NewzIntel.com

Category: Politics

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

    US Senate News:

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

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

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Robert Tinline has been appointed British High Commissioner to Canada.

    Robert Tinline

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

    Mr Tinline will take up his appointment during February 2025.

    Curriculum vitae         

    Full name: Robert Tinline

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

    Media enquiries

    Email newsdesk@fcdo.gov.uk

    Telephone 020 7008 3100

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

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 September 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Lebanon: grave concern of explosions & Palestine/Israel: Displaced people- Security Council Briefing

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Briefing UN Security Council members today (19 Sep) on the situation in the Middle East, Tor Wennesland, UN Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process expressed his “grave concern” on the “the series of explosions across Lebanon and rockets fired toward Israel in recent days,” warning that these incidents add to the overall volatility. Wennesland urged all parties to “refrain from steps that will further exacerbate the situation and take immediate steps to deescalate.”

    In his briefing, Wennesland also highlighted the ongoing demolitions and seizures of Palestinian-owned structures in the occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem. He noted that over 550 people, including 250 children, had been displaced. He said, “demolitions and seizures of Palestinian-owned structures continued… citing the lack of Israeli-issued building permits, which are almost impossible for Palestinians to obtain.”

    The Special Coordinator also expressed alarm over provocative actions and rhetoric on both sides. Urging all parties to reject such dangerous incitements, he said, “a joint statement from Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad threatened a return to the use of suicide bombings… while an Israeli minister said, ‘Palestinian prisoners must be killed. Shot in the head.’”

    Helen Clark, a member of The Elders and former Prime Minister of New Zealand, told the Security Council that the current approach to managing the Israeli-Palestinian conflict has failed. She criticized member states that use their veto power to “protect allies” or “obstruct geopolitical rivals,” warning that this undermines the authority of the Council.

    Riyad H. Mansour, Permanent Observer of Palestine to the UN, referred to a recent advisory opinion from the International Court of Justice, declaring Israel’s presence in the Occupied Palestinian Territory as unlawful. “The Court reaffirmed the illegality of Israel’s settlements… stressing the obligations of the occupying Power to cease immediately all settlement activities,” Mansour said.

    Israeli Ambassador Danny Danon said, “this Council and the world must wake up to the reality of the threat Iran poses. The dark force driving the violence we see today is not a collection of independent groups; it is Iran pulling the strings,” He said, “the Iranian proxies, Hezbollah in the North, Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad in Gaza, the Houthis in Yemen, Shiite militias in Iraq and Syria and terrorist cells in Judea and Samaria, are all Iran’s attack dogs unleashed to spread death and destruction across the region.” Danon further said that Iran is not only targeting Israel but is seeking domination of the entire Middle East, while the Palestinian Authority is being “utterly weak and impotent.”

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ONnkcIa8MYE

    MIL OSI Video –

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

    Source: South Africa News Agency

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Roads reopened

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

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

    The R34 Newcastle to Memel is closed.

    Motorists have been requested to cancel any unnecessary travel.

    READ | Tips for safer driving on icy roads

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

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

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

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Graves Works to Protect Missouri Farmers from Federal Land Grabs

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Sam Graves (6th District of Missouri)

    WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Sam Graves (MO-06) introduced the Rails to Trails Landowner Rights Act and the Protecting Our Farmers from the Green New Deal Act today. Both bills strengthen landowner rights to stop federal land seizures.

    “There are few things more sacred than our right to own property, to farm, and to provide for our families,” said Graves. “That’s why our Founding Fathers sought to protect landowners from government land grabs with the Fifth Amendment. Sadly, too many Washington bureaucrats these days just don’t get it—and that’s exactly why we need stronger laws to keep these unaccountable bureaucrats in line, protect landowner rights, and stop unjust federal land grabs.”

    H.R. 9604, the Rails to Trails Landowner Rights Act, reigns in the Surface Transportation Board’s Rails to Trails program, which allows the federal government to take former railroad corridors and give those corridors to third parties for use as recreational trails. This broken process violates the constitutional rights of landowners and unfairly cuts them out of the process. Graves’ legislation would require trail sponsors to get sign off from all impacted landowners and fully compensate landowners when a project moves forward.

    You can read the Rails to Trails Landowner Rights Act here.

    H.R. 9603, the Protecting Our Farmers from the Green New Deal Act repeals provisions from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act(IIJA) signed into law by President Biden that allow the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to override state permitting decisions and approve eminent domain for electric transmission lines.

    You can read the Protecting Our Farmers from the Green New Deal Acthere.

    As Chairman of the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, Congressman Graves also included language in the Water Resources Development Act of 2024 that prohibits the United States Army Corps of Engineers from acquiring any lands or interest in lands using eminent domain under the Missouri River BSNP Fish and Wildlife Mitigation Project.

    You can read the Section 331(a)(3) on pg. 269 of the Water Resources Development Act of 2024 here.

    What They Are Saying:

    Missouri Farm Bureau President Garrett Hawkins:

    “For too long, property owners have been run over by provisions of the federal Rails to Trails program, which allows the conversion of abandoned rail lines to public trails without their consent. Protecting private property rights is a priority for Missouri Farm Bureau. We are grateful to Chairman Graves for leading the charge to ensure landowners rights are protected when new trails are proposed. We look forward to working with Chairman Graves and his colleagues in Congress to move this priority initiative across the finish line.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

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

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

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

    Lucy Jarvis, Sellafield Ltd

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

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

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

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

    She said:

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

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

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

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

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

    She said:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Further reading

    Hundreds of new starters begin their careers at Sellafield

    Sellafield Ltd careers – graduates, placements and apprenticeships

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

    How to join our talent community

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 September 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: At United Nations General Assembly (UNGA 79), African Development Bank affirms standing as champion of Africa’s prosperity

    Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

    NEW YORK, United States of America, September 23, 2024/APO Group/ —

    As the world convenes in New York this week for the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA 79), Africa’s 1.2 billion people will be counting on their participating leaders and pan-African institutions like the African Development Bank Group (www.AfDB.org) to lead the charge on matters critical to the continent’s sustainable development and prosperity.

    Issues of climate change, the reform of the global financial architecture, peace, food and health security, access to clean energy and connectivity, among others, are captured in the Bank’s High 5s (http://apo-opa.co/3BnAsrS), are advanced in the new Ten-Year Strategy (http://apo-opa.co/3ZG5u8q) and are aligned with the African Union’s Agenda 2063, ‘the Africa we want’.

    The High-Level Segment of the 79th Session of UNGA, bringing together member states, international organizations, intergovernmental bodies, and other key stakeholders, will be held from 22-30 September 2024 under the theme “Leaving no one behind: Acting together for the advancement of peace, sustainable development and human dignity for present and future generations.”

    The 2024 meetings take place against a backdrop of growing concern about the ability to meet critical targets outlined in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) agenda.

    The SDGS outline seventeen “goals” collectively described as “a shared blueprint for peace and prosperity for people and the planet, now and into the future” and with a deadline of 2030.  They were first unveiled at UNGA 70 in 2015 which saw Dr. Akinwunmi A. Adesina’s debut appearance as the African Development Bank Group President.

    Over the last decade, the African Development Bank has ramped up efforts and investments aimed to accelerate the attainment of the SDGs, in synergy with its own High-5s agenda of Light Up and Power Africa; Feed Africa, Industrialize Africa, Integrate Africa, and Improve the Quality of Life for the People of Africa. By focusing on these High 5s, the African Development Bank has said, Africa stands the chance of accomplishing 90 percent of its Sustainable Development Goals for Africa.

    Accompanied to New York by a high-level delegation of Bank Group executives, Adesina will helm a major push to strengthen partnerships and generate more support and commitment from key stakeholders for the continent’s development priorities.

    Adesina’s packed UNGA itinerary will kick off on Sunday, 22 September, at this year’s  ‘The Summit of the Future’ (http://apo-opa.co/3MTW2qA), scheduled for 22-23 September 2024. At the summit, Adesina will join world leaders to deliver a statement and adopt an action-oriented document to be known as “A Pact for the Future.”

    He will also take part in a closed-door meeting with UN Secretary General António Guterres to discuss the critical issues of mobilizing greater private sector participation in Africa’s development, and the reform of multilateral development banks (MDBs).

    Adesina will also speak at an event entitled “The World is at a Crossroads”, which will result in a new global blueprint designed to ensure humankind embraces rapid advances in technology and science to deliver on the promise of a better, more peaceful and prosperous future for people and the planet.

    A major issue for the Bank is presenting the case for additional funds for the African Development Fund (ADF) , the Bank’s concessional lending arm, which since 2001 has been at the forefront of the Bank’s drive to advance the fragility agenda in Africa. The Bank, one of the first multilateral institutions to embed the concept of fragility and resilience into all its operations, is seeking to secure an ambitious replenishment of $25 billion for the ADF.

    A fireside chat, hosted by the broadcaster CNN, will present a platform for Adesina to highlight the Bank’s ground-breaking Desert to Power programme across the continent’s Sahel region, which aims to create the largest solar energy zone in the world and connect 250 million people to electricity by 2030.

    The bank president will also address a steering committee meeting of the Access to the Digital Economy (MADE Alliance-Africa) (http://apo-opa.co/4dibTdt) – an organization of which he is a co-chair which aims to provide digital access to 100 million people in Africa. Dr Adesina will stress how he believes the work of MADE is critical to address the ambitious and promising goal of reaching 100 million African farmers in 10 years.

    He will be joined by the Bank’s vice-presidents for Regional Development, Integration, and Business Delivery, Finance, Agriculture, Human, and Social Development, Private Sector, Infrastructure & Industrialization and Power, Energy, Climate and Green Growth and the Chief Economist.

    MIL OSI Africa –

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

    Source: US State of California 2

    Sep 22, 2024

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

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

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

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

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

    Recent news

    Sep 21, 2024

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

    Sep 20, 2024

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

    Sep 20, 2024

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: USAID Announces New Partners to the Women in the Digital Economy Fund Ahead of New Funding Rounds

    Source: USAID

    Today, USAID is announcing two new partners, Reliance Foundation and The UPS Foundation, to the Women in the Digital Economy Fund (WiDEF), which works to close the gender digital divide, improving women’s livelihoods, economic security, and resilience. WiDEF was launched by Vice President Kamala Harris in March 2023.

    Reliance Foundation will provide up to $10 million through three funding rounds for innovative initiatives to bridge the gender digital divide in India, doubling the available WiDEF funding in the country and supporting the 2023 G20 Leaders commitment to halve the digital gender gap by 2030. Additionally, Reliance Foundation will support learning through development of knowledge products, dissemination of promising practices and other tools, and bolster measurement and learning for all India grantees. The UPS Foundation provided $1 million to WiDEF to identify, directly fund, and accelerate evidence-based, proven solutions to close the gender digital divide.

    WiDEF is a joint effort between USAID and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation managed by the GSMA Foundation, CARE, and the Global Digital Inclusion Partnership. Since the official launch of WiDEF in March 2024, the Fund has identified promising and effective approaches to closing the gender digital divide, and recently announced the list of semifinalists for the first round of funding. In addition to the $50.5 million previously announced by USAID, WiDEF partners Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Government of the Republic of Korea, Microsoft, Reliance Foundation, and the UPS Foundation committed $32.6 million in funding. 

    Building on the success of the Fund, Women in the Digital Economy Initiative partners from governments, private sector companies, foundations, civil society, and multilateral organizations have pledged more than $1.01 billion to accelerate gender digital equality.

    MIL OSI USA News –

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

    Source: US State of California 2

    Sep 20, 2024

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

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

    Governor Gavin Newsom

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

    First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom 

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Recent news

    Sep 20, 2024

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

    Sep 20, 2024

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

    Sep 20, 2024

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: On World Alzheimer’s Day, Governor Newsom signs legislation to take on dementia and help Californians thrive as they age

    Source: US State of California 2

    Sep 21, 2024

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

    Sacramento, California – On World Alzheimer’s Day, Governor Gavin Newsom signed a package of twelve bills to help California’s law enforcement, doctors and health care providers, and local aging services better serve the growing number of California adults over 60 and their families. These policies will help reform the state’s aging services ahead of 2030, when one in four Californians will be aged 60 or over.  

    • AB 2541 by Assemblymember Jasmeet Bains (D-Delano) — Requires law enforcement to have training on preventing and responding to wandering by people with Alzheimer’s, autism, and dementia.
    • SB 639 by Senator Monique Limón (D-Santa Barbara) — Requires doctors, nurses, and other health care professionals who provide care for people 65 and older as at least 25% of their practice to take continuing education in geriatrics and dementia care.
    • SB 1249 by Senator Richard Roth (D-Riverside) — Modernizes the Mello-Granlund Older Californians Act of 1996 by increasing local control and establishing new core programs and performance measures for accountability in the delivery of local aging services. 

    “People over 60 are California’s fastest growing population – in fact, our residents live among the longest lives in America. That’s why it’s so important that we work to advance healthy, safe, and supported aging in the Golden State. I’m proud that we continue to boldly tackle perhaps the greatest challenge of aging – dementia – to ensure that every person can age with dignity and care.” 

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    Combatting dementia and supporting families

    Dr. Jasmeet Bains, Assemblymember, Chair of the Assembly Aging and Long-Term Care Committee: “As the nation’s population continues to age, the incidence of Alzheimer’s and other dementia related disorders have increased as well. I have seen this first hand as a practicing physician both in my district and in my deployments in serving those impacted by wildfires throughout the state. Given that over 60% of those living with Alzheimer’s disease will wander at some point and an estimated 49% of children with autism will engage in wandering behavior there will be more and more opportunities for these individuals to wander from home and come into contact with local law enforcement and public safety officials. Finding people quickly is key because we know the survival rate drops dramatically the longer it takes to find the missing person.”

    State Senator Monique Limón: “On World Alzheimer’s Day I am honored that Governor Newsom has signed SB 639, ensuring our healthcare workforce is equipped to provide dementia care to our most vulnerable populations. The fight to end Alzheimer’s for me is incredibly personal. I witnessed my own grandmother grapple with the disease for years and experienced first-hand the toll it took on our family and loved ones. That is why I believe firmly that with more support, education, and coordinated efforts in the health care space we can provide comprehensive care to Californians impacted by Alzheimer’s and Dementia.”

    State Senator Richard D. Roth: “With the advancement of technology, medicine, and healthy lifestyles, in the year 2030, one in four Californians will be 60 years of age or older. We must ensure that we continue to address the diverse needs of a rapidly aging population. To do so we need to be vigilant in the oversight of the government programs that help assist older Californians. Governor Newsom’s signing of SB 1249 ensures the Older Californians Act is modernized by developing performance metrics, and a process to make sure the services provided for aging residents are integrated with our other social service programs.”

    Susan DeMarois, Director of the California Department of Aging: “The reimagining of California’s aging services network has been underway as we build on five decades of experience to evolve service development and delivery for a population that has significantly grown and changed. Older adults make up a greater segment of our population and are likely to live longer, healthier lives, requiring different services and supports than previous generations. Senator Roth’s bill helps achieve the vision of ensuring all older adults and their families can access consistent, high-quality services, no matter where they live in California.” 

    Bigger picture

    Recognizing that California’s over-65 population is projected to exceed the under-18 population by 2030, and the changes underway for families, communities, and the economy, Governor Gavin Newsom issued an executive order in 2019 calling for the creation of a Master Plan for Aging (MPA). The Master Plan, which was released in January 2021, serves as a blueprint that is being used by state government, local communities, private organizations and philanthropy to build environments that promote an age-friendly California.   Powered by the MPA, California has since expanded health care coverage, home care and day center services, family leave, housing choices ranging from ADUs to assisted living, adult protective services, volunteer opportunities, and more. Take On Alzheimer’s is California’s new public education and awareness campaign supporting prevention, diagnosis, and care

    Other aging-related legislation signed today

    AB 1902 by Assemblymember Juan Alanis (R-Merced) — Prescription drug labels: accessibility.

    AB 2016 by Assemblymember Brian Maienschein (D-San Diego) — Decedents’ estates.

    AB 2207 by Assemblymember Eloise Gómez Reyes (D-San Bernardino) — State boards and commissions: representatives of older adults.

    AB 2620 by Assemblymember Jasmeet Bains (D-Delano) — California Commission on Aging.

    AB 2680 by Assemblymember Cecilia Aguiar-Curry (D-Winters) — Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Conditions Advisory Committee.

    AB 2689 by Assemblymember Jasmeet Bains (D-Delano) — Personal income taxes: California Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementia Research Voluntary Tax Contribution Fund (signed earlier this year).

    SB 1352 by Senator Aisha Wahab (D-Fremont) — Continuing care retirement communities.

    SB 1354 by Senator Aisha Wahab (D-Fremont) — Long-term health care facilities: payment source and resident census.

    SB 1406 by Senator Ben Allen (D-El Segundo) — Residential care facilities for the elderly: resident services.

    Recent news

    Sep 20, 2024

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

    Sep 20, 2024

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

    Sep 20, 2024

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

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

    MIL OSI Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

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

    Van Minh Thiau, Nikita Anisimov

    © Higher School of Economics

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

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

    Source: US State of Hawaii

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

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

    DEPARTMENT OF LAND AND NATURAL RESOURCES

    JOSH GREEN, M.D.
    GOVERNOR

    DAWN CHANG
    CHAIRPERSON

    NEWS RELEASE

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    Sept. 20, 2024

    ARCHITECTURE BRANCH MANAGER SELECTED AS NEW STATE HISTORIC PRESERVATION ADMINISTRATOR

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

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

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

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

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

    Puff begins her new role Monday, Sept. 23.

    # # #

    RESOURCES

    (All images/video courtesy: DLNR)

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

    https://vimeo.com/1008964912

    Photograph – Jessica Puff

    Photograph – Puff in Lahaina

    Media Contact:

    Dan Dennison

    Communications Director

    808-587-0396

    [email protected]

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Translation: 20.09.2024 Breslavia Work on ensuring safety continues

    MIL ASI Translation. Region: Polish/Europe –

    Fuente: Gobierno de Polonia en poleco.

    During the afternoon meeting of the crisis staff in Wrocław, Prime Minister Donald Tusk presented conclusions from his visits to the Lubusz and West Pomeranian Voivodeships. The issue of controls on the border with Germany was also discussed, which, thanks to government intervention, should not be a problem in the event of a flood threat. It is accelerating the reconstruction program for areas affected by the flood. Lubuskie and West Pomeranian Voivodeships ready to fight the element. During the afternoon meeting of the crisis staff in Wrocław, Prime Minister Donald Tusk shared his conclusions from the visit to the Lubuskie and West Pomeranian Voivodeships. “From my tour today, it is quite clear that they are well prepared,” said the head of government. Services and residents of areas that are still waiting for the flood wave are constantly working on security measures. The Prime Minister was impressed by the commitment he could see, among others: in Nowa Sól. However, in the south of the country the situation is still difficult. The Prime Minister listened attentively to reports from representatives of services working in this area. Border controls will not be an inconvenience. The Ministry of Internal Affairs, in consultation with the German equivalent of the Ministry of Interior and Administration, has determined that the services of both countries will do everything to ensure that the border controls reintroduced by our neighbors do not cause congestion due to the flood risk. “We worked to ensure that at the moment of the peak wave there were no threats related to, for example, a traffic jam on the border bridge or border control,” said Tomasz Siemoniak. Donald Tusk thanked the Minister of Interior and Administration for efficient operation. “I asked the Minister for European Union Affairs and the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Administration to make the German side aware as quickly as possible that their decision on border control cannot interfere with our flood protection operations. I will want to know whether it has had an effect, whether the movement at the border is faster, so that we can intervene again, if necessary,” the head of government noted. The Prime Minister reminded that Poland is critical of Germany’s decision to restore control at the border. Preparations for major reconstruction In connection with the decision to appoint Marcin Kierwiński as the government plenipotentiary for the reconstruction of flood-affected areas, the Prime Minister announced accelerated actions. “Our ambition should be to turn this dramatic crisis into an opportunity; to make things better in these places than before the flood. Smarter, more modern. I believe we are able to ensure this,” declared the Prime Minister. The head of government announced that a preliminary assessment of actual damage and losses is needed. The moment the first large city – Opole – canceled the flood alarm, you can start thinking more boldly about your next steps. Funds for the reconstruction of destroyed towns come not only from the state budget and the European Union, but also – in a beautiful gesture of solidarity – from other voivodeships and cities. Appeal to local government officials and officials The challenge for local government officials is the constant need for better communication with the inhabitants of endangered areas. The Prime Minister gave the example of a resident of Opatowice, Wrocław, who wrote to him via social media, asking for information about a possible evacuation. “It’s good that I noticed it, reacted and managed to sort it out. But we must do everything to ensure that such an informal path is not necessary,” appealed Donald Tusk. The head of government emphasized how important it is to diagnose the weakest points in coordination and communication in order to improve activities.  Minister of Internal Affairs and Administration Tomasz Siemoniak said that PLN 100 million has already been transferred to the voivodeships’ accounts for the payment of benefits under emergency aid. However, sometimes the problem is that the procedure for granting them is too long. “I know it’s difficult, but you have to put so much pressure on the officials that they really put their heart into it. Because if people with a flooded apartment or house found time to come to the office, it means that they really need this money urgently,” the Prime Minister asked local government officials. Officials should keep bureaucracy and procedural requirements to a minimum. Quick action against criminals preying on human tragedies. The Chief Commander of the Police informed during the staff meeting that officers had organized mobile posts to be able to respond more effectively to the needs of citizens. “Thank you very much for this ambitious intention to create mobile police stations in places where necessary, i.e. police officers who are on site – in a car, but in direct and constant contact with residents when necessary” – The Prime Minister commented on this initiative. Information was also provided about quick police interventions against people who, taking advantage of a dramatic situation, commit crimes. “Thank you for the good cooperation of all law enforcement and justice agencies. There are very good signs from the couple that they are caught immediately and sentenced immediately. I hope that this will continue,” concluded the Prime Minister. Criminals try to take advantage of people’s kindness. There are more and more fake collections on the internet. The services also operate efficiently in this area. “We are engaging the command of the Cyberspace Defense Forces component in these activities. We ask everyone to pay attention to the collection to which they want to donate money,” appealed the Deputy Prime Minister of the Ministry of National Defense, Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz. We would like to remind you to verify collections for flood victims.  

    MILES AXIS

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

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI Translation: 21.09.2024 Evacuation, strengthening of embankments, cleaning of the area, construction of crossings, medical assistance are the main tasks of soldiers in flood areas

    MIL ASI Translation. Region: Polish/Europe –

    Fuente: Gobierno de Polonia en poleco.

    Evacuation, strengthening of embankments, cleaning of the area, construction of crossings, medical assistance are the main tasks of soldiers in flood areas 21.09.2024 We are also in towns that have already been affected by the effects of great water. Here in Szprotawa, water overflowed, and the effects affect about 60 residential buildings, including some companies. We are currently talking to the crisis management team about the actions that have been taken. I would like to thank everyone very much. Volunteer firefighters, firefighters from the State Fire Service, policemen, soldiers, residents are working. I would like to thank everyone very much for this good organization, for managing this flood action together with the local government, for protecting Szprotawa from greater effects than those we have today – said Deputy Prime Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz in Wrocław.

    On Saturday, the head of the Ministry of National Defense took part in the crisis headquarters in Wrocław, as well as in the headquarters operating in Wołów and Szprotawa. In the afternoon, the deputy prime minister took part in a briefing in Głogów. At the crisis headquarters, we talked to all the communes that are at risk and those that are expecting the wave to arrive. There is a huge commitment of residents, all uniformed services and there is cooperation. We thank you for this once again very much. More units have been activated, such as cadets from firefighting schools, who also joined the help in the Wołów district, to lay sandbags. Soldiers have been present from the very beginning, of course. They carried out the mission on the embankments until it was possible. Now, another line of the barrier against the water is being laid there – informed the deputy prime minister. As the head of the Ministry of National Defense pointed out, soldiers of the Polish Army are helping in many directions. Where the flood wave has passed, the areas need to be cleaned up. The areas approaching the flood wave must be monitored, and where necessary, the flood embankments must be reinforced. We have dispatched more dehumidifiers, which are needed in places affected by the flood. Providing the dehumidifiers is one of the main tasks. Pumps are still needed. Soldiers are directly involved in flood control operations today. Para bromear evacuation, protection of life and health, strengthening the embankments, tidying up the area, clearing communication routes. There is also great cooperation between the army and the Ministry of Infrastructure related to the construction and repair of road and rail connections. Reconstruction also means strengthening the embankments. For example, yesterday, the embankments were reinforced using Police helicopters in Lewin Brzeski – Deputy Prime Minister Kosiniak-Kamysz noted. The Minister of National Defense informed about attempts to extort money on the Internet. So far, over 80 false collections have been identified and blocked by the services appointed for this purpose. The fight against disinformation is also ongoing. There are many collections in cyberspace that are dishonest. We have also engaged in the fight against this those troops related to the protection of cyberspace. The component of the Cyberspace Protection Troops is involved in the process of fighting fraudsters on the Internet. We will fight this (…) we will actively counteract these attacks – said the head of the Ministry of National Defense.

    MILES AXIS

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

    MIL Translation OSI

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

    MIL ASI Translation. Region: Polish/Europe –

    Fuente: Gobierno de Polonia en poleco.

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

    MILES AXIS

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

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI Translation: 21.09.2024 We reach every place with help

    MIL ASI Translation. Region: Polish/Europe –

    Fuente: Gobierno de Polonia en poleco.

    We reach every place with help21.09.2024There are still places in Poland that are threatened by large waters. Services together with local government and residents are securing critical places. The embankments are reinforced with sandbags and constantly monitored. During the crisis headquarters in Głogów, the Prime Minister asked local government officials to report needs on an ongoing basis. He also announced the creation of a map of neglect that emerged in the face of the flood.

    The securing is still ongoing

    The Prime Minister appealed to local government officials to report their needs for specific equipment needed for flood protection – so that nothing is missing anywhere.

    You have to be everywhere, especially where the fight is going on. We are very keen to reach every place with the appropriate help, regardless of the scale of the phenomenon and the size of the town.

    – emphasized Donald Tusk. The head of government thanked for the organization, determination and dedication of all people involved in securing endangered areas and for helping flood victims.

    Even convicts from the local facility are also participating in saving the city. Everywhere I go I hear about the extraordinary commitment of people, services and local governments

    – said the Prime Minister. The Prime Minister reminded the services and local government to thoroughly verify whether information about the evacuation reached all residents. He assured that the police are constantly monitoring the areas from which residents evacuated.

    We are very effective in combating crimes directly or indirectly related to the flood situation. It is also important for people to know that if someone tries to raise a hand on your property, they will quickly pay a severe penalty for it

    – Donald Tusk reminded. Security in flood-affected areas is one of the key tasks of the state.

    Map of Neglect

    In the crisis situation, instances of neglect came to light, such as unmowed embankments or beaver burrows.

    We need to know what went wrong where, so that there are no more such incidents. If we are dealing with clear violations, there will be consequences

    – Prime Minister pointed out. The head of government announced the creation of a map of neglect in order to avoid similar situations in the future. He also announced readiness to introduce legal solutions that will allow for securing the embankments.

    Help organization

    People who are going to help in flooded areas are asked to listen to the services’ instructions.

    A huge request to listen to these tips on what to do and where, so that the road is not routed. There are very few of these access roads, so there must be even more subordination here

    – Deputy Prime Minister appealed, Minister of National Defense Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz. Tomasz Siemoniak, Minister of Internal Affairs and Administration, encouraged donors to visit the websites of provincial offices, where hubs are indicated, which operate around the clock and accept goods for flood victims. Thanks to them, aid is better organized and support reaches those most in need immediately.

    anchoo[container incrusted]

    MILES AXIS

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

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI Translation: 21.09.2024 Report from Saturday’s headquarters in Wrocław

    MIL ASI Translation. Region: Polish/Europe –

    Fuente: Gobierno de Polonia en poleco.

    Report from Saturday’s headquarters in Wrocław21.09.2024El prime minister Donald Tusk met once again in Wrocław with services and local government officials to discuss the situation in places that are still threatened by the great flood. During Saturday’s headquarters in Wrocław, he assured that the state will provide housing for all those affected by the flood.

    Preventive action

    The great flood continues to move through Poland. The services remain on full alert and monitor the situation, and where necessary, secure the area.

    In some places we are still in the middle of flood prevention and rescue operations.

    – the Prime Minister emphasized during the opening of the crisis headquarters. The head of government asked for information about places at risk to be provided as soon as possible, along with appropriate support, including sandbags.

    Post-flood reconstruction

    Yesterday, a decision was made to appoint a government plenipotentiary for the reconstruction of flood-affected areas, Marcin Kierwiński. Today at 1:00 PM, a meeting will be held with the voivodes to estimate the losses in flood-affected areas.

    This data does not have to be complete yet, but the data you provide, I would like it to be reliable, to be true. Para bromear is the most important thing at the moment.

    – said Donald Tusk. Voivodes’ reports are to take into account the losses that occurred in a given voivodeship due to the flood wave, including those resulting from rising groundwater.

    Replacement apartments for flood victims

    Due to the flood that swept through Poland, many people lost their homes and apartments. Some will only be able to return to their homes after some time, which is why the state provides flood victims with safe shelter.

    From the first days I have heard from people who have lost their apartments and houses – “where will we live?” We will provide housing for everyone, without exception.

    – the Prime Minister reported from Wrocław. During the headquarters meeting, the Prime Minister stressed that the state would make every effort to ensure that those affected by the flood would feel the consequences as little as possible.

    anchoo[container incrusted]

    MILES AXIS

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

    MIL Translation OSI

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

    MIL ASI Translation. Region: Polish/Europe –

    Fuente: Gobierno de Polonia en poleco.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    reconstruction program

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

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

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

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

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

    Investments in post-flood reconstruction

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

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

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

    Flood infrastructure

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

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

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

    Green schools

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

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

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

    Current flood risk

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

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

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

    MILES AXIS

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

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI Translation: 20/09/2024 Moody’s reports on the closing of the credit rating agreement in Poland

    MIL ASI Translation. Region: Polish/Europe –

    Fuente: Gobierno de Polonia en poleco.

    Moody’s informa sobre el cierre del acuerdo de calificación crediticia en Polonia20/09/2024

    On September 20, 2024, Moody’s published a press release announcing the completion of the periodic review of the rating. The Polish classification is at A2/P1 for long- and short-term liabilities, respectively. The rating outlook is stable. In the press release, Moody’s, as a justification for Poland’s rating, points to the strong dynamics of the Polish economy and improving relations with the European Union. The agency forecasts GDP growth at 3% in 2024 and an increase in dynamics to 3.5% in subsequent periods and indicates the lower complexity of the Polish economy compared to countries with a similar rating and a strong institutional framework. According to the agency, although the budget deficit is likely to remain above 5% of GDP due to higher defense spending and will contribute to a gradual increase in debt to 57% of GDP in 2025, both the debt burden and its servicing costs will be offset by solid economic growth prospects. In addition, Poland’s heightened vulnerability to geopolitical risk is mitigated by OTAN’s security guarantees. The rating takes into account Poland’s demographic challenges in the medium and long term.Calificación outlookThe rating could be upgraded in the event of improved relations between the President and the coalition government, which would allow for the rapid restoration of full judicial independence, as well as support the implementation of other CAP initiatives. Also, if the expected weakening of Poland’s debt ratios turns out to be less pronounced and intensified fiscal consolidation efforts lead to the debt level stabilizing well below 60% of GDP, ultimately restoring the public sector balance sheet to its pre-pandemic level, it would be a positive factor for an upgrade. Downward pressure on the rating would appear in a scenario of a significantly faster deterioration of debt ratios. The rating would be adversely affected by a renewed deterioration in the rule of law, negatively affecting doing business in Poland.

    MILES AXIS

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

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI: Bitget Announces Winners of Smart Awards 2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VICTORIA, Seychelles, Sept. 23, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bitget, the leading cryptocurrency exchange and Web3 company, has released the list of winners of its esteemed Smart Awards 2024 event, recognizing the top performers within the scope of a year in the crypto space across 5 categories. The event was held in collaboration with Bitget’s data provider — 0xScope, which ensured a transparent and fair winner selection process. 

    The highly anticipated Bitget Smart Awards 2024, which took place on September 12, concluded with the announcement of the lucky winners who outperformed the rest of the crypto market in the course of their trading activities on the platform. The prestigious online event, accompanied by a runner-up social media campaign, recognized the exceptional contributions of select individuals to the development of the crypto industry.

    The winners were dispersed across the following categories:

    • Smart Trader
    • Rising Star
    • Trading Maestro
    • Memecoin God
    • Elite Picker

    The Bitget team congratulates the winners and runners-up, as well as all those who have contributed to the development of the crypto industry through their engagement in it and the Bitget Smart Awards 2024.

    The event was hosted by two of Bitget’s outstanding KOL investors – Chris, Founder of Satoshi Stacker and SSventures, and Ran Neuner, Host of CNBC’s Crypto Trader and Founder of Crypto Banter. Among the guest presenters was also Co-founder and CEO of 0xScope – Phillip Torres.

    “We are delighted to have held this event and seen it through on such a high level of both presentation and involvement on the part of our wonderful audience. It is extremely gratifying to see the winners in their respective categories recognized for their contributions to the industry. We are certain that this will become a tradition and Bitget is sure to honor year-over-year,” as Gracy Chen, the CEO of Bitget, commented on the closing of the event.

    The collaboration with 0xScope as part of the event was meant to underscore the crucial role the company is playing in the organization of the selection process and the overall operation of the Bitget exchange. The data insights provided by 0xScope helped ensure that the awards reflected the best in crypto trading performance and identify the winners.

    The extensive advertising of the event on social media via hashtagging and the high level of engagement from the global crypto community were reflected in the success of the live ceremony, which is available on YouTube. The vibrant visuals and captivating speeches alone are reason enough to watch the ceremony through from start to finish.

    Bitget is committed to continuing the tradition in the coming years and intends to follow up with the winners to highlight their future successes. Audiences and traders alike are encouraged to stay tuned for future events and invite all users to participate in the ongoing #TradeSmarter campaign on social media by sharing their own “smart trading” experiences and stories. Six standout participants will be selected by Bitget to receive special rewards, with details of the event to be released in the near future.

    About Bitget
    Established in 2018, Bitget is the world’s leading cryptocurrency exchange and Web3 company. Serving over 30 million users in 100+ countries and regions, the Bitget exchange is committed to helping users trade smarter with its pioneering copy trading feature and other trading solutions. Formerly known as BitKeep, Bitget Wallet is a world-class multi-chain crypto wallet that offers an array of comprehensive Web3 solutions and features including wallet functionality, swap, NFT Marketplace, DApp browser, and more. Bitget inspires individuals to embrace crypto through collaborations with credible partners, including legendary Argentinian footballer Lionel Messi and Turkish National athletes Buse Tosun Çavuşoğlu (Wrestling world champion), Samet Gümüş (Boxing gold medalist) and İlkin Aydın (Volleyball national team).

    For more information, readers can visit: Website | Twitter | Telegram | LinkedIn | Discord | Bitget Wallet

    Contact

    PR
    Media
    Bitget
    media@bitget.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Electoral info centre open days set

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Registration & Electoral Office’s (REO) Electoral Information Centre will hold National Day Open Days from September 30 to October 2 and appointments for individual visits can be booked from today via the hotline.

    Open day programmes include a talk on electoral information, a mock polling session and National Day-related interactive games.

    Visitors can take photos with the National Day decorations and the festively dressed Ballot Box Family mascots at the venue as well as receive souvenirs of the Ballot Box Family in the National Day special edition.

    The REO earlier issued invitations to primary and secondary schools, and non-governmental organisations and institutions. The relevant group appointment quota is full.

    For individual visits, call the REO’s hotline at 2891 1001 from 8.45am to 6pm to make an appointment from today until September 27.

    Throughout the period of the open days, there will be a total of 10 sessions for individual visits, including three on September 30, five on October 1 and two on October 2, all in the afternoon. Each visit lasts for 30 minutes.

    All open day visits are free, with quotas allocated on a first come, first served basis.

    Click here for details.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Speech by Acting SJ at reception of National Day of Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (English only)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following is the speech by the Acting Secretary for Justice, Mr Cheung Kwok-kwan, at the reception of National Day of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, today (September 23):

    Your Excellency Mr Hamad Aljebreen (Consul General of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in Hong Kong), Deputy Commissioner Fang Jianming (Deputy Commissioner of the Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,

         Good evening. I’m pleased to be here tonight, in celebration of the national day of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

         Tonight’s gathering is also a welcome opportunity to meet, once again, with the Consul General and members of the Saudi business community.

         As the Consul General noted, the past year, and more, has seen remarkable growth in co-operation between our two economies, governments and peoples.

         And those welcome ties continue to grow and diversify. Just earlier this month, His Excellency Bandar Alkhorayef, Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, conducted an official visit to Hong Kong, during which he met with a variety of senior officials of our government.

         Hong Kong is the natural springboard for Saudi companies looking to the Greater Bay Area, and beyond, for opportunity.

         Next month, Cathay Pacific begins a thrice-weekly service between Hong Kong and Riyadh. That cheering link can only expand our rising business, trade and cultural exchanges.

         I’m pleased to say, we’re making progress, too, in legal co-operation. In March this year, I led a delegation of the legal sector to Riyadh to attend Riyadh International Disputes Week to share Hong Kong’s strengths in legal and dispute resolution services. The Secretary for Justice was also in Riyadh, in May this year, meeting with senior Saudi justice officials. His visit followed the signing, in April, of an MOU (Memorandum of Understanding) strengthening co-operation between the two places on issues relating to dispute avoidance and resolution. The arrangement underscores Hong Kong’s status as an international legal and dispute-resolution hub.

         Ladies and gentlemen, that barely touches on the wide-ranging initiatives bringing us together, working to create a rewarding, far-reaching future for us all.

         Consul General, over the years, you and your colleagues have taken an important role in forging closer economic ties and cultural exchanges with Hong Kong. For that, I would like to express my gratitude for your contribution to making the ties stronger.

         This evening, may I extend my best wishes to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and its people, on its national day, and to our enduring ties and friendship. And may I propose a toast: “To the people of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia”.

         Thank you.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

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

    MIL OSI Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI: Bitfarms and Riot Announce Settlement

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

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

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

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

    Under the terms of the Agreement:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    About Amy Freedman

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

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

    About Bitfarms Ltd.

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

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

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

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

    About Riot Platforms, Inc.

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

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

    For more information, visit www.riotplatforms.com.

    Cautionary Statement 

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

    Forward-Looking Statements 

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

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

    Investor Relations Contacts:

    For Bitfarms:

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

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

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

    For Riot:

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

    Media Contacts:

    For Bitfarms:

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

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

    For Riot:

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

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: OTC Markets Group Welcomes Armanino Foods of Distinction, Inc. to OTCQX

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, Sept. 23, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — OTC Markets Group Inc. (OTCQX: OTCM), operator of regulated markets for trading 12,000 U.S. and international securities, today announced Armanino Foods of Distinction, Inc. (OTCQX: AMNF), an international food manufacturer, has qualified to trade on the OTCQX® Best Market. Armanino Foods of Distinction, Inc. upgraded to OTCQX from the Pink® market.

    Armanino Foods of Distinction, Inc. begins trading today on OTCQX under the symbol “AMNF.” U.S. investors can find current financial disclosure and Real-Time Level 2 quotes for the company on www.otcmarkets.com.

    The OTCQX Market provides investors with a premium U.S. public market to research and trade the shares of investor-focused companies. Graduating to the OTCQX Market marks an important milestone for companies, enabling them to demonstrate their qualifications and build visibility among U.S. investors. To qualify for OTCQX, companies must meet high financial standards, follow best practice corporate governance, and demonstrate compliance with applicable securities laws. 

    Douglas R. Nichols, Chairman of the Board stated, “We are excited to elevate our company stock to the OTCQX tier that demonstrates our confidence in our financial strength and ability to continue to deliver strong shareholder value.  Our hope is that this upgrade will broaden the awareness of our company’s unique and leading position in the food sector, and provide greater opportunities for investors to participate in our success. This elevation also demonstrates the board’s commitment to enhance our corporate government practices.”

    About Armanino Foods of Distinction, Inc.
    Armanino Foods of Distinction, Inc. is an international food company that manufactures and markets frozen Italian specialty food items such as pestos, sauces and filled pastas to the foodservice, retail, and industrial markets. In addition to a classic Basil Pesto Armanino offers other flavors such as Cilantro, Dried Tomato & Garlic, Roasted Red Bell Pepper, Southwest Chipotle, Artichoke, Roasted Garlic, Chimichurri, Harissa, Bolognese and Alfredo sauce. Armanino’s organic line includes classic Basil Pesto. Armanino Foods also offers cheese shakers, frozen pastas, meatballs, and prepared meals.

    About OTC Markets Group Inc.
    OTC Markets Group Inc. (OTCQX: OTCM) operates regulated markets for trading 12,000 U.S. and international securities. Our data-driven disclosure standards form the foundation of our three public markets: OTCQX® Best Market, OTCQB® Venture Market and Pink® Open Market.

    Our OTC Link® Alternative Trading Systems (ATSs) provide critical market infrastructure that broker-dealers rely on to facilitate trading. Our innovative model offers companies more efficient access to the U.S. financial markets.

    OTC Link ATS, OTC Link ECN and OTC Link NQB are each an SEC regulated ATS, operated by OTC Link LLC, a FINRA and SEC registered broker-dealer, member SIPC.

    To learn more about how we create better informed and more efficient markets, visit www.otcmarkets.com.

    Subscribe to the OTC Markets RSS Feed

    Media Contact:
    OTC Markets Group Inc., +1 (212) 896-4428, media@otcmarkets.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Outbrain announces repurchase of remaining 2.95% Convertible Senior Notes due 2026

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, Sept. 23, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Outbrain Inc. (NASDAQ: OB), a leading technology platform that drives business results by engaging people across the Open Internet, announced today that it has repurchased all of the remaining $118 million in aggregate principal amount of the 2.95% Convertible Senior Notes due 2026 (the “Convertible Notes”) via a privately negotiated repurchase agreement with Baupost Group Securities, L.L.C., the sole holder of the Convertible Notes. The Company paid, including accrued interest, $109.7 million in cash representing a discount to par value of approximately 7.5%. As a result, Outbrain will record a pre-tax gain of approximately $8.8 million in the third quarter of 2024.

    Following the closing of the transaction, Outbrain has repurchased the entire principal balance of $236 million of the Convertible Notes, with no remaining debt on the balance sheet and approximately $128 million of cash, cash equivalents and investments in marketable securities, when adjusting the balance as of August 31, 2024 for the repayment. Outbrain repurchased the initial $118 million principal amount of the Convertible Notes in April 2023.

    “Our ability to generate cash and our strong balance sheet has enabled the opportunistic repurchase of the remaining balance of Convertible Notes, which is also in anticipation of the expected closing of the Teads acquisition. We believe this transaction strengthens our balance sheet, increasing our net cash balance as we maintain ample liquidity to support our future growth,” said Jason Kiviat, Outbrain’s CFO.

    This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation to buy any of the Convertible Notes described herein or any securities of the Company, nor shall there be any offer, solicitation, or sale of the Convertible Notes or any securities of the Company in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws, which statements involve substantial risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements may include, without limitation, statements generally relating to possible or assumed future results of our business, financial condition, results of operations, liquidity, plans and objectives and statements relating to the transaction to acquire Teads (“Transaction”). You can generally identify forward-looking statements because they contain words such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “expects,” “plans,” “anticipates,” “could,” “intends,” “guidance,” “outlook,” “target,” “projects,” “contemplates,” “believes,” “estimates,” “predicts,” “foresee,” “potential” or “continue” or the negative of these terms or other similar expressions that concern our expectations, strategy, plans or intentions or are not statements of historical fact. We have based these forward-looking statements largely on our expectations and projections regarding future events and trends that we believe may affect our business, financial condition, and results of operations. The outcome of the events described in these forward-looking statements is subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors including, but not limited to: overall advertising demand and traffic generated by our media partners; factors that affect advertising demand and spending, such as the continuation or worsening of unfavorable economic or business conditions or downturns, instability or volatility in financial markets, and other events or factors outside of our control, such as U.S. and global recession concerns, geopolitical concerns, including the ongoing war between Ukraine-Russia and conditions in Israel, supply chain issues, inflationary pressures, labor market volatility, bank closures or disruptions, and the impact of challenging economic conditions, political and policy uncertainties with the approach of the U.S. presidential election, and other factors that have and may further impact advertisers’ ability to pay; our ability to continue to innovate, and adoption by our advertisers and media partners of our expanding solutions; the success of our sales and marketing investments, which may require significant investments and may involve long sales cycles; our ability to grow our business and manage growth effectively; our ability to compete effectively against current and future competitors; the loss or decline of one or more of our large media partners, and our ability to expand our advertiser and media partner relationships; conditions in Israel, including the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas and other terrorist organizations, may limit our ability to market, support and innovate on our products due to the impact on our employees as well as our advertisers and their advertising markets, our ability to maintain our revenues or profitability despite quarterly fluctuations in our results, whether due to seasonality, large cyclical events, or other causes; the risk that our research and development efforts may not meet the demands of a rapidly evolving technology market; any failure of our recommendation engine to accurately predict attention or engagement, any deterioration in the quality of our recommendations or failure to present interesting content to users or other factors which may cause us to experience a decline in user engagement or loss of media partners; limits on our ability to collect, use and disclose data to deliver advertisements; our ability to extend our reach into evolving digital media platforms; our ability to maintain and scale our technology platform; our ability to meet demands on our infrastructure and resources due to future growth or otherwise; our failure or the failure of third parties to protect our sites, networks and systems against security breaches, or otherwise to protect the confidential information of us or our partners; outages or disruptions that impact us or our service providers, resulting from cyber incidents, or failures or loss of our infrastructure; significant fluctuations in currency exchange rates; political and regulatory risks in the various markets in which we operate; the challenges of compliance with differing and changing regulatory requirements; the timing and execution of any cost-saving measures and the impact on our business or strategy; our ability and the time required to consummate the Transaction; our ability to successfully integrate Teads’s operations, technologies and employees and to recognize the anticipated benefits and synergies of the Transaction, including the expectation of enhancements to our services, greater revenue or growth opportunities, operating efficiencies and cost savings; the potential impact of the announcement or pendency of the Transaction on ongoing business operations and relationships, including our ability to maintain relationships with employees, customers, suppliers and others with whom we do business; the amount of costs, fees, expenses and charges relating to the Transaction; the initiation or outcome of any legal proceedings that may be instituted following the announcement of the Transaction; and the risks described in the section entitled “Risk Factors” and elsewhere in the Annual Report on Form 10-K filed for the year ended December 31, 2023 and in subsequent reports filed with the SEC. Accordingly, you should not rely upon forward-looking statements as an indication of future performance. We cannot assure you that the results, events and circumstances reflected in the forward-looking statements will be achieved or will occur, and actual results, events, or circumstances could differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements made in this press release relate only to events as of the date on which the statements are made. We may not actually achieve the plans, intentions or expectations disclosed in our forward-looking statements and you should not place undue reliance on our forward-looking statements. We undertake no obligation and do not assume any obligation to update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or circumstances after the date on which the statements are made or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events or otherwise, except as required by law.

    About Outbrain

    Outbrain (Nasdaq: OB) is a leading technology platform that drives business results by engaging people across the Open Internet. Outbrain predicts moments of engagement to drive measurable outcomes for advertisers and publishers using AI and machine learning across more than 8,000 online properties globally. Founded in 2006, Outbrain is headquartered in New York with offices in Israel and across the United States, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and South America.

    For more information, visit https://www.outbrain.com.

    Media Contact

    press@outbrain.com

    Investor Relations Contact

    IR@outbrain.com

    (332) 205-8999

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Chancellor unveils package to deliver promises of new government

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    The Chancellor has today unveiled a package of measures to deliver on the agenda of the new government.

    • 750 schools with primary aged pupils funded for breakfast club pilot to run from April 2025
    • New Industrial Strategy to be published in spring
    • Decision to write off over £640 million in written off Covid PPE contracts reversed
    • HMRC to consult on e-invoicing for businesses and government departments

    The Chancellor has today unveiled a package of measures to deliver on the agenda of the new government including a breakfast club pilot for 750 schools with primary aged pupils, new powers for the Covid Corruption Commissioner, e-invoicing to support business and the next steps on the government’s industrial strategy.

    School Breakfast Club Pilot

    The Chancellor announced that up to 750 schools with primary aged pupils will be invited to take part in a £7 million breakfast club pilot. The funding will allow these schools to run free breakfast clubs for their pupils in the summer term (April-July 2025).

    The Department for Education will work with the schools selected as part of the pilot to understand how breakfast clubs can be delivered to meet the needs of schools, parents and pupils when the programme is rolled out nationally.

    This will help reduce the number of students at schools with primary aged pupils starting the school day hungry and ensure children come to school ready to learn. It will also support the government’s aim to tackle child poverty by addressing rising food insecurity among children.

    Covid Corruption Commissioner

    Reeves also announced a block on any Covid-era PPE contract being abandoned or waived until it has been assessed by the new Covid Corruption Commissioner, whom will be appointed in October. 

    The decision will affect £647 million of Covid PPE contracts where contract recovery was previously earmarked to be waived. 

    It follows action already in motion to cut government waste and curb unnecessary spending. In her statement to Parliament in July, the Chancellor pledged to halve government consultancy spend from 2025-26, with savings targets of £550 million this financial year and a further £680 million in the next already announced.

    Excessive use of ministerial travel by aeroplane and helicopter is also being cutdown, with a contract for a VIP helicopter previously cancelled.

    Industrial Strategy

    The Chancellor also today announced that the Industrial Strategy will be at the heart of the government’s mission to grow the economy, unlock investment and make every part of the country better off. It will focus on delivering long-term change to the economy by making Britain a clean energy superpower and accelerating to net zero, breaking down barriers to regional growth, and building a secure and resilient economy.

    A green paper will be published around Budget in October outlining the long-term sectoral growth and priority industries of the government, ahead of the final strategy published in the spring of 2025 following a consultation with business.

    HMRC package

    Chancellor Reeves also outlined a package of reforms to improve the UK’s tax system to help fix the foundations of the UK economy.

    As part of the package, HMRC will soon launch a consultation on electronic invoicing (e-invoicing) to promote its wider use across UK businesses and government departments.

    The introduction of e-invoicing can significantly reduce administrative tasks, improve cash flow, boost productivity, introduce automation, and reduce errors in tax returns – all helping to close the tax gap. The consultation will gather input from businesses on how HMRC can support investment in and encourage e-invoicing uptake.

    The Chancellor also announced that Exchequer Secretary to the Treasury James Murray, the minister responsible for the UK’s tax system, has become the Chair of the HMRC Board. This is to help oversee the implementation of his three strategic priorities for HMRC; closing the tax gap, modernising and reforming, and improving customer service.

    It was also announced that a new Digital Transformation Roadmap, aimed to be published in Spring 2025, will set out HMRC’s vision to be a digital first organisation underpinned by customer insight. The Roadmap will include measures to ensure digital inclusion and support for customers who cannot yet interact digitally.

    There was a further update that new staff are expected to join HMRC’s training programme in November as 200 additional offer letters have been issued as part of the 450 letters already sent. This is part of HMRC’s plans to recruit an additional 5,000 compliance staff to help close the tax gap.

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 September 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Africa50 investment platform gets thumbs up for its innovative financing, strategic partnerships and performance

    Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

    ANTANANARIVO, Madagascar, September 23, 2024/APO Group/ —

    Presidents of Madagascar and Tanzania praise Africa50’s critical role in addressing the continent’s infrastructure challenges; Africa50 has mobilized over $1.1 billion in capital commitments and catalyzed an additional $4.4 billion in external financing in just seven years, Adesina.

    Africa50 (www.Africa50.com), the investment platform established by African governments and the African Development Bank, is exceeding expectations and closing critical infrastructure funding gaps through innovative financing mechanisms and strategic partnerships, stakeholders heard on Thursday.

    Speaking at Africa50’s 2024 annual General Shareholders Meeting held in Antananarivo, the President of Madagascar, Andry Rajoelina, and his Tanzanian counterpart,  Samia Suluhu Hassan, acknowledged the institution’s pivotal role in addressing the continent’s infrastructure and economic challenges, creating a foundation for sustainable development and prosperity.  

    President Rajoelina highlighted how Africa50 is driving transformational change by mobilizing financing for large-scale infrastructure projects in his country and across the continent.

    He said Madagascar, with its abundant natural and renewable resources, has become a model for energy transition, and added that the country needs the support of international partners such as Africa50.

     “To realise our vision, we need the support of international partners, and this is where the role of Africa50 members is crucial. We need to work together to secure funding for ambitious projects and enable Madagascar to make the transition to green, sustainable energy. This is a challenge for the whole of Africa,” the president said.

    He remarked that the continent has a unique opportunity to reaffirm itself as a global leader in the climate change challenge by supporting innovative and sustainable projects. “Africa is not the problem, Africa is a solution.”

    President Samia Suluhu Hassan, in a speech read by the  Minister of Finance and Planning, Mwigulu Lameck Nchemba Madelu, described clean cooking as an international agenda and a business that must be treated as such.

    According to the International Energy Agency, nearly one billion people in Africa cook with polluting fuels, which has a direct impact on health and leads to half a million premature deaths every year. Yet, the cost of solving the clean energy problem is relatively low.

    The Tanzanian leader encouraged the use of clean cooking microfinance by providing low-interest loans to households to purchase clean cookstoves, allowing for a more manageable transition to clean cooking solutions… “It is crucial to make clean cooking affordable, especially in low-income areas. Governments can introduce effective incentives for producers and consumers to reduce the cost of cooking materials,” the Tanzanian president said.

    The meeting brought together global leaders, policymakers, investors, and infrastructure experts to strategize and collaborate on the actions needed to mobilize investment in a sustainable future for Africa.

    “The fact that Africa50 is exceeding expectations and bridging the funding gap by tackling today’s challenges through innovative financing mechanisms and strategic partnerships is good news for Africa and the world,” President and Chairman of the Boards of Directors of the African Development Bank Group Dr. Akinwunmi Adesina said in a keynote speech at the event.

    Adesina, who is also Chairman of the Africa50 Board of Directors, told the meeting that Africa50 has mobilized over $1.1 billion in capital commitments and catalyzed an additional $4.4 billion in external financing In just seven years of operation. “Its portfolio includes 25 transformative projects in 28 countries, with a total value exceeding $8 billion across energy, transport, digital infrastructure, education, and healthcare sectors.”

    In December 2023, the Africa50 Infrastructure Acceleration Fund (IAF) secured $222.5 million at first close from predominantly African investors, a first for the continent.

    Africa50’s vision for Africa’s future

    With Africa’s population projected to reach 2.5 billion by 2050 and a booming consumer market, the continent will be one of the most sought-after investment destinations in the world, Adesina told the meeting, “We are determined to continue mobilizing capital, overcoming barriers to investment, and delivering transformative projects.”

    In his remarks, Africa50 CEO Alain Ebobissé said over the past year, the institution had invested in key infrastructure projects, guided by the need for speed and scale in implementation for the continent. “Investors manage more than $2.3 trillion in Africa. Africa50 aims to mobilise and catalyse some of this capital to finance infrastructure in Africa,” he said.

    He highlighted Africa50’s Infrastructure Acceleration Fund as an achievement that is the first of its kind in Africa.

    “This fund is a significant step forward in mobilising African capital to bridge Africa’s infrastructure gap,” Ebobissé added.

    In 2023, Africa50 demonstrated its potential by facilitating significant foreign direct investment in clean energy, even as global FDI declined by 3%.

    With over 60% of the world’s solar energy potential, Africa has a golden opportunity to pursue a low-carbon energy trajectory, expand its electricity supply, and decarbonize its economies.

    Madagascar, the world’s fourth-largest island nation, was cited as an example of how infrastructure development can stimulate economic growth.

    The African Development Bank’s commitments in Madagascar total more than 1 billion dollars, with transport, energy, and agriculture accounting for more than 97% of the portfolio.

    The flagship Sahofika project, which will be the benchmark for green baseload in the country’s energy mix, will reduce the share of thermal power generation to less than of thermal generation to less than 10%, cutting the country’s generation costs by more than 30%.

    Transport infrastructure

    The African Development Bank remains committed to supporting Madagascar in its efforts to improve connectivity and promote trade across the continent through sustainable transport infrastructure projects, Adesina said.

    “Thanks to the corridor development and trade facilitation project, 165 km of roads, including the Analamisampy-Manja section, along with four bridges on the RN9, have been constructed, reducing travel time from 48 hours to just 5 hours,” Adesina said.

    “Transport infrastructure improvements are also revolutionizing trade and travel, reducing travel times along key corridors from 48 hours to just five hours,” he added.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: African Leaders Meet to Combat Land Degradation and Desertification at African Ministerial Conference on the Environment (AMCEN) Special Session

    Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

    ABIDJAN, Ivory Coast, September 23, 2024/APO Group/ —

    The African Development Bank (www.AfDB.org), the African Union Commission, the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), and the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) brought together African ministers of environment in Abidjan to adopt the Abidjan Declaration (https://apo-opa.co/3BnJ6GN), a commitment to jointly tackle land degradation, desertification, and drought across Africa.

    The 10th Special Session of the African Ministerial Conference on the Environment (AMCEN), held from 3-6 September, served as a platform to generate political momentum and secure essential financing and partnerships to address these urgent environmental challenges. Key discussions focused on four critical policy areas: mitigating droughts in Africa; enhancing ambition to achieve land degradation neutrality targets; promoting ecosystem restoration opportunities; and strengthening partnerships for implementation and resource mobilisation.

    The dialogue is expected to shape Africa’s strategies on finance, natural capital, and addressing marine and coastal challenges ahead of the UNCCD COP 16 to be held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from December 2 to 13, 2024. 

    The Prime Minister of Côte d’Ivoire, Robert Beugré Mambé attended. In opening remarks, he said: “There is a very concerning imbalance. We must stay informed in order to provide responses to our concerns, particularly to the global community, which is worried about the highly negative impact of climate change on our economic, human, and social activities. Some examples show that climate change affects more than 100 million hectares of land each year.”

    Dr. Osama Ibrahim Faqiha, Deputy Minister at Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture and Advisor to the COP16 Riyadh Presidency also attended the ministerial dialogue. He said, “Elevating Africa’s ambitions to combat land degradation aligns with the message we wish to convey at COP16. It is crucial that land is prioritised in global efforts against drought, famine, rising carbon emissions, and forced migration—issues that have too often been sidelined.”

    The Abidjan Declaration, adopted on September 6, 2024, during the conference, reflects the commitment of African governments to addressing the challenges of desertification and land degradation. Over 65 percent of the continent’s land is affected by degradation, impacting 400 million people.

    Kevin Kariuki, African Development Bank Vice President for Power, Energy, Climate and Green Growth, underscored the significance of these discussions. “Today’s session is an opportunity to review Africa’s progress since COP 15 in May 2022. The challenges of land degradation and drought are pressing, and we are committed to finding urgent solutions as we implement our Ten-Year Strategy for 2024-2033,” he said.

    Anthony Nyong, Climate Change and Growth Director at the African Development Bank, called for a shift in narrative regarding Africa’s challenges. “Partnership is essential in tackling the complex issues of land degradation, drought, and desertification. We must adopt an integrated, sustainable approach, prioritizing investments in sustainable land practices and climate resilience. However, the prevailing narrative of vulnerability and underdevelopment obscures the climate opportunities and deters private investment.”

    MIL OSI Africa –