NewzIntel.com

Category: Transport

  • MIL-OSI: Click Holdings Limited Announces Closing of Initial Public Offering

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Hong Kong, Oct. 10, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Click Holdings Limited (“CLIK” or the “Company”), a Hong Kong-based human resources solutions provider primarily focusing on talent sourcing and the provision of temporary and permanent personnel to customers including accounting and professional firms, Hong Kong listed companies, nursing homes, individual patients, logistics companies and warehouses, today announced the closing of its previously announced initial public offering of an aggregate 1,400,000 Ordinary Shares (“the Offering”) at a price of $4.00 per share (“the Offering Price”) to the public, for a total gross proceeds of $5.6 million to the Company, before deducting underwriting discounts and offering expenses.

    The Ordinary Shares began trading on the Nasdaq Capital Market on October 9, 2024, under the symbol “CLIK.”

    R.F. Lafferty & Co., Inc. (“Lafferty”), a full-service broker/dealer, acted as the primary underwriter for the Offering. Revere Securities LLC (“Revere”), a full-service broker/dealer, acted as the co-manager for the Offering. Dorsey & Whitney LLP, David Fong & Co, Beijing Dacheng Law Offices, LLP (Shenzhen) and Ogier are acting as U.S., Hong Kong, PRC and BVI legal counsel to the Company, respectively. Wei, Wei & Co., LLP is acting as the independent accountants of the Company. VCL Law LLP is acting as the U.S. legal counsel to Lafferty and Revere for the Offering.

    The Offering is being conducted pursuant to the Company’s registration statement on Form F-1 (File No. 333-280522), as amended, which was declared effective by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) on September 30, 2024. The Offering is being made only by means of a prospectus, which forms part of the registration statement. Copies of the final prospectus related to the Offering may be obtained, when available, from R.F. Lafferty & Co., Inc., 40 Wall Street, 27th Floor, New York, NY 10005, by phone at +1 212 293 9090 or by email at offering@rflafferty.com; or Revere Securities LLC, 560 Lexington Ave 16th floor, New York, NY, 10022, by phone at +1 212 688 2350 or by email at contact@reversesecurities.com. A copy of the final prospectus relating to the Offering can be obtained via the SEC’s website at http://www.sec.gov.

    Before you invest, you should read the prospectus and other documents the Company has filed with the SEC for more information about the Company and the Offering. This press release has been prepared for informational purposes only and shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy these securities, nor shall such securities be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from registration, nor shall there be any offer, solicitation or sale of these securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or jurisdiction.

    About Click Holdings Limited
     Click Holdings Limited is a human resources solutions provider, specializing in offering comprehensive human resources solutions in three principal sectors, namely (i) professional solution services, (ii) nursing solution services, and (iii) logistics and other solution services. We are primarily focused on talent sourcing and the provision of temporary and permanent personnel to customers. Our primary market is in Hong Kong and our diverse clientele includes accounting and professional firms, Hong Kong listed companies, nursing homes, individual patients, logistics companies and warehouses. We specialize primarily in placing professional accountants and company secretaries, registered nurses and healthcare workers, as well as other blue-collar workers, for direct hire and contract staffing roles. For more information, please visit our website https://clickholdings.com.hk.

    FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
    Certain statements contained in this press release about future expectations, plans and prospects, as well as any other statements regarding matters that are not historical facts, may constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements include, but are not limited to, statements relating to the expected trading commencement and closing dates. The words “anticipate,” “believe,” “continue,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “may,” “plan,” “potential,” “predict,” “project,” “should,” “target,” “will,” “would” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain these identifying words. Actual results may differ materially from those indicated by such forward-looking statements as a result of various important factors, including: the uncertainties related to market conditions and the completion of the public offering on the anticipated terms or at all, and other factors discussed in the “Risk Factors” section of the preliminary prospectus filed with the SEC. For these reasons, among others, investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance upon any forward-looking statements in this press release. Any forward-looking statements contained in this press release speak only as of the date hereof, and Luda Technology Group Limited specifically disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

    For more information, please contact:

    offerings@rflafferty.com
    Equity Capital Markets
    R. F. Lafferty & Co., Inc.
    40 Wall Street, 27th Floor, 
    New York, NY 10005
    212.293.9090

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: A force for prevention

    Source: Victoria Country Fire Authority

    Made up of more than 700 volunteers from brigades across the state, CFA’s Planned Burn Taskforce (PBTF) is a critical initiative to reduce the severity of bushfire, and protect lives, properties and the environment.

    Taskforce members have a variety of skills sets. Some have extensive burning experience and years of membership under their belts; others are newer CFA members who have recently completed their General Firefighter training. 

    At its core, the taskforce’s efforts aim to reduce fuel loads. However, the proactive, coordinated approach to the burns not only helps safeguard communities, but also preserves natural habitats and biodiversity, promoting rejuvenation and resilience.

    Members interested in joining the PBTF must complete General Firefighter, Entrapment Drill and Tree Hazard Awareness and have their captain’s approval. For more information visit Members Online. 

    We spoke to three members of the taskforce to find out their motivations for joining and why they believe the taskforce is important.

    Michelle Tie, Rowville Brigade

    Rowville brigade firefighter Michelle Tie said being a member of the PBTF gave her the opportunity to be active across wider sections of the community.

    A CFA member for five years and in the Planned Burn Taskforce for three, Michelle saw joining the group as an opportunity to get hands-on experience with fire after completing her General Firefighter training.

    “I hadn’t done any planned burning prior to joining the taskforce. It’s a fantastic way to learn and build experience, and I have learned so much ‘on the job’.”

    Michelle said she was initially nervous attending her first burn with the taskforce because she was the only member from her brigade, but she found the group to be incredibly supportive.

    “By stepping outside of my comfort zone, I have learned so much about fire behaviour especially across different environments which are often very different to the usual callouts we get at Rowville,” Michelle said.

    “I came away from that first burn a much more confident firefighter.

    “I love working with different brigades and members from across the state – the camaraderie makes me incredibly proud to be a part of CFA.” 

    Michelle believes that the success of the PBTF lies in its ability to support brigades to achieve local and state goals. 

    “It’s so vital that brigades have access to the support, skills and experience of the wider CFA community to manage their fire risk,” she said.

    “At the end of the day, this makes Victoria safer for everyone.”

    Tully Machtynger, Kalorama and Mt Dandenong Brigade

    “Joining the taskforce is a great opportunity to get hands-on experience and training on the tools especially for members of smaller brigades who may not get close to, and experience, fire prior to a campaign season,” Tully Machtynger said.  

    “It also provides the opportunity to network with the broader CFA community, talk to people from other brigades and learn how they operate and train.”

    A firefighter and Junior leader, Tully has been a member of Kalorama and Mt Dandenong brigade for two years and a member of the PBTF for one. 

    “Being fairly new to CFA and the area, joining the taskforce was recommended by one of my assessors when I was going through General Firefighter as a great way to see and get used to fire in a controlled way,” Tully said.

    “I’ve been to six or seven burns across the state, predominantly in West Region. I hadn’t done any planned burning prior to joining the taskforce, only responding with my brigade to a couple of escaped burn-offs conducted by local residents.”

    The taskforce is activated when districts are unable to fulfil needs locally. While it’s a role that requires flexibility and the time commitment varies, Tully said she has learned so much working alongside experienced taskforce members. 

    “It’s psychologically beneficial to know what you can face in practice, and the taskforce has definitely value-added to my volunteer experience,” Tully said. “My sense of my own capability has completely changed. By my third burn I felt more confident turning out and in my ability to support my own brigade on the fireground.”

    Elvis Crook, Bulla Brigade 

    With 21 years of membership under his belt, a change in career gave Bulla Captain Elvis Crook more flexibility in his availability so he put himself forward for the PBTF.

    “I’ve participated in a number of planned burns over the years. I thought the taskforce would be a good opportunity to network with members from across the state as well as keep my fireground skills sharp,” he said.

    “There is no better means of observing fire behaviour in a controlled environment which ultimately benefits your skills throughout an active fire season. 

    “An added benefit of having such a broad group of members together from across the state is being able to informally share information and ideas.”

    Elvis said that without the taskforce many critical burns wouldn’t go ahead as regularly. 

    “I remember a burn earlier in the year where I was on a local truck with the brigade captain. The rest of the crew was from the PBTF. 

    “He was very thankful that we were there to crew the truck as the burn we were doing would help protect his land and that of other community members.” 

    Elvis says that if you are thinking of joining the taskforce – do it!

    “The thing I enjoy the most is the camaraderie. The taskforce is like a family; I have made connections with other members who I now call friends. 

    “Attending a burn is also training in itself. I’d highly recommend any newer members who have not had a lot of fireground experience or might be with a brigade with low call numbers to join to build on their experience.

    “I’ve been in the CFA a long time and haven’t immediately felt so at home like I do with this crew.”

    Submitted by News and Media

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Child care program closed over safety concerns

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    As a result of a number of non-compliances involving unsupervised children, Willowbrae Academy West Point Centre, a child-care program in Edmonton, was suspended and placed on a probationary licence with a term that expired on Oct. 9. Since the probationary license was issued, Child Care Licensing has worked with the program through enhanced monitoring to support them in returning to compliance.

    Due to ongoing concerns and unaddressed non-compliances involving unsupervised children, Willowbrae Academy’s suspended licence was not reinstated. The closure of this program affects about 187 children.

    Families affected by the closure of the program were notified in person on Oct. 9. Families not informed in person will be notified by email as soon as the contact information is provided by the child-care program. In addition, a notice confirming closure of the program, which describes the reason for closure, has been posted on the door of the facility.

    Jobs, Economy and Trade will continue to provide support, information and assistance to families looking for alternative child-care options.

    Anyone with concerns about a child-care program in their community or needing to report an incident is encouraged to call Child Care Connect toll-free at 1-844-644-5165.

    Information on child-care program closures can be found on the Finding and Choosing Child Care webpage (link below).

    Quick facts

    • Jobs, Economy and Trade monitors licensed child-care programs across the province and takes appropriate actions to ensure safety and compliance with the Early Learning and Child Care Act and the Early Learning and Child Care Regulation.
    • A licence holder who is subject to a decision respecting their licence may request, within 30 days of the decision, an administrative review, alternative dispute resolution or an appeal to bring forward concerns regarding a licencing decision, up to and including cancellation.
    • Alternative child-care options can be found online through the Child Care Lookup Tool.

    Related information

    • Child Care Lookup Tool
    • Finding and Choosing Child Care
    • Early Learning and Child Care Act
    • Child Care licensing – How to appeal

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Statement on World Day Against the Death Penalty

    Source: Government of Canada News

    The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today issued the following statement

    October 10, 2024 – Ottawa, Ontario – Global Affairs Canada

    The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today issued the following statement:

    “On this World Day Against the Death Penalty, Canada reaffirms its opposition to the death penalty in all cases, everywhere.

    “The death penalty is incompatible with human rights and human dignity. Not only is it ineffective as a deterrent to crime, but its use also carries the significant risk of innocent individuals being executed. It has also been disproportionately used against members of marginalized groups and people who oppose authoritarian regimes, including political opponents and human rights defenders.

    “Canada strongly encourages all countries to abolish the death penalty. While condemning the death penalty, Canada also calls on countries where it is still practiced to respect international safeguards and standards, including due process and fair trials.

    “We are pleased to work closely with the World Coalition Against the Death Penalty, the International Commission Against the Death Penalty and the Alliance for Torture-Free Trade, all of which aim to abolish the use of the death penalty, torture and other cruel and degrading punishments.

    “The majority of nations have abolished the death penalty, and Canada proudly stands among them. Our stance is rooted in a commitment to upholding human rights for all individuals.”

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Lebanon, Palestine, Ukraine & other topics – Daily Press Briefing | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Noon briefing by Farhan Haq, Deputy Spokesperson for the Secretary-General.

    Highlights:

    – Lebanon
    – Senior Personnel Appointment
    – Occupied Palestinian Territory
    – Lao PDR
    – Deputy Secretary-General
    – Libya
    – Sudan
    – South Sudan
    – Zambia
    – Ukraine
    – Nepal
    – Haiti
    – Senior Personnel Appointment
    – Nansen Award
    – Post Day
    – Briefings today and tomorrow

    Lebanon
    We have an update from our peacekeeping colleagues in southern Lebanon. Over the past 24 hours, the exchanges of fire between the Israel Defense Forces and Hizbullah have continued to intensify. Peacekeepers observe large-scale air strikes by Israel, mainly across southern Lebanon, concurrent with its ground activities in the areas of Marun ar-Ras, Bint Jbeil, Aytarun, Kafr Kila and Labbouneh. They have also continued to observe fire by Hizbullah towards Israel.
    The UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) has confirmed that yesterday [8 October] IDF personnel vacated their position in the vicinity of UNIFIL post UNP 6-52, although movement of IDF personnel and vehicles continues on a nearby road.
    Some UN positions have been impacted, sustaining damage from numerous incidents, including to a security camera at UNP 1-31, damage to perimeter walls, gunshots on a vehicle, and shrapnel damage to prefab accommodation. Fortunately, there are no reports of peacekeepers wounded.
    As we have been saying repeatedly, the safety and security of our peacekeepers is a paramount priority and is a shared responsibility of all parties.
    All parties must abide by their obligations under international law, including international humanitarian law.
    We also reiterate our call, both for immediate de-escalation and for the parties to return to a cessation of hostilities and the full implementation of Resolution 1701.

    Occupied Palestinian Territory
    Turning to Gaza, the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs has an update on the situation in the northern areas. In recent days, Israeli authorities once again ordered more than 400,000 people who remain north of Wadi Gaza to move south, while at the same time tightening access restrictions and expanding military operations in the north. Crossing points into northern Gaza have been largely closed for both humanitarian and commercial supplies. Checkpoints inside Gaza are only permitting civilians to move south — and allowing just a trickle of humanitarian movement into the north.
    OCHA warns that these developments are forcing services critical for people’s survival to shut down one by one. According to the UN Relief and Works Agency, seven schools sheltering displaced people are being evacuated, and only two of eight water wells in the Jabalya refugee camp remain functional.
    The north is also facing severe shortages of bread and food supplies. Explosive munitions burned down the only bakery supported by the World Food Programme in Jabalya refugee camp.
    Today, OCHA and the World Health Organization tried to reach northern Gaza to support the Kamal Adwan hospital, after Israeli authorities ordered its immediate evacuation. After receiving a green light from the Israeli authorities for the mission, the team was forced to wait at a holding point for many hours. Ultimately, the mission had to be aborted.
    Despite these challenges, aid workers are seizing any opportunity to support people in northern Gaza. UNRWA is utilizing limited stocks already in the north to distribute high-energy biscuits from WFP to children in designated shelters and delivering bread bundles to families in certain areas. Hot meals are being distributed by our partners to newly displaced families, some of whom are also receiving tents. And water is being delivered using trucks.

    Ukraine
    Turning to Ukraine, the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs says intense attacks in the south and east of the country this week have killed and injured dozens of civilians and damaged homes, a hospital and schools.
    Authorities and partners on the ground in the southern city of Kherson report that about 20 civilians – including children – were injured in attacks on Monday. At least 280 apartments in 10 buildings were also damaged.
    NGOs have mobilized emergency assistance – including first aid, food kits and shelter materials – to help families cover the damage to their homes as winter approaches.
    Aid workers continue to provide emergency support, including in Chornomorsk Town in the Odesa Region, where attacks yesterday and today injured five civilians and damaged multiple homes and a hospital. Those affected received emergency shelter kits and psychosocial support, as well as child protection and case management services.
    OCHA saus that inter-agency convoys also reached war-affected communities in the Kharkiv and Kherson regions this week, delivering essential hygiene supplies, winter clothes, blankets and charging stations.

    Full Highlights: https://www.un.org/sg/en/content/noon-briefing-highlight?date%5Bvalue%5D%5Bdate%5D=09%20October%202024

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6og5F7aYTRc

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Global: ‘Cajun Navy’ volunteers who participate in search-and-rescue operations after hurricanes are forming long-lasting organizations

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Kyle Breen, Assistant Professor of Sociology, Texas A&M International University

    Volunteers with Savage Freedoms Relief Operation coordinates aid in Swannanoa, on Oct. 7, 2024, after Hurricane Helene severely damaged the North Carolina town. Allison Joyce/AFP via Getty Images

    The volunteers who take part in search-and-rescue operations and then support disaster survivors belong to organizations that have become more formal and established over the past decade. That’s what we found after spending more than four years volunteering alongside eight of these groups to better understand their role and the motivations of the people who participate in these efforts.

    We did this research as part of a larger team of sociologists, an urban planning scholar and emergency management specialists. All of us worked alongside civilian volunteer search-and-rescue groups from Louisiana and Texas between 2017 and 2022 during and after many hurricanes, including Harvey and Laura, the winter storm known as Uri and other major disasters.

    While we volunteered with these organizations, we observed them in action and interviewed their leaders and volunteers to learn why they were making the time and taking personal risks to save others. Many cited their personal values, expressed their need to belong to a group, and said it had helped them find a sense of purpose. Others shared that they were motivated by their personal circumstances and experiences or feelings of guilt, or that this kind of volunteering gave them a deep sense of satisfaction.

    “I lost everything I owned in Katrina. They deemed my family’s property uninhabitable,” said a boater we’ll call Dylan to protect his anonymity. “I can’t sit here after knowing what it is to lose everything.”

    Some volunteers said that one reason why they have repeatedly done this work is to counter stereotypes about people who engage in these efforts. When he’s heard people say, “Oh you’re just out there, doing it for the spotlight,” said Roger, he told us he wants to respond by saying, “Yeah, dude. If you flood, call me, I’ll come get you.”

    While the organizations we researched were based in Louisiana and Texas, the volunteers who participate in these efforts come from across the U.S. and, in some cases, other countries. One volunteer we met was from the United Kingdom.

    After Hurricane Helene destroyed roads in western North Carolina, rescue squads delivered aid by donkey and helicopter.

    Why it matters

    Since Hurricane Katrina struck the Gulf Coast in 2005, volunteers have been participating in search-and-rescue efforts after big disasters – especially in that region. But these volunteers come from all over.

    Many of these groups are known as “Cajun Navy” organizations. Whether or not these organizations use the Cajun Navy branding in their names they share, a common mission of helping others in emergencies.

    These volunteers aren’t just operating boats and helicopters. Others serve as dispatchers, handle logistics, and run social media operations.

    Over time, some of the organizations have begun to team up with local emergency responders, signing memorandums of understanding with them. They partner with government agencies while assisting in disaster response and relief efforts, but they primarily operate with autonomy and are able to travel where they perceive the need is greatest.

    This kind of group tends to dissolve after a disaster is over, instead of evolving into an established nonprofit.

    But many of the eight groups we studied have become nonprofits or are in the process of doing so.

    How we do our work

    We were able to do this research by becoming volunteers ourselves. We took part in dispatch operations on the ground and remotely, and we supported logistics planning. We also observed and, in some cases, participated in search-and-rescue training and operations in the water and on land.

    The Research Brief is a short take about interesting academic work.

    Kyle Breen received funding from the National Science Foundation for this research. He currently holds funding from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada and the Canadian Institutes of Health Research for other research projects.

    J. Carlee Purdum received funding from The National Science Foundation for this research and for other ongoing projects.

    – ref. ‘Cajun Navy’ volunteers who participate in search-and-rescue operations after hurricanes are forming long-lasting organizations – https://theconversation.com/cajun-navy-volunteers-who-participate-in-search-and-rescue-operations-after-hurricanes-are-forming-long-lasting-organizations-240769

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: WATCH: Senator Reverend Warnock Discusses Faith, Family, and Service in New Episode of PBS’ “Breaking Bread with Alexander”

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock – Georgia

    WATCH: Senator Reverend Warnock Discusses Faith, Family, and Service in New Episode of PBS’ “Breaking Bread with Alexander”

    In his hometown of Savannah, Senator Reverend Warnock joined host Alexander Heffner for a discussion about his public service as a U.S. Senator for all Georgians, and how his faith and family shaped his childhood in the Coastal Empire
    Over brunch and a stroll, Senator Reverend Warnock shared his approach to making change in Washington, including the importance of bipartisanship and his work on issues top of mind for Georgians like defending our democracy and closing the health care gap
    Senator Reverend Warnock: “I think activism, and speaking, and demonstrations are part of the democratic process. We need people shaking it up on the outside, as long as they are non-violent and dignified in their approach, and we need people shaking it up on the inside”

    Above: Senator Warnock and Alexander Heffner
    Washington, D.C. – In a recently-aired episode of PBS’ Breaking Bread with Alexander, U.S. Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA) joined journalist and host Alexander Heffner in his hometown of Savannah to discuss how his family, faith, and childhood in Coastal Georgia shaped his life and continues to inform his service for all Georgians in the United States Senate. The interview, which originally aired on October 2, follows Senator Warnock and Alexander as they converse while strolling along “Raphael Warnock Way” a street named honoring the Senator just outside of his childhood home, and then as they enjoy a meal of chicken and waffles at famous Savannah restaurant Collins Quarter.
    During the episode, the Senator dived into his approach to delivering for Georgians in Washington and how he works to center people in federal policymaking, discussing the power of bipartisanship to create consensus and solve problems, how being a father shapes his leadership, and why he continues to fight on issues like health care that are top of mind to many Georgians. 
    Watch the new episode HERE.
    Read key excerpts from the interview below:
    On bipartisanship
    Senator Reverend Warnock (SRW): “I’m proud of the fact that I came to the Senate in the 117th Congress. Out of 100 senators, it was easy for me to remember where I was on the pecking order, I was number 100, the most junior senator in the Senate. Yet I managed to be listed, according to bills and work that I had done, as the 18th (now 14th) most bipartisan senator in the Senate. I’m proud of that because I won in the special election, which means Republicans knew I was going to be up again in two years for reelection and yet, I was able to get enough of them to work with me to be listed as the 18th most bipartisan senator in the Senate.
    “I think that is what our country needs, I am who I am, I believe what I believe, there are some things I’m not going to compromise on in terms of the core of my values and what I think are important – human dignity, that everybody ought to have a path to prosperity, that ours is a country that ought to embrace all of our children. And that’s my North Star, but you’ll find there are a whole range of things we can work on together.”
    On his family and ministry
    SRW: “My dad was the pastor of a small church not far from here on Gwinnett Street, but he was also a junk man. He literally took care of our family by loading old junk cars that other folk had thrown away, stacking them one on top of the other, taking them down to what was then Chattem Steel, and that’s how he took care of his family.
    “On Sunday mornings, the man who spent all week lifting broken cars, lifted broken people with his message of hope, the depth of his faith, his grit and determination of a Black man born in 1917, a World War II veteran who in one instance had to give up his seat on a bus while wearing his soldiers uniform to a young teenager.
    “His faith inspires me.
    “My mother grew up in Waycross, Georgia. She grew up in a slightly different time in the 1950s, as a teenager picking somebody else’s Tobacco, picking somebody else’s cotton.
    “The octogenarian hands that used to pick somebody else’s Tobacco, somebody else’s cotton, could pick her son to be a United States Senator. Only in America is my story possible.”
    On health care
    SRW: “I’m someone who was shaped and inspired by the civil rights and human rights tradition. In 2014, I stood up saying we need to expand Medicaid in Georgia, as part of the Affordable Care Act. We have 600,000 Georgians in the coverage gap, and who are these people? They are mostly the working poor.
    “Dr. King said ‘Of all the injustices, inequality in healthcare is the most shocking and the most inhumane’. I was part of a demonstration in front of the Governor’s office here in Georgia and I was arrested fighting for Medicaid expansion. I thought it was a small price to pay when I considered that here we had an opportunity to give poor people, working-class people access to dignity, access basic health care, preventative care, that would literally save lives. And the state leaders were digging in their heels for political purposes. And so I got arrested in the state capital in Georgia, I’ve gotten arrested in the U.S. capital, also fighting for health care, fighting to protect SNAP benefits. And I’ll continue to ring the bell on this issue, it’s so very important.”
    Alexander Heffner: “Do we need more civil disobedience in American life today?”
    SRW: “I think activism, and speaking, and demonstrations are part of the democratic process. We need people shaking it up on the outside, as long as they are non-violent and dignified in their approach, and we need people shaking it up on the inside. I’ve had my experience with both, I often say that now I’ve translated my protest into public policy, my agitation into legislation, but I will do anything within reason, that is consistent with my values if it will get people health care.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Brown Convenes Tax Professionals for Free, One Day Tax Clinic to Assist East Palestine Residents Filing Amended Returns

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Ohio Sherrod Brown
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown announced that East Palestine residents who received reimbursements from Norfolk Southern in the aftermath of the February 3, 2023 train derailment will be able to take advantage of a free, one-day tax clinic where Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Certified Volunteers will help residents complete amended returns so that they don’t pay taxes on their reimbursements.
    Brown aggressively and successfully pushed the IRS and Treasury Department to make tax exempt most payments and reimbursements received from Norfolk Southern.
    The IRS is requiring East Palestine residents to file amended returns to ensure that they are not taxed on any assistance received from Norfolk Southern.
    “It was important to take on the IRS and ensure that East Palestine residents did not have to pay tax on assistance they received from Norfolk Southern,” said Brown. “Now, we want to make sure they do not have to pay a tax service to file the amended tax return that they shouldn’t have had to file in the first place. Our office is glad to bring together these community organizations to make this happen.”
    Details of the one-day tax clinic hosted by Brown’s office are below. Brown’s office partnered with The Way Station, The Village of East Palestine, United Way Youngstown and the Mahoning Valley, Catholic Charities Regional Agency, and the United Way of Summit & Medina.
    Date: Friday, October 11, 2024
    Time: 9AM-5PM
    Location: First Church of Christ, 20 W Martin St, East Palestine, OH 44413
    Call 330.540.1947 or 330.610.3805 to schedule an appointment.
    Appointments must be scheduled in advance.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: Readout of Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Lisa Franchetti’s Meeting with Chief of the Hellenic Navy General Staff Vice Adm. Dimitrios-Eleftherios Kataras

    Source: United States Navy

    VENICE, Italy – Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Lisa Franchetti met Chief of the Hellenic Navy General Staff Vice Adm. Dimitrios-Eleftherios Kataras for a formal bilateral engagement during the 14th Trans-Regional Seapower Symposium in Venice, Italy, today.

    The two leaders discussed strengthening their naval partnership through increased interoperability and future maritime cooperation deployments, and the importance of Greece’s contributions to the NATO alliance.

    Franchetti thanked Kataras for Greece’s leadership in the Red Sea through operation Aspides, which they noted effectively cooperates with Operation Prosperity Guardian, as they work together to defend the rules-based international order and protect the free-flow of commerce. She also thanked him for their integration with the USS Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group while in the Eastern Mediterranean earlier this year.

    Franchetti and Kataras discussed the CNO’s recently-released strategic guidance: the Navigation Plan for America’s Warfighting Navy, and their mutual focus on the priorities of Warfighting, Warfighters and the Foundation. They also discussed initiatives to support recruiting and retention, as well as future Professional Military Exchange opportunities.

    As NATO allies, the United States and Greece enjoy a long-standing friendship and partnership rooted in shared democratic values and strong cultural ties.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Federal Disaster Assistance for Connecticut Tops $6 Million

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Federal Disaster Assistance for Connecticut Tops $6 Million

    Federal Disaster Assistance for Connecticut Tops $6 Million

    Two weeks after President Joseph R. Biden declared a major disaster for the state of Connecticut following the August 18-19, 2024 severe storm, flooding, landslides and mudslides, more than $6 million in federal assistance has been provided by FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) to support disaster recovery. 

    Homeowners and renters whose homes and property were damaged by the storm, and who still need to apply for federal assistance, have until November 19, 2024, to do so.

    As of October 8, Connecticut’s recovery assistance includes:

    • More than $5 million in FEMA’s Individual and Households Program (IHP) grants awarded to eligible homeowners and renters in three Connecticut counties. These grants help pay for uninsured and underinsured losses and storm-related damage, including:
      • More than $3.9 million in FEMA housing grants to help pay for home repair, home replacement and rental assistance for temporary housing.
      • More than $1.1 million in Other Needs Assistance grants to help pay for personal property replacement and other serious storm-related needs—such as moving and storage fees, transportation, childcare, and medical and dental expenses.
      • More than $1 million in long-term, low-interest disaster loans has been approved by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) for homeowners and renters to help repair, rebuild or replace disaster-damaged physical property and to cover economic injury for businesses of all sizes and non-profit organizations.

    The three Connecticut counties designated for FEMA assistance in this disaster are: Fairfield, Litchfield, and New Haven. 

    FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) teams have been visiting storm-affected neighborhoods in the designated counties to help residents apply for FEMA assistance, identify and address immediate needs, and make referrals to other local, state and voluntary agencies for additional support. To date, DSA personnel have visited more than 8,803 households and 697 businesses to connect survivors with assistance.

    In addition to FEMA’s $5 Million in grants and SBA’s $1 Million in loans, the National Flood Insurance Program has also helped survivors whose homes were affected by the disaster, paying more than $2.4 million in claims to policy holders for flood damage related to the storm.

    FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs) have been opened in Fairfield and New Haven counties to provide one-on-one support to survivors. At the centers, recovery specialists from FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration provide information on available services, explain assistance programs, and help survivors complete or check the status of their applications for assistance. A FEMA Hazard Mitigation Community Education Outreach Specialist will also be on site to assist survivors in preparing for future incidents. No appointment is necessary to visit a Disaster Recovery Center. Walk-ins are welcome.

    The DRC in Fairfield County is located at: 

    Our Lady of Fatima Church

    229 Danbury Road 

    Wilton, CT 06897 

    The DRC in New Haven County is located at: 

    Southbury Town Hall

    501 Main Street S

    Southbury, CT 06488 

    Operating Hours: 

    Monday – Friday: 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. 

    Saturday: 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

    Sunday: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. 

    Note: Open on the holiday – Monday, October 14

    To apply for FEMA assistance without visiting a center, go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, download the FEMA mobile app or call the FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-3362. If you use a relay service such as video relay service, captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service when you apply.

    adrien.urbani

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Life-saving Medicare Advantage Prior Authorization Bill Reaches Critical Milestone in House

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Suzan DelBene (1st District of Washington)

    Today, U.S. Representatives Suzan DelBene (WA-01), Mike Kelly (PA-16), Ami Bera, M.D. (CA-06), and Larry Bucshon, M.D. (IN-08) released the following statement after securing the support of a bipartisan majority for the Improving Seniors’ Timely Access to Care Act (H.R. 8702) with over 218 cosponsors in the U.S. House of Representatives. The legislation would improve care for seniors by streamlining and standardizing the way Medicare Advantage (MA) plans use prior authorization and increasing oversight and transparency.

    “With over 33 million Americans enrolled in Medicare Advantage, modernization of the prior authorization process is long overdue. Lawmakers on both sides of the aisle, hundreds of health care organizations, and Americans from all corners of the country agree – streamlining this process will allow our Nation’s seniors to receive the care they are entitled to more efficiently. As champions of this legislation, we are grateful to our bipartisan majority of House colleagues for their support and look forward to working with them to get this critical bill signed into law.”

    BACKGROUND

    Prior authorization is a tool used by health plans to reduce unnecessary care by requiring health care providers to get pre-approval for medical services. However, the current system often results in unconfirmed faxes of a patient’s medical information or phone calls by clinicians which take precious time away from delivering quality and timely care. Prior authorization continues to be the number one administrative burden identified by health care providers, and three out of four Medicare Advantage enrollees are subject to unnecessary delays due to prior authorization. In recent years, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) raised concerns after an audit revealed that Medicare Advantage plans ultimately approved 75% of requests that were originally denied. More recently, HHS released a report finding that MA plans incorrectly denied beneficiaries’ access to services even though they met Medicare coverage rules.

    Health plans, health care providers, and patients agree that the prior authorization process must be improved to better serve patients and reduce unnecessary administrative burdens for clinicians. Additionally, leading health care organizations released a consensus statement to address some of the most pressing concerns associated with prior authorization.

    Specifically, the bill would:

    • Establish an electronic prior authorization process for MA plans including standardization for transactions and clinical attachments.
    • Increase transparency around MA prior authorization requirements and its use.
    • Clarify CMS’ authority to establish timeframes for electronic prior authorization requests including expedited determinations, real-time decisions for routinely approved items and services, and other prior authorization requests.
    • Expand beneficiary protections to improve enrollee experiences and outcomes.
    • Require HHS and other agencies to report to Congress on program integrity efforts and other ways to further improve the electronic prior authorization process.

    The Improving Seniors’ Timely Access to Care Act unanimously passed the House in the 117th Congress and was cosponsored by a majority of members in the Senate and House of Representatives. 

    This bill is supported by over 440 national and state organizations representing patients, physicians, MA plans, hospitals, and other key stakeholders in the health care industry. To see the list, click here.

    The full text of the legislation can be found here. A section-by-section summary can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Google DeepMind’s Demis Hassabis & John Jumper awarded Nobel Prize in Chemistry

    Source: Google

    This post originally appeared on the Google DeepMind Blog.

    This morning, Co-founder and CEO of Google DeepMind and Isomorphic Labs Sir Demis Hassabis, and Google DeepMind Director Dr. John Jumper were co-awarded the 2024 Nobel Prize in Chemistry for their work developing AlphaFold, a groundbreaking AI system that predicts the 3D structure of proteins from their amino acid sequences. David Baker was also co-awarded for his work on computational protein design.

    Before AlphaFold, predicting the structure of a protein was a complex and time-consuming process.

    AlphaFold’s predictions, made freely available through the AlphaFold Protein Structure Database, have given more than 2 million scientists and researchers from 190 countries a powerful tool for making new discoveries. The AlphaFold 2 paper, published in 2021, remains one of the most-cited publications of all time.

    AlphaFold’s contributions to science have been widely praised, and among its recognitions are the 2023 Albert Lasker Basic Medical Research Award, the 2023 Breakthrough Prize in Life Sciences, the 2023 Canada Gairdner International Award, the 2024 Clarivate Citation Laureate award, and the 2024 Keio Medical Science Prize Award.

    Artificial Intelligence (AI) has long shown incredible potential for use in scientific research, and AlphaFold was proof-of-concept. As more scientists adopt AI for use in everything from building data, to simulating experiments, drug design, modelling complexity, discovering novel solutions for extant problems, and building upon existing knowledge, we will continue to see foundational scientific breakthroughs in the years ahead.

    In a statement released after informed of the news, Demis Hassabis said:

    “Receiving the Nobel Prize is the honour of a lifetime. Thank you to the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences, to John Jumper and the AlphaFold team, the wider DeepMind and Google teams, and to all my colleagues past and present that made this moment possible. I’ve dedicated my career to advancing AI because of its unparalleled potential to improve the lives of billions of people. AlphaFold has already been used by more than two million researchers to advance critical work, from enzyme design to drug discovery. I hope we’ll look back on AlphaFold as the first proof point of AI’s incredible potential to accelerate scientific discovery.”

    After receiving the news that he won the Nobel Prize, John Jumper released the following statement:

    “Thank you to the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences for this extraordinary honor. We are so honored to be recognized for delivering on the long promise of computational biology to help us understand the protein world and to inform the incredible work of experimental biologists. It is a key demonstration that AI will make science faster and ultimately help to understand disease and develop therapeutics. This is the work of an exceptional team at Google DeepMind and this award recognizes their amazing work.

    Computational biology has long held tremendous promise for creating practical insights that could be put to use in real-world experiments. AlphaFold delivered on this promise. Ahead of us are a universe of new insights and scientific discoveries made possible by the use of AI as a scientific tool. Thank you to my colleagues over the years, for making possible this moment of recognition, as well as the many moments of discovery that lie ahead.”

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Verizon está listo y ofrece consejos a medida que el huracán Milton se acerca a Florida

    Source: Verizon

    Headline: Verizon está listo y ofrece consejos a medida que el huracán Milton se acerca a Florida

    Alpharetta, GA – A medida que el huracán Milton se acerca a la costa de Florida, Verizon sigue comprometido a mantener conectados a la comunidad y al personal de primeros auxilios. Además de una red reforzada diseñada para soportar las condiciones más extremas, los ingenieros de Verizon tomaron firmes medidas de preparación para garantizar que haya recursos disponibles para una respuesta rápida.

    “En Verizon, nuestra principal prioridad es apoyar a las comunidades a las que servimos. Nuestra capacidad de respuesta y apoyoen tiempos de crisis realmente importan”, dijo la presidenta de Atlantic South Market de Verizon, Leigh Anne Lanier. “Desde familias hasta empresas y socorristas, estamos aquí para brindarles unservicio confiable en el que pueden contar. Nuestro equipo está trabajando incansablemente para mantener a nuestros clientes conectados ahora y en los próximos días.”

    Después del huracán Helene, las comunicaciones por satélite han demostrado ser una importante herramienta de comunicación cuando los servicios terrestres se han visto afectados. Asegúrese de que su teléfono esté listo con anticipación. Los clientes con un iPhone 14 o posterior deben actualizar a iOS 18 para asegurarse de poder enviar mensajes de texto o conectarse con servicios de emergencia vía satélite. Y para aquellos con dispositivos Google Pixel 9, la mensajería de emergencia también está disponible vía satélite. Ambos sistemas operativos cuentan con demos disponibles que permiten a los clientes practicar con antelación la mensajería vía satélite. Obtenga más información aquí.

    Las redes de Verizon están preparadas

    Las redes de Verizon están preparadas para mantener la conectividad incluso ante condiciones climáticas extremas. Con redundancia integrada en rutas y componentes críticos, la red de Verizon está diseñada con el objetivo de resistir condiciones climáticas adversas. Los ingenieros de Verizon se han preparado realizando controles exhaustivos, además de garantizar que los sistemas de respaldo, como baterías y generadores, estén operandoy cargados. Verizon también ha instalado enlaces en los Centros de Operaciones de Emergencia del área para permitir una comunicación perfecta con agencias locales, estatales y gubernamentales para garantizar una restauración rápida.

    En preparación para posibles operaciones de recuperación de la red, Verizon ha puesto en marcha una flota de soluciones de redes portátiles, incluidos activos de redes portátiles satelitales, que proporcionan conectividad crucial en escenarios donde las conexiones de fibra se ven comprometidas, así como generadores móviles para ayudar a las comunidade con una pérdida de energía comercial.

    Verizon Frontline está listo y preparado para ayudar a los socorristas en cualquier capacidad

    El equipo de respuesta a crisis de primera línea de Verizon está listo para ayudar a garantizar que las agencias de seguridad pública en la primera línea de cualquier desastre tengan las capacidades de comunicaciones críticas necesarias para lograr sus misiones. Este equipo, compuesto principalmente por ex socorristas y personal militar, se dedica exclusivamente a apoyar a los clientes de seguridad pública durante emergencias sin costo para las agencias que reciben la ayuda.

    En los primeros nueve meses de 2024, el equipo de respuesta a crisis de primera línea de Verizon respondió a más de 1000 solicitudes de soporte de comunicaciones de misión crítica de más de 500 agencias diferentes en 46 estados.

    Estar preparado es esencial para apoyar a las empresas y comunidades locales

    Al reconocer el papel fundamental de la conectividad en la continuidad del negocio, Verizon Business ofrece un conjunto de soluciones adaptadas para operaciones fluidas durante emergencias. Las empresas y las organizaciones gubernamentales necesitan tener un plan de acción adecuado. Las acciones sugeridas incluyen:

    • Mitigar las interrupciones para los clientes: Es importante pensar en lo que se necesita para garantizar un servicio continuo a sus clientes y qué software y equipo necesita su empresa para continuar con sus operaciones. Haga una lista detallada, que incluya contratos de servicio e información de garantía, y todos los números de teléfono pertinentes de las autoridades locales, empresas de servicios públicos, proveedores y vendedores.
    • La tecnología adecuada tiene un impacto: asegúrese de tener la tecnología adecuada para satisfacer las necesidades de conectividad de su empresa, suponiendo que necesite mudarse de su ubicación principal.
    • Los contactos y los documentos son clave: asegúrese de tener la información de contacto actualizada y disponible para todos los empleados, incluida la información del hogar para los trabajadores remotos y la información de las sucursales para las oficinas satélite.
    • Pruebe, pruebe y vuelva a probar: pruebe las redes primarias y de respaldo y refuerce las áreas débiles.
    • Mantenga un registro del equipo: asegúrese de que los empleados que trabajan desde casa hayan documentado todo el equipo corporativo que se utiliza para trabajar desde casa en caso de daño o pérdida.
    • Tenga un plan de respaldo: asegúrese de que existan planes de respaldo para cambiar el trabajo en caso de que los empleados que trabajan desde casa en un área afectada por la tormenta tengan que evacuar sus hogares o su hogar se quede sin energía comercial.

    ¿Estás listo para el huracán?

    El equipo de Verizon trabaja todo el año para garantizar que los clientes permanezcan conectados con sus seres queridos y las actividades que les brindan comodidad durante un desastre. Mientras los residentes se preparan para mantenerse conectados y entretenidos, considere estos consejos:

    • Abastecerse de fuentes de carga como baterías para linternas y radios o cargadores de dispositivos. Vaya un paso más allá y cargue sus dispositivos que pueden actuar como cargadores para otros dispositivos, como computadoras portátiles y centrales eléctricas. ¡No olvide tener los cables!
    • Descargue películas, libros, aplicaciones y juegos en caso de un corte de energía. O reúna juegos de mesa, juegos de cartas y rompecabezas para prescindir de dispositivos.
    • Localice documentos importantes que pueda necesitar más adelante, así como fotografías y artículos sentimentales.
    • Planificar comidas no perecederas. Tenga a mano algunos ingredientes no perecederos, como un abrelatas manual y otros utensilios de cocina.
    • Tome algunas velas, mantas, almohadas o cualquier cosa que haga que su espacio seguro contra huracanes sea cómodo.
    • Lea los consejos de preparación para huracanes de la Cruz Roja Americana
    • Agregar nuestra página verificar estado de la red o va a la aplicación My Verizon y haga clic en Temas de soporte (Support Topics) para notificarnos si experimenta algún problema con la red o para verificar si hay algún problema conocido en s u área. Ingrese su ubicación, seleccione el tipo de problema de servicio y le proporcionaremos una actualización del estado en tiempo real.

    Más información

    Visite el Centro de recursos de emergencia en línea de Verizon, verizon.com/about/news/emergency-resource-center, para obtener más detalles sobre las capacidades de respuesta de emergencia de Verizon.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kaptur Announces Over $3 Million in New Federal Funding for NW Ohio Fire Departments

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09)

    Toledo, Ohio – Today, during National Fire Prevention Week, Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09), a senior Member of the House Appropriations Committee and of the House Fire Caucus announced $3,052,523 in critical federal funding she helped to secure. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Assistance to Firefighter Grant (AFG) and Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) programs will award 9 Fire Departments across Northwest Ohio new funding to ensure that first responders have the resources and manpower they need to protect local communities. These awards will provide essential funding for equipment, protective gear, vehicle acquisition, hiring, and training, enabling fire department to respond more effectively to emergencies and keep both the public and our emergency personnel safe.

    The 9 Fire Departments in Northwest receiving AFG and SAFER funding are:

    • Village of Sherwood Volunteer Fire Department – $75,428
      • The AFG funds will help the Village of Sherwood Volunteer Fire Department in Defiance County to afford operations and safety improvements, including the purchase of 8 new Self Contained Breathing Apparatuses (SCBA’s) and replace outdated ones.
    • City of Wauseon Fire Department – $53,522
      • The AFG funds will allow the City of Wauseon in Fulton County to purchase a Three Drop Source Capture Exhaust System that will help ensure all Fire Apparatus can utilize the system when parked in the bay. This will minimize their staff’s exposure to cancer causing exhaust contaminants. The City of Wauseon share of the cost is $2,676.14.
    • Village of Whitehouse Fire Department – $294,214
      • The AFG funds will be used by the Village of Whitehouse in Lucas County to upgrade operations and safety with new Self Contained Breathing Apparatuses (SCBA’s).
    • City of Vermilion Volunteer Fire Department – $302,182
      • The AFG funds will be used by the City of Vermillion in Erie County to upgrade operations and safety by replacing outdated air packs for firefighters to better and more safely protect residents
    • Village of Kelleys Island Volunteer Fire Department – $75,361
      • The AFG funds will be used by the Village of Kelleys Island in Erie County for operations and equipment, and will replace aged firehose, handline nozzles, and an additional ground monitor. This equipment will not only be an upgrade, but it will be major upgrades that meet current standards replacing outdated hoses that are 20-30 years old, many of which were donated by other fire departments.
    • City of Huron Fire Department – $135,523
      • The AFG funds will be used by the City of Huron in Erie County to replace bunker gear for the entire department. This will ensure the department is compliant with safety and equipment upgrades.
    • Monclova Township Fire Department – $1,013,046
      • The SAFER funds will be used by Monclova Township in Lucas County for the hiring of additional full-time firefighters for their department, including wages and benefits.
    • Village of Oak Harbor, Portage Fire District – $163,428
      • The AFG funds will be used by the Village of Oak Harbor in Ottawa County for operations and safety improvements and upgrades, including the replacement of soon to be outdated Self Contained Breathing Apparatuses (SCBA’s).
    • City of Northwood Fire Department – $939,819
      • The SAFER funds will be used by the City of Northwood in Wood County for the hiring of 3 additional full-time firefighters for their department, including wages and benefits.

    “Our firefighters and first responders are the ones on the frontlines, running toward danger when others are running in the other direction. They deserve nothing less than the best tools and training to stay safe while protecting our communities,” said Congresswoman Kaptur (OH-09). “This funding will give them exactly that — critical gear, better pay, new vehicles, and equipment upgrades to better protect them as they respond to emergencies and safeguard lives across Northwest Ohio.”

    “With the purchase of the SCBA’s this promotes safety for the public and especially for our firefighters by getting equipment we could not afford to replace. SCBA’s are one of the most essential tools of personal protection for the fire rescue personnel, and will allow them to operate more efficiently,” said Village of Sherwood Fire Chief Darrel Rock.

    “This additional Three Drop Source Capture System ensures that all Wauseon Fire Apparatus can utilize the system when parked in the apparatus bay, therefore, minimizing the exposure our staff have to cancer causing exhaust contaminants. It is important that when our staff come to work, they are provided with a work environment that minimizes any negative exposure that could harm them or be taken home to their families,” said Wauseon Fire Chief Phil Kessler.  “The Assistance to Firefighter Grant Program is extremely important to fire departments across the nation. These funds allow us to invest in our staff, the infrastructure and most importantly the community. Most departments would not be able to procure many of these much-needed items.”

    “The Assistance to Firefighters Grant significantly benefits The Village of Whitehouse by providing funds to upgrade Self-Contained Breathing Apparatuses. This upgrade will impact Whitehouse and surrounding areas by improving Firefighter Safety, embracing new technology, and ensuring operational readiness including mutual aid responses,” said Whitehouse Fire Chief Jason Francis. “As funding is challenging for some communities, this award allows us to replace our outdated equipment that would have been challenging based on our current financial situation.”

    “Congresswoman Kaptur’s FEMA Assistance to Firefighters Grant of $302,182  for the City of  Vermilion Volunteer Fire Department was a true game changer for our community,” said Vermillion Mayor Jim Forthofer. “It allows us to replace the outdated air packs to protect our firefighters as they protect our residents. It also releases funds back to the general community for other worthy purposes. Congresswoman Kaptur is a real friend of Vermilion, especially its first responders”

    “Absolutely, we were very fortunate to receive the funding and it is a financial game-changer for the City,” said Vermillion Fire Chief William H. Brown.

    “First of all, I must express our appreciation of this award from not only from our fire department but also our community as a whole. Our community presents itself with unique fire suppression challenges,” said Kelleys Island Assistant Fire Chief Charles Ehrbar. “We are on Kelleys Island on Lake Erie with a little over 120 year-round residences but our summertime population can near 5,000. We have a roster of only 17 volunteer firefighters. The area of the island is approximately 2 miles by 4 miles. We are now experiencing an influx of new builds of larger and taller residential and commercial structures. Being on an island that is accessed only by ferry and aircraft, in the event of a fire incident, our mutual aid is at best one and a half hours for response, if they can respond at all. That being said, we are on our own and must make the best of any situation. This new and updated equipment gives us an advantage of technology and dependability that we certainly did not have prior to this award.”

    “This grant has allowed us to continue serving the citizens and businesses of our service area along with assisting other surrounding fire departments,” said Portage Fire Chief Antonio Hand.

    These new funding announcements follow a $671,428 award for Ney-Washington Township in August 2024, a $952,380 award to the City of Defiance in July 2023, and a $110,014.28 award to the City of Wauseon in June 2023 all secured through FEMA’s AFG program.

    The Assistance to Firefighters Grant program, established in 2001, provides funding to meet the needs of fire departments and non-affiliated emergency medical service organizations. AFG awards are designed to help these agencies obtain the necessary resources to protect the public and emergency personnel from fire-related hazards. In fiscal year 2023 alone, FEMA distributed 1,616 AFG awards, totaling $289.2 Million.

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Artisan Partners Asset Management Inc. Reports September 2024 Assets Under Management

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MILWAUKEE, Oct. 09, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Artisan Partners Asset Management Inc. (NYSE: APAM) today reported that its preliminary assets under management (“AUM”) as of September 30, 2024 totaled $167.8 billion. Artisan Funds and Artisan Global Funds accounted for $81.0 billion of total firm AUM, while separate accounts and other AUM1 accounted for $86.8 billion.

    PRELIMINARY ASSETS UNDER MANAGEMENT BY STRATEGY2    
         
    As of September 30, 2024 – ($ Millions)    
    Growth Team    
    Global Opportunities $         22,005          
    Global Discovery           1,688          
    U.S. Mid-Cap Growth           12,792          
    U.S. Small-Cap Growth           3,177          
    Global Equity Team    
    Global Equity           360          
    Non-U.S. Growth           13,217          
    China Post-Venture           188          
    U.S. Value Team    
    Value Equity           4,931          
    U.S. Mid-Cap Value           2,863          
    Value Income           17          
    International Value Team    
    International Value           46,605          
    International Explorer           343          
    Global Value Team    
    Global Value           29,390          
    Select Equity           338          
    Sustainable Emerging Markets Team    
    Sustainable Emerging Markets           2,006          
    Credit Team    
    High Income           11,295          
    Credit Opportunities           254          
    Floating Rate           73          
    Developing World Team    
    Developing World           4,225          
    Antero Peak Group    
    Antero Peak           2,175          
    Antero Peak Hedge           228          
    International Small-Mid Team    
    Non-U.S. Small-Mid Growth           7,311          
    EMsights Capital Group    
    Global Unconstrained           655          
    Emerging Markets Debt Opportunities           1,024          
    Emerging Markets Local Opportunities           680          
         
    Total Firm Assets Under Management (“AUM”) $         167,840          

    1 Separate account and other AUM consists of the assets we manage in or through vehicles other than Artisan Funds or Artisan Global Funds. Separate account and other AUM includes assets we manage in traditional separate accounts, as well as assets we manage in Artisan-branded collective investment trusts, and in our own private funds.
    2 AUM for Artisan Sustainable Emerging Markets and U.S. Mid-Cap Growth Strategies includes $97.7 million in aggregate for which Artisan Partners provides investment models to managed account sponsors (reported on a lag not exceeding one quarter).


    ABOUT ARTISAN PARTNERS
    Artisan Partners is a global investment management firm that provides a broad range of high value-added investment strategies to sophisticated clients around the world. Since 1994, the firm has been committed to attracting experienced, disciplined investment professionals to manage client assets. Artisan Partners’ autonomous investment teams oversee a diverse range of investment strategies across multiple asset classes. Strategies are offered through various investment vehicles to accommodate a broad range of client mandates.

    Investor Relations Inquiries: 866.632.1770 or ir@artisanpartners.com
    Source: Artisan Partners Asset Management Inc.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: CBORD Achieves StateRAMP Authorization for Online Transaction Processing

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ITHACA, N.Y., Oct. 09, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — CBORD, a leading provider of integrated technology solutions powering access, foodservice, nutrition, commerce, and card systems for higher education, acute healthcare, senior living, and business campuses, is thrilled to announce its CBORD Online Transaction Processing solution has achieved StateRAMP Authorization, reaffirming its commitment to data security and compliance.

    StateRAMP, a nationally recognized risk authorization management program, provides a standardized approach to assessing cloud products. Achieving StateRAMP Authorization demonstrates CBORD’s dedication to meeting the highest security and compliance standards, ensuring the trust and confidence of government agencies and organizations.

    CBORD’s Online Transaction Processing, a cutting-edge solution designed to securely process and manage financial transactions across various platforms, has undergone a rigorous third-party assessment and review by the StateRAMP Program Management Office. This achievement reflects CBORD’s unwavering commitment to delivering a secure and reliable solution government agencies can rely on to safeguard their data and operations.

    Josh Elder, CBORD’s information security officer, expressed his excitement about achieving StateRAMP Authorization, saying, “At CBORD, we are committed to ensuring our solutions are secure, reliable, and compliant. Achieving StateRAMP Authorization enables us to demonstrate our commitment to meeting the rigorous cybersecurity requirements needed to serve state and local governments.”

    Government agencies and organizations can now confidently rely on CBORD’s StateRAMP Authorized CBORD Online Transaction Processing to streamline their operations, reduce risk, and enhance data security.

    For more information about CBORD Online Transaction Processing and CBORD’s StateRAMP Authorization, please visit https://stateramp.org/product-list/. You can also contact CBORD at marketing@cbord.com.

    About CBORD
    CBORD, a Roper Technologies company (Nasdaq: ROP), is a leading provider of food and nutrition management software, integrated security solutions, campus card and cashless systems, and commerce platforms for healthcare, senior living, higher education, and business campuses. With over 10,000 organizations using CBORD solutions globally, CBORD is committed to delivering innovative and comprehensive technology solutions that enhance the daily lives of patients, residents, students, staff and administrators.

    Contact:
    CBORD
    marketing@cbord.com
    http://www.cbord.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/5aa2cf77-87a1-40af-a062-227480eea855

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Bel Fuse Schedules Third Quarter 2024 Financial Results Conference Call

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    WEST ORANGE, N.J., Oct. 09, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bel Fuse Inc. (Nasdaq: BELFA and BELFB), a designer, manufacturer, and provider of products that power, protect and connect electronic circuits, today announced plans to release preliminary financial results for the third quarter after market close on Wednesday, October 23, 2024. An earnings conference call has been scheduled as follows:

    When: Thursday, October 24, 2024 at 8:30 a.m. ET
    Dial in: 877.407.0784, or international: 201.689.8560
    Online: https://ir.belfuse.com/events-and-presentations
    How: Live over the internet – Simply log on to the web at the address above
    Replay: 844.512.2921, or international: 412.317.6671
    Conference ID:   13749258

    A replay will be available after 12:30 p.m. ET for 30 days following the call.

    About Bel
    Bel (http://www.belfuse.com) designs, manufactures and markets a broad array of products that power, protect and connect electronic circuits. These products are primarily used in the networking, telecommunications, computing, military, aerospace, medical, transportation and broadcasting industries. Bel’s product groups include Power Solutions and Protection (front-end, board-mount and industrial power products, module products and circuit protection), Connectivity Solutions (expanded beam fiber optic, copper-based, RF and RJ connectors and cable assemblies), and Magnetic Solutions (integrated connector modules, power transformers, power inductors and discrete components). The Company operates facilities around the world.

    Contacts:

    Bel Fuse Inc.

    Lynn Hutkin, VP Financial Reporting & Investor Relations
    ir@belf.com

    Three Part Advisors
    Jean Marie Young, Managing Director
    Steven Hooser, Partner
    jyoung@threepa.com
    shooser@threepa.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: RCP Advisors Secondary and Co-investment Programs Ranked Among Top by PitchBook

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DALLAS, Oct. 09, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — P10, Inc. (NYSE: PX), a leading private markets solutions provider, today announced that its subsidiary, RCP Advisors (RCP), has been recognized by PitchBook in its 2023 Global Manager Performance Score League Tables, an annual ranking of asset manager funds to inform LP decision-making. RCP’s secondary family of funds (RCP SOF I-IV) ranked among the top ten secondary programs, while its co-investment program (RCPDirect I-IV) achieved the highest performance score in the co-investment category.

    “This recognition is a testament to the deep expertise and dedication of the RCP team,” said Luke Sarsfield, P10 Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. “RCP has a focused approach in the small buyout market that is well positioned to deliver continued exceptional results.”

    RCP Advisors specializes in private equity primary fund, secondary fund, and co-investment fund strategies, focusing on North American small buyout fund managers. The strong ranking by PitchBook underscores the firm’s consistent approach in providing investors access to the attractive small buyout space.

    “Our top-performing strategy is a result of our firm-wide commitment to the North American small buyout market,” said Jon Madorsky, Managing Partner and Co-Portfolio Manager of Secondary Funds at RCP. “Our laser focus gives us unique deal flow and diligence opportunities. We’re extremely proud of what we’ve achieved together at RCP.”

    Dave McCoy, Managing Partner and Co-Portfolio Manager of Co-investments at RCP added, “We are honored that our RCPDirect co-investment program has been recognized by PitchBook with a top performance score. Our team works hard to achieve these results, and I want to further thank our GPs and their portfolio management teams, without which our high-quality deal flow and operating performance would not be possible.”

    For more information about RCP, please visit https://www.rcpadvisors.com/.

    About P10
    P10 is a leading multi-asset class private markets solutions provider in the alternative asset management industry. P10’s mission is to provide its investors differentiated access to a broad set of investment solutions that address their diverse investment needs within private markets. As of June 30, 2024, P10 has a global investor base of more than 3,700 investors across 50 states, 60 countries, and six continents, which includes some of the world’s largest pension funds, endowments, foundations, corporate pensions, and financial institutions. Visit http://www.p10alts.com.

    About RCP
    Founded in 2001, RCP Advisors, a subsidiary of P10, Inc. (NYSE: PX), is a private equity investment firm that provides access to North American small buyout fund managers through primary funds, secondary funds, and co-investment funds, as well as customized solutions and research services. RCP believes it is one of the largest fund sponsors focused on this niche, with over $14.7 billion in committed capital* and 56 full-time professionals as of September 30, 2024.

    Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. There can be no assurance that a fund will achieve comparable results as any prior investments or prior investment funds of RCP. Source: PitchBook. The PitchBook Manager Performance Scores (the “Performance Scores”) are a third-party rating published by PitchBook, an independent third-party, on 9/20/24 (data as of most current date). The PitchBook Global Manager Performance Score League Tables (the “League Tables”) are a third-party rating published by PitchBook on 7/30/24 (data as of 12/31/23). The Performance Scores are a quantitative framework designed to assess the performance track record of a fund manager’s closed-end private market strategies, also known as fund families. The Performance Scores aggregate historical performance of each manager’s family of funds across vintage years and reflect the extent to which certain fund families outperformed or underperformed a benchmark, which is based on IRR across all fund vintages within the same fund strategy peer group (e.g., fund-of-funds, secondaries, co-investment, etc.). For the “co-investment – general” fund strategy, a total of 768 fund families across 1,479 funds were included in their evaluation. For the “Secondaries funds” fund strategy, a total of 60 fund families across 209 funds were included in their evaluation. To be included in the ranking, PitchBook required fund families to have at least two funds that are at least five years in age with a Z-score to qualify. Comparisons made by PitchBook are to fund sponsors with investment strategies, structures and investment terms and conditions that are different (in some cases, materially) than those of RCP. Additional information regarding the criteria and methodology underlying the Performance Scores are available here.

    Neither P10 nor RCP have not made any payment to PitchBook or any of its affiliates to be considered for this ranking or in connection with any other services. The Performance Scores should not be considered an endorsement of RCP or its funds by the authors or distributors of such rankings. The Performance Scores are developed on a proprietary basis exclusively by PitchBook. Neither P10 nor RCP have not independently verified the data used in PitchBook’s Performance Scores and makes no representations about the accuracy or completeness of such information or Performance Scores. This ranking is not to be construed as indicative of RCP’s future performance or the future performance of any investment vehicle managed by RCP. The Performance Scores should not be relied upon when making a decision to invest in any fund. *“Committed capital” primarily reflects the capital commitments associated with RCP’s SMAs, focused commingled funds, and advisory accounts advised by RCP since the firm’s inception in 2001 (including funds that have since been sold, dissolved, or wound down and certain historical advisory accounts for which RCP’s advisory contracts have expired). We include capital commitments in our calculation of committed capital if (a) we have full discretion over the investment decisions in an account or have responsibility or custody of assets or (b) we do not have full discretion to make investment decisions but play a role in advising the client on asset allocation, performing investment manager due diligence and recommending investments for the client’s portfolio and/or monitoring and reporting on their investments. For our discretionary SMAs and commingled funds, as well as for our non-discretionary advisory accounts for which RCP is responsible for advising on all investments within the client’s portfolio, committed capital is calculated based on aggregate capital commitments to such accounts. For non-discretionary accounts where RCP is responsible for advising only a portion of the client portfolio investments, committed capital is calculated as capital commitments by the client to those underlying investments which were made based on RCP’s recommendation or with respect to which RCP advises the client. Committed capital does not include (i) certain historical non-discretionary advisory accounts no longer under advisement by RCP, (ii) assets managed or advised by the Private Capital Unit or HB Units of RCP 2, (iii) capital commitments to funds managed or sponsored by RCP’s affiliated (but independently operated) management companies, and (iv) RCP’s ancillary products or services.

    Forward-Looking Statements
    Some of the statements in this release may constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Words such as “will,” “expect,” “believe,” “estimate,” “continue,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “plan” and similar expressions are intended to identify these forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements discuss management’s current expectations and projections relating to our financial position, results of operations, plans, objectives, future performance, and business. The inclusion of any forward-looking information in this release should not be regarded as a representation that the future plans, estimates, or expectations contemplated will be achieved. Forward-looking statements reflect management’s current plans, estimates, and expectations, and are inherently uncertain. All forward-looking statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other important factors that may cause actual results to be materially different; global and domestic market and business conditions; successful execution of business and growth strategies and regulatory factors relevant to our business; changes in our tax status; our ability to maintain our fee structure; our ability to attract and retain key employees; our ability to manage our obligations under our debt agreements; our ability to make acquisitions and successfully integrate the businesses we acquire; assumptions relating to our operations, financial results, financial condition, business prospects and growth strategy; and our ability to manage the effects of events outside of our control. The foregoing list of factors is not exhaustive. For more information regarding these risks and uncertainties as well as additional risks that we face, you should refer to the “Risk Factors” included in our annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023, filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) on March 13, 2024, and in our subsequent reports filed from time to time with the SEC. The forward-looking statements included in this release are made only as of the date hereof. We undertake no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement as a result of new information or future events, except as otherwise required by law.

    Ownership Limitations
    P10’s Certificate of Incorporation contains certain provisions for the protection of tax benefits relating to P10’s net operating losses. Such provisions generally void transfers of shares that would result in the creation of a new 4.99% shareholder or result in an existing 4.99% shareholder acquiring additional shares of P10, and it expires at the third anniversary of the IPO, October 2024.

    P10 Investor Contact:
    info@p10alts.com

    P10 Media Contact:
    Taylor Donahue
    pro-p10@prosek.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: IADC Nigeria Chapter Hosts HSE Awards & Technical Session

    Source: International Association of Drilling Contractors – IADC

    Headline: IADC Nigeria Chapter Hosts HSE Awards & Technical Session

    The 2024 IADC Nigeria Chapter HSE Awards and Technical Session was held on 13 September. Chapter Chairman Mr. Chuks Enwereji discussed workplace stress during the event’s safety moment. He then delivered an update on the state of the Nigeria Oil & Gas industry, providing valuable insights into the current landscape. 

    A special mention was given to the Petroleum Training Institute (PTI) IADC Student Chapter, the first of its kind in Nigeria. The chairman celebrated the presence of students from the PTI Student Chapter, recognizing the importance of nurturing future talent. Since its inception, the PTI IADC Student Chapter has organized several initiatives, including technical sessions and inter-level drilling quiz competitions, demonstrating their passion for industry excellence. The PTI Student Chapter extended its deepest gratitude to both IADC Headquarters and the IADC Nigeria Chapter for their continuous support.

    Guest speakers delivered thought-provoking presentations. Mrs. Ihuoma Okorie, CEO of Clintas Energy Resources Limited, addressed the critical topic “Competency Training in the Oil & Gas Industry.” Engr. Mercy Ntuk, HSSE Lead at Unitech Drilling Company Limited, followed with an engaging session on the topic “Developing and Sustain Competency in Critical Roles.” 

    The Chapter honored Member companies that actively participated in the 2023 Incident Statistics Program (ISP), with their reports meticulously analyzed by the HSE Committee. A total of ten companies submitted their 2023 reports, and after careful review, Shelf Drilling Offshore Services Limited emerged as the top performer for their exemplary safety practices. The following companies were recognized:

    • Aviam Offshore Engineering Company Limited
    • Charlvon Limited
    • Depthwize Nigeria Limited
    • Geoplex Drillteq Limited
    • Ocean Deep Drilling ESV Nigeria Limited
    • Pacific International Drilling West Africa Limited
    • Selective Marine Oil and Gas Limited
    • OES Energy Services
    • Unitech Drilling Company Limited
    • Shelf Drilling Nigeria Limited

    The 2024 HSE Awards & Technical Session was a resounding success, bringing together key industry stakeholders, government and regulatory agencies, and directors of  Member companies. It was a vibrant and interactive event filled with enriching presentations, valuable insights, and a strong sense of collaboration within the industry.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI: Employers Holdings, Inc. Appoints Michael Pedraja as its Next CFO

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    RENO, Nev., Oct. 09, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Employers Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: EIG), a leading provider of workers’ compensation insurance, is pleased to announce that Michael Pedraja will join the company as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (Designate), effective February 3, 2025. He will assume the role of Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer effective on or about March 31, 2025.

    Mr. Pedraja succeeds outgoing Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer, Michael Paquette, who will retire in March 2025.

    Mr. Pedraja has more than 30-years of experience as a corporate financial services leader in various insurance-related roles.

    “With a proven track record in financial leadership and a deep understanding of the insurance industry, Michael will be instrumental in driving our strategic goals, optimizing our financial operations, and helping to shape the next phase of the Company’s transformation,” said Katherine Antonello, President and Chief Executive Officer of Employers Holdings, Inc.

    As Chief Financial Officer, Mr. Pedraja will serve as a member of Employers Holdings’ executive leadership team and will be charged with leading the financial and investor relations functions of the business.

    Most recently, he served as Group Chief Financial Officer for Ariel Re Services, a leading reinsurance underwriter. His professional career spans roles from Senior Vice President and Treasurer of The Allstate Corporation to insurance-focused Investment Banker at Aon Securities, Barclays and Credit Suisse. Mr. Pedraja received a bachelor’s degree in accounting from DePaul University.

    “The team has a done a wonderful job in solidifying EMPLOYERS as America’s small business insurance specialist,” said Mr. Pedraja. “It is an honor to partner with Kathy and the leadership team to further that position while profitably growing the business and driving shareholder value.”

    About EMPLOYERS

    Employers Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: EIG), is a holding company with subsidiaries that are specialty providers of workers’ compensation insurance and services (collectively “EMPLOYERS®”) focused on small and mid-sized businesses engaged in low-to-medium hazard industries. EMPLOYERS leverages over a century of experience to deliver comprehensive coverage solutions that meet the unique needs of its customers. Drawing from its long history and extensive knowledge, EMPLOYERS empowers businesses by protecting their most valuable asset – their employees – through exceptional claims management, loss control, and risk management services, creating safer work environments.

    EMPLOYERS is also proud to offer Cerity®, which is focused on providing digital-first, direct-to-consumer workers’ compensation insurance solutions with fast, and affordable coverage options through a user-friendly online platform.

    EMPLOYERS operates throughout the United States, apart from four states that are served exclusively by their state funds. Insurance is offered through Employers Insurance Company of Nevada, Employers Compensation Insurance Company, Employers Preferred Insurance Company, Employers Assurance Company, and Cerity Insurance Company, all rated A – (Excellent) by A.M. Best. Not all companies do business in all jurisdictions. EIG Services, Inc., and Cerity Services, Inc., are subsidiaries of Employers Holdings, Inc. EMPLOYERS® is a registered trademark of EIG Services, Inc., and Cerity® is a registered trademark of Cerity Services, Inc. For more information, please visit http://www.employers.com and http://www.cerity.com.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    In this press release, the Company and its management discuss and make statements based on currently available information regarding their intentions, beliefs, current expectations, and projections of, among other things, the Company’s future performance, economic or market conditions, including current levels of inflation, changes in interest rates, labor market expectations, catastrophic events or geo-political conditions, legislative or regulatory actions or court decisions, business growth, retention rates, loss costs, claim trends and the impact of key business initiatives, future technologies and planned investments. Certain of these statements may constitute “forward-looking” statements as that term is defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements can be identified by the fact that they do not relate strictly to historical or current facts and are often identified by words such as “may,” “will,” “could,” “would,” “should,” “expect,” “plan,” “anticipate,” “target,” “project,” “intend,” “believe,” “estimate,” “predict,” “potential,” “pro forma,” “seek,” “likely,” or “continue,” or other comparable terminology and their negatives. The Company and its management caution investors that such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance. Risks and uncertainties are inherent in the Company’s future performance. Factors that could cause the Company’s actual results to differ materially from those indicated by such forward-looking statements include, among other things, those discussed or identified from time to time in the Company’s public filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), including the risks detailed in the Company’s Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and the Company’s Annual Reports on Form 10-K. Except as required by applicable securities laws, the Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise.

    Media Contact:

    Kimberly Eye
    Vice President, Marketing & Communications
    keye@employers.com

    Investor Relations Contact:
    Michael Paquette
    Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer
    mpaquette@employers.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Security: United States to Provide Php28M in Humanitarian Aid, Logistics Support for Super Typhoon Julian Response

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    MANILA, Philippines  –  

    In response to a request from the Philippine government, the United States government intends to provide Php28 million ($500,000) in humanitarian supplies and logistical support to communities affected by Super Typhoon Julian in Northern Luzon.

    Through this funding, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) will provide emergency shelter and water, sanitation, and hygiene support for more than 4,000 households, or 16,000 people, in typhoon-affected areas.

    Since October 7, the U.S. Department of Defense has mobilized multiple military assets to provide logistics support to the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Office of Civil Defense in transporting humanitarian supplies from Manila to Batanes.

    “My heart goes out to everyone affected by Super Typhoon Julian, especially those living in the most devastated areas, including hard-to-reach Batanes,” U.S. Ambassador MaryKay Carlson said.  “The United States is working closely with our Filipino friends, partners, and allies to provide life-saving assistance to enable those in disaster areas to recover as quickly as possible.” 

    This assistance builds on the U.S. government’s previous support to Philippine government’s disaster response efforts, such as during the massive flooding in Mindanao in February and Super Typhoon Carina in July. 

     Since 2010, the U.S. government has invested Php21.8 billion ($388 million) for disaster response, preparedness, and early recovery in the Philippines.  USAID works year-round to help communities build resilience in preparing for, and responding to, the increasing frequency and intensity of natural disasters.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Gov. Kemp Hosts Final Roundtable on Litigation Reform

    Source: US State of Georgia

    Atlanta, GA – Governor Brian P. Kemp hosted leaders from Georgia businesses and policymakers today for a roundtable discussion on civil litigation and its impact on the state’s economic wellbeing. This was the final of three roundtable events announced by Governor Kemp for this Fall. Today’s session at the headquarters of the iconic Georgia brand Waffle House provided further insight from major employers on how best to approach this topic in the upcoming legislative session. Participants on the panel included representatives from 12 Georgia businesses across various industries.

    “As the No. 1 state for business for 11 consecutive years, we have always made it a priority to foster a pro-business environment that empowers job creators to create opportunity for the hardworking people of Georgia,” said Governor Brian Kemp. “The unfortunate reality is our current litigation climate has led to increased costs for consumers and a higher barrier to entry for those who want to create jobs in our state. As we prepare to address this issue, these listening sessions have allowed us to hear from a diverse group of stakeholders who have shared thoughtful input that will inform our next steps.”

    Governor Kemp hosted the first roundtable on the state’s civil litigation climate in August, hearing from small business leaders on the direct impacts of ballooning civil lawsuits on their operations. This was followed by a roundtable on healthcare civil litigation issues in September, during which healthcare leaders shared the challenges they face in providing care for patients in the current legal climate. The first step in a multi-phase effort to address the issue of litigation reform was taken in the 2024 legislative session with the passage of the Data Analysis for Tort Reform Act, sponsored by the governor’s Floor Leader Rep. Will Wade, which created a mechanism to gather needed information that will guide next steps. Both chambers of the General Assembly also worked on legislation during the 2024 session specific to the issue of civil litigation, including SB 426 and SB 83. Both the Senate and House of Representatives will remain valued partners in the broader effort to address soaring costs due to civil litigation.

    “My priority continues to be removing barriers and unnecessary burdens for businesses across Georgia,” said Lieutenant Governor Burt Jones. “We need to focus on sensible legislation addressing lawsuit reform that will grow Georgia’s workforce and encourage businesses to hire hardworking citizens. I want to thank Governor Brian Kemp for holding these listening sessions so we can hear input from all stakeholders leading up to the 2025 session, when we will address this issue.”

    “I want to thank Governor Kemp for hosting this series of policy roundtable discussions with stakeholders across the state,” said Speaker of the House Jon Burns. “As we continue to gather facts and consider sensible measures to keep Georgia the number one place for business, we recognize there is still more work to be done in order to balance the scales in our courtrooms and level the playing field for every Georgian and our thriving business community.”

    “When I think about lawsuit abuse reform, I think about the thousands of Georgia families who will be stuck in food deserts and struggle to meet their basic needs when these stores are forced to close,” said Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner John King. “I think about the small business owners, who cannot afford their insurance because they must pay for the criminal actions of people who may come to their business. As we continue to discuss the impacts that lawsuit abuse reform will have on our state, and the necessity for its passage this upcoming session, I want us to remember who and what is really at stake.”

    In his remarks opening the roundtable discussion, Governor Kemp discussed the challenges the current climate has placed on Georgia’s economic wellbeing while reiterating his commitment to hearing from all sides on this issue.

    “On behalf of Waffle House, I’d like to thank Governor Kemp, Lt. Governor Jones, Speaker Burns, Commissioner King and the members of the General Assembly for their commitment to addressing the current civil litigation crisis in Georgia,” said Joe Rogers III, CEO of Waffle House. “We look forward to working together on common sense reforms that will restore balance and level the playing field for all Georgians.“

    Participants discussed the impacts of Georgia’s civil litigation climate and its effect on insurance rates and availability and their impact on rising costs for businesses and consumers across the state. Easing the economic burden on Georgians is a top priority of both Governor Kemp and the General Assembly, and that includes taking action to stabilize costs as families continue dealing with the effects of record inflation.

    Hosted by Waffle House, Governor Kemp is grateful to all who participated in today’s roundtable as well as the entire listening session tour. The governor looks forward to continued engagement on this issue as the legislative session approaches.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Unprecedented Response to Hurricane Helene Continues as State, Local and Federal Resources Work to Help those Impacted in Western North Carolina

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: Unprecedented Response to Hurricane Helene Continues as State, Local and Federal Resources Work to Help those Impacted in Western North Carolina

    Unprecedented Response to Hurricane Helene Continues as State, Local and Federal Resources Work to Help those Impacted in Western North Carolina
    mseets

    Today, Governor Roy Cooper held a briefing with FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell to provide updates on North Carolina’s unprecedented response to Hurricane Helene. They were joined by Adjutant General of the North Carolina National Guard Major General Todd Hunt, North Carolina Director of Emergency Management Will Ray, NCDOT Secretary Joey Hopkins, NCDHHS Secretary Kody Kinsley and NCDEQ Secretary Mary Penny Kelley to share an update as response and recovery operations continue in Western North Carolina. 

    “Hurricane Helene was a powerful reminder of nature’s might, but it also revealed the unbreakable spirit of our people,” said Governor Cooper. “In the face of adversity, we have seen neighbors helping neighbors, volunteers stepping up, and first responders risking their lives to ensure our safety. This has been a massive, unprecedented state, local and federal response and I am grateful to all of those working tirelessly. Your bravery and selflessness embody the very essence of our community.”

    Goods and services continue to flow into impacted communities through state, federal and local partners.  The North Carolina National Guard and the Joint Task Force- North Carolina have assisted thousands of people who needed rescue, evacuation and other assistance.

    North Carolina National Guard and Military Response

    More than 3,000 Soldiers and Airmen are now working in Western North Carolina. Joint Task Force- North Carolina, the task force led by the North Carolina National Guard is made up of Soldiers and Airmen from 12 different states, two different XVIII Airborne Corps units from Ft. Liberty, a unit from Ft. Campbell’s 101st Airborne Division, and numerous civilian entities are working side-by-side to get the much-needed help to the citizens in western North Carolina.

    National Guard and military personnel are operating more than 40 helicopters and more than 1,200 specialized vehicles in Western North Carolina to facilitate these missions. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is helping to assess water and wastewater plants and dams. Residents can track the status of the public water supply in their area through a website launched on Saturday.

    FEMA Assistance

    More than $60 million in FEMA Individual Assistance funds have been paid so far to Western NC disaster survivors and more than 134,000 people have registered for Individual Assistance. Approximately 2,600 people are now housed in hotels through FEMA’s Transitional Sheltering Assistance. Federal partners have delivered approximately 9.78 million liters of water and approximately 7.7 million meals in North Carolina to support both responders and people living in the affected communities.

    More than 900 FEMA staff are in the state to help with the western North Carolina relief effort. In addition to search and rescue and providing commodities, they are meeting with disaster survivors in shelters and neighborhoods to provide rapid access to relief resources. They can be identified by their FEMA logo apparel and federal government identification.

    The Major Disaster Declaration requested by Governor Cooper and granted by President Biden now includes 27 North Carolina counties (Alexander, Alleghany, Ashe, Avery, Buncombe, Burke, Caldwell, Catawba, Clay, Cleveland, Gaston, Haywood, Henderson, Jackson, Lincoln, Macon, Madison, McDowell, Mecklenburg, Mitchell, Polk, Rutherford, Swain, Transylvania, Watauga, Wilkes and Yancey) and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians.

    North Carolinians can apply for Individual Assistance by calling 1-800-621-3362 from 7am to 11pm daily or by visiting www.disasterassistance.gov, or by downloading the FEMA app. FEMA may be able to help with serious needs, displacement, temporary lodging, basic home repair costs, personal property loss or other disaster-caused needs.

    Help from Other States

    More than 1,300 responders from 35 state and local agencies have performed 118 missions supporting the response and recovery efforts through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC). This includes public health nurses, emergency management teams supporting local governments, veterinarians, teams with search dogs and more.

    Beware of Misinformation

    North Carolina Emergency Management and local officials are cautioning the public about false Helene reports and misinformation being shared on social media. NCEM has launched a fact versus rumor response webpage to provide factual information in the wake of this storm. FEMA also has a rumor response webpage.

    Food, Water and Commodity Points of Distribution

    Efforts continue to provide food, water and basic necessities to residents in affected communities, using both ground resources and air drops from the NC National Guard. More than 20,000 hot meals a day are being prepared and served by mobile kitchens. Food, water and commodity points of distribution are open throughout western North Carolina. For information on these sites in your community, visit your local emergency management and local government social media and websites or visit ncdps.gov/Helene.

    Missing Persons

    To report a missing person or request non-emergency support, please call NC 211 or 1-888-892-1162 if calling from out-of-state. NC 211 also has a registry page for missing persons and welfare check requests.

    Shelters

    A total of 17 shelters are open in Western North Carolina serving 715 people and 102 pets.

    Storm Damage Cleanup

    If your home has damages and you need assistance with clean up, please call Crisis Cleanup for access to volunteer organizations that can assist you at 844-965-1386.

    Power Outages

    Across Western North Carolina, more than 86,000 customers remain without power as of Tuesday, down from a peak of more than 1 million. Overall power outage numbers will fluctuate up and down as power crews temporarily take circuits or substations offline to make repairs and restore additional customers.

    Road Closures

    Travel remains dangerous, with hundreds of roads closed. Many of these roads are primary routes connecting the region. As connectivity and reporting measures improve, these number may increase.

    NCDOT is asking people to avoid unnecessary travel to or in Western North Carolina. NCDOT has posted at ncdot.gov an interstate detour map for travelers to avoid western N.C. NCDOT currently has more than 2,100 employees and 1,100 pieces of equipment working on approximately 4,700 damaged road sites.

    Fatalities

    Eighty-nine storm-related deaths have been confirmed in North Carolina by the Office of Chief Medical Examiner. We expect that this number will continue to rise over the coming days. The North Carolina Office of the Chief Medical Examiner will continue to confirm numbers twice daily. If you have an emergency or believe that someone is in danger, please call 911. To report that you have been unable to reach a person in Western North Carolina, please call 211.

    Volunteers and Donations

    Due to dangerous road conditions and the need to maintain open routes for emergency operations, travel to Western North Carolina is strongly discouraged. Instead, consider the following options for donations and volunteer opportunities:

    • If you would like to donate to the North Carolina Disaster Relief Fund, visit nc.gov/donate. Donations will help to support local nonprofits working on the ground.
    • For information on volunteer opportunities, please visit nc.gov/volunteernc

    Additional Assistance

    There is no right or wrong way to feel in response to the trauma of a hurricane. If you have been impacted by the storm and need someone to talk to, call or text the Disaster Distress Helpline at 1-800-985-5990. Help is also available to anyone, anytime in English or Spanish through a call, text or chat to 988. Learn more at 988Lifeline.org.

    If you are seeking a representative from the North Carolina Joint Information Center, please email ncempio@ncdps.gov or call 919-825-2599.

    For general information, access to resources, or answers to frequently asked questions, please visit ncdps.gov/helene.

    If you are seeking information on resources for recovery help for a resident impacted from the storm, please email IArecovery@ncdps.gov.

    ###

    Oct 9, 2024

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NSF congratulates laureates of the 2024 Nobel Prize in chemistry

    Source: US Government research organizations

    Researchers have enabled the design and prediction of proteins, the building blocks of life

    The U.S. National Science Foundation congratulates David Baker, Demis Hassabis and John Jumper on being awarded the 2024 Nobel Prize in chemistry. Baker and his colleagues revolutionized protein design enabling the creation of protein structures never seen in nature, many of which have potential as therapeutics or treatments, new materials or in other applications. Hassabis and Jumper similarly revolutionized protein prediction with the creation of AlphaFold software, enabling the determination of a protein’s structure from its amino acid sequence alone. NSF is immensely proud of the decades of fundamental research support and infrastructure investments that led to these advances.

    NSF has supported the Protein Data Bank (PDB), the critical repository for structure data for large biological molecules that enabled the work of all the awardees, for nearly five decades. PDB now contains over 200,000 structures from proteins to DNA and RNA. Baker used this library as a knowledge base for his first protein structure design algorithms which became part of the Rosetta family of tools — and later his protein design tools — for which his portion of the Nobel Prize is being awarded. The PDB also provided the training library for AlphaFold, a deep learning, artificial intelligence-powered software designed by Hassabis, Jumper and the DeepMind team for which they earned half of the prize.

    In addition to its support of PDB, NSF has continuously supported Baker’s career since his Young Investigator award in 1994. The interdisciplinary nature of the work and the potential impact of protein design is exemplified by the broad nature of NSF support received by Baker that has come from NSF Directorates for Biological Sciences, Engineering, Mathematical and Physical Sciences and Computer and Information Science and Engineering.

    In 2003, Baker and colleagues were able to design the first completely novel globular protein with atomic level accuracy. In 2008, Baker and colleagues reported the first design of an enzyme — a protein that initiates a reaction in a cell. Several of the proteins designed by Baker and his team are already moving toward being used to treat Celiac disease and cancers.

    “Protein design holds transformative potential to address societal challenges by enabling the discovery of once unimaginable structures,” said NSF Director Sethuraman Panchanathan. “Decades of federal investments in fundamental research and infrastructure, combined with industry innovation, have yielded tools that significantly impact everyday life. Baker’s work continues to break new ground — as he recently received 5,000 hours of computing time on NSF’s Frontera supercomputer through the NSF-led National AI Research Resource pilot — to create even more advanced biological models.”

    NSF’s support of Baker also has helped enable a wide range of broader societal impacts, including the training of a legion of students and fellows that are now contributing to the field of biotechnology and synthetic biomaterials in academia and industry around the world. In addition to those he trained directly, Baker’s early and long-standing commitment to open access and sharing policies fostered development of a broad community of developers and users that have accelerated the pace of discovery and innovation in the field.

    Select NSF awards

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Garamendi Introduces Bill to Expand Eligibility for Early Education

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman John Garamendi – Representing California’s 3rd Congressional District

    WASHINGTON, DC—In recognition of Head Start Awareness Month, U.S. Representative John Garamendi (D-CA-08) recently introduced legislation to expand eligibility for Head Start, the country’s largest federal early education program. Head Start’s current eligibility is primarily tied to the federal poverty line, with limited categorical exceptions. This has left behind many families in California who do not fall below the federal poverty line, but experience poverty due to the disproportionately high cost of living.

    The “Expanding Head Start Eligibility Act of 2024” (H.R.9825) would address this gap by amending the Head Start Act to include families receiving Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC), and federal housing assistance as eligible. Specifically, this legislation would expand categorical eligibility to WIC and federal housing assistance. It would also codify existing categorical eligibility to Head Start for TANF, SSI, and, most recently, SNAP, to prevent a future administration from revoking this inclusion.

    “While the right-wing extremists behind Project 2025 threaten to eliminate Head Start entirely, I am working alongside Head Start administrators to expand access to this critical early education program,” said Garamendi. “By expanding eligibility for Head Start, this legislation ensures that our most vulnerable children and families are no longer left behind in early education. Every child living in poverty should have the opportunity learn and thrive, and this legislation brings us closer to realizing that goal.”

    “Head Start California is proud to support the Expanding Head Start Eligibility Act of 2024,” said Melanee Cottrill, Executive Director of Head Start California. “Many families are eligible for a myriad of other Federal assistance programs but are left out of Head Start. This bill would level the playing field by allowing more of our most vulnerable children and families to apply for Head Start services. It would also stabilize enrollment in parts of California that are experiencing under-enrollment due to demographic shifts and the State’s implementation of universal pre-kindergarten for four-year-olds. We appreciate that this bill would maintain local control of enrollment, allowing individual programs to continue determining which eligible children and families the program is most suited to serve.”

    “E Center is proud to support the Head Start Eligibility Act of 2024.  E Center firmly believes that families that qualify for and rely on supplemental food and housing programs should qualify for Head Start Services.  This bill recognizes that families in need of these basic necessities are also in need of quality childcare services providing support to families as they strive towards self-sufficiency.  Childcare is an essential need for low income families as they work towards stability,” said E Center.

    Since its inception in 1965, the federally funded Head Start program has provided over 39 million children from low-income families with high-quality early education and the skills they need to succeed in school and beyond. Additionally, these locally-run programs partner with families and communities to provide children and their families with health and nutrition services. Nationwide, Head Start serves over 800,000 children annually, including nearly 95,000 in California.

    Endorsed by:  Head Start California, NEA, AFT, AASA, California County Superintendents, National Center on Housing and Child Welfare, Association of Educational Service Agencies, Washington State Association of Head Start and ECEAP, Oregon Head Start Association

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murphy Seeks DOT Guidance To Improve Roadway Safety And Address Traffic Fatalities In Letter To Secretary Buttigieg

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Connecticut – Chris Murphy

    October 09, 2024

    HARTFORD—U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) on Wednesday sent a letter to U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg asking for details on the Department of Transportation’s (DOT) efforts to improve roadway safety. Murphy referenced the recent tragic deaths of Connecticut Trooper First Class Aaron Pelletier and ConnDOT worker Andrew DiDomenico, as well as his own Walk Across Connecticut, where he saw dangerous driving conditions firsthand. Expressing concern over rising traffic fatalities in Connecticut, Murphy requested additional information on specific measures being implemented, strategies to address dangerous driving behaviors, and how federal and state governments can collaborate to enhance roadway safety.

    “There were 169 traffic fatalities in Connecticut during the first half of 2024,” Murphy wrote. “This year, Connecticut has also been devastated by several high-profile roadway fatalities. In May, Connecticut Trooper First Class Aaron Pelletier was struck and killed in the line of duty while working at a traffic stop on Interstate 84. In July, a Connecticut Department of Transportation worker, Andrew DiDomenico, died after being struck by a vehicle on Interstate 91. While these two accidents garnered significant attention across the state, there are many more families dealing with the pain of losing a loved one in a traffic accident.”

    Murphy continued: “My office and I regularly hear from constituents about roadway safety. The primary issues identified are drivers traveling at high speed, ignoring traffic signs, and driving while distracted.  During my annual walk across Connecticut, I spoke with a group of road construction workers who told me that they are noticing an uptick in dangerous driving behavior. I also regularly meet with a group of middle school children who advise me on a range of policy issues, and in our conversations these students regularly who tell me how reckless driving can make their walk to school scary and more dangerous. While I understand there is no perfect policy solution or initiative that will eliminate traffic accidents completely, I am writing to inquire what more can be done to protect people on our roadways and seek your Department’s expert opinion on best practices to decrease roadway fatalities.”

    Full text of the letter is available HERE and below:

    Dear Secretary Buttigieg,

    I am writing to inquire about the Department of Transportation’s work on highway safety. Unfortunately, as you are aware, there were 169 traffic fatalities in Connecticut during the first half of 2024. This year, Connecticut has also been devastated by several high-profile roadway fatalities. In May, Connecticut Trooper First Class Aaron Pelletier was struck and killed in the line of duty while working at a traffic stop on Interstate 84. In July, a Connecticut Department of Transportation worker, Andrew DiDomenico, died after being struck by a vehicle on Interstate 91. While these two accidents garnered significant attention across the state, there are many more families dealing with the pain of losing a loved one in a traffic accident.

    My office and I regularly hear from constituents about roadway safety. The primary issues identified are drivers traveling at high speed, ignoring traffic signs, and driving while distracted.  During my annual walk across Connecticut, I spoke with a group of road construction workers who told me that they are noticing an uptick in dangerous driving behavior. I also regularly meet with a group of middle school children who advise me on a range of policy issues, and in our conversations these students regularly who tell me how reckless driving can make their walk to school scary and more dangerous.

    While I understand there is no perfect policy solution or initiative that will eliminate traffic accidents completely, I am writing to inquire what more can be done to protect people on our roadways and seek your Department’s expert opinion on best practices to decrease roadway fatalities. To that end, I am requesting your answers and input on the following questions:

    1. What specific measures is the Department of Transportation implementing under the National Roadway Safety Strategy to address the alarming rise in traffic fatalities, particularly in Northeast states like Connecticut?
    2. What strategies are being developed to combat issues such as high-speed driving, ignoring traffic signs, and distracted driving? Are there any new initiatives on these issues forthcoming?
    3. Has there been an increase in accidents involving young or less experienced drivers? What targeted programs or campaigns does the Department plan to introduce to improve their safety on the roads?
    4. How is the Department of Transportation engaging with local communities, such as schools and construction sites, to gather insights on roadway safety concerns and to promote safer driving practices?
    5. How can state governments like Connecticut better collaborate with the federal government to enhance roadway safety and address specific local concerns?
    6. What additional actions can Congress take to better enable your agency to address this issue?

    Thank you for your attention to this important matter. I look forward to continuing to work with you to build safer roadways that improve safety and the travel experience for the American people.

    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: How the ‘social cost of carbon’ measurement can hide economic inequalities and mask climate suffering

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Majid Hashemi, Adjunct assistant professor, Economics Department, Queen’s University, Ontario

    The social cost of carbon (SCC) is an essential tool for climate decision-making around the world. SCC is essentially a large cost-benefit calculation that helps policymakers compare the benefits of reducing carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions to the society-wide costs of continued use.

    The “right” SCC has long been an open debate, with several studies attempting to estimate it using a range of methods. In fact, there are more than 323 studies that provide varying SCC estimates in one form or another.

    Most studies focus on the global level working with aggregate SCC values from countries around the world. This global value, however, hides an important nuance. When one looks at individual SCC values at the country level a clear picture emerges. Poorer countries have proportionally lower SCCs than richer ones.



    Read more:
    Don’t applaud the COP28 climate summit’s loss and damage fund deal just yet – here’s what’s missing

    To put this in context, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends a global social cost of carbon at US$208 per ton of CO2 for 2024 (average of recent studies).

    The Government of Canada uses the same EPA value after exchange rate. When this global estimate (i.e., the aggregate damages to the entire planet) is broken down to country-specific estimates (i.e., the damages to a particular country), it reveals SCCs of less than US$1 for poor countries.

    Does this imply that poorer countries bear lower costs due to climate change impacts? Not at all, in fact the reality is quite the opposite. Studies reveal that the damages associated with climate change are proportionally higher for lower-income countries. These damages are often hidden in SCC values in ways that reveal much about the inequalities of our modern world.

    Why is the social cost of carbon lower?

    The answer is the modelling approach.

    To estimate the social cost of carbon, a complicated model integrates multidisciplinary scientific evidence into a single framework to analyze climate change damages. These models incorporate “damage functions” that account for various pathways through which climate change impacts societies.

    Pathways include some of the things that we can measure, such as reduced agricultural productivity, increased energy expenditures for space heating and cooling, flood-related property damages and premature death due to extreme temperatures and weather events.

    Despite the comprehensive nature of these climate damage models, a critical disparity remains. The monetary value of damages is significantly smaller in poorer countries than in richer ones. Again, this does not mean the impacts are less severe; instead, it reflects the lower overall economic value of losses in these regions because of their lower overall income levels.

    One of the three studies referenced by the U.S. EPA’s guidance on SCC finds climate-change-related agriculture damages and premature deaths account for 45 per cent and 49 per cent of the total global damages, respectively. In poorer countries these percentages are likely much lower given both a comparatively undervalued agricultural sector and lower ability to pay for life saving equipment.

    Simply put, extreme global economic inequality hides the very real losses and damages experienced by many in poorer countries. This is because the comparative wealth gap between them and richer countries results in a lower relative SCC value.

    What does this mean?

    To a national policymaker, an almost zero SCC means that climate change-related projects will likely compete neck-and-neck with basic-needs projects (e.g., addressing malnutrition). From the global perspective, this leaves poorer countries with little incentive to allocate resources to the fight against climate change. Poor countries may even see their investments in such efforts as nothing more than donations to richer countries.

    Indeed, from such a simple SCC-based perspective any CO2 emissions reduction step a poorer country takes could result in a higher SCC value in richer countries — a value which they are likely to receive very little of. What can be done to address this imbalance?



    Read more:
    How COP28 failed the world’s small islands

    One proposed solution has been to use the differences in SCC values between poorer and richer countries to inform international climate negotiations on the implied historical responsibility and liability, commonly known as the loss and damage funds.

    Additionally, international development assistance to climate adaptation funds should be more equitably aligned with SCC imbalances to ensure that richer countries — which will benefit more from emission reduction efforts — help bear the burden in supporting poorer countries’ adaptation and mitigation efforts.

    While methods for estimating SCC values have become more sophisticated in recent years, addressing the global-versus-country-specific imbalance requires a combination of financial transfers and practical co-operation between richer and poorer nations. This will help ensure that the costs and benefits of global CO2 emissions reductions are shared more equally, accounting for both ethical and economic considerations.

    Majid Hashemi 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. How the ‘social cost of carbon’ measurement can hide economic inequalities and mask climate suffering – https://theconversation.com/how-the-social-cost-of-carbon-measurement-can-hide-economic-inequalities-and-mask-climate-suffering-233041

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Hurricane Milton: Flooded industrial sites and toxic chemical releases are a silent, growing threat

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By James R. Elliott, Professor of Sociology, Rice University

    An industrial storage tank overturned by Hurricane Helene in Asheville, N.C., shows the power of fast-moving floodwater. Sean Rayford/Getty Images

    Hundreds of industrial facilities with toxic pollutants are in Hurricane Milton’s path as it heads toward Florida, less than two weeks after Hurricane Helene flooded communities across the Southeast.

    Milton, expected to make landfall as a major hurricane late on Oct. 9, is bearing down on boat and spa factories along Florida’s west-central coast, along with the rubber, plastics and fiberglass manufacturers that supply them. Many of these facilities use tens of thousands of registered contaminants each year, including toluene, styrene and other chemicals known to have adverse effects on the central nervous system with prolonged exposure.

    Farther inland, hundreds more manufacturers that use and house hazardous chemicals onsite lie along the Interstate 4 and Interstate 75 corridors and their feeder roads. And many are in the path of the storm’s intense winds and heavy rainfall.

    Black dots indicate facilities in EPA’s 2022 Toxic Release Inventory within Hurricane Milton’s projected impact zone.
    Rice University Center for Coastal Futures and Adaptive Resilience, CC BY-ND

    Helene’s heavy rainfall in late September 2024 flooded industrial sites across the Southeast. A retired nuclear power plant just south of Cedar Key, Florida, was flooded by Helene’s storm surge.

    In disasters like these, the industrial damage can unfold over days, and residents may not hear about releases of toxic chemicals into water or the air until days or weeks later, if they find out at all.

    Yet pollution releases are common.

    After Hurricane Ian broadsided Florida’s western coast in 2022, runoff that included hazardous materials from damaged storage tanks and local fertilizer mining facilities, in addition to millions of gallons of wastewater, was visible from space, spilling across the coastal wetlands into the Gulf of Mexico. A year earlier, Hurricane Ida triggered more than 2,000 reported chemical spills.

    During Hurricane Harvey in 2017, floodwater surrounded chemical facilities near Houston. Some caught fire as cooling systems failed, releasing huge volumes or pollutants into the air. Emergency responders and residents, who didn’t know what risks they might face, blamed the chemicals for causing respiratory illnesses.

    Many types of toxic material can spread, settle and change the long-term health and environmental safety of surrounding communities – often with little notice to residents. Our team of environmental sociologists and anthropologists has mapped hazardous industrial sites across the country and paired them with hurricanes’ projected impact maps to help communities hold nearby facilities accountable.

    Major polluters on Gulf Coast at high risk”

    The risks from industrial facilities are most obvious along the U.S. Gulf Coast, where many major petrochemical complexes are clustered in harm’s way. These refineries, factories and storage facilities are often built along rivers or bays for easy shipping access.

    But those rivers can also bring storm surge flooding that can raise the ocean by several feet during hurricanes. The storm surge from Helene was over 10 feet above ground level in Florida’s Big Bend and over 6 feet in Tampa Bay. With Milton, forecasters warning of a 10- to 15-foot storm surge at Tampa Bay.

    A boom surrounds flooded railcars to try to contain leaks at a chemical plant in Braithwaite, La., after Hurricane Isaac in 2012.
    AP Photo/David J. Phillip

    A recent study found evidence of two to three times more pollution releases during hurricanes in the Gulf of Mexico than during normal weather from 2005 to 2020.

    The effects of these pollution releases fall disproportionately on low-income communities and people of color, further exacerbating environmental health risks.

    Why residents may not hear about toxic releases

    The statistics are disconcerting, yet they get little attention. That is because hazardous releases remain largely invisible due to limited disclosure requirements and scant public information. Even emergency responders often don’t know exactly which hazardous chemicals they are facing in emergency situations.

    The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency requires major polluters to file only very general information about chemicals and on-site risks in their risk management plans. Some large-scale fuel storage facilities, such as those holding liquefied natural gas, are not even required to do that.

    These risk management plans outline “worst-case” scenarios and are supposed to be publicly accessible. But, in reality, we and others have found them difficult to access, heavily redacted and housed in federal reading rooms with limited access. The reason local officials and national scientific review panels often give for the secrecy is to protect the facilities from terrorist attack.

    Oil storage tanks and industrial facilities line the Houston Ship Channel, which is vulnerable to storm surge from Gulf of Mexico hurricanes.
    AP Photo/David J. Phillip

    Adding to this opacity is the fact that many states – including those along the Gulf – suspend restrictions on pollution releases during emergency declarations. Meanwhile, real-time incident notifications from the National Response Center – the federal government’s repository for all chemical discharges into the environment – typically lag by a week or more,

    We believe this limited public information on rising chemical threats from our changing climate should be front-page news every hurricane season. Communities should be aware of the risks of hosting vulnerable industrial infrastructure, particularly as rising global temperatures increase the risk of extreme downpours and powerful hurricanes.

    Mapping the risks nationwide to raise awareness

    To help communities understand their risks, our team at Rice University’s new Center for Coastal Futures and Adaptive Resilience investigates how industrial communities in flood-prone areas nationwide can better adapt to such threats, socially as well as technologically.

    Our interactive map shows where elevated future flood risks threaten to inundate major polluters that we identify using the EPA’s Toxic Release Inventory.

    The U.S. has several hot spots with clusters of flood-prone polluters. Houston’s Ship Channel, Chicago’s waterfront steel industries and the harbors at Los Angeles and New York/New Jersey are among the biggest.

    Three of the biggest hot spots, where large numbers of industrial facilities with toxic materials face elevated future flood risks, are in the Northeast, the northwestern Gulf Coast and the southern end of the Great Lakes.
    Rice University Center for Coastal Futures and Adaptive Resilience, CC BY-ND

    But, as Helene revealed, there can also be great concern in less obvious spots. Inland, particularly in the mountains, runoff can quickly turn normally tame rivers into fast-rising torrents. The French Broad River at Asheville, North Carolina, rose about 12 feet in 12 hours during Helene and set a new flood stage record.

    When hurricanes and tropical storms are headed for the U.S., our interactive maps show where major polluters are located in the storm’s projected cone of impact. The maps identify hazardous flood-prone facilities down to the address, anywhere in the country.

    Knowledge is the first step

    Knowing where these sites are located is only the first step. Often, it’s up to communities themselves, many of them already overexposed and historically underserved, to raise concerns and demand strategies for mitigating the health, economic and environmental risks that industrial sites at risk of flooding and other damage can pose.

    These discussions can’t wait until a disaster is on the way. By knowing where these risks may be, communities can take steps now to build a safer future.

    This article, originally published Sept. 30, has been updated with Hurricane Milton.

    James R. Elliott receives funding from the National Science Foundation and the National Renewable Energy Lab.

    Dominic Boyer receives funding from the National Science Foundation, NOAA and Texas Sea Grant.

    Phylicia Lee Brown has nothing to disclose.

    – ref. Hurricane Milton: Flooded industrial sites and toxic chemical releases are a silent, growing threat – https://theconversation.com/hurricane-milton-flooded-industrial-sites-and-toxic-chemical-releases-are-a-silent-growing-threat-239977

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Verizon está listo y ofrece consejos a medida que el huracán Milton se acerca a Florida

    Source: Verizon

    Headline: Verizon está listo y ofrece consejos a medida que el huracán Milton se acerca a Florida

    Alpharetta, GA – A medida que el huracán Milton se acerca a la costa de Florida, Verizon sigue comprometido a mantener conectados a la comunidad y al personal de primeros auxilios. Además de una red reforzada diseñada para soportar las condiciones más extremas, los ingenieros de Verizon tomaron firmes medidas de preparación para garantizar que haya recursos disponibles para una respuesta rápida.

    “En Verizon, nuestra principal prioridad es apoyar a las comunidades a las que servimos. Nuestra capacidad de respuesta y apoyoen tiempos de crisis realmente importan”, dijo la presidenta de Atlantic South Market de Verizon, Leigh Anne Lanier. “Desde familias hasta empresas y socorristas, estamos aquí para brindarles unservicio confiable en el que pueden contar. Nuestro equipo está trabajando incansablemente para mantener a nuestros clientes conectados ahora y en los próximos días.”

    Después del huracán Helene, las comunicaciones por satélite han demostrado ser una importante herramienta de comunicación cuando los servicios terrestres se han visto afectados. Asegúrese de que su teléfono esté listo con anticipación. Los clientes con un iPhone 14 o posterior deben actualizar a iOS 18 para asegurarse de poder enviar mensajes de texto o conectarse con servicios de emergencia vía satélite. Y para aquellos con dispositivos Google Pixel 9, la mensajería de emergencia también está disponible vía satélite. Ambos sistemas operativos cuentan con demos disponibles que permiten a los clientes practicar con antelación la mensajería vía satélite. Obtenga más información aquí.

    Las redes de Verizon están preparadas

    Las redes de Verizon están preparadas para mantener la conectividad incluso ante condiciones climáticas extremas. Con redundancia integrada en rutas y componentes críticos, la red de Verizon está diseñada con el objetivo de resistir condiciones climáticas adversas. Los ingenieros de Verizon se han preparado realizando controles exhaustivos, además de garantizar que los sistemas de respaldo, como baterías y generadores, estén operandoy cargados. Verizon también ha instalado enlaces en los Centros de Operaciones de Emergencia del área para permitir una comunicación perfecta con agencias locales, estatales y gubernamentales para garantizar una restauración rápida.

    En preparación para posibles operaciones de recuperación de la red, Verizon ha puesto en marcha una flota de soluciones de redes portátiles, incluidos activos de redes portátiles satelitales, que proporcionan conectividad crucial en escenarios donde las conexiones de fibra se ven comprometidas, así como generadores móviles para ayudar a las comunidade con una pérdida de energía comercial.

    Verizon Frontline está listo y preparado para ayudar a los socorristas en cualquier capacidad

    El equipo de respuesta a crisis de primera línea de Verizon está listo para ayudar a garantizar que las agencias de seguridad pública en la primera línea de cualquier desastre tengan las capacidades de comunicaciones críticas necesarias para lograr sus misiones. Este equipo, compuesto principalmente por ex socorristas y personal militar, se dedica exclusivamente a apoyar a los clientes de seguridad pública durante emergencias sin costo para las agencias que reciben la ayuda.

    En los primeros nueve meses de 2024, el equipo de respuesta a crisis de primera línea de Verizon respondió a más de 1000 solicitudes de soporte de comunicaciones de misión crítica de más de 500 agencias diferentes en 46 estados.

    Estar preparado es esencial para apoyar a las empresas y comunidades locales

    Al reconocer el papel fundamental de la conectividad en la continuidad del negocio, Verizon Business ofrece un conjunto de soluciones adaptadas para operaciones fluidas durante emergencias. Las empresas y las organizaciones gubernamentales necesitan tener un plan de acción adecuado. Las acciones sugeridas incluyen:

    • Mitigar las interrupciones para los clientes: Es importante pensar en lo que se necesita para garantizar un servicio continuo a sus clientes y qué software y equipo necesita su empresa para continuar con sus operaciones. Haga una lista detallada, que incluya contratos de servicio e información de garantía, y todos los números de teléfono pertinentes de las autoridades locales, empresas de servicios públicos, proveedores y vendedores.
    • La tecnología adecuada tiene un impacto: asegúrese de tener la tecnología adecuada para satisfacer las necesidades de conectividad de su empresa, suponiendo que necesite mudarse de su ubicación principal.
    • Los contactos y los documentos son clave: asegúrese de tener la información de contacto actualizada y disponible para todos los empleados, incluida la información del hogar para los trabajadores remotos y la información de las sucursales para las oficinas satélite.
    • Pruebe, pruebe y vuelva a probar: pruebe las redes primarias y de respaldo y refuerce las áreas débiles.
    • Mantenga un registro del equipo: asegúrese de que los empleados que trabajan desde casa hayan documentado todo el equipo corporativo que se utiliza para trabajar desde casa en caso de daño o pérdida.
    • Tenga un plan de respaldo: asegúrese de que existan planes de respaldo para cambiar el trabajo en caso de que los empleados que trabajan desde casa en un área afectada por la tormenta tengan que evacuar sus hogares o su hogar se quede sin energía comercial.

    ¿Estás listo para el huracán?

    El equipo de Verizon trabaja todo el año para garantizar que los clientes permanezcan conectados con sus seres queridos y las actividades que les brindan comodidad durante un desastre. Mientras los residentes se preparan para mantenerse conectados y entretenidos, considere estos consejos:

    • Abastecerse de fuentes de carga como baterías para linternas y radios o cargadores de dispositivos. Vaya un paso más allá y cargue sus dispositivos que pueden actuar como cargadores para otros dispositivos, como computadoras portátiles y centrales eléctricas. ¡No olvide tener los cables!
    • Descargue películas, libros, aplicaciones y juegos en caso de un corte de energía. O reúna juegos de mesa, juegos de cartas y rompecabezas para prescindir de dispositivos.
    • Localice documentos importantes que pueda necesitar más adelante, así como fotografías y artículos sentimentales.
    • Planificar comidas no perecederas. Tenga a mano algunos ingredientes no perecederos, como un abrelatas manual y otros utensilios de cocina.
    • Tome algunas velas, mantas, almohadas o cualquier cosa que haga que su espacio seguro contra huracanes sea cómodo.
    • Lea los consejos de preparación para huracanes de la Cruz Roja Americana
    • Agregar nuestra página verificar estado de la red o va a la aplicación My Verizon y haga clic en Temas de soporte (Support Topics) para notificarnos si experimenta algún problema con la red o para verificar si hay algún problema conocido en s u área. Ingrese su ubicación, seleccione el tipo de problema de servicio y le proporcionaremos una actualización del estado en tiempo real.

    Más información

    Visite el Centro de recursos de emergencia en línea de Verizon, verizon.com/about/news/emergency-resource-center, para obtener más detalles sobre las capacidades de respuesta de emergencia de Verizon.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Do recent class actions against ‘flex commission’ car loans mean consumer voices are getting stronger?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jeannie Marie Paterson, Professor of Law, The University of Melbourne

    Gatot Adri/Shutterstock

    It’s been more than five years since the banking royal commission, but its findings continue to have an impact on the financial services sector.

    Law firm Maurice Blackburn recently announced it had settled with ANZ in a class action over allegedly unlawful “flex commissions” built into car loans made by Esanda between 2011 and 2016.

    ANZ agreed to settle the proceedings for $85 million on a “no admission of liability” basis. However, two further flex commission class actions – against Westpac & St George and Macquarie Leasing – remain on foot and will be heard this month.

    Class actions are a growing trend in the ways consumers seek to access justice. Many cases are simply too small to be pursued individually.

    On top of this, a recent High Court ruling could see organisations come under greater scrutiny over the systems they put in place. Could all of this mean consumers are getting a stronger voice?

    What are flex commissions?

    Many car dealers offer to provide financing for prospective car buyers as an alternative to getting a loan directly from a bank. But dealers typically don’t have their own huge reserves of funds to lend out.

    This financing usually comes from a finance company or bank lender through what is sometimes called a “white label” product.

    Many car dealers offer financing arrangements directly to customers.
    Tikhomirov Sergey/Shutterstock

    Dealers will usually be paid a commission on the loans they arrange by the lender. Prior to 2018, some lenders offered these car dealers arranging loans what is called a “flex commission”.

    Flex commissions allowed car dealers to set the interest rate on car loans above an agreed base rate.

    Higher interest rates meant a greater commission for the car dealer, but were not always in the interests of the borrower.

    Banned and heavily criticised

    Flex commissions were formally banned by Australia’s corporate watchdog, the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), in November 2018.

    ASIC had been concerned that borrowers were paying excessively high interest rates on dealer-arranged car loans, and that the commissions were not fair or transparent.

    The watchdog’s own research found about 15% of customers were being charged an interest rate that was 7% or more above the base rate.

    Their main concern was that many car dealers weren’t increasing rates in line with actual credit risk, but rather opportunistically to target inexperienced or vulnerable consumers.

    Shortly after the ban, the final report of the banking royal commission didn’t mince words. Commissioner Kenneth Hayne noted a lack of transparency and a misplaced trust:

    Many borrowers knew nothing of these arrangements. Lenders did not publicise them; dealers did not reveal them. […] To the borrower, the dealer might have appeared to be acting for the borrower by submitting a loan proposal on behalf of the borrower. The borrower was given no indication that in fact the dealer was looking after its own interests.

    Why were class actions needed?

    Neither ASIC’s ban nor the criticisms of the banking royal commission guaranteed any redress for borrowers subject to loans with flex commissions.

    ASIC suggested flex commissions may have contravened the National Consumer Credit Protection Act by being unfair, or the ASIC Act by being misleading. But it is difficult and expensive for individuals to pursue such claims themselves in court.

    ASIC itself can seek compensation on behalf of borrowers, or require redress to be paid as part of other enforcement action. The watchdog has already gone down this road in some of the especially egregious instances of misconduct identified by the royal commission, such as fees for no service.

    Where individual action is too hard or regulator action lacking, consumers’ best option for redress may lie in a class action – taken on a no-win, no-fee basis. The likelihood of a good result may be increased in instances where the class action “piggybacks” on an adverse report from the regulator.

    Corporations may face increasing scrutiny

    It’s reasonable to ask why upstream lenders are being targeted in “flex commission” class actions when it is the car dealers who allegedly wronged borrowers.

    The ongoing class actions do not allege the lenders themselves misled borrowers or treated them unfairly. However, in this context that may not matter.

    In each of the class actions, Maurice Blackburn has argued the car dealers were acting as the representatives of the lenders, which they say makes the lenders responsible for the car dealers’ alleged misconduct.

    A recent High Court ruling may mean corporations have to take greater responsibility for the systems they oversee.
    Shutterstock

    Moreover, in these and similar cases, a recent High Court ruling that centred on “systemic unconscionable conduct” could make it harder for such upstream entities to argue their distance from alleged wrongdoing in systems they put in place.

    Better access to justice

    There has been a rise in consumer protection class actions in recent years, supported by changes in rules of procedure in several jurisdictions.

    Justice Bernard Murphy of the Federal Court of Australia has argued these changes promote the important value of access to justice:

    The important thing to remember is that class actions are critical in ensuring that people can obtain redress for mass civil wrongs. Laws which are not, in fact, readily capable of enforcement by ordinary Australians are little more than an illusion.

    This trend is important. Dishonest or unfair conduct has long been prohibited in the National Consumer Credit Protection Act, but this hasn’t been used much to date.

    Given the current flex commission actions closely follow the findings of ASIC, we should watch the regulator closely for hints of any future actions in other areas. Many could spark discussions that ultimately lead to stronger protection for consumers.

    But when they are successful, we also need to keep an eye on the actual payout to borrowers and hope it takes place without undue delay.

    Jeannie Marie Paterson has previously received funding from the Australian Research Council, DFAT and the Menzies Foundation.

    – ref. Do recent class actions against ‘flex commission’ car loans mean consumer voices are getting stronger? – https://theconversation.com/do-recent-class-actions-against-flex-commission-car-loans-mean-consumer-voices-are-getting-stronger-240795

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –