Category: KB

MIL-OSI Translation: Fact Sheet: Investing in Unforgettable Experiences on Prince Edward Island

MIL OSI Translation. Canadian French to English –

Source: Government of Canada – in French 2

Information document

The Government of Canada is investing more than $1.7 million in ten projects to support the continued development of Prince Edward Island’s tourism industry products.

CUSTOMER NAME	PROJECT	APECA HELP	PROVINCIAL AID
Municipality of North Rustico	Undertake the modernization of the promenade infrastructure to promote connections between communities, active transportation and improve the tourist experience.	$437,033 Non-refundable	$450,000 Non-refundable
Tourism Cavendish Beach	Stimulate the development of tourism products and create an annual marketing plan for 2023-2024.	$100,000 Non-refundable	$59,000 Non-refundable
Tourism Cavendish Beach	Stimulate the development of tourism products and create an annual marketing plan for 2024-2025.	$100,000 Non-refundable	$63,000 Grant
Tourism Cavendish Beach	Engage a consultant to carry out the launch phase of a new and innovative tourism experience in Cavendish.	$37,000 Non-refundable	$35,000 Non-refundable
Tourism Industry Association of	Administer the PEI Events Innovation Fund to support	$650,100 Non-refundable
The Island Path	Implement a strategic plan and strengthen marketing efforts.	$30,000 Non-refundable	$50,875 Non-refundable
Central Coastal Tourism Partnership	Lead marketing, product and professional development initiatives in partnership with tourism business operators for the period 2023-2024.	$25,200 Non-refundable	$38,200 Non-refundable
Central Coastal Tourism Partnership	Lead marketing, product and professional development initiatives in partnership with tourism operators for the period 2024-2025.	$28,500 Non-refundable	$37,500 Grant
Central Coastal Tourism Partnership	Conduct a destination market readiness program in the Rustico area to exploit tourism potential.	$33,500 Non-refundable	$10,000 Grant
Golf PEI	Deliver on the 2023-2024 Strategic and Marketing Plan objectives to position PEI as a world-class destination.	$284,000 Non-refundable	$243,000 Grant
TOTAL		$1,725,333	$986,575

Contact persons

Connor BurtonPress SecretaryOffice of the Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities AgencyConnor.Burton@acoa-apeca.gc.ca

David FlemingCommunications ManagerAtlantic Canada Opportunities Agencydavid.fleming@acoa-apeca.gc.ca

April GallantSenior Communications OfficerFisheries, Tourism, Sport and Culture, Province of Prince Edward Islandaldgallant@gov.pe.ca

Stephanie MoaseCity ManagerMunicipality of North Rusticosmoase@northrustico.com

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

MIL Translation OSI

September 29, 2024

MIL-OSI USA: H.R. 5799, the James R. Dominguez Memorial Act of 2023

Source: US Congressional Budget Office

On September 25, 2024, the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs ordered reported the following two pieces of legislation that would name U.S. Customs and Border Protection facilities:
• H.R. 5799, the James R. Dominguez Memorial Act of 2023; and
• S. 3181, the Michel O. Maceda Memorial Act, which was subsequently reported by the committee on the same day.

MIL OSI USA News –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI USA: H.R. 8936, Rohingya Genocide Accountability and Protection Act

Source: US Congressional Budget Office

H.R. 8936 would authorize appropriations for several Department of State and U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) programs to assist Rohingya communities in Burma and in surrounding countries. It also would require the department and USAID to report to the Congress on their implementation of the bill and on related matters. In total, CBO estimates that implementing H.R. 8936 would cost $1.1 billion over the 2024-2029 period. Such spending would be subject to appropriation of the specified and estimated amounts.

MIL OSI USA News –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Stansbury Introduces Legislation to Give Land Back to Pueblo

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Melanie Stansbury (N.M.-01)

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Representative Melanie Stansbury (N.M.-01) introduced the San Felipe Pueblo Land into Trust bill, 37 years after the land was designated as an Area of Critical Environmental Concern back in 1987.

First introduced by then-Congresswoman Michelle Lujan Grisham in the 115th Congress, again by then-Congresswoman Deb Haaland in the 116th Congress, and now co-sponsored by Representative Teresa Leger Fernandez (N.M.-03) in the 118th, this bill would direct the Secretary of the Interior to convey the area currently known as the Ball Ranch Area of Critical Environmental Concern in New Mexico, into trust for the benefit of San Felipe Pueblo.

“Indigenous peoples have been stewards of the land since time immemorial,” said Rep. Stansbury (NM-01). “But time and time again, they have been forced from their homes and the land that holds sacred meaning to them. For the people of San Felipe Pueblo, the area currently known as Ball Ranch holds a deep cultural and religious significance because of the many irreplaceable cultural resources found there. That’s why I’ve introduced this legislation: because Indigenous people deserve to keep and protect the land they’ve lived on for thousands of years free from pollution and destruction.”

“This legislation is the culmination of more than a decade of work, spanning several Congresses, to transfer this land into trust,” said San Felipe Pueblo Governor Anthony Ortiz. “It is a recognition that, working with the BLM, the Pueblo of San Felipe is the best possible steward of this land. This is our aboriginal homeland, surrounded by the Pueblo, and is sacred to all area Pueblos. The Pueblo of San Felipe is very grateful to Congresswoman Melanie Stansbury who is leading this effort here in Washington. She and her staff have gone above and beyond to make this bill a reality and she has demonstrated her strong commitment to Tribal Sovereignty and respect for the federal government to government relationship.”

“This bill highlights the importance of everyone working together to make this dream a reality,” said Rep. Leger Fernandez (NM-03). “We must return the land to those for whom it is sacred and who will dedicate themselves to protect it. We will not give up until San Felipe Pueblo gets their land returned.”

Read the bill here.

Watch a video of the press conference here.

Other statements of support:

“I am proud to support Congresswoman Melanie Stansbury’s bill, which protects our public lands and recognizes the critical need for land to be returned to tribal communities like San Felipe Pueblo,” said Sandoval County Commissioner Joshua Jones. The Pueblo have deep cultural, historical, and spiritual ties to this land, and ensuring they have the resources to preserve their heritage is essential for justice and sustainability. This legislation would allow the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) to facilitate land transfers that respect tribal sovereignty while promoting environmental stewardship. By supporting this bill, we can help San Felipe Pueblo reclaim land that is rightfully theirs, ensuring their community can thrive both economically and culturally. I urge the BLM to prioritize these land transfers and recognize the significance of this legislation for tribal nations.”

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MIL OSI USA News –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI Video: Secretary Blinken Meeting with the Foreign Ministers – 11:00 AM

Source: United States of America – Department of State (video statements)

Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken meets with the Foreign Ministers of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyz Republic, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan (C5+1) in New York City, New York.
———-
Under the leadership of the President and Secretary of State, the U.S. Department of State leads America’s foreign policy through diplomacy, advocacy, and assistance by advancing the interests of the American people, their safety and economic prosperity. On behalf of the American people we promote and demonstrate democratic values and advance a free, peaceful, and prosperous world.

The Secretary of State, appointed by the President with the advice and consent of the Senate, is the President’s chief foreign affairs adviser. The Secretary carries out the President’s foreign policies through the State Department, which includes the Foreign Service, Civil Service and U.S. Agency for International Development.

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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yFhJlGYlIT8

MIL OSI Video –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI Security: NATO boosts cooperation amongst Schools for Non-Commissioned Officers

Source: NATO

NATO’s Defence Education Enhancement Programme (DEEP) organised the 3rd Annual Conference of Non-Commissioned Officer (NCO) Academies and Schools, from 16 to 19 September 2024, in Batumi, Georgia. The event was held in cooperation with the Partnership for Peace Consortium of Defence Academies and Security Studies Institutes and the Defence Forces of Georgia, with well over 80 participants from more than 30 countries.

Participants included high level officials, such as NATO’s Deputy Assistant Secretary General for Operations, Burcu San, the Head of the NATO Liaison Office in Georgia, Alexander Vinnikov, and the Deputy Chief of the Georgian General Staff, Major General Zaza Chkhaidze, as well as commandants and senior enlisted leaders, and senior instructors of Schools for Non-Commissioned Officers from both NATO Allies and partners. Representatives from Malawi and Columbia also participated for the first time.

They discussed a range of issues, including the preparation of NCO specialists and the education of young generations of NCOs, as well as various initiatives run by NATO’s Defence Education Enhancement Programme in the domain of NCOs’ development. They also received an update from representatives of the Ukrainian Armed Forces on the role performed by their NCOs corps in defending against Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine.

Non-commissioned officers are vital to the effectiveness and resilience of modern militaries, as they provide critical role-models for service members and support the development of military education systems.

This year’s conference in Georgia built on two previous conferences hosted by Bosnia and Herzegovina and Croatia, in 2022 and 2023, respectively. The Conference of NCO Academies and Schools was established by NATO’s DEEP Team as a platform to enable these institutions to communicate, synchronise curricula, and share best practices.

MIL Security OSI –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Stansbury Fights Back Against Fentanyl
Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Melanie Stansbury (N.M.-01)

WASHINGTON D.C. —Congresswoman Melanie Stansbury (N.M.-01) introduced the Stop the Opioid Pill Presser and Fentanyl Act (STOPP Fentanyl Act) to commercially disrupt global criminal networks and suppliers of illicit drugs like fentanyl.

“The devastating impact of the fentanyl crisis is deeply personal for me. Sadly, like millions of Americans, this epidemic has touched my life with the death of a close friend,” said Rep. Melanie Stansbury (NM-01). “Drug traffickers and suppliers adapt quickly, and so should we. Our focus must remain on criminals who pour fentanyl into our streets through tablets and counterfeit pills. Regulating pill presses stops this process at the start – another step in protecting Americans.”

Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) has identified the need to deny illicit synthetic drug producers’ access to pill presses, die molds, encapsulating machines, and other counterfeit pill manufacturing materials.

Tablets and counterfeit pills containing fentanyl have become more common, and people who consume them may not know that they include fentanyl or other dangerous substances.

Congresswoman Stansbury’s legislation targets the production of these fake pills by requiring those who manufacture or distribute pill tableting or encapsulating machines and their critical parts to “serialize” their machinery, keep records of all relevant transactions, and report those transactions to the Attorney General by creating a national registry to track the movement of these pill tableting or encapsulating machines and their critical parts in the stream of commerce.

Those who violate the serialization, record-keeping, reporting, or registry requirements will be subject to penalties.

Original co-sponsors include: Assistant Leader Joe Neguse (CO-02), Ranking Member Raul Grijalva (AZ-07), Rep. Annie Kuster (NH-02), Rep. Steven Horsford (NV-04), Rep. Chris Pappas (NH-01), Rep. Angie Craig (MN-02), Rep. Wiley Nickel (NC-13), Rep. Andrea Salinas (OR-06), and Rep. Brittany Petterson (Co-07).

“Too many in Southern Arizona have been impacted by the scourge of fentanyl. This legislation will help with the regulation of pill presses and make it harder for fentanyl traffickers to push illegal drugs on American streets,” said Rep. Raul Grijalva (AZ-01). “I’m proud to support this common-sense safety legislation.”

“Illicit, counterfeit pills containing fentanyl continue to pose a deadly threat to our communities. I have had countless conversations with law enforcement about the growing threat as well as heard from families who share heartbreaking stories about the toll these counterfeit pills are taking on their loved ones,” said Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01). “This legislation would put common sense regulations in place to monitor pill press machines, stop them from getting into the hands of bad actors, and combat deadly pills from being put onto our streets. I want to thank Congresswoman Stansbury for introducing this important bill, and I remain committed to working across the aisle to do all we can to keep our communities safe, support the work of law enforcement, and bring traffickers and operators of illegal pill press operations to justice.”

“I’m proud to cosponsor the Stop Opioid Pill Press Act, a critical step in cracking down on the manufacturing of counterfeit pills containing fentanyl,” said Rep. Wiley Nickel (NC-13). “I’ll continue to raise awareness about this deadly epidemic and will keep up the fight to secure our southern border and stop the flow of these dangerous drugs into our communities.”

“Regulating pill presses and disrupting the production of counterfeit pills will help stem the flow of dangerous synthetic substances like fentanyl, ultimately preventing overdoses and saving lives,” said Rep. Brittany Pettersen (CO-07). “Addressing this public health crisis has been my top priority in Congress, and this legislation marks an important step towards holding cartels accountable.”

A copy of the bill text, videos, and photos from the press event can be found here.

Facts about fake prescription pills laced with fentanyl:
- The Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) seized more than 80 million fentanyl-laced fake pills and nearly 12,000 pounds of fentanyl powder in 2023.
- Those seizures are equivalent to more than 390 million lethal doses of fentanyl.
- Laboratory testing indicates 7 out of every 10 pills seized by DEA contain a lethal dose of fentanyl.
- The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) found fentanyl seizures more than quadrupled between 2017 and 2023.
- Almost half the fentanyl seized in 2023 were in fake pill form.
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MIL OSI USA News –
September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI Europe: Enhancing co-operation between the public sector and financial institutions in countering the financing of terrorism focus of OSCE training course in Albania

Source: Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe – OSCE

Headline: Enhancing co-operation between the public sector and financial institutions in countering the financing of terrorism focus of OSCE training course in Albania

Enhancing co-operation between the public sector and financial institutions in countering the financing of terrorism focus of OSCE training course in Albania | OSCE
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MIL OSI Europe News –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI USA: Leader of 2021 Tennessee Clinic Blockade Sentenced for Federal Conspiracy Against Rights and Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances (FACE) Act Convictions

Source: US State of Vermont

Chester Gallagher, the leader of a March 5, 2021, blockade of a Mount Juliet, Tennessee, reproductive health clinic was sentenced yesterday to 16 months in prison and three years of supervised release following his convictions for federal conspiracy against rights and Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances (FACE) Act offenses.

“This defendant, like everyone else, has a right to his personal views regarding reproductive healthcare, and the right to speak, write and demonstrate about those views,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “But he does not have the right to impose his views on others by using intimidation and physical obstruction to prevent access to reproductive health care. This defendant is being held accountable for leading both a conspiracy to blockade a reproductive health clinic and the actual blockade, which physically obstructed patient access. The Justice Department will continue to protect patients seeking reproductive health services and the providers delivering those services.”

“The defendant and his co-conspirators knowingly chose to violate a law that was enacted to protect health care providers and patients in an effort to impose their views about reproductive healthcare on others” said U.S. Attorney Henry Leventis for the Middle District of Tennessee. “While we are all entitled to our personal views, yesterday’s sentence is a reminder that we cannot pick and choose which laws we follow and that those who violate the law will be held accountable.”

“This sentencing should send a clear message that the FBI will always work to bring to justice those who violate the civil rights of others,” said Special Agent in Charge Joseph E. Carrico of the FBI Memphis Field Office. “The FBI will continue to investigate FACE Act violations to protect the rights of those who receive or provide lawful reproductive health care without the threat of violence or intimidation.”

Gallagher and five co-defendants were previously convicted at trial of all charges. A sixth co-defendant previously pleaded guilty. Evidence presented at trial proved that Gallagher and his co-defendants engaged in a conspiracy to prevent employees at the Mount Juliet reproductive health clinic from providing, and patients from receiving, reproductive health services, a civil right secured by the FACE Act. As part of the conspiracy, Gallagher and others traveled to Tennessee from other states to participate in the clinic blockade, and Gallagher and another co-defendant stalled the Mount Juliet Police Department through phony negotiations. Evidence at trial further proved that the defendant violated the FACE Act by using physical obstruction to interfere with the clinic’s employees and a patient, because the clinic provided, and the patient sought, reproductive health services.

Gallagher was also convicted of conspiracy against rights and FACE Act offenses in the Eastern District of Michigan on Aug. 20.

The FBI Memphis Field Office, Nashville Resident Agency, investigated the case.

The U.S Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Tennessee and Civil Rights Division’s Criminal Section prosecuted the case.

MIL OSI USA News –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI USA: Florida Financial Advisor Charged with Promoting Illegal Tax Shelter, Stealing Clients’ Funds and Money Laundering

Source: US State of Vermont

A federal grand jury in Gulfport, Mississippi, returned an indictment, unsealed yesterday, charging a Florida financial advisor with a years-long scheme to promote and operate an illegal tax shelter, stealing some of his clients’ funds and money laundering.

According to the indictment, Stephen T. Mellinger III, of Florida, was a securities broker, financial advisor and insurance salesman. Beginning in late 2013, Mellinger allegedly conspired with several others to defraud the IRS by promoting an illegal tax shelter.

Mellinger allegedly instructed clients participating in the shelter, including clients in Mississippi, to transfer money to a company controlled by Mellinger or his co-conspirators in the amount they wished to claim as a deduction on their tax returns. The conspirators then allegedly returned the money to a bank account that clients controlled less a percentage fee that they charged for their services. Even though tax shelter clients received their money back, Mellinger allegedly directed them to claim the transfer to the company as a deduction on their tax returns, and to label the deduction as a “royalty” payment. Mellinger allegedly earned more than $3 million in fees from the shelter.

Also, in January 2016, the federal government allegedly seized funds from some of Mellinger’s clients, who were engaged in a scheme to defraud health care benefit programs, including TRICARE, the U.S. Department of Defense’s health care benefit program. Mellinger conspired with a close relative to take advantage of the seizure to steal some of the money that those clients had transferred through the tax shelter. Mellinger then allegedly laundered the stolen funds, which he knew were proceeds of healthcare fraud. Ultimately, he allegedly used some of the funds he stole from his clients to buy a home in Delray Beach, Florida.

Mellinger was charged with conspiracy to defraud the United States, aiding in the preparation of false tax returns, conspiracy to commit wire fraud, conspiracy to commit money laundering and money laundering. If convicted, Mellinger faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison for conspiring to defraud the IRS, a maximum penalty of three years in prison for each substantive count of aiding in the preparation of false tax returns, a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison for conspiring to commit wire fraud, a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison for conspiring to commit money laundering and a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison for each substantive count of money laundering. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Stuart M. Goldberg of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and U.S. Attorney Todd W. Gee for the Southern District of Mississippi made the announcement.

IRS Criminal Investigation and Defense Criminal Investigative Service are investigating the case.

Trial Attorneys William Montague, Richard J. Hagerman and Matthew Hicks of the Tax Division, Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles W. Kirkham for the Southern District of Mississippi and Trial Attorneys Emily Cohen and Jasmin Salehi Fashami of the Criminal Division’s Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section (MLARS) are prosecuting the case.

An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

MIL OSI USA News –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI USA: Justice Department Announces an Organizational Assessment of the Hackensack, New Jersey, Police Department under the COPS Office’s Collaborative Reform Initiative
Source: US State of Vermont

The Justice Department’s Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS Office) today announced that it will provide an Organizational Assessment of the Hackensack, New Jersey, Police Department through its Collaborative Reform Initiative. This is a voluntary program that is offered at the request of law enforcement agencies that are seeking to ensure fair, impartial, and effective policing for the communities they serve. Over the next year, the Hackensack Police Department will work in partnership with the COPS Office Collaborative Reform Initiative team to focus on:
- Data-Driven Policing;
- Employee Wellness, Training, and Professional Development;
- Community Engagement and Problem-Solving Strategies;
- Internal and External Communications;
- Leadership and Organizational Structure; and
- Accountability and Oversight Systems.
“The in-depth assessments undertaken as part of the Collaborative Reform Initiative benefit both the Hackensack Police Department and the community,” said Principal Deputy Associate Attorney General Benjamin C. Mizer. “By taking an honest look at what might need to be strengthened or reformed, agencies can continue to improve public safety and trust.”

“By examining an agency’s historical practices, their current practices, and their goals for the future, a solid plan for moving forward can be put in place,” said Director Hugh T. Clements Jr. of the COPS Office. “It is this kind of strategic thinking and planning that is critical in helping agencies meet the standards that the community has set for them.”

Regular updates on the Collaborative Reform Initiative team’s work with the Hackensack Police Department will be provided at www.cops.usdoj.gov/active-oa-site-hackensack-nj-police-department as part of the transparency and public accountability of this new Organizational Assessment effort.

The Collaborative Reform Initiative encompasses three programs offering expert services to state, local, territorial, and Tribal law enforcement agencies: the Collaborative Reform Initiative Technical Assistance Center, Critical Response, and Organizational Assessment programs (complete details of these programs can be found at www.cops.usdoj.gov/collaborativereform). Managed out of the COPS Office, this continuum of services is designed to build trust between law enforcement agencies and the communities they serve; improve operational efficiencies and effectiveness; enhance officer safety and wellness; build agencies’ capacity for organizational learning and self-improvement; and promote community policing practices nationwide.

The Organizational Assessment program provides the most intensive form of technical assistance on the continuum, involving in-depth assessments and long-term assistance to improve the fairness, effectiveness, and efficacy of agency operations that build trust with communities. A continual assessment and implementation process ensures that time and resources are used to focus on identifying areas for improvement, reinforcing agency strengths, and assisting with the implementation of improvements expeditiously. At the same time, the process provides transparency and accountability with routine public reporting and community input. Each engagement will be supported by a multidisciplinary assessment team composed of subject matter experts with diverse experience and perspectives, including in law enforcement, community engagement, research and evaluation, program management, and organizational reform.

The COPS Office is the federal component of the Justice Department responsible for advancing community policing nationwide. The only Justice Department agency with policing in its name, the COPS Office was established in 1994 and has been the cornerstone of the nation’s crime fighting strategy with grants, a variety of knowledge resource products, and training and technical assistance. Through the years, the COPS Office has become the go-to organization for law enforcement agencies across the country and continues to listen to the field and provide the resources that are needed to reduce crime and build trust between law enforcement and the communities served. The COPS Office has been appropriated more than $20 billion to advance community policing, including grants awarded to more than 13,000 state, local, territorial, and Tribal law enforcement agencies to fund the hiring and redeployment of approximately 138,000 officers.

MIL OSI USA News –
September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI: Horizon Bancorp, Inc. Announces Conference Call to Review Third Quarter 2024 Results on October 24

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

MICHIGAN CITY, Ind., Sept. 27, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — (NASDAQ GS: HBNC) – Horizon Bancorp, Inc. (“Horizon” or the “Company”) will host a conference call at 7:30 a.m. CT on Thursday, October 24, 2024 to review its third quarter 2024 financial results.

The Company’s third quarter news release will be published after markets close on Wednesday, October 23, 2024. It will be available at investor.horizonbank.com.

Participants may access the live conference call on October 24, 2024 at 7:30 a.m. CT (8:30 a.m. ET) by dialing 833-974-2379 from the United States, 866-450-4696 from Canada, or 412-317-5772 from international locations and requesting the “Horizon Bancorp Call.” Please dial in approximately 10 minutes prior to the call.

A telephone replay of the call will be available approximately one hour after the end of the conference call through November 1, 2024. The telephone replay may be accessed by dialing 877-344-7529 from the United States, 855-669-9658 from Canada, or 412-317-0088 from other international locations and entering the access code 9847279.

About Horizon Bancorp, Inc.
Horizon Bancorp, Inc. (NASDAQ GS: HBNC) is the $7.9 billion-asset commercial bank holding company for Horizon Bank, which serve customers across diverse and economically attractive Midwestern markets through convenient digital and virtual tools, as well as its Indiana and Michigan branches. Horizon’s retail offerings include prime residential and other secured consumer lending to in-market customers, as well as a range of personal banking and wealth management solutions. Horizon also provides a comprehensive array of in-market business banking and treasury management services, as well as equipment financing solutions for customers regionally and nationally, with commercial lending representing over half of total loans. More information on Horizon, headquartered in Northwest Indiana’s Michigan City, is available at horizonbank.com and investor.horizonbank.com.

Contact:
Mark E. Secor, Chief Administration Officer
Phone: (219) 873-2611

The MIL Network –

September 29, 2024

MIL-OSI: Results for the Period Ended 30 June 2024

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

Octopus Future Generations VCT plc

Results for the Period Ended 30 June 2024

Octopus Future Generations VCT plc (‘Future Generations VCT’ or the ‘Company’) is backing businesses that aim to address society’s biggest challenges, providing an opportunity for investors to share in the growth of ambitious, purpose‑driven companies.

The Company is managed by Octopus AIF Management Limited (the ‘Manager’), who has delegated investment management to Octopus Investments Limited (‘Octopus’ or ‘Portfolio Manager’) via its investment team Octopus Ventures.

The Company today announces the unaudited financial report for the twelve months ended 30 June 2024.

Chair’s statement

Highlights

£46.1m in total net assets
86.8p Net Asset Value (NAV) per share
36 portfolio companies

I am pleased to present the unaudited financial report and accounts for the Company for the twelve months to 30 June 2024.

I would like to welcome all new shareholders to the Company. Future Generations VCT invests in exciting early-stage companies which aspire to address current environmental and societal issues.

The NAV per share at 30 June 2024 was 86.8p, which represents a net decrease of 6.9p per share from 31 December 2023, the latest released NAV. In the twelve months to 30 June 2024, we utilised £8.3 million of our cash resources, including £7.2 million which was invested into 13 new portfolio companies. The cash balance of £17.5 million as at 30 June 2024 represents 37.8% of net assets at that date. The loss made in the period to 30 June 2024 was £4.0 million. This decline is mainly caused by the downward movements in some portfolio company valuations. It is reflective of some company specific performance challenges and the difficult funding conditions in the early stage space. Given the Company is still a new VCT, many of its portfolio companies are at the beginning of their journey and will likely require further funding to succeed, so it is to be expected to see under performance or even failures before any growth in value of companies which are ultimately successful.

Fundraise
On 31 January 2024 we launched a new offer to raise up to £15 million, and to date we have raised £3.2 million. The offer will close for new applications on 27 January 2025, or earlier at the Board’s discretion. We would like to take this opportunity to thank all shareholders for their continued support.

As investors will be aware, the intention is to invest in businesses which meet one of three key themes, which we believe demonstrate good investment prospects as well as having the potential to transform the world we live in for the better.

VCT qualification
I am pleased to report that in April 2024, the Company met the requirement for 80% of the Company’s funds to be invested in VCT qualifying holdings by 1 July 2024 (for funds raised up to 30 June 2022). The remainder will be invested in permitted non-VCT qualifying investments or cash.

In November 2023, a ten-year extension was announced to the ‘sunset clause’ (a retirement date for the VCT scheme), meaning VCT tax reliefs will be available until 5 April 2035. This extension passed through Parliament in February 2024 and on 3 September the Treasury brought into effect the extension through The Finance Act 2024.

Principal risks and uncertainties
The Board continues to review the risk environment in which the Company operates on a regular basis. The principal risks as described on pages 32 to 34 of the Annual Report for the year ended 30 June 2023 remain, however there is increased exposure to investment performance and loss of key people These will be reported on in detail in the annual report to 31 December 2024.

Change to year end
In 2023, the Board reviewed and approved a proposal to move the Company’s year-end from 30 June to 31 December. This change is largely being driven by operational efficiency gains by aligning year-end periods with other funds with which the Company co-invests. As a result, shareholders will receive an annual report for 31 December 2024 covering an extended 18-month period. After this, the normal cadence of reporting will resume.

Board of Directors
As announced in our half-yearly report to 31 December 2023, Ajay Chowdhury was appointed as an independent Non-Executive Director on 1 March 2024. Ajay is a serial entrepreneur, venture capitalist and author, and recently retired from his role as senior partner at the Boston Consulting Group. We look forward to benefitting from his wealth of experience in the early-stage venture ecosystem.

AGM
The AGM will take place on 10 December 2024 from 10:00am and will be held at the offices of Octopus Investments Limited, 33 Holborn, London, EC1N 2HT. Full details of the business to be conducted at the AGM are given in the Notice of AGM.

Shareholders’ views are important, and the Board encourages shareholders to vote on the resolutions within the Notice of AGM using the proxy form, or electronically at www.investorcentre.co.uk/eproxy. The Board has carefully considered the business to be approved at the AGM and recommends shareholders to vote in favour of all the resolutions being proposed, as the Board will be doing.

Outlook
The decline in the NAV is disappointing, with some of the portfolio companies struggling to scale, secure customer wins and successfully fundraise meaning they are not achieving the milestones set at the time the Company invested. With companies not able to prove their business models, we will unfortunately see companies fail. The Board is mindful that it is not an unusual outcome for a Company at this stage of its investment life cycle, with any failures likely preceding valuation growth which is expected once the portfolio matures. While the Company continues to add to its portfolio, there is also currently a greater concentration of value in fewer companies, so performance will be more sensitive to valuation movements in the underlying holdings than if the portfolio was larger.

The decline has been amplified by challenging global economic conditions which have characterised the last few years particularly impacting on growth and early-stage businesses. We are hopeful that there are signs of recovery on the horizon, with the Bank of England cutting interest rates for the first time since 2020 and the conclusion of the UK General Election bringing more political certainty and stability. The exit environment is also starting to show signs of recovery, with Initial Public Offerings (IPOs) having their strongest start to the year since the peak of 2021, bringing renewed optimism in the market¹. Together, this gives us some confidence that the challenging environment our portfolio companies are operating in will start to improve, and with diversification across the three investment themes, it should mean the Company is well positioned to generate long-term value for shareholders.

I would like to conclude by thanking both my Board colleagues and the Octopus team on behalf of all shareholders for their hard work. The Board’s long-term view of early-stage venture capital remains positive, and I am looking forward to seeing what the remainder of the year brings for your Company.

Helen Sinclair
Chair
27 September 2024

1 Pitchbook, European Venture Report Q2 2024 https://pitchbook.com/news/reports/q2-2024-european-venture-report#:~:text=Our%20Q2%202024%20European%20Venture,most%2Dactive%20vertical%20after%20SaaS.

Portfolio Manager’s review

Focus on Future Generations VCT’s investments
Below is a breakdown of the 36 investments held as at 30 June 2024, showing the proportion and value of the portfolio in each investment theme:

Proportion by number of portfolio companies in each theme
Revitalising healthcare: 50%
Empowering people: 31%
Building a sustainable planet: 19%

Value of the portfolio in each theme
Revitalising healthcare: £12.3m
Empowering people: £10.4m
Building a sustainable planet: £5.9m

Overview of investments
The Company completed 7 new investments in the six months to 30 June 2024 (comprising a total of £5.2 million) and 2 further investments after the reporting date totalling £0.5 million. More information on three of these businesses can be found below:

A selection of our completed investments

Empowering people
Swiipr
Swiipr has developed a digital payments platform specifically for the airline industry. The platform enables airlines to instantly compensate passengers in cases of disrupted or cancelled flights, using virtual or pre-paid cards. Swiipr aims to streamline payment processing for airlines and improve the reimbursement experience for affected passengers.

Building a sustainable planet
Drift
Drift Energy is designing sailing vessels and the routing algorithms required to capture deep water wind energy and convert it into onboard hydrogen gas. This would then be transported back to shore using a fully integrated desalination, electrolysis and storage system.

Revitalising healthcare
Manual
Manual is looking to become the go-to global platform to increase healthy lifespan and build a series of direct-to-consumer health brands for high importance, non-critical areas of health. To achieve this, it will provide easy to access advice and medical support for diagnosis, custom treatment plans and holistic care to induce long-term behaviour change.

Top ten investments

Portfolio company		Cost	Valuation at 30 June 2024	Investment theme
1.	Perk Finance, S.L. (t/a* Cobee)	£2.6m	£3.7m	Empowering people
2.	HelloSelf Limited	£2.6m	£2.6m	Revitalising healthcare
3.	Neat SAS	£0.8m	£2.2m	Building a sustainable planet
4.	Infinitopes Ltd	£1.6m	£1.6m	Revitalising healthcare
5.	TYTN Ltd (t/a TitanML)	£0.5m	£1.5m	Building a sustainable planet
6.	Mr & Mrs Oliver Ltd (t/a Skin + Me)	£1.0m	£1.4m	Revitalising healthcare
7.	Apheris AI GmbH	£1.2m	£1.2m	Empowering people
8.	Remofirst, Inc.	£1.2m	£1.2m	Empowering people
9.	Intrinsic Semiconductor Technologies Ltd	£0.9m	£1.0m	Empowering people
10.	Inflow Holdings Inc.	£1.0m	£1.0m	Revitalising healthcare

* Trading as

Portfolio engagement – D&I and carbon emission measurement
As part of our strategy, we require portfolio companies to put in place a Diversity and Inclusion policy (D&I) and an Anti-Harassment policy. We also engage with each company to help them understand their greenhouse gas emissions and support them to take action to minimise them. You can see how we are progressing with these goals below, as at the date of this report:

D&I policy status
Policy in place: 36
In progress: 0

Engaged in monitoring 2023 greenhouse gas emissions
Signed up: 12
Introduced: 22
In progress: 2

Focus on performance
The NAV of 86.8p per share at 30 June 2024 represents a decrease of 6.9p per share versus a NAV of 93.7p per share as at 31 December 2023. The decline in valuation over the six-month period has been driven by the downward valuation movements across 13 companies which saw a collective decrease in valuation of £6.5 million. The businesses that contributed most significantly to this were Tympa Health, Pear Bio and Elo Health. In the six months, the Company further invested into Tympa Health as this was the committed second tranche of the original investment case from 2023. During the investment period, Tympa Health over-invested in growth and has now had to make significant cost cuts and changes to senior management whilst running a fundraise process. It has successfully secured an external lead investor, but at a reduced valuation and the Company now sits behind a large preference stack, meaning that other investors get paid back first before the Company would see any returns. Pear Bio has also had to significantly reduced its cash burn but has limited runway and needs to further fundraise, so the valuation has been reduced to reflect this risk. Elo Health has struggled to find a market fit and execute on the investment thesis, so to extend its cash runway it has had to raise an investment round at a reduced valuation. These three valuation movements account for 87.6% of the total decline in the six months.

Octopus Ventures believes that some of the companies which have seen decreased valuations in the year have the potential to overcome the issues they face and get their growth plans back on track. Octopus Ventures will continue to work with them to help them realise their ambitions. In some cases, if a company is achieving
its performance milestones, the support offered could include further funding, to ensure a business has the capital it needs to execute on its strategy.

Conversely, 6 companies saw an increase in valuation in the period, delivering a collective increase in valuation of £2.9 million. These valuation increases reflect businesses which have successfully concluded further funding rounds, grown revenues or met certain important milestones. Notable strong performers in the portfolio include Neat and TitanML, both of which have shown impressive capital efficient growth. These strong performers demonstrate that there are opportunities available for companies to scale.

At this early stage of the Company’s life cycle, it is to be anticipated that failures will likely precede valuation growth, which takes longer as the portfolio companies have to achieve their agreed milestones and mature.

The gain on Future Generation’s uninvested cash reserves was £0.9 million in the twelve months to 30 June 2024 (31 December 2023: gain of £0.5 million), driven by returns on money market funds. The Board’s objective for these investments is to generate sufficient returns through the cycle to cover costs, at limited risk to capital.

Outlook
We are pleased to report the Company’s first disposal as it was agreed that Cobee (an employee benefits and engagement platform) will be acquired by Pluxee Group as part of its strategic growth plan. The transaction is subject to approval by the Spanish regulatory authorities over the coming months, so we look forward to reporting further after completion has taken place. The transaction is a great result for the Company at such an early point in its investment lifecycle and a good proof point of the investment strategy.

The decline in NAV over the six-month period is disappointing but attributable to both the stage of the Company and the headwinds the portfolio companies have been facing. We continue to closely monitor the portfolio to ensure support and resources are being directed in the most impactful way, both through Octopus-appointed non-executive directors or monitors on the Boards and our in-house People and Talent team. This team works directly with the portfolio company management teams, offering training and recruitment support to ensure the best talent pool is being explored to help drive success in this more challenging climate.

We are excited to have the opportunity to continue to scale the Company, support its ambition to make the world a better place for future generations, and hope to deliver attractive returns to shareholders.

Directors’ responsibilities statement

The Directors confirm that to the best of their knowledge:

the financial statements for the twelve months ended 30 June 2024 have been prepared in accordance with ‘Financial Reporting Standard 104: Interim Financial Reporting’ issued by the Financial Reporting Council;
the financial statements give a true and fair view of the assets, liabilities, financial position and profit or loss of the Company;
the report includes a fair review of the information required by the Financial Conduct Authority Disclosure Guidance and Transparency Rules, being:
- we have disclosed an indication of the important events that have occurred during the twelve months of the period and their impact on the set of financial statements;
- we have disclosed a description of the principal risks and uncertainties for the remaining six months of the period; and
- we have disclosed a description of related party transactions that have taken place in the twelve months of the current financial period, that may have materially affected the financial position or performance of the Company during that period and any changes in the related party transactions described in the last annual report that could do so.

By order of the Board

Helen Sinclair
Chair
27 September 2024

Income statement

	Unaudited			Unaudited			Audited
	Twelve months to 30 June 2024			Six months to 31 December 2023			Year to 30 June 2023
	Revenue	Capital	Total	Revenue	Capital	Total	Revenue	Capital	Total
	£’000	£’000	£’000	£’000	£’000	£’000	£’000	£’000	£’000
Net loss on valuation of fixed asset investments	—	(3,495)	(3,495)	—	(136)	(136)	—	(6)	(6)
Investment management fees	(238)	(712)	(950)	(117)	(350)	(467)	(174)	(522)	(696)
Investment income	973	—	973	515	—	515	424	—	424
Other expenses	(535)	—	(535)	(246)	—	(246)	(500)	—	(500)
Profit/ (loss) before tax	200	(4,207)	(4,007)	152	(486)	(334)	(250)	(528)	(778)
Tax	—	—	—	—	—	—	—	—	—
Profit/ (loss) after tax	200	(4,207)	(4,007)	152	(486)	(334)	(250)	(528)	(778)
Earnings per share – basic and diluted	0.4p	(8.4)p	(8.0)p	0.3p	(1.0)p	(0.7)p	(0.6)p	(1.3)p	(1.9)p

The ‘Total’ column of this statement is the profit and loss account of Future Generations VCT; the supplementary revenue return and capital return columns have been prepared under guidance published by the Association of Investment Companies.
All revenue and capital items in the above statement derive from continuing operations.
Future Generations VCT has only one class of business and derives its income from investments made in shares and securities and from bank and money market funds. Future Generations VCT has no other comprehensive income for the period.

The accompanying notes form an integral part of the financial statements.

Balance sheet

	Unaudited		Unaudited		Audited
	As at 30 June 2024		As at 31 December 2023		As at 30 June 2023
	£’000	£’000	£’000	£’000	£’000	£’000
Fixed asset investments		28,566		26,729		24,895
Current assets:
Applications cash*	153		100		370
Debtors	212		240		379
Cash at bank	192		107		152
Money market funds	17,265		19,998		20,140
		17,822		20,445		21,041
Creditors: amounts falling due within one year	(256)		(177)		(518)
Net current assets		17,566		20,268		20,523

Net assets		46,132		46,997		45,418

Share capital		53		50		48
Share premium		51,177		48,372		46,461
Capital reserve realised		(1,352)		(990)		(640)
Capital reserve unrealised		(3,492)		(133)		3
Revenue reserve		(254)		(302)		(454)
Total equity shareholders’ funds		46,132		46,997		45,418
Net asset value per share		86.8p		93.7p		94.3p

* Cash received from investors but not yet allotted.

The accompanying notes form an integral part of the financial statements.

The statements were approved by the Directors and authorised for issue on 27 September 2024 and are signed on their behalf by:

Helen Sinclair
Chair
Company Number: 13750143

Statement of changes in equity

	Share capital £’000	Share premium £’000	Capital reserve realised £’000	Capital reserve unrealised £’000	Revenue reserve £’000	Total £’000
As at 1 July 2023	48	46,461	(640)	3	(454)	45,418
Comprehensive income for the year:
Management fees allocated as capital expenditure	—	—	(712)	—	—	(712)
Net loss on fair value of fixed asset investments	—	—	—	(3,495)	—	(3,495)
Profit after tax	—	—	—	—	200	200
Total comprehensive income for the year	—	—	(712)	(3,495)	200	(4,007)
Contributions by and distributions to owners:
Shares issued	5	4,814	—	—	—	4,819
Share issue costs	—	(98)	—	—	—	(98)
Total contributions by and distributions to owners	5	4,716	—	—	—	4,721
Balance as at 30 June 2024	53	51,177	(1,352)	(3,492)	(254)	46,132

The accompanying notes form an integral part of the financial statements.

	Share capital £’000	Share premium £’000	Capital reserve realised £’000	Capital reserve unrealised £’000	Revenue reserve £’000	Total £’000
As at 1 July 2023	48	46,461	(640)	3	(454)	45,418
Comprehensive income for the year:
Management fees allocated as capital expenditure	—	—	(350)	—	—	(350)
Net loss on fair value of fixed asset investments	—	—	—	(136)	—	(136)
Profit after tax	—	—	—	—	152	152
Total comprehensive income for the year	—	—	(350)	(136)	152	(334)
Contributions by and distributions to owners:
Shares issued	2	1,971	—	—	—	1,973
Share issue costs	—	(60)	—	—	—	(60)
Total contributions by and distributions to owners	2	1,911	—	—	—	1,913
Balance as at 31 December 2023	50	48,372	(990)	(133)	(302)	46,997

The accompanying notes form an integral part of the financial statements.

	Share capital £’000	Share premium £’000	Capital reserve realised £’000	Capital reserve unrealised £’000	Revenue reserve £’000	Total £’000
As at 1 July 2022	33	31,572	(118)	9	(204)	31,292
Comprehensive income for the year:
Management fees allocated as capital expenditure	—	—	(522)	—	—	(522)
Net loss on fair value of fixed asset investments	—	—	—	(6)	—	(6)
Loss after tax	—	—	—	—	(250)	(250)
Total comprehensive income for the year	—	—	(522)	(6)	(250)	(778)
Contributions by and distributions to owners:
Shares issued	15	15,164	—	—	—	15,179
Share issue costs	—	(275)	—	—	—	(275)
Total contributions by and distributions to owners	15	14,889	—	—	—	14,904
Balance as at 30 June 2023	48	46,461	(640)	3	(454)	45,418

The accompanying notes form an integral part of the financial statements.

Cash flow statement

	Unaudited	Unaudited	Audited
	Twelve months to	Six months to	Year to
	30 June	31 December	30 June
	2024	2023	2023
	£’000	£’000	£’000
Cash flows from operating activities
Loss before tax	(4,007)	(334)	(778)
Loss on valuation of fixed asset investments	3,495	136	6
Decrease/(increase) in debtors	167	138	(103)
Decrease in creditors	(45)	(71)	(325)
Outflow from operating activities	(390)	(131)	(1,200)
Cash flows from investing activities
Purchase of fixed asset investments	(7,166)	(1,970)	(23,238)
Outflow from investing activities	(7,166)	(1,970)	(23,238)
Cash flows from financing activities
Application account inflow	4,602	1,685	13,634
Application account outflow Proceed from share issues	(4,819) 4,819	(1,955) 1,955	(15,179) 15,179
Share issue costs	(98)	(41)	(275)
Inflow from financing activities	4,504	1,644	13,359
Decrease in cash and cash equivalents	(3,052)	(456)	(11,079)
Opening cash and cash equivalents	20,662	20,662	31,741
Closing cash and cash equivalents	17,610	20,206	20,662
Cash and cash equivalents comprise
Money Market Funds	17,265	19,998	20,140
Cash at Bank Applications cash	192 153	107 100	152 370
Closing cash and cash equivalents	17,610	20,205	20,662

The accompanying notes form an integral part of the financial statements.

Condensed notes to the financial report

1. Basis of preparation
The unaudited results which cover the twelve months to 30 June 2024 have been prepared in accordance with the Financial Reporting Council’s (FRC) Financial Reporting Standard 104 Interim Financial Reporting (January 2022) and the Statement of Recommended Practice (SORP) for Investment Companies re-issued by the Association of Investment Companies in July 2022.

The Directors consider it appropriate to adopt the going concern basis of accounting. The Directors have not identified any material uncertainties to the Company’s ability to continue to adopt the going concern basis over a period of at least twelve months from the date of approval of the financial statements. In reaching this conclusion, the Directors have taken into account the potential impact on the economy including inflation and the recession.

The principal accounting policies have remained unchanged from those set out in the Company’s 2023 Annual Report and Accounts.

2. Publication of non-statutory accounts
The unaudited financial report for the twelve months ended 30 June 2024 does not constitute Statutory Accounts within the meaning of s.415 of the Companies Act 2006 and has not been delivered to the Registrar of Companies. The comparative figures for the year ended 30 June 2023 have been extracted from the audited financial statements for that year, which have been delivered to the Registrar of Companies. The independent auditor’s report on those financial statements, in accordance with Chapter 3, Part 16 of the Companies Act 2006, was unqualified. This financial report has not been reviewed by the Company’s auditor.

3. Earnings per share
The loss per share is based on 50,107,452 Ordinary shares (30 June 2023: 40,987,288, 31 December 2023: 48,725,532) being the weighted average number of shares in issue during the period. There are no potentially dilutive capital instruments in issue and so no diluted returns per share figures are relevant. The basic and diluted earnings per share are therefore identical.

4. Net asset value per share

	30 June 2024	31 December 2023	30 June 2023
Net assets (£’000)	46,132	46,997	45,418
Shares in issue	53,160,670	50,165,822	48,138,337
Net asset value per share (p)	86.8	93.7	94.3

5. Allotments
During the twelve months to 30 June 2024, 5,022,333 shares were issued at a weighted average price of 95.2p (30 June 2023: 15,569,169 shares at a weighted average price of 98.6p, 31 December 2023: 2,027,485 shares at a weighted average price of 97.3p per share).

6. Transactions with the Manager and Portfolio Manager
Future Generations VCT is classified as a full-scope Alternative Investment Fund (AIF) under the Alternative Investment Fund Management Directive (the ‘AIFM Directive’). Future Generations VCT has appointed Octopus AIF Management Limited to provide the services of an Alternative Investment Fund Manager (AIFM) of a full scope AIF. In accordance with its power to do so under AIFMD, Octopus AIF Management Limited has delegated portfolio management to Octopus Investments Limited, whilst retaining the obligations of a risk manager.

Future Generations VCT paid Octopus AIF Management Limited £950,000 in the period as a management fee (30 June 2023: £696,000, 31 December 2023: £467,000). The annual management charge (AMC) is based on 2% of Future Generations VCT’s NAV. The AMC is payable quarterly in advance and calculated using the latest published NAV of Future Generations VCT and the number of shares in issue at each quarter end. Once the quarter has ended, an adjustment will be made if the NAV at the end of the current quarter is calculated and which differs from the NAV as at the end of the previous quarter.

Octopus also provides Non-Investment Services to Future Generations VCT, payable quarterly in advance. The fee is 0.3% of Future Generations VCT’s NAV, calculated at quarterly intervals. The Non-Investment Services Agreement (NISA) fee is calculated using the latest published NAV of Future Generations VCT and the number of shares in issue at each quarter end. As with the AMC, an adjustment will be made once the quarter has ended if the NAV at the end of the current quarter is calculated and which differs from the NAV as at the end of the previous quarter. During the period £143,000 was paid to Octopus for Non-Investment Services (30 June 2023: £122,000, 31 December 2023: £70,000).

In addition, Octopus is entitled to performance-related incentive fees, subject to Future Generations VCT’s total return at year end exceeding the total return at the previous year end when an incentive fee was paid or 97p if the first incentive fee has not yet been paid (the ‘Excess’), equal to 20% of the Excess. Future Generations VCT’s total return at year end exceeded the total return at the previous year end when an incentive fee was paid or 97p if the first incentive fee has not yet been paid (the ‘Excess’), equal to 20% of the Excess. No performance fee will be paid prior to the financial period ending 30 June 2025, dividends (paid or declared) being equal to or greater than 10p per Ordinary share and the total return exceeding 120p.

The cap relating to Future Generations VCT’s total expense ratio, that is the regular, recurring costs of Future Generations VCT expressed as a percentage of its NAV, above which Octopus have agreed to pay, is 3.0%, and is calculated in accordance with the AIC Guidelines.

7. Related party transactions
Several members of the Octopus investment team hold non-executive directorships as part of their monitoring roles in Future Generations VCT’s portfolio companies, but they have no controlling interests in those companies.

Emma Davies, a former Non-Executive Director of Future Generations VCT, previously held the role of co-CEO of Octopus Ventures. On 24 March 2023, Emma Davies ceased to be employed by Octopus Capital Limited and therefore she is no longer considered a related party. Emma retired as a Non-Executive Director of Future Generations VCT on 31 March 2024.

No dividends have been paid to the Directors of Future Generations VCT.

8. Voting rights and equity management
The following table shows the percentage voting rights held by Future Generations VCT in each of the top ten investments, on a fully diluted basis.

Investments	30 June 2024 % voting rights held by Future Generations VCT
Perk Finance, S.L. t/a Cobee	2.8%
HelloSelf Limited	4.1%
Neat SAS	3.2%
Infinitopes Ltd	4.4%
TYTN Ltd (t/a TitanML)	4.2%
Mr & Mrs Oliver Ltd (t/a Skin + Me)	0.6%
Apheris AI GmbH	3.2%
Remofirst, Inc.	1.4%
Intrinsic Semiconductor Technologies Ltd	5.1%
Inflow Holdings Inc.	1.9%

9. Post balance sheet events
The following events occurred between the balance sheet date and the signing of this financial report:
● 2 new investments completed totalling £0.5 million.

10. Financial Report
The unaudited results which cover the twelve months to 30 June 2024 will shortly be available to view at https://octopusinvestments.com/our-products/venture-capital-trusts/octopus-future-generations-vct/ .
A copy of the report will be submitted to the National Storage Mechanism and will shortly be available for inspection at: https://data.fca.org.uk/#/nsm/nationalstoragemechanism

For further information please contact:

Rachel Peat
Octopus Company Secretarial Services Limited
Tel: +44 (0)80 0316 2067

LEI: 213800AL71Z7N2O58N66

The MIL Network –

September 29, 2024

MIL-OSI: Worldcoin Introduces Face Auth: The New Tool to Protect Your Identity with Maximum Security
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
- Face Auth provides enhanced security by ensuring that only the verified user can access their World ID (a digital passport of humanity). It is fully encrypted and operates entirely on the user’s device.
- Developed by Sam Altman and Alex Blania in 2019, Worldcoin’s humanity verification services, World ID, now have more than 6 million verified users and 12 million app downloads globally. In Mexico, they have been available since late 2023 in Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Monterrey.
MEXICO CITY, Sept. 27, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Worldcoin announced today the launch of Face Auth, the new security feature for World ID, designed to ensure that only the person who was verified in an orb, a state-of-the-art camera that converts an iris image into code, can use it.

This marks a significant step towards secure, privacy-focused identity verification for online activities, financial transactions, and more. Worldcoin’s mission is to create a secure way to verify your identity without compromising your privacy in a world where it’s increasingly difficult to distinguish between humans and bots. The project aims to address these challenges by offering a simple and anonymous way to verify that a person is human without revealing their identity.

Face Auth is the latest addition to Worldcoin’s suite of privacy-enhancing technologies. It is a method that verifies identity by comparing a selfie taken in real-time with an image stored on the phone during the creation of the World ID. This ensures that only the true owner of the World ID can use it, protecting against fraud or unauthorized access, as the comparison is done directly on the user’s device.

How Does Face Auth Work?
- Selfie Capture: When using Face Auth, the user will be asked to take a selfie through the World app on their phone.
- Comparison: The app compares this selfie with the high-resolution image taken during verification in the orb, which is securely and encrypted stored on the user’s phone.
- Verification: If the two images match, Face Auth verifies the user and allows them to proceed with their transaction or login.
To see how the new Face Auth feature works, check out the short demo video here.

For users, Face Auth will be as familiar as any other facial recognition technology in the apps they commonly use on their smartphones, but with one key difference: Face Auth ensures that the person using the World app is the same person who created the World ID in an orb. Unlike other facial recognition tools linked to device hardware, Face Auth is linked to the app. This approach guarantees that only the verified person can access the World ID, reducing the risk of fraud.

The entire authentication process takes place on the user’s phone, with encryption ensuring privacy. Neither Tools for Humanity nor Worldcoin have access to the data.

“We want all our users to have the confidence to verify themselves, with the assurance that their identity and personal data are protected,” stated Tools for Humanity Mexico.

Artificial intelligence makes it harder to distinguish between humans and bots online. Worldcoin’s World ID is an innovative digital passport of humanity that allows people to certify online that they are human and unique without revealing who they are. World ID offers a secure method for providing “proof of humanity” while allowing individuals to maintain control and privacy over their data. Worldcoin does not need to know who you are, only that you are a unique human being.

You can watch the “Privacy in the Age of AI” explainer video series here.

About the Worldcoin Protocol
The Worldcoin protocol is designed to be the world’s largest and most inclusive public financial and identity utility, accessible to everyone. Worldcoin was originally conceived by Sam Altman, Alex Blania, and Max Novendstern. The Worldcoin protocol is designed to equip individuals and organizations worldwide with the tools they need to participate in the digital economy and advance human progress. Learn more about Worldcoin at www.worldcoin.org, on Twitter/X, Discord, YouTube, and Telegram.

About the Worldcoin Foundation
The Worldcoin Foundation, administrator of the Worldcoin protocol, aims to create more inclusive, fair, and equitable digital governance institutions and a global economy.

About Tools for Humanity (TFH)
Tools for Humanity is a technology company created to ensure a more equitable economic system, and the driving force behind the Worldcoin project. Founded in 2019 by Alex Blania (CEO) and Sam Altman (President), it is headquartered in San Francisco, California, and Erlangen, Germany.

Photos accompanying this announcement are available at

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/1485e857-73f5-4929-bc7d-e7ebe5e95f70

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/e3772b57-6746-48dd-8b9b-43810a173aa4

The MIL Network –
September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI Video: Coast Guard rescues man and dog during Hurricane Helene

Source: US Coast Guard (video statements)

A Coast Guard Air Station Clearwater helicopter crew rescued a man and dog from a disabled and taking-on-water 36-foot sailing vessel 25 miles off Sanibel Island, Florida, on Sept. 26, 2024. The man and his dog were reportedly in good health and taken to Southwest Florida International Airport to meet with EMS. (U.S. Coast Guard video by Air Station Clearwater)

Download the video here: https://www.dvidshub.net/video/938165/coast-guard-rescues-man-and-dog-during-hurricane-helene

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1B1dnSf6rPk

MIL OSI Video –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI Global: Five classic concept albums that will take you on a sonic road-trip across America

Source: The Conversation – UK – By David Scott, Head of Division, School of Business and Creative Industries, University of the West of Scotland

The concept album is often viewed as an art form that is primarily focused on lyrical storytelling. But in these five key records, musical ambition, performance and production combine to take the listener on a road-trip through America.

1. Gunfighter Ballads and Trail Songs by Marty Robbins (1959)

Gunfighter Ballads and Trail Songs, by Marty Robbins, has rightly been lauded as one of the most important artworks of the 20th century – indeed it was preserved in the Library of Congress in 2017.

The thematic album transports the listener into a mythical west. Each song tells its own story, but there is a distinct unity of characterisation. The tearful convict awaiting death in They’re Hanging Me Tonight might well be an alter ego of the desert rider, hallucinating and desperate in Cool Water. Or even the ebullient narrator celebrating his own American dream in A Hundred and Sixty Acres.

Marty Robbins performing El Paso.

The album’s arrangements are mostly simple and stripped back, allowing Robbins’ extraordinary vocal performances and expressive backing vocal arrangements to fly. This reaches a stylistic peak in his greatest song, the white-knuckle ride of El Paso, wherein our protagonist willingly throws himself into a living hell.

2. Smile by Brian Wilson (2004)

The Beach Boys released 15 studio albums in the 1960s. Their voluminous output represented one of the most supercharged evolutions in contemporary music – fired by the imagination, energy and ambition of Brian Wilson.

In 1965, in partnership with lyricist Mike Love, Wilson was extolling the virtues of California girls. Just a few months later, he was creating the mature, introspective humanity of Pet Sounds with collaborator Tony Asher. From there Wilson engaged lyricist Van Dyke Parks to help him realise an “American gothic trip”. Smile describes a journey across the country on the “ribbon of concrete”, or along the railroad with the early settlers.

Heroes and Villains by Brian Wilson, from Smile.

One key track on Smile, Heroes and Villains, took its narrative cue directly from Marty Robbins’ El Paso. But others – Cabin Essence and Surf’s Up – painted a new old west and still feel revolutionary today. However, the album became most famous for being left unfinished for 34 years, with snippets appearing piecemeal before its completion as a new recording by Brian Wilson in 2004.

Van Dyke Park’s lyrics remain intriguing and unique. But I’d argue the real conceptual unity of Smile comes from its musical design. This is an album about American music as much as it is about America. It’s a kaleidoscope of Gershwin, Ives, Bernstein and goofy doo-wop, scaffolded by unexpected and rich textural juxtapositions (double bass, banjo and backing vocals going “boing boing” anyone?). And, of course, there’s the peerless vocal performances of The Beach Boys.

3. The Delta Sweete by Bobbie Gentry (1968)

Bobbie Gentry’s The Delta Sweete is another concept album that looks at both America (in this case the Mississippi Delta) and American music.

Gentry first found fame with Ode to Billie Joe, a narrative ballad that became a major hit single. In The Delta Sweete, Gentry blended her own distinctive vignettes of southern life with skilfully curated covers of classics, like Mose Allison’s Parchman Farm.

In Reunion, Gentry invites listeners into the front parlour of an alternately loving and warring southern family. She illustrates the scene by interweaving dialogue, vocal chants and rhythmic solo cello. Elsewhere we meet the swaggering, comedic Okolona River Bottom Band and experience a southern gothic nightmare in Refractions.

Bobbie Gentry performs Courtyard.

The sense of journey is enhanced by a series of orchestral pieces that link each of the 12 tracks. So when we finally alight on the solitude of the closing track, Courtyard, there is a feeling of coming home.

The ambition of The Delta Sweete was not met with commercial success, but Gentry never quite gave up the conceptual flame. Her follow up – Local Gentry, in 1968 – shared some of the same approach to musical portraiture. And in her final studio album, Patchwork (1971), she returned to a series of vignettes with orchestral links. All make for essential listening.

4. What’s Going On by Marvin Gaye (1971)

From a journey across America, to a journey across the Mississippi Delta, we turn now to the streets of 1971 inner-city America, via Marvin Gaye’s masterly record, What’s Going On.

This album represented a clear shift in Gaye’s artistic voice towards commentary, question and critique, against the will of Motown Records boss Berry Gordy resulting in a standoff during which Gaye threatened never to record for the label again. What’s Going On is perhaps most famous for its engagement with the social and political issues of the day, but the ambition of the music, performance and sound stand up thrillingly, 55 years after its release.

A new music video for What’s Going On by Marvin Gaye, released in 2019.

Motown Records house arranger David Van De Pitte set congas and guiros against sweeping orchestral arrangements, glockenspiel, choirs and jazz influences. The juxtaposition of tempo and feel created by transitions between the tracks hold you there as listener, walking around Gaye’s landscape, and seeing it through his eyes.

The key sound of What’s Going On though – and the element that most solidifies its status as a conceptual album – is the approach taken with the vocals. Different takes of the same song overlap, and different ad libs collide and diverge as choral passages peek out from the background. These are the voices talking to Gaye during his walk through the inner city of What’s Going On.

5. Cowboy Carter by Beyoncé (2024)

Cowboy Carter’s conceptual birth sprang from the artist’s performance at the 2016 Country Association Awards, where prejudiced questions were raised (in the room and online) about Beyonce’s legitimacy and place in the context of a country music performance. Her ultimate response was this detailed exploration, celebration and critique that gets under the skin of American music itself. Beyoncé creates a searing and detailed a commentary on, and road-map to, American music.

Read more:
The genius of Cowboy Carter is Beyoncé’s accent – a musicologist explains

Jolene by Beyoncé.

Big questions around the origin and evolution of genre are asked via the medium of a Jolene cover, use of the banjo, impressionistic music arrangements and flights of performative imagination.

There are spoken inserts (from Linda Martell, Willie Nelson and Dolly Parton) and striking musical juxtapositions. Like other albums on this list, Cowboy Carter’s conceptual veracity springs as much from this kaleidoscopic approach to sound as from the central narrative at its heart.

In this collage we hear new songs, interpretations of classic songs and quotes from American classics, including one from The Beach Boys’ Smile – Good Vibrations.

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

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

– ref. Five classic concept albums that will take you on a sonic road-trip across America – https://theconversation.com/five-classic-concept-albums-that-will-take-you-on-a-sonic-road-trip-across-america-239011

MIL OSI – Global Reports –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI Global: Chess: a game rooted in military strategy that has become a tool of international diplomacy

Source: The Conversation – UK – By Becky Alexis-Martin, Peace Studies and International Development, University of Bradford

Hushed silence descends as two opponents engage in a battle of wits, memory and strategy. The atmosphere becomes more tense with each shuffle of a pawn or sweeping arc of the queen. The drama is palpable, but there can be only one winner. This year – at the 45th Chess Olympiad finals in Budapest – it was India, whose players won both men’s and women’s gold medals and four individual golds, signalling a new era of Indian domination.

Chess has become more than just a game. The recent upholding of the bans on Russian and Belorussian players from international competition by the International Chess Federation (Fide) is an example of the soft power of sanctions as a geopolitical tool against the Russian invasion of Ukraine. This ban has been welcomed by the US and Ukraine, among others, although Fide was divided on the issue, with 41 delegates voting to uphold the ban while 21 countries favoured lifting the ban and 27 abstained or were absent.

Over the centuries, chess – which has its roots in military strategy – has become a symbol of geopolitical competition made peaceful. The game’s first incarnation has been traced back to 6th-century India, as military generals sought a pastime to exercise strategic thinking.

The original game of chess was named chaturanga, which translates from Sanskrit into “the four military divisions”. The game allowed leaders to simulate conflict by using reasoning and logic to contemplate future battles. The term “checkmate” itself derives from “shah mat”, which loosely translates to “the king has lost” in Persian and Sanskrit.

Cold war rivalries

Chess was to become the focus of international, cultural and political competition during the cold war. It captured the world’s political imagination as a symbolic battleground between east and west. The Soviet Union supported promising chess players by establishing chess schools. Soviet grandmasters were unbeatable national heroes, from Mikhail Botvinnik to Tigran Petrosian and Boris Spassky. Their victories were framed as evidence of socialist intellectual superiority.

But American grandmaster Bobby Fischer disrupted 24 years of Soviet dominance when he beat Spassky at the 1972 World Chess Championships in Rekjavik, Iceland. It would become a critical moment in the cold war.

For years chess had been seen by both the Soviet Union and the US as a proxy for superpower military competition. Unlike US-Chinese “ping-pong diplomacy” – when goodwill between US and Chinese players in the early 1970s was followed by enhanced diplomatic engagement between the two countries – Fischer’s defeat of Spassky ended more than 20 years of Russian domination of chess.

The prospect that Fischer might win was seen as so important by the US government that the then secretary of state, Henry Kissinger, personally called Fischer to urge him to go to Rekjavik.

Years later, Russian former world champion and dissident Garry Kasparov recalled that: “This event was treated by people on both sides of the Atlantic as a crushing moment in the midst of the cold war. Big intellectual victory for the United States, and you know, a hugely painful, almost insulting defeat for the Soviet Union.”

A game for dissidents

Chess does not exist in a vacuum. It is shaped by and reflects historical rivalries, the rise of new power and contemporary geopolitics. And along the way, their refusal to maintain the national status quo and instead articulate their concerns about their societies has led to several grandmasters from various countries having to go into political exile.

Garry Kasparov’s pro-democracy advocacy and criticism of the Russian state led him to flee Russia with his family to New York in 2013. He was chairman of the Human Rights Foundation from until 2024, and has since been added to Vladimir Putin’s terrorist blacklist.

Kasparov is in good company. Six of Iran’s female grandmasters have been forced to leave their country, fleeing their country’s oppressive patriarchal regime after being barred from national competition for playing without a headscarf.

Sara Khadem fled to Spain with her family after refusing to wear the hijab during a match in Kazakhstan in 2022. Her family have since gained Spanish citizenship. However, women who cannot find citizenship elsewhere pay a steep price as their talents are not nurtured and they cannot play professionally. Mitra Hejazipour waited three and a half years to gain citizenship. In 2023, she consecutively became a French citizen and the French national women’s champion.

Ukrainian players continue to use chess as a platform for resistance against the Russian invasion. Prominent players who have spoken out include Vasyl Ivanchuk, Anna Muzychuk and her sister Mariya. Anna has consistently used her global social media following to condemn the invasion and advocate for peace in Ukraine.

Projects in Rwanda, Uganda and Palestine have demonstrated that chess is more than just a game by bringing together disparate communities. So by sanctioning Russia and Belarus, the International Chess Federation has made an important statement.

Chess can be a form of cultural diplomacy, a symbol of non-violent conflict resolution, and a platform for dialogue and understanding between people and nations. Chess is its own universal language. It requires no common tongue or expensive kit, yet it offers a formidable tool to promote critical thinking, international cooperation and conflict resolution.

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

– ref. Chess: a game rooted in military strategy that has become a tool of international diplomacy – https://theconversation.com/chess-a-game-rooted-in-military-strategy-that-has-become-a-tool-of-international-diplomacy-239739

MIL OSI – Global Reports –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI Global: Will Meta’s Orion smart glasses be the next ‘iPhone moment’? Expert Q&A

Source: The Conversation – UK – By Llŷr ap Cenydd, Lecturer in Computer Science, Bangor University

Meta supremo Mark Zuckerberg unveiled Orion smart glasses, a new augmented reality (AR) prototype, at the annual Meta Connect developer conference. Ten years in the making, and still not expected on high streets until 2027, these will be a new way to meld the real and digital worlds. They will be controlled by the eyes and also the fingers via a neural interface on the wrist.

So what does this mean for the future of AR wearables and how we interface with computers? We asked three tech specialists at the University of Bangor, Peter Butcher, Llŷr ap Cenydd and Panagiotis Ritsos.

Why has Orion been such a technical challenge?

There are serious technical challenges in packing so much sophisticated technology into something so compact. This includes new holographic display technology, hand and eye tracking, off-device processing, cameras, speakers and microphones – all while ensuring the device remains aesthetically appealing and has decent battery life.

Meta’s chief tech officer, Andrew Bosworth, recently captured the scale of the challenge by saying: “In consumer electronics, it might be the most advanced thing that we’ve ever produced as a species.”

The optical design is a huge challenge. Mixed reality headsets such as Meta Quest 3 and Apple Vision Pro rely on “passthrough” technology, in which external cameras capture real-time video of the user’s surroundings. This is displayed inside the headset, with digital elements overlaid.

In contrast, Orion’s holographic projection allows users to directly see through transparent lenses, with graphics projected into their view. This has demanded substantial R&D.

Are there other notable innovations?

One key factor that determines the immersiveness of mixed reality headsets is their field of view, meaning the angular range that the viewer can see through the headset. The state of the art is the 70° field of view of the Magic Leap 2, bigger holographic AR glasses aimed at businesses currently priced above US$3,000 (£2,240)]. They are made by Magic Leap, a US company whose backers include Google and AT&T.

With Orion, Meta has achieved a field of view of 70° in a much smaller product, which is a grand innovation and crucial for Zuckerberg’s vision of an unobtrusive wearable device.

The neural interface wristband is also vital. It listens to nerve impulses from the brain to the hand, allowing users to control the device using subtle finger gestures such as pinching and swiping thumb against index finger. Newer mixed reality headsets such as Apple Vision Pro are controlled similarly, but rely on external cameras to interpret hand movements.

An advantage of tapping into nerve impulses directly is that gestures do not require line of sight, and eventually might not even require the person to perform the full gesture – only to think about it. The technology also opens up brand new input methods, such as texting via mimicking handwriting, and is likely to mature before consumer-grade holographic displays become available.

Has Orion been more trouble than Meta expected?

Meta initially gave the Orion prototype only a 10% chance of success, so it has exceeded expectations. While there is still much work to be done, particularly in reducing costs and miniaturising components, Orion could eventually lead to a consumer-ready device.

Do you think Meta will get an affordable version launched by 2027?

Meta thinks the initial price will be comparable to flagship phones or laptops the new iPhone 16 starts at £799. We might see development kits released towards the end of the decade, aimed at early adopters and developers, much like how VR headsets were introduced a decade ago.

In the meantime, other AR glasses and mixed reality headsets such as Meta Quest 3 and Apple Vision Pro serve as platforms for developing applications that could eventually run on AR glasses.

Why are the Orion glasses still so expensive?

Holographic AR glasses remain expensive because much of the hardware – including Ledos micro-display panels and silicon carbide waveguides (which are used to optimise light transmission) – isn’t yet produced at scale. These components are critical for achieving high resolution and holographic displays – and production constraints are reportedly pushing Orion unit prices close to US$10,000. Even then, battery life is currently limited to around two hours.

Could anyone potentially beat Meta to market?

Thanks to Meta’s multi-billion dollar investment in R&D through its Reality Labs subsidiary, it has become a leader in virtual and mixed reality headsets, with a robust app ecosystem. However, Apple, Microsoft, Samsung and Google are developing similar technologies.

Microsoft’s HoloLens and [Snapchat owner] Snap Inc’s Spectacles series have made strides in AR, but responses have been mixed due to limitations such as narrow fields of view and lower graphics quality. Orion appears to be ahead in holographic display technology. Another company to particularly watch is Apple, which is refining Vision Pro and also exploring AR smart glasses.

Will AR glasses change the world?

AR glasses could ignite a transformative “iPhone moment” that redefines how we interact with technology. Zuckerberg envisions them as the next major computing platform, offering a more natural and intuitive alternative to smartphones.

The success of early mass-market smart glasses such as Meta’s Ray-Ban glasses, which allow users to make calls, capture videos and interact with Meta AI, hints that AR glasses could see widespread adoption.

Zuckerberg initially believed holographic technology would be necessary for smart glasses to offer functionality beyond the basic features of these Ray-Bans. But being able to incorporate an AI voice-powered assistant has made Meta realise that smart glasses can be developed from the ground up as a new consumer product category. While the four-hour battery life requires improvement, the positive feedback from both reviewers and users, particularly using them on Instagram and TikTok, demonstrates the potential.

What does the future look like?

Reading messages, watching a virtual screen on the wall, playing games, collaborative work – all the things you can do with mixed-reality headsets, but shrunk down to a pair of glasses. Friends will teleport into your living room, a video call where both people feel present in the same space.

It gets even stranger when you incorporate AI: virtual assistants can already see what you see, hear what you hear, talk to you, answer questions and follow commands using smart glasses. In future, AI will be able to manifest itself in your vision, and you’ll be able to have natural conversations with it.

By 2030, AI will radically change the ways in which we interact with each other, our physical world and computers. Orion aims to prepare us for a world in which the physical, artificial and virtual co-exist.

Llŷr ap Cenydd develops VR games for Meta Quest headsets.

Panagiotis Ritsos and Peter Butcher do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

– ref. Will Meta’s Orion smart glasses be the next ‘iPhone moment’? Expert Q&A – https://theconversation.com/will-metas-orion-smart-glasses-be-the-next-iphone-moment-expert-qanda-240029

MIL OSI – Global Reports –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Appointment of Professor Kirstie Blair and Rupert Morley as Trustees of the Kennedy Memorial Trust: 27 September 2024
Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

The Prime Minister has appointed Professor Kirstie Blair and Rupert Morley as Trustees of the Kennedy Memorial Trust.
The Prime Minister has approved the appointments of Professor Kirstie Blair and Rupert Morley as Trustees of the Kennedy Memorial Trust, for a term of five years from 30 September 2024.

Professor Kirstie Blair

Kirstie Blair is Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Humanities at the University of Sterling. She holds an undergraduate degree from the University of Cambridge, and MPhil and DPhil degrees from the University of Oxford. She studied at Harvard University as a Kennedy Scholar.

Rupert Morley

Rupert is Chairman of Pershing Square Holdings, a FTSE 100 company, Chair of Bremont Watches and Trustee for Comic Relief. Rupert holds a degree in economics from Cambridge University and an MBA from Harvard Business School, which he attended as a Kennedy Scholar.

Note for editors

The Kennedy Memorial Trust was established in 1964 to administer monies raised in the United Kingdom as a tribute to the late President John Kennedy. Part of the fund was used to create and maintain the Kennedy Memorial site at Runnymede. The remaining capital is used to provide Kennedy Scholarships which enable British postgraduate students to study at Harvard and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

Trustees are responsible for the selection process for those scholarships and for managing the maintenance of the Kennedy Memorial at Runnymede.

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Published 27 September 2024
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI USA: Williams Statement on Hezbollah’s Attack on Tel Aviv

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Brandon Williams (NY-22)

Williams Statement on Hezbollah’s Attack on Tel Aviv

Washington, September 25, 2024

“David’s Sling has intercepted a ballistic missile over Tel-Aviv, saving countless lives. This escalation is unprecedented, even for Hezbollah’s terrorists. The range and precision of missiles such as these give them the potential to cause great destruction. I am relieved to see that this failed attack resulted in no casualties. We must continue to reaffirm our commitment to our strongest ally in the Middle East—I stand with Israel.”

WASHINGTON — Congressman Brandon Williams (NY-22) issued the following statement upon confirmation that Hezbollah launched a ballistic missile which was intercepted over Tel Aviv, Israel’s second-most populous city:

“David’s Sling has intercepted a ballistic missile over Tel-Aviv, saving countless lives. This escalation is unprecedented, even for Hezbollah’s terrorists. The range and precision of missiles such as these give them the potential to cause great destruction. I am relieved to see that this failed attack resulted in no casualties. We must continue to reaffirm our commitment to our strongest ally in the Middle East—I stand with Israel.”

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MIL OSI USA News –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI USA: Williams on Tragic Death of Oswego Deputy

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Brandon Williams (NY-22)

Williams on Tragic Death of Oswego Deputy

Volney, NY, September 25, 2024

“I’m devastated to learn of the passing of Cailee Campbell. She was one of our best and bravest—tragically killed this morning in the line of duty. She was taken from us far too soon. My prayers are with her family, Sheriff Hilton, and all of her fellow officers.”

VOLNEY — Upon hearing of the tragic death of Oswego County Sheriff’s Deputy Cailee Campbell, Congressman Brandon Williams (NY-22) said the following:

“I’m devastated to learn of the passing of Cailee Campbell. She was one of our best and bravest—tragically killed this morning in the line of duty. She was taken from us far too soon. My prayers are with her family, Sheriff Hilton, and all of her fellow officers.”

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MIL OSI USA News –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI USA: Williams and Bonamici Introduce Legislation to Aid AI Development
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Brandon Williams (NY-22)

“This is the kind of technology that will define the coming eras of human history. To ensure prosperity at home and maintain America’s scientific advantage abroad, we must innovate. We must utilize every resource available to develop newer, stronger, safer tech which, in turn, will spur advances in national security, energy-efficiency, manufacturing, and more,” said Congressman Williams.
WASHINGTON — Today, Congressman Brandon Williams (NY-22) and Suzanne Bonamici (OR-1) introduced the Department of Energy Artificial Intelligence Act of 2024, a bill providing updated guidance for the Department of Energy’s (DOE) activities in developing advanced artificial intelligence (AI) systems to carry out missions pertaining to national security, energy-efficiency, and scientific discovery.

The DOE AI Act of 2024 amends the National Artificial Intelligence Initiative Act of 2020 by updating the section directing a Department of Energy artificial intelligence research program. This bill codifies multiple activities and objectives for DOE’s AI research and development activities, including:

Authorizing the activities of the Frontiers in Artificial Intelligence for Science, Security, and Technology (FASST) initiative, an effort between the DOE and its seventeen National Laboratories to build the most powerful integrated scientific AI systems in the world,

Facilitating the development of high-performance computing systems and artificial intelligence platforms through DOE-owned infrastructure data and computing facilities,

Authorizing at least one data center testbed for the development and assessment of hardware and algorithms for energy-efficient AI training, and

Directing the DOE to establish partnerships with nonprofit organizations and private companies for the purpose of collaboration toward shared goals of scientific discovery and technological innovation in the field of AI.

“This is the kind of technology that will define the coming eras of human history. To ensure prosperity at home and maintain America’s scientific advantage abroad, we must innovate. We must utilize every resource available to develop newer, stronger, safer tech which, in turn, will spur advances in national security, energy-efficiency, manufacturing, and more,” said Congressman Williams.

“Artificial intelligence is evolving rapidly and the government must be equipped to respond to new developments and stay on the cutting edge,” said Congresswoman Bonamici.

“I’m introducing the bipartisan DOE AI Act with Rep. Williams to position the Department of Energy to develop high-performance platforms, responsibly cultivate training data, and improve energy efficiency to support safe AI innovation.”

The full bill is available here.

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MIL OSI USA News –
September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI Canada: Don’t be Alarmed: Tomorrow is Test Your Smoke Alarm Day

Source: Government of Canada regional news

Released on September 27, 2024

According to data from the National Fire Protection Association, nearly three out of five (59 per cent) fire deaths happen in homes with no smoke alarms or smoke alarms that failed to operate. That is one of the reasons why the Government of Saskatchewan and the Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency (SPSA) have proclaimed September 28, 2024, as Test Your Smoke Alarm Day in the province.

Test Your Smoke Alarm Day encourages residents to properly install and maintain smoke alarms in their homes. This is fundamental to ensure that occupants are warned of a fire and have the time needed to escape.

“Smoke alarms save lives,” SPSA President and Fire Commissioner Marlo Pritchard said. “September 28 is the perfect time to test your smoke alarms and change their batteries. Protect yourself and your loved ones by properly installing and maintaining your smoke alarms.”

As of July 2022, all Saskatchewan residential buildings are required to have working smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms.

To learn more about smoke alarms, home fire escape planning and fire safety, visit: saskpublicsafety.ca.

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For more information, contact:

MIL OSI Canada News –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI Canada: Deputy Prime Minister welcomes arrival of the TTC’s new all-electric buses

Source: Government of Canada News

Today in Toronto, the Honourable Chrystia Freeland, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, alongside Gary Anandasangaree, Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations, and Olivia Chow, Mayor of Toronto, highlighted how the federal government is working with the City of Toronto to accelerate public transit for Torontonians.

$349 million federal investment delivering 340 all-electric buses for the TTC

September 27, 2024 – Toronto, Ontario – Department of Finance Canada

Public transit gets Canadians to where they need to be, creates new Canadian manufacturing and construction jobs, reduces pollution and congestion, makes life more affordable, and keeps Canadians and communities connected as they grow. That is why the federal government is investing in better public transit.

Today in Toronto, the Honourable Chrystia Freeland, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, alongside Gary Anandasangaree, Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations, and Olivia Chow, Mayor of Toronto, highlighted how the federal government is working with the City of Toronto to accelerate public transit for Torontonians.

In April 2023, the federal government and the City of Toronto announced a joint investment of $700 million to procure 340 battery-electric buses for the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC). Today, the first two of these 340 electric buses joined the TTC’s fleet, with all 340 electric buses expected to be in service by the end of 2026.

This investment will help the TTC—as the largest public transit system in Canada—achieve its goal of electrifying its entire fleet by 2040.

Building up Toronto’s electric bus fleet is just one part of the federal government’s work to improve public transit in Toronto, and across Canada. To connect people across the Greater Toronto Area, the federal government is investing $10.4 billion in four major public transit projects—the Scarborough Subway Extension, the Eglinton Crosstown LRT, the Ontario Line, and the Yonge North Subway Extension. And, in July, the federal government launched the Canada Public Transit Fund—a permanent ongoing program that will invest an average of $3 billion per year to help cities and communities deliver better public transit systems for Canadians.

Katherine Cuplinskas
Deputy Director of Communications
Office of the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance
Katherine.Cuplinskas@fin.gc.ca

MIL OSI Canada News –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI United Nations: Secretary-General’s remarks to the annual meeting of G77 Foreign Ministers

Source: United Nations secretary general

Mr. President, Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

Let me begin by congratulating Uganda on its leadership of the G77 plus China this year.

And I want to salute your entire membership.

For 60 years – year in and year out — the G77 plus China has been on the frontlines for fairness, equality, justice and solidarity.

You have been the engine driving progress to eradicate poverty, to fight inequalities, to root out injustices in our post-colonial world.

And you have been shining a spotlight on the need for fundamental reforms of the multilateral system.

Reforms of the international financial architecture and the Security Council to make them more legitimate and more effective.

Reforms to make sure our institutions reflect the realities of today’s world and respond to today’s challenges instead of the world and the challenges of 1945.

We have taken some steps forward with the adoption of the Pact for the Future, the Declaration on Future Generations, and the Global Digital Compact.

Of course, not everything we may have hoped for was in the final package.

But none of the achievements would have been possible without your insistence and persistence. If you allow me an image, if you compare the documents that we approved on Sunday with the continued documents of the G7 and the G77, we have to recognize that they are much closer to the documents of the G77. One 7 makes a lot of difference.

I commend the G77 plus China for always pushing for maximum ambition and look forward to working with you as we continue pursuing the justice your countries deserve – and our world needs.

We still have a long way to go.

Our world is on a knife’s edge.

Climate chaos is worsening.

Conflicts are raging.

Human rights are floundering.

Inequality and injustice are eroding trust and undermining the social contract of societies.

The rights of women and girls are being snuffed out.

Entire economies are drowning in debt.

The digital divide is fast becoming a gaping chasm.

And the Sustainable Development Goals are hanging by a thread.

We need action on a number of fronts in line with what was approved in the Summit of the Future.

First, financial justice.

Finance is the fuel to drive progress on sustainable development.

Yet so many countries remain locked out from accessing capital for essential investments.

This situation is unsustainable – and a recipe for social unrest.

That is why we have been pushing for fundamental reforms to the outdated, ineffective and unfair international financial system, and an SDG Stimulus to provide developing countries with the resources they need while seeking medium- and long-term solutions.

We must keep working to make Multilateral Development Banks bigger, bolder and better, enabling them to massively scale up affordable financing for sustainable development, namely in developing countries.

We must expand contingency financing through the recycling of Special Drawing Rights that until now have essentially benefitted rich countries and not those that have needed it the most.

We must promote effective long-term debt restructuring that puts people and planet at the centre.

And we must keep on working for a more inclusive and effective international tax system. I applaud the Ad Hoc Committee for drafting ambitious and practical Terms of Reference for a UN Framework Convention on International Tax Cooperation.

Second, climate justice.

We urgently need supercharged action to reduce emissions and avoid the worst of climate chaos.

This must be in line with the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities, in light of different national circumstances.

Every country must create new national climate action plans – or NDCs – well ahead of COP30, that align with 1.5 degrees and put the world on track to phase out fossil fuels – fast and fairly.

G20 countries – which together produce eighty percent of global emissions – have a responsibility to lead. I am working closely with President Lula of Brazil to drive action in the G20.

And I urge every developing country to make sure new national climate plans double as investment plans and boost sustainable development – harnessing renewables to power prosperity and pull people out of poverty.

The United Nations is mobilizing our entire system to support these efforts through the Climate Promise initiative.

We also need a strong finance outcome – including on innovative finance – from COP29. This also means significant contributions to the new Loss and Damage Fund.

I will continue to press developed countries to honour their promises;

Doubling adaptation funding to at least $40 billion a year by 2025.

Showing concretely how the enormous adaptation finance gap will be closed.

And everyone on earth must be protected by an effective early warning system by 2027.

We must address the injustices of the energy transition.

Developing countries are being locked out of the renewables revolution.

Investments in developing countries outside of China and India are stuck in a time warp reflecting 2015 levels. Africa attracted just 1% of renewable installations last year. It is clear that we must support developing countries to have the resources and the capacity to attract the investments that are necessary for the renewables revolution.

The UN Panel on Critical Energy Transition Minerals has identified ways to ground the renewables revolution in justice and equity, spur sustainable development, and power prosperity in resource rich developing countries.

We must ensure that the race to net zero does not lead to developing countries being trampled underfoot.

Third, technological justice.

Technology must benefit all of humanity.

The Global Digital Compact is a blueprint for how governments, together with tech companies, academia and civil society, can work together to make sure new technologies benefit everybody and to manage the risks they pose – including Artificial Intelligence.

AI has the potential to be an excellent servant but also a dangerous master.

I am pleased that the Compact includes proposals building on the resolution led by China on capacity building for Artificial Intelligence.

The High-Level Advisory Body on AI released its recommendations last week, which include bridging the AI divide through a Global Fund on AI for the SDGs, and an AI Capacity Development Network to boost AI expertise in developing countries.

We must keep working to ensure AI serves everyone, leaving no one behind and it will not be another factor to increase inequalities in the world.

Ministers, Ladies and Gentlemen,

Across a very full agenda, the G77 and China are crucial to building a more just, inclusive and prosperous world.

The G77 was vital in the adoption of the conclusions of the Summit of the Future but its implementation will not be easy. There will be a lot of resistance. The G77 must be an engine to make sure that what we have achieved in the Summit will be translated in effective realities to the benefit of developing countries.

You can count on me in that essential cause.

Thank you.

MIL OSI United Nations News –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Piano man comic David O’Doherty to make welcome return to The Alley

Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

Piano man comic David O’Doherty to make welcome return to The Alley

27 September 2024

Award-winning comedian, author and musician David O’Doherty is bringing his brand new show ‘Tiny Piano Man’ to The Alley Theatre, Strabane on Friday 25^th October 2024

The show features a lot of talking and a few songs on a glued-together plastic keyboard from 1986.

David has previously appeared on TV shows such as Live at the Apollo and 8 out of 10 Cats does Countdown, as well as writing a children’s book, hosted various radio shows and plays.

With over 20 years’ experience entertaining audiences worldwide, O’Doherty is looking forward to impressing the Strabane audience with his hilarious new show.

He first walked out on stage at Dublin’s Comedy Cellar in 1998 and in that time has won the Perrier Award for Best Newcomer and the Main Award.
He thrilled crowds at The Alley last year when performing his ‘Whoa Is Me’ tour to a packed house.

Tickets are selling fast so get yours now at www.alley-theatre.com or call 028 71 384444. Tickets are £20.

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI USA: VIDEO: Hickenlooper Chairs Senate Hearing on Training Workers on AI

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Colorado John Hickenlooper
Hickenlooper: “Now is the time to make sure every worker has access to the professional development training that they need to succeed”
WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator John Hickenlooper chaired a hearing of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pension Committee’s Subcommittee on Employment and Workplace Safety on how artificial intelligence (AI) skills training can prepare workers to compete in the modern job market and leverage AI tools in the workplace.
“AI-literacy training is going to help empower employers to choose the safest applications for their workforce, and make sure workers can give well-informed feedback about their experiences with AI,” said Hickenlooper in the hearing. “We know that having a well-trained and informed workforce is key, is really essential, to making sure that AI is used responsibly and that both workers and businesses can reap the full benefits of the tools.”

Hickenlooper was joined by Ranking Member Mike Braun; Dr. Karin Kimbrough, Chief Economist at LinkedIn; Alex Kotran, Chief Executive Officer of aiEDU; Ken Meyer, Senior Director of Human Resources of Ryan Health; and Denzel Wilson, Grassroots Program Manager at Seed AI.

During the hearing, Hickenlooper and the other senators asked witnesses about how businesses of all sizes were implementing AI in their operations and what AI trainings and skills American workers would benefit from.
“As AI technologies and training programs change over time, we’ll need everyone – our union partners, employers, nonprofits, everyone – to make sure we get this right and we set ourselves up for success,” said Hickenlooper in the hearing.
Last year, Hickenlooper chaired a Subcommittee on Employment and Workplace Safety hearing to explore how to best ensure workers are trained and empowered for the widespread integration of AI in the workplace and to discuss helpful ways for companies and workers to prepare to leverage AI in their workflows. Hickenlooper also chaired a Senate hearing on how to increase transparency in AI technologies for consumers, identify uses of AI that are beneficial or “high risk,” and evaluate the potential impact of policies designed to increase trustworthiness in the transformational technology.
For a full video of Hickenlooper’s opening remarks, click HERE.
Full text of Hickenlooper’s opening remarks below:
“Last year, this subcommittee heard from witnesses on the potential benefits of AI to our economy, but concluded that those benefits will only become a reality if we have a well-trained workforce.
“Since then, AI has only continued to explode with innovation, and has remained at the forefront of conversations for both employers and workers as new applications of AI continue to transform the workplace.
“Unlike most previous technologies, like all previous technologies, previous technologies like personal computers or cell phones, they initially had substantial barriers that limited consumer access. AI has already achieved wide access.
“AI-powered applications are being used by students and workers and business owners all across the country.
“By some estimates, more than 60% of companies are exploring how to integrate some form of generative AI technology even as we speak.
“Additionally, some workers already have their own subscriptions to AI applications and are using them to enhance their work, to accelerate their projects.
“Bottom line: AI clearly does have the potential to change how we all work.
“While some tasks may become more automated, the majority of jobs will use processes that employ, in some form, a collaboration between AI and human-run systems.
“Despite the clear interest in AI technologies from employers and workers alike, we have more work to do to create widely available AI literacy training opportunities to put everyone on an even playing field.
“The rapidly-changing landscape in AI technologies is making some employees and even some industries hesitant to invest in comprehensive training opportunities. They’re not sure if what they’re training will be useful and remain relevant in a relatively short period of time.
“But we know that having a well-trained and informed workforce is key, is really essential, to making sure that AI is used responsibly and that both workers and businesses can reap the full benefits of the tools.
“For example, human talent is needed to evaluate outputs generated by AI for accuracy, or to tailor AI-generated concepts into customized solutions that support their customers.
“AI literacy should also include an emphasis on methods to help workers identify AI-generated content versus human-generated content.
“AI-literacy training is going to help empower employers to choose the safest applications for their workforce, and make sure workers can give well-informed feedback about their experiences with AI.
“I think we’ve read the room. Now is the time to make sure every worker has access to the professional development training that they need to succeed.
“That’s why earlier this year I introduced the Lifelong Learning Act with Senators Budd and Peters to make sure we can appropriately invest in training opportunities for current and future workers.
“Senator Braun and I have also been working together to make sure the Department of Labor, as well as other agencies, understand the urgent need for these programs and need to address the safety factors connected to that urgent need.
“During today’s hearing, we’ll hear from panelists from various sectors and communities, who are providing or benefiting AI-literacy training opportunities.
“As AI technologies and training programs change over time, we’ll need everyone – our union partners, employers, nonprofits, everyone – to make sure we get this right and we set ourselves up for success.”

MIL OSI USA News –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI USA: Blaine’s Bulletin – Harvesting Missouri’s Best

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Blaine Luetkemeyer (MO-03)

Fall is a time of tradition, and like many of you, I look forward to the season—cooler weather, cheering on the Chiefs, and enjoying fall festivities with the grandkids. Our beautiful state is home to a wide array of thriving industries including aerospace, agriculture, transportation equipment, food processing, printing and publishing, financial services, and of course, beer. While these high-earning industries drive a portion of our state’s economy, I want to take a moment to highlight small businesses that not only fund the bank accounts of many Missourians but truly bring life and character to our communities.

Whether it’s grabbing a coffee, picking up flowers for a loved one, or finding a unique gift, nothing beats the charm and personal touch of shopping at a locally owned business. In Jefferson City, you can stop by Carrie’s Hallmark Shop for the perfect gift, or enjoy a meal at Sweet Smoke BBQ, Over in Hermann, stop by Adam Puchta Winery or visit Hermann Wurst Haus for local delicacies. These businesses, along with countless others across the district and beyond, are the soul of the Third. They bring personality and life to our streets, offer gathering places for residents, and attract visitors who get to experience the best of Mid-Missouri.

From bustling farmers markets to corner ice cream shops, these local entrepreneurs each bring something to the table that the Missouri’s Third District is. Small businesses are the backbone of Missouri’s economy, employing 1.2 million people—46.2% of our entire workforce. In fact, 530,380 small businesses make up 99.4% of all businesses in the state, showcasing their crucial role in sustaining the economic vitality of our local towns and cities. Whether it’s the farmer at your weekend market or the corner ice cream shop offering your new favorite flavor, these businesses contribute to our daily lives and community celebrations. They embody the spirit of entrepreneurship, creating spaces where we can dream, connect, and plan for the future.

For those looking to support small businesses over chains, it’s as simple as checking out local farmers markets, downtown shops, or even looking up your favorite local artisans online. Many businesses have expanded to offer convenient services like curbside pick-up or local delivery, making it easier than ever to shop small and keep our money in our community. Despite the challenges they face in today’s economic environment, small businesses continue to thrive because of the support they receive from folks like you. So, as we head into fall, let’s remember to support our local entrepreneurs—the people who make Mid-Missouri a great place to live, work, and play.

CONTACT US: I encourage you to visit my official website or call my offices in Jefferson City (573-635-7232) or Cottleville (636-327-7055) with your questions and concerns. If you want even greater access to what I am working on, please visit my YouTube site, Facebook page, and keep up-to-date with Twitter and Instagram.

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MIL OSI USA News –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI USA: Scalise Sends Letter to Colleagues Touting Republican Wins in 118th Congress

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Steve Scalise (1st District of Louisiana)

WASHINGTON, D.C.— Today, House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-La.) sent the following letter to his colleagues as we head into the October district work period:

Dear Colleagues,

It’s hard to believe, but only two years ago the Democrats were signing their deceptively named “Inflation Reduction Act” into law. That capped four years of unified Democrat control of Washington, where they jammed their radical agenda through Congress, spending $10 trillion and causing runaway inflation the American people still struggle with today.

Thankfully, in November 2022, the American people had enough of the destruction caused by the Democrats’ radical agenda and voted us into a narrow House majority. House Republicans were a small beacon of hope in an otherwise desolate Washington landscape controlled by the Democrat Party, their army of bureaucrats, and a media propaganda machine.

It’s been a David versus Goliath fight over the last 21 months of our House majority, and I’m so proud to fight alongside all of you. As we head into the final stretch before this pivotal election, we have a lot to be proud of and important accomplishments we can talk about at home.

While we do not control the Senate or White House, we should be encouraged by the fact that we, as House Republicans, unified around an ambitious agenda that addressed the real concerns American families face every day. From inflation and energy costs to historic illegal immigration and crime to national security and holding those in power accountable, we put on full display the contrast of our vision for the country versus the vision of chaos and economic distress of radical Democrats. Here are some of the highlights:

H.R. 1, the Lower Energy Costs Act:
Our conference fought back against the Biden-Harris Administration’s war on American energy by passing the Lower Energy Costs Act to cut burdensome red tape and boost energy production here at home, instead of relying on hostile foreign dictators that put our energy security at risk. In addition to making America energy independent again, H.R. 1 lowers costs for families who are struggling every day thanks to skyrocketing prices at the gas pump, in the grocery store, and elsewhere.

H.R. 2, the Secure the Border Act:
It’s no secret that, even in larger Republican majorities, we have historically struggled to unify around one comprehensive border bill. It was an uphill battle that required painstaking deliberations with all members of our diverse conference. The result was the most comprehensive border security bill in history, H.R. 2, the Secure the Border Act, to address the worst border crisis in history. Over 8.2 million illegal immigrants have entered the U.S. and more than 2 million gotaways under President Biden and “Border Czar” V.P. Harris’ open border policies, which cost American lives every day, like Laken Riley, Jocelyn Nungaray, and Rachel Morin. H.R. 2 increases the number of border patrol agents, resumes construction of the border wall, ends catch-and-release, reinstates ‘Remain in Mexico’, cracks down on the flow of fentanyl, and keeps our communities safe.

H.R. 5, the Parents Bill of Rights:
When the Administration and school boards tried to silence parents and remove them from their child’s education while using taxpayer dollars to promote woke agendas in classrooms, House Republicans stood up for parents’ right to be involved in their child’s education by passing H.R. 5, the Parents Bill of Rights Act. Parents have the right to transparency when it comes to their child’s education, to know how their taxpayer dollars are being used by schools, and to express their concerns to school boards without being silenced by the federal government.

H.R. 7521, the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act:
TikTok, which is controlled by ByteDance and tied to the Chinese Communist Party, poses a significant national security threat to the United States by allowing the CCP to spy on Americans and dictate what we see. House Republicans passed H.R. 7521, the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act, and placed the choice in TikTok’s hands: either they can sever their ties with the CCP or no longer be available in the United States. The Senate and President Biden followed our lead, signing our TikTok bill into law.

Standing with Our Ally Israel:
After the horrific attack of October 7th, House Republicans stood by our commitment to provide Israel with the tools it needs to defend itself and defeat terror. We passed H.R. 6126, the Israel Security Supplemental Appropriations Act, to quickly provide additional military equipment for our ally Israel, and in the face of Biden-Harris Administration efforts to pressure Israel by withholding critical weapons, we passed H.R. 8369, the Israel Security Assistance Support Act, to force the delivery of congressionally approved military aid. We have also taken on Iran and its terrorist proxies like Hezbollah, Hamas, and the Houthis through legislation like H.R. 5961, the No Funds for Iranian Terrorism Act, to freeze the Biden-Harris Administration’s $6 billion payday for Iran, H.R. 6046, the Standing Against Houthi Aggression Act, and H.R. 340, the Hamas International Financing Prevention Act.

Taking on the Chinese Communist Party:
The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) poses a generational threat to America, and dealing with it requires working across committee jurisdictions to develop a comprehensive approach. Since beginning this Congress with the establishment of the China Select Committee, that is exactly what we have done, culminating in this month’s China Week. We passed H.R. 9456, the Protecting American Agriculture from Foreign Adversaries Act, to prevent foreign adversaries from gaining control of our American farmland, H.R. 1398, the Protect America’s Innovation and Economic Security from CCP Act, to defend American research and intellectual property, and H.R. 8333, the BIOSECURE Act, to kick the CCP out of our biotechnology supply chains, among many other strong bills.

H.R. 277, the REINS Act of 2023:
Under the Biden-Harris Administration, federal agencies continue to expand their authority by assuming the powers of the legislative and judicial branches, allowing unelected and unaccountable bureaucrats to make laws behind closed doors that will have serious impacts on the American way-of-life. House Republicans stepped up to rein in executive overreach by passing H.R. 277, the REINS Act of 2023, which requires congressional approval before major rules can take effect.

Ending the COVID National and Public Health Emergencies:
Long after schools reopened and the majority of workers returned to the office, President Biden delayed terminating the COVID-19 national and public health emergencies because he didn’t want to give up the powers it gave his Administration. The National Emergencies Act was never intended to give the president unlimited authority over the American people’s lives – we passed H.J. Res. 7 and H.R. 382, the Pandemic is Over Act, to end the COVID national and public health emergencies and get America back to normal.

H.R. 8281, the SAVE Act:
With the over 8.2 million illegal immigrants that have come across our southern border thanks to President Biden and Vice President Harris’ open border policies, it is vital we shore up our election security and ensure that only American citizens are voting in American elections. House Republicans came together in strong support of H.R. 8281, the SAVE Act
, which would require individuals to provide proof of citizenship when registering to vote in federal elections.

H.J. Res 26:
Last year, Washington, D.C. tried to implement Democrats’ soft-on-crime policies, including weakening criminal penalties for violent offenses, such as carjacking, robberies, and burglary. To keep our nation’s capital safe, House Republicans passed H.J. Res. 29 to reverse the D.C. Council’s misguided crime bill, which all present Republicans voted for and more than 170 Democrats voted against. Thanks to our work in forcing this issue, President Biden eventually caved, and the measure passed the Senate and was signed into law.

H.R. 7024, the Tax Relief for American Families and Workers Act of 2024:
In 2017, under President Trump’s leadership, Republicans passed the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, a pro-family, pro-worker, and pro-growth tax reform package. Because of constraints associated with reconciliation, some temporary provisions of TCJA have begun to expire, and substantially more will expire at the end of 2025. House Republicans are working to support American families and the economy by extending expiring provisions of TCJA. This Congress, we passed H.R. 7024, the Tax Relief for American Families and Workers Act of 2024, which allows working families to keep more of their paycheck and also restores important tax incentivizes that drive investment in the American economy.

Digital Assets:
Despite hostility from the Biden-Harris Administration, the digital asset ecosystem continues to grow. To foster continued growth by providing regulatory certainty and appropriate consumer protections, House Republicans passed three trailblazing bills in the digital asset space: H.J. Res. 109, a congressional resolution of disapproval against the SEC’s misguided “Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 121”; H.R. 4763, the Financial Innovation and Technology for the 21st Century Act; and, H.R. 5403, the CBDC Anti-Surveillance State Act. Taken together, these bills set a clear path for the future of digital assets and their regulation.

H.R. 26, the Born-Alive Abortion Survivors Protection Act:
To protect the sanctity of life, House Republicans passed H.R. 26, the Born-Alive Abortion Survivors Protection Act, which secures medical protections for babies that survive an attempted abortion. This comes after four years of Democrats refusing to hold a vote on the life-saving legislation. Newborn babies deserve protection and care regardless of the circumstances under which they are born – this should not be a partisan issue, but common sense and basic morality.

Attempted Assassinations of President Trump:
The House quickly acted after the attempted assassination of President Donald Trump on July 13th in Butler, Pennsylvania, and formed a task force to investigate the series of failures by the U.S. Secret Service that day. The Task Force is also investigating the subsequent assassination attempt that occurred on September 15th in Florida, as it works to deliver answers to the American people and ensure their choice of president is never again threatened by a deranged, radical individual.

Antisemitism on Campuses:
After Hamas’ horrific October 7th attacks on Israel, and the subsequent military actions taken by Israel to defend itself, the U.S. has seen a disturbing uptick in antisemitism on college campuses. Led by the Committee on Education and the Workforce, House Republicans discovered a troubling culture on campuses, where administrators fail to implement protections for Jewish students and even mock Jewish students, and has demanded answers from these universities about student safety and funding of pro-Hamas groups and propaganda. As a result, the presidents of Harvard, the University of Pennsylvania, and Columbia resigned in disgrace.

The Biden-Harris Border Crisis Report:
The Committee on Homeland Security released a report exposing the many ways the Biden-Harris Administration knowingly and intentionally undermined U.S. border security to create the crisis we currently see at the border. The report revealed that even before taking office, the Administration was warned by experienced border security professionals about the dangers of their plan to open our borders and dismantle our border security. The Biden-Harris border crisis was not some inevitable phenomenon – it was directly caused by the actions taken by President Biden, Vice President Harris, and Homeland Security Secretary Mayorkas. Earlier this year, House Republicans impeached Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas for violating border security laws enacted by Congress and threatening the safety of the American people – unfortunately, Senate Democrats refuse to hold him accountable for his failures.

The Biden-Harris Failed Afghanistan Withdrawal Report:
The Foreign Affairs Committee’s investigation into the Biden-Harris Administration’s catastrophic withdrawal from Afghanistan revealed that the Administration disregarded the advice of military and security professionals, ignored the facts on the ground, and indulged in wishful thinking and endless deliberation that left American troops and diplomats in-country dangerously exposed – ultimately resulting in the tragic and unnecessary deaths of 13 U.S. servicemembers. This week, House Republicans passed legislation to condemn key figures and officials in the Administration, including President Biden, Vice President Harris, National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan, National Security Communications Advisor John Kirby, State Department Secretary Antony Blinken, and others, for their part in this historic disaster.

President Biden’s Influence Peddling and Classified Documents:
On December 13, 2023, the House voted to formalize the impeachment inquiry into President Biden allowing the Oversight, Judiciary, and Ways and Means Committees to continue developing compelling evidence revealing how President Biden knew, was involved, and benefited directly from his family’s influence peddling schemes. The committees took key actions to bring in significant witnesses, including Hunter Biden and James Biden, both of whom had lied during their appearances, and the committees sent criminal referrals to the Department of Justice recommending they be charged with making false statements.

In February, the House Oversight and Judiciary Committees subpoenaed Attorney General Merrick Garland for records, including transcripts, notes, video, and audio files, related to Special Counsel Robert Hur’s investigation of President Biden’s willful mishandling of classified information, after Hur declined to recommend charges against Biden citing his memory problems. A.G. Garland refused to produce the audio recordings of Special Counsel Hur’s interviews with President Biden and his ghostwriter, and on June 12, 2024, House Republicans voted to hold A.G. Garland in contempt for failing to comply with the subpoena. On July 2, 2024, the House Judiciary Committee filed a lawsuit in D.C. federal court to obtain these recordings. We remain committed to obtaining this critically important evidence in our investigation into Biden’s mishandling of classified documents.

Regulatory Burdens:
In the wake of the Supreme Court overruling Chevron, to assure the Biden-Harris Administration respects the limits placed on its authority, our House committees sent oversight letters to nearly every agency in the Executive branch requesting information on legislative rules, agency adjudications, enforcement actions, and agency guidance documents. Additionally, the House Oversight Committee issued a thorough report on the Biden-Harris Administration’s regulatory overreach
, concluding that it has imposed an estimated $1.7 trillion in regulatory costs, with EPA counting for $1.3 trillion.

This Congress hasn’t been easy, but nothing worth fighting for is. The future of our country is at stake, and it is critical that we make our case across the country of what we’ve accomplished so far and how much more we have left to do to save our country from the chaos and destruction that we have seen under the Biden-Harris Administration and their far-left partners in Congress. We are a team, and I am proud of all of you for the work you have done to help us keep our promises and unite to fulfill the agenda we set out to achieve on behalf of the American people. It’s an honor to serve as your Majority Leader.

-Steve

MIL OSI USA News –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI Canada: Saskatchewan Delays Adoption of Tier 3 Energy Efficiency Standards to January 2026

Source: Government of Canada regional news

Released on September 27, 2024

Ensuring a better quality of life for Saskatchewan people is a team effort which includes our residents, communities, businesses and building industries. The Government of Saskatchewan values input from stakeholders when planning for growth, including an effective regulatory structure and safe, healthy, habitable and energy efficient buildings.

As a result, the Ministry of Government Relations is delaying the implementation of Tier 3 energy efficiency in buildings across Saskatchewan by one year, to January 2026.

“An additional year to implement the next tier in energy efficiency allows our industry partners to have the time and tools needed to ensure the best possible builds,” Government Relations Minister Don McMorris said. “This will maintain Saskatchewan’s competitiveness with other provinces while maintaining affordability for residents.”

In January 2024, Saskatchewan adopted the 2020 edition of the National Building Code (NBC) by regulation under The Construction Codes Act. These regulations involved the implementation of Tier 2 and Tier 3 energy-efficiency requirements on January 1, 2024, and January 1, 2025, respectively in new-build construction across Saskatchewan. The energy efficiency tiers of the NBC only apply to residential buildings of three storeys or less in building height, having a building area not exceeding 600 metres squared.

To learn more about Saskatchewan’s building code regulations, visit: saskatchewan.ca.

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MIL OSI Canada News –

September 29, 2024

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$349 million federal investment delivering 340 all-electric buses for the TTC

Piano man comic David O’Doherty to make welcome return to The Alley