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  • MIL-OSI Global: What the killing of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar could mean for the Middle East – expert Q&A

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Scott Lucas, Professor of International Politics, Clinton Institute, University College Dublin

    Israel has announced it has killed Hamas military leader Yahya Sinwar in Gaza. Sinwar was apparently killed in a chance encounter on October 16 after a tank unit opened fire on a group of Palestinian men running into a building in Rafah in the southern Gaza Strip. His body was found in the rubble and later identified as the Hamas leader.

    It’s an important moment in the conflict between Israel and Hamas. Sinwar’s death follows a campaign of assassination of top Hamas leaders by Israel since the latest round of hostilities began after the Hamas attack on Israel of October 7 2023.

    Middle East analyst Scott Lucas of University College Dublin addresses some of the key issues raised by Sinwar’s killing.

    How badly Sinwar’s death hit Hamas’s command structure?

    Just over a year after its mass October 7 killings inside Israel, overseen by Yahya Sinwar, Hamas as an organisation is in disarray. It is not just the killing of Sinwar in the chance encounter with Israeli forces in Rafah. Sinwar’s death adds to a lengthy roll call of top Hamas leaders during the past year.

    Principally, this includes Mohammed Deif, who planned the October 7 attacks, and Hamas’s political leader Ismail Haniyeh, who was killed in Beirut on July 31. These three are just the most prominent identities among a host of other senior officials and military commanders killed by Israel in Gaza or Lebanon.

    Sinwar’s younger brother, Mohammed, 49, is likely to take over military command. And veteran figures such as Khaled Meshaal – who led Hamas’s political bureau from 1996 to 2017 – remain. But they will struggle to sustain the organisation, particularly if the Israeli government presses its military advantage and continues to identify and assassinate Hamas’s high command.

    But that does not mean that Hamas as a movement is finished. Mass killing, even of its leaders, could galvanise it in the longer run. Those who survive will move up through the ranks, and the spirit of resistance and resentment could bring in more recruits.

    Israel’s prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, can claim “victory” over Sinwar, Haniyeh and Deif. But victory over Hamas, particularly if Israel pursues an open-ended occupation in Gaza, may not be assured.

    What did Sinwar represent as a symbol of Palestinian resistance?

    For many in Palestine and beyond, Sinwar will be hailed as a martyr and icon of resistance. He was with Hamas from its first years, spent 22 years in an Israeli prison, and took command in Gaza from 2017. He never wavered in his belief that Hamas would prevail over Israel’s blockade, detentions, and military operations.

    But for others, Sinwar may be remembered as a divisive, even cruel figure. He built his career in Hamas on the killing of supposed “collaborators” with Israel. He was suspected of the torture and execution of rivals. And his leadership of the October 7 mass killings may be recalled as “resistance” which needlessly sacrificed the lives of tens of thousands and displaced almost 2 million of those whom he was supposedly representing.

    Does his death clear the way for a younger generation more amenable to a ceasefire deal and the return of the hostages?

    It will take months, perhaps years before we see where that “younger generation” will take Hamas. In the meantime, the interim political and military command of the battered organisation will face their immediate challenge. Can they still get some return, such as the freeing of Palestinians from Israeli prisons and the continued presence of Hamas in Gaza, in exchange for the release of the hostages? Or do they have to accept capitulation, possible expulsion, and Israeli occupation?

    Barring an unexpected change in the US position, putting pressure on Netanyahu, all the cards are in Israel’s hand for now.

    What’s Israel’s next move?

    Ask Netanyahu. He has the option of proclaiming “mission accomplished”. However, that will not be true for many Israelis as long as the hostages are not returned. Without that resolution, Netanyahu will run the risk of losing power if forced to an election and even the resumption of court proceedings over bribery charges if he halts military operations.

    Israel’s expansion of the war into Lebanon has improved his position to an extent. It has reconciled him with the defense minister, Yoav Gallant, who was privately saying Israel had no “endgame” in Gaza. And it has improved his approval ratings.

    So it remains in his interest to continue hostilities in both Gaza and Lebanon. And indeed Netanyahu has signalled his intention to press on. But he has also said that while it is not the end, it is “the beginning of the end”.

    While Netanyahu may pay lip service to the resumption of ceasefire talks, that will likely be conditional on the expulsion of Hamas from Gaza. And with no clear alternative for governance in the Strip, that points – as with the West Bank – to indefinite Israeli occupation.



    Read more:
    Israel: what hardliners in Netanyahu’s government want from the war

    How will Iran respond?

    With the decimation of its Hamas and Hezbollah allies, Iran’s regime appears to have no good options at present. Amid economic and political problems at home and outmatched by Israel in military capabilities, the regime has avoided direct confrontation.

    Iran could continue to pursue “indirect” war through militias in Iraq and Syria attacking US personnel with rockets and drones, or with Yemen’s Houthis lobbing missiles at Israel and again threatening Red Sea shipping. It could expand cyber-attacks and its own attempted assassinations abroad.

    But those options would have little immediate effect, and would risk retaliation from the US and further isolation in the international community. The US is already using B-2 stealth bombers to attack Houthi bases in Yemen.

    So for now, Iran’s leaders and their spokespeople are likely to take the political route, condemning Israel and proclaiming that the “axis of resistance” will be strengthened through its losses.



    Read more:
    As its conflict with Israel escalates, could Iran now acquire a nuclear bomb?

    Can Washington now pressure Israel to do a deal with the Palestinians?

    This is perhaps the easiest question to answer. Unless the US cuts military aid to Israel or comes out for an unconditional ceasefire, it has little if any leverage with Netanyahu.

    How does this affect the US election campaign?

    Foreign policy is rarely a priority for most US voters, and even the mass killing of the past year is unlikely to change that. But on the margins of the US presidential election, the escalating toll in Gaza and Lebanon could alienate Arab American voters from the Democrats in Michigan, one of the seven states that will decide the contest.

    More broadly, the impression of Netanyahu pushing around a “weak” Biden administration could take hold. And in a toss-up election, those margins could be decisive.



    Read more:
    How the Middle East conflict could influence the US election – and why Arab Americans in swing states might vote for Trump

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

    – ref. What the killing of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar could mean for the Middle East – expert Q&A – https://theconversation.com/what-the-killing-of-hamas-leader-yahya-sinwar-could-mean-for-the-middle-east-expert-qanda-241699

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Partners gather at Guildhall for Climate Action conference

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    Partners gather at Guildhall for Climate Action conference

    18 October 2024

    Some of the leading voices in the campaign for Sustainability and Climate Action gathered this week at the Guildhall for the Derry and Strabane Sustainability and Climate Commission Launch and Community Showcase 2024 Event.

    The event marked the official launch of the Derry & Strabane Sustainability and Climate Commission, a significant cross-sectoral partnership dedicated to working together to identify solutions that meet the climate and ecological needs of the City and District, as well as the broader region.

    Established in January 2024, the Commission is the second of its kind in N. Ireland and members stem from Northern Ireland government departments, agencies, communities, education, and business.

    Mayor of Derry and Strabane, Councillor Lilian Seenoi Barr opened the event, reaffirming Derry City and Strabane District Council’s commitment to working with local partners to address the climate and ecological crisis. “I was delighted to see so many organisations represented at today’s conference, and the shared commitment to pioneering cross-sectoral sustainability and climate action,” she declared. “As a Council we have been working to deliver our Climate Pledge towards a net zero, climate resilient City & District by 2045, but we recognise that we need to work collaboratively with everyone to turn this ambition into action.  In order to bring about impactful and sustainable change on a scale that will really protect and preserve our natural environment and local communities, it’s essential that we work together and draw on the expertise and resources of a wide range of partners,” she stressed.

    The Derry and Strabane Sustainability and Climate Commission chair Professor Ian Montgomery from Ulster University said: “Climate change is the greatest threat facing humanity, with the last ten years being the warmest on record, with shifting weather patterns causing difficulties worldwide. It is incumbent on all of us as world citizens to cutting our carbon emissions and playing our part in saving our planet – the only home we’ve ever known. Derry City and Strabane District Council have shown great leadership in bringing together stakeholders from many sectors to debate and plan how their Climate Commission can take a leading role in positive climate action for all their citizens.”

    Climate Programme Manager with Council, who hosted the event, Cathy Burns, said afterwards: “The conference provided an opportunity to unite national leaders, policymakers, industry experts, and community leaders to address the pressing challenges presented by the climate and ecological crisis. There is recognition by all our partners that we urgently need to address issues of sustainability, biodiversity loss, greenhouse gas emissions and the preservation of our natural environment for the betterment of all our communities. We had the chance to look at some of the fantastic work already ongoing across Derry and Strabane and to hear from some of the leading voices on pioneering climate and sustainability strategies.

    “We are now calling on our communities, businesses, public sector and education to get involved and be part of the dialogue. We need to work in partnership to find solutions and create a better future for all.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Global: What the killing of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar could mean for the Middle East – expert Q&A

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Scott Lucas, Professor of International Politics, Clinton Institute, University College Dublin

    Israel has announced it has killed Hamas military leader Yahya Sinwar in Gaza. Sinwar was apparently killed in a chance encounter on October 16 after a tank unit opened fire on a group of Palestinian men running into a building in Rafah in the southern Gaza Strip. His body was found in the rubble and later identified as the Hamas leader.

    It’s an important moment in the conflict between Israel and Hamas. Sinwar’s death follows a campaign of assassination of top Hamas leaders by Israel since the latest round of hostilities began after the Hamas attack on Israel of October 7 2023.

    Middle East analyst Scott Lucas of University College Dublin addresses some of the key issues raised by Sinwar’s killing.

    How badly Sinwar’s death hit Hamas’s command structure?

    Just over a year after its mass October 7 killings inside Israel, overseen by Yahya Sinwar, Hamas as an organisation is in disarray. It is not just the killing of Sinwar in the chance encounter with Israeli forces in Rafah. Sinwar’s death adds to a lengthy roll call of top Hamas leaders during the past year.

    Principally, this includes Mohammed Deif, who planned the October 7 attacks, and Hamas’s political leader Ismail Haniyeh, who was killed in Beirut on July 31. These three are just the most prominent identities among a host of other senior officials and military commanders killed by Israel in Gaza or Lebanon.

    Sinwar’s younger brother, Mohammed, 49, is likely to take over military command. And veteran figures such as Khaled Meshaal – who led Hamas’s political bureau from 1996 to 2017 – remain. But they will struggle to sustain the organisation, particularly if the Israeli government presses its military advantage and continues to identify and assassinate Hamas’s high command.

    But that does not mean that Hamas as a movement is finished. Mass killing, even of its leaders, could galvanise it in the longer run. Those who survive will move up through the ranks, and the spirit of resistance and resentment could bring in more recruits.

    Israel’s prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, can claim “victory” over Sinwar, Haniyeh and Deif. But victory over Hamas, particularly if Israel pursues an open-ended occupation in Gaza, may not be assured.

    What did Sinwar represent as a symbol of Palestinian resistance?

    For many in Palestine and beyond, Sinwar will be hailed as a martyr and icon of resistance. He was with Hamas from its first years, spent 22 years in an Israeli prison, and took command in Gaza from 2017. He never wavered in his belief that Hamas would prevail over Israel’s blockade, detentions, and military operations.

    But for others, Sinwar may be remembered as a divisive, even cruel figure. He built his career in Hamas on the killing of supposed “collaborators” with Israel. He was suspected of the torture and execution of rivals. And his leadership of the October 7 mass killings may be recalled as “resistance” which needlessly sacrificed the lives of tens of thousands and displaced almost 2 million of those whom he was supposedly representing.

    Does his death clear the way for a younger generation more amenable to a ceasefire deal and the return of the hostages?

    It will take months, perhaps years before we see where that “younger generation” will take Hamas. In the meantime, the interim political and military command of the battered organisation will face their immediate challenge. Can they still get some return, such as the freeing of Palestinians from Israeli prisons and the continued presence of Hamas in Gaza, in exchange for the release of the hostages? Or do they have to accept capitulation, possible expulsion, and Israeli occupation?

    Barring an unexpected change in the US position, putting pressure on Netanyahu, all the cards are in Israel’s hand for now.

    What’s Israel’s next move?

    Ask Netanyahu. He has the option of proclaiming “mission accomplished”. However, that will not be true for many Israelis as long as the hostages are not returned. Without that resolution, Netanyahu will run the risk of losing power if forced to an election and even the resumption of court proceedings over bribery charges if he halts military operations.

    Israel’s expansion of the war into Lebanon has improved his position to an extent. It has reconciled him with the defense minister, Yoav Gallant, who was privately saying Israel had no “endgame” in Gaza. And it has improved his approval ratings.

    So it remains in his interest to continue hostilities in both Gaza and Lebanon. And indeed Netanyahu has signalled his intention to press on. But he has also said that while it is not the end, it is “the beginning of the end”.

    While Netanyahu may pay lip service to the resumption of ceasefire talks, that will likely be conditional on the expulsion of Hamas from Gaza. And with no clear alternative for governance in the Strip, that points – as with the West Bank – to indefinite Israeli occupation.



    Read more:
    Israel: what hardliners in Netanyahu’s government want from the war

    How will Iran respond?

    With the decimation of its Hamas and Hezbollah allies, Iran’s regime appears to have no good options at present. Amid economic and political problems at home and outmatched by Israel in military capabilities, the regime has avoided direct confrontation.

    Iran could continue to pursue “indirect” war through militias in Iraq and Syria attacking US personnel with rockets and drones, or with Yemen’s Houthis lobbing missiles at Israel and again threatening Red Sea shipping. It could expand cyber-attacks and its own attempted assassinations abroad.

    But those options would have little immediate effect, and would risk retaliation from the US and further isolation in the international community. The US is already using B-2 stealth bombers to attack Houthi bases in Yemen.

    So for now, Iran’s leaders and their spokespeople are likely to take the political route, condemning Israel and proclaiming that the “axis of resistance” will be strengthened through its losses.



    Read more:
    As its conflict with Israel escalates, could Iran now acquire a nuclear bomb?

    Can Washington now pressure Israel to do a deal with the Palestinians?

    This is perhaps the easiest question to answer. Unless the US cuts military aid to Israel or comes out for an unconditional ceasefire, it has little if any leverage with Netanyahu.

    How does this affect the US election campaign?

    Foreign policy is rarely a priority for most US voters, and even the mass killing of the past year is unlikely to change that. But on the margins of the US presidential election, the escalating toll in Gaza and Lebanon could alienate Arab American voters from the Democrats in Michigan, one of the seven states that will decide the contest.

    More broadly, the impression of Netanyahu pushing around a “weak” Biden administration could take hold. And in a toss-up election, those margins could be decisive.



    Read more:
    How the Middle East conflict could influence the US election – and why Arab Americans in swing states might vote for Trump

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

    – ref. What the killing of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar could mean for the Middle East – expert Q&A – https://theconversation.com/what-the-killing-of-hamas-leader-yahya-sinwar-could-mean-for-the-middle-east-expert-qanda-241699

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Southsea Coastal Scheme starts new stage of sea defence

    Source: City of Portsmouth

    The latest stage of the Southsea Coastal Scheme will get underway between Blue Reef Aquarium and the Hovertravel terminal on Monday 21 October, with the area due to reopen in summer 2026.

    During construction, Clarence Esplanade and the promenade and road will be closed and a diversion route will be in place for pedestrians and road users. A temporary footpath across Southsea Common, behind the Naval War Memorial, has been constructed to provide pedestrian access along the area during construction.

    Nearby businesses including the Blue Reef Aquarium, Hovertravel and Clarence Pier will remain open, but The Beach Club and Southsea Rowing Club will close. The Rowing Club has been relocated to a temporary building in Pier Road.

    Cllr Steve Pitt, Leader of Portsmouth City Council, said:

    “The temporary closure of this area is necessary for building essential sea defences to protect Portsmouth for the next 100 years.

    “The coastal team has worked hard to ensure that access around the area is as smooth as possible and, in particular, putting measures in place at the Naval War Memorial.

    “Looking forward, we’ve identified Serpentine Square as a great location for placing artwork along the seafront so that will be an exciting future project for local artists to get involved in.”

    Guy Mason, Project Director of the Southsea Coastal Scheme, added:

    “I’d like to thank the public for their patience as we work to improve the seafront area alongside building the sea defence.

    “Looking at the completed areas around Long Curtain Moat and Southsea Castle, it’s clear that we have vastly enhanced the features along the seafront and, as a result, seen increased visitors to the areas. We’re looking forward to doing the same at this already imposing section of the seafront.”

    Once reopened, visitors to the section of seafront between Blue Reef Aquarium and Hovertravel can expect to see several changes for the better, including:

    • A one-way road system (westbound) with a single carriageway and a reduction in speed limit from 30mph to 20mph.
    • A 3m wide two-way cycle lane running alongside the promenade, segregated from carparking by a 2m buffer strip.
    • An 8m wide promenade in most areas.
    • Grade II listed memorials placed centrally along the promenade to create a ‘memorial walk’.
    • Coastal planted terraces, play areas, new lighting and seating.

    In December 2024, the coastal defences phase between the Pyramids and Speakers’ Corner is scheduled to open.

    The entire scheme is due for completion in early 2029.

    The Portsmouth City Council project is the largest local authority led flood defence scheme in the UK, worth £180m.

    Find out more about this phase of the scheme on the Southsea Coastal Scheme website.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Zambia: Authorities must immediately release arrested journalist Thomas Allan Zgambo  

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Responding to the arrest of Zambian journalist Thomas Allan Zgambo in Lusaka, Amnesty International’s Deputy Director for East and Southern Africa, Vongai Chikwanda, said: 

    “Zambian authorities must immediately and unconditionally release journalist Thomas Allan Zgambo and stop targeting him simply for doing his job.  

    Journalism is not a crime. In fact, Zambia’s Constitution guarantees the right to freedom of expression and media freedom.

    Vongai Chikwanda, Amnesty International Deputy Regional Director for East and Southern Africa

    “Journalism is not a crime. In fact, Zambia’s Constitution guarantees the right to freedom of expression and media freedom. Authorities must uphold their constitutional and international human rights obligations and allow journalists to freely carry out their work.” 

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Lo Chung-mau meets GD, SZ officials

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Secretary for Health Prof Lo Chung-mau led a delegation to Shenzhen today to meet health officials of Guangdong Province and Shenzhen Municipality.

    He met Health Commission of Guangdong Province Deputy Director-General Deng Linfeng, Guangdong Provincial Medical Products Administration Deputy Commissioner Wang Ling and Public Hygiene & Health Commission of Shenzhen Municipality Deputy Director Li Chuang.

    Prof Lo introduced to them the initiatives on developing Hong Kong into an international health and medical innovation hub and aspects of deepening medical collaboration in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA), as set out in the 2024 Policy Address.

    The health chief noted that the Resolution of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee on Further Deepening Reform Comprehensively to Advance Chinese Modernization adopted by the Third Plenary Session of the 20th CPC Central Committee mentions further reform of the medical and healthcare systems and support for the development of innovative drugs and medical devices.

    The Development Plan for Shenzhen Park of Hetao Shenzhen-Hong Kong Science & Technology Innovation Co-operation promulgated by the State Council put forward the synergistic development of Shenzhen and Hong Kong under the “one zone, two park” model, expressing clear support for the innovative application of advanced biomedicine technologies by capitalising on the role of the GBA International Clinical Trial Centre, he added.

    “The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government is determined to leverage the advantages of ‘one country, two systems’ and Hong Kong’s healthcare professional system to develop Hong Kong into an international health and medical innovation hub to expedite patients’ access to advanced diagnostic and treatment services, and promote the development of the biomedicine research and development industry, while actively integrating into the national development by showing support for fostering new quality productive forces in biomedical technology, as set out in the aforesaid resolution and the development plan.”

    During the meeting, various medical collaboration initiatives in the GBA such as expanding cross-boundary health record sharing, promoting specialist training in the bay area and extending the Elderly Health Care Voucher GBA Pilot Scheme were also discussed.

    Prof Lo added that the Health Bureau will implement various co-operation initiatives with the Mainland as put forward in the Policy Address and deepen medical and healthcare collaboration with the Mainland, in particular the GBA Mainland cities.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: NPS Salutes Outgoing Dean of Students, SEAL “Bull Frog” Takes Over

    Source: United States Navy

    Martinsen, a Fulbright scholar and NPS Department of Applied Mathematics associate professor, was asked to step-in as Dean of Students over the last year to fill a critical gap. He will now return to teaching, in addition to his new duties as Associate Provost for Academic Affairs.

    NPS President retired Vice Adm. Ann Rondeau commended Martinsen for ably leading his team and the NPS student body through four graduations, incoming classes and the implementation of an initiative to vastly increase the number of newly commissioned ensigns coming directly from the U.S. Naval Academy and other commissioning programs.

    “Our students are the mission at NPS, and Capt. Martinsen has always put their success at the forefront of his work,” said Rondeau. “He did not hesitate to say yes when asked to take the Dean of Students role, and like the true leader he is, Martinsen set the bar even higher for his team, and inspired us all by his personal commitment to the institution.”

    For his accomplishments and exceptionally meritorious performance, Rondeau presented Martinsen with the Legion of Merit. He then spoke to the audience, offering his gratitude for the unique opportunity to lead NPS students, especially noting the hard work of his student services team who process graduating and incoming resident students, which in June alone totaled more than 800.

    “Student Services is not just an outstanding team, it’s a family into which I was welcomed and am proud to have been a part of during my time as Dean of Students,” Martinsen remarked. “For me, it is hard to put into words just how rewarding it is to see our warrior scholar students grow academically. If ever there was a doubt as to how this country will respond to the myriad of challenges we currently face, one need only look to the skill, strength, and motivation of these young leaders to know that we will be alright.”

    Rondeau also commented on NPS’ extraordinary good fortune to have a leader of Skalski’s caliber as incoming Dean of Students.  “He is a warrior’s leader,” Rondeau said, noting Skalski’s career as a Navy SEAL who comes to NPS directly from Commander, Task Force 66, part of U.S. Naval Forces Europe and Africa / U.S. Sixth Fleet.

    Skalski’s achievements as a Navy SEAL and commander through multiple conflicts over his near 40-year career bring a distinct operational focus to his tenure as NPS Dean of Students. In addition, Skalski’s time in service makes him the 19th “Bull Frog” in the SEAL community, a moniker given to their to longest serving active-duty member, and is a measure of leadership that makes him ideally suited to command the student military element at NPS.

    Martinsen and Skalski then read their orders. As is the time-honored tradition for a change of command, Martinsen turned to Skalski and said, “I am ready to be relieved,” to which Skalski then replied, “I relieve you.” He then took to the podium to offer his thoughts to the assembled audience as NPS’ new Dean of Students.

    “The opportunity to serve here at Naval Postgraduate School is truly a gift and an opportunity,” he said. “There are many challenges ahead. While I saw technology advances in artificial intelligence, and the integration of robotics and autonomous systems change the fabric of the battlefield in real-time, the human element will always be the decisive difference. This is where our asymmetric advantage, the warfighter or in this case, the NPS graduate student, comes in.”

    “I’ve seen the power of teamwork and resilience during my career,” he continued. “I know that with the talent and dedication in this room and across the NPS campus, we can turn these challenges into opportunities.”

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Some people love to scare themselves in an already scary world − here’s the psychology of why

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Sarah Kollat, Teaching Professor of Psychology, Penn State

    A controlled scary experience can leave you exhilarated and relaxed afterward. gremlin/E+ via Getty Images

    Fall for me as a teenager meant football games, homecoming dresses – and haunted houses. My friends organized group trips to the local fairground, where barn sheds were turned into halls of horror, and masked men nipped at our ankles with (chainless) chain saws as we waited in line, anticipating deeper frights to come once we were inside.

    I’m not the only one who loves a good scare. Halloween attractions company America Haunts estimates Americans are spending upward of US$500 million annually on haunted house entrance fees simply for the privilege of being frightened. And lots of fright fans don’t limit their horror entertainment to spooky season, gorging horror movies, shows and books all year long.

    To some people, this preoccupation with horror can seem tone deaf. School shootings, child abuse, war – the list of real-life horrors is endless. Why seek manufactured fear for entertainment when the world offers real terror in such large quantities?

    As a developmental psychologist who writes dark thrillers on the side, I find the intersection of psychology and fear intriguing. To explain what drives this fascination with fear, I point to the theory that emotions evolved as a universal experience in humans because they help us survive. Creating fear in otherwise safe lives can be enjoyable – and is a way for people to practice and prepare for real-life dangers.

    Fear can feel good

    Controlled fear experiences – where you can click your remote, close the book, or walk out of the haunted house whenever you want – offer the physiological high that fear triggers, without any real risk.

    When you perceive yourself under threat, adrenaline surges in your body and the evolutionary fight-or-flight response is activated. Your heart rate increases, you breathe deeper and faster, and your blood pressure goes up. Your body is preparing to defend itself against the danger or get away as fast as possible.

    This physical reaction is crucial when facing a real threat. When experiencing controlled fear – like jump scares in a zombie TV show – you get to enjoy this energized sensation, similar to a runner’s high, without any risks. And then, once the threat is dealt with, your body releases the neurotransmitter dopamine, which provides sensations of pleasure and relief.

    In one study, researchers found that people who visited a high-intensity haunted house as a controlled fear experience displayed less brain activity in response to stimuli and less anxiety post-exposure. This finding suggests that exposing yourself to horror films, scary stories or suspenseful video games can actually calm you afterward. The effect might also explain why my husband and I choose to relax by watching zombie shows after a busy day at work.

    Going through something frightening together – like a haunted house attraction – can be a bonding experience.
    AP Photo/John Locher

    The ties that bind

    An essential motivation for human beings is the sense of belonging to a social group. According to the surgeon general, Americans who miss those connections are caught up in an epidemic of loneliness, which leaves people at risk for mental and physical health issues.

    Going through intense fear experiences together strengthens the bonds between individuals. Good examples include veterans who served together in combat, survivors of natural disasters, and the “families” created in groups of first responders.

    I’m a volunteer firefighter, and the unique connection created through sharing intense threats, such as entering a burning building together, manifests in deep emotional bonds with my colleagues. After a significant fire call, we often note the improved morale and camaraderie of the firehouse. I feel a flood of positive emotions anytime I think of my firefighting partners, even when the events occurred months or years ago.

    Controlled fear experiences artificially create similar opportunities for bonding. Exposure to stress triggers not only the fight-or-flight response, but in many situations it also initiates what psychologists call the “tend-and-befriend” system. A perceived threat prompts humans to tend to offspring and create social-emotional bonds for protection and comfort. This system is largely regulated by the so-called “love hormone” oxytocin.

    The tend-and-befriend reaction is particularly likely when you experience stress around others with whom you have already established positive social connections. When you encounter stressors within your social network, your oxytocin levels rise to initiate social coping strategies. As a result, when you navigate a recreational fear experience like a haunted house with friends, you are setting the emotional stage to feel bonded with the people beside you.

    Sitting in the dark with friends while you watch a scary movie or navigating a haunted corn maze with a date is good for your health, in that it helps you strengthen those social connections.

    Consuming lots of horror as entertainment may make some people more resilient in real life.
    Edwin Tan/E+ via Getty Images

    An ounce of prevention = a pound of cure

    Controlled fear experiences can also be a way for you to prepare for the worst. Think of the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, when the films “Contagion” and “Outbreak” trended on streaming platforms as people around the world sheltered at home. By watching threat scenarios play out in controlled ways through media, you can learn about your fears and emotionally prepare for future threats.

    For example, researchers at Aarhus University’s Recreational Fear Lab in Denmark demonstrated in one study that people who regularly consumed horror media were more psychologically resilient during the COVID-19 pandemic than nonhorror fans. The scientists suggest that this resilience might be a result of a kind of training these fans went through – they practiced coping with the fear and anxiety provoked by their preferred form of entertainment. As a result, they were better prepared to manage the real fear triggered by the pandemic.

    When I’m not teaching, I’m an avid reader of crime fiction. I also write psychological thrillers under the pen name Sarah K. Stephens. As both a reader and writer, I notice similar themes in the books I am drawn to, all of which tie into my own deep-rooted fears: mothers who fail their children somehow, women manipulated into subservience, lots of misogynist antagonists.

    I enjoy writing and reading about my fears – and seeing the bad guys get their just desserts in the end – because it offers a way for me to control the story. Consuming these narratives lets me mentally rehearse how I would handle these kinds of circumstances if any were to manifest in my real life.

    Survive and thrive

    In the case of controlled fear experiences, scaring yourself is a pivotal technique to help you survive and adapt in a frightening world. By eliciting powerful, positive emotions, strengthening social networks and preparing you for your worst fears, you’re better able to embrace each day to its fullest.

    So the next time you’re choosing between an upbeat comedy and a creepy thriller for your movie night, pick the dark side – it’s good for your health.

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

    – ref. Some people love to scare themselves in an already scary world − here’s the psychology of why – https://theconversation.com/some-people-love-to-scare-themselves-in-an-already-scary-world-heres-the-psychology-of-why-240292

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Robot developers keep making it seem like housebots are imminent when they’re decades away

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Carl Strathearn, Research Fellow, Computing, Edinburgh Napier University

    Threepio schmeepio. Tesla

    The walking, talking, dancing Optimus robots at the recent Tesla demonstration generated huge excitement. But this turned to disappointment as it became apparent that much of what was happening was actually being controlled remotely by humans.

    As much as this might still be a fascinating glimpse of the future, it’s not the first time that robots have turned out to be a little too good to be true.

    Take Sophia, for instance, the robot created by Texas-based Hanson Robotics back in 2016. She was presented by the company as essentially an intelligent being, prompting numerous tech specialists to call this out as well beyond our capabilities at the time.

    Similarly we’ve seen carefully choreographed videos of pre-scripted action sequences like Boston Dynamics’ Atlas gymnastics, the English-made Ameca robot “waking up”, and most recently Tesla’s Optimus in the factory. Obviously these are still impressive in different ways, but they’re nowhere near the complete sentient package. Let Optimus or Atlas loose in a random home and you’d see something very different.

    A humanoid robot capable of working in our homes needs to be capable of doing many different tasks, using our tools, navigating our environments and communicating with us like a human. If you thought this was just a year or two away, you’re going to be disappointed.

    Building robots able to interact and carry out complex tasks in our homes and streets is still a huge challenge. Designing them even to do one specific task well, such as opening a door, is phenomenally difficult.

    There are so many door handles with different shapes, weights and materials, not to mention the complexity of dealing with unforeseen circumstances such as a locked door or objects blocking the way. Developers have actually now created a door-opening robot, but robots that can deal with hundreds of everyday tasks are still some way off.

    Behind the curtain

    The Tesla demonstration’s “Wizard of Oz” remote operation technique is a commonly used control method in this field, giving researchers a benchmark against which to test their real advances. Known as telemetric control, this has been around for some time, and is becoming more advanced.

    One of the authors of this article, Carl Strathearn, was at a conference in Japan earlier this year, where a keynote speaker from one of the top robotics labs demonstrated an advanced telemetrics system. It allowed a single human to simultaneously operate many humanoid robots semi-autonomously, using pre-scripted movements, conversation prompts and computerised speech.

    Clearly, this is very useful technology. Telemetric systems are used to control robots working in dangerous environments, disability healthcare and even in outer space. But the reason why a human is still at the helm is because even the most advanced humanoid robots, such as Atlas, are not yet reliable enough to operate completely independently in the real world.

    Another major problem is what we can call social AI. Leading generative AI programs such as DeepMind’s Gemini and OpenAI’s GPT-4 Vision may be a foundation for creative autonomous AI systems for humanoid robots in the future. But we should not be misled into believing that such models mean that a robot is now capable of functioning well in the real world.

    Interpreting information and problem solving like a human requires much more than just recognising words, classifying objects and generating speech. It requires a deeper contextual understanding of people, objects and environments – in other words, common sense.

    To explore what is currently possible, we recently completed a research project called Common Sense Enhanced Language and Vision (CiViL). We equipped a robot called Euclid with commonsense knowledge as part of a generative AI vision and language system to assist people in preparing recipes. To do this, we had to create commonsense knowledge databases using real-world problem-solving examples enacted by students.

    Euclid could explain complicated steps in recipes, give suggestions when things went wrong, and even point people to locations in the kitchen where utensils and tools might typically be found. Yet there were still issues, such as what to do if someone has a bad allergic reaction while cooking. The problem is that it’s almost impossible to handle every possible scenario, yet that’s what true common sense entails.

    This fundamental aspect of AI has got somewhat lost in humanoid robots over the years. Generated speech, realistic facial expressions, telemetric controls, even the ability to play games such as “rock paper scissors” are all impressive. But the novelty soon wears off if the robots are not actually capable of doing anything useful on their own.

    This isn’t to say that significant progress isn’t being made toward autonomous humanoid robots. There’s impressive work going on into robotic nervous systems to give robots more senses for learning, for instance. It’s just not usually given the same amount of press attention as the big unveilings.

    The data deficit

    Another key challenge is the lack of real-world data to train AI systems, since online data doesn’t always accurately represent the real-world conditions necessary for training our robots well enough. We have yet to find an effective way of collecting this real-world data in large enough quantities to get good results. However, this may change soon if we can access it from technologies such as Alexa and Meta Ray-Bans.

    Nonetheless, the reality is that we’re still perhaps decades away from developing multimodal humanoid robots with advanced social AI that are capable of helping around the house. Maybe in the meantime we’ll be offered robots controlled remotely from a command centre. Will we want them, though?

    In the meantime, it’s also more important that we focus our efforts on creating robots for roles that can support people who urgently need help now. Examples would include healthcare, where there are long waiting lists and understaffed hospitals; and education, to offer a way for overanxious or severely ill children to participate in classrooms remotely. We also need better transparency, legislation and publicly available testing, so that everyone can tell fact from fiction and help build public trust for when the robots eventually do arrive.

    Dimitra Gkatzia receives funding from EPSRC.

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

    – ref. Robot developers keep making it seem like housebots are imminent when they’re decades away – https://theconversation.com/robot-developers-keep-making-it-seem-like-housebots-are-imminent-when-theyre-decades-away-241638

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Vaccinating care home residents reduced deaths, but the effect was small – new study

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By David Paton, Chair of Industrial Economics, Nottingham University Business School, University of Nottingham

    Vaccinating older people probably did avert some deaths in 2021, but the effects were small. And even those small effects on mortality seem to have dissipated during the booster programme. That’s the conclusion of our new study, published in the European Economic Review.

    COVID-related deaths decreased significantly in most of Europe and the US from the middle of 2021. Although this reduction coincided with the rollout of COVID vaccines, it has proved surprisingly difficult to identify the extent to which vaccination contributed to the drop in deaths.

    Randomised controlled trials (the gold standard for testing new treatments) suggest COVID vaccination can provide significant protection against serious illness and death relative to unvaccinated people who have not previously been infected with COVID. But there are reasons the effect of vaccination on mortality may be lower when viewed outside of trials.

    Early in the programme, there were hopes that vaccination would also prove highly effective in preventing the spread of COVID but it has since become clear that vaccination provides only limited and short-term protection against infection and transmission.

    It is also well established that a previous infection provides protection both against reinfection and against serious illness and death in the event of reinfection that is at least as effective as vaccination. Having a previous infection significantly reduces the likelihood of being vaccinated meaning the vaccinated population will include a relatively high proportion of people without protection from prior infection. So even if vaccination provides protection at an individual level, we may still observe population-level mortality rates that are similar for vaccinated and unvaccinated groups.

    The effectiveness of vaccination programmes may also be limited by people’s behaviour. For example, there is evidence that vaccinated people who get infected are more likely to have mild symptoms and this may cause them to take fewer precautions than others against spreading infection. As a result, vaccination may sometimes be associated with more rather than less transmission.

    Taken together, even if vaccination reduces the risk on an individual basis, it does not necessarily follow that it will reduce deaths at a population level. Existing research reflects this ambiguity with some research finding very significant effects of vaccination on death while other findings conclude there was little or no effect at all.

    Our new study attempts to improve our knowledge about the effect of COVID vaccination programmes by estimating the effect of vaccination take up on deaths in care homes. This is a particularly important group to examine. Given that the vast majority of COVID-related deaths occur in the elderly, any effect on deaths is highly likely to be seen in care homes.

    Machine learning used to analyse the data

    We examined deaths from COVID in care homes across nearly 150 local authorities in England from the start of the vaccine rollout in December 2020 until after the second booster dose in summer 2022. We tested whether higher rates of vaccination of staff and elderly residents led to fewer deaths both in total and from COVID.

    One feature of our research is the use of machine learning (a type of artificial intelligence) to isolate the effect of vaccination from other factors that may also have affected mortality including levels of prior infection as well as demographic, economic and health differences among local authorities.

    Machine learning is particularly adept at separating out the effects of a high number of potential explanatory variables, providing much better evidence of when associations represent true causal relationships. In contrast to some other research, we also use a measure of vaccination that takes account of the fact that effectiveness wanes over time.

    We found that higher vaccination rates of residents (but not of staff) did indeed lead to fewer deaths, but the effect was relatively small. For example, an increase in the resident vaccination take-up rate of 10% in a local authority caused, on average, a reduction of 1% in the total care home mortality rate. That is equivalent to about 22 fewer deaths per week nationwide.

    Of course, any reduction in deaths is welcome. But vaccination does not appear to be the key factor in reducing care home deaths from COVID. We also found that the reduction in deaths was restricted to the initial vaccination rollout.

    From September 2021, when the booster vaccination programme started in England, higher vaccination rates of elderly residents do not seem to have led to any reduction in deaths. Based on these results, vaccination is unlikely to have been responsible for the sustained fall in COVID-related deaths.

    Why then did Europe and the US experience large reductions in COVID deaths since 2021, even during times when infection rates have soared?

    There are two explanations. The first is the growth of variants such as omicron that, although highly infectious, are less deadly than variants responsible for the early waves.

    Second, is the rise in the cumulative number of people who gained protection from having had previous infections.

    These explanations are consistent with the experience of places such as Hong Kong, New Zealand and Taiwan. All saw relatively low COVID infections and deaths in 2020, meaning only limited levels of natural immunity had been built up. All then experienced high mortality rates during 2022, well after most people in those places had been vaccinated.

    For example, the seven-day average mortality rate in Hong Kong reached 40 deaths per million in March 2022, a rate far above the highest peak seen in the US during the whole pandemic despite cumulative vaccination rates at that time being similar.

    Even though vaccination probably reduced care home deaths by a small amount in the early rollout period, there is little evidence that the booster programme had any significant effect on COVID-related deaths.

    David Paton is a member of HART (Health Advisory and Recovery Team).

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

    – ref. Vaccinating care home residents reduced deaths, but the effect was small – new study – https://theconversation.com/vaccinating-care-home-residents-reduced-deaths-but-the-effect-was-small-new-study-241300

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: A brief history of the muses: the Greek goddesses who provided divine inspiration for ancient poets

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Alison Habens, Head of Creative Writing, University of Portsmouth

    The muses in The Parnassus, a fresco by Raphael (1511). Vatican Museums, CC BY-SA

    In the beginning, there was just one, unnamed, muse. The blind bard Homer (a poet born around around 850BC) invoked her with the words “Sing, daughter of Zeus” in the first lines of his epic poem, the Odyssey.

    Then there were said to be three: Melete (practice), Mneme (memory) and Aoede (song), perhaps embodying the basic creative process of early humanity. Eventually, nine muses were identified, covering every branch of the arts, in the ancient Greek poet Hesiod’s introduction to Theogony, his epic poem about mythical stories and characters (circa 730–700BC). Hesiod, formerly an illiterate shepherd, claimed that he was inspired to write the poem when a beautiful goddess whispered the story in his ear.

    There were muses specifically for comedy, tragedy and even erotica. The oldest was Calliope, mother of the legendary musician Orpheus. Euterpe was the muse of music. Urania guided the scientists. Terpsichore taught dance.

    The muses promised fame and fortune to artists who followed them, but are rarely mentioned by name in the prologues and prefaces of artworks today.

    A timeline of the muses

    Originally characterised as singing and dancing goddesses guarding a sacred spring, evidence for the muses is found in writing by some of the earliest known authors.

    Hesiod and the Muse by Gustave Moreau (1891).
    Musée d’Orsay

    Yet, the muses existed long before reading and writing. It was only later that they were conscripted as the mascots of writers, with some ancient mosaics showing pens and parchment superimposed on their original images. Following their assimilation from the oral tradition into cheerleaders of literacy, the muses are seen waving pens and quills, scrolls and manuscripts in ancient artworks.

    Written storytelling about the muses started in the matriarchal period of prehistory, shifting to patriarchy in approximately 3,000BC, in Ovid’s story of the god Apollo fashioning himself the first laurel wreath. This crown of leaves, which supposedly signified his genius, is seen in the myth of Daphne, who turned into a laurel tree to escape Apollo’s unwanted advances.

    Written by Ovid in Metamorphoses, this picturesque tale may have been a metaphor for the switch from female to male authority. Legend has it that Apollo prevented his muse priestess from brewing, imbibing or smoking laurel leaves, which have a mild narcotic property.

    It wasn’t just fanciful poets in the muse’s congregation – philosophers kept the faith too. In approximately 370BC, Socrates classed “possession” by the muses as a form of divine madness like drunkenness, eroticism or dreaming: “He who, having no touch of the muses’ madness in his soul, thinks that he will get into the temple by the help of art – he, I say, and his poetry are not admitted.”

    Clio, Euterpe and Thalia, by Eustache Le Sueur (1652–1655).
    Louvre Museum

    English poet and soldier Robert Graves (1895-1985) agreed, writing in 1948 that his:

    ‘Inspiration’ was the breathing-in by the poet of fumes from an intoxicating cauldron, the Awen of the cauldron of Cerridwen, containing probably a mash of barley, acorns, honey, bull’s blood and such sacred herbs as ivy, hellebore and laurel as at Delphi.

    Changing times

    These original practices of using drink or drugs to inspire art are still in use around the world today. The muses may hold a pen in one hand and a smoke, or steaming mug, in the other – herbal remedies continue to be efficacious for writer’s block.

    In the Elizabethan period, when a poet’s relationship with the muses was perceived as directly proportionate to their success in romance, loving attention was paid to their invocation in rhythm and rhyme. But post-Enlightenment, it was no longer considered right for writers to invoke a supernatural mentor for literary endeavours. Modern men were influenced by reason and rationality, rather than a deity. Then it was more likely that a dead bard or scene from nature was deemed an appropriate source of inspiration.

    The nine muses on a Roman sarcophagus (second century AD).
    Louvre Museum, CC BY-SA

    Though writing remained a ritualistic practice, and its mechanisms sometimes mystical, the desk no longer doubled as an altar at which the author worshipped.

    Yet writers still often claim “the muse is with me” at moments when the words flow magically. Her voice can be heard in the modern Interval with Erato by Scott Cairns (2015), which name checks the ancient overseer of love poetry:

    That’s what I like best about you, Erato sighed in bed, that’s why you’ve become one of my favourites and why you will always be so.

    For the most part, the muses are missed off the agenda by both the microscope-gazers and the navel-gazers, these days. However, Plato did insist in his dialogue Phaedrus (370BC) that most people are eu amousoi (εὖ ἄμουσοι) an ancient Greek expression that means “happily without the muses”.

    Contemporary theories of creativity do not often mention divine inspiration. We no longer like the idea that the best stories are given to a few fated writers by God, that great plots and characters are bestowed on favoured authors by goddesses. But the answer to that common question all writers are asked – “where do you get your ideas from?” – still seems more mystic, less mathematic and as much supernatural as subconscious.


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

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

    – ref. A brief history of the muses: the Greek goddesses who provided divine inspiration for ancient poets – https://theconversation.com/a-brief-history-of-the-muses-the-greek-goddesses-who-provided-divine-inspiration-for-ancient-poets-239330

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Statement by the Prime Minister on Persons Day

    Source: Government of Canada – Prime Minister

    The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on Persons Day:

    “Today, we celebrate Persons Day, an important milestone for women’s rights and participation in Canadian political life. On October 18, 1929, Canada’s highest court of appeal recognized women as ‘persons’ and granted them the right to be appointed to the Senate.

    “The Famous Five – Emily Murphy, Nellie McClung, Irene Parlby, Louise McKinney, and Henrietta Muir Edwards – won a hard-fought, two-year-long battle in the landmark Persons Case. While their victory did not benefit all women and girls in Canada equally, it helped change the course of history and laid the foundations for a fairer Canada.

    “Nearly a century after the Famous Five’s victory, Canada continues to eliminate barriers that still exist for women. We introduced $10-a-day child care to give every child the best possible start in life while helping parents, especially moms, build their careers. Our work making contraception medications and devices free will give women more affordable choices to make decisions about their bodies, their health, and their future. We are also accelerating our efforts through the Federal Pathway to address the national crisis of missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people. And through the National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence, we continue to address the root causes of gender-based violence and strengthen supports for victims, survivors, and their families. This is all part of our work to make sure that no woman in Canada faces barriers to what she can achieve.

    “As we celebrate Persons Day and Women’s History Month, I encourage all Canadians to learn more about the Famous Five and their important contributions to women’s rights and equality.”

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI: Prospect Capital Corporation Provides First Lien Senior Secured Term and Convertible Loans to Support the Acquisition of Druid City Infusion by Inlet Road Capital Management

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, Oct. 18, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Prospect Capital Corporation (NASDAQ: PSEC) (“Prospect”) has provided first lien senior secured term and convertible loans to support the acquisition of Druid City Infusion, LLC (“Druid City”) by investment funds managed by Inlet Road Capital Management, LLC (“Inlet Road”) in partnership with Druid City’s founders and leadership team.

    Druid City is a leading ownership group within the Vital Care Infusion Services (“Vital Care”) franchise system, with Druid City operating nine territories across the South and Mountain West regions of the United States.  Vital Care is dedicated to providing high-quality, safe, convenient, and cost-effective infusion therapy services for both chronic and acute patients across its extensive national network. With over 160 infusion pharmacy locations in 35 states, Vital Care is a national home infusion platform.

    “Druid City is proud of its growth and the outstanding team we have built over the last 10 years,” said Druid City CEO and co-founder Ryan McFerrin. “Our unwavering commitment to patient care and delivering high level service to our referral partners will be enhanced as we begin this new chapter with Prospect and Inlet Road.”

    “We chose to team up with Prospect because of Prospect’s ability to create a comprehensive financing solution to meet the unique needs of our transaction and the business,” said Brian M. Harrison, Partner at Inlet Road. “Prospect’s collaborative approach and industry expertise make Prospect an ideal group for supporting Druid City’s expanding opportunities within the home infusion sector.”

    “The Prospect team was the right fit for our transaction, providing our founder partners with complementary industry experience and capital to support Druid City’s growth both organically and through the acquisition of new territories and possibly other franchisees,” said Robert L. Jenkins, Partner at Inlet Road.

    “Prospect is pleased to complete this important transaction with Inlet Road,” said Neil Zieses, Vice President at Prospect. “We look forward to continued strong performance at Druid City, a company with a compelling value proposition for delivering pharmacy services, and bedside and clinic-based infusion services.”

    About Prospect Capital Corporation

    Prospect is a business development company lending to and investing in private businesses. Prospect’s investment objective is to generate both current income and long-term capital appreciation through debt and equity investments.

    Prospect has elected to be treated as a business development company under the Investment Company Act of 1940. We have elected to be treated as a regulated investment company under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986.

    Caution Concerning Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, whose safe harbor for forward-looking statements does not apply to business development companies. Any such statements, other than statements of historical fact, are highly likely to be affected by other unknowable future events and conditions, including elements of the future that are or are not under our control, and that we may or may not have considered; accordingly, such statements cannot be guarantees or assurances of any aspect of future performance. Actual developments and results are highly likely to vary materially from any forward-looking statements. Such statements speak only as of the time when made, and we undertake no obligation to update any such statement now or in the future.

    For further information, contact:
    Grier Eliasek, President and Chief Operating Officer
    grier@prospectcap.com
    Telephone (212) 448-0702

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Sustain SoCal to Host 15th Annual Energy Event (‘AE15’) on October 24

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEWPORT BEACH, Calif., Oct. 18, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — via InvestorWire — Sustain Southern California (“Sustain SoCal”), proudly announces today that it will host the 15th Annual Energy Event on Thursday, October 24, 2024. The acclaimed event will be held in person at The Cove at UCI Beall Applied Innovation 5270 California Avenue, Irvine, CA, United States.

    With over a decade-and-a-half of experience, Sustain SoCal is renowned for accelerating cleantech economic growth and sustainability initiatives through innovation, collaboration and education throughout Southern California and the surrounding region. The upcoming event is the latest in the highly-regarded Annual Energy series which focuses on exploring the status of decarbonization solutions across major pillars of the economy including industrial, commercial and governmental sectors.

    Drawing on their considerable experience and expertise, invited speakers, senior decision makers and industry veterans will share their unique perspectives on several pressing concerns such as engineering technology, incentive structures, policy tools, and the legislative ecosystem’s role in mainstreaming the decarbonization of energy supplies.  

    Speakers at Sustain SoCal events represent a cross-section of real world initiatives from local government and other public agencies, utilities, technology companies, large corporate adopters, hospitals, hotels, schools, seasoned investors, and non-profit agencies.

    To address the region’s sustainability goals, and highlight the challenges of the evolving energy-scape, discussions will encompass a wide spectrum of topics including electrification, hydrogen, Inflation Reduction Act, renewables, built environment, agriculture, grant incentives, investor trends, ESG and innovation policy. During these galvanizing conversations, attendees will experience world-class educational content and build a deeper understanding of pragmatic solutions that support sustainable decarbonization.

    While showcasing the latest advancements from local energy innovators, the event series has always focused on being a launchpad for exciting new partnerships and high-powered networking to drive sustainable economic development and progress towards wider sustainability goals.

    At the Innovation Showcase, senior company officials and pioneering developers will interact directly with attendees to explore and discuss the latest technology developments and breakthroughs.

    Scott Kitcher, President, and CEO of Sustain SoCal, said, “Global energy networks are central to modern civilization and our economic model. However, rigorous scientific research and advanced environmental surveys have conclusively shown that the energy-scape is precariously positioned due to the weight of our legacy systems. The combination of lasting environmental damage, accelerating climate change effects, power shortages and frequent disruptions, changing demographic profiles, and geopolitical challenges that impact economic prospects via growth trajectories and inflation, has necessitated a rapid transition in humanity’s relationship with energy. The most urgent concern is to accelerate decarbonization to stave off the potential for cataclysmic effects in the decades to come. We, at Sustain SoCal, are proud to have supported local innovators, energy thinkers and policy pioneers in their quest to usher in an age of responsible energy systems, and in building a new and robust ecosystem in Southern California and beyond. Our October conference is a must-attend event for anyone interested in the lasting, sustainable prosperity of our communities, and shall also offer an eye-opening experience into state-of-the-art technologies and revolutionary policy initiatives.”   

    BioLargo, Inc., and Caltrol, Inc., are Platinum Sponsors for this event.

    The Orange County Power Authority (OCPA) is a Gold Sponsor.

    For registration details, or for information on speaking and sponsorship opportunities, visit:
    https://sustainsocal.org/event/15th-annual-energy-event/

    About Sustain SoCal:
    Sustain SoCal, a non-profit organization, accelerates sustainability and economic growth through innovation, collaboration, and education in Southern California. The organization has a ten-year history in exploring and implementing pragmatic, real-world solutions to the challenges created by growth, change and inefficiency. It conducts conferences, workshops and networking events that lead to initiatives that positively impact our region’s economic progress and sustainability. For more information, please visit http://www.sustainsocal.org.

    About IBN

    IBN is a cutting-edge communications and digital engagement platform providing tailored Platform Solutions for select private and public companies. Over the course of 18+ years, IBN has introduced over 65+ investor facing brands to the investment public and amassed a collective audience of millions of social media followers. These distinctive investor brands amplify recognition and reach as well as help fulfill the unique needs of our rapidly growing and diverse base of client-partners. IBN will continue to expand our branded network of influential properties as well as leverage the energy and experience of our team of professionals to best serve our clients.

    IBN’s Platform Solutions provide access to: (1) our Dynamic Brand Portfolio (DBP) through 65+ investor facing brands; (2) article and editorial syndication to 5,000+ news outlets; (3) full-scale distribution to a growing social media audience; (4) a network of wire solutions via InvestorWire to effectively reach target markets and demographics; (5) Press Release Enhancement to ensure accuracy and impact; (6) a full array of corporate communications solutions; and (7) total news coverage solutions.

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    Please see full terms of use and disclaimers on the InvestorBrandNetwork website applicable to all content provided by IBN, wherever published or re-published: http://IBN.fm/Disclaimer.

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    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Matchain Hits Major Milestone: Over 9 Million Wallets And Counting

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LISBON, Portugal, Oct. 18, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Matchain, a leading AI blockchain platform, is excited to share the milestones achieved since its mainnet launch on August 28th, recapping all the important metrics of the ecosystem. The platform has reached significant milestones in user adoption, transaction volume, and strategic partnerships, solidifying its position as a frontrunner in the AI & Decentralized Identity space.

    Explosive Growth in User Base and Transactions

    Unlike traditional platforms where data is harvested and monetized without consent, Matchain’s vision is that user data should only be shared with explicit permission. This data, when shared, can be leveraged for training AI models, with users receiving a share of the revenue generated. By enabling individuals to decide how their data is used, Matchain not only fosters greater transparency but also gives users an active role in the growing AI economy, ensuring they benefit from the value of their own contributions.

    To achieve this goal, Matchain has been focused on onboarding Web2 users into the Web3 space, providing a smooth transition to decentralized platforms. At the core of the strategy is leveraging Telegram’s massive web2 reach as a familiar gateway, allowing millions to explore blockchain technology without friction.

    Matchain’s strategy lies in driving real, authentic interactions within its ecosystem. All initiatives were focused on encouraging users to explore and experience the dApps firsthand, of which, LoL, the first AI memecoin on Matchain, quickly gained momentum and sparked engagement within the community.

    The strong and enthusiastic response not only highlighted the community’s support but also served as a powerful driver for increasing Matchain’s visibility and accelerating its growth.

    A Recap of the most important numbers:

    Successful Transition from Testnet to Mainnet

    Matchain’s journey to its current success began with a carefully planned transition from testnet to mainnet. While the testnet was used to validate our core offering and vision, mainnet opened up the doors for the public to join and build on Match.

    How’s it going so far:

    Onchain Activity: The testnet phase lasted a year and saw over 180 million transactions processed, demonstrating the network’s capability to handle high volumes, while the mainnet saw a total of 32 million transactions within less than a month of being launched.

    Community Engagement: With a total user outreach of over 12 million across all channels, Matchain’s mini-app has attracted 3 million+ daily active users, creating strong momentum. This success is amplified by hyper-successful Megadrop campaigns in collaboration with exchange partners, fueled by the enthusiastic support of the Matchain community.

    Ecosystem Growth: We’ve built a network of over 50+ strategic partners across sectors like DEXs, DeFi platforms, games, and AI, creating a solid foundation for seamless building on Matchain. MatchID partners are integrating our identity solution to drive real-world use, while infrastructure partners ensure builders can engage with Matchain easily and securely. With a focus on the future, we’ve also aligned with AI leaders across industries to empower individual sovereignty.

    Get Involved With Matchain

    Matchain’s growth has taken off thanks to strategic partnerships and community-driven efforts led by our Business Development team. Here are some of the key initiatives that are still going strong—and there’s plenty of room for you to jump in and be part of the journey.

    Megadrop Program: A multi-phase reward program designed to incentivize user participation and ecosystem growth in collaboration with industry leaders like OKX, Bitget, and Bybit, expanding Matchain’s integration on leading web3 platforms.

    Mini-App Quests: Over 7 million users engaged through Matchain’s mini-app games, earning Match Points in real time.

    Match Hub: If you share the same vision as Matchain, let’s build something great together! Our BD team’s got your back—offering technical and marketing support to help grow your projects!

    Looking Ahead

    Matchain is set to continue to focus on strengthening its infrastructure, expanding partnerships, and developing AI and Decentralized Identity (DID) solutions to meet the evolving demands of the blockchain community.

    With its rapid momentum, Matchain is poised for significant growth and is on track to expand its user base to over 40 million users in the coming months.

    But that’s just the beginning—stay on the lookout for Matchain. With so much happening behind the scenes, you won’t want to miss out. A lot of exciting updates and insights will be shared at ETH Sofia, where our CEO, Petrix, will join Par from Paris Saint-Germain F.C. (PSG) for a fireside chat.

    Keep an ear for subtle clues about what’s next for Matchain.

    About Matchain
    Matchain is a blockchain platform that offers advanced AI-driven decentralized identity solutions. It ensures privacy, security, and control over personal data, allowing users to own and monetize their digital information within a secure ecosystem.

    For more details, visit Matchain’s website or contact Anastasia Drinevskaya, Chief Marketing Officer, for inquiries and updates.

    Contact:
    Anastasia Drinevskaya
    ana@matchain.org

    Disclaimer: This content is provided by Matchain. The statements, views and opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the content provider. The information provided in this press release is not a solicitation for investment, nor is it intended as investment advice, financial advice, or trading advice. It is strongly recommended you practice due diligence, including consultation with a professional financial advisor, before investing in or trading cryptocurrency and securities. Please conduct your own research and invest at your own risk.

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:
    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/210903ee-4dc4-43fb-a29c-f0863f1b42b3
    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/e8fbba70-bbe2-4487-9ff3-8f78cec5bebd

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Around the Air Force: Overseas Absentee Ballots, TRICARE Changes for 2025, BLUE: An Agile Approach

    Source: United States Air Force

    In this week’s look around the Air Force, overseas service members can send absentee ballots free, new TRICARE contracts impact referrals and specialty care, and the newest issue of BLUE on the Airman Magazine website explores the shift to ACE.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Government of Canada launches call for proposals in support of Black mental health

    Source: Government of Canada News

    News release

    October 18, 2024 | Ottawa, ON | Public Health Agency of Canada

    Black communities in Canada continue to face significant barriers to accessing mental health services and supports, including the cost of care, a history of negative experiences related to bias, and overall lack of culturally representative and responsive mental health professionals.

    Today, the Honourable Ya’ara Saks, Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of Health, is launching an open call for proposals to allocate $1M under the Mental Health of Black Canadians Fund. Community-based organizations can apply for up to $100,000 to support projects that seek to build organizations’ capacity to develop and deliver programs that promote the mental health of Black people in Canada. The deadline to submit a proposal is November 15, 2024.

    To be eligible to receive funding, projects must be Black-led, benefit and be delivered to Black communities in Canada. The following activities are eligible for funding:

    • Building and strengthening community-based engagement, networks, collaborations and partnerships;
    • Gathering and analyzing data and information from diverse sources;
    • Consolidating knowledge of what works through knowledge synthesis, mobilization of evidence and/or community resources and assets, and analysis of relevant data;
    • Assessing past and present mental health promotion programs for lessons learned and promising practices; and
    • Developing the design and/or methodology for novel, culturally focused mental health programs.

    This open call for proposals is part of the $4M committed in Budget 2024 for the Promoting Health Equity: Mental Health of Black of Canadians Fund. This funding is designed to support community-based, culturally focused projects that aim to increase health equity and address the underlying determinants of mental health, including anti-Black racism.

    For more information on eligibility for this open call and how to apply, visit the website.

    Quotes

    “When people find the courage to ask for help, they deserve to be met by mental health service providers who see them, and can offer resources that reflect their reality. The Mental Health of Black Canadians Fund is helping make this happen by investing in Black-led community-based organizations that are dedicated to improving the mental health of their community members and the factors that influence it, such as anti-Black racism. Working alongside Black community leaders and organizations is key to paving the way to better health outcomes .”

    The Honourable Ya’ara Saks
    Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of Health 

    Quick facts

    • Between 2018 and 2024, the Mental Health of Black Canadians Fund has provided support for 32 projects, including through the Supporting the Health of Those Most Affected by the COVID-19 Pandemic Fund.  

    • People who experience discrimination due to racism, socio-economic status and/or social exclusion face more difficulties than others in accessing mental health care and supports.

    • The Inequalities in mental health, well-being and wellness in Canada report examines inequalities in mental health. The first of its kind, the report examines how a combination of social, economic and environmental factors can influence the health of individuals.

    • The Distress Line Equity Fund supports projects that address gaps related to equity, diversity and inclusion within Canada’s distress line sector. Distress lines are a vital part of Canada’s public health approach to suicide prevention, and this fund is helping will help ensure distress lines and centres are able to respond to the needs and experiences of everyone who calls.

    • The 9-8-8: Suicide Crisis Helpline is available across Canada for anyone thinking about suicide or self-harm, grieving someone who died by suicide, or worried about someone else who may be thinking about suicide. Canadians can call or text 9-8-8 to access 24/7, bilingual, trauma-informed, and culturally appropriate suicide prevention support. 

    • In 2018, Canada endorsed the United Nations International Decade for People of African Descent, which runs from 2015 to 2024. On February 7, 2024, the Prime Minister announced a domestic extension, until 2028, of the federal government’s efforts within these frameworks, to promote equity, empower Black Canadians, and strengthen their leadership in business, social justice and community. Last April, Canada announced its commitment to support the call for a second international decade.

    Associated links

    Contacts

    Yuval Daniel
    Director of Communications
    Office of the Honourable Yaara Saks
    Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of Health
    819-360-6927

    Media Relations
    Public Health Agency of Canada
    613-957-2983 
    media@hc-sc.gc.ca

    Public Inquiries:

    613-957-2991
    1-866-225-0709

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Government of Canada invests in supply chain projects in the province of Quebec to help make life cost less

    Source: Government of Canada News

    News release

    October 18, 2024            Sorel-Tracy, Québec            Transport Canada

    The Government of Canada is investing in strategic infrastructure projects to strengthen supply chains and make life cost less.

    Today, the President of the Treasury Board and Minister of Transport, the Honourable Anita Anand, announced up to $38 million for seven projects under the National Trade Corridors Fund. These investments will reduce capacity constraints and bottlenecks, making it easier for goods to move quickly.

    By enhancing infrastructure and improving efficiency, these investments will also support economic growth in the province of Quebec and in the regions along the St. Lawrence River. Projects include:

    • The Montreal Port Authority will increase export capacity for Canadian containerized grains
    • QSL International Ltée will develop an industrial-port zone in the cities of Sorel-Tracy and Saint-Joseph-de-Sorel thereby increasing trade volumes
    • The Quebec Port Authority is undertaking several key projects, including:
      • Expanding the terminal storage space at Pier 103
      • Relocating essential infrastructure for the electrical supply of the L’Anse au Foulon sector (Pier 104 and 105)
      • Enhancing the capacity and efficiency of the estuary rail yard
      • Finalizing an agreement for the development of a new dry bulk and cargo terminal behind pier 108 in the Anse au Foulon sector
    • The Saguenay Port Authority will establish a new storage area in the southwest sector of the Terminal

    The Government makes investments to strengthen the country’s supply chains, promote economic growth, and enhance the opportunities for our businesses to expand into global markets, which helps make life cost less for Canadians.

    Quotes

    “By enhancing connectivity and reducing bottlenecks in Quebec and the areas along the St. Lawrence River, consumers, workers, and small businesses will benefit from efficient and reliable supply chains. This, in turn, supports economic growth and helps make life cost less for Canadians and Quebecers.”

    The Honourable Anita Anand
    President of the Treasury Board and Minister of Transport

    “This conversion of a former industrial site into a port terminal is a concrete example of sustainable development that we are proud of. The financial support from the federal government is a key milestone in the completion of this project in partnership with the City of Sorel-Tracy. This new infrastructure will allow us to better serve local farmers and businesses while minimizing environmental impact thanks to innovative floating dock technology.”

    Robert Bellisle
    President and CEO of QSL

    Quick facts

    • An efficient and reliable transportation network is key to Canada’s economic growth. The Government of Canada, through the National Trade Corridors Fund, is making investments that will support the flow of goods across Canada’s supply chains.

    • The National Trade Corridors Fund is a competitive, merit-based program designed to help infrastructure owners and users invest in the critical transportation assets that support economic activity in Canada. A total of $4.1 billion has been committed to projects since 2017.

    • Through the National Trade Corridors Fund, Transport Canada is supporting improvements to Canada’s roads, rail, air, and marine shipping routes to foster domestic and international trade.

    Related products

    Contacts

    Laurent de Casanove
    Press Secretary
    Office of the Honourable Anita Anand
    Minister of Transport, Ottawa
    laurent.decasanove@tc.gc.ca

    Media relations
    Transport Canada, Ottawa
    613-993-0055
    media@tc.gc.ca

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: National Ocean Service helps reopen Florida ports after Hurricane Milton

    Source: US National Ocean Service News

    A NOAA survey boat examines Tampa Bay’s shipping channels in the wake of Hurricane Milton Saturday, Oct. 12, 2024. (Credit: NOAA National Ocean Service/Douglas E. Jessmer)

    In the aftermath of Hurricane Milton, the National Ocean Service’s Office of Coast Survey conducted hydrographic survey operations to help reopen Port Tampa Bay and SeaPort Manatee. As part of the response effort, Coast Survey deployed teams, including a contract surveyor, in cooperation with the U.S. Coast Guard and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

    The routes of two NOAA navigation response teams, Fernandina and Gulfport, as they conducted hydrographic survey missions Friday and Saturday, Oct. 11-12, 2024, to assist with the reopening of Port Tampa Bay after Hurricane Milton. The contracted R/V Thunder surveyed the approaches to Tampa Bay. (Credit: NOAA National Ocean Service/Nicolas Alvarado)

    “We very much appreciate the close-knit relationship the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has with both the U.S. Coast Guard and the NOAA,” said Col. Brandon Bowman, Jacksonville District Commander, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. “This enables our federal agencies to quickly respond, survey and reopen vital federal channels for navigation to aid in delivering supplies and minimize impact to the shipping industry.”
    Hurricane Milton made landfall as a Category 3 storm at approximately 8:30 p.m. Wednesday, October 9, near Siesta Key, just south of Sarasota, Florida. In the aftermath of the storm, the U.S. Coast Guard prioritized surveying SeaPort Manatee, to ensure safe passage for cargo ships carrying fuel to the region. 
    “Reopening the ports is critical,” said Dr. Nicolas Alvarado, NOAA Navigation Manager for Florida, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. “The faster we can get the necessary information to our partners so the port can be reopened, the better. The navigation response teams are heroes — they work around-the-clock to get the surveying done.”

    From left, physical scientist John Gray, NOAA Corps Lt. Robert Sobelsohn, and physical science technician Michael Coughlin surveyed Tampa Bay’s shipping channels Saturday, Oct. 12, 2024, in the wake of Hurricane Milton. This NOAA survey crew and their boat were part of the agency’s collaborative response to help open Port Tampa Bay quickly for commerce and navigation. (Credit: NOAA National Ocean Service/Douglas E. Jessmer)

    When hurricanes make landfall, they often bring stronger-than-normal ocean currents that can shift navigational channels and bring debris that can threaten the ability of vessels to navigate safely along the coast and into ports. NOAA’s navigation response teams use multibeam and sidescan sonar to detect any dangers in the water and speed the reopening of ports and waterways.
    Coast Survey strategically places navigation teams around the country. While 80% of their time is spent acquiring data for routine nautical chart updates, they also maintain a state of readiness for rapid response mobilization after emergencies.

    Navigation response team Gulfport in the foreground when oil/chemical tanker Golden State enters Tampa Bay’s shipping channels in the wake of Hurricane Milton Saturday, Oct. 12, 2024. Thanks to NOAA’s hydrographic expertise, the channel was surveyed to update navigational charts and to ensure safe navigation in the hurricane’s wake. (Credit: NOAA National Ocean Service/Nicolas Alvarado)

    According to the American Association of Port Authorities “2024 Port and Maritime Industry Economic Impact Report,” U.S. ports’ contribution to the U.S. Gross Domestic Product totals almost $311 billion. Port Tampa Bay receives approximately 33 million tons of cargo a year, while more than 11 million tons of cargo move through SeaPort Manatee annually. Delays in shipping, even minor ones, can cost the economy millions each year.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Seven projects funded under the National Trade Corridors Fund in Quebec

    Source: Government of Canada News

    The National Trade Corridors Fund supports infrastructure projects in Canada. These projects include improvements at airports, ports, railways, transportation facilities, and access roads.

    The National Trade Corridors Fund supports infrastructure projects in Canada. These projects include improvements at airports, ports, railways, transportation facilities, and access roads. $4.1 billion has been committed to projects since 2017.

    The National Trade Corridors Fund supports projects that:

    • improve the flow of goods and people in Canada;
    • increase the flow of trade in and out of Canada;
    • help the transportation system to:
      • withstand the effects of climate change; and
      • better adapt to new technologies and innovation;
    • address the transportation needs of Arctic and northern communities.

    On October 18, 2024, the President of the Treasury Board and Minister of Transport, the Honourable Anita Anand, announced up to $38 million for seven projects under the National Trade Corridors Fund. By supporting our supply chains, the Government of Canada is ensuring that goods move faster and cheaper, making life cost less for Canadians.

    The funding recipients and project details are below.

    1. Montreal Port Authority – Increased export capacity for Canadian containerized grains
      The Government of Canada is investing $12,500,000 in this project to increase the Canest Terminal’s capacity by 20%, significantly improving its efficiency in handling goods. Additionally, the terminal will expand and optimize its operational space, substantially boosting container storage capacity. These upgrades will enable Canadian producers to expand exports to international markets by easing constraints and eliminating a major bottleneck in the supply chain.
    2. QSL International Ltée – Development of the port terminals in the cities of Sorel-Tracy and Saint-Joseph-de-Sorel
      The Government of Canada is investing $13,613,683 in this project to increase the fluidity of supply chains in the steel and agriculture sectors. By increasing the annual volume of import-export goods, it will support the local and regional economy while significantly reducing the number of days ships spend waiting offshore and the time required for unloading. Additionally, the initiative will mitigate environmental impacts by minimizing vessel diversions to other ports and decreasing the reliance on short-haul trucking.
    3. Quebec Port Authority – Increase the terminal storage space at Pier 103
      The Government of Canada is investing $1,198,185 in this project to reduce interruptions between storage areas, making operations more efficient. Warehouse 103 will serve as a backup storage area to help manage congestion in the logistics chain during busy times. Additionally, the project will help consolidate more goods at QSL terminals, especially in the agri-food, transportation, and construction industries.
    4. Quebec Port Authority – Relocation of a strategic and essential infrastructure for the electrical supply of the L’Anse au Foulon sector (Pier 104 and 105)
      The Government of Canada invested $1,638,500 in this project to increase storage capacity by approximately 3,000 m². This expansion has boosted the terminal’s overall storage capacity by about 15%, allowing it to handle new traffic while securing existing operations. Additionally, it reduces waiting times for ships unloading cargo at the terminal.
    5. Quebec Port Authority – Project to increase the capacity and efficiency of the estuary rail yard
      The Government of Canada invested $723,600 in this project to alleviate bottlenecks during peak times by creating additional space for railcars, expanding the Estuary Yard with about 380 linear meters of new track, reducing the time needed for snow clearing on the tracks, and improving unloading efficiency by minimizing operational delays.
    6. Quebec Port Authority – Agreement for the development of a new dry bulk and cargo terminal behind pier 108 in the Anse au Foulon sector
      The Government of Canada is investing $6,800,000 in this project to enhance intermodal connectivity through the construction of a new terminal that supports ship-to-truck and truck-to-ship logistics. It will also streamline operations by adding two new access roads to improve terminal and area accessibility. Additionally, the project will free up capacity at other deep-draft terminals, optimizing their use for handling and storage.
    7. Saguenay Port Authority – New storage area in the southwest sector of the Terminal
      The Government of Canada is investing $1,261,343 in this project to enhance trade flow by providing additional storage space in the St. Lawrence-Great Lakes maritime system, reducing long-distance transport needs. It will also support the logistics chain for bulk raw materials and promote short-distance maritime transport.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI: Decisions adopted in the Extraordinary General Meeting of Shareholders of AB Amber Grid

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    AB Amber Grid, legal entity code: 303090867. Address: Laisvės ave. 10, LT-04215 Vilnius, Lithuania.

    The following decisions were adopted in the Extraordinary General Meeting of Shareholders of AB Amber Grid on 18 October 2024:

    1. Aproval of the conclusion of the Humanitarian Aid Contract

    1.1. In accordance with the procedure laid down in Article 11(21) of the Law on Development Cooperation and Humanitarian Aid of the Republic of Lithuania, upon the recommendation of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Lithuania and the approval of the Ministry of Energy of the Republic of Lithuania, to enter into a Humanitarian Aid Contract with the Ukrainian company KHMELNYTSKOBLENERGO and to approve the following main terms of the Humanitarian Aid Contract:

    1.1.1. The subject matter of the Contract is humanitarian assistance to Ukraine’s energy sector. The humanitarian aid shall be provided through the transfer of 4 generators and 46 vehicles with a balance sheet value of EUR 60 285,53;

    1.1.2. The parties to the Contract shall be AB Amber Grid and the Ukrainian company KHMELNYTSKOBLENERGO;

    1.1.3. The purpose of humanitarian aid is the operation of energy infrastructure in wartime to meet the basic needs of people in wartime.

    1.2 To authorise the Chief Executive Officer of the Company (with the right to sub-delegate) to sign the Humanitarian Aid Contract in accordance with the material terms and conditions of the Contract as set out in Clause 1.1, and to agree the other (non-material) terms and conditions of the Contract on behalf of the Company.

    More information:
    Laura Šebekienė, Head of Communications of Amber Grid,
    +370 699 61 246, l.sebekiene@ambergrid.lt

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Council issues advice in advance of Storm Ashley

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    Council issues advice in advance of Storm Ashley

    18 October 2024

    In anticipation of Storm Ashley, which is expected to bring strong winds and could cause possible disruption on Sunday, Derry City and Strabane District Council is encouraging the public to take all the necessary precautions to keep safe.

    In the interests of health and safety, Council is closing all of its public parks, play parks and grass pitches on Sunday and advising the public to avoid using open spaces and areas where there are trees.

    The public are advised that there could also be some disruption to recycling centres across the Council area with Pennyburn, Strathfoyle and Strahan’s Rd Centres remaining closed on Sunday.

    Council outdoor sports and leisure facilities and courts will also be closed. All scheduled matches due to take place on Saturday 19th October on Council pitches will proceed, however all matches scheduled for Sunday 20th October have been cancelled due to the current weather warning and Council is in the process of contacting clubs and user groups accordingly.

    While the Cemeteries will remain open, the public are advised to take extreme care.

    All of our Leisure Centres will open as normal with the exception of Brooke Park Leisure Centre which will be closed and users advised to use facilities at Templemore Sports Complex.

    Routine inspections will be carried out on all facilities on Monday prior to them reopening.

    Householders and businesses across the Council area are encouraged to take the necessary measures to keep them and their property safe.

    The following guidance has been provided by the Met Office.

    Storm Ashley – What to expect

    Some damage to buildings, such as tiles blown from roofs, could happen
    Power cuts may occur, with the potential to affect other services, such as mobile phone coverage
    Injuries and danger to life could occur from large waves and beach material being thrown onto sea fronts, coastal roads and properties
    Some roads and bridges may close
    Road, rail, air and ferry services may be affected, with longer journey times and cancellations possible

    What steps to take.

    Prepare to protect your property and people from injury. Check for loose items outside your home and plan how you could secure them. Items include; bins, garden furniture, trampolines, tents, sheds, and fences.

    Give yourself the best chance of avoiding delays by checking road conditions if driving, or bus and train timetables, amending your travel plans if necessary.

    People cope better with power cuts when they have prepared for them in advance. It’s easy to do; consider gathering torches and batteries, a mobile phone power pack and other essential items.

    If you are on the coast, stay safe during stormy weather by being aware of large waves. Even from the shore large breaking waves can sweep you off your feet and out to sea. Take care if walking near cliffs; know your route and keep dogs on a lead. In an emergency, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.

    Be prepared for weather warnings to change quickly. When a weather warning is issued, the Met Office recommends staying up to date with the weather forecast in your area.

    Emergency Contact numbers:

    Emergency services 999 or 112

    Flooding Incident Line – 0300 2000 100

    NI Electricity Networks – 03457 643 643

    NI Gas Emergency Service – 0800 002 001

    NI Water – 03457 440 088

    Housing Executive – 03448 920 901

    Report a blocked road – 0300 200 7891

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Sunderland Festival of Light – everything you need to know

    Source: City of Sunderland

    Stunning light projections created by international visual artists, a spectacular starscape and a giant glitterball are among the dazzling lighting installations visitors can enjoy when Sunderland Festival of Light opens next Friday.

    New lighting features introduced for 2024 include ‘The Mirror’ created by Poland based award-winning visual artist Ari Dykier and ‘Hypha’ by French award-winning multidisciplinary artist Sebastien Labrunie.

    Other new features for 2024 include Starscape which will create the illusion of a brilliant white starfield, Cosmic Oasis which will see trees lit up with UV light, a laser garden and a giant glitter ball in the park’s historic Victorian bandstand which will act as the focal point of the nightly silent disco.

    The sparkling light tunnel over the bridge linking the two sections of the park also make a return after proving popular with visitors last year.

    Councillor Beth Jones, Sunderland City Council’s Cabinet Member for Communities, Culture and Tourism, said: “I’m really excited about this year’s Festival of Light.

    “It’s always a really popular event and we’ve got some fantastic new light installations this year together with favourites like selfie lane, the sparkling light tunnel over the bridge and our famous Sunderland sign.

    “I can’t wait to see the two new light projections created especially for the festival. I think they’ll be real showstoppers and I’m also really looking forward to seeing the giant glitterball in the bandstand and the Starscape star field.”

    Visitors to this year’s festival can also take advantage of 20 per cent off tickets for select performances of this year’s Jack and the Beanstalk panto at the Sunderland Empire.

    The offer will apply to price bands A – C for the following performances only: Fri 13 Dec – 7pm, Sat 14 Dec – 5.30pm, Sun 15 Dec – 5.30pm, Tue 17 Dec – 7pm & Thu 19 Dec – 7pm. To redeem the offer, make sure to opt in to hear from Sunderland City Council events when buying your tickets.

    Sunderland City Council has also partnered with Nation Radio North East as media partner for this year’s Festival of Light.

    Nation Radio North East’s Simon Grundy said: “As a partner this year, I’m so pleased Sunderland City Council are doing the Festival of Light again in Mowbray Park. It brings some brightness into our lives on these dark, cold evenings. There’s something for everyone, and seeing the bairns face’s light up, always brings a smile to my face.”

    For all those planning a visit to this year’s Festival of Light, here’s everything you need to know before you go:

    When and where is the Festival of Light?

    The Festival of Light begins on Friday 25 October and will then take place from 4.30pm – 10pm every day during half term Friday 25 October to Sunday 3 November and then 4.40 to 10pm every Thursday to Sunday until Sunday 24 November with the exception of Remembrance Sunday on 10 November. Last admission will be at 8.30pm, and the event will close at 10pm each night. This year’s event is being held in Mowbray Park, Burdon Road, SR1 1PP in Sunderland city centre.  

    What can I expect?

    A sparkling mix of new lighting installations including two new stunning light projections, Starscape, Cosmic Oasis, a  giant glitter ball in the Victorian Bandstand as well as a ‘selfie lane’ and a twinkling tunnel over the bridge connecting the two sections of the park.

    Do I need to buy a ticket to visit and how much are they?

    All visitors must have a ticket to enter the Festival of Light.  Tickets cost £5 each and must be bought online in advance. They can’t be bought at the gate. Children under two are free.

    Do I have to attend at the time shown on my tickets?

    Yes. When buying your ticket online, you will be asked to select an entry time. All visitors must attend at the time shown on their ticket. 

    Can I change the date and/or time or cancel my ticket once purchased?

    No. Festival of Light tickets are strictly non-transferable and non-refundable. Changes cannot be made to your booking once it is confirmed. 

    Can I leave the Festival of Light and return the same evening with my ticket?

    No. Your ticket is only valid for the entry time stated on the ticket. If you leave you will be unable to return at a later time that evening. Once you have entered the Festival of Light there is no limit on how long you can stay at the event. 

    Is the Festival of Light accessible to pushchairs and wheelchairs?

    Yes. The Festival of Light is fully accessible to pushchair and wheelchair users. 

    Will there be new lighting features and activities at this year’s Festival of Light?

    Yes there will be brand new lighting features combined with some classic favourites. You can expect some very exciting special additions this year. 

    Will there be food and drinks available on site? 

    Yes. There’ll be a great range of food and drinks available to buy in Mowbray Park. Visitors are also welcome to bring their own food and drinks however alcohol is strictly prohibited. 

    Will there be toilets and baby changing facilities available at the event? 

    Yes. Toilets and baby changing facilities will be available. 

    Will Mowbray Park be free to access during the day? 

    Yes. Access to the park will remain as usual until approximately 3pm every event day at which point the park will be closed for preparation of event visitors entering at 4pm. 

    Which roads will be closed during the event? 

    Due to Mowbray Park’s city centre location, no roads will be closed during the event.  

    Where can visitors to the event park?

    Parking is free Monday – Friday after 3pm at the following car parks:

    • Gorse Road
    • West Wear Street
    • Charles Street
    • Tatham Street
    • Nile Street

    On street pay and display parking bays are  chargeable all days between 8am-6pm at the hourly tariff including Sundays
    Riverside, St Marys and Sunniside car parks are chargeable at all times.
    All City Centre car parks are chargeable all day on a Sunday at a flat rate of £3
    You can find out more about where to park and parking fees by clicking the links below:
    Car parks – Sunderland City Council
    On street parking places – Sunderland City Council

    Can I use public transport to get to the event? 

    Visitors can get to the site using both bus and Metro services. Please visit http://www.nexus.org.uk/bus/timetables for the latest information.

    Who do I contact if I have a query about my tickets?

    Please complete the form at http://www.seetickets.com/customerservice and a member of the team will contact you to discuss your booking.

    Who do I contact if I have a question about the Festival of Light?

    Please email events@sunderland.gov.uk and a member of our team will be happy to help.

    Quiet Hour

    A ‘quiet hour’ is available to book on selected dates for visitors looking for a quieter or calmer experience. During this time, music in the park will be turned down. Quiet hours are on from 4.30pm – 5.30pm every Thursday.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Haunting happenings at the Alley Theatre this Halloween

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    Haunting happenings at the Alley Theatre this Halloween

    18 October 2024

    Join the Ghostly Gathering at the Alley Theatre this Halloween with a range of spooky shows, marvellous magic and weirdly wonderful workshops,

    Barking Dog Theatre Company presents two shows on Monday 28th October. First up is The Whittaker’s Ghost at 2pm. Enjoy this spine-tingling ghost story, based on a supposedly real-life tale in Montreal in Canada, that’s perfect for ghouls and ghosts aged five to 10-year-olds. Don’t worry about the story being scary, Barking Dog’s two talented actors (with the help of some puppets and children from the audience) present this exciting tale, specially adapted for children.
    With original music and audience participation as well as use of puppetry and mime, this is an ideal Halloween adventure.

    Perfect for little witches and wizards aged under-six ‘Teddy is in Spooky Wood’ will take place at 3.30pm. This is the story of Sammy Ragdoll and her best friend Eddy The Teddy as they take a walk through the woods. Sammy warns Eddy to stick to the path, but Eddy is easily distracted and has a tendency to wander off. Soon he is lost and letting his imagination run away with him. Don’t worry, the only one likely to be scared during this performance is Eddy the Teddy. The production uses many elements of theatre -mime, puppetry and songs for children to join in with. It’s a perfect introduction to live entertainment for children who’ve never been to a show before, and a welcome return for Eddy the Teddy’s young fans.  Tickets are £4 or Family Ticket £13 per show

    The Alley will be the web of entertainment on Halloween Day – Thursday 31st October from 12noon-5pm. Spend some time encouraging your little ones to learn about the world with the use of imaginative and interactive play at the ‘Roarsome Interactive Role Play Village’. Take this opportunity to step into a world where learning meets imagination! Watch as your little ones dive into a realm of make-believe, and explore the world around them in the most magical way possible, and let the adventures begin this Halloween. Various sessions available from 12noon – 4pm. Cost £2, suitable from walking age to five-year-olds.

    Everyone’s favourite magician Parky will also be entertaining all the ghouls, goblins, witches and wizards who visit the Alley for Halloween. His range of magical tricks will leave them spellbound with two shows at 1pm and 3.15pm. Word of warning – Be prepared for spooktacular laughter and giggles. Parky will perform at 1pm and 3.15pm. Admission is free, but must be pre-booked. 

    You can also get creative in the Alley’s Halloween inspired arts and crafts workshops from 1-5pm. A series of drop-in classes are available to allow you to make some Halloween inspired crafts. Free admission.

    For more information and tickets visit http://www.alley-theatre.com or call the box office on 028 71 384444.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Around the Air Force: Overseas Absentee Ballots, TRICARE Changes for 2025, BLUE: An Agile Approach

    Source: United States Air Force

    Headline: Around the Air Force: Overseas Absentee Ballots, TRICARE Changes for 2025, BLUE: An Agile Approach

    In this week’s look around the Air Force, overseas service members can send absentee ballots free, new TRICARE contracts impact referrals and specialty care, and the newest issue of BLUE on the Airman Magazine website explores the shift to ACE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SR 542 Road to Artist Point has closed for the season

    Source: Washington State News 2

    GLACIER – The final 2.7 miles of State Route 542/Mount Baker Highway, also known as the Road to Artist Point, closed for winter at 8 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 16.

    The highway remains open to the closure point at milepost 54. Winter recreationalists are encouraged to monitor conditions throughout the season.

    Earlier this month, Washington State Department of Transportation maintenance crews worked to prepare the highway for winter by repairing guardrail, clearing ditches and removing hazardous trees.

    The scenic highway usually closes for the season between Oct. 15 and Nov. 1. During the closure, services at Artist Point, such as restrooms and garbage disposals, will be limited.

    Each year, crews remove snow and ice from the highway up to the Heather Meadows area throughout the winter. Crews close the last 2.7 miles, which has narrow, sharp curves and steep slopes for the safety of vehicle travelers. People who recreate throughout the year should visit the Glacier Public Service Center to get required permits and check weather conditions ahead of their outdoor adventures.

    People can find real-time updates for the road to Artist Point on the WSDOT Mount Baker Highway Mountain Pass page, the WSDOT Travel Map and X/formerly Twitter @wsdot_north.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Iran: authorities set to execute child offender contrary to international law

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Mohammad Reza Azizi is due to be executed in the city of Shiraz on Monday 

    Arrested as a 17-year-old, his execution would violate international law 

    ‘The international community, including UN bodies and the EU and its member states, must urgently intervene to save this young man’s life’ – Sara Hashash 

    The Iranian authorities must stop the imminent scheduled execution of Mohammad Reza Azizi, a 21-year-old man who was a 17-year-old child at the time of his alleged offence. 

    Amnesty International has learned that the Iranian authorities plan to carry out his execution on Monday (21 October) in the city of Shiraz in Fars province. 

    His death sentence and planned execution contravene international law which strictly prohibits the imposition of the death penalty against people who were under 18 at the time of the alleged crime. 

    Mohammad Reza Azizi was arrested in September 2020 when he was 17 years old and was subsequently convicted of murder and sentenced to death by Branch 1 of Criminal Court One of Fars province on 15 August 2021. 

    According to legal documents reviewed by Amnesty, he was interrogated without a lawyer being present after his arrest and the court subsequently relied on supposed “confessions” to issue its verdict sentencing Mohammad Reza Azizi to death. The Iranian supreme court upheld his conviction and death sentence in November 2021, and a request for judicial review was rejected in July 2023.

    According to legal documents reviewed by Amnesty, the Legal Medicine Organisation of Iran – a state forensic institute under the judiciary’s supervision – concluded that Mohammad Reza Azizi had attained “mental growth and maturity” at the time of the crime. The organisation didn’t provide an explanation of how it had reached this conclusion beyond noting he was able to name his first and last name.

    Amnesty has repeatedly urged the Iranian authorities – including judges and doctors from the Legal Medicine Organisation of Iran – to halt these “maturity assessment” processes as they fundamentally violate children’s human rights and risk subjecting them to the death penalty. Instead, the authorities should adopt a position that treats all of those aged under 18 as less mature and culpable than adults, in accordance with international juvenile justice principles.

    Mohammad Reza Azizi is currently held in Adel Abad prison in Shiraz in Fars province. According to information received by Amnesty, the Iranian authorities have previously scheduled his execution at least once previously this year.

    As a state party to the Convention on the Rights of the Child and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, Iran is legally obliged to treat anyone under the age of 18 as a child and ensure they are never subjected to the death penalty or life imprisonment without the possibility of release.

    Sara Hashash, Amnesty International’s Middle East and North Africa Deputy Director, said:  

    “The planned execution of Mohammed Reza Azizi puts on full display the Iranian authorities’ cruelty. Their repeated flagrant disregard for the right to life is an abhorrent assault on children’s rights. 

    “Using the death penalty against someone who was a child at the time of the crime is prohibited under international human rights and customary law, and violates Iran’s international obligations.

    “Mohammed Reza Azizi’s rights to a fair trial were violated, including by being interrogated without a lawyer and the court relying on his coerced ‘confessions’ as evidence to convict and sentence him to death. 

    “The Iranian authorities must immediately halt Mohammad Reza Azizi’s execution, quash his conviction and sentence, and grant him a fair retrial.

    “The international community, including UN bodies and the EU and its member states, must urgently intervene to save this young man’s life.”

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI: Elevate Renewables Selected to Receive $27.5 Million in DOE Federal Funding for Innovative Use of Battery Energy Storage System Through “Green Sync” Inertia Project at Devon Generating Station in Milford, CT.

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BOSTON, Oct. 18, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Elevate Renewables (“Elevate” or the “Company”), a leading battery storage development company is pleased to announce that its Innovative Inertia Project at the Devon Generating Station in Milford, CT. has been selected to receive $27.5 million in federal funding under the U.S. Department of Energy’s Grid Resilience and Innovation Partnerships (GRIP) Program.

    The Innovative Inertia Project aims to reconfigure an existing fossil-fueled peaking unit and enable the deployment of a battery energy storage system (“BESS”) to provide synchronous condensing (“green sync”) and other essential grid services. Elevate is focused on repurposing existing energy infrastructure as traditional thermal resources retire (i.e., brownfields) and intermittent and renewable resources increasingly become the predominant resources on the grid.

    The Company will demonstrate that its BESS can provide inertia and synchronous condensing – remedying any immediate imbalance between electrical supply and system demand on the power grid- grid services historically offered by fossil fuel assets. The integration of this BESS technology will showcase its scalability and replicability, contributing to grid stability as Connecticut and the United States progress through the clean energy transition. It will also enhance resilience and deliver significant community and decarbonization benefits, particularly in historically overburdened areas of the state, by reducing emissions and supporting greater adoption of renewable energy sources.

    Elevate will partner with the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (“CT DEEP”) and the Connecticut Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (“CT PURA”) on the project.

    “Elevate is committed to identifying and commercializing innovative solutions that balance reliability and decarbonization through the application of battery energy storage. This project is a prime example of how batteries, in conjunction with existing infrastructure, can yield a win-win to help reduce our everyday reliance on fossil fuels while also benefiting existing power plant employees and the communities where we operate. We are excited to collaborate with the DOE, CT DEEP, and CT PURA to demonstrate our commitment to energy reliability while still accomplishing our decarbonization goals,” stated Eric Cherniss, Head of Development at Elevate Renewables.

    “As extreme weather events continue to stress electric systems across the country, the Biden-Harris Administration is using every tool in the toolbox to make sure America’s power grid can provide reliable, affordable power,” said Maria Robinson, Director, Grid Deployment Office, U.S. Department of Energy. “By leveraging state-of-the-art grid enhancing technologies and applications, Elevate Renewables will help to add more energy to the grid faster, improve reliability and resilience, and invest in innovative technologies so customers in Connecticut can have access to more renewable energy and pay less for their electricity.”

    “I am thrilled that the U.S. Department of Energy has selected Elevate’s Innovative Inertia project in Milford, Connecticut, for federal funding,” said DEEP Commissioner Katie Dykes. “By repurposing an existing power generating facility and combining it with a new battery energy storage system, this project has the potential to provide important grid stability services and help make our state and region’s electric grid more affordable, reliable, and clean.”

    Innovative Inertia Project Anticipated Outcomes and Benefits:

    Resilience and Reliability for Grid Stability and Restoration: The project will provide about 23 MVA (mega volt-amperes) of reactive power for grid stabilization and up to 20 MW/80 MWh of energy resilience infrastructure available from a BESS capable of black-start grid restoration operations.

    Scalability Potential: With over 1,000 combustion turbine sites across the U.S., the project has the potential to be scaled nationwide. By proving the efficacy of BESS-enabled synchronous condensing and other battery-enabled grid services, the project could serve as a model for similar brownfield repurposing efforts and support increasing grid reliance and reliability needs expected as traditional thermal generation facilities retire.

    Community Benefits: Through a $2.7 million community investment program, the project will prioritize Disadvantaged Communities, including a distressed municipality near the generating station. The project will support the retraining of at least 20 power plant employees. In addition, the project commits to contracting businesses that are majority-owned or controlled by underrepresented persons or groups of underrepresented persons in New England and is committed to hiring workers from vulnerable or underrepresented communities for construction. Some or all of this project is anticipated to be executed in collaboration with the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) and other existing unions.

    Established by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the Grid Resilience and Innovation Partnerships (GRIP) Program is a $10.5 billion investment to enhance grid flexibility, improve the resilience of the power system against extreme weather, and ensure American communities have access to affordable, reliable, electricity when and where they need it. GRIP funding is administered by the U.S. Department of Energy’s Grid Deployment Office (GDO).

    ABOUT U.S. DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY’S GRID DEPLOYMENT OFFICE
    The mission of the Grid Deployment Office (GDO) is to catalyze the development of new and upgraded electric infrastructure across the country by maintaining and investing in critical generation facilities, developing and upgrading high-capacity electric transmission lines nationwide, and deploying transmission and distribution technologies. Learn more at energy.gov/gdo.

    ABOUT ELEVATE RENEWABLES
    Elevate Renewables is a utility-scale battery storage company focused on strategically deploying battery infrastructure co-located with existing power infrastructure facilities. The Company has significant experience and resources to effectuate utility-scale battery infrastructure with an extensive brownfield pipeline of over 4 GWs.  Elevate Renewables is active throughout the United States, where electrification and the rapid growth of intermittent renewables have created a need and advantage for renewable utility-scale battery storage. For more information, please visit http://www.elevaterenewableenergy.com.

    Join our online communities on LinkedIn, Twitter (X), and Facebook to stay updated on Elevate Renewable’s events and developments.

    Company Contact:
    Elevate Renewables
    Market & Media Communications
    200 Clarendon Street, FL 55
    Boston, MA 02116
    Email: jjanson@elevaterenewableenergy.com 
    Direct: (585) 232-5440

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: USS Makin Island Changes Command

    Source: United States Navy

    Slough assumed command of Makin Island in April 2023 after serving as the ship’s executive officer since 2021.

    As Makin Island’s commanding officer, her exemplary leadership spearheaded the successful completion of numerous training and certification events, enabling the deployment of a combat-ready ship following a 100-day Continuous Maintenance Availability and a truncated training cycle. Throughout her tour, she demonstrated a unique talent for innovation and interoperability in advanced warfighting concepts, successfully integrating with the thirteenth Marine Expeditionary Unit during workups and a highly productive seven-month deployment to the Indo-Pacific Region. She masterfully employed her forces, executing 11 individual exercises and operations involving 22 partner nations, and oversaw the first-ever deployment of a full squadron of 10 F-35B Lightning II fifth-generation fighter jets aboard an Amphibious Assault Ship. With commitment to excellence, she guided Makin Island to earn the 2023 Battle Effectiveness Award, achieving a 100 percent first-pass qualification rate in every mission area and executing 3,000 individual training events.

    “Serving as the commanding officer of the USS Makin Island has been the most rewarding experience of my career.” said Slough, “The dedication and resilience of this crew, combined with the constant improvement of our capabilities on this ship, have made every challenge an opportunity for growth.

    Together, we’ve pushed boundaries, achieved mission success, and demonstrated the true strength of teamwork and innovation in the modern Navy.”

    Arana, a 1997 graduate of the University of Florida, was commissioned in 1999 through the Officer Candidate School program. He has served as the executive officer of Makin Island since April 2023. Prior to joining the Raider family, he completed squadron tours with HSC-26, 28 and was a plank owner of the HSC Weapons School Atlantic. He h also served as the Assistant Air Officer (MINIBOSS) aboard USS KEARSARGE (LHD 3), Operations and Maintenance Officer for the Tridents of HSC-9. Post Department Head, CAPT Arana served on the Joint Staff, Pentagon in the National Military Command Center as Operations Officer, National Joint Operations and Intelligence Center. He also served at the as Assistant Deputy Director for Operations, J-3, and as a Global Strike Advisor to the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Secretary of Defense, and the President of the United States. CAPT Arana went on to serve at the 59th commanding officer of the World-Famous Golden Falcons, forward deployed in Atsugi Japan. His most recent tour was as Helicopter Assignments Officer and Deputy Director of the Aviation Distribution Office at the Bureau of Navy Personnel (PERS 43).

    ” I am both humbled and excited to lead the finest amphibious ship in the fleet. This ship and its crew have a legacy of excellence, innovation, and resilience.” Said Arana. “I look forward to continuing that tradition, guiding our team to new heights, and ensuring we are always mission-ready, wherever the call may take us.”

    Makin Island, homeported in San Diego, is currently in a selective restricted availability. The Wasp-class ship is crewed by more than 1,200 Sailors and can embark more than 1,600 Marines. Makin Island’s mission is to transport and land ashore troops, equipment, and supplies to support and sustain amphibious assault operations.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: Military Sealift Command Far East Participates in Sama Sama

    Source: United States Navy

    “MSC Far East makes sure every U.S. military ship in the Indo-Pacific region is able to get fuel, ammo, and supplies; this can include services to our allies and partners,” said U.S. Navy Senior Chief Boatswain’s Mate Andrew Werner, MSC Far East, out of Singapore. “Without a Combat Logistics Force (CFL) or refueling ships, our fleet of ships, and those of some allies, such as the Philippines, would not be able to refuel at sea.”

    Sama Sama 2024, which was held Oct. 7-18, was hosted by the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the U.S. Navy, and featured participation from allies and partners throughout the Indo-Pacific region, including personnel and assets from Australia, Canada, France and Japan.

    MSC Far East provided subject-matter-expert instruction for the refueling-at-sea familiarization training, along with members attached to Commander, Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 7, out of Singapore.

    “The purpose of the training was to get the PN familiar with underway replenishment gear on a ship, how to set it up, and how to conduct a safe underway-replenishment,” said Werner. “MSC Far East has Boatswain’s mates that are subject-matter-experts and can train the Philippine Sailors. We do the similar training with other allies and partners.”

    Underway replenishments of allied partners present a unique opportunity to strengthen partnerships and exercise compatibility of logistics systems.

    “The training went over the fundamentals of refueling and replenishing at sea,” said U.S. Navy Chief Boatswain’s Mate Francisco Fuentes, DESRON 7. “We also conducted hands-on training and observed their on-station procedures for refueling-at-sea, and looked at their replenishment-at-sea stations forward of the ship.

    “It was important for us to do hands-on training because it helped them understand our safety procedures, maintenance requirements, and types of equipment we use and our station procedures. This helps with our interoperability.”

    According to Werner, he hopes that the training was beneficial to the PN, and they can mutually build upon interoperability.

    “Every Navy does evolutions a little different and we were able to show them how on our U.S. Navy conducts a safe refueling—just about every week—when underway on deployment,” added Werner. “They were excited and motivated to learn and I look forward to working with them again in the future.”

    Sama Sama 2024 is a multilateral engagement that includes a sea and shore phase that will incorporate medical, engineering, logistics and symposiums, while diving and explosive ordnance disposal teams, naval vessels and maritime surveillance aircraft conduct exercises focused on anti-submarine, surface and air warfare, and maritime domain awareness.

    MSC Far East supports the U.S. 7th Fleet and ensures approximately 50 ships in the Indo-Pacific Region are manned, trained, and equipped to deliver essential supplies, fuel, cargo, and equipment to warfighters, both at sea and on shore.

    U.S. 7th Fleet is the U.S. Navy’s largest forward-deployed numbered fleet and routinely interacts and operates with allies and partners in preserving a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

    Celebrating its 75th anniversary in 2024, MSC exists to support the joint warfighter across the full spectrum of military operations, with a workforce that includes approximately 6,000 Civil Service Mariners and 1,100 contract mariners, supported by 1,500 shore staff and 1,400 active duty and Reserve military personnel.

    MIL Security OSI –