NewzIntel.com

Category: KB

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Why we’re appealing the Epic Games verdict

    Source: Google

    Today, the court overseeing our ongoing U.S. legal proceedings with Epic Games ordered changes to Android and Google Play, requested by Epic. As we have already stated, these changes would put consumers’ privacy and security at risk, make it harder for developers to promote their apps, and reduce competition on devices. Ultimately, while these changes presumably satisfy Epic, they will cause a range of unintended consequences that will harm American consumers, developers and device makers.

    These Epic-requested changes stem from a decision that is completely contrary to another court’s rejection of similar claims Epic made against Apple — even though, unlike iOS, Android is an open platform that has always allowed for choice and flexibility like multiple app stores and sideloading.

    We are appealing that underlying decision and we will ask the courts to pause Epic’s requested changes, pending that appeal. Our appeal will show that:

    • Apple and Google compete directly for consumers: The decision rests on a flawed finding that Android is a market in itself. In contrast, the Apple decision, upheld on appeal, rightly found that Android and iOS compete in the same market. This is obvious to anyone who has bought a smartphone. Walk into a store that sells smartphones and you’ll see the options side-by-side — Android phones from companies like Samsung, Motorola and many others competing right next to Apple’s iPhone. People choose between these phones based on price, quality and security.
    • Google and Apple compete directly for app developers: The decision ignores what every developer in the world knows — they have to prioritize investing in developing for iPhones and Androids. Developers have finite resources and have to decide how much time and money to devote to building and updating their apps for each platform. Like any business, Google wants developers to offer their best features for Android and to release them on Android first. So we build tools, run training programs and invest in making it as easy as possible to develop for Android. Apple of course does the same — competing to convince developers to prioritize iOS.
    • Android is open and Google Play is not the only way to get apps: The decision fails to take into account that Android is an open platform and developers have always had many options in how to distribute their apps. In fact, most Android devices come preloaded with two or more app stores right out of the box. Developers have other options too, such as offering their apps directly to users from their websites. For example, Epic Games has made its popular Fortnite app available to Android users through the Samsung Galaxy Store, sideloading, and the Epic Games Store – all while Fortnite was not distributed through Google Play. These are options that developers have never been able to offer to their American users on iPhones.

    Android has helped expand choice, reduce prices and democratize access to smartphones and apps. The initial decision and today’s Epic-requested changes put that at risk and undercut Android’s ability to compete with Apple’s iOS.

    We look forward to continuing to make our case on appeal, and we will keep advocating for what is best for developers, device manufacturers and the billions of Android users around the world.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI: Dundee Corporation Completes Sale of 8,000 Shares of TauRx Pharmaceuticals Ltd. for Proceeds of US$1 Million

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, Oct. 07, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Dundee Corporation (TSX: DC.A) (the “Company” or “Dundee”) announces that further to the news release disseminated on September 26, 2024, it has now received the requisite board approval from TauRX Pharmaceuticals Ltd. (“TauRx”) for the sale of 8,000 shares to a private investor at a price of US$125 per share for proceeds to the Company of US$1,000,000. The transaction has now been completed. Dundee continues to hold 1,007,008 shares of TauRx.

    ABOUT DUNDEE CORPORATION

    Dundee Corporation is a public Canadian independent holding company, listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol “DC.A”. Through its operating subsidiaries, Dundee Corporation is an active investor focused on delivering long-term, sustainable value as a trusted partner in the mining sector with more than 30 years of experience making accretive mining investments.

    FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS:

    This press release may contain forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable securities legislation, which reflects Dundee Corporation’s current expectations regarding future events. Forward-looking information is based on a number of assumptions and is subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond Dundee Corporation’s control, which could cause actual results and events to differ materially from those that are disclosed in or implied by such forward-looking information. Such risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, the factors discussed under “Risk Factors” in the Annual Information Form of Dundee Corporation and subsequent filings made with securities commissions in Canada. Dundee Corporation does not undertake any obligation to update such forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as expressly required by applicable law.

    FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:

    Investor and Media Relations
    T: (416) 864-3584
    E: ir@dundeecorporation.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Kneat Files Final Short Form Prospectus in Connection with Bought Deal Equity Financing and Obtains Receipt of Final Prospectus

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Not for distribution to United States newswire services or for dissemination in the United States

    TORONTO, Oct. 07, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — kneat.com, inc. (TSX:KSI) (“Kneat” or the “Company”) announced today that, in connection with its previously announced “bought deal” equity financing, it has filed a final short form prospectus dated October 7, 2024 (the “Final Prospectus”) with the securities commissions or other similar regulatory authorities in each of the provinces of Canada, except Québec, and has obtained a receipt therefor.

    The Final Prospectus qualifies the distribution of 7,368,500 common shares of the Company (the “Common Shares”) at a price of $4.75 per Common Share (the “Offering Price”) and up to an additional 1,052,600 Common Shares at the Offering Price issuable upon the exercise of an underwriters’ over-allotment option, the particulars of which are described in the Final Prospectus (the “Offering”). Closing is expected to occur on or about October 10, 2024, and is subject to customary closing conditions, including applicable regulatory approvals.

    The Company intends to use the net proceeds of the Offering for strategic initiatives in the areas of product development, partnerships and go to market, to strengthen its balance sheet and to provide options in relation to debt management.

    Access to the Final Prospectus and any amendment is provided in accordance with securities legislation relating to procedures for providing access to a short form prospectus and any amendment. The Final Prospectus is accessible on SEDAR+ at http://www.sedarplus.ca. An electronic or paper copy of the Final Prospectus and any amendment may be obtained, without charge, from Cormark Securities Inc. by phone at (416) 362-7485 or email at ecm@cormark.com, by providing the contact with an e-mail address or address, as applicable. Prospective investors should read the Final Prospectus in its entirety before making an investment decision.

    The securities offered pursuant to the Offering have not and will not be registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements of such Act.

    This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy nor shall there be any sale of the securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such jurisdiction. This press release does not constitute an offer of securities for sale in the United States. The securities being offered have not been, nor will they be, registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and such securities may not be offered or sold within the United States absent registration under U.S. federal and state securities laws or an applicable exemption from such U.S. registration requirements.

    About Kneat

    Kneat Solutions provides leading companies in highly regulated industries with unparalleled efficiency in validation and compliance through its digital validation platform Kneat Gx. We lead the industry in customer satisfaction with an unblemished record for implementation, powered by our user-friendly design, expert support, and on-demand training academy. Kneat Gx is an industry-leading digital validation platform that enables highly regulated companies to manage any validation discipline from end-to-end. Kneat Gx is fully ISO 9001 and ISO 27001 certified, fully validated, and 21 CFR Part 11/Annex 11 compliant. Multiple independent customer studies show a 40% or more reduction in validation cycle times, nearly 20% faster speed to market, and 80% reduced changeover time. For more information visit http://www.kneat.com.

    Cautionary and Forward-Looking Statements

    Except for the statements of historical fact contained herein, certain information presented herein constitutes “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. Such forward-looking information includes, but is not limited to, information relating to the proposed Offering and the use of proceeds. While such forward-looking statements are expressed by Kneat, as stated in this release, in good faith and believed by Kneat to have a reasonable basis, they are subject to important risks and uncertainties. As a result of these risks and uncertainties, the events predicted in these forward-looking statements may differ materially from actual results or events. These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, given that they involve risks and uncertainties. Kneat does not undertake any obligation to release publicly revisions to any forward-looking statement, except as may be required under applicable securities laws. Investors should not assume that any lack of update to a previously issued forward-looking statement constitutes a reaffirmation of that statement. Continued reliance on forward-looking statements is at an investors’ own risk.

    Neither the Toronto Stock Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the Toronto Stock Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

    For further information:

    Katie Keita, Kneat Investor Relations
    P: + 1 902-450-2660
    E: katie.keita@kneat.com

    CO: kneat.com, inc.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Waldencast plc Announces Board Appointments and Annual General Meeting

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, Oct. 07, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Waldencast plc (NASDAQ: WALD) (“Waldencast” or the “Company”), a global multi-brand beauty and wellness platform, announced today that Hind Sebti, Kelly Brookie and Roberto Thompson have been appointed to its board of Directors (the “Board”), effective September 26, 2024. These executives bring extensive professional experience further enhancing the breadth of talent and expertise possessed by the Board. Ms. Brookie will replace Sarah Brown who has informed the Board of her intention to not renew her mandate ahead of the Company’s Annual General Meeting. The Company also announced that its Annual General Meeting is scheduled for October 28, 2024 during which the Company’s shareholders will be asked to vote on the renewal of Class I and Class II directors. Following this announcement, the Board will include 11 members, each of whom possesses significant expertise, particularly in the beauty, financial and consumer products sectors.

    Hind Sebti is the co-founder and Chief Growth Officer of Waldencast. Ms. Sebti has more than 20 years of experience leading and managing beauty brands across multiple categories and stages during her tenures at L’Oréal and Procter & Gamble. Ms. Sebti co-founded Waldencast Ventures alongside Mr. Brousset in 2019. Ms. Sebti brings in-depth knowledge and understanding of the beauty industry as well as consumer insights to identify and invest in the next-generation beauty brands. Importantly, Ms. Sebti plays a key role in helping portfolio brands scale, leveraging her extensive multi-category and brand management experience. Previously, Ms. Sebti also served as Chief Executive Officer of Waldencast Brands, a subsidiary of Waldencast Ventures, to incubate and commercialize new brands, where she led the brand creation process, with a focus on creative and operational optimization, through all stages from conception and product development to go-to-market strategy.

    Kelly Brookie retired from Deloitte in 2020 with over 25 years of experience in financial accounting and reporting, internal controls and governance matters. As an Audit Partner, Ms. Brookie worked with companies on accounting and auditing matters, transactions, transformation and strategic risks. At Deloitte, Ms. Brookie served consumer products, manufacturing, distribution, and retail companies. Throughout her career, she has performed audit services for public and private companies as well as gained experience with audit committees in performing the required communications and procedures. She is active in supporting multiple non-profit organizations, including serving on Boards and committees. Ms. Brookie is a Certified Public Accountant and a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants. She received her Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science from the University of Washington and a Master of Accounting from University of Southern California. Ms. Brookie will be serving as a member of the Audit and Governance Committee.

    Roberto Thompson Motta received a BS in Mechanical Engineering from Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio de Janeiro and an MBA from The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. Mr. Thompson was a co-founder and board member of 3G Capital, a global investment firm headquartered in New York. Mr. Thompson is currently a strategic advisor to the Board of Directors of AB InBev and has served as board member since 2004. Mr. Thompson has also served on the Board of Directors of AmBev S.A., Restaurant Brands International, Lojas Americanas S.A., São Carlos Empreendimentos e Participações S.A. and StoneCo Ltd. He was one of the founding partners of GP Investments Ltd. and a member of its Board of Directors until 2010. Mr. Thompson is a member of The Graduate Executive Board of The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, and of The International Council of The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. He is also a Patron of the Museum of Modern Art of São Paulo. Mr. Thompson will be serving as a member of the Finance Committee.

    Felipe Dutra, Chairman of the Board stated: “We are pleased to announce that Hind, Kelly and Roberto are joining our Board of Directors. Each bring distinct and diverse skill sets that we believe will be highly valuable to us as we execute our long-term vision. These appointments reflect the Company’s commitment to maintaining a strong and diverse Board and we look forward to their collective contributions as we execute the strategy that maximizes the power, performance and growth of our brands.”

    The Company extends its sincere thanks to Ms. Brown for her dedicated service and valuable contributions during her tenure, including in her role as chair of the Company’s Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee as well as member of the Audit Committee.

    Annual General Meeting

    The Company will hold its 2024 annual meeting of shareholders (the “Annual General Meeting”) on October 28, 2024, at 5:00 p.m. BST, at Michelin House, 81 Fulham Rd., London SW3 6RD, United Kingdom. Only those persons entered on the register of members of the Company as at September 24, 2024 (the “Record Date”) shall be entitled to attend or vote at the Annual General Meeting in respect of the number of shares registered in their name at that time. As of the Record Date, the Company had 122,584,658 ordinary shares outstanding, consisting of 111,518,130 Class A ordinary shares outstanding and 11,066,528 Class B ordinary shares outstanding.

    Materials made available in connection with the Annual General Meeting are available on the Company’s website at https://ir.waldencast.com/financial-information/annual-meeting.

    About Waldencast plc

    Founded by Michel Brousset and Hind Sebti, Waldencast’s ambition is to build a global best-in-class beauty and wellness operating platform by developing, acquiring, accelerating, and scaling conscious, high-growth purpose-driven brands. Waldencast’s vision is fundamentally underpinned by its brand-led business model that ensures proximity to its customers, business agility, and market responsiveness, while maintaining each brand’s distinct DNA. The first step in realizing its vision was the business combination with Obagi Medical and Milk Makeup. As part of the Waldencast platform, its brands will benefit from the operational scale of a multi-brand platform; the expertise in managing global beauty brands at scale; a balanced portfolio to mitigate category fluctuations; asset light efficiency; and the market responsiveness and speed of entrepreneurial indie brands. For more information please visit: https://ir.waldencast.com/.

    Obagi Medical is an industry-leading, advanced skin care line rooted in research and skin biology, refined with a legacy of 35 years’ experience. First known as leaders in the treatment of hyperpigmentation with the Obagi Medical Nu-Derm® System, Obagi Medical products are designed to diminish the appearance of premature aging, photodamage, skin discoloration, acne, and sun damage. More information about Obagi Medical is available on the brand’s website at http://www.obagi.com.

    Founded in 2016, Milk Makeup quickly became a cult-favorite among the beauty community for its values of self-expression and inclusion, captured by its signature Live Your Look, its innovative formulas and clean ingredients. The brand creates vegan, cruelty-free, clean formulas from its Milk Makeup HQ in Downtown NYC. Currently, Milk Makeup offers over 300 products through its US website http://www.MilkMakeup.com, and its retail partners including Sephora in North America, Europe, the Middle East and Australia and Cult Beauty and Selfridges in the UK.

    Contacts:

    Investors
    ICR
    Allison Malkin
    waldencastir@icrinc.com

    Media
    ICR
    Brittney Fraser/Alecia Pulman
    waldencast@icrinc.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NASA Welcomes Dominican Republic as 44th Artemis Accords Signatory

    Source: NASA

    The Dominican Republic is the latest nation to sign the Artemis Accords and joins 43 other countries in a commitment to advancing principles for the safe, transparent, and responsible exploration of the Moon, Mars and beyond with NASA.
    “NASA is proud to welcome the Dominican Republic signing of the Artemis Accords as we expand the peaceful exploration of space to all nations,” said NASA Administrator Bill Nelson. “The Dominican Republic has made important strides toward a shared future in space and is now helping guide space exploration for the Artemis Generation.”
    Sonia Guzmán, ambassador of the Dominican Republic to the United States, signed the Artemis Accords on behalf of the country on Oct. 4. The country also will confirm its participation in a high-level meeting of Artemis Accords signatories taking place Monday, Oct. 14, during the International Astronautical Congress in Milan, where furthering implementation of the principles will be discussed.
    “This marks a historic step in our commitment to international collaboration in space exploration,” said Guzmán. “This is not just a scientific or technological milestone – it represents a future where the Dominican Republic contributes to the shared goals of peace, sustainability, and innovation beyond our planet. By joining the global effort to explore the Moon, Mars, and beyond, we are also expanding the opportunities particularly for our young Dominicans in science, education, and economic development.”
    In 2020, the United States and seven other nations were the first to sign the Artemis Accords, which identified an early set of principles promoting the beneficial use of space for humanity. The accords are grounded in the Outer Space Treaty and other agreements including the Registration Convention, the Rescue and Return Agreement, as well as best practices and norms of responsible behavior that NASA and its partners have supported, including the public release of scientific data. 
    The commitments of the Artemis Accords and efforts by the signatories to advance implementation of these principles support the safe and sustainable exploration of space. More countries are expected to sign in the coming weeks and months.
    For more information about NASA’s programs, visit:

    Home Page

    -end-
    Meira Bernstein / Elizabeth ShawHeadquarters, Washington202-358-1600meira.b.bernstein@nasa.gov / elizabeth.a.shaw@nasa.gov

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Three Storms Churn in an Active Atlantic

    Source: NASA

    From the stable Lagrange point 1, located one million miles above Earth, NASA’s EPIC (Earth Polychromatic Imaging Camera) imager on the DSCOVR (Deep Space Climate Observatory) satellite observed an unusually active Atlantic Basin.
    In early October, three hurricanes simultaneously spun over the North Atlantic Ocean. This image shows the three storms—Milton, Kirk, and Leslie—at about 12 p.m. Central Time (17:00 Universal Time) on October 6, 2024. It was captured as Milton was developing in the southwestern Gulf of Mexico, about an hour before it became a hurricane.
    According to Phil Klotzbach, a Colorado State University meteorologist, this is the first-known hurricane season to see three hurricanes simultaneously present in the basin after September. Klotzbach cites the National Hurricane Center’s (NHC) database, which dates back to 1851, but he also noted: “…there are likely underestimates and potentially missed hurricanes prior to the satellite era (1966-onwards).”
    Fueled by unusually warm water in the Gulf of Mexico, Hurricane Milton “explosively” intensified from a Category 1 to Category 5 storm in less than 24 hours from October 6-7. The hurricane developed with “light shear and very warm waters in its path,” according to the NHC. As of the afternoon on October 7, Milton had 175 mile (282 kilometer) per hour winds and was forecast by NHC to make landfall on the west coast of the Florida peninsula on the evening of October 9.
    In an October 6 update of tropical Atlantic activity, University of Miami hurricane researcher Brian McNoldy noted that temperatures in the Gulf of Mexico—both at and below the surface—were record warm. “High ocean heat content provides a hurricane with a constant source of fuel and makes it much harder to upwell cooler water from below which could weaken the storm,” McNoldy wrote in the update. “This will help Milton to rapidly intensify and reach a higher peak intensity.”
    To the northeast, Kirk was weakening from a Category 2 to a Category 1 hurricane around the time of this image. Kirk began developing in the eastern tropical Atlantic in late-September and reached peak intensity as a Category 4 hurricane on October 4. The major hurricane veered northeast after development and evolved into an extratropical cyclone. NHC forecasts indicate that the storm could reach the shores of western France on October 9.
    Meanwhile, Leslie churned as a Category 1 storm when this image was acquired. Leslie developed several hundred miles southwest of the Cabo Verde Islands of western Africa and became a hurricane on October 4. The storm is expected to weaken to a tropical storm by October 8, with no interaction with land.
    The hurricane season, which started June 1 and runs through November 30, has been unusually busy so far in 2024, according to Klotzbach. As of October 6, nine hurricanes have developed in the Atlantic compared to the 1991-2020 average of 5.5.
    NASA Earth Observatory image by Michala Garrison, using data from DSCOVR EPIC. Story by Emily Cassidy.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Markey Statement on One Year Since October 7 Hamas Attack on Israel

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts Ed Markey
    Boston (October 7, 2024) – Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) today released the following statement marking one year since the October 7 Hamas terrorist attack on Israel. 
    “Today marks one year since Hamas’ brutal and heinous terrorist attack on Israel. We must never forget the deadliest day for the Jewish people since the Holocaust. In the past year, we have grieved the murders of more than 1,200 innocent Israelis, including Americans, the hostages taken and kept from their loved ones, and those killed in captivity. I have met with families of hostages, mourned with them, and felt their pain deeply, including the family of Yarden Roman Gat, whom I hold in my thoughts and prayers today. It is long past time to bring the hostages home and reunite them with their families who have spent the last year in unimaginable fear and anguish. We need an immediate ceasefire to bring them home, to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza, and end the brutal war that has gripped the region for the past twelve months.
    “Every life is a universe, and every death is a universe destroyed. The death and destruction we have witnessed cannot continue to be the world we accept. I am steadfast in my commitment to the safety of the Jewish people, the security of Israel, and its right to exist. Israel has the right to defend itself from terrorists, and as we mourn, we must continue to strive toward a shared vision for a just future. Israelis and Palestinians alike have the right to safety and security. Even amidst war we must always work for peace.
    “Today, we mourn each life lost and may their memories each be a blessing.” 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NSF congratulates laureates of the 2024 Nobel Prize in physiology or medicine 

    Source: US Government research organizations

    Two scientists shared the prize for the discovery of microRNA and its role in post-transcriptional gene regulation 

    The U.S. National Science Foundation congratulates Victor Ambros and Gary Ruvkun for their Nobel Prize in physiology or medicine. Their breakthrough discovery of microRNAs, a fundamental component of how gene activity is regulated, transformed our knowledge of cell development and the kinds of genetic material contained within the cells in all types of organisms. Their groundbreaking discovery has led to advances in medicine, agriculture and other fields.

    Prior to Ambros and Ruvkun’s work, the consensus was that gene expression—the process that controls how a cell can become a specific type of cell like skin or heart even if the DNA contained within all cells is the same—is regulated by specialized proteins known as transcription factors. The discovery of microRNAs and their role in selecting the instructions needed for a specific cell type dramatically altered the understanding of the process and has led to a more in-depth understanding of how cells develop, and what occurs when that development goes awry.

    NSF has supported the research work of Ambros, including his early work to identify the first microRNA ever discovered, and that discovery resulted in one of the key publications cited by the Nobel Prize committee.

    “Today, we honor the researchers whose groundbreaking discoveries related to microRNAs have led to advancements that are saving lives and advancing the bioeconomy in ways that were not possible just a couple of decades ago,” said NSF Director Sethuraman Panchanathan. “To these newest laureates, I extend my sincere congratulations on receiving the most prestigious scientific award in the world and also my gratitude for your steadfast dedication to promoting the progress of science.”

    Select NSF Awards

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: High range drink driver arrested- Launceston

    Source: Tasmania Police

    High range drink driver arrested- Launceston

    Tuesday, 8 October 2024 – 9:11 am.

    A 45 year old man has been arrested and charged following a drink driving incident in Launceston recently.
    Police received numerous calls about the man driving a white Ford Ranger in an erratic manner through Launceston on Friday 4 October, causing several crashes in Launceston and Nunamara.
    Police arrested the man in Launceston a short time later where he returned a breath analysis reading of .202 (over four times the legal limit).
    The man was immediately disqualified from driving for 12 months, was charged with driving offences and will appear in the Launceston Magistrates Court at a later date.
    Acting Sergeant Caitlin Rawlings said one driver doing the wrong thing, was one too many.
    “Police will continue to conduct targeted high visibility traffic operations, however road users can expect to see us anywhere, anytime,” she said.
    “Being caught doing the wrong thing is one risk, but causing a crash that results in serious injury or death is a far more serious consequence. Police are committed to enforcing the road rules, to keep people as safe as possible on our roads – but we can’t do it alone.
    “If you’re out on the roads we need you to pay attention, buckle up, watch your speed, rest if you’re tired, and never drink drive.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Dunedin’s Port Chalmers highway: more material than expected, large boulders to be broken up, ongoing delays SH88

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    |

    NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) is advising drivers to expect ongoing delays this week getting to and from Port Chalmers as contractors continue to make SH88 safe for two-way traffic. To make the most of the workday, hours have been extended to start at 7 am and finish at 6 pm.

    Investigations to date after last week’s downpour have shown much more material needing to be removed than initially assessed and some huge boulders have to be broken up first, says NZTA Journey Manager Nicole Felts.

    • There will be up to 30-minute delays between 7am and 6pm for the next four days (including Tuesday) on SH88 at the Parry Street rockfall site (near Forsyth Barr Stadium). Traffic control is in place keeping the road single lane at that point so contractors can remove rocks safely.
    • Investigations are continuing at the Burkes slip site on SH88 to understand the extent of the damage to this section of highway. The road is currently under traffic lights – Stop/Go traffic management, with minor delays.
    • Other geotechnical investigations are continuing at various sites on SH88.

    “We appreciate these delays at more than one site could add up to 30 minutes to the trip between Port Chalmers and Forsyth Barr Stadium,” says Miss Felts. “Thanks to all road users for building in the time.”

    Highway conditions for Otago | NZTA Journey Planner (external link)

    Local road closures Dunedin and Portobello peninsula(external link)

    Tags

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Capital Gains Tax… Again

    Source: ACT Party

    The Haps

    Devastation in Dunedin and the loss of HMNZS Manawanui are hurting New Zealanders in different ways. They also underline what Free Press argued last week, that the Government needs to think hard about its capital assets. It holds over half a trillion in assets, but does it own the right things, do core infrastructure and defence need more commitment? Meanwhile we’ve received voluminous praise for David Seymour’s performance Q+A with Jack Tame last week.

    Capital Gains Tax… Again

    ANZ CEO Antonia Watson revived the unending debate about a capital gains tax for New Zealand. Free Press welcomes business leaders talking about public policy. We’d all benefit if they did it more. Too often we hear business leaders say things privately that we wish they’d say publicly but they’re usually too afraid of criticism.

    We just don’t agree with Watson about the capital gains tax. It always seems to be a band-aid for concerns about housing, but it won’t fix that, and what New Zealanders really need is more capital. This week, once more with feeling, Free Press goes through the usual arguments for a capital gains tax and sets out why they’re wrong.

    Perhaps the worst argument for a capital gains tax is ‘everyone else has one.’ Practically every other Government imposes a capital gains tax on its citizens, except the Swiss Federal Government. Being like Switzerland can’t be the worst thing for the New Zealand economy.

    Even if ours was the only Government not levying a capital gains tax on its citizens, the argument still doesn’t work. Governments do silly things all over the world, and we don’t need to copy every one of them.

    Others say the Government needs the money. We’d argue that it needs to spend better, and it is improving, but there is better evidence the Government doesn’t need more money, at least not from a capital gains tax.

    The New Zealand Government is the second biggest taxer in the Asia Pacific region (behind Japan) with total revenues of 33.8 per cent of GDP. Every Asia-Pacific Government has a Capital Gains Tax. It’s difficult to argue a Government raising more revenue than dozens of Governments with capital gains taxes needs a capital gains tax for lack of money.

    Then there’s the fairness argument. People who make money from capital should pay tax like people who work for their money. Sounds fair, but the reality is capital gains are already caught by income tax.

    Anyone who buys a farm, a business, or a property is really buying a stream of income in the future. That income is taxed. A company with future income worth $10 million before tax is not worth $10 million though. It is only worth the after-tax income. You’ll be lucky to get $7 million. You’ll already lose $3 million-odd, that’s the tax that whoever buys it will pay.

    Putting a tax on the price of the asset each time it’s sold is just nasty. The argument with housing is that house prices go up regardless of how much rental income they produce.

    People even claim a capital gains tax would make housing more affordable. Any realistic capital gains tax would apply to all businesses, but only to houses you don’t live in. Nobody who wants a capital gains tax wants one ‘on the family home.’ On balance it would be more of a tax on businesses than on houses, so much for shifting investment away from housing.

    Maybe it would at least stop ‘speculators’ from pushing up house prices by buying ‘more houses than they need to live in’? Unlikely when the new tax has gone on every other kind of investment, too.

    Just like L.A., London, Sydney, Hong Kong, and Vancouver have all had outrageous house prices with a capital gains tax, a capital gains tax won’t make housing affordable in Auckland. Prices are set by supply and demand, and so long as supply doesn’t keep up with demand, prices will rise.

    A capital gains tax really just makes the Government a silent partner in property investment, it doesn’t change the underlying fundamentals of the housing market. It certainly doesn’t comfort a first home buyer to know that the Government took a share of their eye-watering purchase price.

    We hope these arguments are helpful for repelling demands for a capital gains tax. They’re technical though. The real question is whether the goal is to grow the pie, or divide the pie?

    If you think New Zealand can’t get any richer, and it’s just a matter of pulling the ‘rich’ down a peg or two and dividing up the wealth, maybe it’s time to talk about a new tax. On the other hand, maybe it’s time to shelve the distraction, acknowledge our lack of a CGT is a strength, and get back to making New Zealand wealthier overall.

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    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: 10/07/2024, 10-11 (Moscow time) the values of the upper limit of the price corridor and the range of market risk assessment for the security RU000A0JV3R1 (RSHB BO15) were changed.

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Moscow Exchange – Moscow Exchange –

    07.10.2024 10:11

    In accordance with the Methodology for determining the risk parameters of the stock market and deposit market of Moscow Exchange PJSC by NCO NCC (JSC) on 10/07/2024, 10-11 (Moscow time), the values of the upper limit of the price corridor (up to 105.31) and the range of market risk assessment (up to 1107.51 rubles, equivalent to a rate of 12.5%) of the security RU000A0JV3R1 (RSHB BO15) were changed

    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://www.moex.com/n73779

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Prime Minister Justin Trudeau meets with Premier of the Northwest Territories R.J. Simpson

    Source: Government of Canada – Prime Minister

    Today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau met with the Premier of the Northwest Territories, R.J. Simpson, to discuss shared priorities.

    The Prime Minister and the Premier spoke about strengthening Arctic security and sovereignty, advancing critical infrastructure projects, and building more homes that Northerners and Canadians can afford. The two leaders discussed opportunities to further accelerate clean economic growth in the Northwest Territories, including harnessing the potential of critical minerals and clean electricity to enhance energy security and deliver economic benefits for Northern communities.

    Prime Minister Trudeau and Premier Simpson also discussed the impacts of climate change in the Northwest Territories and highlighted the responsibility of all orders of government to work together to increase resilience to climate threats.

    The leaders acknowledged the upcoming visit to Ottawa of a delegation from the Northwest Territories Council of Leaders and expressed their shared commitment to advancing reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples. The Prime Minister recognized that the Northwest Territories is one of three jurisdictions in Canada, along with British Columbia and the federal government, to have passed legislation to implement the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.

    The Prime Minister expressed his gratitude for the Premier’s leadership in establishing collaborative governance with Indigenous Peoples as a priority for his government, and for the close partnership between the federal government and the Northwest Territories.

    Prime Minister Trudeau and Premier Simpson agreed to remain in close contact and to continue working together on issues that matter to Northerners and all Canadians.

    Associated Link

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: 10/07/2024, 10-12 (Moscow time) the values of the upper limit of the price corridor and the range of market risk assessment for the security RU000A0JXXD3 (Rosnft1P6) were changed.

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Moscow Exchange – Moscow Exchange –

    10/07/2024 10:12

    In accordance with the Methodology for determining the risk parameters of the stock market and the deposit market of PJSC Moscow Exchange by NCO NCC (JSC), on 10/07/2024, 10-12 (Moscow time), the values of the upper limit of the price corridor (up to 106.78) and the range of market risk assessment (up to 1154.39 rubles, equivalent to a rate of 11.25%) of the security RU000A0JXXD3 (Rosnft1P6) were changed

    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://www.moex.com/n73781

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: 10/07/2024, 10-12 (Moscow time) the values of the upper limit of the price corridor and the range of market risk assessment for the security RU000A0JXXE1 (Rosnft1P7) were changed.

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Moscow Exchange – Moscow Exchange –

    07.10.2024 10:12

    In accordance with the Methodology for determining the risk parameters of the stock market and the deposit market of PJSC Moscow Exchange by NCO NCC (JSC), on 10/07/2024, 10-12 (Moscow time), the values of the upper limit of the price corridor (up to 106.03) and the range of market risk assessment (up to 1141.41 rubles, equivalent to a rate of 10.0%) of the security RU000A0JXXE1 (Rosnft1P7) were changed

    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://www.moex.com/n73780

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: 10/07/2024, 10-19 (Moscow time) the values of the upper limit of the price corridor and the range of market risk assessment for the RU000A0JXSS1 (Akron B1P2) security were changed.

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Moscow Exchange – Moscow Exchange –

    07.10.2024 10:19

    In accordance with the Methodology for determining the risk parameters of the stock market and the deposit market of Moscow Exchange PJSC by NCO NCC (JSC), on 10/07/2024, 10-19 (Moscow time), the values of the upper limit of the price corridor (up to 77.48) and the range of market risk assessment (up to 834.11 rubles, equivalent to a rate of 13.75%) of the security RU000A0JXSS1 (Akron B1P2) were changed.

    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://www.moex.com/n73785

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: 10/07/2024, 14-14 (Moscow time) the values of the lower limit of the price corridor and the range of market risk assessment for the security RU000A0JT6B2 (VEB.RF 19) were changed.

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Moscow Exchange – Moscow Exchange –

    07.10.2024 14:14

    In accordance with the Methodology for determining the risk parameters of the stock market and the deposit market of PJSC Moscow Exchange by NCO NCC (JSC), on 10/07/2024, 14-14 (Moscow time), the values of the lower limit of the price corridor (up to 97.82) and the range of market risk assessment (up to 949.22 rubles, equivalent to a rate of 7.5%) of the security RU000A0JT6B2 (VEB.RF 19) were changed

    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://www.moex.com/n73791

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: 10/07/2024, 12:27 (Moscow time) the values of the upper limit of the price corridor and the range of market risk assessment for the security RU000A105666 (Sber Sb40R) were changed.

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Moscow Exchange – Moscow Exchange –

    07.10.2024 12:27

    In accordance with the Methodology for determining the risk parameters of the stock market and the deposit market of PJSC Moscow Exchange by NCO NCC (JSC), on 10/07/2024, 12:27 (Moscow time), the values of the upper limit of the price corridor (up to 105.57) and the range of market risk assessment (up to 1130.84 rubles, equivalent to a rate of 9.38%) of the security RU000A105666 (Sberbank Sb40R) were changed.

    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://www.moex.com/n73787

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial News: Change for Exchange: Coin Week Starts

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Central Bank of Russia –

    The event will run from October 7 to 20 throughout the country.

    You can now exchange your accumulated change for paper money not only in banks, but also in chain stores. In addition, you can deposit change into an account at bank branches.

    The event will involve about 4,000 branches of 159 banks and more than 3,500 retail outlets. Detailed information on the conditions and addresses of participants is on the website coinweek.rf.

    During the spring campaign, which took place from May 20 to June 2, residents of the country brought more than 31 million coins to banks. In total, people returned 135 million rubles to circulation.

    Preview photo: Wolfetta / Shutterstock / Fotodom

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

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

    http://vvv.kbr.ru/press/event/?id=21060

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: Three Federal Treasury deposit auctions will take place on 10/08/2024

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Moscow Exchange – Moscow Exchange –

    Application selection parameters
    Date of the selection of applications 10/08/2024
    Unique identifier of the application selection 22024511
    Deposit currency rubles
    Type of funds funds of the single treasury account
    Maximum amount of funds placed in bank deposits, million monetary units 350,000
    Placement period, in days 2
    Date of deposit 10/08/2024
    Refund date 10/10/2024
    Interest rate for placement of funds (fixed or floating) FIXED
    Minimum fixed interest rate for placement of funds, % per annum 18.14
    Basic floating interest rate for placement of funds –
    Minimum spread, % per annum –
    Terms of conclusion of a bank deposit agreement (fixed-term, replenishable or special) Urgent
    Minimum amount of funds placed for one application, million monetary units 1,000
    Maximum number of applications from one credit institution, pcs. 5
    Application selection form (open or closed) Open
    Application selection schedule (Moscow time)
    Venue for the selection of applications PAO Moscow Exchange
    Applications accepted: from 09:30 to 09:40
    Pre-applications: from 09:30 to 09:35
    Applications in competition mode: from 09:35 to 09:40
    Formation of a consolidated register of applications: from 09:40 to 09:50
    Setting a cut-off percentage rate and/or recognizing the selection of applications as unsuccessful: from 09:40 to 10:00
    Submission of an offer to credit institutions to conclude a bank deposit agreement: from 10:00 to 11:00
    Receiving acceptance of an offer to conclude a bank deposit agreement from credit institutions: from 10:00 to 11:00
    Deposit transfer time In accordance with the requirements of paragraph 63 and paragraph 64 of the Order of the Federal Treasury dated 04/27/2023 No. 10n
    Application selection parameters
    Date of the selection of applications 10/08/2024
    Unique identifier of the application selection 22024512
    Deposit currency rubles
    Type of funds funds of the single treasury account
    Maximum amount of funds placed in bank deposits, million monetary units 20,000
    Placement period, in days 182
    Date of deposit 10/08/2024
    Refund date 04/08/2025
    Interest rate for placement of funds (fixed or floating) FLOATING
    Minimum fixed interest rate for placement of funds, % per annum –
    Basic floating interest rate for placement of funds RUONmDS
    Minimum spread, % per annum 0.00
    Terms of conclusion of a bank deposit agreement (fixed-term, replenishable or special) Urgent
    Minimum amount of funds placed for one application, million monetary units 1,000
    Maximum number of applications from one credit institution, pcs. 5
    Application selection form (open or closed) Open
    Application selection schedule (Moscow time)
    Venue for the selection of applications PAO Moscow Exchange
    Applications accepted: from 12:30 to 12:40
    Pre-applications: from 12:30 to 12:35
    Applications in competition mode: from 12:35 to 12:40
    Formation of a consolidated register of applications: from 12:40 to 12:50
    Setting a cut-off percentage rate and/or recognizing the selection of applications as unsuccessful: from 12:40 to 13:00
    Submission of an offer to credit institutions to conclude a bank deposit agreement: from 13:00 to 14:00
    Receiving acceptance of an offer to conclude a bank deposit agreement from credit institutions: from 13:00 to 14:00
    Deposit transfer time In accordance with the requirements of paragraph 63 and paragraph 64 of the Order of the Federal Treasury dated 04/27/2023 No. 10n

    RUONmDS = RUONIA – DS, where

    RUONIA – the value of the indicative weighted rate of overnight ruble loans (deposits) RUONIA, expressed in hundredths of a percent, published on the official website of the Bank of Russia on the Internet on the day preceding the day for which interest is accrued. In the absence of a publication of the RUONIA rate value on the day preceding the day for which interest is accrued, the last of the published RUONIA rate values is taken into account.

    DS – discount – a value expressed in hundredths of a percent and rounded (according to the rules of mathematical rounding) to two decimal places, calculated by multiplying the value of the Key Rate of the Bank of Russia by the value of the required reserve ratio for other liabilities of credit institutions for banks with a universal license, non-bank credit institutions (except for long-term ones) in the currency of the Russian Federation, valid on the date for which interest is accrued, and published on the official website of the Bank of Russia on the Internet.

    Application selection parameters
    Date of the selection of applications 10/08/2024
    Unique identifier of the application selection 22024513
    Deposit currency rubles
    Type of funds funds of the single treasury account
    Maximum amount of funds placed in bank deposits, million monetary units 200,000
    Placement period, in days 35
    Date of deposit 10/09/2024
    Refund date 11/13/2024
    Interest rate for placement of funds (fixed or floating) FLOATING
    Minimum fixed interest rate for placement of funds, % per annum –
    Basic floating interest rate for placement of funds RUONmDS
    Minimum spread, % per annum 0.00
    Terms of conclusion of a bank deposit agreement (fixed-term, replenishable or special) Urgent
    Minimum amount of funds placed for one application, million monetary units 1,000
    Maximum number of applications from one credit institution, pcs. 5
    Application selection form (open or closed) Open
    Application selection schedule (Moscow time)
    Venue for the selection of applications PAO Moscow Exchange
    Applications accepted: from 15:30 to 15:40
    Pre-applications: from 15:30 to 15:35
    Applications in competition mode: from 15:35 to 15:40
    Formation of a consolidated register of applications: from 15:40 to 15:50
    Setting a cut-off percentage rate and/or recognizing the selection of applications as unsuccessful: from 15:40 to 16:00
    Submission of an offer to credit institutions to conclude a bank deposit agreement: from 16:00 to 17:00
    Receiving acceptance of an offer to conclude a bank deposit agreement from credit institutions: from 16:00 to 17:00
    Deposit transfer time In accordance with the requirements of paragraph 63 and paragraph 64 of the Order of the Federal Treasury dated 04/27/2023 No. 10n

    RUONmDS = RUONIA – DS, where

    RUONIA – the value of the indicative weighted rate of overnight ruble loans (deposits) RUONIA, expressed in hundredths of a percent, published on the official website of the Bank of Russia on the Internet on the day preceding the day for which interest is accrued. In the absence of a publication of the RUONIA rate value on the day preceding the day for which interest is accrued, the last of the published RUONIA rate values is taken into account.

    DS – discount – a value expressed in hundredths of a percent and rounded (according to the rules of mathematical rounding) to two decimal places, calculated by multiplying the value of the Key Rate of the Bank of Russia by the value of the required reserve ratio for other liabilities of credit institutions for banks with a universal license, non-bank credit institutions (except for long-term ones) in the currency of the Russian Federation, valid on the date for which interest is accrued, and published on the official website of the Bank of Russia on the Internet.

    Contact information for media 7 (495) 363-3232PR@moex.com

    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://www.moex.com/n73804

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: 10/07/2024, 17-20 (Moscow time) the values of the upper limit of the price corridor and the range of market risk assessment for the security RU000A101L96 (EurChemB1P7) were changed.

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Moscow Exchange – Moscow Exchange –

    07.10.2024 17:20

    In accordance with the Methodology for determining the risk parameters of the stock market and the deposit market of PJSC Moscow Exchange by NCO NCC (JSC), on 10/07/2024, 17-20 (Moscow time), the values of the upper limit of the price corridor (up to 99.6) and the range of market risk assessment (up to 1072.23 rubles, equivalent to a rate of 8.75%) of the security RU000A101L96 (EurHimB1R7) were changed.

    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://www.moex.com/n73802

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Yorkton — UPDATE: Yorkton RCMP seek public assistance locating missing male

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Alec Zwozdesky was located deceased this afternoon in a rural area near Highway #16 west of Yorkton. His family has been notified.

    Yorkton RCMP continues to investigate the circumstances of his death in collaboration with the Saskatchewan Coroner’s Service.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Biden-Harris Administration Ignores Bipartisan Budd Request to Establish Bounty for Hamas Leaders

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ted Budd (R-North Carolina)

    Washington, D.C. — The Biden administration has ignored a bipartisan request from Senator Ted Budd (R-NC) and 11 other Senators to authorize a reward of up to $25 million for information that brings Hamas leaders to justice.

    On September 26, 2024, Senator Budd led a dozen Senators to request that the State Department establish “a reward of up to $25 million under the State Department’s Rewards for Justice (RFJ) program for information that leads to the arrest of, locates, or disrupts the financial support for Yahya Sinwar and other Hamas leaders or operatives responsible for the murder and kidnapping of Americans on October 7, 2023.”

    The deadline to respond was today, the one year anniversary of the October 7th attacks, and the senators have not received a response and no reward has been issued, as of this release.

    The letter was co-signed by Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC), Roger Wicker (R-MS), Joni Ernst (R-IA), Tom Cotton (R-AR), Marco Rubio (R-FL), Ted Cruz (R-TX), Kevin Cramer (R-NC), Katie Britt (R-AL), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Deb Fischer (R-NE), and Lindsey Graham (R-SC).

    Senator Budd said in a statement:

    “One year ago, Hamas terrorists murdered and kidnapped dozens of American citizens. After 365 days, the State Department has failed to issue a bounty that would help bring these terrorists to justice. The fact that the Biden-Harris administration continues to leave tools unused shows a complete disregard for the safety and security of American citizens around the world.”

    Senate Armed Services Committee Ranking Member Roger Wicker said:

    “The Biden-Harris administration should have posted the reward for these monsters’ capture months ago. They are not using every tool at their disposal to defeat Hamas.”

    Full text of the letter:

    Dear Secretary Blinken:

    We write requesting the immediate authorization of a reward of up to $25 million under the State Department’s Rewards for Justice (RFJ) program for information that leads to the arrest of, locates, or disrupts the financial support for Yahya Sinwar and other Hamas leaders or operatives responsible for the murder and kidnapping of Americans on October 7, 2023. The United States must use every tool and resource at its disposal as leverage to secure the release of hostages, including seven Americans, still being held in Gaza and to bring those terrorists responsible to justice.

    As you know, Congress established the RFJ program when it passed the 1984 Act to Combat International Terrorism. We can think of no better way to fulfill congressional intent than to offer rewards for those Hamas leaders identified in the recently unsealed federal criminal complaint charging Yahya Sinwar, Mohammad Al-Masri, Khaled Meshaal, Ali Baraka, and others with terrorism, murder conspiracy, and sanctions-evasion charges related to October 7th.

    We respectfully request a response to this letter no later than October 7, 2024.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Langworthy Secures $1 Million to Upgrade Elma’s Wastewater Treatment System

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Nick Langworthy (NY-23)

    ELMA, NY – Today, Congressman Nick Langworthy (NY-23) secured $1 million in federal funding to consolidate and upgrade the Town of Elma’s wastewater treatment facilities. This funding, part of H.R. 8998, the Department of the Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act for Fiscal Year 2025, which passed the House in July, will allow for the construction of a modern wastewater treatment plant that will serve both the Town of Elma and the Iroquois Central School District.

    “The wastewater treatment plants serving the Town of Elma and the Iroquois Central School District have reached the end of their useful life, and these outdated facilities pose a serious threat to the quality of our water for families in this community,” said Congressman Langworthy. “This significant funding will allow us to build the new infrastructure we need to keep our water safe and support the growth of our community for years to come. Thank you to Supervisor Wayne Clark and other town officials who have been important partners in getting this project off the ground and ensuring our local infrastructure is built to last.” 

    The project will bring together the existing treatment plants serving the Town of Elma and the Iroquois Central School District, both of which have reached the end of their operational lifespans and pose risks to water quality throughout the Buffalo Creek watershed and surrounding areas. By consolidating these two plants into one facility, the town will benefit from improved water quality management, enhanced environmental protection, and a cost-effective solution for taxpayers.

    Watch the full press conference here

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE conducts single adult, family unit removal flights Oct. 4

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    WASHINGTON — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, a component agency of the Department of Homeland Security, working in close coordination across the department, including with U.S. Customs and Border Protection, continued to facilitate removal flights of single adults and family units between Sept. 30 and Oct. 4.

    Those included removal flights to Brazil, Central America, Colombia, Ecuador, Dominican Republic, Mexico and Peru. If a noncitizen arrives and has no legal basis to remain in the United States, they are processed and removed quickly, consistent with U.S. law.

    In the year following the end of the Title 42 public health order — between May 12, 2023, and May 12, 2024 — DHS removed or returned over 742,000 individuals, the vast majority of whom crossed the southwest border, including more than 111,000 individual family members. Total removals and returns in that period exceeded removals and returns in every full fiscal year since 2010.

    Since the presidential proclamation to temporarily suspend the entry of certain noncitizens across the southern border and the complementary joint interim final rule issued by DHS and the U.S. Department of Justice seventeen weeks ago, DHS has removed and returned more than 140,000 individuals to more than 144 countries, including by operating more than 430 international repatriation flights. DHS has almost tripled the percentage of noncitizens processed through Expedited Removal while in CBP or ICE custody. Expedited Removal processing was already at record levels prior to the Proclamation.

    In keeping with standard practice, the United States ensures that all noncitizens without a legal basis to remain in the United States are properly screened for valid protection claims and withholding of removal in accordance with our laws and U.S. international obligations. This applies to all noncitizens, regardless of nationality, to ensure the orderly and humane processing, transfer and removal of single adults and family units.

    Noncitizens placed into removal proceedings present their claims for relief or protection from removal before immigration judges in the immigration courts, which are administered by the Justice Department’s Executive Office for Immigration Review. Due to operational security reasons, ICE does not confirm or discuss future or pending transportation operations.

    ICE Air Operations facilitates the transfer and removal of noncitizens, including family units, via commercial airlines and chartered flights in support of ICE field offices and other DHS initiatives. In fiscal year 2023, ICE’s Enforcement and Removal Operations conducted 142,580 removals and 62,545 Title 42 expulsions to more than 170 countries worldwide.

    B-roll for removal flights is available here. DHS has made additional videos available to the public and the media, including b-roll footage of removal flights, a public service announcement and testimonials from migrants who have been removed.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Interaction with Startups from India and EU- An outcome of the Matchmaking Event on EV Battery Recycling under the India-EU Trade and Technology Council WG2

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 04 OCT 2024 7:53PM by PIB Delhi

    The Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India hosted a delegation from the European Union with representatives from startups in the space of battery recycling technologies from EU Member States, officials from the Delegation of EU to India along with members from select Indian startups.  This important interaction was focused on the experiential learning gained by the startups through their immersion visits as an outcome of the Electric vehicle (EV) battery recycling matchmaking event held on 20th June 2024, under the aegis of the India-EU Trade and Technology Council’s Working Group 2 (WG2) on Green & Clean Energy Technologies.

    The discussion was chaired by Prof. Ajay Kumar Sood, Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India. Dr. Parvinder Maini, Scientific Secretary at the Office of the PSA, also joined Prof. Sood to underscore the significance of the collaboration between India and the EU in clean and green energy technologies. Distinguished guests included Dr. Ewa Suwara, Deputy Head of the EU Delegation to India; and D.Ing. Pierrick Fillon-Ashida, Head of Research & Innovation, EU Delegation to India. Dr. Monoranjan Mohanty, Adviser/Scientist ‘G’, and Dr. Hafsa Ahmad, Scientist ‘D’, from the Office of the PSA, also participated in the discussion.

    The interaction highlighted the significant progress made in fostering collaboration between Indian and European startups in the critical area of EV battery recycling technologies. Key speakers emphasized the shared commitment of India and the EU to innovation, sustainability, and the transition to a circular economy.

    Prof. Ajay Kumar Sood remarked on the importance of such partnerships for achieving environmental sustainability and economic resilience, stating, “This collaboration opens up new opportunities for technology transfer, market access, and co-development. It is essential for fostering economic resilience and sustainable development.”

    Dr. Ewa Suwara, Deputy Head of the EU Delegation to India, reinforced this sentiment by noting, “Recycling EV batteries is a geopolitical and climate imperative, as every ounce recovered enhances energy security and fuels green growth. I am delighted to see that through the support of Trade and Technology Council, we are able to support the EU and Indian startups to join forces, pioneer innovation, foster business collaboration, and drive market uptake of cutting-edge technologies. This is a shining example of partnership in action, shaping a more sustainable tomorrow.”

    During the event, Indian startups, recognized as winners in the matchmaking event held on June 20, 2024, shared their experiences from the immersion trips in the EU (held in Sep 2024), providing valuable insights into their learnings and market opportunities. In parallel, EU startups currently in India for their immersion visits also shared their expectations and vision, contributing to a deeper understanding of cross-regional collaboration. The participating startups from India included BatX Energies, Evergreen Lithium Recycling Pvt Ltd., LW3 Pvt Ltd. and Lohum while startups from EU included Ecomet Refining, and Eneris.

    About the Trade and Technology Council set up by India and the EU

    The India-EU Trade and Technology Council (TTC) was first announced by the European Commission President, Ursula von der Leyen, and India’s Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, in April 2022. Established on February 6, 2023, this strategic coordination mechanism allows both sides to tackle challenges at the nexus of trade, trusted technology, and security, and deepens cooperation in these fields. Establishing India-EU TTC is a key step towards a strengthened strategic partnership for the benefit of all people in India and the EU.

    The TTC is a key forum to deepen the strategic partnership on trade and technology between the two partners. Geostrategic challenges have reinforced the EU and India’s common interest in ensuring security, prosperity, and sustainable development based on shared values.

    The TTC consists of three Working Groups:

    1. Working Group 1 on Strategic Technologies, Digital Governance and Digital Connectivity
    2. Working Group 2 on Green and Clean Energy Technologies; and
    3. Working Group 3 on Trade, Investment and Resilient Value Chains.

    Working Groups are now jointly working to advance identified objectives and key actions. The matchmaking event was one of the key agreed short-term actions under Working Group 2 on Green and Clean Energy Technologies. The India-EU TTC Working Group 2 on Green and Clean Energy Technologies is being led by the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India from the Indian side and the Directorate-General for Research and Innovation of the European Commission from the EU side.

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    MJPS/ST

    (Release ID: 2062183) Visitor Counter : 71

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw Interacts with Chief Loco Inspectors at Nashik, Maharashtra

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 04 OCT 2024 8:39PM by PIB Delhi

    Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, Union Minister of Railways, Information & broadcasting, and Electronics & Information Technology, today interacted with Chief Loco Inspectors (CLIs) undergoing training at the Indian Railways Institute of Electrical Engineering (IRIEEN) , Nashik today. During his visit, the Minister discussed various key issues related to modernizing locomotive operations and enhancing safety measures on Indian Railways.

    Shri Vaishnaw engaged with the CLIs about their training experience, particularly in the use of Kavach, the indigenous Automatic Train Protection (ATP) system. The CLIs shared their insights on how the Kavach system boosts their confidence in maintaining speed and improving both safety and punctuality during train operations. Discussions also focused on modern braking systems, new technology in locomotives, and effective crew management practices.

    The Union Minister commended the efforts of the Railways in improving working conditions for the crew, including the introduction of 100% air-conditioned Running Rooms and improved facilities for loco inspectors. He also acknowledged ongoing efforts to reduce duty hours by splitting duty rosters and enhancing the comfort and safety of locomotives by equipping them with air-conditioning,  toilets and comfort seats.

    During his interaction to CLIs, Shri Vaishnaw underlined the importance of strict adherence to safety protocols and reiterated on training modules which includes simulators, suggestions from field staff etc.  Shri S K Rathi, CLI/Bhopal division while sharing the experiences said that “ interlocking helps Station Master for safe operation, PSC Sleepers track for Trackman and Kavach is a revolutionary step as it helps Loco Pilots for safe train operation “. In continuation with this one of the CLIs said that Kavach has not only helped for safe train operations but also to keep their family happy as LP duty has become safe due to Kavach. Kavach is helping to prevent SPAD (Signal Passing at Danger) incidents and ensures safety at level crossing gates said one of the CLI while sharing his experiences.The Union Minister urged the CLIs to take full advantage of the modern technologies being introduced and emphasized the importance of continuous learning, dedication, and commitment in maintaining the high standards of Indian Railways.

    As part of his visit to Nashik, the Union Minister also paid respects at the Shirdi Sai Baba Temple, seeking blessings for the continued progress and safety of Indian Railways and its dedicated workforce.

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    DT/SK

    (Release ID: 2062216) Visitor Counter : 73

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Special Campaign 4.0 launched in the Akashvani Stations/Offices on 2nd October, 2024

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Special Campaign 4.0 launched in the Akashvani Stations/Offices  on 2nd October, 2024

    DG Akashvani, launches special campaign with Swachh Bharat Abhiyan at Akashvani Bhawan; Pays tribute to Mahatma Gandhi and promotes cleanliness drive

    Nationwide special cleanliness drive in all Prasar Bharati offices from 2nd to 31st October 2024

    Sanitation drive launched at over 300 Akashvani Kendras, targeting 1000+ cleaning locations, focusing on green energy adoption

    Posted On: 04 OCT 2024 7:56PM by PIB Delhi

    Special Campaign in Akashvani was launched today by Dr. Pragya Paliwal Gaur, DG, Akashvani in Akashvani Bhawan Complex, New Delhi. During this event senior officers of Akashvani were present and a pledge/oath was undertaken. After paying floral tributes at the statue of Mahatma Gandhi, DG led the employees of Akashvani and visited various identified spots in the Campus for cleaning as part of Swatchh Bharat Abhiyan. ADG (News), NSD ; DDG(Admn), Akashvani ; DDG (Policy) Akashvani , Director (News) , and other officials of the Akashvani Directorate, Akashvani Delhi and News Service Division were also present.

    Special cleanliness drive from 2nd to 31st October in all offices of Prasar Bharati

    DG, Akashvani emphasized the importance of Swachhata and sanitation drive initiated by Hon’ble Prime Minister on 2nd October, 2014 throughout the country. She urged the officials to conduct special cleanliness drive from 2nd October, 2024 to 31st October, 2024 in all offices of Prasar Bharati throughout the country. She desired that the activities like – cleanliness of building/premises; disposal of waste, garbage, condemned furniture, e-waste and weeding out of old records as per prescribed procedure should be done during this period. As part of safety in cleaning, Personal Hygienic Kits, Safety Caps and Snacks were distributed to Sanitation and Security Workers.

    Sanitation drive launched at 300+ Akashvani Kendras as part of special campaign 4.0

    Sanitation drive at 300+ Kendras of Akashvani also started simultaneously and cleaning activities undertaken as part of Special Campaign 4.0. More than 1000 spots have been identified at field offices/ stations for undertaking cleaning activities.  This year emphasis will be made for Energy Audit ,  up-gradation of records room,  Identification of old redundant e-waste, old electrical installations , old AC plants and their  disposal and moving towards use of green energy across all major Akashvani stations.

    Photo Glimpse: Dr. Pragya Paliwal Gaur inspects Akashvani campus in New Delhi as special Swachhata Campaign 4.0 launches

     

     

     

    Photo Glimpse: Swachhata Abhiyan at various Akashvani offices

    The Swachhata Abhiyan, a significant initiative promoting cleanliness, was actively observed across different Akashvani offices. Employees participated enthusiastically in various cleaning activities, ensuring that their workspaces reflect the spirit of cleanliness and hygiene. From organizing waste disposal to tidying up the surroundings, the commitment to maintaining a clean environment was evident. The photo glimpses captured the dedication and teamwork of Akashvani staff, showcasing their efforts to contribute to the larger goal of a cleaner and healthier community

     

    Akashvani, Raikot

                               Akashvani, Odisha

                        Akashvani, Karnataka

    Akashvani, Santiniketan

                               Akashvani, Rajsthan

    Akashvani, Berhampur

    Akashvani, Gangtok

                     Akashvani, Guwahati

    Akashvani, Kolkata

     

     

    Social media links

       https://x.com/AkashvaniAIR/status/1841377155650928658?t=-PAf224Bd-3awNMqk59A_Q&s=08

       https://x.com/AkashvaniAIR/status/1841378326239215849?t=BaH-8eA3ZisJV_JfToICUQ&s=08   

       https://x.com/AkashvaniAIR/status/1841371411119571266?t=L6NHijKvWrl8jMo3e86XBA&s=08  

       https://x.com/AkashvaniAIR/status/1841368840095084895?t=ONqXj8TM9s67vVosofBuhQ&s=08

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    Kshitij Singha

    (Release ID: 2062189) Visitor Counter : 49

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: “Swachhata Hi Sewa (SHS-2024) Campaign – ‘Swabhav Swachhata – Sanskaar Swachhata’

    Source: Government of India (2)

    “Swachhata Hi Sewa (SHS-2024) Campaign – ‘Swabhav Swachhata – Sanskaar Swachhata’

    Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) drives Nationwide cleanliness and social welfare initiatives under leadership of Shri S Krishnan

    Posted On: 04 OCT 2024 8:00PM by PIB Delhi

    The Swachhata Hi Sewa (SHS 2024) Campaign was organized in MeitY from 17th   Sept 2024 to 2nd Oct 2024 with great energy and enthusiasm and a large number of activities ranging from pledge ceremony, lectures, tree plantation, cleanliness drives, health & social welfare Shivirs & slogan competitions were organized by MeitY and all associated organizations under the guidance of Shri S Krishnan Secretary MeitY and Shri Bhuvnesh Kumar, Additional Secretary MeitY.

     

    32 competitions, 21 health camps, and 15 welfare camps for SafaiMitras

    Along with the MeitY organizations 127 pledge taking ceremonies were held, 32 slogan/waste to Art competitions were held, 45 Walkathons/Cyclothons were held, 571 tree plantation activities were undertaken, 39 CTU were cleansed, 21 Health Camps & 15 welfare camps for Safai Mitras were organized. Photographs and videos of the events were uploaded on the SHS-2024 portal.  The MeitY has also issued messages on X social media.

     

    Pledge Taking Ceremony

     

     

     

    CTU

     

     

          ShramDaan

     
         

     

     Lecture on Plastic waste, solid

    waste and liquid waste at MeitY

     

    ‘Cleanliness is Next to Godliness’

     

    On the culmination of the SHS 2024 on the occasion of Mahatma Gandhiji’s Birth Anniversary, a cultural programme was organized under chairmanship of Secretary MeitY with participation of Shri Akash Tripathi, MD & CEO MyGov, Shri Sushil Kumar, JS, Shri Shobhendra Bahadur, Dir Pers. and other senior officers of the level of Sr Directors, DGs, CEOs and SafaiMitras. The cultural event brought out the message of “Cleanliness is next to Godliness” as envisioned by our father of the Nation.

     

     

     

    Cultural Event

     

     

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    Kshitij Singha

    (Release ID: 2062192) Visitor Counter : 47

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: DELIVERY OF AMMUNITION CUM TORPEDO CUM MISSILE BARGE, LSAM 21 (YARD 131)

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 04 OCT 2024 9:39PM by PIB Delhi

    The delivery of ‘Ammunition Cum Torpedo Cum Missile Barge, LSAM 21’, 7th Barge of 11 x ACTCM Barge Project, built by MSME Shipyard, M/s Suryadipta Projects Pvt Ltd, Thane for Indian Navy, was undertaken on 04 Oct 24 at Naval Dockyard, Mumbai for NAD(Karanja). The Induction Ceremony was presided over by Cmde SV Shidore, AGM (PR), ND (Mbi). 

    The contract for building 11 X ACTCM Barge was signed between MoD and M/s Suryadipta Projects Pvt Ltd, Thane on 05 Mar 21. Induction of these Barges would provide impetus to operational commitments of IN by facilitating Transportation, Embarkation and Disembarkation of articles/ ammunition to IN Platforms both alongside jetties and at outer harbours.

    These Barges are indigenously designed and built under relevant Naval Rules and Regulation of Indian Register of Shipping. The model testing of the Barge during design stage was undertaken at Naval Science and Technological Laboratory, Visakhapatnam. These Barges are proud flag bearers of Make in India initiative of Government of India.

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    VM/SKY              

    (Release ID: 2062253) Visitor Counter : 62

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