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Category: Vehicles

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: I&T will drive city’s development: CE

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Delivering his 2024 Policy Address, Chief Executive John Lee said today that Hong Kong must harness new quality productive forces and technological innovation as it seeks to achieve high-quality economic development.

    Mr Lee outlined that in its efforts to become an international centre for innovation and technology (I&T), the city is upgrading and transforming traditional industries, while actively nurturing emerging ones. He vowed that no effort will be spared in developing new quality productive forces tailored to local conditions. 

    Measures announced in Mr Lee’s speech include the drawing up of a development plan for new industrialisation, the setting up of a third InnoHK research cluster, a new round of $1.5 billion in funding under the Research Matching Grant Scheme, a revamping of the Government’s approach to I&T investment, and the launch of an I&T Accelerator Pilot Scheme.

    Besides drawing up a medium to long‑term development plan for new industrialisation, Mr Lee said the Government will also press ahead with the establishment of the Hong Kong New Industrialisation Development Alliance. He explained that this will promote closer collaboration among the Government, industry, academia, and the research and investment sectors, expand financing opportunities, and foster I&T co‑operation between newly‑listed companies and local universities.

    In terms of research and development (R&D), Mr Lee highlighted that preparatory work is underway to establish a third InnoHK research cluster. He mentioned that the existing two such clusters are now home to about 2,500 R&D personnel from Hong Kong and around the world, and iterated that the new cluster will focus on advanced manufacturing, materials, energy and sustainable development. 

    In addition to the new round of funding under the Research Matching Grant Scheme, which encourages organisations to support research endeavours by institutions, Mr Lee pledged that the Government will increase its own investment in I&T industries and guide more market capital to invest in the sector. This will include setting up a $10 billion I&T Industry‑Oriented Fund, a “fund of funds” that will channel market capital to invest in emerging industries of strategic importance, including life and health technology, AI and robotics, semi‑conductors and smart devices, advanced materials, and new energy.

    The Chief Executive added that $1.5 billion from the Innovation and Technology Venture Fund will be redeployed to set up funds that will invest – jointly with the market, on a matching basis – in start‑ups operating in strategic industries. Meanwhile, the Hong Kong Investment Corporation will continue to channel and leverage market capital to attract I&T enterprises to establish operations in Hong Kong.

    Announcing plans to allocate $180 million to establish an I&T Accelerator Pilot Scheme, Mr Lee said it will offer institutions government funding on a one-to-two matching basis, with a subsidy ceiling of $30 million. He explained that the scheme will attract professional start‑up service providers to set up accelerator bases in Hong Kong, thereby fostering the robust growth of start‑ups.

    Mr Lee also outlined plans to unlock the potential of Hong Kong’s low-altitude airspace economy. A working group led by the Deputy Financial Secretary will be established to formulate development strategies and action plans for this issue, and will collaborate with Mainland authorities in exploring the joint establishment of low‑altitude cross‑boundary air routes, as well as immigration and customs clearance arrangements. It will also carry out studies and make plans for the establishment of effective systems, networks and infrastructure for managing low-altitude activities.

    With regard to Low Earth Orbit satellites, Mr Lee announced that the Government will conduct a study aimed at streamlining vetting procedures in relation to licence applications for their operation. He also revealed that the Government will set up a research centre to participate in the Chang’E‑8 lunar mission.

    In relation to new energy development, around $750 million under the New Energy Transport Fund will be earmarked to subsidise the taxi trade and franchised bus companies to purchase electric vehicles, and to launch the Subsidy Scheme for Trials of Hydrogen Fuel Cell Electric Heavy Vehicles.

    Mr Lee added that the Government will speed up the reduction of carbon emissions by setting a target for sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) consumption, and formulate a long-term plan for the development of SAF and green maritime fuel supply chains. Furthermore, it will support industry in establishing a solar-to-hydrogen demonstration facility, and introduce a bill next year to ensure the safe use of hydrogen fuel. 

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Secretary General praises Latvia for its contributions to NATO

    Source: NATO

    On Wednesday (16 October 2024), at his official residence in Brussels, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte met with the Prime Minister of Latvia, Evika Siliņa, to discuss further strengthening NATO’s defences and NATO’s continued support to Ukraine.

    Mr. Rutte praised Latvia for its many contributions to the Alliance. “You spend almost 3 percent of GDP on defence, you host a multinational battlegroup where Allies work side by side to defend NATO’s eastern flank, as well as military exercises to ensure that Latvian and Allied armed forces maintain a high level of readiness and interoperability,” said Mr Rutte at the joint press conference with Prime Minister Siliņa. He referred to Latvia’s commitment to increase defence spending to 3 percent of GDP and noted Riga’s ambition to reach this goal even sooner than expected. Mr. Rutte also commended Latvia for its contributions to NATO’s peacekeeping mission in Kosovo and NATO’s training mission in Iraq.

    On Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine, the Secretary General reiterated that “we must deliver on the commitments we made at the Washington Summit,” noting that Russia has relentlessly attacked Ukraine’s critical energy infrastructure with winter just around the corner. He recalled that “Latvia has provided extensive military training for Ukrainian soldiers” and leads a coalition that works with industry to supply drones.  “I welcome your recent announcement of a new military aid package, including armoured personnel vehicles,” added Mr. Rutte.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Grave of missing World War Two soldier identified in Italy 80 years after his death

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    The grave of a soldier of the Middlesex Regiment who lost his life in Italy during World War Two has been identified and rededicated 80 years after his death.

    Padre David Anderson leads the rededication service for Cpl Owens (Crown Copyright)

    Today’s rededication service for Corporal (Cpl) John Owens was organised by the MOD’s Joint Casualty and Compassionate Centre (JCCC), also known as the ‘War Detectives’. The service was held at the Commonwealth War Graves Commission’s (CWGC) Anzio War Cemetery in Italy. 

    John Alfred Owens was born in Southwark, London on 16 December 1911 to Harry Owens, a milkman, and his wife Louisa. In 1912 John’s sister Amy was born, and a younger brother – Alfred – followed in 1919.  

    John joined the Territorial Army in 1929; he was 18 years old and working as a tool maker. His army records describe him as having a fresh complexion with brown eyes and dark hair.   

    In 1933 he married Violet Maud Dennis in Brentford, and they had three children – Doreen, Sidney and Barbara. He left the Territorial Army in 1935.  

    Cpl John Alfred Owens with his wife and children (supplied courtesy of his family)

    In 1938 John re-joined the army, and in 1939 following the outbreak of war he was promoted to the rank of Lance Corporal, and then Corporal. He was on home defence duties during the early years of the war, until in May 1943 he embarked for North Africa in preparation for the invasion of Italy. His unit, Middlesex Regiment’s 2/7 Battalion were machine gunners supporting infantry troops.    

    By January 1944, John had arrived in Italy, and by the end of the month he was in the Anzio area. On the night of 3 to 4 February 1944 there was a German counterattack during which a small armoured vehicle and gun stores were left behind so the men could safely escape. Early on the morning of the 4th, Cpl Owens, along with another man, Private (Pte) Harris volunteered to recover the gun carrier and other items but went missing in the process. 

    Pte Harris was taken prisoner by the Germans during this action. An Army investigation concluded Cpl Owens had been wounded and taken prisoner, dying in enemy hands on or shortly after the 4 February.  

    Following his death, he was buried near Campoleone station at Aprilla alongside two other men. In August 1944, all three were recovered and moved to the Anzio War Cemetery. The other two men both had personal artefacts which allowed them to be identified, but John could only be identified as a Corporal of the Middlesex Regiment.  

    Recently a team of independent researchers submitted evidence to the CWGC hoping to have located the final resting place of Cpl Owens. This research was reviewed, and extra work was conducted by the National Army Museum and JCCC which concluded that now, 80 years after his death, it was possible to clearly identify where he was buried. 

    Tracy, the granddaughter of Cpl Owens, stands behind his headstone with members of the military party and other dignitaries (Crown Copyright)

    JCCC Caseworker, Alexia Clark, said: 

    Researching Cpl Owens and getting to know his war story has been a fascinating journey. It has been a privilege to have played a part in the conclusion of that stories and to know that his family finally have answers to what happened to him all those years ago.

    Director for Central and Southern Europe at the CWGC, Geert Bekaert, said:  

    We give our heartfelt thanks to the team of researchers, the National Army Museum and of course the JCCC, in working with us to help identify this brave soldier’s grave. We will care for his grave and commemorate all who are buried in the beautiful grounds of Anzio War Cemetery.

    Updates to this page

    Published 16 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Transport infrastructure promoted

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Chief Executive John Lee highlighted today that the Government is actively following through on the Major Transport Infrastructure Development Blueprint for Hong Kong, under which Hung Shui Kiu Station and the Northern Link (NOL) Main Line are to commence construction this year and next year for tentative completion in 2030 and 2034 respectively.

    Delivering his 2024 Policy Address, Mr Lee pointed out that cross-boundary railway projects are pressing ahead at full speed, including the Hong Kong-Shenzhen Western Rail Link (Hung Shui Kiu-Qianhai) and the NOL Spur Line, to enhance linkage between Hong Kong and Shenzhen.

    Devoted to taking forward the three smart and green mass transit systems, and for compressing the time required for construction, the Government invited suppliers and operators to submit expressions of interest for the East Kowloon and Kai Tak projects this August. Expressions of interest for the Hung Shui Kiu/Ha Tsuen projects will be invited later this year.

    Through innovative implementation mode and construction methods, the Government aims to complete the Kai Tak project three years ahead of the original target completion date.

    To promote a green and low-carbon lifestyle, the Government will expand the community recycling network by increasing public collection points from about 500 at present to 800.

    I · PARK 1, the first waste-to-energy facility for treating municipal solid waste, is expected to begin operation next year. The construction of I · PARK 2 will also be taken forward, working towards the goal of zero landfills.

    The Government will continue to assess public views on, and participation in, waste reduction, and report to the Legislative Council by mid-2025.

    With a view to expanding the city’s waste-to-resources capacities, the Government will establish a common legislative framework for the producer responsibility schemes applicable to different products, facilitating the future inclusion of such products as plastic beverage containers and beverage cartons progressively.

    In relation to green industry, the Environment & Ecology Bureau is assisting two local companies in setting up production lines to upcycle local waste materials into high-value products – core materials for electricity-free cooling products and acoustic metamaterial products.

    The Government will inject $100 million for a new round of the Cleaner Production Partnership Programme to expedite green transformation, renovation and the upgrading of local factories and Hong Kong-owned factories in the Guangdong Province, bringing Hong Kong closer to its carbon-neutrality targets.

    The Chief Executive also outlined his plan to expand the charging network for electric vehicles.

    Through the electric vehicle (EV) charging at Home Subsidy Scheme and the gross floor area concession arrangement, about 200,000 EV-charging parking spaces are expected to be available by mid-2027. The Government will earmark $300 million for a new scheme, providing subsidies to the private sector for installing quick-charging facilities. The target is to have a total of 3,000 quick chargers installed by 2030.

    Mr Lee added that two vacant petrol-filling station sites were granted for conversion into quick-charging stations earlier this year. Expressions of interest from the industry will be invited next year to repurpose existing petrol-filling station sites as charging stations, with topside development for other purposes under the single site, multiple use model.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Metropolis project to be expedited

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Chief Executive John Lee says the Government will expedite the implementation of economic and housing-related projects in the Northern Metropolis while maintaining a prudent fiscal position, highlighting that some 60,000 housing units will be completed in the next five years.

    Unveiling his third Policy Address today, Mr Lee said the Government is taking an innovative approach to advancing the development of the Northern Metropolis. This involves exploring the establishment of a pilot industrial park by means of granting some of the logistics sites in the Hung Shui Kiu/Ha Tsuen New Development Area (NDA) to a company established and led by the Government.

    The company will, in accordance with the Government’s industrial policies, be responsible for formulating the park’s development and operational strategies, and will decide whether to accept strategic investment. Details will be announced in the first quarter of next year.

    Separately, the Government will also consider flexible disposal of land to meet the development needs of individual industries, with a view to driving industrial development.

    Moreover, the Government will adopt, on a pilot basis, a large-scale land disposal approach, under which sizable land parcels with commercial value and earmarked for the provision of community facilities will be selected and granted to successful bidders for collective development. 

    This approach is aimed at speeding up development of the land parcels, enabling a more co-ordinated approach to their design. Three land parcels, each of 10 to 20 hectares, have been identified as pilot sites.

    Entering maturity

    Noting that the Northern Metropolis project will gradually enter its maturity phase, Mr Lee said that in the next five years some 60,000 housing units there, involving about 10 new public rental housing estates, will be completed and ready for intake. 

    In the same period, the first batch of land at the San Tin Technopole will be offered to the market, and the new Huanggang Port building, providing co-location of immigration and customs clearance, will be completed.

    In the subsequent five‑year period, the number of new housing units will increase by about 150,000, with over 10 million sq m of gross floor area becoming available for economic uses. The first joint-user government building, in Kwu Tung North, will also be put to use, and the expanded North District Hospital will be ready for service.

    As for transport infrastructure, construction of the Northern Link Main Line is scheduled for completion in 2034, and the Northern Metropolis Highway (San Tin Section) is set to open in 2036.

    Mr Lee said that apart from enhancing the quality of life of Hong Kong people, these developments will significantly boost the city’s economic growth and bolster its technology industries, while providing a living environment that will help to attract talents and encourage them to settle in Hong Kong for good.

    The way forward

    The Government will seek funding for the first stage of the San Tin Technopole’s infrastructure and begin construction works this year. The target is to deliver about 20 hectares of new innovation and technology (I&T) sites in phases, beginning in 2026-27, for the Hong Kong Science & Technology Parks Corporation’s development and operation. 

    In addition, the second phase of the Yuen Long South NDA will begin in mid-2025. The preliminary development proposal for Ngau Tam Mei will be announced imminently, with land being reserved for developing the Northern Metropolis University Town, a third medical school and an integrated teaching hospital. 

    This will be followed by the announcement of preliminary development proposals for the New Territories North New Town and the Ma Tso Lung area before the end of this year.

    The rezoning process for Sandy Ridge in the North District will begin this year, with its I&T sites being expanded to 10 hectares.

    I&T zone

    Mr Lee said the “Development Outline for the Hong Kong Park of the Hetao Shenzhen Hong Kong Science & Technology Innovation Co-operation Zone” will be published later this year.

    It will set out innovative policies to facilitate the flow of personnel, materials, capital and data between the Hong Kong Park and the Shenzhen Park in the zone, making the co-operation zone a crucial source of new quality productive forces for the country.

    In addition, the Government is boosting both the speed and quantity of the Hong Kong Park project, which will be developed in two phases from west to east.

    The first-phase development’s gross floor area will be doubled to 1 million sq m. Construction of the first three buildings will be completed in phases, from the end of this year.

    The first batch of tenants, from the life and health technology, AI, data science and other pillar industries, will begin to move in next year. The remaining five buildings will be completed in the coming five years.

    The Government is also exploring with the Mainland authorities the trial implementation of innovative facilitation measures.

    These include facilitating cross-boundary travel of designated personnel from the two parks, enabling the cross-boundary movement of materials by using low altitude, unmanned aerial vehicles, and facilitating cross-boundary fund transfers by Mainland enterprises settling in the Hong Kong Park.

    Bay area strengths

    Turning to Greater Bay Area (GBA) development, Mr Lee said he has established the Steering Group on Integration into National Development to lead the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government and all sectors of the community to be more proactive in promoting the integrated development of Hong Kong and the Mainland, particularly the Mainland cities of the GBA.

    The Chief Executive said the Government will continue to promote GBA development by building a higher level of connectivity, facilitating policy innovations and breakthroughs, pursuing wider harmonisation of rules and mechanisms, and expediting the co-ordinated development of I&T and related industries.

    The Government will work with the Dongguan Municipal Government, among others, to jointly develop a permanent Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) Dongguan Logistics Park.

    It will also seek to combine the strengths of the HKIA and Zhuhai Airport by enhancing the Fly Via Zhuhai Hong Kong direct passenger service and promoting the development of the international air-cargo business in collaboration with the Zhuhai Municipality.

    On recognition of professional qualifications, Mr Lee said that following the establishment, in collaboration with Guangdong, of an evaluation mechanism in relation to post titles for the first batch of Hong Kong engineering professionals, the Government will do the same for other construction professions on a gradual basis. 

    The Government is also collaborating with Guangdong and Macau to create GBA Standards on the skill levels of skilled workers in the construction sector, and will adopt the “One Examination, Multiple Certification” arrangement. Under this arrangement, those who pass examinations adopting the GBA Standards can concurrently obtain vocational skill certificates issued by the three places.

    To accelerate development of the pharmaceutical industry, the Government will work to enable the cross-boundary use of data, samples, drugs and medical devices through the GBA Clinical Trial Collaboration Platform and the Real World Study & Application Centre in the Hetao Shenzhen-Hong Kong Science & Technology Innovation Co-operation Zone.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Updated plans to protect Pevensey and Eastbourne from flooding

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Efforts include reversing power of the storms as public gets to shape project

    The Environment Agency wants people in Eastbourne and Pevensey to come to drop-in events to hear about plans to protect the area from flooding and coastal erosion

    Moving thousands of tonnes of sand by lorry to fight the forces of nature along the Sussex shore.

    Loosening stormy weather’s grip on how we live and work is behind plans to protect 10,000 homes and businesses in the Eastbourne area.

    Local people now have the chance to see how the Environment Agency will defend the coastline from flooding. Drop-in events are being held in the coming days across Eastbourne and Pevensey, and the plans have also been posted online.    

    The Met Office warns of sea levels rising by at least a metre by the end of the century, so the Environment Agency is laying out proposals to defend 15kms of coast either side of the Eastbourne from flooding and erosion, and wants feedback from the public.

    The Environment Agency estimates some 30,000 cubic square metres of sand and shingle is swept eastwards from Holywell to Cooden Beach every year.  

    Quite literally shifting sands in huge dumper trucks back the other way is a key plank of phase one of proposals to protect 18,000 homes and businesses, transport links and other services. With the sand and shingle back in place, the sea will lose power as it hits the beach.    

    Nick Gray, flood-risk manager for the Environment Agency in Sussex, said:

    “It’s about adapting to the changing climate. We know far more now. Sea levels could rise by 10cm in the next ten years, and around a metre by 2100.

    “Small changes to the beach management that already happens will put us in a better place to the end of the 2040s and beyond as storms get more frequent and intense.

    “Everyone has seen more wet weather and in greater bursts over the past couple of years. The named storms put a greater focus on preparing for the next one.

    “We can make a difference if we all play our part. The public are welcome at the drop-ins held across Eastbourne and Pevensey. They should also sign-up for free flood alerts and warnings at http://www.gov.uk/flood or on Floodline: 0345 988 1188.”

    A football club, community centre and church hall will host events to outline phase one of the 15-year Pevensey Bay to Eastbourne Coastal Management Scheme, a project between the Environment Agency and 4 local councils, East Sussex, Eastbourne, Rother and Wealden. It’s one of the largest coastal flood-risk schemes in the country.  

    The Met Office says sea levels will rise by about a metre by the end of the century, while the Environment Agency calls on everyone to check their flood-risk and learn how to deal with flooding

    Other ideas to protect the area from flooding and coastal erosion include building up the coastline by importing sand and shingle from the sea bed to the beach to widen the coastal squeeze – the gap between the sea and the properties and infrastructure like roads and the prom.

    The Environment Agency also wants to raise the height of the many timber groynes that punctuate the beach to stop the constant movement of sand and shingle from west to east and to hold back floodwater.

    The drop-ins to see and give feedback on the proposals, plus an online presentation of the work, kick off Flood Action Week, between 14 and 20 October, a concerted effort by the Environment Agency to make people recognise their flood-risk.

    Environment Agency staff will be on hand at all three venues to explain the flood-protection scheme. All 3 sessions run from 6pm to 7.30pm.

    • Tuesday 15 October: Eastbourne Borough football club, Priory Lane, Langney BN23 7QH.
    • Tuesday 22 October: Sovereign Harbour Community Centre, The Crumbles, Pevensey Bay Rd, Eastbourne BN23 6JH.
    • Friday 1 November: St Wilfrid’s Church Hall, 2 Collier Rd, Pevensey Bay BN24 6EZ.

    The online presentation of phase one can be found at: https://consult.environment-agency.gov.uk/solent-and-south-downs/pevensey-to-eastbourne-phase-1-survey, where the public can also give feedback.

    Contact us:

    Journalists only: 0800 141 2743 or communications_se@environment-agency.gov.uk.

    Updates to this page

    Published 15 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Moolenaar on VP Kamala Harris’s Visit to Michigan

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman John Moolenaar (4th District of Michigan)

    Headline: Moolenaar on VP Kamala Harris’s Visit to Michigan

    Vice President Kamala Harris is expected to be in Michigan today. Her visit comes after a new Quinnipiac poll shows 57% of Michigan residents oppose the Biden-Harris polices that push Michigan residents to own electric vehicles. 

    “Vice President Harris says she wouldn’t do anything differently than the past four years, and that means she would continue the Biden-Harris policies that push Americans toward buying cars they don’t want and allow foreign adversaries to receive billions in taxpayer funding. Those policies are wrong, and they are out of touch. American companies should never have to compete with foreign adversaries receiving taxpayer funding,” said Congressman John Moolenaar. 

    Last year, Moolenaar introduced the NO GOTION Act to block green energy production tax credits from the so-called “Inflation Reduction Act” from going to companies and subsidiaries affiliated with foreign adversaries including China, Iran, Russia, and North Korea.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Form 8.3 – [KEYWORDS STUDIOS PLC – 14 10 2024] – (CGWL)

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    FORM 8.3

    PUBLIC OPENING POSITION DISCLOSURE/DEALING DISCLOSURE BY
    A PERSON WITH INTERESTS IN RELEVANT SECURITIES REPRESENTING 1% OR MORE
    Rule 8.3 of the Takeover Code (the “Code”)

    1.        KEY INFORMATION

    (a)   Full name of discloser: CANACCORD GENUITY WEALTH LIMITED (for Discretionary clients)
    (b)   Owner or controller of interests and short positions disclosed, if different from 1(a):
            The naming of nominee or vehicle companies is insufficient. For a trust, the trustee(s), settlor and beneficiaries must be named.    		 N/A
    (c)   Name of offeror/offeree in relation to whose relevant securities this form relates:
            Use a separate form for each offeror/offeree    		 KEYWORDS STUDIOS PLC
    (d)   If an exempt fund manager connected with an offeror/offeree, state this and specify identity of offeror/offeree: N/A
    (e)   Date position held/dealing undertaken:
            For an opening position disclosure, state the latest practicable date prior to the disclosure    		 14 OCTOBER 2024
    (f)   In addition to the company in 1(c) above, is the discloser making disclosures in respect of any other party to the offer?
            If it is a cash offer or possible cash offer, state “N/A”    		 N/A

    2.        POSITIONS OF THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE

    If there are positions or rights to subscribe to disclose in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 2(a) or (b) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security.

    (a)      Interests and short positions in the relevant securities of the offeror or offeree to which the disclosure relates following the dealing (if any)

    Class of relevant security: 1p ORDINARY
      Interests Short positions
    Number % Number %
    (1)   Relevant securities owned and/or controlled: 1,351,089 1.6777    
    (2)   Cash-settled derivatives:        
    (3)   Stock-settled derivatives (including options) and agreements to purchase/sell:        
    TOTAL: 1,351,089 1.6777    

    All interests and all short positions should be disclosed.

    Details of any open stock-settled derivative positions (including traded options), or agreements to purchase or sell relevant securities, should be given on a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions).

    (b)      Rights to subscribe for new securities (including directors’ and other employee options)

    Class of relevant security in relation to which subscription right exists:  
    Details, including nature of the rights concerned and relevant percentages:  

    3.        DEALINGS (IF ANY) BY THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE

    Where there have been dealings in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 3(a), (b), (c) or (d) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security dealt in.

    The currency of all prices and other monetary amounts should be stated.

    (a)        Purchases and sales

    Class of relevant security Purchase/sale Number of securities Price per unit
    1p ORDINARY SALE 8,235 2436p
    1p ORDINARY SALE 7,265 2437p

    (b)        Cash-settled derivative transactions

    Class of relevant security Product description
    e.g. CFD    		 Nature of dealing
    e.g. opening/closing a long/short position, increasing/reducing a long/short position    		 Number of reference securities Price per unit
    NONE        

    (c)        Stock-settled derivative transactions (including options)

    (i)        Writing, selling, purchasing or varying

    Class of relevant security Product description e.g. call option Writing, purchasing, selling, varying etc. Number of securities to which option relates Exercise price per unit Type
    e.g. American, European etc.    		 Expiry date Option money paid/ received per unit
    NONE              

    (ii)        Exercise

    Class of relevant security Product description
    e.g. call option    		 Exercising/ exercised against Number of securities Exercise price per unit

    (d)        Other dealings (including subscribing for new securities)

    Class of relevant security Nature of dealing
    e.g. subscription, conversion    		 Details Price per unit (if applicable)
    NONE      

    4.        OTHER INFORMATION

    (a)        Indemnity and other dealing arrangements

    Details of any indemnity or option arrangement, or any agreement or understanding, formal or informal, relating to relevant securities which may be an inducement to deal or refrain from dealing entered into by the person making the disclosure and any party to the offer or any person acting in concert with a party to the offer:
    Irrevocable commitments and letters of intent should not be included. If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”

    NONE

    (b)        Agreements, arrangements or understandings relating to options or derivatives

    Details of any agreement, arrangement or understanding, formal or informal, between the person making the disclosure and any other person relating to:
    (i)   the voting rights of any relevant securities under any option; or
    (ii)   the voting rights or future acquisition or disposal of any relevant securities to which any derivative is referenced:
    If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”

    NONE

    (c)        Attachments

    Is a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions) attached? NO
    Date of disclosure: 15 OCTOBER 2024
    Contact name: MARK ELLIOTT
    Telephone number: 01253 376539

    Public disclosures under Rule 8 of the Code must be made to a Regulatory Information Service.

    The Panel’s Market Surveillance Unit is available for consultation in relation to the Code’s disclosure requirements on +44 (0)20 7638 0129.

    The Code can be viewed on the Panel’s website at http://www.thetakeoverpanel.org.uk.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Statement from Governor Hochul on Federal CHIPS Grant

    Source: US State of New York

    “The rebirth of Upstate New York’s manufacturing industry continues today, as the Biden-Harris Administration announces a major $750 million CHIPS grant for Wolfspeed. New Yorkers are incredibly grateful to the Biden-Harris Administration, Secretary Raimondo, Leader Schumer and the entire New York Congressional Delegation for championing the CHIPS and Science Act – a law that is helping companies create good-paying jobs and expand economic opportunity across New York.

    “Two years ago, I was proud to cut the ribbon on Wolfspeed’s first-of-its-kind, 200 mm silicon carbide fabrication facility at Marcy Nanocenterwhich is already creating good manufacturing jobs, attracting top-notch talent and bringing opportunity to Upstate NY. Wolfspeed was able to expand in Oneida County thanks to years of research and development in the Empire State. Even before shovels were in the ground at Marcy Nanocenter, Wolfspeed had been working at Albany’s Nanotech Complex with NY CREATES to perfect the 200mm silicon carbide manufacturing process. Now, the technology produced in Marcy powers electric vehicles, the 5G revolution and industrial products to help meet our nation-leading sustainability goals. With Wolfspeed as an anchor and investments by my administration in shovel readiness through the FAST NY program, we will bring even more innovative and cutting edge companies to the Mohawk Valley.

    “With federal investments and New York’s own Green CHIPS Act, we’re making the Empire State a global leader in advanced manufacturing. We’re charting a new path forward to seize the future and prepare for the next century of economic growth.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Stauber Blast Postmaster Dejoy for Bogus Plan

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08)

    Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08) sent Postmaster General Louis Dejoy a letter regarding a report detailing how the United States Postal Service (USPS) is considering plans to allow slower mail delivery in the coming months for long-distance and rural services to cut costs.

    “I am deeply disappointed by this announcement, as your agency’s mission is to provide every American with reliable, affordable, and universal mail service,” exclaimed Congressman Stauber in the letter.

    “Arbitrarily determining that a senior living in a rural area can wait to receive their life-saving medication or a veteran can wait to receive their benefits check is unacceptable. Rural communities are already at a disadvantage, with less access to essential services. Your proposal exacerbates these issues, turning a blind eye to the fact that reliable mail service is a lifeline for many in these areas.”

    The letter goes on to demand an immediate reassessment of the plan and calls for solutions that do not compromise service quality for rural areas.

    Background:

    A Washington Post article titled “Postal Service considers rural mail slowdown after election,” dated August 22, 2024, reports that USPS officials are considering plans to allow for slower rural delivery.

    Over the past year, Congressman Stauber has received numerous reports concerning USPS operations, including complaints of work conditions from rural carriers and serious delays of essential items due to alleged prioritization of third-party packages. This prompted Congressman Stauber to inquire about these complaints to the USPS, whose response to the inquiry was insufficient and dismissive.

    Since then, Congressman Stauber introduced the Rural Mail Delivery Improvement Act with Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN). This legislation requires the USPS to implement best practices to fix their delivery of service. Furthermore, Congressman Stauber introduced the Modifying Allocations to Improve Local Service (MAIL) Act. This legislation redirects $3 billion from the Biden-Harris Administration’s program to electrify all USPS vehicles, which do not work in cold weather climates like Minnesota, to workforce development, training, and overall improvement of working conditions for our rural carriers.

    To read the full letter, click here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Charlottetown — PEI RCMP complete check stops and numerous traffic stops to promote Operation Impact

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Operation Impact is a traffic initiative led by the Canadian Association of Chiefs of Police . Each year, motor vehicle collisions kill about 2,000 Canadians, seriously injure another 10,000 people and injure about 165,000 citizens in this country. This year, the message to Canadians from Operation Impact 2024 is – Don’t risk lives with bad driving behaviours. Safety is literally in every driver’s hands.

    In support of Operation Impact, PEI RCMP conducted check stops and numerous traffic stops throughout the province from October 11th to 14th, 2024.

    • On October 11th, 2024, at 8:05 p.m. Queens District RCMP stopped a vehicle that was failing to maintain the driving lane. A 63-year-old woman was arrested for failing to comply with a breath demand.
    • On October 11th, 2024, at 8:55 p.m. Kings District RCMP received a call from the public that an individual was operating a motor vehicle while impaired. A 47-year-old man was arrested and provided breath samples over the legal limit.
    • On October 12th, 2024, at 7:01 p.m. PEI RCMP Traffic Services stopped a vehicle for speeding in Hampton, PE, and completed a roadside breath test with the driver, resulting in a seven-day license suspension.
    • On October 14th, 2024, at 11:11 p.m. Queens District RCMP stopped a vehicle for speeding on the Charlottetown Perimeter Highway. A 25-year-old female was arrested and provided breath samples over the legal limit.

    “As a driver on Island roads, you have the power to save lives, and keep others safe as well,” said Constable, Kevin MacKay, Acting Media Relations Officer with PEI RCMP. “We cannot say it enough, don’t drive impaired, by alcohol or drugs; plan your rides and make smart choices,” adds Cst. MacKay.

    If you see a driver who is an immediate threat to road safety, call 911 and pass the following information along, if possible:

    • A description of the vehicle and driver;
    • A licence plate number;
    • The direction the vehicle is travelling.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Government of Canada continues progress on greening operations and supporting clean electricity infrastructure

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    October 15, 2024 Calgary, Alberta Public Services and Procurement Canada The Government of Canada is taking further action on its Greening Government Strategy commitment to use 100 per cent clean electricity in federal buildings. This strategy supports green energy projects and reduces greenhouse gas emissions, leading Canada’s continued energy transition.

    October 15, 2024          Calgary, Alberta                         Public Services and Procurement Canada

    The Government of Canada is taking further action on its Greening Government Strategy commitment to use 100 per cent clean electricity in federal buildings. This strategy supports green energy projects and reduces greenhouse gas emissions, leading Canada’s continued energy transition.

    Today, on behalf the Honourable Jean-Yves Duclos, Minister of Public Services and Procurement and Quebec Lieutenant, George Chahal, Member of Parliament for Calgary Skyview, announced contracts totalling over $73 million, awarded to hep solar and South Head Switch Power, for the supply of Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs).  

    These contracts support the Government of Canada’s commitment to the goal of net-zero emissions by 2050. The announcement aligns with Public Services and Procurement Canada’s (PSPC) clean electricity initiative and Canada’s ongoing commitment to invest in renewable energy. These contracts will supply 100,600 RECs annually from new clean electricity solar facilities.

    This agreement will enable the Government of Canada to attribute its electricity consumption as being clean in regions where opportunities for new clean renewable sources are not yet available, while supporting the creation of new green energy facilities. The RECs will reduce up to 32,600 tonnes of Carbon Dioxide Equivalent (eCO2) for the Government of Canada’s real property operations, which is equivalent to the annual greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions of more than 9,980 gas-powered passenger vehicles.  

    Furthermore, these contracts will help promote Indigenous business capacity in the clean energy sector and contribute to Canada’s efforts to strengthen economic relationships with Indigenous entrepreneurs. South Head Energy is an Indigenous-owned business, and South Head Switch Power is joint venture with Switch Power, which is registered with the Indigenous Business Directory.

     

    “As a leader in clean energy, Canada is making significant progress toward a sustainable future with the announcement of over $73 million in Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs). This investment supports our commitment to powering federal buildings with 100% clean electricity, reducing greenhouse gas emissions all while boosting our economy. Together, with our Indigenous partners, we are not just envisioning a net-zero future by 2050; we are actively creating it, ensuring that environmental responsibility and economic growth go hand in hand.”

    George Chahal
    Member of Parliament of Calgary Skyview

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Students Harness Power of New Kestrel Supercomputer for Cutting-Edge Energy Research and Innovation

    Source: US National Renewable Energy Laboratory

    Surendra Sunkari, a high-performance computing (HPC) engineer at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, examines Kestrel. Photo by Joe DelNero, NREL

    Students pursuing careers in energy research had a unique opportunity this year to use Kestrel—the U.S. Department of Energy Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy’s (EERE’s) third-generation supercomputer hosted by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL).

    This summer, NREL completed the full buildout of Kestrel, reaching 44 petaflops of computing power focused on renewable energy and energy efficiency research. Students from across the country were invited by EERE to apply for access to this powerful tool to advance their research and to expand EERE’s computational efforts for the energy transition. Last fall, over 25 students from 15 universities across the United States applied to use Kestrel for the 2024 spring and summer semesters.

    Students like Yifan Hu at Iowa State University used Kestrel to study the effect of solar wind and other space weather phenomena on solar energy infrastructure. Using the supercomputer’s advanced central processing unit nodes, his team tested new scalable algorithms to provide robust and accurate methods to model solar wind using a numerical method called the relativistic Vlasov-Maxwell system, with the goal of understanding the effects of solar wind on the stability and efficiency of solar power plants to improve power grid reliability and resilience. Access to Kestrel enabled Hu to receive computing results within a week, which led to the submission of two journal articles currently under review.

    Rajat Goel, a chemical engineering student at the University of California, Davis used Kestrel’s high-performance graphics processing units to simulate uranium and its defects, an extremely complex problem that requires significant computational power. Goel researched developing future protective coatings for nuclear reactors to prevent uranium hydride formation, as it is highly toxic and incredibly flammable. Using Kestrel, he significantly reduced the time needed for these simulations. Nuclear energy plays a role as a noncarbon energy source by generating carbon-free power. Ensuring its safe and reliable production is an important factor toward achieving the Department of Energy’s 2050 net-zero greenhouse gas emissions target.

    Hu and Goel’s research projects highlight Kestrel’s ability to address large-scale challenges, particularly in enhancing energy resiliency. Meanwhile, across the country, students used the supercomputer for different yet equally impactful energy research.

    Stanford University student Mark Benjamin used Kestrel’s advanced artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning capabilities in his manufacturing research project to apply AI models, including convolutional neural networks to model drag and convolutional autoencoders to represent realistic car shapes. The project goal was to set new standards for vehicle design and optimization, aiming to improve fuel efficiency and reduce carbon emissions.

    Students from the University of Minnesota, led by Suryanarayan Ramachandran, used computational fluid dynamics codes on Kestrel to design novel engines that use hydrogen for combustion. This project leveraged an Exascale Computing Project code called AMRex Combustion PeleC to perform first-of-its-kind high-fidelity three-dimensional simulations of explosive hydrogen reactions, called oblique detonation waves, to investigate how hydrogen combustion can be used for future hypersonic propulsion systems, advancing fuel technologies research to reduce fossil fuels.

    Tackling complex energy challenges requires powerful computational resources along with support to ensure the productive use of these resources. Students received help getting their accounts set up and running their workflows on Kestrel from the User Operations staff in the Computational Science Center at NREL. Providing students with access to Kestrel not only advances current research but also shapes the future of clean energy technologies by equipping students with advanced skills to lead in the field of energy innovation and research.  

    Students interested in using Kestrel for their energy research should keep an eye out for future opportunities at nrel.gov/news.

    Read blog posts about the installation of NREL’s Kestrel high-performance computing system.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Lebanon: assassinating sectarian leaders has always led to instability – this time will be no different

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Mohamad El Kari, PhD Candidate in the Department of War Studies, King’s College London

    Aleksey Klints / Shutterstock

    The assassination of Hezbollah’s leader, Hassan Nasrallah, in September sent shock waves through the Middle East and beyond. Nasrallah had evolved into the very embodiment of Hezbollah over his 32 years in charge, and had established himself as a key figure in Iran’s so-called axis of resistance.

    At the height of his influence, Nasrallah was so widely admired from North Africa to Iran that shops sold DVDs of his speeches, cars were embellished with his image, and many Lebanese even used his quotes as ringtones.

    He is not the first sectarian leader to have been assassinated in Lebanon. And on each occasion the killings have intensified sectarian tensions in the country and have jeopardised social stability. The impact of Nasrallah’s death will, in my opinion, probably be no different.

    His killing could destabilise the fragile balance of power in the country. And it could also trigger a reshuffling of political alliances within Lebanon’s complex sectarian power-sharing framework that was established in 1990 after the end of the civil war.

    In 1977, the leftist leader of the Druze community, Kamal Jumblatt, was assassinated by two unidentified gunmen in his stronghold in the Shouf mountains of central Lebanon. Many of his followers believed they knew who was responsible, and channelled their anger toward Lebanon’s Christian community.

    Security officials reported that more than 250 Christians were killed in revenge, many brutally, with their throats cut by Druze assailants. At least 7,000 Christians fled their villages after the killings, with around 700 of them travelling to the presidential palace in Baabda, a suburb of Beirut, to request government protection.

    This spell of fighting marked a significant escalation of sectarian violence during the civil war, and resulted in a persistent cycle of retaliation, deepening division and entrenched sectarian identities.

    The world is watching the US election campaign unfolding. Sign up to join us at a special Conversation event on October 17. Expert panellists will discuss with the audience the upcoming election and its possible fallout.

    Then, in June 1982, a powerful bomb explosion killed Lebanon’s Maronite Christian president, Bashir Gemayel. The assassination was carried out by two members of the Syrian Social Nationalist party, reportedly under orders from Syria’s then president, Hafez al-Assad.

    The next day, Israeli troops entered west Beirut in support of the Phalange, a Lebanese Christian militia that blamed the Palestinian Liberation Organisation (PLO) for Gemayel’s death. Israel had earlier that month launched a massive invasion of Lebanon to destroy the PLO, which had been carrying out attacks on Israel from southern Lebanon.

    Knowing that the Phalangists sought revenge for Gemayel’s death, Israeli forces allowed them to enter the Shatila refugee camp and the adjacent Sabra neighbourhood in Beirut and carry out a massacre a few months later. Lebanese Christian militiamen, in coordination with the Israeli army, killed between 2,000 and 3,500 Palestinian refugees and Muslim Lebanese civilians in just two days.

    Scores of witness and survivor accounts say women were routinely raped, and some victims were buried alive or shot in front of their families. Women and children were crammed into trucks and taken to unknown destinations. These people were never seen again.

    Following the end of Lebanon’s civil war, there was a period of relative stability as a delicate balance of power was established between Lebanese sects. But a car bomb in downtown Beirut in 2005 killed the country’s former prime minister, Rafic Hariri, and again altered the dynamics of sectarian rivalry in Lebanon.

    Lebanon lost one of its central figures, while fury over Syria’s alleged involvement in Hariri’s murder raised international pressure on Syria to end its 29-year occupation. The withdrawal diminished Syria’s influence as the primary mediator in the country, and the underlying tension between the two main sectarian groups vying for power, the Sunnis and Shia, surfaced abruptly.

    Lebanon experienced 18 months of political deadlock and protests, with Hezbollah and its allies pushing for a veto power in the government. Hostilities intensified and violence became a constant threat.

    Then, in May 2008, the Lebanese government attempted to remove a Hezbollah-aligned security officer and investigate the organisation’s private communications network. This ignited fierce clashes between supporters of the government and the Hezbollah-led opposition.

    Hezbollah and its allies occupied west Beirut and at least 71 people, including 14 civilians, were killed over the following fortnight.

    Hezbollah steadily expanded and enhanced its military capabilities over the next ten years. And it also emerged as a powerful regional player by joining Iran and Russia in supporting Bashar al-Assad’s regime in the Syrian civil war.

    The organisation assumed an increasingly central role in Lebanese politics, and secured a majority of seats in the 2018 parliamentary elections.

    What happens now?

    Lebanon’s modern history is rife with conflict. The assassination of Nasrallah marks the latest in a series of bloody milestones that have served as sharp turning points – and even transformational moments – in Lebanon’s sectarian politics.

    Christian and Sunni factions in Lebanon have for years viewed Hezbollah as effectively commandeering the state, leveraging its powerful military wing and Iranian backing. With Hezbollah now visibly weakened in the absence of its powerful and charismatic leader, this longstanding power dynamic may be set for a shift.

    There are signs that divisions are already deepening. Videos from Tripoli, a predominantly Sunni city in northern Lebanon, show residents dancing in the streets in celebration of Nasrallah’s death. Other videos show people removing Hezbollah stickers from the vehicles of displaced Shias.

    Meanwhile, Hezbollah supporters have pledged retaliation for Nasrallah’s elimination. Lebanon once again finds itself on the verge of fierce sectarian tension and instability.

    This research is carried out as part of the XCEPT programme, which is funded by UK International Development from the UK government. The views expressed do not necessarily reflect the UK government’s official policies.

    – ref. Lebanon: assassinating sectarian leaders has always led to instability – this time will be no different – https://theconversation.com/lebanon-assassinating-sectarian-leaders-has-always-led-to-instability-this-time-will-be-no-different-240717

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI: Credit Agricole Sa: Crédit Agricole Personal Finance & Mobility takes a stake in GAC Leasing to support the growth of GAC Group sales in China

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Massy – October 15th, 2024

    Crédit Agricole Personal Finance & Mobility
    takes a stake in GAC Leasing to support the growth
    of GAC Group sales in China

    • CA Personal Finance & Mobility announces the planned acquisition of 50% of the equity interests of GAC Finance Leasing Co. Ltd. (GAC Leasing), the leasing company of one of the largest Chinese manufacturers Guangzhou Automobile Group Co., Ltd. (GAC Group), via a reserved capital increase.
    • With this new joint venture, CA Personal Finance & Mobility is expected to offer financial and operational leasing solutions on the Chinese market in 2025 and will thus promote the deployment of electric vehicles in China.
    • This transaction will consolidate a partnership that has existed since 2009 between CA Personal Finance & Mobility and GAC Group with the creation of GAC-Sofinco AFC, a 50-50 joint venture. The latter operates throughout China and offers automotive financing and services to the GAC-Honda, GAC-Toyota, AION, HYPTEC and GAC Motor networks, serving more than 3,000 dealers.

    CA Personal Finance & Mobility to become 50% shareholder of GAC Leasing

    Following a reserved capital increase, CA Personal Finance & Mobility will hold 50% of the equity interests of GAC Leasing. The company has been operating on the Chinese market since 2004 and offers financial and operational leasing solutions to GAC customers and its dealer network.

    Through this transaction, CA Personal Finance & Mobility and GAC group are strengthening the leasing offer proposed to Chinese customers, thereby stimulating the sale of electric vehicles, which already represents 60% of GAC Leasing’s leasing contracts on a portfolio of more than 200,000 vehicles.

    The impact on the CET1 ratio of Crédit Agricole S.A. and that of the Crédit Agricole group will be very limited.

    « This transaction reaffirms the importance of our long-standing partnership with GAC group. It will enable us to support together and over the long term the development of the particularly dynamic electric automobile market in China. »
    STEPHANE PRIAMI – CEO of Crédit Agricole Personal Finance & Mobility

    Key figures:

    • In 2023, GAC group was the 4th largest automotive group in China
    • More than 2.5 million vehicles sold in 2023 worldwide
    • 39,90% of electrified vehicles sold in 2023

    Press Contact

    Claire Garcia
    presse@ca-cf.fr
    +33 (0)1 87 38 11 81 / +33 (0)6 80 41 17 77

    About Crédit Agricole Personal Finance & Mobility

    Crédit Agricole Personal Finance & Mobility is a leader in personal financing and a provider of access to all mobility solutions in Europe. It distributes directly, at the point of sale or on its partners’ e-commerce platforms, a wide range of financing solutions – amortizable credit, revolving credit, leasing and credit buyback – with associated services including insurance, split payment solutions and services dedicated to mobility, with the aim of meeting the challenges of energy transition in mobility, housing and consumption. Its financing solutions and services are offered in France via Sofinco, in Italy via Agos, in Germany via Creditplus, in Portugal via Credibom, in Spain via Sofinco Espana, in Morocco via Wafasalaf, and in China via GAC-Sofinco (automotive financing only). Crédit Agricole Personal Finance & Mobility aims to be the leader in electric mobility in Europe and offers a mobility continuum in the 22 countries where it is present (leasing, medium and short-term rental, subscription, car sharing, installation of charging stations, etc.). The company relies on Leasys, a joint venture equally owned by Stellantis, CA Auto Bank and Drivalia, the pan-European leader in automotive financing, rental and mobility, Crédit Agricole Mobility Services, a comprehensive service offering dedicated to mobility and the development of automotive financing in its universal subsidiaries in Europe and in Crédit Agricole Regional Banks and at LCL via Agilauto. CA Personal Finance & Mobility acts every day in the interest of its 17.2 million customers and society. As of December 31, 2023, CA Personal Finance & Mobility managed €113 billion in outstanding credit. More information: http://www.ca-personalfinancemobility.com

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Government of Canada to scale growth of six manufacturers in the EV sector in southern Ontario

    Source: Government of Canada News

    Backgrounder

    October 15, 2024

    Today, the Honourable Filomena Tassi, Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario), announced a combined repayable investment of more than $12 million for six manufacturers in the EV sector to expand production capabilities and adopt new equipment. Minister Tassi was joined by Pam Damoff, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Foreign Affairs (Consular Affairs) and Member of Parliament for Oakville North—Burlington.

    Recipient Name Project Funding Amount

    B.S.B. Manufacturing Ltd.

    To modernize its facility and seize future growth in the industry with the addition of automated production equipment to increase its capacity to produce EV and hybrid vehicle components.

    $1.2 million

    Can Art Aluminum Extrusion Canada Inc.

    To expand its aluminium parts manufacturing (extrusion) capacity to produce new components for the EV market at its Lakeshore, Ontario, facility.

    $5 million

    Clover Tool Manufacturing Ltd.

    To support enhanced manufacturing capabilities to produce intricate components for the EV sector at its Concord facility.

    $750,000

    CMP Automation Inc.

    To bring to market modified computer numerical control (CNC) machinery for high-volume production of EV parts.

    $499,532

    Electrovaya Inc.

    To expand its lithium-ion battery manufacturing capacity in order to meet the demand from the EV industry for its products.

    $2 million

    Marwood International Inc.

    To increase its parts manufacturing and assembling capabilities for complex EV parts.

    $3 million

    Related Product

    News Release: Government of Canada supports six companies boosting EV growth in southern Ontario

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Government of Canada supports six companies boosting EV growth in southern Ontario

    Source: Government of Canada News

    News release

    Federal investment will support the growth of six manufacturers in the electric vehicles supply chain

    October 15, 2024 – Burlington, Ontario   

    Southern Ontario has a growing and competitive electric vehicle (EV) sector. Businesses across the sector are developing advanced technologies to seize new growth opportunities. The Government of Canada is investing in these businesses so they can reach their potential and develop new possibilities for our country.

    Today, the Honourable Filomena Tassi, Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario) visited B.S.B. Manufacturing Ltd. (B.S.B), a Burlington-based machined components and parts manufacturer serving the automotive, agricultural and industrial product markets, to meet with employees and learn about the company’s ongoing shift to manufacture parts for electric vehicles. Minister Tassi was joined by Pam Damoff, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Foreign Affairs (Consular Affairs) and Member of Parliament for Oakville North–Burlington.

    To support this transition, B.S.B. is receiving $1.2 million to seize future growth in the industry with the addition of new automated production equipment and facility upgrades. This will increase the company’s capacity to produce EV and hybrid vehicle components and fulfill new contracts within the EV industry.

    This funding is part of a combined investment of more than $12 million to help six manufacturers scale up EV production: B.S.B. Manufacturing Ltd., Can Art Aluminum Extrusion Canada Inc., Clover Tool Manufacturing Ltd., CMP Automation Inc., Electrovaya Inc. and Marwood International Inc. By expanding production capabilities and adopting new equipment, Ontario companies are meeting the growing demand for innovative production capabilities to feed the EV supply chain. Additional information on these projects is included in the backgrounder.

    The Government of Canada is committed to supporting businesses as they evolve to develop new opportunities in the EV sector and create good jobs for Canadians. Together, we are building a stronger, more sustainable future for everyone.

    Quotes

    “Southern Ontario has a rapidly growing EV sector and is home to many leading manufacturers across the EV supply chain that are using their expertise and talent to drive our EV sector forward. The Government of Canada is committed to supporting these companies as they help Canada to make progress towards its goal of reaching net-zero emissions and build a competitive EV sector in the region.”
    – The Honourable Filomena Tassi, Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario) 

    “The federal government is taking steps to help Canadians, businesses and communities adapt to climate change while making life more affordable on the path to net-zero. Today’s announcement highlights not only the resilience of this region, but also the strength of the manufacturing sector throughout southern Ontario.”
    – Pam Damoff, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Foreign Affairs (Consular Affairs) and Member of Parliament for Oakville North–Burlington

    “Today, as we embark on a new chapter with EV and hybrid solutions for our customers, we are paving the way for the future of competitive manufacturing in Canada—one that requires constant innovation. B.S.B. is built on a strong foundation of high-quality products, in-house expertise and cutting-edge solutions. Thanks to the FedDev Ontario funding, we’ve been able to invest in new machinery, tooling, automation and robotics, ensuring that we can retain direct and indirect manufacturing jobs in Canada.”
    – Narinder Bhogal, P.Eng, President, B.S.B. Manufacturing Ltd.

    Quick facts

    • Established in 1976 in Burlington, B.S.B. Manufacturing Ltd. is a Tier 1 & 2 automotive supplier to major customers such as Stellantis (Chrysler), Magna, Tesla and GM.

    • Founded in 1988 and headquartered in Brampton, Can Art Aluminum Extrusion Canada Inc. has emerged as a leader in designing and producing housing units and components for EV batteries at its Lakeshore, Ontario facility, used in a significant number of EVs in North America.

    • Concord-based Clover Tool Manufacturing Ltd. was established in 1979 and is a supplier of tooling, stampings, and welded and mechanical assemblies for automotive and other industries.

    • Founded in 1988, Kitchener-based CMP Automation Inc. provides custom automated manufacturing equipment and solutions to various industries, including nylon tubing used in the automotive industry.

    • Established in 1996, Mississauga-based Electrovaya Inc. is a pioneering leader in the global energy transformation, focused on contributing to the prevention of climate change by manufacturing safe and long-lasting lithium-ion batteries for heavy-duty vehicles and battery systems.

    • Incorporated in 1990, Tillsonburg-headquartered Marwood International Inc. is an award-winning stamping and assembly company that manufactures a full range of automotive components, such as structural assemblies, rear-end components, roof and sunroof components, and more.

    • Since 2015, FedDev Ontario has invested more than $86.9 million in 26 EV-related projects, creating and maintaining more than 2,250 jobs.

    Associated links

    Contacts

    Edward Hutchinson
    Press Secretary
    Office of the Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency
    for Southern Ontario
    Edward.hutchinson@feddevontario.gc.ca

    FedDev Ontario
    Media Relations
    media@feddevontario.gc.ca

    Stay Connected

    FedDev-Ontario.Canada.ca

    Follow us on X, Instagram, LinkedIn and Facebook.

    Subscribe to FedDev Ontario’s Southern Ontario Spotlight newsletter, featuring economic development news and updates from across the region.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Ten Defendants Associated with “Everybody Shines Together” Street Gang Sentenced in Federal Drug and Gun Conspiracy

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (b)

    Louisville, KY – This week the last of ten defendants, each of whom were associated with the “Everybody Shines Together” street gang (also knowns as “EST”), was sentenced as part of a conspiracy involving federal drug and firearms offenses. 

    U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Michael E. Stansbury of the FBI Louisville Field Office, and Chief Paul Humphrey of the Louisville Metro Police Department made the announcement.

    “I commend the outstanding work of our prosecutors, federal law enforcement agents, and our local law enforcement partners who worked tirelessly to ensure the successful prosecution of the defendants in this case,” stated U.S. Attorney Bennett. “These are significant federal prison sentences for serious violations of the law. Together, we will continue to investigate and aggressively prosecute those who seek to flood our streets and neighborhoods with drugs while illegally using and possessing firearms.” 

    “With the sentencing of Mr. Mosley comes the conclusion of a years-long collaborative effort across all levels of law enforcement to put some of Louisville’s most hardened criminals behind bars and disrupt one of the area’s most consequential street gangs,” said Special Agent in Charge Michael E. Stansbury. “With multiple significant federal prison sentences, we hope this case serves as a warning sign. As long as you continue to exploit the young and vulnerable and fill our neighborhoods with senseless gun violence and harmful drug operations, the FBI will use every available resource to identify and dismantle your operation.”

    “This sentencing highlights the result of countless hours of dedicated effort from officers and investigators from LMPD and our partner agencies,” stated Chief Paul Humphrey. Each day they place their life on the line to remove criminals such as these from the streets, making Louisville a safer, better place.  The men and women of LMPD will not stop fighting against the scourge of violence and gang activity in our city. There is more work to do, but this particular group of criminals being sentenced and removed from our community is a move in the right direction.”

    According to court documents, Eric D. Mosley, 33, of Louisville, was sentenced on October 10, 2024, to 20 years in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances, distribution of methamphetamine, possession with intent to distribute cocaine, possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and possession of a stolen motor vehicle. Mosley was prohibited from possessing a firearm because he had previously been convicted of the following felony offenses.

    On December 1, 2015, in Jefferson Circuit Court, Mosley was convicted of enhanced possession of a controlled substance in the first degree, enhanced possession of drug paraphernalia, enhanced possession of marijuana, and enhanced possession of heroin.

    On December 1, 2014, in Jefferson Circuit Court, Mosley was convicted of enhanced trafficking in a controlled substance in the first degree, first offense, less than 4 grams of cocaine, receiving stolen property (firearm), enhanced possession of marijuana, and trafficking in a controlled substance in the first degree, first offense (less than 2 grams of heroin).

    Zaman Taylor, 24, of Louisville, was sentenced on October 3, 2024, to 20 years in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, for conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute controlled substances, eight counts of distribution of methamphetamine, two counts of possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl.

    Darrian Toogood, 27, of Louisville, was sentenced on June 6, 2024, to 6 months in prison, followed by 2 years of supervised release, for conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute controlled substances and two counts of distribution of methamphetamine.

    Devonzo Summers, 27, of Louisville, was sentenced on March 21, 2024, to 15 years in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, for conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute controlled substances, four counts of distribution of fentanyl, distribution of controlled substances, distribution of methamphetamine, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking.

    Barry Reed, 27, of Louisville, was sentenced on December 18, 2023, to 15 years in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, for conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute controlled substances, four counts of distribution of fentanyl, distribution of controlled substances, two counts of distribution of methamphetamine, possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, and possession of a stolen motor vehicle.

    Dazaray Rice, 30, of Louisville, was sentenced on November 9, 2023, to 3 years of probation, for conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute controlled substance and two counts of distribution of fentanyl.

    Aerion Cook, 24, of Louisville, was sentenced on November 2, 2023, to 10 years in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, for conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute controlled substances and three counts of distribution of methamphetamine.

    Khasi Jones, 31, of Louisville, was sentenced on November 2, 2023, to 5 years in prison, followed by 4 years of supervised release, for conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute controlled substances and six counts of distribution of fentanyl.

    Cedric Palmer, 28, of Louisville, was sentenced on October 12, 2023, to 5 years in prison, followed by 4 years of supervised release, for conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute controlled substances, distribution of controlled substances, and distribution of methamphetamine.

    Ricos Mosley, 36, of Louisville,was sentenced on August 17, 2023, to 5 years in prison, followed by 4 years of supervised release, for conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute controlled substances.

    There is no parole in the federal system.   

    This case was investigated by the FBI and LMPD, with assistance from the ATF, IRS-CI, DEA, Nelson County Sheriff’s Office, Bullitt County Sheriff’s Office, and Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Frank Dahl and Josh Porter prosecuted the case with assistance from Paralegal Aaron Cooper.

    This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at http://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

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    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Highway 101 — RCMP investigates two fatal collisions on Highway 101

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Kings District RCMP responded to two fatal collisions on Highway 101 over the weekend.

    On October 12 at approximately 8:26 a.m., Kings District RCMP, fire, and EHS responded to a five-vehicle collision on Highway 101 in Wolfville. RCMP officers learned that a transport truck travelling eastbound struck four vehicles that were stopped for construction on the highway. Two occupants of a black GMC Acadia, a 62-year old woman and a child, both of East Kingston, were located deceased at the scene. A third occupant of that same vehicle, a 40-year-old woman, was transported via EHS LifeFlight with life threatening injuries. No other injuries were reported to police.

    On October 14 at approximately 3:50 p.m., Kings District RCMP, fire, and EHS responded to a two-vehicle collision on Highway 101 in Berwick. The initial investigation indicates a Dodge Journey was travelling westbound and a Ford F150 was travelling eastbound when they collided. The driver and sole occupant of the Dodge Journey, a 38-year-old man of Middleton, was pronounced deceased at the scene. The 49-year-old driver and 19-year-old passenger of the F150, both of Greenwood, were transported to hospital by EHS with non-life threatening injuries.

    Highway 101 was closed for several hours during both incidents while an RCMP Collision Reconstructionist attended the scenes. Both investigations are ongoing.

    Our thoughts are with the victims’ families at this difficult time.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defendants prosecuted on federal firearms, drug charges

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

    SAVANNAH, GA: Newly returned indictments in the Southern District of Georgia include felony charges for illegal firearms possession and drug distribution, while additional defendants have been sentenced to federal prison or await further proceedings after pleading guilty to federal gun charges. 

    “Illegally possessed guns, particularly those converted to automatic fire, are a persistent threat to public safety,” said Jill E. Steinberg, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Georgia. “With our law enforcement partners, we are committed to eliminating these sources of violence in our communities.” 

    The cases are prosecuted as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods in collaboration with federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies, including the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the FBI, to reduce violent crime with measures that include targeting convicted felons who illegally possess guns.

    Those indicted in October include:

    • Javon Edwards, 30, of Savannah, charged with Possession of a Machine Gun, referring to a pistol converted to automatic fire with a “Glock switch”; and,
    • Travis Sanders, 44, of Savannah, charged with Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon.

    All indicted defendants are considered innocent unless and until proven guilty.

    Defendants recently adjudicated on federal firearms charges include:

    • Laron Thompson, a/k/a “Hollywood,” 38, of Savannah, was sentenced to 115 months in prison after pleading guilty to a drug conspiracy charge and to Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon. Thompson is one of 10 defendants, including Tyquian Bowman, a/k/a “Quando Rondo,” 24, of Savannah, indicted in 2023 in a Savannah-area drug trafficking conspiracy.
    • Jacqueline Christmas, 50, of Statesboro, was sentenced to 33 months in prison after pleading guilty to False Statement During the Purchase of a Firearm. An ATF investigation determined that Christmas purchased multiple handguns from a Bulloch County gun store, falsely claiming a legal owner was the buyer of the guns when they were actually purchased by and delivered in New York to Christmas’ brother-in-law, who since has pled guilty to related federal firearms charges.
    • Jakobian Sentell Jones, 25, of Warrenton, Ga., was sentenced to 60 months in prison and fined $1,500 after pleading guilty to Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon and Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine and Methamphetamine. Georgia State Patrol troopers found Jones in possession of a revolver during a traffic stop, and in possession of cocaine and methamphetamine during a subsequent search.
    • Othnell Christian Ferguson, 27, of Pembroke, Ga., was sentenced to 70 months in prison and fined $1,500 after pleading guilty to Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon. Statesboro police officers determined Ferguson possessed a pistol during a foot chase following a February 2023 traffic stop.
    • Kenyatta Dunn Nero, 40, of Augusta, awaits sentencing after pleading guilty to Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon. Richmond County deputies found a pistol in Nero’s vehicle during a July 2023 traffic stop. Nero has multiple previous criminal convictions on state charges that include illegal gun possession.
    • Jamal Brashad Hawkins, 22, of Swainsboro, Ga., awaits sentencing after pleading guilty to Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon. Emanuel County deputies found Hawkins in possession of a pistol after a traffic stop in June 2023.
    • Darnell Harold Miller, 25, of Savannah, awaits sentencing after pleading guilty to Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon. Savannah police in January found Miller in possession of a pistol while investigating a domestic disturbance.
    • Nathan Sparks, 27, of Savannah, awaits sentencing after pleading guilty to Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon. Savannah police found a pistol in Sparks’ waistband during a traffic stop. 
    • Anthony McQuarters, 31, of Hardeeville, S.C., awaits sentencing after pleading guilty to Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon. A Georgia State Patrol trooper arrested McQuarters on state charges following a chase on I-16 by multiple law enforcement agencies through Laurens, Treutlen, Emanuel, and Candler counties, and found pistols in his possession.
    • Christopher Jeramy Blair, 44, of Pembroke, Ga., awaits sentencing after pleading guilty to Possession of Firearms by a Convicted Felon. Acting on a tip, investigators from the Bulloch County Sheriff’s Office and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives seized 11 handguns, rifles, and shotguns during a search of Blair’s residence.

    The cases are being prosecuted for the United States by the Southern District of Georgia U.S. Attorney’s Office.

    Under federal law, it is illegal for an individual to possess a firearm if he or she falls into one of nine prohibited categories including being a felon; illegal alien; or unlawful user of a controlled substance. Further, it is unlawful to possess a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense or violent crime. It is also illegal to purchase – or even to attempt to purchase – firearms if the buyer is a prohibited person or illegally purchasing a firearm on behalf of others. Lying on ATF Form 4473, which is used to lawfully purchase a firearm, also is a federal offense. 

    For more information from the ATF on the lawful purchasing of firearms, please see: https://www.atf.gov/qa-category/atfw-form-4473

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Horry County Man Pleads Guilty to Possession of Machine Gun and Machine Gun Conversion Devices

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

    FLORENCE, S.C. —Orlanier Colon Menendez, 21, of Conway has pleaded guilty to possession of a machine gun and multiple machine gun conversion devices.

    Evidence obtained in the investigation revealed that Conway Police Department officers responded to a vehicle crash within the city limits involving Menendez. While investigating the crash, the responding officer found a .45 caliber handgun that had a machine gun conversion device installed on the firearm. During a search, officers found a backpack that contained an additional 12 machinegun conversion devices, also known as Glock conversion switches, and a rotary tool with accessories commonly used to install the devices.

    Menendez faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison. He also faces a fine of up to $250,000, restitution, and three years of supervision to follow the term of imprisonment.  United States District Judge Joseph Dawson accepted the guilty plea and will sentence Menendez after receiving and reviewing a sentencing report prepared by the U.S. Probation Office.

    This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Conway Police Department. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Scott Hixson is prosecuting the case.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cassini Mission: 5 Things to Know About NASA Lewis’ Last Launch

    Source: NASA

    NASA’s ambitious Cassini mission to Saturn in the late 1990s was one of the agency’s greatest accomplishments, providing unprecedented revelations about the esoteric outer planet and its moons. The complex undertaking was also a tremendous, yet bittersweet, achievement for the Lewis Research Center (today, NASA’s Glenn Research Center in Cleveland), which oversaw the rockets that propelled Cassini to Saturn. Cassini brought a close to over 35 years of Lewis’ management of NASA’s launch vehicles.

    1. NASA Lewis Launched the Largest and Most Complex Deep-Space Mission to Date
    In the early 1980s, NASA began planning the first-ever in-depth study of the planet Saturn. The mission would use the Cassini orbiter designed by NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Southern California and the European Space Agency’s Huygens lander. It was one of the heaviest and most complex interplanetary spacecraft ever assembled. Cassini’s plutonium power system and intricate flight path further complicated the mission.
    NASA Lewis was responsible for managing the launches of government missions involving the Centaur upper stage and the Atlas and Titan boosters. Cassini’s 6-ton payload forced Lewis to use the U.S. Air Force’s three-stage Titan IV, the most powerful vehicle available, and pair it with the most advanced version of the Centaur, referred to as G-prime.

    2. Lewis Performed Hardware Testing for the Cassini Launch
    One of NASA Lewis’ primary launch responsibilities was integrating the payload and upper stages with the booster. This involved balancing weight requirements, providing adequate insulation for Centaur’s cryogenic propellants, determining correct firing times for the stages, and ensuring that that the large shroud, which encapsulated both the upper stage and payload, jettisoned cleanly after launch.
    By the time of Cassini, the center had been testing shrouds (including the Titan III fairing) in simulated space conditions for over 25 years. NASA’s Space Power Facility possesses the world’s largest vacuum chamber and was large enough to accommodate the Titan IV’s 86-foot-tall, 16-foot-diameter fairing. In the fall of 1990, the shroud was installed in the chamber, loaded with weights that simulated the payload, and subjected to atmospheric pressures found at an altitude of 72 miles.
    The system was successfully separated in less than half a second. Using simulated Cassini and Centaur vehicles, NASA engineers also redesigned a thicker thermal blanket that would protect Cassini’s power system from acoustic vibrations during liftoff.

    3. Lewis Personnel Assisted with the Launch
    In late August 1997, a group of NASA Lewis engineers traveled to NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida to make final preparations for the Cassini launch, working with Air Force range safety personnel at Patrick Air Force Base to ensure a safe launch under all circumstances.
    After an aborted launch two days earlier, the vehicle was readied for another attempt in the evening of October 14. Lewis personnel took stations in the Launch Vehicle Data Center inside Hangar AE to monitor the launch vehicle’s temperature, pressure, speed, trajectory, and vibration during the launch. The weather was mild, and the countdown proceeded into the morning hours of October 15 without any major issues.
    At 4:43 a.m. EDT, Titan’s first stage and the two massive solid rocket motors roared to life, and the vehicle rose into the dark skies over Florida. The Lewis launch team monitored the flight as the vehicle exited Earth’s atmosphere, Titan burned through its stages, and Centaur sent Cassini out of Earth orbit and on its 2-billion-mile journey to Saturn. After a successful spacecraft separation, Lewis’ responsibilities were complete. The launch had gone exceedingly well. 

    4. Cassini-Huygens Brought a Close to Decades of Lewis Launch Operations
    Cassini-Huygens was NASA Lewis’ 119th and final launch, and it brought to a close the center’s decades of launch operations. The center had been responsible for NASA’s upper-stage vehicles since the fall of 1962. The primary stages were the Agena, which had 28 successful launches, and Centaur, which has an even more impressive track record and remains in service today.
    While Lewis continued to handle vehicle integration and other technical issues for launches of NASA payloads, in the 1980s, NASA began transferring launch responsibilities to commercial entities. In the mid-1990s, NASA underwent a major realignment that consolidated all launch vehicle responsibilities at NASA Kennedy.
    So it was with mixed emotions that around 20 Lewis employees and retirees gathered at the Cleveland center in the early morning hours of Oct. 15, 1997, to watch the Cassini launch. The group held its cheers for 40 minutes after liftoff until Lewis’ responsibilities concluded for the last time with the safe separation of Cassini from Centaur. “In many ways, this is the end of an era, across the agency and, in particular, here at Lewis,” noted one engineer from the Launch Vehicle and Transportation Office.

    5. Cassini Made Groundbreaking Discoveries That Inform Today’s NASA Missions
    Cassini’s seven-year voyage to Saturn included flybys of Venus (twice), Earth, and Jupiter so that the planets’ gravitational forces could accelerate the spacecraft. Cassini entered Saturn’s orbit in June 2004 and began relaying data and nearly half a million images back to Earth. Huygens separated from the spacecraft and descended to the surface of the Saturn’s largest moon, Titan, in January 2005. It was the first time a vehicle ever landed on a celestial body in the outer solar system.
    Cassini went on to make plunges into the planet’s upper atmosphere and through Saturn’s rings.  Scientific information on the mysterious planet, its moons, and rings led to the publication of nearly 4,000 technical papers. After over 13 years and nearly 300 orbits, on Sept. 15, 2017, NASA intentionally sent Cassini plummeting into the atmosphere where it burned up, ending its remarkable mission.
    NASA engineers used their experiences from the Cassini mission to help design the Europa Clipper, which is intended to perform flybys of Jupiter’s moon Europa. Europa Clipper launched on Oct. 14.
    Keep Exploring

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SCHUMER ANNOUNCES NEW $750 MILLION PRELIMINARY INVESTMENT FOR WOLFSPEED FROM HIS CHIPS & SCIENCE LAW; SENATOR SAYS NEW $$$ WILL HELP ACCELERATE ONGOING MOHAWK VALLEY EXPANSION & SUPPORT HUNDREDS OF…

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New York Charles E Schumer

    Includes $750M Agreement For Funding From Schumer’s CHIPS Act & $750M Private Investment, Boosting Wolfspeed’s Ongoing Expansion In Upstate NY And Building A New North Carolina Facility Which Sends Wafers To Oneida County’s Marcy Nanocenter To Be Finished, Providing Long Term Work For Mohawk Valley

    Wolfspeed Says It Also Plans To Tap Up To Nearly $1 Billion From The CHIPS ITC That Schumer Created To Help Fund Completion Of Mohawk Valley Plant

    Schumer: My CHIPS & Science Law Is Bringing Wolfspeed To Front Of The Pack & Helping Mohawk Valley Lead America’s Semiconductor Renaissance

    U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer today announced Wolfspeed has reached a $750 million preliminary memorandum of terms (PMT) funding agreement under the CHIPS & Science Law he led in writing and passing into law, helping them unlock an additional $750 million in private investment. Wolfspeed also said it plans to tap nearly $1 billion from the CHIPS Investment Tax Credit that Schumer helped create to fund much of the state-of-the-art equipment being installed to complete the expansion their Silicon Carbide Fabrication Facility at Marcy Nanocenter in Oneida County.

    Wolfspeed said this massive collective investment will help accelerate their ongoing expansion in the Mohawk Valley and boosting good-paying jobs expected to be created at the Marcy facility. This CHIPS investment will also support Wolfspeed’s new North Carolina Siler City facility which is integral to the Mohawk Valley’s future as it will send wafers to be finished in NY, creating long term work and future growth opportunities for the Marcy operation.

    “Wolfspeed is leading the pack in bringing semiconductor manufacturing back to America. This major multibillion investment powered by my CHIPS & Science Law will accelerate the ongoing expansion in the Mohawk Valley, helping boost hundreds of good paying jobs and providing long term work for the Marcy fab to succeed well into the future,” said Senator Schumer. “From electric vehicles to artificial intelligence, so much critical technology relies on the silicon carbide chips that Wolfspeed will manufacture and perfect in the Mohawk Valley. Today’s massive investment will make America’s economy and our national security stronger as Wolfspeed helps us write the next chapter of America’s resurgence as the leader in the semiconductor industry, with the Mohawk Valley as the beating heart.”

    Schumer explained that Wolfspeed’s Mohawk Valley Fab is the largest and one of the only 200mm Silicon Carbide fabrication facilities in the world. Wolfspeed officially opened their new fab in 2022 and is actively expanding with approximately $790 million in additional capital planned investment in the Mohawk Valley which will help support new good paying manufacturing and construction jobs to the region. The proposed CHIPS investment would also support the construction of Wolfspeed’s silicon carbide wafer manufacturing facility in North Carolina. Nearly all of the wafers from Wolfspeed’s new facility in Siler City, NC are needed and sent to the Mohawk Valley Fab to be finished and this investment is essential to ramp up chip production in New York. The proposed CHIPS funding will support the Mohawk Valley fab to increase its production capacity by approximately 30%.

    To achieve this increase in capacity in the Mohawk Valley, Wolfspeed will purchase and install additional tools & equipment in the Mohawk Valley, such as photolithography tools, ion implanters, metal deposition tools, etch systems, automation equipment and more that will be support by the Investment Tax Credit from the CHIPS & Science Law.

    The proposed $750 million in CHIPS funding will also help catalyze private capital investment of at least $750 million to support the company’s expansion plans. This injection of private capital would not have occurred were it not for the CHIPS and Science Act. Wolfspeed is the world’s leading manufacturer of wafers and devices made from silicon carbide, a compound which has favorable chemical and material properties compared to traditional silicon, enabling Wolfspeed’s semiconductors to be highly energy-efficient and durable. The silicon carbide devices manufactured by Wolfspeed power electric vehicles (EVs) and plug-in hybrids, enabling extended driving range-per-charge, faster charging times, and lower overall systems costs, they also are vital for artificial intelligence and in military applications critical for national security.

    Oneida County Executive Anthony J. Picente Jr. said, “We thank Senator Schumer for securing $750 million in funding for Wolfspeed from his historic CHIPS & Science Law. This transformative investment will accelerate hundreds of good-paying jobs in Oneida County and further elevate our region as a leader in semiconductor production. As Wolfspeed enhances its capabilities, we look forward to the opportunities this brings for our workforce and our future in the Mohawk Valley.”

    Acting President of Mohawk Valley EDGE Shawna Papale said, “On behalf of Mohawk Valley EDGE, we commend the Department of Commerce for reaching a preliminary agreement with Wolfspeed to leverage more than $2.5 billion of investment including over $750 million in CHIPS Act grant funding. The growth of the Mohawk Valley Fab is hinged on the ability of Siler City to produce 200mm silicon carbide wafers to supply Wolfspeed’s Mohawk Valley Fab. Thanks to Senate Majority Leader Schumer, this CHIPs announcement accelerates hiring towards Wolfspeed’s job target of over 600 employees and increases production capacity at the Marcy Nanocenter. This was a true collaboration across local, county, State, and Federal officials along with the leadership of Wolfspeed to make the dream of recreating American made manufacturing a reality right here in Oneida County.”

    Last week, Schumer announced Edwards Vacuum reached a $18 million CHIPS PMT to build its new $300+ million dry pump manufacturing facility for the semiconductor industry, the first of its kind for America, in Western NY. Earlier this year, Schumer also announced that Micron, which plans to invest $100 billion over the next two decades – the largest private investment in New York’ s history – reached a $6.1 billion CHIPS PMT funding agreement. In addition, GlobalFoundries in the Capital Region also reached an agreement for $1.5 billion in direct grant funding under his CHIPS & Science Law to support a $12.5 billion public-private investment over the next ten plus years to expand and construct a second, new state-of-the-art computer chip factory in Malta, NY. 

    Schumer added, “The CHIPS & Science Law keeps helping grow the booming semiconductor industry in Upstate NY. We are seeing more targeted federal investment than ever before to bring back manufacturing, and awards like this show how the I-90 corridor from Buffalo to Syracuse to Utica to Albany truly is becoming America’s semiconductor superhighway.”

    Schumer has long worked to position the Mohawk Valley for semiconductor investment. In addition to his efforts on further recruiting chip suppliers to Marcy Nanocenter, Schumer secured $2 million in U.S. DOL funding for the Workforce Development Board of Herkimer, Madison and Oneida Counties and Mohawk Valley Community College (MVCC) to boost technical training to support the expansion and attraction of the semiconductor industry. Schumer also secured $2 million for MVCC to create a new state-of-the-art semiconductor and advanced manufacturing training center.

    Schumer is also actively working with Mohawk Valley EDGE to help lure additional semiconductor and supply chain companies to Marcy Nanocenter which will get a further boost from Wolfspeed and Micron’s expansions in the region.

    Schumer said, “Marcy Nanocenter is one of the most shovel-ready sites in the whole country and with this investment helping to strengthen Wolfspeed and with Micron rapidly establishing itself in the broader region, I am going all out to land more companies to make the Mohawk Valley a central component of bringing semiconductor manufacturing back to America.”

    Thanks to Schumer’s CHIPS & Science Law, Upstate New York has seen a major revival in tech manufacturing. Micron has announced plans for a historic $100+ billion investment to build a cutting-edge memory fab in Central New York. GlobalFoundries plans to invest over $12 billion to expand and construct a second, new state-of-the-art computer chip factory in the Capital Region. TTM Technologies, a printed circuit board manufacturer, plans to invest up to $130 million to expand their facilities in Onondaga County, creating up to 400 good-paying jobs. Menlo Micro will invest $150 million to build their microchip switch manufacturing facility in Tompkins County, creating over 100 new good-paying jobs. In addition, Upstate New York is home to semiconductor supply chain companies like Corning Incorporated, which manufactures glass critical to the microchip industry at its Canton and Fairport, NY plants. Edwards Vacuum is also moving forward with a $300+ million investment to build a dry pump manufacturing facility in Western New York, creating 600 good-paying jobs to support the growing chip industry in Upstate New York and across the nation.

    The PMT outlines key terms for Wolfspeed’s CHIPS agreement. To finalize the federal CHIPS agreement, the Commerce Department will now begin a comprehensive due diligence process on the proposed project and other information contained in the application. After satisfactory completion of the due diligence phase, the Commerce Department will finalize the PMT.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NCDHHS Urges Safety Measures for Heating Homes in Western NC as Temperatures Drop

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: NCDHHS Urges Safety Measures for Heating Homes in Western NC as Temperatures Drop

    NCDHHS Urges Safety Measures for Heating Homes in Western NC as Temperatures Drop
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    As cooler weather arrives in western North Carolina, the NC Department of Health and Human Services urges individuals, families and communities impacted by Hurricane Helene to take safety precautions when heating homes, buildings or other enclosed spaces.

    Using gas or wood-burning heat sources without proper safety measures can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning and other hazards, especially if fuel sources or appliances have been damaged by the storm.

    Safe Practices for Wood-Burning Stoves
    Properly installed, correctly used wood-burning appliances should generate very little smoke. If you regularly see or smell smoke, you may have a problem. Take the following steps to reduce smoke inside and outside your home: 

    • What NOT to burn: Do not burn household trash (including cardboard, plastics, foam, magazines, boxes and wrappers), coated wood, painted wood, pressure-treated wood, driftwood, plywood, particle board, wood with any glue on it, wet or green wood, rotted wood, moldy wood, asbestos, rubber, manure or animal remains. These materials can release toxic or harmful chemicals when burned and may also damage your stove.
    • What to burn: Try to burn mainly dry, split, well-seasoned wood. Properly seasoned wood is darker, weighs less and sounds hollow when hit against another piece of wood. You can also use branches, sticks or limbs from fallen trees that are off the ground. Do not use wet or green wood.
    • Use a starter: Start fires with newspaper, dry kindling or all-natural fire starters. Never start a fire in a wood-burning stove with gasoline, kerosene or charcoal starter.
    • Keep flammable items away: Maintain a safe distance between stoves and items like curtains, furniture, newspapers, books or paper. Regularly remove ashes into a covered, metal container, and store the container outdoors on a nonflammable surface.
    • Keep the fire hot and door closed: For most appliances, a smoldering fire is not safe or efficient. Build a hot fire and keep the doors of your wood-burning appliance closed unless loading or stoking the live fire. Harmful chemicals, like carbon monoxide, can be released into your home through an open stove door.
    • Keep a fire extinguisher handy: In case of a fire, have a fire extinguisher, fire blanket or ample sand or water on-hand to put it out before it can spread. 

    Safe Practices for Generators and Fuel-Burning Heat Sources
    In previous hurricanes in North Carolina, people have died from carbon monoxide poisoning caused by generators running indoors. Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless gas produced whenever fuel is burned. In an enclosed space, such as a home, garage, car or camper, carbon monoxide can build up to deadly levels quickly. 

    High levels of carbon monoxide can be deadly within minutes. Carbon monoxide poisoning can be fatal to anyone, especially children, pregnant women, older adults and those with chronic illness. People who are sleeping can die from carbon monoxide poisoning without ever becoming aware of their symptoms. 

    Anyone testing or using a generator or other fuel burning device during should take proper safety precautions, including the following: 

    • Do not use gasoline-powered tools or engines in enclosed or partially enclosed spaces. Use them outdoors at least 20 feet from all doors, windows and air vents.
    • Do not use charcoal grills or propane stoves indoors, even in a fireplace.
    • Never use the kitchen stove or other gas appliances to heat your home.
    • Do not idle your car, truck or other vehicle in the garage, even if the garage door to the outside is open. Fumes can build up quickly in the garage and living area of your home.
    • Keep rooms well ventilated.
    • Read and follow all instructions that accompany fuel-burning devices. Use the proper fuel and make sure there is enough air for ventilation and fuel burning. 

    Even low levels of carbon monoxide can cause dizziness, fatigue, nausea, headaches, confusion or fainting. If you are experiencing these symptoms, get to fresh air immediately and seek medical attention as soon as possible.

    For additional questions on how to safely use woodstoves and generators and prevent carbon monoxide poisoning, contact the Occupational and Environmental Epidemiology Branch, NC Division of Public Health, NCDHHS, at 919-707-5900. For more information about Hurricane Helene and resources available for people who are impacted, please go to ncdhhs.gov/helene and ncdps.gov/helene. 

    A medida que el clima más frío llega al oeste de Carolina del Norte, el Departamento de Salud y Servicios Humanos de Carolina del Norte pide a las personas, familias y comunidades afectadas por el huracán Helene que tomen precauciones de seguridad al calentar casas, edificios u otros espacios cerrados.

    El uso de fuentes de calor de gas o leña sin las medidas de seguridad adecuadas puede provocar intoxicación por monóxido de carbono y otros peligros, especialmente si las fuentes de combustible o los electrodomésticos han sido dañados por la tormenta.

    Prácticas seguras para estufas de leña
    Los electrodomésticos de leña correctamente instalados y utilizados de manera adecuada deben generar muy poco humo. Si ve u huele humo con regularidad, es posible que tenga un problema. Tome las siguientes medidas para reducir el humo dentro y fuera de su hogar: 

    • Qué NO quemar: No queme basura doméstica (incluyendo cartón, plásticos, espuma, revistas, cajas y envoltorios), madera revestida, madera pintada, madera tratada a presión, madera a la deriva, madera contrachapada, aglomerados de madera, madera con cualquier pegamento, madera húmeda o verde, madera podrida, madera mohosa, asbesto/amianto, caucho/goma, estiércol o restos de animales. Estos materiales pueden liberar productos químicos tóxicos o nocivos cuando se queman y también pueden dañar su estufa.
    • Qué SÍ quemar: Intente quemar principalmente madera seca, partida y bien curada. La madera correctamente curada es más oscura, pesa menos y suena hueca cuando se golpea contra otra pieza de madera. También puede usar ramas, palos o ramas de árboles caídos que están fuera del suelo. No utilice madera húmeda o verde.
    • Use un material de arranque: Inicie el fuego con periódicos, leña seca o iniciadores de fuego totalmente naturales. Nunca encienda un fuego en una estufa de leña con gasolina, queroseno o arrancador de carbón.
    • Mantenga los artículos inflamables alejados: Mantenga una distancia segura entre las estufas y artículos como cortinas, muebles, periódicos, libros o papel. Retire regularmente las cenizas en un recipiente de metal cubierto y guárdelo al aire libre en una superficie no inflamable.
    • Mantenga el fuego caliente y la puerta cerrada: Para la mayoría de los electrodomésticos, un fuego ardiente no es seguro ni eficiente. Logre un fuego caliente y mantenga las puertas de su electrodoméstico de leña cerradas a menos que cargue o alimente el fuego vivo. Los productos químicos nocivos, como el monóxido de carbono, pueden liberarse en su hogar a través de una puerta abierta de la estufa.
    • Tenga un extintor a mano: En caso de incendio, tenga a mano un extintor, una manta contra incendios o suficiente arena o agua para apagarlo antes de que se propague. 

    Prácticas seguras para generadores y fuentes de calor que queman combustible
    En huracanes anteriores en Carolina del Norte, las personas han muerto por envenenamiento por monóxido de carbono causado por generadores encendidos en interiores. El monóxido de carbono es un gas inodoro e incoloro que se produce cada vez que se quema combustible. En un espacio cerrado, como una casa, un garaje, un automóvil o una autocaravana, el monóxido de carbono puede acumularse a niveles mortales rápidamente. 

    Los altos niveles de monóxido de carbono pueden ser mortales en cuestión de minutos. La intoxicación por monóxido de carbono puede ser fatal para cualquier persona, especialmente niños, mujeres embarazadas, adultos mayores y personas con enfermedades crónicas. Las personas que duermen pueden morir por intoxicación por monóxido de carbono sin darse cuenta de sus síntomas. 

    Cualquier persona que pruebe o use un generador u otro dispositivo de combustión de combustible debe tomar las precauciones de seguridad adecuadas, incluidas las siguientes: 

    • No utilice herramientas o motores de gasolina en espacios cerrados o parcialmente cerrados. Úselos al aire libre al menos a 20 pies de distancia de todas las puertas, ventanas y salidas de aire.
    • No use parrillas de carbón o estufas de propano en interiores, incluso en una chimenea.
    • Nunca use la estufa de la cocina u otros electrodomésticos de gas para calentar su hogar.
    • No deje su coche, camión u otro vehículo encendido en el garaje, incluso si la puerta del garaje hacia el exterior está abierta. Los humos pueden acumularse rápidamente en el garaje y la sala de estar de su hogar.
    • Mantenga las habitaciones bien ventiladas.
    • Lea y siga todas las instrucciones que acompañan a los dispositivos de quema de combustible. Use el combustible adecuado y asegúrese de que haya suficiente aire para la ventilación y la quema de combustible. 

    Incluso los niveles bajos de monóxido de carbono pueden causar mareos, fatiga, náuseas, dolores de cabeza, confusión o desmayos. Si experimenta estos síntomas, salga al aire libre de inmediato y busque atención médica lo antes posible.

    Para preguntas adicionales sobre cómo usar estufas de leña y generadores de manera segura y prevenir la intoxicación por monóxido de carbono, comuníquese con la Sección de Epidemiología Ocupacional y Ambiental, División de Salud Pública de Carolina del Norte, Departamento de Salud y Servicios Humanos de Carolina del Norte, al 919-707-5900. Para obtener más información sobre el huracán Helene y los recursos disponibles para las personas afectadas, visite ncdhhs.gov/helene y ncdps.gov/helene. 

    Oct 15, 2024

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SCHUMER ANNOUNCES NEW $750 MILLION PRELIMINARY INVESTMENT FOR WOLFSPEED FROM HIS CHIPS & SCIENCE LAW; SENATOR SAYS NEW $$$ WILL HELP ACCELERATE ONGOING MOHAWK VALLEY EXPANSION & SUPPORT HUNDREDS OF…

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New York Charles E Schumer

    Includes $750M Agreement For Funding From Schumer’s CHIPS Act & $750M Private Investment, Boosting Wolfspeed’s Ongoing Expansion In Upstate NY And Building A New North Carolina Facility Which Sends Wafers To Oneida County’s Marcy Nanocenter To Be Finished, Providing Long Term Work For Mohawk Valley

    Wolfspeed Says It Also Plans To Tap Up To Nearly $1 Billion From The CHIPS ITC That Schumer Created To Help Fund Completion Of Mohawk Valley Plant

    Schumer: My CHIPS & Science Law Is Bringing Wolfspeed To Front Of The Pack & Helping Mohawk Valley Lead America’s Semiconductor Renaissance

    U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer today announced Wolfspeed has reached a $750 million preliminary memorandum of terms (PMT) funding agreement under the CHIPS & Science Law he led in writing and passing into law, helping them unlock an additional $750 million in private investment. Wolfspeed also said it plans to tap nearly $1 billion from the CHIPS Investment Tax Credit that Schumer helped create to fund much of the state-of-the-art equipment being installed to complete the expansion their Silicon Carbide Fabrication Facility at Marcy Nanocenter in Oneida County.

    Wolfspeed said this massive collective investment will help accelerate their ongoing expansion in the Mohawk Valley and boosting good-paying jobs expected to be created at the Marcy facility. This CHIPS investment will also support Wolfspeed’s new North Carolina Siler City facility which is integral to the Mohawk Valley’s future as it will send wafers to be finished in NY, creating long term work and future growth opportunities for the Marcy operation.

    “Wolfspeed is leading the pack in bringing semiconductor manufacturing back to America. This major multibillion investment powered by my CHIPS & Science Law will accelerate the ongoing expansion in the Mohawk Valley, helping boost hundreds of good paying jobs and providing long term work for the Marcy fab to succeed well into the future,” said Senator Schumer. “From electric vehicles to artificial intelligence, so much critical technology relies on the silicon carbide chips that Wolfspeed will manufacture and perfect in the Mohawk Valley. Today’s massive investment will make America’s economy and our national security stronger as Wolfspeed helps us write the next chapter of America’s resurgence as the leader in the semiconductor industry, with the Mohawk Valley as the beating heart.”

    Schumer explained that Wolfspeed’s Mohawk Valley Fab is the largest and one of the only 200mm Silicon Carbide fabrication facilities in the world. Wolfspeed officially opened their new fab in 2022 and is actively expanding with approximately $790 million in additional capital planned investment in the Mohawk Valley which will help support new good paying manufacturing and construction jobs to the region. The proposed CHIPS investment would also support the construction of Wolfspeed’s silicon carbide wafer manufacturing facility in North Carolina. Nearly all of the wafers from Wolfspeed’s new facility in Siler City, NC are needed and sent to the Mohawk Valley Fab to be finished and this investment is essential to ramp up chip production in New York. The proposed CHIPS funding will support the Mohawk Valley fab to increase its production capacity by approximately 30%.

    To achieve this increase in capacity in the Mohawk Valley, Wolfspeed will purchase and install additional tools & equipment in the Mohawk Valley, such as photolithography tools, ion implanters, metal deposition tools, etch systems, automation equipment and more that will be support by the Investment Tax Credit from the CHIPS & Science Law.

    The proposed $750 million in CHIPS funding will also help catalyze private capital investment of at least $750 million to support the company’s expansion plans. This injection of private capital would not have occurred were it not for the CHIPS and Science Act. Wolfspeed is the world’s leading manufacturer of wafers and devices made from silicon carbide, a compound which has favorable chemical and material properties compared to traditional silicon, enabling Wolfspeed’s semiconductors to be highly energy-efficient and durable. The silicon carbide devices manufactured by Wolfspeed power electric vehicles (EVs) and plug-in hybrids, enabling extended driving range-per-charge, faster charging times, and lower overall systems costs, they also are vital for artificial intelligence and in military applications critical for national security.

    Oneida County Executive Anthony J. Picente Jr. said, “We thank Senator Schumer for securing $750 million in funding for Wolfspeed from his historic CHIPS & Science Law. This transformative investment will accelerate hundreds of good-paying jobs in Oneida County and further elevate our region as a leader in semiconductor production. As Wolfspeed enhances its capabilities, we look forward to the opportunities this brings for our workforce and our future in the Mohawk Valley.”

    Acting President of Mohawk Valley EDGE Shawna Papale said, “On behalf of Mohawk Valley EDGE, we commend the Department of Commerce for reaching a preliminary agreement with Wolfspeed to leverage more than $2.5 billion of investment including over $750 million in CHIPS Act grant funding. The growth of the Mohawk Valley Fab is hinged on the ability of Siler City to produce 200mm silicon carbide wafers to supply Wolfspeed’s Mohawk Valley Fab. Thanks to Senate Majority Leader Schumer, this CHIPs announcement accelerates hiring towards Wolfspeed’s job target of over 600 employees and increases production capacity at the Marcy Nanocenter. This was a true collaboration across local, county, State, and Federal officials along with the leadership of Wolfspeed to make the dream of recreating American made manufacturing a reality right here in Oneida County.”

    Last week, Schumer announced Edwards Vacuum reached a $18 million CHIPS PMT to build its new $300+ million dry pump manufacturing facility for the semiconductor industry, the first of its kind for America, in Western NY. Earlier this year, Schumer also announced that Micron, which plans to invest $100 billion over the next two decades – the largest private investment in New York’ s history – reached a $6.1 billion CHIPS PMT funding agreement. In addition, GlobalFoundries in the Capital Region also reached an agreement for $1.5 billion in direct grant funding under his CHIPS & Science Law to support a $12.5 billion public-private investment over the next ten plus years to expand and construct a second, new state-of-the-art computer chip factory in Malta, NY. 

    Schumer added, “The CHIPS & Science Law keeps helping grow the booming semiconductor industry in Upstate NY. We are seeing more targeted federal investment than ever before to bring back manufacturing, and awards like this show how the I-90 corridor from Buffalo to Syracuse to Utica to Albany truly is becoming America’s semiconductor superhighway.”

    Schumer has long worked to position the Mohawk Valley for semiconductor investment. In addition to his efforts on further recruiting chip suppliers to Marcy Nanocenter, Schumer secured $2 million in U.S. DOL funding for the Workforce Development Board of Herkimer, Madison and Oneida Counties and Mohawk Valley Community College (MVCC) to boost technical training to support the expansion and attraction of the semiconductor industry. Schumer also secured $2 million for MVCC to create a new state-of-the-art semiconductor and advanced manufacturing training center.

    Schumer is also actively working with Mohawk Valley EDGE to help lure additional semiconductor and supply chain companies to Marcy Nanocenter which will get a further boost from Wolfspeed and Micron’s expansions in the region.

    Schumer said, “Marcy Nanocenter is one of the most shovel-ready sites in the whole country and with this investment helping to strengthen Wolfspeed and with Micron rapidly establishing itself in the broader region, I am going all out to land more companies to make the Mohawk Valley a central component of bringing semiconductor manufacturing back to America.”

    Thanks to Schumer’s CHIPS & Science Law, Upstate New York has seen a major revival in tech manufacturing. Micron has announced plans for a historic $100+ billion investment to build a cutting-edge memory fab in Central New York. GlobalFoundries plans to invest over $12 billion to expand and construct a second, new state-of-the-art computer chip factory in the Capital Region. TTM Technologies, a printed circuit board manufacturer, plans to invest up to $130 million to expand their facilities in Onondaga County, creating up to 400 good-paying jobs. Menlo Micro will invest $150 million to build their microchip switch manufacturing facility in Tompkins County, creating over 100 new good-paying jobs. In addition, Upstate New York is home to semiconductor supply chain companies like Corning Incorporated, which manufactures glass critical to the microchip industry at its Canton and Fairport, NY plants. Edwards Vacuum is also moving forward with a $300+ million investment to build a dry pump manufacturing facility in Western New York, creating 600 good-paying jobs to support the growing chip industry in Upstate New York and across the nation.

    The PMT outlines key terms for Wolfspeed’s CHIPS agreement. To finalize the federal CHIPS agreement, the Commerce Department will now begin a comprehensive due diligence process on the proposed project and other information contained in the application. After satisfactory completion of the due diligence phase, the Commerce Department will finalize the PMT.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Halifax Regional Municipality — RCMP stops sixteen impaired drivers in HRM over long weekend

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Over the Thanksgiving weekend, RCMP officers in the Halifax Regional Municipality arrested two impaired drivers and suspended the licences of an additional fourteen drivers.

    On October 11, at approximately 5:55 p.m., RCMP Halifax Regional Detachment responded to a report of a driver who appeared to be passed out behind the wheel of a Hyundai Santa Fe. The vehicle was stopped in an intersection on Sackville Dr. in Lower Sackville. Upon arrival, the man displayed severe signs of impairment. He refused to comply with the demand of a standard field sobriety test, and was arrested for Operation while Impaired by Drug.

    That same evening, between 9:10 p.m. and 11:40 p.m., RCMP officers stopped three drivers who provided breath samples into an approved screening device (ASD) with results over the Provincial limit of 50 mg%.

    Throughout the day of October 12, traffic stops completed by RCMP officers involved four other drivers who provided breath samples into an ASD with results over the Provincial limit of 50 mg%.

    On October 13, between 10:50 a.m. and 11:20 p.m., another six drivers provided breath samples that yielded results over the 50 mg% Provincial limit.

    On October 14, at approximately 3:10 p.m., an officer from the RCMP Halifax Regional Detachment Traffic Unit completed a traffic stop on a Ford Fusion near the intersection of Windmill Rd. and Ralston Ave. in Dartmouth. The driver, a 27-year-old Middle Sackville man, provided a roadside breath sample into an ASD which resulted in a “fail”. He was arrested and transported to the Lower Sackville RCMP Detachment where he provided breath samples that registered 110 mg% and 100 mg%.

    Also, at 3:10 p.m., a second RCMP officer, this time in the Timberlea area, stopped a sport utility vehicle travelling on Timberlea Village Parkway. The driver, a 31-year-old Timberlea woman, provided a breath sample into an ASD with results over the Provincial limit of 50 mg%.

    The two drivers arrested for Impaired Operation of a Conveyance were later released and are both scheduled to appear in court at later dates. All fourteen drivers with blood alcohol concentrations between 50 mg% and 80 mg% were issued immediate driving suspensions.

    If you suspect an impaired driver, it’s an emergency; call 911.

    File #’s 24-140024, 24-140130, 24-140140, 24-140162, 24-140222, 24-140241, 24-140626, 24-140667, 24-140802, 24-140887, 24-140976, 24-141169, 24-141183, 24-141213, 24-141436, 24-141437

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Deer Lake — RCMP Traffic Services West stops excessive speeder on TCH during Thanksgiving Weekend

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    A young driver was stopped for excessive speeding by RCMP Traffic Services West on the Trans-Canada Highway over the Thanksgiving weekend.

    On Monday, October 14, 2024, RCMPTraffic Services West were on patrol on the TCH near Birchy Lake and observed a car traveling at 163 km/hr. The vehicle was stopped and the 17-year-old driver was ticketed for the excessive speed and issued a licence suspension. The vehicle was seized and impounded.

    RCMP Traffic Services remains dedicated to road safety and the enforcement of the Highway Traffic Act. Please report incidents of dangerous driving or excessive speeding to your local police detachment.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Global: In the age of supposed anti-ambition, is Kamala Harris’s pro-work message resonating?

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Scott Schieman, Professor of Sociology and Canada Research Chair, University of Toronto

    “Our ambition and aspiration should be baseline, and we should aspire and have the ambition and plan to do more … I want Americans and families to not just get by but to be able to get ahead.” United States Vice President Kamala Harris, outlining her plan to build an “opportunity economy” in a recent speech.

    As a sociologist who studies how people think and talk about getting ahead in life, I’ve been struck by the tsunami of anti-ambition rhetoric in recent years that seems at odds with Harris’s messaging.

    A prominent 2022 feature in The New York Times Magazine’s Future of Work issue, for example, proclaimed a new “Age of Anti-Ambition.”

    While many joined the “ambition is out” chorus, a softer refrain suggested that ambition had merely become quiet as Fortune magazine reported people were “no longer chasing achievement for achievements’ sake.”

    Given all the anti-ambition rhetoric, it’s reasonable to ask: is Harris’s message about ambition resonating with voters with less than a month until the presidential election? Does anyone still believe ambition is important for getting ahead?

    Shifts in sentiment

    Let’s look at some data. The General Social Survey (GSS) — the gold standard for tracking American attitudes and beliefs since the 1970s — asks a set of questions about the importance that people give to different ways of getting ahead in life.

    The list includes “ambition,” “hard work,” “a good education,” “coming from a wealthy family,” “knowing the right people,” etc. For each, respondents select from these response options: “essential,” “very important,” “fairly important,” “not very important” and “not at all important.”

    In 1987, the first time the GSS presented these questions, 43 per cent of American workers said that ambition was “essential” to getting ahead; 44 per cent said it was “very important;” 11 per cent said it was “fairly important;” and only two per cent said “not very/not at all important.”

    Most respondents to the GSS say ambition is important or very important to success, both years ago and more recently.
    (Mimi Thian/Unsplash)

    I didn’t believe that Americans had ditched ambition since then, but I needed data to test my hunch, so I solicited the research firm YouGov in 2023 and 2024 for two national surveys of 7,500 American workers. I call my study the MESSI (Measuring Employment Sentiments and Social Inequality).

    My 2024 survey finds that most American workers still believe in the importance of ambition, but sentiments have shifted.

    The share who now say ambition is “essential” dropped nine percentage points from 1987 to 34 per cent. While the share who said ambition was “very important” dipped by two points (now 42 per cent), the percentage who felt ambition was “fairly important” or “unimportant” increased by 11 points.

    This softening is noteworthy. But, then again, if we are truly in an anti-ambition era, would three-quarters of American workers still see ambition as very important or essential?

    Message falling flat?

    In her stump speeches, Harris often mentions the “dignity of work” and the power of “hard work.” But after years of anti-work rhetoric mixed with new anti-ambition language like “quiet quitting,” a message celebrating the importance of hard work to get ahead might fall flat.



    Read more:
    If companies want to stop quiet quitting they need to take burnout seriously

    Let’s return to the 1987 GSS. Back then, 91 per cent of working Americans said hard work was “very important” or “essential” to getting ahead.

    That dipped slightly to 89 per cent in 2021 and then dropped to 77 per cent by 2024.

    On one hand, an 11-point plunge might be seen as a concern. On the other hand, we could interpret the fact that almost eight in 10 American workers say that they still value hard work as a sign of its resilience — especially given the cultural onslaught against work’s reputation and the persistent narrative about employees being miserable in their jobs since 2021.



    Read more:
    New research debunks the ‘unhappy worker’ narrative, but finds most still believe it

    Willing to work harder

    According to a viral video on TikTok, quiet quitting is when you “quit the idea of going above and beyond.”

    Given quiet quitting’s popularity among anti-ambition/anti-work narratives, I wondered how Americans would respond to a GSS question that asks the extent of agreement or disagreement with the following: “I am willing to work harder than I have to in order to help the firm or organization I work for succeed.”

    If quiet quitting has truly reached astronomical levels, wouldn’t it make sense that most Americans would strongly disagree with that statement?

    Two GSS data points in 2006 and 2016, well before the COVID-19 pandemic, show that eight in 10 American workers said they were willing to work harder than necessary. In my 2023 and 2024 MESSI surveys, I found that dropped to six in 10. Now, a greater share neither endorses nor rejects giving a little extra. Ambivalence is a bit more of a standard response.

    ‘Hard work is good work’

    What’s the takeaway? Sweeping sociological claims that we’re living in an age of anti-ambition and that most people are quiet quitting simply aren’t justified.

    Yes, sentiments about the importance of ambition and hard work — and going above and beyond — have shifted. And even though that shift is quieter than media discourse would have you believe, economic pessimism remains entrenched despite objective evidence to the contrary.

    Harris may therefore have her work cut out for her in selling an “opportunity economy” message as election day draws closer. But as she has said: “Hard work is good work.”

    Scott Schieman receives funding from Social Science and Humanities Research Council.

    – ref. In the age of supposed anti-ambition, is Kamala Harris’s pro-work message resonating? – https://theconversation.com/in-the-age-of-supposed-anti-ambition-is-kamala-harriss-pro-work-message-resonating-240427

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Security: $5,000 Reward for Information Leading to Arrest of Man Wanted for Striking Officer With Vehicle and Fleeing

    Source: US Marshals Service

    Toledo, OH – The United States Marshals Service (USMS), Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force (NOVFTF) is seeking the public’s assistance in locating Benjamin Chapman, 32. Chapman is wanted in New York for assault, reckless endangerment, criminal possession of a controlled substance, resisting arrest, obstructing government officer, and fleeing an officer.

    Chapman is accused of striking an officer of the Town of Ulster, New York, Police Department with his vehicle on March 30, 2021. Chapman had been pulled over for a traffic violation and was found to be wanted on a warrant for criminal possession of a controlled substance issued by the Ulster Town Court. During the encounter, Chapman allegedly struck the officer with his vehicle and then fled the scene. The officer suffered injuries from the assault. Chapman has been on the run since this incident and has committed other violent offenses in other states.

    Chapman is described as a white male, standing 5-feet 7 inches tall and weighing approximately 190 lbs. Chapman has ties to Toledo, Ohio and Monroe, Michigan.

    Anyone with information concerning Chapman can contact the Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force at 1-866-4WANTED (1-866-492-6833), or you can submit a web tip. Reward money is available, and tipsters may remain anonymous.  Follow the U.S. Marshals on Twitter @USMSCleveland.  

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Cartwright Delivers More than $2 Million to Northeastern Pennsylvania Fire Departments

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Matt Cartwright (17th District of Pennsylvania)

    Today, U.S. Representative Matt Cartwright (PA-08), a senior member of the U.S. House Appropriations Committee, announced that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has awarded more than $2 million in federal funding to support 20 northeastern Pennsylvania firefighters and first responders through its Assistance to Firefighters (AFG) and Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response Grants (SAFER) grant programs.

    These grants will allow firefighters throughout Lackawanna, Luzerne, Monroe and Wayne counties to be appropriately staffed and equipped with critically needed equipment, protective gear, emergency vehicles, training and other resources necessary for protecting the public and emergency personnel from fire and related hazards.

    “Our fire departments are a first line of defense, keeping our communities safe and secure. These grants will help ensure these first responders have the personnel,  vehicles, training and everyday tools to ensure the safety of our neighborhoods and loved ones,” said Congressman Cartwright. “I am proud to stand with firefighters and  first responders in Congress. On the House Appropriations Committee, I will continue doing everything I can to support our dedicated heroes.”

    Luzerne County – $948,911 total

    The $344,500 in SAFER grants awarded to Luzerne County includes:

    Kunkle Fire Company – $344,500 to purchase protective personal equipment and to bolster recruitment and retention programs

    The $604,411 in AFG grants awarded to Luzerne County includes:

    City of Wilkes-Barre – $37,353 to purchase protective personal equipment gear cleaning equipment

    Freeland Fire Department – $117,654 to purchase essential firefighting hoses, nozzles and appliances

    Germania Hose Company – $154,286 to purchase 18 self-containing breathing apparatus systems

    Hanover Township Fire Department – $95,238 to purchase a source capture exhaust system to improve indoor air quality and reduce occupational hazard risks

    Kunkletown Volunteer Fire Company – $33,829 to purchase protective personal equipment gear cleaning equipment

    Mountain Top Hose Company No. 1 – $66,051 to purchase 18 sets of structural protective personal equipment

    Pittston Township Volunteer Fire Department – $28,571 to purchase protective personal equipment gear cleaning equipment

    Wright Township Volunteer Fire Association – $71,429 to purchase a source capture exhaust system to improve indoor air quality and reduce occupational hazard risks

    Lackawanna County – $414,597 total

    The $414,597 in AFG grants awarded to Lackawanna County includes:

    Archbald Community Ambulance – $53,333 to purchase a source capture exhaust system to improve indoor air quality and reduce occupational hazard risks

    Artisan Fire Company, Jermyn – $74,667 to purchase 13 sets of structural protective personal equipment (PPE) and PPE cleaning equipment

    City of Scranton – $68,182 to fund physical health exams and cancer screenings for 75 members of the department

    Scott Township Hose Company – $180,543 to purchase 18 self-containing breathing apparatus and six portable radios to improve on-scene communications

    Taylor Fire and Rescue – $24,762 to purchase protective personal equipment gear cleaning equipment

    Wilson Fire Company No. 1, Peckville – $13,110 to purchase protective personal equipment gear cleaning equipment

    Monroe County – $158,487 total

    The $158,487 in AFG grants awarded Monroe County includes:

    Pocono Mountain Regional EMS – $158,487 to purchase one automatic chest compression device and two defibrillators

    Wayne County – $530,953 total

    The $371,965 in SAFER grants awarded to Wayne County includes:

    Honesdale Hose Company No. 1 – $371,965 to purchase 15 sets of protective personal equipment and bolster training, recruitment and retention programs

    The $158,988 in AFG grants awarded Wayne County includes:

    Browndale Fire Company No. 1 – $22,857 to purchase protective personal equipment gear cleaning equipment

    Gouldsboro Volunteer Fire Company – $67,286 to purchase essential firefighting hoses, nozzles and appliances

    Shohola Township Volunteer Fire and Rescue- $68,845 to purchase essential firefighting hoses, nozzles and appliances

    The AFG and SAFER programs are administered by FEMA to ensure that local fire departments and nonaffiliated emergency medical service organizations have the personnel, resources and equipment they need to protect communities and emergency personnel from fires and other related hazards.

    More information on the AFG and SAFER programs is available at FEMA.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –