program. For more information, please visit www.dncr.nc.gov.
    Oct 10, 2024

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Lumber Company Selects Rutherford County for New Distribution Operations

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: Lumber Company Selects Rutherford County for New Distribution Operations

    Lumber Company Selects Rutherford County for New Distribution Operations
    mseets

    Today, Governor Roy Cooper announced that Cedar Direct, LLC, a lumber distributor, will create 20 new jobs in Rutherford County. The company will invest $925,000 to locate a distribution and warehousing facility in the Town of Spindale.

    “Cedar Direct is setting up operations in Rutherford County at a time when the spirit of collaboration and resiliency is on full display,” said Governor Cooper. “This decision by Cedar Direct provides new economic opportunities for a skilled and hardworking people.”

    Cedar Direct distributes cedar and specialty lumber to wholesalers and suppliers. The company supplies lumber yards, mills, supply houses, and contractors with high quality Western Red cedar and other specialty building products. This site will be a third location for the company offering boards, lumber, and timber in different sizes and edges and for various applications.

    “We are happy to announce our 3rd location in Spindale, North Carolina. A big reason we chose this location is the collaborative efforts between Cedar Direct and The Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina,” said Dale Hatfield, Manager of Cedar Direct. “The progressive business stance the State has taken, along with the growing market of cedar, is really what led us to choose North Carolina. Cedar Direct is extremely excited to be a part of Spindale and serving the community.”

    “Rutherford County has a storied history with manufacturing and industrial operations that will be a great foundation for Cedar Direct’s next phase of growth,” said N.C. Commerce Secretary Machelle Baker Sanders. “This history, combined with our convenient, East Coast location and commitment to being ‘First in Talent’ will support the company for years to come.”

    Although salaries will vary by position, the average annual wage will be $61,800, exceeding the Rutherford County average of $45,030. These new jobs could potentially create an annual payroll impact of more than $1.2 million for the region.

    A performance-based grant of $50,000 from the One North Carolina Fund will help facilitate Cedar Direct’s expansion to North Carolina. The One NC Fund provides financial assistance to local governments to help attract economic investment and create jobs. Companies receive no money upfront and must meet job creation and capital investment targets to qualify for payment. All One NC grants require matching participation from local governments and any award is contingent upon that condition being met.

    “This investment is a great signal that the Town of Spindale is open for new business,” said N.C. Senator Timothy D. Moffitt. “I appreciate all the diligent work of the state and local officials, as well as the economic developers that helped bring Cedar Direct to our community.”

    “This announcement is great news for Rutherford County,” said N.C. Representative Jake Johnson. “In light of the devastation left by the storms, it is more important now than ever to expand economic opportunities in our region and these good paying jobs will help do just that.”

    In addition to the North Carolina Department of Commerce and the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina, other key partners in this project include the North Carolina General Assembly, Commerce’s Division of Workforce Solutions, North Carolina Community College System, Isothermal Community College, Rutherford County, and the Town of Spindale.

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    Oct 14, 2024

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Kelly Announces Nearly $31.5M for 31 Bicycle, Pedestrian Projects Across Kansas – Governor of the State of Kansas

    Source: US State of Kansas

    TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly announced today that nearly $31.5 million will be awarded for 31 projects in communities across Kansas to create safer, more walkable and bike-friendly routes through the Transportation Alternatives (TA) Program.

    “This investment is more than just improving infrastructure – it’s about strengthening the safety, accessibility, and mobility of our communities,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “I’m pleased the state can offer the support needed to help advance these projects.”

    The competitive grant program, administered by the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) and provided by the Federal Highway Administration, is currently the primary source of KDOT funding for bicycle and pedestrian projects statewide, including Safe Routes to School. The program also funds transportation projects of a historical nature and scenic and environmental projects, including Main Street beautification projects.

    Since 2019, under the Kelly administration’s bipartisan Eisenhower Legacy Transportation Program, also known as IKE, KDOT has awarded more than $95 million for 122 TA projects, benefiting both urban and rural communities.

    Transportation Secretary Calvin Reed said this year’s announcement marks the largest grant funding the state has awarded since the launch of the federal program.

    “By partnering with local communities, we can enhance our state’s transportation infrastructure while improving accessibility and fostering more connected neighborhoods,” Secretary Reed said.

    The program requires a 20 percent local match of the project cost. The non-federal required share will consist of $2.79 million in local matching funds and $5.15 million in KDOT state funding.

    The TA projects selected to receive an award are:

    Community Sponsor Project Title  Federal Award District
    City of Atchison Unity Street Pedestrian Improvements – 2nd Street to 6th Street  $814,479.20 1
    City of Atchison North 5th Street Safe Routes to School  $924,389.00 1
    City of Eudora Safe Routes to School Sidewalk Improvements  $781,676.00 1
    City of Holton Highway 75 Pedestrian/Non-Motorized Vehicle/Bicycle Safety Project  $2,115,513.00 1
    City of Lawrence 2025 Safe Routes to School  $1,096,000.00 1
    City of Lawrence Massachusetts St 14th St to 23rd St Multimodal Improvements  $2,376,000.00 1
    City of Leavenworth Downtown ADA Sidewalk Ramp Improvements  $629,750.00 1
    City of Topeka Traffic Calming, Crossing Improvements, & Bike Lanes Installation on 4th, 5th & Adams streets  $1,722,931.20 1
    City of Wamego Safe Routes to School Crossing Improvements  $239,872.00 1
    Central Kansas Conservancy Sunflower Santa Fe Trail – Canton KS  $649,485.60 2
    City of Concordia Concordia Sidewalks for School Construction Project  $1,032,931.00 2
    City of Council Grove Streetscape and Pedestrian Safety Project along Main Street  $1,880,000.00 2
    City of Herington Safe Routes to School Phase II Construction Project  $1,136,075.00 2
    City of Hillsboro Orchard Drive Hike/Bike Trail  $525,100.00 2
    City of Linn Pedestrian Safety Sidewalk Project  $1,407,957.00 2
    City of McPherson McPherson Ave A Trail Phase III  $849,913.60 2
    City of Phillipsburg Sidewalks and Crosswalk Project to School  $763,124.00 3
    USD 270-Plainville Safe Routes to School Implementation Project  $853,991.00 3
    City of Altamont Pedestrian Connections to School & Food Retail  $1,528,469.00 4
    City of Burlington 6th Street Prefabricated Pedestrian Bridge  $654,256.00 4
    City of Girard Pedestrian Transportation Facilities to Connect Vital Services to Residents  $633,277.00 4
    City of Iola US-54 Multimodal Project  $4,236,812.00 4
    City of Pittsburg Meadowlark Elementary School Safe Routes to School  $286,400.00 4
    City of Augusta Pedestrian bridge over the Whitewater River on Redbud Rail Trail  $560,000.00 5
    City of Great Bend Downtown Great Bend Sidewalk Repair and Accessibility Improvements  $800,000.00 5
    City of Greensburg Greensburg Connecting Sidewalks  $342,548.00 5
    City of Hutchinson Downtown Hutchinson Pedestrian Safety and Access Improvements  $908,800.00 5
    City of Larned Safe Routes to School Phase II  $850,400.00 5
    City of Sedgwick Commercial Avenue Pedestrian Access and Streetscape Improvements  $215,384.80 5
    City of South Hutchinson South Hutchinson Pedestrian Connectivity Project  $273,600.00 5
    City of Ulysses Kepley Middle School Crossing  $400,475.00 6
      31 Projects Total  $31,489,609.40  

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Lamont Announces FEMA Disaster Recovery Center in Wilton Closing, Southbury Location Remains Open

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    (HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont today announced that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is making a schedule change to Connecticut’s two recently opened Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs) that have been providing in-person support with applying for federal disaster assistance to those impacted by the August 18, 2024, severe storm and flooding.

    Effective at the close of business on Monday, October 14, 2024, the DRC located at Our Lady of Fatima Church in Wilton is permanently closing.

    The state’s other DRC, which is located at Southbury Town Hall (501 Main Street South, Southbury), remains open and is continuing to provide individuals with in-person assistance. Its operating hours are Mondays to Fridays from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Saturdays from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., and Sundays from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

    Anyone who lives in any town in Fairfield County, Litchfield County, or New Haven County and is seeking to apply for FEMA assistance due to damage from this storm can visit the Southbury location.

    It is not required to visit a DRC to apply for FEMA assistance. To apply without visiting a DRC, visit DisasterAssistance.gov, download the FEMA mobile app, or call the FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-3362.

    The deadline to apply for assistance for damage caused by this storm is November 19, 2024.

     

    MIL OSI USA News –