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  • MIL-OSI Australia: Archie Moore unveils a new moving image commission at Samstag Museum of Art

    Source: University of South Australia

    04 October 2024

    In his first exhibition since winning the prestigious Golden Lion at the 2024 Venice Biennale, Kamilaroi/Bigambul artist, Archie Moore, presents an ambitious new moving image work at the University of South Australia’s Samstag Museum of Art as part of the Adelaide Film Festival.

    Archie Moore: AFF and Samstag Moving Image Commission 2024 will feature as part of the Wirltuti (‘spring’ in Kaurna) season of exhibitions that run from 11 October to 29 November 2024.

    Sponsored by Dr David Bunton and Helen Stacey-Bunton, Archie Moore will be a UniSA Pirku murititya Visiting Research Fellow during October 2024.

    During this time, Moore will transform the Samstag gallery with a scaled and meticulously recreated replica of his childhood home. This will be Moore’s fifth iteration of his series Dwelling, installations that explore the rooms and spaces of his childhood family home.

    An ongoing investigation of memory and effects of colonisation, the exhibition draws on visual, auditory, haptic and olfactory elements in its staging. Moore has worked closely with filmmaker Molly Reynolds (Charlie’s Country, David Gulpillil) to realise the ambitious project.

    Erica Green, Director, Samstag Museum of Art says it’s been an honour to work closely with Archie over the past two years on his forthcoming work.

    “24 years ago, Archie was awarded the Anne and Gordon Samstag International Visual Arts Scholarship, as a recent art school graduate. Since then, he’s gone on to build a remarkable career of international standing,” Green says.

    “Archie’s new moving image work is part of the 13th Adelaide Film Festival and Samstag Art and Moving Image Commission.

    “Our Wirltuti Season of exhibitions is a testament to our proud, long-standing and fruitful relationship with the Adelaide Film Festival that supports exceptional artists to create bold and visionary work.”

    Samstag will also premiere the inaugural AFF/Samstag 2024 Expand Moving Image Commission featuring a series of experimental docu-fiction moving image works by artists Susan Norrie, Matthew Thorne and Emmaline Zanelli.

    In three chapters, these artists follow the narrative threads of mining in Australia, focusing on fly-in-fly-out workers, their families, environmental impacts and the complex relationship experienced by First Nations custodians of the land on which the resource extraction takes place.

    Together they offer counter-perspectives to frequently cliched assumptions, excavating this underrepresented but critical sector of contemporary Australia.

    Samstag has a long history of commissioning and presenting screen-based works through its partnership with the Adelaide Film Festival. Previous art and moving image commissions have included Warwick Thornton (Stranded, 2011), Lynette Wallworth (Duality of Light, 2009) and Amos Gebhardt (Small acts of resistance, 2021).

    Notes for editors:

    • The Wirltuti Season Launch on Tuesday 22 October, 5:30-7:30pm
      Please join us for a drink and music in Fenn Place outside the Samstag Museum of Art entrance, Hawke Building, UniSA City West campus, 55 North Terrace, Adelaide.
      (Registrations encouraged: https://events.humanitix.com/wirltuti-season-launch)
    • Archie Moore in conversation with Mathew Kesting on Saturday 26 October, 3:00-4:00pm
      Please join us for a conversation about film with Archie Moore
      Samstag Museum of Art, Hawke Building, UniSA City West campus, 55 North Terrace, Adelaide.
      (Registrations essential: https://events.humanitix.com/in-conversation-with-archie-moore-and-matt-kesting).
    • Archie Moore – Deaf Led Tour on Saturday 19 October 1:00-2:30pm
      Please join us for an Aslan only tour of the exhibition.
      Samstag Museum of Art, Hawke Building, UniSA City West campus, 55 North Terrace, Adelaide.

    The Samstag is open every Wednesday from 10am-12pm. Entry is free.

    For more information, visit http://www.unisa.edu.au/samstagmuseum

    ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

    For further information, to arrange interviews and to obtain high-resolution images, contact:  
    Erica Green M: +61 438 821 239 E: Erica.Green@unisa.edu.au
    Media contact: Annabel Mansfield M: +61 479 182 489 E: Annabel.Mansfield@unisa.edu.au

    Other articles you may be interested in

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Biden-Harris Administration Provides More Than $20 Million to Hurricane Helene Survivors, Ongoing Search and Rescue Operations Continue in North Carolina

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Biden-Harris Administration Provides More Than $20 Million to Hurricane Helene Survivors, Ongoing Search and Rescue Operations Continue in North Carolina

    Biden-Harris Administration Provides More Than $20 Million to Hurricane Helene Survivors, Ongoing Search and Rescue Operations Continue in North Carolina

    Today, President Biden will travel to Georgia and Florida to survey damage, meet with local officials, community leaders and first responders

    WASHINGTON — As search and rescue, power restoration and communication capabilities remain top priorities throughout the Southeast, FEMA has already helped thousands of Hurricane Helene survivors jumpstart their recoveries with more than $20 million in flexible, upfront funding.  

    More than 5,000 personnel from across the federal workforce are deployed, including more than 1,500 from FEMA. To date, FEMA has shipped over 9.3 million meals, more than 11.2 million liters of water, 150 generators and more than 260,000 tarps to the region. 

    President Biden has approved a Major Disaster declaration for eight counties in Tennessee. This declaration comes in addition to areas in Georgia, Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina and Virginia. Yesterday, the President announced an increase in federal cost share for each state to help state, tribal and local governments and non-profit organizations cover the cost of recovery.

    Disaster survivors in declared areas can begin their recovery process by applying for federal assistance through FEMA. People with damage to their homes or personal property who live in the designated counties should apply for assistance, which may include upfront funds to help with essential items like food, water, baby formula and other emergency supplies. Funds may also be available to repair storm-related damage to homes and personal property, as well as assistance to find a temporary place to stay.

    There are three ways apply for FEMA assistance:

    Homeowners and renters with damage to their home or personal property from previous disasters, whether they received FEMA funds or not, are still eligible to apply for and receive assistance for Hurricane Helene.

    Voluntary organizations are also providing personnel and resources to the hardest hit areas. The American Red Cross has more than 850 trained disaster workers providing comfort and operating shelters. Additionally, they are helping find loved ones through their helpline 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or by visiting the Red Cross Hurricane Helene Reunification page, where you can enter pertinent information about the person you’re looking for. If someone is missing a child related to this disaster or any other incident, they need to call 9-1-1 and then 1-800-THE-LOST to receive assistance from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.

    People can receive free services like cutting fallen trees, tarping roofs and mold mitigation with the help of Crisis Cleanup by calling 844-965-1386. The hotline is open through October 11 and can connect people with volunteers from local relief organizations, community groups and the faith-based community who may be able to assist.

    Connectivity is crucial for disaster response and lifesaving operations. With areas still experiencing mass communications outages, it’s critical that local, state and federal first responders can communicate with each other to conduct lifesaving operations like search and rescue. Fortunately, FEMA has resources that can ensure communications support in even the most remote areas affected by Helene.

    One of FEMA’s tools for emergency communications is Starlink, a mobile unit that allows customers high-speed internet by connecting to satellites. FEMA has successfully deployed Starlink in previous disasters including Guam, Hawaii and Alaska. Because the unit is portable and weighs less than 15 pounds, FEMA can deliver it to the areas that need it most, bringing connectivity to over 100 users.

    Over 60 Starlink units have been sent to multiple states in support of Hurricane Helene response efforts, including 40 units to North Carolina with more on the way. FEMA is in the process of purchasing additional units for use in other areas affected by the storm.

    North Carolina

    In North Carolina, more than 500 FEMA staff are on the ground in North Carolina, with more arriving daily.  over 30 Disaster Survivor Assistance staff are on the ground in affected areas to help survivors to apply for FEMA assistance and connect them with additional state, local, federal and voluntary agency resources. 

    Over 38 state and federal Urban Search and Rescue teams are in North Carolina helping people. As of today, these have rescued or supported over 2,100 survivors. Additional federal search and rescue teams have arrived to support the mission. 

    Wednesday, President Biden visited the state to survey damage and meet with community leaders and state officials. Administrator Criswell remains in North Carolina and will be on the ground until the situation has stabilized. 

    FEMA has activated Transitional Sheltering Assistance for North Carolinians displaced by Tropical Storm Helene. Residents in declared counties who have applied for disaster assistance may be eligible to stay temporarily in a hotel or motel paid for by FEMA while they work on their long-term housing plan. People do not need to request this assistance. FEMA will notify them of their eligibility through an automated phone call, text message and/or email, depending upon the method of communication they selected at the time of application for disaster assistance.

    As of today, more than 70% of originally reported power outages have been restored. Nearly 8,000 crews continue to assist with remaining power restoration efforts.

    To date, over 40,000 people have applied for disaster assistance and FEMA has paid out more than $6.2 million in Individual Assistance directly to survivors. 

    Cellular restoration continues to improve, with less than 38% of cellular sites down as of today. Ten counties have 50% or more cell sites down. Two Federal Communications Commission surveillance teams are conducting inspection operations on equipment in targeted counties.  FEMA is boosting response coordination by providing 40 Starlink units to ensure first responders can communicate with each other. 

    The Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians has full mobile cellular service. 

    Commodity distribution, mass feeding and hydration operations are underway in areas of western North Carolina. FEMA commodity shipments are enroute to support operations. 

    Voluntary organizations are supporting mass feeding operations with bulk food and water deliveries coming via truck and aircraft. 

    The American Red Cross is engaging in targeted distribution of emergency supplies in low-income communities with high levels of minor or affected residential damage. 

    Twenty-six shelters are housing over 1,000 occupants. Mobile feeding operations continue to help survivors in heavily impacted areas, including 3 mass feeding sites in Buncombe, McDowell and Watauga counties. 

    The North Carolina National Guard has delivered 12 aircraft pallets, totaling more than 100,000lbs of food and over 38,000lbs of water to Asheville.

    Information for Residents

    • Residents can visit: ncdps.gov/helene to get information and additional assistance.  
    • Residents should not travel to western North Carolina to keep the roadways clear for search and rescue teams and utility crews.  
    • Residents can get in touch with loved ones by calling 2-1-1 or visiting unitedwaync.org to add them to search and rescue efforts.   

    Florida

    Today, President Biden will visit the state to survey damage and meet with state and local leaders.

    On Wednesday, five counties were added to the disaster declaration, bringing the total eligible for Individual Assistance to 22 counties. Survivors in Columbia, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Leon and Suwannee counties may now apply for FEMA disaster assistance. FEMA specialists are canvassing Florida communities impacted by Hurricane Helene to help survivors apply for assistance. Additionally, FEMA inspectors have begun visiting applicants’ homes to verify disaster-caused damage.

    FEMA has received over 85,000 applications for assistance and has provided more than $7.5 million to survivors.

    The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is conducting either debris assessments or water/wastewater assessments across seven counties.

    The American Red Cross is engaging in targeted distribution of emergency supplies in low-income communities with high levels of minor or affected residential damage. More than 450 volunteers continue conducting direct emergency feeding and working with feeding partners to provide distribution in support of partner production. Sixteen shelters remain open with less than 475 occupants.

    The Salvation Army has active mobile feeding units serving meals and distributing supplies in 13 counties.

    Residents in need of information or resources should call the State Assistance Information Line (SAIL) at 1-800-342-3557. English, Spanish and Creole speakers are available to answer questions.

    Georgia

    Today, President Biden will visit to survey damage in various affected areas of Georgia. On Wednesday, Vice President Harris visited Richmond County to meet with community leaders. On Wednesday, Vice President Harris was in Augusta to survey damage and meet with local officials. 

    FEMA has received nearly 100,000 applications for assistance. FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams are on the ground in neighborhoods across the affected counties helping survivors apply for FEMA assistance and connecting them with additional state, local, federal and voluntary agency resources.  

    The Salvation Army has 26 active mobile feeding units providing meals and support to 10 counties in the affected areas.  

    The American Red Cross is engaging in targeted distribution of emergency supplies in low-income communities with high levels of minor or affected residential damage. The organization continues to conduct direct emergency feeding and working with feeding partners to provide distribution in support of partner production. Two new shelters opened yesterday, totaling 10 shelters with over 500 occupants.  

    Residents can find resources like shelters and feeding sites at gema.georgia.gov/hurricane-helene.

    South Carolina

    Today, FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams are on the ground in neighborhoods across the affected counties helping survivors apply for FEMA assistance and connecting them with additional state, local, federal and voluntary agency resources.  

    Region 10 Regional Administrator Willie Nunn is on the ground to help oversee response and recovery operations in the state.

    In South Carolina, FEMA has received over 88,000 applications and distributed more than $4.4 million to survivors.  

    The American Red Cross is engaging in targeted distribution of emergency supplies in low-income communities with high levels of minor or affected residential damage. One shelter closed yesterday. Nine shelters remain open with less than 175 occupants. 

    Team Rubicon is continuing to route clearance operations in Spartanburg County and continues planning for clearing other areas. 

    The state has established a Mass Feeding Task Force to include multiple voluntary agencies. Three Salvation Army mobile feeding units are in hard hit areas. FEMA is supporting the state’s feeding mission with Meals Ready to Eat and drinking water.  

     Information for Residents

    • Residents with questions on Hurricane Helene can call the state’s toll-free hotline, open 24 hours a day, at 1-866-246-0133. 
    • Residents who are dependent on medical equipment at home and who are without power due to Helene may be eligible for a medical needs shelter. Call the state’s Department of Public Health Care Line at 1-855-472-3432 for more information. 

    Virginia  

    Several federal agencies, including FEMA, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Department of Energy and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, are already in Virginia and working hard with their counterparts with the Virginia Department of Emergency Management and other state agencies. Priorities include coordinating the removal of debris and restoration of critical infrastructure.

    Today, the first Disaster Survivor Assistance staff will start working on the ground in neighborhoods across the affected counties. These teams help survivors apply for FEMA assistance and connect them with additional state, local, federal and voluntary agency resources.

    Residents of Giles, Grayson, Smyth, Tazewell, Washington and Wythe counties, as well as residents of the city of Galax, are eligible to apply for assistance from FEMA to help with costs from damage and losses due to Tropical Storm Helene.

    Tennessee

    On Wednesday, President Biden approved a major disaster declaration for the state. This includes individual assistance for Carter, Cocke, Greene, Hamblen, Hawkins, Johnson, Unicoi and Washington counties.

    Individual Assistance provides money to survivors for serious needs, including food, gas and medication. It also provides money for the repair and/or replacement of personal property and repairs to a disaster-damaged home.

    Shelter and mass feeding operations have expanded with support from National Guard, delivering food to Unicoi, Washington and Carter counties via aircraft.

    Ten shelters remain open with decreasing populations, as people are able to safely return home.

    Power and cellular restoration continues to improve. Power has been restored to nearly all customers and less than 13% of cellular sites are down across the affected area.

    Information for Residents

    • Residents can call 1-800-824-3463 to report a missing person. Callers should be prepared to provide as much information as possible including names, phone numbers, vehicle identification and last known whereabouts.  
    • Counties have started establishing donation centers. For the evolving list, visit TEMA’s website.

    mashana.davis

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: FEMA Specialists in Georgia Communities After Hurricane Helene

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: FEMA Specialists in Georgia Communities After Hurricane Helene

    FEMA Specialists in Georgia Communities After Hurricane Helene

    ATLANTA — FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance crews are in Georgia neighborhoods helping people apply for FEMA assistance after Hurricane Helene.

    DSA teams wear FEMA attire and have federal photo identification badges. The teams go door to door in impacted neighborhoods to help people apply for federal assistance, check the status of an application, identify potential needs and make connections with organizations that can provide resources. DSA crews never ask for, or accept, money.

    How to Apply 

    Homeowners and renters in Appling, Atkinson, Bacon, Ben Hill, Berrien, Brooks, Bulloch, Burke, Candler, Chatham, Clinch, Coffee, Colquitt, Columbia, Cook, Echols, Emanuel, Evans, Glascock, Irwin, Jeff Davis, Jefferson, Jenkins, Johnson, Lanier, Laurens, Liberty, Lincoln, Lowndes, McDuffie, Montgomery, Pierce, Richmond, Screven, Tattnall, Telfair, Toombs, Treutlen, Ware, Washington and Wheeler counties can apply in several ways: Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, use the FEMA App, or call 800-621-3362 any day of the week. If you use a relay service, such as Video Relay Service (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service. For an accessible video on how to apply for assistance go to FEMA Accessible: Applying for Individual Assistance – YouTube. 

    For the latest information about Georgia’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4830. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.

    sandra.habib

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Government of Canada appoints new Chair of the Canada Foundation for Innovation Board of Directors

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    News release

    Nancy Déziel will further strengthen Canada’s leadership in science and research

    October 3, 2024 – Ottawa, Ontario

    Canada’s science and research sector pushes the boundaries of innovation thanks to cutting-edge facilities, laboratories and equipment. Working alongside universities, research institutions and businesses, the Canada Foundation for Innovation (CFI) provides essential funding for modern, high-quality research facilities and infrastructure. By equipping Canadian researchers with the tools they need, the CFI fosters solutions to today’s global challenges, drives innovation and advances knowledge that enhances the well-being of Canadians.

    Today, the Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry, announced the appointment Nancy Déziel as Chair of the CFI Board of Directors for a three-year term, effective September 20, 2024.

    Ms. Déziel has a wealth of experience in the science and research sectors, having held various senior leadership positions throughout her career. She has been working actively with the College Centres for the Transfer of Technologies for 30 years and was previously a member of the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada’s Council.

    Ms. Déziel began her career as a laboratory technician and advanced to roles such as quality lead, project lead, business development officer and ultimately, Director General at the National Center in Environmental technology and Electrochemistry. She helped establish laboratories at the Industrial Waste Technology Centre, and she served as a technology advisor with Réseau Trans-Tech, enhancing her expertise in agriculture, food, and biotechnology. She also chaired the Chambre de commerce et d’industrie de Shawinigan from 2011 to 2013 and served as the Vice-President of the Fonds de recherche du Québec – Nature et technologies board of directors from 2011 to 2019. Ms. Déziel is actively involved in numerous organizations, including serving as Administrator of the Réseau des CCTT Synchronex and President of the ADRIQ board of directors.

    In addition to welcoming Ms. Déziel to her new role, Minister Champagne thanks former board chair Dr. Ingrid Pickering, who served in the position for six years.

    The CFI is an independent organization created through federal legislation in 1997 to support advanced research infrastructure in Canadian universities, colleges, research hospitals and non-profit research institutions. The CFI provides funding for state-of-the-art facilities and equipment that increase Canada’s capability to carry out high-quality research.

    Quotes

    “I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to Nancy Déziel on her new leadership role. Her guidance will be pivotal as CFI continues to enhance Canada’s research ecosystem, not only in supporting groundbreaking projects but also in fostering collaboration among institutions.”
    – The Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry

    “The Canada Foundation for Innovation contributes to the advancement of research and development and the pursuit of excellence, which are the drivers of Canada’s innovation. I am proud to be undertaking this major role in supporting the ecosystem dedicated to an increasingly efficient innovation continuum: universities, colleges and industries for a better future for the citizens of Canada. I want to thank Minister François-Philippe Champagne for his trust, along with all those who contribute to this wonderful ecosystem through their work.”
    – Nancy Déziel, Chair, Canada Foundation for Innovation Board of Directors

    Quick facts

    • The CFI Board of Directors is made up of 13 people, six of whom—including the Chair—are appointed by the Governor-in-Council on the recommendation of the Minister. The Board makes final decisions on projects to be funded and approves the CFI’s annual plans and objectives, reviewing the outcomes of these objectives every year. By providing strategic direction and oversight, the Board of Directors supports the CFI in its mandate to increase Canada’s capability to carry out important world-class scientific research and technology development, leading to economic growth and job creation through innovation.

    • This appointment follows an open, transparent and merit-based selection process.

    • Since 2016, the federal government has invested over $22 billion in science and research initiatives, including infrastructure, emerging talent and other science and technology support measures.

    • Budget 2024 provided investments of $734 million in modern, high-quality research facilities and infrastructure to help solve real-world problems, create economic opportunities, and attract and train the next generation of scientific talent.

    Associated links

    Contacts

    Audrey Milette
    Press Secretary
    Office of the Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry
    audrey.milette@ised-isde.gc.ca

    Media Relations
    Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada
    media@ised-isde.gc.ca

    Stay connected

    Find more services and information on the Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada website.

    Follow Canadian Science on social media.
    Facebook: Canadian Science | Instagram: @cdnscience

    Follow the department on social media.
    X (Twitter): @ISED_CA | LinkedIn: Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Translation: Statement by G7 Leaders on Recent Developments in the Middle East

    MIL OSI Translation. Canadian French to English –

    Source: Prime Minister of Canada – in French

    We, the G7 leaders, express our deep concern about the deteriorating situation in the Middle East and condemn in the strongest terms Iran’s direct military attack on Israel, which poses a serious threat to the stability of the region.

    We unequivocally reiterate our commitment to Israel’s security. Iran’s highly destabilizing actions across the Middle East, through proxy terrorist groups and armed groups, such as the Houthis, Hezbollah, and Hamas, and militias sympathetic to Iran, must cease. Yesterday, we discussed concerted measures and efforts to prevent escalation in the region.

    A dangerous cycle of attacks and retaliation risks uncontrollable escalation across the Middle East, which is in no one’s interest. We therefore urge all regional actors to act responsibly and with restraint. We encourage all parties to engage constructively to de-escalate current tensions. International humanitarian law must be respected.

    On the eve of the tragic anniversary of the October 7, 2023 attacks perpetrated by Hamas, we once again condemn in the strongest possible terms these unjustified acts of deliberate violence and stand with the families of the victims and the hostages held by Hamas.

    Furthermore, we reiterate our call for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, the unconditional release of all hostages, a significant and sustained increase in the flow of humanitarian aid and an end to the conflict. We fully support the efforts of the United States, Qatar and Egypt to reach such a comprehensive agreement, in line with United Nations Security Council resolution 2735. The situation in Gaza is dire and tens of thousands of innocent lives have been lost. We reiterate the absolute need to protect the civilian population and to allow full, rapid, safe and unhindered humanitarian access. We will continue our efforts to create the conditions for a lasting peace that will lead to a two-State solution, where Israel and Palestine can live side by side in peace and security.

    Furthermore, we are deeply concerned about the situation in Lebanon. We recall the need for [a cessation of hostilities as soon as possible in order to create space for] a diplomatic solution along the Blue Line, in line with UN Security Council resolution 1701. This is the only way to de-escalate tensions in a sustainable manner, stabilize the border between Israel and Lebanon, fully restore Lebanon’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and stability, and allow displaced citizens to return home safely on both sides of the border. We urge all relevant actors to protect civilian populations. We are also determined to provide humanitarian assistance to Lebanese civilians to meet their urgent needs.

    Furthermore, we offer our sincere condolences to the families of the civilian victims in Israel, Gaza and Lebanon.

    We underline the importance of the United Nations in resolving armed conflicts and mitigating the humanitarian consequences in the Middle East. In this regard, we recognize the role of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) in restoring peace and security. We are determined to strengthen our support to the mission, in accordance with the relevant United Nations resolutions.

    To this end, we will remain in close contact with all stakeholders concerned.

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

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cobertura de la NASA del lanzamiento de Europa Clipper a una luna de Júpiter

    Source: NASA

    Read this release in English here.
    La NASA ofrecerá cobertura en directo, en inglés y en español, de las actividades previas al lanzamiento y del lanzamiento de Europa Clipper, la misión de la agencia para explorar Europa, una luna helada de Júpiter. La cobertura del lanzamiento se ofrecerá también en español. La NASA prevé que el lanzamiento se dé a las 12:31 p.m. EDT (hora del este) del jueves, 10 de octubre, a bordo de un cohete SpaceX Falcon Heavy desde el Complejo de Lanzamiento 39A en el Centro Espacial Kennedy de la NASA en Florida.
    Más allá de la Tierra, Europa, una luna de Júpiter, es considerada uno de los entornos con más potencial para la habitabilidad del sistema solar. Tras un viaje de aproximadamente 1.800 millones de millas (unos 2.900 millones de kilómetros), Europa Clipper entrará en órbita alrededor de Júpiter en abril de 2030. Desde ahí, la nave espacial llevará a cabo un estudio detallado de Europa para determinar si este mundo helado podría presentar condiciones adecuadas para la vida. Europa Clipper es la mayor nave espacial que la NASA ha desarrollado para una misión planetaria. Transporta un conjunto de nueve instrumentos y un experimento gravitatorio, los cuales investigarán un océano bajo la superficie de Europa que los científicos creen que contiene el doble de agua líquida que los océanos de la Tierra.
    Para consultar el calendario de eventos en directo y las plataformas en las que se retransmitirán, visita:
    https://go.nasa.gov/europaclipperlive
    El plazo para la acreditación de los medios de comunicación para la cobertura presencial de este lanzamiento ya finalizó. La política de acreditación de medios de la NASA está disponible en línea (en inglés). Si tienes preguntas sobre la acreditación de los medios de comunicación, envía un correo electrónico a: ksc-media-accreditat@mail.nasa.gov.
    La cobertura de la misión de la NASA es la siguiente (todas las horas son del este y están sujetas a cambios en función de las operaciones a tiempo real):
    Martes, 8 de octubre
    1 p.m. – Entrevistas presenciales, abiertas a los medios de comunicación acreditados para este lanzamiento.
    3:30 p.m. – Sesión informativa científica de Europa Clipper de la NASA con los siguientes participantes:

    Gina DiBraccio, directora en funciones, División de Ciencias Planetarias, Sede de la NASA
    Robert Pappalardo, científico de proyecto, Europa Clipper, Laboratorio de Propulsión a Chorro de la NASA (NASA JPL)
    Haje Korth, científico adjunto de proyecto, Europa Clipper, Laboratorio de Física Aplicada de la Universidad Johns Hopkins
    Cynthia Phillips, científica de proyecto, Europa Clipper, NASA JPL

    La cobertura de la conferencia de prensa científica se retransmitirá en directo en NASA+ y en el sitio web de la agencia, Aprende cómo ver contenidos de la NASA a través de diversas plataformas, incluidas las redes sociales.
    Los representantes de los medios de comunicación podrán formular preguntas tanto presencialmente como por teléfono. El espacio disponible en el auditorio para la participación en persona será limitado. Para obtener el número de teléfono y el código de acceso a la conferencia, los medios de comunicación deberán ponerse en contacto con la sala de prensa de la NASA en Kennedy a más tardar una hora antes del comienzo del acto: ksc-newsroom@mail.nasa.gov.
    Miércoles, 9 de octubre
    2 p.m. – Panel social del NASA Social en el centro Kennedy, con los siguientes participantes:

    Kate Calvin, científica jefe y asesora principal sobre el clima, sede de la NASA
    Caley Burke, analista de diseño de vuelos, Programa de Servicios de Lanzamiento de la NASA
    Erin Leonard, científica del proyecto Europa Clipper, NASA JPL
    Juan Pablo León, ingeniero de banco de pruebas de sistemas, Europa Clipper, NASA JPL (León es hispanohablante)
    Elizabeth Turtle, investigadora principal, instrumento de sistema de imágenes de Europa, Europa Clipper, APL

    Esta mesa redonda se transmitirá en directo a través de las cuentas de la NASA en YouTube, X y Facebook. Los miembros del público pueden hacer preguntas en línea publicando en las transmisiones en vivo de YouTube, X y Facebook o usando el hashtag #AskNASA.
    3:30 p.m. – Conferencia de prensa de la NASA previa al lanzamiento de Europa Clipper (tras la finalización de la revisión del estado de preparación para el lanzamiento), con los siguientes participantes:

    Administrador asociado de la NASA Jim Free
    Sandra Connelly, administradora adjunta, Dirección de Misiones Científicas, Sede de la NASA
    Tim Dunn, director de lanzamiento, Programa de Servicios de Lanzamiento de la NASA
    Julianna Scheiman, directora para misiones científicas de la NASA, SpaceX
    Jordan Evans, gerente de proyecto, Europa Clipper, NASA JPL
    Mike McAleenan, meteorólogo de lanzamiento, 45º Escuadrón Meteorológico, Fuerza Espacial de EE.UU.

    La conferencia de prensa previa al lanzamiento se retransmitirá en directo en NASA+, el sitio web de la agencia, la aplicación de la NASA, y YouTube.
    Los representantes de los medios de comunicación podrán formular preguntas tanto presencialmente como por teléfono. El espacio disponible en el auditorio para la participación en persona será limitado. Para obtener el número de teléfono y el código de acceso a la conferencia, los medios de comunicación deberán ponerse en contacto con la sala de prensa de la NASA en Kennedy a más tardar una hora antes del comienzo del acto: ksc-newsroom@mail.nasa.gov.
    5:30 p.m. – Transmisión del despliegue de Europa Clipper de la NASA a la plataforma de lanzamiento. La retransmisión en vivo (en inglés) estará disponible en NASA+, el sitio web de la agencia, la aplicación de la NASA, y YouTube.
    Jueves, 10 de octubre
    11:30 a.m. – La cobertura en inglés del lanzamiento empezará en NASA+ y el el sitio web de la agencia.
    11:30 a.m. – La cobertura en español del lanzamiento empezará en NASA+ y el canal de YouTube en español de la NASA.
    12:31 p.m. – Lanzamiento.
    Cobertura de audio
    El audio de las conferencias de prensa y de la cobertura del lanzamiento, ambos en inglés, se transmitirá por los circuitos «V» de la NASA, a los que se puede acceder marcando 321-867-1220, -1240 o -7135. El día del lanzamiento, el «audio de la misión», es decir, las actividades de la cuenta atrás sin los comentarios de los medios de NASA+ sobre el lanzamiento, se retransmitirá por el 321-867-7135.
    Cobertura de vídeo en directo previa al lanzamientoLa NASA proporcionará una conexión de vídeo en directo del Complejo de Lanzamiento 39A aproximadamente 18 horas antes del despegue previsto de la misión en el canal de YouTube de la sala de prensa de la NASA en Kennedy. La transmisión será ininterrumpida hasta que comience la emisión del lanzamiento en NASA+.
    Cobertura del lanzamiento en el sitio web de la NASALa cobertura de la misión el día del lanzamiento estará disponible en el sitio web de la agencia. La cobertura incluirá enlaces a retransmisiones en directo (en español e inglés) y actualizaciones del blog que comenzarán no antes de las 10 a.m. del 10 de octubre, a medida que se cumplan los hitos de la cuenta regresiva. Poco después del despegue se podrá acceder a vídeos y fotos del lanzamiento en streaming a demanda.
    Siga la cobertura de la cuenta regresiva en el blog de Europa Clipper (en inglés). Si tiene alguna pregunta sobre la cobertura de la cuenta atrás, póngase en contacto con la sala de prensa Kennedy llamando al 321-867-2468.
    Para obtener información sobre cobertura en español en el Centro Espacial Kennedy o si desea solicitar entrevistas en español, comuníquese con María José Viñas: maria-jose.vinasgarcia@nasa.gov, Antonia Jaramillo: antonia.jaramillobotero@nasa.gov o Messod Bendayan: messod.c.bendayan@nasa.gov
    Asistencia virtual al lanzamiento
    Los miembros del público pueden registrarse para asistir virtualmente a este lanzamiento. El programa de invitados virtuales (en inglés) de la NASA para esta misión también incluye recursos curados de lanzamiento, notificaciones sobre oportunidades o cambios relacionados, y un sello para el pasaporte de invitado virtual de la NASA después del lanzamiento.
    Observación y participación en redes sociales
    Haz que la gente sepa que estás siguiendo la misión en X, Facebook e Instagram utilizando los hashtags #EuropaClipper y #NASASocial. También puedes mantenerte conectado siguiendo y etiquetando estas cuentas:
    X: @NASA, @EuropaClipper, @NASASolarSystem, @NASAJPL, @NASAKennedy, @NASA_LSP, @NASA_ES (en español)
    Facebook: NASA, NASA’s Europa Clipper, NASA’s JPL, NASA’s Launch Services Program, NASA en español
    Instagram: @NASA, @nasasolarsystem, @NASAKennedy, @NASAJPL, @NASA_ES (en español)
    Para más información en español sobre la misión:
    https://ciencia.nasa.gov/europaclipper
    -fin-
    Karen Fox / Molly Wasser/ María José ViñasSede, Washington202-358-1600karen.c.fox@nasa.gov / molly.l.wasser.nasa.gov  / maria-jose.vinasgarcia@nasa.gov
    Leejay LockhartCentro Espacial Kennedy, Florida321-747-8310leejay.lockhart@nasa.gov

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Translation: Statement by G7 Leaders on Recent Developments in the Middle East.

    MIL OSI Translation. Government of the Republic of France statements from French to English –

    We, the G7 leaders, express our deep concern at the deteriorating situation in the Middle East and strongly condemn Iran’s direct military attack on Israel, which poses a serious threat to regional stability.

    We unequivocally reiterate our commitment to Israel’s security. Iran’s deeply destabilizing actions throughout the Middle East, through terrorist proxies and armed groups – including the Houthis, Hezbollah, and Hamas – as well as Iran-aligned militias in Iraq, must cease. Yesterday, we discussed coordinated efforts and actions to prevent escalation in the region.

    A dangerous cycle of attacks and retaliation risks fueling an uncontrollable escalation in the Middle East, which is in no one’s interest. We therefore call on all regional actors to act responsibly and with restraint. We encourage all parties to engage constructively to de-escalate current tensions. International humanitarian law must be respected.

    On the eve of the tragic anniversary of the Hamas attacks of October 7, 2023, we once again condemn in the strongest terms these acts of deliberate and unjustified violence and remain in solidarity with the families of the victims and the Hamas hostages.

    We also reiterate our call for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, the unconditional release of all hostages, a significant and sustained increase in humanitarian assistance, and an end to the conflict. We fully support the efforts of the United States, Qatar, and Egypt to reach a comprehensive agreement, in line with United Nations Security Council Resolution 2735. The situation in Gaza is dire, with tens of thousands of innocent lives lost. We reiterate the absolute imperative to protect the civilian population. For this, full, rapid, safe, and unhindered humanitarian access is a top priority. We will continue to work to establish the conditions for a lasting peace, leading to a two-state solution, where Israel and Palestine coexist side by side in peace and security.

    We are also deeply concerned about the situation in Lebanon. We reiterate the need for a cessation of hostilities as soon as possible to create the conditions for a diplomatic solution along the Blue Line, in line with United Nations Security Council resolution 1701. This is the only way to sustainably de-escalate tensions, stabilize the border between Israel and Lebanon, fully restore the sovereignty, territorial integrity and stability of Lebanon, and allow the return of displaced citizens to their homes in safety, on both sides. We urge all actors to protect civilian populations. We commit to providing humanitarian assistance to address the urgent needs of civilians in Lebanon.

    We also express our sincere condolences to the families of the civilian victims in Israel, Gaza and Lebanon.

    We underline the importance of the United Nations in resolving armed conflicts and mitigating the humanitarian impact in the Middle East. In this regard, we recognize the role of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) in restoring peace and security. We commit to strengthening our support to the mission, in line with the relevant United Nations resolutions.

    We will continue to stay in close contact with all stakeholders to this end.

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

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI Translation: Disappearance of Victor Perahia.

    MIL OSI Translation. Government of the Republic of France statements from French to English –

    With the death of Victor Perahia, President of the Union of Auschwitz Deportees, France has lost a transmitter of memory, one of the faces of the remembrance of the Shoah for the Nation.

    Born on April 4, 1933, Victor Perahia was born into a family of street vendors. From his childhood, and then during the Occupation, the child of a father of Turkish origin and a French mother was confronted with the anti-Semitism of his classmates. On July 15, 1942, in Saint-Nazaire, Victor and his parents were arrested by the SS, then taken to Angers. From there, his father was deported to Auschwitz; Victor Perahia and his mother to Drancy. In the camp, overcrowded by the simultaneous arrival of prisoners from the Vél’ d’Hiv roundup of July 16, they survived hunger, violence and cold, and avoided deportation thanks to his mother’s cunning. The latter in fact claimed to be a prisoner of war’s wife and demonstrated this by tirelessly reciting the story of a life that was not hers. On May 20, 1944, they were deported to the Bergen-Belsen concentration and labor camp where, for a year, Victor Perahia accompanied his mother in the tragedy, with a life force that made him certain he would survive. On April 22, 1945, this time, bloodless, suffering from typhus, Victor Perahia felt his strength leave him: “Victor, if you love me, don’t die,” his mother told him. The next day, the camp was liberated by the Russian army. Orphaned by his father Robert and in mourning for his maternal grandfather, who died at Auschwitz, still ill, the young survivor spent two years in a sanatorium.

    Victor Perahia rebuilt his life after the war by resuming his studies, starting a family with his wife Rosette, leaving this “stolen childhood” to silence and oblivion for decades, according to the book he would finally publish in 2015. This book, the fruit of six years of writing, was the first milestone in a work of memory and transmission that Victor Perahia continued, by testifying for the younger generations in the schools of Paris or at the Shoah memorial. With his humanity, his uncompromising words, his lively knowledge of the Drancy camp, he transmitted his experience of deportation. In Drancy, he recounted, at the sight of the buildings, cars, buses seen through the barbed wire, he asked himself “but why am I behind barbed wire, guarded by police, while these people far away can go home”. This childish question, this universal cry of conscience, this intransigence in the face of racism and anti-Semitism still haunted him and guided his strength to awaken minds. As a lesson or testament for future generations, he considered “human cruelty” to be limitless, and the duty to fight against “all forms of intolerance and all attacks on basic human rights” to be imprescriptible.

    The President of the Republic and his wife bow before a life guided by the will to never cease believing in humanity, in the hope of justice and freedom. They address to his family, to his loved ones, to the women and men who, like him, bear the memory of the Shoah, their heartfelt condolences.

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

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Government of Canada Advances Small Modular Reactor Research and Development With $13.6-Million Investment

    Source: Government of Canada News

    News release

    October 3, 2024                                    Ottawa, Ontario                                                Natural Resources Canada

    As Canada continues to move toward a low-carbon economy, many forms of clean energy are needed to power the growing demand for affordable and reliable electricity. These include nuclear energy, which is non-emitting, consistent and safe.

    Today, Julie Dabrusin, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Environment and Climate Change and to the Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, on behalf of the Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, announced funding of $13.6 million from National Resources Canada’s Enabling Small Modular Reactors (SMR) Program for nine research projects to promote the safe, commercial development of SMRs to contribute to our low-carbon economy and help fight climate change. The projects are:

    • $935,542 to Queen’s University in Kingston, Ontario, to study fuel dry storage and to conduct a techno-gap / life-cycle assessment to enable the effective deployment of SMRs.
    • $2,131,000 to Chemetics in Pickering, Ontario, to support the research and development of SMR fabrication. This project will enable Chemetics to develop, test and qualify new fabrication technologies for SMR components.
    • $2,750,000 to Prodigy Clean Energy Ltd in Montreal, Quebec, to support research and development to enable transportable nuclear power plants as part of the SMR supply chain.
    • $3,750,000 to the Nuclear Waste Management Organization in Toronto, Ontario, to enhance the compatibility of the NWMO’s current Adaptive Phased Management program with the upcoming deployment of SMRs.
    • $261,535 to Calian Ltd. in Ottawa, Ontario, to provide a guidance document to SMR vendors and planned owners or operators in Canada that outlines the characterization of radiological elements in building materials for the construction of new SMR facilities.
    • $543,000 to the Organization of Canadian Nuclear Industries in Pickering, Ontario, to develop a National Ready4SMR program to identify procurement risks due to technological gaps in Canada’s SMR projects and subsequently develop supply strategies for at-risk parts and components.
    • $126,475 to Kinectrics in Etobicoke, Ontario, to investigate the feasibility of disposing the isotope carbon-14 by recovering it from radioactive wastes and to engage with stakeholders to identify a route to divert waste streams from disposal.
    • $2,070,336 to North Shore Mi’kmaq Tribal Council in Eel Ground, New Brunswick, to study and develop robust supply chains in Canada for SMR manufacturing while anchoring elements in New Brunswick with First Nations ownership.
    • $1,094,850 to Opportunities New Brunswick in Fredericton, New Brunswick, to provide a research and development life-cycle framework and roadmap for the manufacturing of cost-effective modularized SMR technology to enhance the development and deployment of SMRs within Canada.

    As Canada advances toward a net-zero future, investments like these are key to reducing emissions, maximizing energy performance and industry competitiveness. These investments support workers and industry in building a more prosperous and sustainable future. With over 70,000 hard-working Canadians employed across its supply chain, Canada’s nuclear industry is well positioned to leverage its science and technology innovation to become a leader in the development and deployment of small modular reactor technology.

    Quotes

    “Developing next-generation nuclear technologies, like small modular reactors, will be essential as Canada faces growing energy demands and is called upon to export our clean technologies to partners around the world. Our nuclear sector is poised to be a leader in an emerging global SMR market that some estimate to be worth up to $150 billion a year by 2040.”

    Julie Dabrusin
    Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Energy and Natural Resources and to the Minister of Environment and Climate Change

    Quick facts

    • Budget 2022 allocated $29.6 million to NRCan over four years for research and development to support the conditions and frameworks necessary for SMRs to displace fossil fuels and contribute to climate change mitigation.

    • NRCan introduced the Enabling Small Modular Reactors Program in 2023 to support the development of supply chains for SMR manufacturing and fuel and to fund research on SMR waste management solutions to ensure that SMRs and the waste they generate can be safely managed, now and into the future.

    • The Enabling SMR Program has announced $3.5 million to date for projects being led by the Canadian Standards Association, the University of Alberta and the University of Regina.

    Related products

    Contacts

    Natural Resources Canada
    Media Relations
    343-292-6100
    media@nrcan-rncan.gc.ca

    Cindy Caturao
    Press Secretary
    Office of the Minister of Energy and Natural Resources
    613-795-5638
    cindy.caturao@nrcan-rncan.gc.ca

    Follow us on LinkedIn

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Translation: Trip to Berlin as part of the Global Dialogue.

    MIL OSI Translation. Government of the Republic of France statements from French to English –

    President Emmanuel Macron visited Berlin this Wednesday for the Berlin Global Dialogue.

    During this new trip to Germany, the 4th since the beginning of the year, the Head of State spoke with Olaf Scholz, Chancellor of the Federal Republic of Germany, with whom he discussed issues related to the European agenda and international news.

    On the site of the European School of Management and Technology, which is hosting this second edition of the Berlin Global Dialogue, the President of the Republic spoke with stakeholders in artificial intelligence following up on the work initiated at the Fraunhofer Institute during the state visit to Germany last May.

    He also spoke in plenary session on the challenges of European competitiveness and the place of the European Union in a multipolar world.

    Review your speech:

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

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI Translation: Proposal for the appointment of Ms Catherine Paugam-Burtz as Director General of the ANSM.

    MIL OSI Translation. Government of the Republic of France statements from French to English –

    The President of the Republic is considering, on the proposal of the Prime Minister, appointing Ms Catherine Paugam-Burtz as Director General of the National Agency for the Safety of Medicines and Health Products.

    The President of the National Assembly and the President of the Senate are notified of this draft appointment, so that the relevant committee of each of the assemblies can decide under the conditions provided for in the fifth paragraph of Article 13 of the Constitution.

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

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Seizure of contraband and unauthorized items at Matsqui Institution 

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    On October 1, 2024, as a result of the vigilance of staff members, a package containing contraband and unauthorized items was seized at Matsqui Institution, a medium-security federal institution.

    October 3, 2024 – Abbotsford, British Columbia – Correctional Service Canada

    On October 1, 2024, as a result of the vigilance of staff members, a package containing contraband and unauthorized items was seized at Matsqui Institution, a medium-security federal institution.

    The items seized included crystal methamphetamine, tobacco, two cell phones and chargers, four USB keys and a SIM card. The total estimated institutional value of these seizures is $73,000.

    The police have been notified, and the institution is investigating.

    The Correctional Service of Canada (CSC) uses a number of tools to prevent drugs from entering its institutions. These tools include ion scanners and drug-detector dogs to search buildings, personal property, inmates, and visitors.

    CSC is heightening measures to prevent contraband from entering its institutions in order to help ensure a safe and secure environment for everyone. CSC also works in partnership with the police to take action against those who attempt to introduce contraband into correctional institutions.

    CSC has also set up a telephone tip line for all federal institutions so that it may receive additional information about activities relating to security at CSC institutions. These activities may be related to drug use or trafficking that may threaten the safety and security of visitors, inmates, and staff members working at CSC institutions.

    The toll-free number, 1‑866‑780‑3784, helps ensure that the information shared is protected and that callers remain anonymous.

    -30-

    Amrit Hothi
    Assistant Warden Management Services
    Matsqui Institution
    604-850-8205

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tonko Heralds Alzheimer’s Legislation Signed into Law

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Paul Tonko (Capital Region New York)

    WASHINGTON, DC — Congressman Paul D. Tonko (NY-20) celebrated President Biden signing into law his National Alzheimer’s Project Act (NAPA) Reauthorization Act, bipartisan legislation he authored that reauthorizes the National Alzheimer’s Project Act through 2035 to provide a roadmap for federal efforts in responding to Alzheimer’s and other dementias, as well as the Alzheimer’s Accountability and Investment Act that ensures scientists speak directly to Congress on resources they need to effectively treat the disease.

    “This action marks a major step in tackling Alzheimer’s and delivering a needed dose of hope to those living with this devastating disease and their loved ones,” Congressman Tonko said. “During my first term in Congress, I joined my colleagues in advancing the National Alzheimer’s Project Act (NAPA) to provide a roadmap for federal efforts in responding to Alzheimer’s and other dementias. Now, after a decade of successful implementation of that law, and with its expiration in 2025 looming, I was honored to lead the push to reauthorize this pivotal legislation. The enactment of the NAPA Reauthorization Act and Alzheimer’s Accountability and Investment Act will equip us with the tools and resources necessary to address Alzheimer’s and ease the heavy burden on patients and their families. I’m thankful to my colleagues and the numerous local, state, and national organizations who stood with me to get this legislation across the finish line.”

    From the beginning of his time in Congress, Tonko has championed the push to address Alzheimer’s and related dementias. Ever since he introduced this legislation last year, Tonko has pushed for the passage of these bills, first through House Committee and later to the Floor, where they were advanced just last week.

    “Congressman Paul Tonko is a longstanding champion for the 426,500 New Yorkers living with Alzheimer’s and their caregivers,” said Beth Smith-Boivin, executive director of the Alzheimer’s Association, Northeastern New York Chapter. “From holding roundtable discussions to attending our local Walk to End Alzheimer’s, Congressman Tonko has sat with and listened to the stories from local families impacted by this devastating disease. But his tireless efforts in Congress to advance these bipartisan bills across the finish line not only impacts individuals in his district, but throughout New York State and across the nation. These bills show that our nation is committed to a future in which everyone in all communities will have access to prevention, early detection, treatment, care, and ultimately, cures. We are so grateful to have Congressman Tonko as a powerful and compassionate advocate for our cause.”

    Also advanced in the House last month and awaiting action in the Senate is the Building Our Largest Dementia (BOLD) Infrastructure for Alzheimer’s Reauthorization Act, which Tonko co-leads. The bill drives public health research, early detection infrastructure, and support for caregivers. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NASA Sets Coverage for Europa Clipper Launch to Jupiter Moon

    Source: NASA

    Lee esta nota de prensa en español aquí.
    NASA will provide live coverage of prelaunch and launch activities for Europa Clipper, the agency’s mission to explore Jupiter’s icy moon Europa. NASA is targeting launch at 12:31 p.m. EDT Thursday, Oct. 10, on a SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket from Launch Complex 39A at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida.
    Beyond Earth, Jupiter’s moon Europa is considered one of the solar system’s most promising potentially habitable environments. After an approximately 1.8-billion-mile journey, Europa Clipper will enter orbit around Jupiter in April 2030, where the spacecraft will conduct a detailed survey of Europa to determine whether the icy world could have conditions suitable for life. Europa Clipper is the largest spacecraft NASA has ever developed for a planetary mission. It carries a suite of nine instruments along with a gravity experiment that will investigate an ocean beneath Europa’s surface, which scientists believe contains twice as much liquid water as Earth’s oceans.
    For a schedule of live events and the platforms they’ll stream on, visit:
    https://go.nasa.gov/europaclipperlive
    The deadline for media accreditation for in-person coverage of this launch has passed. NASA’s media credentialing policy is available online. For questions about media accreditation, please email: ksc-media-accreditat@mail.nasa.gov.
    NASA’s mission coverage is as follows (all times Eastern and subject to change based on real-time operations):
    Tuesday, Oct. 8
    1 p.m. – In-person, one-on-one interviews, open to media credentialed for this launch.
    3:30 p.m. – NASA’s Europa Clipper science briefing with the following participants:

    Gina DiBraccio, acting director, Planetary Science Division, NASA Headquarters
    Robert Pappalardo, project scientist, Europa Clipper, NASA JPL
    Haje Korth, deputy project scientist, Europa Clipper, Applied Physics Laboratory (APL)
    Cynthia Phillips, project staff scientist, Europa Clipper, NASA JPL

    Coverage of the science news conference will stream live on NASA+ and the agency’s website, Learn how to stream NASA content through a variety of platforms, including social media.
    Media may ask questions in person and via phone. Limited auditorium space will be available for in-person participation. For the dial-in number and passcode, media should contact the NASA Kennedy newsroom no later than one hour before the start of the event at: ksc-newsroom@mail.nasa.gov.
    Wednesday, Oct. 9
    2 p.m. – NASA Social panel at NASA Kennedy with the following participants:

    Kate Calvin, chief scientist and senior climate advisor, NASA Headquarters
    Caley Burke, Flight Design Analyst, NASA’s Launch Services Program
    Erin Leonard, project staff scientist, Europa Clipper, NASA JPL
    Juan Pablo León, systems testbed engineer, Europa Clipper, NASA JPL
    Elizabeth Turtle, principal investigator, Europa Imaging System instrument, Europa Clipper, APL

    The panel will stream live on NASA Kennedy’s YouTube, X, and Facebook accounts. Members of the public may ask questions online by posting to the YouTube, X, and Facebook live streams or using #AskNASA.
    3:30 p.m. – NASA’s Europa Clipper prelaunch news conference (following completion of the Launch Readiness Review), with the following participants:

    NASA Associate Administrator Jim Free
    Sandra Connelly, deputy associate administrator, Science Mission Directorate, NASA Headquarters
    Tim Dunn, launch director, NASA’s Launch Services Program
    Julianna Scheiman, director, NASA Science Missions, SpaceX
    Jordan Evans, project manager, Europa Clipper, NASA JPL
    Mike McAleenan, launch weather officer, 45th Weather Squadron, U.S. Space Force

    Coverage of the prelaunch news conference will stream live on NASA+, the agency’s website, the NASA app, and YouTube.
    Media may ask questions in person and via phone. Limited auditorium space will be available for in-person participation. For the dial-in number and passcode, media should contact the NASA Kennedy newsroom no later than one hour before the start of the event at ksc-newsroom@mail.nasa.gov.
    5:30 p.m. – NASA’s Europa Clipper rollout show. Coverage will stream live on NASA+, the agency’s website, the NASA app, and YouTube.
    Thursday, Oct. 10
    11:30 a.m. – NASA launch coverage in English begins on NASA+ and the agency’s website.
    11:30 a.m. – NASA launch coverage in Spanish begins on NASA+, the agency’s website and NASA’s Spanish YouTube channel.
    12:31 p.m. – Launch
    Audio Only Coverage
    Audio only of the news conferences and launch coverage will be carried on the NASA “V” circuits, which may be accessed by dialing 321-867-1220, -1240 or -7135. On launch day, “mission audio,” countdown activities without NASA+ media launch commentary, is carried on 321-867-7135.
    Live Video Coverage Prior to Launch
    NASA will provide a live video feed of Launch Complex 39A approximately 18 hours prior to the planned liftoff of the mission on the NASA Kennedy newsroom YouTube channel. The feed will be uninterrupted until the launch broadcast begins on NASA+.
    NASA Website Launch Coverage
    Launch day coverage of the mission will be available on the agency’s website. Coverage will include links to live streaming and blog updates beginning no earlier than 10 a.m., Oct. 10, as the countdown milestones occur. On-demand streaming video and photos of the launch will be available shortly after liftoff.
    Follow countdown coverage on the Europa Clipper blog. For questions about countdown coverage, contact the Kennedy newsroom at 321-867-2468.
    Para obtener información sobre cobertura en español en el Centro Espacial Kennedy o si desea solicitar entrevistas en español, comuníquese con Antonia Jaramillo: antonia.jaramillobotero@nasa.gov o Messod Bendayan: messod.c.bendayan@nasa.gov
    Attend the Launch Virtually
    Members of the public can register to attend this launch virtually. NASA’s virtual guest program for this mission also includes curated launch resources, notifications about related opportunities or changes, and a stamp for the NASA virtual guest passport following launch.
    Watch, Engage on Social Media
    Let people know you’re following the mission on X, Facebook, and Instagram by using the hashtags #EuropaClipper and #NASASocial. You can also stay connected by following and tagging these accounts:
    X: @NASA, @EuropaClipper, @NASASolarSystem, @NASAJPL, @NASAKennedy, @NASA_LSP 
    Facebook: NASA, NASA’s Europa Clipper, NASA’s JPL, NASA’s Launch Services Program
    Instagram: @NASA, @nasasolarsystem, @NASAKennedy, @NASAJPL
    For more information about the mission, visit:
    https://science.nasa.gov/mission/europa-clipper
    -end-
    Karen Fox / Molly WasserHeadquarters, Washington202-358-1600karen.c.fox@nasa.gov / molly.l.wasser.nasa.gov  
    Leejay LockhartKennedy Space Center, Florida321-747-8310leejay.lockhart@nasa.gov

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Rosendale Sends Letter to Tracy Stone-Manning Objecting to Her Ineffective Western Solar Plan

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

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Matt Rosendale (MT-02) sent a letter to the Director of the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Tracy Stone-Manning objecting to the BLM’s proposed Western Solar Plan. The plan would lock up 572,479 acres of public land in Montana for solar development despite solar having been proven to be inefficient and unreliable due to the sparse sunlight during winter months.

    You can read the full letter HERE.

    “BLM’s Western Solar Plan must be halted immediately, solar energy has proven to be ineffective time and time again,” said Rep. Rosendale. “The completion of this project will restrict Montanans’ access to thousands of acres of public land, which should instead be set aside for recreation, grazing, and tourism, which are vital to our state’s economy and citizens’ livelihood. Instead of pushing her radical green agenda on our state, Director Stone-Manning should work on approving the current backlog of coal leases, which would give us reliable energy and create good-paying jobs.”  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: The company Avjet Holding inc. fined $200,000 for violating the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999

    Source: Government of Canada News

    On October 1, 2024, Avjet Holding inc., a company specializing in aviation fuel distribution, was fined $200,000 by the Court of Québec.

    October 3, 2024 – Sept-Îles, Quebec

    Canadians know the value of a healthy and safe environment. Environment and Climate Change Canada enforcement officers strive to ensure that businesses and individuals comply with laws and regulations that protect Canada’s natural environment.

    On October 1, 2024, Avjet Holding inc., a company specializing in aviation fuel distribution, was fined $200,000 by the Court of Québec. The company pleaded guilty to one count of violating the Storage Tank Systems for Petroleum Products and Allied Petroleum Products Regulations under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999. The conviction is the result of a petroleum product spill that occurred between January 17 and 18, 2023. The fine will be directed to the Government of Canada’s Environmental Damages Fund to support projects that have a positive impact on Canada’s natural environment.

    Environment and Climate Change Canada enforcement officers launched an investigation after being informed of a petroleum product spill at the Natashquan Airport in Quebec. The investigation proved that while delivering fuel, a quantity of approximately 4,900 litres of the product was spilled into the environment. Two valves left open by an Avjet Holding inc. employee, as well as another defective valve in the storage system’s filling cabinet, were the cause of the release.

    Releasing a petroleum product into the environment as a result of a leak in, or spill from, a tank is an offence under the Storage Tank Systems for Petroleum Products and Allied Petroleum Products Regulations under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999.

    As a result of this conviction, the company’s name will be added to the Environmental Offenders Registry. The Registry contains information on convictions of corporations registered for offences committed under federal environmental laws.

    Environment and Climate Change Canada has created a free subscription service to help Canadians stay current with what the Government of Canada is doing to protect the natural environment.

    Media Relations
    Environment and Climate Change Canada
    819-938-3338 or 1-844-836-7799 (toll-free)
    media@ec.gc.ca

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Everything Vindman is not

    Source: US National Republican Congressional Committee

    The following text contains opinion that is not, or not necessarily, that of MIL-OSI –

    October 3, 2024

    Green Beret combat veteran Derrick Anderson has told the truth about his military service, but Eugene Vindman has not.

    ❌ He says he is a Colonel – He is not.

    ❌ He says he used weapons on the battlefield – He did not.

    ❌ He says he received the Meritorious Service Medal – He did not.

    “Eugene Vindman’s campaign is built on lies. He consistently lies about his military service and he refuses to apologize for it, even when called out for misleading Virginians.” — NRCC Spokeswoman Delanie Bomar

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Supporting clean tech innovation in First Nations communities

    Source: Government of Canada News

    Federal investment helps develop cleaner energy systems in Atlantic Canada  

    October 3, 2024 · Lennox Island, Prince Edward Island · Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA)

    Every day, Indigenous communities and their members across Atlantic Canada are forging a path of sustainability and opportunity. In Epekwitk (Prince Edward Island), a collaborative approach between business, academia, and community is helping to fuel innovation in the renewable energy space. The Government of Canada is working with Indigenous communities and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to maximize their assets, capitalize on economic opportunities, and contribute to the prosperity of Indigenous Peoples across Atlantic Canada.

    Supporting Indigenous business leadership

    Today, Bobby Morrissey, Member of Parliament for Egmont, announced a non-repayable contribution of $100,000 to L’nu Energy Inc. to support the purchase of equipment to expand its services to Indigenous communities. The investment will help the company better serve its clients, from concept to completion, with the development, management, and optimization of renewable energy microgrid systems.

    The announcement was made on behalf of the Honourable Gudie Hutchings, Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for ACOA.

    Climate change has challenged all communities to rethink their design and approach to long term growth. Today’s announcement demonstrates how the Government of Canada continues to leverage its programs to advance the transition to net zero through support for Indigenous business leaders, and the development of collaborative ecosystems to scale-up more clean technology companies. ​ 

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Letter to DOJ Highlights Concerns Over Non-Citizens Participating in Federal Elections

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND)

    BISMARCK, N.D. – As concerns grow over non-citizens registering to vote and voting in federal elections, reports in Virginia and Texas claim thousands of non-citizens were found on voter rolls. U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND) joined U.S. Senator Bill Hagerty (R-TN) in a bicameral letter to Attorney General Merrick Garland, asking for stricter enforcement of federal laws prohibiting non-citizens from registering to vote or voting in federal elections.

    The letter reiterates a previous request for the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) to provide details on enforcement actions taken since January 2021, including statistics on prosecutions and referrals related to non-citizen voting. It also demands accountability and immediate action to protect public confidence in the electoral process.

    “Given that the 2024 Presidential Election is in less than 36 days, your Department’s inaction and refusal to provide any information regarding its efforts to promote public trust and confidence in our elections is especially alarming,” wrote the senators. “Clearly, there is a non-negligible amount of voter participation by non-citizens in federal elections, which is not only a serious threat to the integrity of our elections and the democratic process they represent, but also has the potential to reduce Americans’ trust and confidence in election results.” 

    Throughout his time in the Senate, Cramer has advocated for policies to restore the integrity of the U.S. immigration system and electoral process. He was the first original cosponsor of U.S. Senator Mike Lee’s (R-UT) Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act, which requires proof of U.S. citizenship when registering to vote in federal elections. Cramer also cosponsored Hagerty’s Equal Representation Act, which prohibits the counting of non-citizens in congressional and Electoral College apportionment.

    Click here for the letter.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: DOJ Charges Ten Pharmaceutical Distributors Affiliated with Unlawful Sales of Over 70M Opioid Pills

    Source: United States Department of Justice (video statements)

    Today, the Department is announcing charges against 10 individuals affiliated with pharmaceutical distributors alleged to have funneled nearly 70 million opioid pills and 30 million doses of other commonly abused prescription drugs to “pill-mill” pharmacies, mostly in the Houston, Texas area. These drugs had an estimated street value of over $1.3 billion.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KWkw6dDQ5mk

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Is big tech harming society? To find out, we need research – but it’s being manipulated by big tech itself

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Timothy Graham, Associate Professor in Digital Media, Queensland University of Technology

    AlexandraPopova/Shutterstock

    For almost a decade, researchers have been gathering evidence that the social media platform Facebook disproportionately amplifies low-quality content and misinformation.

    So it was something of a surprise when in 2023 the journal Science published a study that found Facebook’s algorithms were not major drivers of misinformation during the 2020 United States election.

    This study was funded by Facebook’s parent company, Meta. Several Meta employees were also part of the authorship team. It attracted extensive media coverage. It was also celebrated by Meta’s president of global affairs, Nick Clegg, who said it showed the company’s algorithms have “no detectable impact on polarisation, political attitudes or beliefs”.

    But the findings have recently been thrown into doubt by a team of researchers led by Chhandak Bagch from the University of Massachusetts Amherst. In an eLetter also published in Science, they argue the results were likely due to Facebook tinkering with the algorithm while the study was being conducted.

    In a response eLetter, the authors of the original study acknowledge their results “might have been different” if Facebook had changed its algorithm in a different way. But they insist their results still hold true.

    The whole debacle highlights the problems caused by big tech funding and facilitating research into their own products. It also highlights the crucial need for greater independent oversight of social media platforms.

    Merchants of doubt

    Big tech has started investing heavily in academic research into its products. It has also been investing heavily in universities more generally. For example, Meta and its chief Mark Zuckerberg have collectively donated hundreds of millions of dollars to more than 100 colleges and universities across the United States.

    This is similar to what big tobacco once did.

    In the mid-1950s, cigarette companies launched a coordinated campaign to manufacture doubt about the growing body of evidence which linked smoking with a number of serious health issues, such as cancer. It was not about falsifying or manipulating research explicitly, but selectively funding studies and bringing to attention inconclusive results.

    This helped foster a narrative that there was no definitive proof smoking causes cancer. In turn, this enabled tobacco companies to keep up a public image of responsibility and “goodwill” well into the 1990s.

    Big tobacco ran a campaign to manufacture doubt about the health effects of smoking.
    Ralf Liebhold/Shutterstock

    A positive spin

    The Meta-funded study published in Science in 2023 claimed Facebook’s news feed algorithm reduced user exposure to untrustworthy news content. The authors said “Meta did not have the right to prepublication approval”, but acknowledged that The Facebook Open Research and Transparency team “provided substantial support in executing the overall project”.

    The study used an experimental design where participants – Facebook users – were randomly allocated into a control group or treatment group.

    The control group continued to use Facebook’s algorithmic news feed, while the treatment group was given a news feed with content presented in reverse chronological order. The study sought to compare the effects of these two types of news feeds on users’ exposure to potentially false and misleading information from untrustworthy news sources.

    The experiment was robust and well designed. But during the short time it was conducted, Meta changed its news feed algorithm to boost more reliable news content. In doing so, it changed the control condition of the experiment.

    The reduction in exposure to misinformation reported in the original study was likely due to the algorithmic changes. But these changes were temporary: a few months later in March 2021, Meta reverted the news feed algorithm back to the original.

    In a statement to Science about the controversy, Meta said it made the changes clear to researchers at the time, and that it stands by Clegg’s statements about the findings in the paper.

    Unprecedented power

    In downplaying the role of algorithmic content curation for issues such as misinformation and political polarisation, the study became a beacon for sowing doubt and uncertainty about the harmful influence of social media algorithms.

    To be clear, I am not suggesting the researchers who conducted the original 2023 study misled the public. The real problem is that social media companies not only control researchers’ access to data, but can also manipulate their systems in a way that affects the findings of the studies they fund.

    What’s more, social media companies have the power to promote certain studies on the very platform the studies are about. In turn, this helps shape public opinion. It can create a scenario where scepticism and doubt about the impacts of algorithms can become normalised – or where people simply start to tune out.

    This kind of power is unprecedented. Even big tobacco could not control the public’s perception of itself so directly.

    All of this underscores why platforms should be mandated to provide both large-scale data access and real-time updates about changes to their algorithmic systems.

    When platforms control access to the “product”, they also control the science around its impacts. Ultimately, these self-research funding models allow platforms to put profit before people – and divert attention away from the need for more transparency and independent oversight.

    Timothy Graham receives funding from the Australian Research Council (ARC) for his Discovery Early Career Researcher Award, ‘Combatting Coordinated Inauthentic Behaviour on Social Media’. He also receives ARC funding for the Discovery Project, ‘Understanding and combatting “Dark Political Communication”‘ (2024–2027).

    – ref. Is big tech harming society? To find out, we need research – but it’s being manipulated by big tech itself – https://theconversation.com/is-big-tech-harming-society-to-find-out-we-need-research-but-its-being-manipulated-by-big-tech-itself-240110

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Auckland overnight motorway closures 6 – 11 October 2024

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi advises of the following closures for motorway improvements. Work delayed by bad weather will be completed at the next available date, prior to Friday, 11 October 2024.

    Please note this traffic bulletin is updated every Friday.

    Daily updated closure information(external link)(external link)

    Unless otherwise stated, closures start at 9pm and finish at 5am. Traffic management may be in place before the advertised closure times for the mainline.   

    NORTHERN MOTORWAY (SH1)

    • Southbound lanes between Constellation Drive off-ramp and Northcote Road on-ramp, 10 October (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)
      • Constellation Drive southbound on-ramp, 10 October
      • Tristram Avenue southbound on-ramp, 10 October
    • Southbound lanes between Northcote Road off-ramp and Onewa Road on-ramp, 9 October (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)
      • Northcote Road southbound on-ramp, 9 October
      • Esmonde Road southbound on-ramp, 9 October
    • Stafford Road northbound off-ramp, 6-8 October
    • Curran Street northbound on-ramp, 6-8 October

    CENTRAL MOTORWAY JUNCTION (CMJ)

    • None planned

    SOUTHERN MOTORWAY (SH1)

    • Khyber Pass Road southbound on-ramp, 9-10 October
    • Southbound lanes between Greenlane off-ramp and Mt Wellington Highway on-ramp, 6-7 October (approx. 10:30pm to 5:00am)
      • Greenlane southbound on-ramp, 6-7 October
      • Tecoma Street southbound on-ramp, 6-7 October
      • Ellerslie-Panmure Highway southbound on-ramp, 6-7 October
      • Ellerslie-Panmure Highway northbound on-ramp, 6-7 October 
    • Southbound lanes between Mt Wellington Highway off-ramp and East Tamaki Road on-ramp, 8 October (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)
      • Mt Wellington Highway southbound on-ramp, 8 October
      • Princes Street southbound on-ramp, 8 October
      • Highbrook Drive southbound on-ramp, 8 October
    • Manukau northbound off-ramp, 6 October
    • Southbound lanes between Takanini off-ramp and Papakura on-ramp, 6-8 October (approx. 9:30pm to 5:30am)
      • Takanini southbound on-ramp, 6-8 October (approx. 9:30pm to 5:30am)
      • Papakura (Loop) southbound on-ramp, 6-7 October (approx. 9:30pm to 5:30am)
    • Southbound lanes between Takanini off-ramp and Drury/SH22 on-ramp, 9-10 October (approx. 9:30pm to 5:30am)
      • Takanini southbound on-ramp, 9-10 October (approx. 9:30pm to 5:30am)
      • Papakura (Loop) southbound on-ramp, 9-10 October (approx. 9:30pm to 5:30am)
      • Papakura (Diamond) southbound on-ramp, 9-10 October (approx. 9:30pm to 5:30am)
    • Papakura northbound off-ramp, 6-7 October
    • Northbound lanes between Drury/SH22 off-ramp and Papakura on-ramp, 9-10 October
      • Drury northbound on-ramp, 9-10 October

    NORTHWESTERN MOTORWAY (SH16)

    • Southbound lanes between Waimauku Roundabout and Trigg Road, 6-10 October (approx. 8:00pm to 5:00am)
    • Northbound lanes between Foster Road and Waimauku Roundabout, 6-10 October (approx. 8:00pm to 5:00am)

    UPPER HARBOUR MOTORWAY (SH18)

    • None planned

    SOUTHWESTERN MOTORWAY (SH20)

    • Dominion Road northbound off-ramp, 6-10 October
    • Walmsley Road southbound off-ramp, 10 October
    • Southbound lanes between Puhinui Road off-ramp and SH1 links, 7-10 October (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)
      • Puhinui Road southbound on-ramp, 7-10 October
      • Cavendish Drive southbound on-ramp, 7-10 October
      • Lambie Drive southbound on-ramp, 7-10 October
      • SH20 southbound to SH1 northbound link, 7-10 October (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)
      • SH20 southbound to SH1 southbound link, 7-10 October (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)

    GEORGE BOLT MEMORIAL DRIVE (SH20A)

    • None planned

    PUHINUI ROAD (SH20B)

    • None planned

    STATE HIGHWAY 22 (SH22)

    • None planned

    STATE HIGHWAY 2 (SH2)

    • None planned

    Please follow the signposted detours. NZ Transport Agency thanks you for your co-operation during these essential improvements and maintenance.

    Current overnight closure information(external link)(external link)

    Auckland roads and public transport(external link)

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Waikato/Bay of Plenty state highway works October 2024

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    The 2024/25 summer maintenance programme is well underway with active worksites across the region.

    In the BOP, crews are aiming to complete 110 single lane kilometres of maintenance this season with work well underway on SH30 in Central Rotorua, SH2 near Pongakawa and SH34 near Kawerau. On SH2 North of Tauranga at Te Puna, work has already been completed. 

    In the Waikato, work on SH1 Tīrau to Waiouru acceleration programme continues with another 110 single lane kilometres also to complete across the region aiming to give drivers safer, smoother journeys, and to keep our highways in good condition. 

    Starting on Sunday for 4 nights on SH2 north of Tauranga, crews will be resurfacing 5 sites between the Pahoia and the Wairoa Bridge. Crews are starting at Clarke Road, then moving north to Barrett Road, Francis Road and finishing at the most northern worksite near Pahoia.  

    Whilst the worksites are relatively short and the work is being undertaken at night, there could be delays the following morning due to a temporary speed limit of 30km/h while the chipseal beds in. To ease disruption and enable the new surface to cure, this work is also being done in the school holidays when traditionally there is less traffic. In addition, on SH2 at the intersection with Ōmokoroa Road, work is continuing in preparation for the new roundabout, with lane shifts and speed restrictions in place.  

    To plan ahead and see where disruptive works are, people can use the NZTA Journey Planner.

    NZTA Journey Planner(external link)

    This is kept up to date in real time so you can see all disruptive activity and potential hazards on the state highway network.

    Waikato and Bay of Plenty state highway works as at 4 October 2024 [PDF, 590 KB]

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Response to Ministerial Inquiry into School Property

    Source: New Zealand Government

    The Government is taking decisive action in response to the Ministerial Inquiry into School Property, which concludes the way school property is delivered is not fit for purpose.

    “The school property portfolio is worth $30 billion, and it’s critically important it’s managed properly. This Government is taking a series of immediate actions so all Kiwi kids can learn in safe, warm and dry buildings,” Education Minister Erica Stanford says.

    “The report found the Ministry of Education’s processes for managing the portfolio are bureaucratic and inefficient, its internal governance structures for property investments are not robust, funding decisions lack transparency, and its organisational structure does not provide the right level of focus or accountability.

    “For example, work began with Kaipara College on a project in 2017. Plans were endorsed by the Board in 2022, Cabinet approved funding in 2023 before the project was fully designed and consented. Despite this, the project was unable to go ahead due to the Ministry’s affordability pressures. Many schools told reviewers about significant delays in delivery, with predictable impacts on costs. There were examples of minor projects which could require two months of construction work but had approval processes taking two years. It also identified 29 projects in the New Schools Programme have no construction funding.

    “It confirmed we inherited a struggling system with a pipeline of unfunded school upgrades that were over scoped and couldn’t be delivered. The gap between what schools were led to expect of delivery compared with the reality of funding available, has resulted in a huge loss of confidence in the current system and uncertainty for school communities,” Ms Stanford says.

    The report recommended the Government:

    • Establish a new entity separate from the Ministry of Education, to assume ownership and asset management responsibility for the school property portfolio.
    • Clarify roles and responsibilities for the funding, planning and delivery of school property.
    • Review and simplify the current funding model for state schools.
    • Implement clear processes for regular reporting and priority-setting to promote accountability, transparency, clarity of expectations, and value for money.
    • Establish a Transition Board and Transition Unit to oversee and coordinate the establishment of the new school property entity.
    • Undertake a range of immediate actions during the transition period to simplify the operating model and ensure value for money.

    Cabinet has accepted the findings and will take a phased approach to address the recommendations. The three phases are:

    Phase 1 – Initial steps have been taken since commissioning the report, including instructing the Ministry of Education to focus on offsite manufacturing solutions and improve communication with schools. In Q1 2024, over 60% of new classrooms were initiated as offsite manufacturing, up from under 20% in Q4 2023. A value for money review has also been completed to ensure a more fiscally responsible approach moving forward.

    Phase 2 – Interim improvements including consolidating property and network planning functions within the Ministry of Education as much as practicable, appointing a Functional Chief Executive with expertise in delivering infrastructure to have responsibility for all operational aspects of school property (this will be a two-year appointment). A new independent investment panel will also be established to provide the CE with expert advice on ongoing property decisions and future improvements. Appointments are expected to be completed by the end of the year.

    Phase 3 – Determining the new permanent model or entity for operational school property, with decisions expected in 2025.  

    “Improving education infrastructure is an important part of laying the foundation for New Zealanders to succeed,” Infrastructure Minister Chris Bishop says.

    “It’s absolutely essential that we clarify roles and responsibilities for school property management, provide greater transparency around decisions, and bring in disciplined and data driven oversight of investment and delivery.

    “We want to reassure school communities that works and improvements currently underway at schools across the country will continue as planned while the Government develops a more efficient and sustainable solution for how we deliver school property going forward,” Mr Bishop says.

    Note to editors:

    Report and fact sheet attached.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: State highway update Dunedin, Otago as rain continues, State of Emergency declared Dunedin

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    With heavy rain continuing today across greater Dunedin, Otago and Southland, NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) urges drivers to stay home unless travel is absolutely essential and they know their route is passable and safe.

    • Rivers and streams can rise fast and catch people out.
    • Surface flooding can occur quickly making it hard to judge the road surface, with potholes forming fast.
    • A second rain peak is expected midafternoon, continuing well into the evening, says Otago Emergency Management.

    “While NZTA crews will be getting out warning signage as fast as they can or closing roads as needed for significant flooding, drivers need to slow down and avoid creating bow waves for nearby properties if they strike patches of surface water,” says NZTA Journey Manager Tresca Forrester.

    “Our crews are inspecting the network, including bridges and ensuring any urgent potholes will be managed as water recedes.”

    Three state highways currently closed Otago

    SH88 between Forsyth Barr Stadium and Port Chalmers: Closed due to a serious slip at Maia affecting properties and the highway, as well as several smaller slips along SH88 and around Parry St.

    Updates here: https://www.journeys.nzta.govt.nz/highway-conditions/otago/closures/482713(external link)

    Please note, the informal detour roads above SH88 aren’t suitable for large, heavy vehicles and unless people have an urgent need to travel, they should keep these routes clear also.

    One of the slips on SH88 today closer to Parry St ie not the biggest slip.

    SH87 Kyeburn to Hyde (north of Middlemarch): closed due to flooding. Updates: https://www.journeys.nzta.govt.nz/highway-conditions/otago/closures/482674(external link)

    SH90 Waikoikoi to Tapanui: closed due to flooding. Updates: https://www.journeys.nzta.govt.nz/highway-conditions/otago/closures/482705(external link)

    • Elsewhere in Otago and Southland people can expect to see slips near highways, debris washed up in places with flooding and surface water.
    • Speeds will be reduced in many places where there is flood water up to the road shoulders.
    • There may be lane closures on Dunedin’s Southern Motorway (SH1) from Lookout Point to Green Island due to surface flooding.

    “Driving will be treacherous in many places,” says Ms Forrester. “Please stay home unless you urgently need to get somewhere. Our crews are hard at work today, getting geotechnical assessments in some places and working with council staff to reopen access as soon as it is safe to do so.”

    Please obey any signage and advice on the road: Slow down in flood waters as this causes bow waves into properties and other vehicles.

    • Anyone facing an emergency situation should call 111, while people needing flood-related assistance should contact their local council.

    State Highway updates

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

    Local road closures Dunedin and Portobello peninsula

    https://www.dunedin.govt.nz/news-and-events/public-notices/road-conditions-and-closures(external link)

    River levels from Otago Regional Council

    https://www.orc.govt.nz/your-council/latest-news/news/2024/october/otago-river-level-and-flow-updates/(external link)

    MetService  

    MetService updates: National Severe Weather Information – MetService is New Zealand’s only authorised provider of Severe Weather Alerts(external link)

    Otago Emergency Management

    https://www.otagocdem.govt.nz/(external link)

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: US Department of Labor reminds employers of responsibility to pay clean-up, recovery workers proper wages in Helene’s aftermath

    Source: US Department of Labor

    ATLANTA – As states across the Southeast address Hurricane Helene’s impacts, the U.S. Department of Labor reminds employers in disaster recovery and their workers that even when disaster strikes, worker protections apply.

    The department’s Wage and Hour Division has resources available to help workers and employers understand their rights and responsibilities, including its natural disaster compliance assistance toolkit. The toolkit highlights how to avoid Fair Labor Standards Act violations, focusing on commonly found compliance failures when the department investigates employers engaged in disaster recovery, clean-up and rebuilding efforts.

    Concerns highlighted in the toolkit include minimum and overtime wages, misclassification of employees as independent contractors, recordkeeping requirements, prevailing wages and the employment of children in violation of federal child labor laws. The complete toolkit, including many fact sheets available in English and Spanish, is available for download.

    In the wake of natural disasters, employers must ensure they protect and maintain accurate records and pay workers when wages are due. Workers are particularly vulnerable during times of crisis, and employers that failed to comply with federal labor laws cause them and their families additional harm.

    “Like the communities stricken by hurricanes and other disasters, workers are especially vulnerable after the fact. The U.S. Department of Labor responds quickly to protect workers and ensure they are paid all of their legally earned wages and benefits,” explained Wage and Hour Regional Administrator Juan Coria in Atlanta. “At the same time, we stand ready to provide employers with the information and guidance they need to stay in compliance.”

    The division is committed to strong enforcement of workplace protections for disaster recovery workers nationwide, including the states affected by Hurricane Helene. 

    Workers and employers with questions or concerns can call the agency’s toll-free helpline confidentially at 866-4US-WAGE (487-9243), regardless of where they are from. The division can speak with callers in more than 200 languages. 

    Download the agency’s new Timesheet App for iOS and Android devices – available in English and Spanish –to ensure hours and pay are accurate. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pinellas Park boat manufacturer faces $328K in penalties after Department of Labor follow-up inspection finds significant safety issues ignored

    Source: US Department of Labor

    TAMPA, FL – Rather than address the 15 existing safety and health hazards cited by federal workplace safety inspectors in July 2023, a Pinellas Park boat manufacturer continues to jeopardize the safety and health of its workers, according to a follow-up inspection by the U.S. Department of Labor.

    Prompted by the failure of Blacktip Boatworks LLC to submit required proof of abatement to the department’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration, inspectors returned to the worksite in March 2024 and discovered the company had not corrected hazardous conditions, including failing to institute a workplace respiratory protection program and procedures for workers required to wear tight fitting respirators, and failing to develop and maintain a written hazard communication program and safety data sheets for workers handling hazardous chemicals. 

    In addition, the agency identified repeat and serious safety and health violations, such as failing to provide training to workers voluntarily using respirators, failing to conduct periodic inspections on equipment used to lift boats and remove damaged equipment from service, failing to electrically interconnect containers used to transfer flammable liquids, and failing to provide medical evaluations and fit testing to workers required to wear tight-fitting respirators.

    “Our follow-up inspection found Blacktip Boatworks continuing to expose its employees to potentially disabling and deadly injuries,” explained OSHA Area Director Danelle Jindra in Tampa, Florida. “The citations we issue are not recommendations. They are violations of federal law that must be addressed immediately.”

    View the citation and Failure to Abate notice.

    OSHA cited Blacktip Boatworks with four failure-to-abate, two serious and three repeat violations, as well as one other-than-serious violation because of the inspection. The company now faces a total of $328,287 in penalties. 

    OSHA’s Maritime Industry page provides solutions to prevent injuries from hazards including forklifts, slips, trips and falls and materials handling. The agency’s site offers training publications, videos, and other resources to identify, reduce and eliminate hazards in the maritime sector.

    Based in Pinellas Park, Blacktip Boatworks LLC designs and builds semi-custom flat, bay and offshore boats. 

    The employer has 15 business days from receipt of the citations and penalties to comply, request an informal conference with OSHA’s area director, or contest the findings before the independent Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Attemtped arson attack north-eastern suburbs business

    Source: South Australia Police

    Police are investigating following an attempted arson on a tobacco shop in Clearview earlier this morning.

    About 4.45am on Friday 4 October, police and emergency services were called to a business premises on Hampstead Road after a member of the public reported seeing a fire at the front of the property.

    MFS crews extinguished the small fire on the ground outside the business and fortunately no damage was caused to the shop.

    Western District patrols located remnants of a Molotov cocktail nearby and a crowbar suspected to have been used on the roller shutter at the front of the building causing minor damage.

    Crime Scene Investigators and Detectives will be attending the scene this morning to further investigate the incident.

    Anyone with information that may assist with the investigation is asked to contact Crime Stoppers.  You can anonymously provide information to Crime Stoppers online at https://crimestopperssa.com.au or free call 1800 333 000.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI: Texas Capital Bancshares, Inc. Announces Date for Q3 2024 Operating Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DALLAS, Oct. 03, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Texas Capital Bancshares, Inc. (NASDAQ: TCBI), the parent company of Texas Capital Bank, today announced that it expects to issue financial results for the third quarter of 2024 before market on Thursday, October 17, 2024. Executive management will host a conference call and webcast to discuss third quarter 2024 operating results on Thursday, October 17, 2024, at 9:00 a.m. EDT.

    Participants may pre-register for the call by visiting https://www.netroadshow.com/events/login?show=09508363&confId=72055
    and will receive a unique PIN number to be used when dialing in for the call for immediate access.

    Alternatively, participants may call 833.470.1428 and use the access code 126292 at least fifteen minutes prior to the call to join through an operator.

    The live webcast can be found at https://events.q4inc.com/attendee/897982023. Corresponding presentation slides can be accessed on the company’s investor website at http://investors.texascapitalbank.com.

    An audio replay will be available one hour after the conclusion of the call on the company’s investor website.

    ABOUT TEXAS CAPITAL BANCSHARES, INC.
    Texas Capital Bancshares, Inc. (NASDAQ®: TCBI), a member of the Russell 2000® Index and the S&P MidCap 400®, is the parent company of Texas Capital Bank (“TCB”). Texas Capital is the collective brand name for TCB and its separate, non-bank affiliates and wholly-owned subsidiaries. Texas Capital is a full-service financial services firm that delivers customized solutions to businesses, entrepreneurs and individual customers. Founded in 1998, the institution is headquartered in Dallas with offices in Austin, Houston, San Antonio and Fort Worth, and has built a network of clients across the country. With the ability to service clients through their entire lifecycles, Texas Capital has established commercial banking, consumer banking, investment banking and wealth management capabilities. All services are subject to applicable laws, regulations, and service terms. Deposit and lending products and services are offered by TCB. For deposit products, member FDIC. For more information, please visit http://www.texascapital.com.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: AGF Reports September 2024 Assets Under Management and Fee-Earning Assets

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, Oct. 03, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — AGF Management Limited reported total assets under management (AUM) and fee-earning assets1 of $50.9 billion as at September 30, 2024.

    AUM

    ($ billions)

    		 September 30,
    2024    		 August 31,
    2024    		 % Change
    Month-Over-
    Month    		 September 30,
    2023    		 % Change
    Year-Over-
    Year
    Total Mutual Fund $28.7 $28.1   $23.5  
    Exchange-traded funds + Separately managed accounts $2.4 $2.1   $1.4  
    Segregated accounts and Sub-advisory $6.6 $6.4   $6.9  
    AGF Private Wealth $8.3 $8.2   $7.1  
    Subtotal
    (before AGF Capital Partners AUM and fee-earning assets1)    		 $46.0 $44.8   $38.9  
    AGF Capital Partners $2.8 $2.8   $0.1  
    Total AUM $48.8 $47.6 2.5% $39.0 25.1%
    AGF Capital Partners fee-earning assets1 $2.1 $2.1   $2.0  
    Total AUM and fee-earning assets1 $50.9 $49.7 2.4% $41.0 24.1%
               
    Average Daily Mutual Fund AUM $28.2 $27.7   $24.0  

    1 Fee-earning assets represent assets in which AGF has carried interest ownership and earns recurring fees but does not have ownership interest in the managers.

    Mutual Fund AUM by Category

    ($ billions)

    		 September 30,
    2024    		 August 31,
    2024    		 September 30,
    2023
    Domestic Equity Funds $4.4 $4.3 $3.9
    U.S. and International Equity Funds $17.3 $16.9 $13.1
    Domestic Balanced Funds $0.1 $0.1 $0.1
    U.S. and International Balanced Funds $1.6 $1.6 $1.6
    Domestic Fixed Income Funds $1.8 $1.7 $1.5
    U.S. and International Fixed Income Funds $3.2 $3.2 $3.1
    Domestic Money Market $0.3 $0.3 $0.2
    Total Mutual Fund AUM $28.7 $28.1 $23.5
    AGF Capital Partners AUM and fee-earning assets

    ($ billions)

    		 September 30,
    2024    		 August 31,
    2024    		 September 30,
    2023
    AGF Capital Partners AUM $2.8 $2.8 $0.1
    AGF Capital Partners fee-earning assets $2.1 $2.1 $2.0
    Total AGF Capital Partners AUM and fee-earning assets $4.9 $4.9 $2.1


    About AGF Management Limited

    Founded in 1957, AGF Management Limited (AGF) is an independent and globally diverse asset management firm. Our companies deliver excellence in investing in the public and private markets through three business lines: AGF Investments, AGF Capital Partners and AGF Private Wealth.

    AGF brings a disciplined approach, focused on incorporating sound, responsible and sustainable corporate practices. The firm’s collective investment expertise, driven by its fundamental, quantitative and private investing capabilities, extends globally to a wide range of clients, from financial advisors and their clients to high-net worth and institutional investors including pension plans, corporate plans, sovereign wealth funds, endowments and foundations.

    Headquartered in Toronto, Canada, AGF has investment operations and client servicing teams on the ground in North America and Europe. With nearly $51 billion in total assets under management and fee-earning assets, AGF serves more than 800,000 investors. AGF trades on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol AGF.B.

    AGF Management Limited shareholders, analysts and media, please contact:

    Ken Tsang
    Chief Financial Officer
    416-865-4338, InvestorRelations@agf.com

    The MIL Network –