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  • MIL-OSI USA: Federal Assistance for Hurricane Helene Exceeds $286 Million

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Federal Assistance for Hurricane Helene Exceeds $286 Million

    Federal Assistance for Hurricane Helene Exceeds $286 Million

    FEMA Maintains Focus on Recovery for Helene Survivors While Preparing for Impacts of Hurricane Milton

    WASHINGTON – FEMA, under the direction of the Biden-Harris Administration, continues to lead a comprehensive, whole-of-government approach to assist communities impacted by Hurricane Helene. Federal assistance for survivors of Helene has now surpassed $286 million with an additional $180 million in mission assignments to federal partners. FEMA continues to coordinate recovery efforts while preparing for the anticipated landfall of Hurricane Milton along Florida’s Gulf Coast. 

    Administrator Deanne Criswell is on the ground directing FEMA’s response and recovery operations for the impacted states. The combined efforts of federal, state and local partners ensure that every available resource is mobilized to help those impacted by Hurricane Helene.

    As FEMA maintains its focus on Helene response and recovery, the agency is also fully engaged in support of local, tribal and state response efforts ahead of Hurricane Milton. Residents in the storm’s projected path are urged to stay informed and prepare now. 

    Hurricane Helene Response

    The agency is actively working alongside state, local and tribal partners to assess damage and support those affected by Helene. Nearly 7,000 federal personnel are deployed, including FEMA staff. To date, FEMA has shipped over 16.2 million meals, more than 13.9 million liters of water, 210 generators and more than 505,000 tarps to the region. FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams are on the ground in neighborhoods across the affected states helping survivors apply for assistance and connecting them with additional state, local, federal and voluntary agency resources.

    Disaster survivors in designated areas of Georgia, Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia can begin their recovery process by applying for federal assistance through FEMA. People with damage to their homes or personal property who live in these areas should apply for assistance, which may include upfront funds to help with essential items like food, water, baby formula and other emergency supplies. 

    Funds may also be available to repair storm-related damage to homes and personal property, as well as assistance to find a temporary place to stay. Homeowners and renters with damage to their home or personal property from previous disasters, whether they received FEMA funds or not, are still eligible to apply for and receive assistance for Helene.   

    There are three ways to apply for FEMA assistance:  

    Voluntary Organizations

    Voluntary agencies are supporting all affected states by providing critical feeding operations and support for survivors with hot and prepared meals and shelf-stable meals. Organizations are also providing personnel and resources to the hardest hit areas. The American Red Cross has hundreds of trained disaster workers providing comfort and operating shelters. 

    People can receive free services like cutting fallen trees, tarping roofs and mitigating mold with the help of Crisis Cleanup by calling 844-965-1386. The hotline is open through Oct. 11 and can connect people with volunteers from local relief organizations, community groups and the faith-based community who may be able to assist.  

    Additional support and assistance provided to each state includes: 

    Support for North Carolina

    Financial Support: FEMA has approved more than $40 million in housing and other types of assistance for over 30,000 households.

    Staffing: As response efforts continue in North Carolina, more than 1,000 FEMA staff are on the ground, with more arriving daily. Over 1,000 Urban Search and Rescue personnel remain in the field helping people. These teams have rescued or supported over 3,200 survivors to date. President Biden ordered an additional 500 active-duty troops equipped with advanced technological assets to the area to further strengthen recovery operations in Western North Carolina. This brings the total number of active-duty military personnel supporting the response to 1,500. Experienced FEMA leaders from around the country are in the field to bolster response efforts. 

    Sheltering: Shelter numbers continue to decline, with 18 shelters housing just under 800 occupants. Over 2,100 people who cannot return home are staying in safe and clean lodging through FEMA’s Transitional Sheltering Assistance program. Transitional Sheltering Assistance is available for North Carolinians displaced by Helene. Residents in declared counties who have applied for disaster assistance may be eligible to stay temporarily in a hotel or motel paid for by FEMA while they work on their long-term housing plan. People do not need to request this assistance. FEMA will notify them of their eligibility through an automated phone call, text message, and/or email, depending upon the method of communication they selected at the time of application for disaster assistance.

    Power and Cellular Restoration: As of today, more than 86% of originally reported power outages have been restored. Cellular restoration continues to improve, with more than 85% of cellular sites operating. FEMA is boosting response coordination by providing Starlink units to ensure first responders can communicate with each other. 

    Commodities: Commodity distribution, mass feeding, and hydration operations are underway in areas of western North Carolina. FEMA commodity shipments are enroute to support operations. Voluntary organizations are supporting feeding operations with bulk food and water deliveries coming via truck and aircraft. Mobile feeding operations are reaching survivors in heavily impacted areas, including three mass feeding sites in Buncombe, McDowell, and Watauga counties. 

    The Salvation Army has 20 mobile feeding units supporting the massive operation and has provided emotional and spiritual care to more than 2,400 people. To date, The Salvation Army has served over 34,000 meals, 14,500 drinks, and 10,200 snacks. The American Red Cross is engaging in targeted distribution of emergency supplies in low-income communities with high levels of minor or affected residential damage. 

    Resources: 

    • Residents can visit: ncdps.gov/helene to get information and additional assistance.  
    • Residents can get in touch with loved ones by calling 2-1-1 or visiting unitedwaync.org to add them to search and rescue efforts.  

    Support for Florida 

    Recovery efforts from Hurricane Helene continue in Florida even as the federal government is supporting the state in preparing for Hurricane Milton. FEMA has approved more than $129 million for over 35,000 households. FEMA specialists are canvassing Florida communities affected by Helene to help survivors apply for assistance. Additionally, FEMA inspectors are visiting applicants’ homes to verify disaster-caused damage.

    Residents in need of information or resources should call the State Assistance Information Line (SAIL) at 1-800-342-3557. English, Spanish and Creole speakers are available to answer questions.  

    Residents can find additional resources and information at Florida Division of Emergency Management’s website, FloridaDisaster.org. 

    Support for South Carolina

    In South Carolina, FEMA has approved over $65 million for more than 80,000 households. FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams are on the ground in neighborhoods across the affected counties continuing to help survivors apply for FEMA assistance and connect them with additional state, local, federal and voluntary agency resources.  

    Residents with questions on Helene can call the state’s toll-free hotline, open 24 hours a day, at 1-866-246-0133. 

    Residents who are dependent on medical equipment at home and who are without power due to Helene may be eligible for a medical needs shelter. Call the state’s Department of Public Health Care Line at 1-855-472-3432 for more information. 

    Residents can find additional information at South Carolina Emergency Management Division’s website. 

    Support for Georgia

    FEMA has approved over $48 million for more than 59,000 households.

    Resources: Residents can find resources like shelters and feeding sites at Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency.  

    Support for Virginia

    To date, FEMA has approved over $850,500 for over 123 households.

    Residents can find resources like shelters and feeding sites at Virginia Department of Emergency Management’s website. 

    Support for Tennessee

    FEMA has approved more than $3.1 million for disaster assistance for 192 households. 

    Residents can call 1-800-824-3463 to report a missing person. Callers should be prepared to provide as much information as possible including names, phone numbers, vehicle identification and last known whereabouts.  

    Counties continue to establish donation centers. For the evolving list, visit Tennessee Emergency Management Agency’s website.

    mashana.davis

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: FEMA Individual Assistance Now Available for More Virginians

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: FEMA Individual Assistance Now Available for More Virginians

    FEMA Individual Assistance Now Available for More Virginians

    BRISTOL, Va. — Residents of Bedford, Bland, Carroll, Pittsylvania, Russell, and Wise counties and the city of Radford are now eligible to apply for assistance from FEMA under the Individual Assistance Program. FEMA assistance can help with costs from damage and losses due to Tropical Storm Helene.  

    Residents of the city of Galax, as well as Giles, Grayson, Montgomery, Pulaski, Smyth, Tazewell, Washington and Wythe counties, remain eligible for assistance. 

    FEMA may be able to help you pay for essential items, temporary housing, home repairs and other needs due to the disaster, including:

    • Essential items such as water, food, first aid, prescriptions, infant formula, breastfeeding supplies, diapers, medical supplies and equipment, personal hygiene items and fuel for transportation;
    • Financial assistance to help pay for hotel stays, stays with family and friends, or other options while you look for a rental unit as well as rental assistance if you are displaced because of the disaster;
    • Repair or replacement of a vehicle, appliances, room furnishings, personal or family computer;
    • Books, uniforms, tools, computers and other items required for school or work, including self-employment; and
    • Moving and storage fees, medical expenses, childcare and funeral expenses.

    For more information about the types of FEMA assistance available under the Individual Assistance Program, visit: fema.gov/ia.

    You can apply for disaster assistance today: 

    To watch an accessible video about how to apply, visit FEMA Accessible: Registering for Individual Assistance – YouTube.

    FEMA has set up a rumor response webpage to clarify our role in the Helene response. Visit Hurricane Helene: Rumor Response | FEMA.gov. 

    For more information on Virginia’s disaster recovery, visit vaemergency.gov,  the Virginia Department of Emergency Management Facebook page , fema.gov/disaster/4831 and facebook.com/FEMA.  

    ###

    FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. FEMA Region 3’s jurisdiction includes Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia. Follow us on X at x.com/FEMAregion3 and on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/femaregion3.

    To apply for FEMA assistance, please call the FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-3362, visit https://www.disasterassistance.gov/, or download and apply on the FEMA App. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. Multilingual operators are available (press 2 for Spanish and 3 for other languages). Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status.

    erika.osullivan

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tuberville Continues Push Against Woke Emissions Rule from Biden-Harris Department of Transportation

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alabama Tommy Tuberville

    Rule places one-size-fits-all requirements on cities and states

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) joined U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND) in a bicameral amicus brief requesting the Appeals Court uphold the U.S. District Court decision that ruled the Biden-Harris administration’s final rule as illegal. The dysfunctional rule would impose one-size-fits-all requirements on how state departments of transportations (DOT) and cities report and measure greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions on the highway system. This rule requires cities and state DOTs to set declining targets for GHG emissions, which is a huge burden for rural states, like Alabama. However, the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) appealed the decision, and it remains under further consideration.

    “Congress considered, and ultimately rejected, providing [FHWA] with the authority to issue a GHG performance measure regulation, but [FHWA] contorted ancillary existing authorities to impose one anyway,” the members argued. “In doing so, [FHWA] impermissibly usurped the Legislative Branch’s authority and promulgated the GHG performance measure without statutory authority delegated by Congress.

    “Put simply, when [FHWA] established a GHG performance measure regulation, it exceeded the powers Congress authorized. And it did so both at the expense of separation of powers and in violation of the Administrative Procedures Act,” continued the members. 

    The brief argues Congress debated and rejected granting FHWA the authority to issue GHG performance measure rules and the FHWA then intentionally misconstrued Congressional intent to justify its improper exercise of authority. It also argues the rulemaking is not consistent with recent Supreme Court decisions paring back Executive Branch overreach, and FHWA is bypassing principles of federalism to further its own policy agenda.

    Joining U.S. Senators Tuberville and Cramer are U.S. Senators John Barrasso (R-WY), John Boozman (R-AR), Mike Braun (R-IN), Katie Britt (R-AL), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Ted Cruz (R-TX), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Steve Daines (R-MT), Joni Ernst (R-IA), Deb Fischer (R-NE), Lindsey Graham (R-SC), John Hoeven (R-ND), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), Roger Marshall (R-KS), Mitch McConnell (R-KY), Markwayne Mullin (R-OK), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Jim Risch (R-ID), Mike Rounds (R-SD), Marco Rubio (R-FL), Rick Scott (R-FL), Tim Scott (R-SC), Dan Sullivan (R-AK), John Thune (R-SD), and Roger Wicker (R-MS).

    U.S. Representatives Sam Graves (R-MO-6) and Rick Crawford (R-AR-1) introduced the brief in the House of Representatives.

    Read full text of the amicus brief here. 

    BACKGROUND:

    In November 2023, the FHWA adopted a final rule that would impose burdensome GHG emissions performance measures on state departments of transportation and metropolitan planning organizations. This unnecessary rule will require state DOTs and metropolitan planning organizations to set declining targets for greenhouse gas emissions on the National Highway System. Many states, particularly rural states like Alabama, have criticized the proposal as an undue burden and impractical in areas where traffic congestion and emissions are already scarce. Furthermore, Congress has not provided the Department of Transportation (DOT) with any statutory authority to implement this proposal as the authority was intentionally struck from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) before enactment by the Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee.

    In 2018, the Trump administration repealed an Obama administration 2017 FHWA rule after reconsidering the legal authority under which it was publicized. Unsurprisingly, the new FHWA rule resembles the 2017 Obama administration rule. A majority of state DOTs and attorneys general, including Alabama’s Attorney General, have raised concerns about the feasibility of the rule, which is another example of the Biden administration’s overreach that imposes unlawful burdens on the American people.

    Earlier this year, Senator Tuberville joined his colleagues in introducing a bicameral, bipartisan Congressional Review Act (CRA) Joint Resolution to nullify the rule. Following this effort, the Senate passed the CRA by a vote of 53-47 in April.

    MORE:

    Tuberville, Colleagues Call to Overturn Radical EPA Emissions Standards

    Senate Passes Tuberville-Backed Resolution to Overturn Biden GHG Emissions Performance Measure Rule

    Tuberville Sponsors Resolution to Overturn Biden GHG Emissions Performance Measure Rule

    Tuberville, Colleagues Demand Answers Regarding Proposed Biden ESG Rule for Federal Contractors

    Tuberville, Cruz Fight Biden-Harris Woke EV Standards

    Tuberville Continues to Fight Biden Administration Overreach

    Tuberville Demands EPA Rescind Job-Killing Air Quality Standards

    Tuberville Sponsors Bill to Protect Farmers from Burdensome Biden Climate Rule

    Tuberville, Colleagues Work to Halt DoD’s Wasteful Green New Deal Mandates

    Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, and HELP Committees.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China, ASEAN countries reap fruits of high-quality development via Belt and Road cooperation

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    China, ASEAN countries reap fruits of high-quality development via Belt and Road cooperation

    An aerial drone photo taken on July 31, 2024 shows a view of Qinzhou Port in Qinzhou, south China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. [Photo/Xinhua]

    BEIJING, Oct. 8 — Chinese Premier Li Qiang will attend the 27th China-ASEAN Summit, the 27th ASEAN Plus Three Summit and the 19th East Asia Summit in the Lao capital Vientiane starting from Wednesday, and pay official visits to Laos and Vietnam.

    While pursuing high-quality development and advancing modernization, China has been offering new growth momentum to its neighbors connected by mountains and rivers, notably through Belt and Road cooperation with common development being a highlight.

    Experts said that Li’s upcoming trip to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) is expected to boost bilateral relations, foster deeper and more substantive cooperation, and enhance people-to-people exchanges, which will further catalyze regional peace, stability and prosperity.

    ENHANCING CONNECTIVITY

    Laos is a landlocked country in Southeast Asia. Its landscape, largely covered by rugged mountains and high plateaus, forms natural barriers to efficient transportation, hindering the country’s development and the improvement of people’s livelihood.

    The China-Laos Railway has helped transform the country’s predicament into a growth opportunity, turning Laos into a land-linked hub on the Indo-China Peninsula.

    Passengers are seen at the Vientiane Station of the China-Laos Railway in Vientiane, Laos, April 11, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    The 1,035-km railway, a landmark Belt and Road project, connects Kunming in southwest China’s Yunnan Province with Vientiane.

    Nearly three years into operation, the railway has handled over 10 million tons of imported and exported goods valued at about 5.7 billion U.S. dollars in total, with varieties of goods expanding from the initial 500 to more than 3,000, according to official data.

    Since the railway launched its international passenger service in April 2023, it has transported over 222,000 cross-border passengers as of early July this year, providing affordable, convenient and comfortable experiences to travelers.

    Daovone Phachanthavong, vice executive president of the Lao National Chamber of Commerce and Industry, told Xinhua the China-Laos Railway “has promoted regional connectivity and injected vitality into economic and social development along the line.”

    Vietnam, a neighbor of Laos, has enjoyed enhanced connectivity and more efficient logistics from infrastructure cooperation with China as well, which includes railway, expressway and port infrastructure.

    China-Vietnam freight trains are a good case in point. Since its launch in November 2017, the service has significantly boosted rapid cargo movement between the two countries and further into Southeast Asia.

    “China has strengths in capital, technology, and experience in infrastructure construction, while Vietnam is in need of infrastructure development in transportation, energy, and urban areas,” said Do Thi Thu, a senior lecturer at the Banking Academy of Vietnam.

    This aerial photo taken on Oct. 16, 2023 shows a China-Vietnam (L) and a China-Laos international cold-chain freight trains pulling out of Yanhe Station of Yuxi City, southwest China’s Yunnan Province. [Photo/Xinhua]

    BOOMING HIGH-QUALITY DEVELOPMENT

    Infrastructure construction has opened up broader prospects for practical cooperation between China and ASEAN countries in a rich variety of areas, driving stronger economic growth, closer exchanges and high-quality development.

    China is the largest foreign investor in Laos. A large chunk of the investment has funded infrastructure, development zones, as well as power transmission lines and hydropower plants, creating many jobs for local people and pushing forward Laos’ industrial upgrade.

    Daovone said that Laos sees huge potential for further deepening cooperation with China across such fields as agriculture, electric vehicles and trucks, electricity, mining, solar energy, tourism, as well as hotels and restaurants.

    Agriculture is the mainstay of the Lao economy. Laos exports bananas, rubber, cassava, sugarcane and others, with China being the largest buyer.

    Through the years, Chinese companies have collaborated with the Lao government on tropical agricultural science and technology, and Laos is seeking to promote sustainable agricultural production and increase exports to China through the China-Laos Railway.

    Vietnam, meanwhile, is China’s largest trading partner within ASEAN, and China has been Vietnam’s largest trading partner since 2004. Annual volume of two-way trade has exceeded 200 billion U.S. dollars for three consecutive years.

    Do, the Hanoi-based scholar, said that Vietnam-China “large cooperative projects on infrastructure, energy, and border area development have contributed to the socio-economic growth of both nations.”

    Vietnam-China trade cooperation “has bright prospects for deeper and more substantive cooperation in the future,” she said.

    She also said the introduction of fresh and frozen Vietnamese durians into the Chinese market shows the development of trade cooperation, exemplified by diversifying products within the same category and adding value.

    With Chinese consumers’ demand for durians on the rise, China is now the world’s largest importer and consumer of durians. Last year, some 493,000 tons of fresh Vietnamese durians were sold to China.

    Vietnamese vendors sell durians in Dongxing, south China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, on May 18, 2023. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Do also pointed out the abundant opportunities in substantive development of bilateral trade, noting the two countries can further enhance cooperation particularly in high-tech agriculture and e-commerce.

    “China has advanced significantly in technology and innovation, while Vietnam is undergoing a digital transformation and developing its digital economy, creating great potential for cooperation in information technology, artificial intelligence, financial technology, and digital transformation in manufacturing,” she added.

    CLOSER COMMUNITY FOR BROADER PROSPERITY

    The flagship projects realized through high-quality cooperation between China and ASEAN nations have become benchmarks of their ever-closer relationships, the strengthening of which is conducive to regional prosperity and peace, experts have said.

    This year marks the 15th anniversary of the China-Laos comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership. In October 2023, leaders of the two countries signed a new five-year action plan for building a China-Laos community with a shared future, injecting new momentum into the further development of bilateral ties.

    Photo taken on Oct. 16, 2016 shows the border trade on the Beilun River on the China-Vietnam border. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Daovone greatly appreciates the friendship between the two socialist countries, which is maintained by the top leaders of both countries and exchanges between the two peoples.

    Laos-China relations have been moving forward at a high level, he said, expressing the hope that Li’s upcoming visit to Laos will further advance this relationship. As Laos is the current rotating chair of ASEAN, Li’s attendance at related gatherings “will make the summit more colorful.”

    Vietnam, another socialist neighbor, shares cultural and social affinities with China. Last year, the two countries announced the building of a China-Vietnam community with a shared future that carries strategic significance, ushering in a new stage in their ties.

    “Mutual assistance during difficult times, such as supporting each other during the resistance against colonialism and imperialism, post-war reconstruction, and overcoming the COVID-19 pandemic, has strengthened the friendship between our two countries,” Do said.

    As the world is facing rising challenges and geopolitical competition, “a successful bilateral community like Vietnam-China could inspire other bilateral and multilateral communities with a shared future, such as between China and ASEAN,” she said.

    Do noted that working towards a community with a shared future helps Vietnam and China focus on sustainable development goals, including environmental protection, climate change response and food security.

    “It allows the two countries to address common challenges and promote development for the benefit of their peoples, as well as for peace, stability, and prosperity in the region,” she said.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Ohio Sex Offender arrested by U.S. Marshals in Puerto Rico

    Source: US Marshals Service

    San Juan, PR – The U.S. Marshals Service (USMS) Puerto Rico Violent Offenders Task Force (PRFTF) and members of the Puerto Rico Police Department Extradition Unit apprehended in Ponce Oct. 7 a man wanted in Ohio on charges of attempted rape and gross sexual imposition.

    Isaias Colon, 34, was arrested without incident on a warrant issued June 7 by the Mahoning County, Ohio, Court of Common Pleas and after the USMS Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force requested assistance from PRVOTF to investigate Colon in attempts to locate and arrest him.

    Ata residence in Ponce, PRVOTF and PRPD Extradition Unit conducted surveillance for approximately two hours. During the surveillance a gray car arrived at the house and three people, including Colon, were observed exiting the vehicle. Colon was taken into custody and transported to Extradition Unit for extradition procedure.

    “We want to let our communities know that this significant arrest is another example of the results we can obtain from a coordinated collaboration with state agencies and demonstrates the commitment of the men and women of the U.S. Marshals Service to bring these fugitives to justice,” said U.S. Marshal for the District of Puerto Rico Wilmer Ocasio-Ibarra. “All our cases are important, but those against children are of the upmost priority for our personnel. We will continue to be vigilant against any criminal who evades justice and tries to hide so as not to assume his or her responsibility. Our commitment to our citizens comes first and we will allocate all necessary resources to make our communities safe, maintaining a quality of life that we all deserve in Puerto Rico.”

    The USMS encourages the community to continue to collaborate with our deputies on tips that help find the whereabouts of a fugitive by contacting our local office at (787) 766-6297, calling the U.S. Marshals Service Communication Center at 1 (800) 336-0102, or submitting tips using the U.S. Marshals Service Tips App.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: For National Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Day, NREL Spotlights Innovations To Make, Move, Store, and Use Hydrogen

    Source: US National Renewable Energy Laboratory

    NREL’s Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Research Is Unlocking the Energy Potential of Hydrogen

    Researchers work on an electrolyzer stack that splits water into hydrogen and oxygen using renewable electricity. Photo by Werner Slocum, NREL

    October 8 (10.08) is national hydrogen and fuel cell day—a nod to the atomic weight of the most abundant element in the universe: 1.008.

    This year, the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) marks the occasion by spotlighting its hydrogen and fuel cell research, which is lowering the cost and increasing the scale of technologies to make, store, move, and use hydrogen across multiple energy sectors.

    Hydrogen is a simple and versatile energy carrier that can provide clean energy for the most difficult-to-decarbonize sectors. Together, those attributes make hydrogen a key part of the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE’s) efforts to enable a clean and low-carbon economy. Through its Hydrogen Shot, DOE aims to reduce the cost of clean hydrogen to $1 per kilogram by 2031.

    NREL research and development (R&D) supports DOE goals and enables industry to take advantage of the broad potential of hydrogen—whether used as fuel for heavy-duty vehicles, a feedstock for sustainable chemical and steel production, or a medium for storing energy.

    Below are some highlights from the last year of NREL hydrogen R&D.

    R&D Highlights

    Megawatt-Scale Hydrogen Systems Research Kicks Off at NREL’s Flatirons Campus

    NREL highlighted the status and initial performance of the grid-integrated megawatt-scale hydrogen electrolysis, compression, storage, and fuel cell generator system at NREL’s Flatirons Campus in a webinar. The presentation included details about ongoing research using NREL’s Advanced Research on Integrated Energy Systems capabilities as well as future areas of research asset development.

    NREL’s integrated megawatt-scale hydrogen technologies system allows partners and researchers to create, store, and use hydrogen in a full grid environment. Photo by Josh Bauer/Bryan Bechtold, NREL

    Offshore Wind Turbines Offer Path for Clean Hydrogen Production

    Producing hydrogen at a cost that approaches the DOE goal for low-cost clean hydrogen depends significantly on both the technology used and production location. Using electricity generated by offshore wind turbines as one pathway to split water to produce clean hydrogen may make economic sense, particularly along the U.S. Atlantic Coast and in the Gulf of Mexico, according to researchers at NREL.

    NREL Selected as Part of $1.6M in Federal Funding To Explore Potential of Geologic Hydrogen

    Geologic hydrogen is currently a poorly understood but potentially groundbreaking energy resource involving certain types of rocks and subsurface environments that produce natural hydrogen. NREL was recently selected as one of 16 teams to research enhanced production of geologic hydrogen. Together with partners, NREL will help stimulate hydrogen production from iron-rich mafic and ultramafic rocks via chemical, mechanical, and biological processes.

    New NREL-Led Lab Consortium To Enable High-Volume Manufacturing of Electrolyzers and Fuel Cells

    Launched in 2024, the Roll-to-Roll (R2R) Consortium aims to advance efficient, high-throughput, and high-quality manufacturing methods and processes to accelerate domestic manufacturing and reduce the cost of durable, high-performance proton exchange membrane fuel cell and electrolyzer systems. R2R joins a expanding group of national laboratory consortia, each with a strategic focus to facilitate low-cost, clean hydrogen technologies.

    NREL’s roll-to-roll web line is used for research of in-line quality control monitoring techniques for battery, electrolyzer, and fuel cell materials. Photo by Werner Slocum, NREL

    NREL Advances Hydrogen Fuel Dispensing for Medium- and Heavy-Duty Vehicles

    In another webinar, NREL highlighted research advances in fueling protocols, dispensing hardware, codes and standards, and station architecture for medium- and heavy-duty vehicles. Researchers performed fast-flow fueling tests at NREL and benchmarked system performance exceeding industry and DOE targets; adapted the H2FillS model for heavy-duty applications; and performed analysis of fueling protocol impacts on station design, station cost, and vehicle cost. Several team members were also recognized by DOE for their outstanding leadership and contributions.

    NREL’s heavy-duty hydrogen fueling team. Photo by Agata Bogucka, NREL

    NREL Model Fast-Tracks Hydrogen Supply Chain Infrastructure Deployment

    Reducing capital and viability risks for infrastructure investment decisions will accelerate the adoption of hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles. NREL is helping stakeholders forecast demand and minimize infrastructure buildout costs. NREL’s Scenario Evaluation and Regionalization Analysis model optimizes hydrogen infrastructure buildout necessary to meet the growing needs of an emerging, dynamic market at a geographic and temporal level.

    Project Demonstrates Clean Supply Chain of the Future, Using Today’s Technology

    For 12 months, zero-emissions vehicles powered a clean demonstration supply chain—from battery-electric harbor cranes, which unloaded cargo containers from ships, to hydrogen-powered trucks, which drove goods from ports to storefronts across Southern California. Then NREL researchers quantified the findings. Now, the results from the Port of Los Angeles’ Shore to Store project are in: A zero-tailpipe-emissions supply chain is possible, using today’s technologies.

    Learn More

    Read the DOE blog, Celebrate Hydrogen Day All Week Long, to learn about how you can get involved in this week’s celebration and learn a few fun facts about hydrogen!

    Learn more about NREL’s research in hydrogen and fuel cells.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: PHOTOS AVAILABLE: Governor Cooper, FEMA Administrator Criswell, Federal Highway Administration Officials Travel to Yancey and Mitchell Counties to Survey Damage, Thank First Responders

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: PHOTOS AVAILABLE: Governor Cooper, FEMA Administrator Criswell, Federal Highway Administration Officials Travel to Yancey and Mitchell Counties to Survey Damage, Thank First Responders

    PHOTOS AVAILABLE: Governor Cooper, FEMA Administrator Criswell, Federal Highway Administration Officials Travel to Yancey and Mitchell Counties to Survey Damage, Thank First Responders
    mseets

    Today, Governor Roy Cooper traveled to Burnsville in Yancey County and Spruce Pine in Mitchell County and was joined by FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell, Federal Highway Administration Acting Administrator Kristin White and other state and federal officials to assess storm damage, thank volunteers and speak with people impacted by Hurricane Helene. The Governor visited the Burnsville and Spruce Pine fire departments and toured the Sibelco Quartz Mine in Spruce Pine, a facility that is integral to the global production of solar panels and semiconductor chips and a major employer in Mitchell County. The facility has been temporarily shut down due to impacts from Helene.

    “Today I visited Burnsville and Spruce Pine where more heroic work is being done by volunteers and first responders to save lives and get relief to people who need it,” said Governor Cooper. “We’ll continue our around-the-clock work to surge resources and aid into Western North Carolina, helping communities recover and working to re-open facilities like the Sibelco Quartz Mine that are critical for both local and global economies.”

    The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services is working to quickly get food, water and baby formula to impacted areas in Western North Carolina. DHHS has distributed over 30,000 gallons of water to Mitchell County and nearly 25,000 gallons to Yancey County. In addition, over 95,000 meals ready to eat (MREs) have been distributed to Mitchell County and over 55,000 to Yancey County. Eight pallets of formula via the National Guard have been distributed to 34 feeding sites across Western North Carolina.

    Photos from the Governor’s visit to Yancey and Mitchell counties can be found here.

    North Carolina National Guard and Military Response

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

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

    FEMA Assistance

    More than $37 million in FEMA Individual Assistance funds have been paid so far to Western NC disaster survivors and more than 123,000 people have registered for Individual Assistance. Approximately 2,600 people are now housed in hotels through FEMA’s Transitional Sheltering Assistance. Federal partners have delivered approximately 9.78 million liters of water and approximately 7.7 million meals in North Carolina to support both responders and people living in the affected communities.

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

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

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

    Help from Other States

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

    Beware of Misinformation

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

    Food, Water and Commodity Points of Distribution

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

    Missing Persons

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

    Shelters

    A total of 17 shelters are open in Western North Carolina serving 737 people and 106 pets.

    Storm Damage Cleanup

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

    Power Outages

    Across Western North Carolina, more than 107,000 customers remain without power as of Tuesday, down from a peak of more than 1 million. Overall power outage numbers will fluctuate up and down as power crews temporarily take circuits or substations offline to make repairs and restore additional customers.

    Road Closures

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

    NCDOT is asking people to avoid unnecessary travel to or in Western North Carolina. NCDOT has posted at ncdot.gov an interstate detour map for travelers to avoid western N.C. NCDOT currently has more than 2,050 employees and 1,100 pieces of equipment working on approximately 4,700 damaged road sites.

    Fatalities

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

    Volunteers and Donations

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

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

    Additional Assistance

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

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

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

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

    ###

    Oct 8, 2024

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA to Open Virtual Business Recovery Center to Assist Yakama Nation Businesses and Residents Affected by Wildfires

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Francisco Sánchez Jr., associate administrator for the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the Small Business Administration, today announced the opening of its virtual Business Recovery Center to meet the needs of businesses and individuals who were affected by wildfires that occurred June 22–July 8. The disaster declaration covers the Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Nation.

    “When disasters strike, our virtual Business Recovery Centers are key to helping business owners and residents get back on their feet,” Sánchez said. “At these virtual centers, people can connect directly with our specialists to apply for disaster loans and learn about the full range of programs available to rebuild and move forward in their recovery journey.”

    SBA has established a virtual Business Recovery Center to answer questions about SBA’s disaster loan program, explain the application process and help each individual complete their electronic loan application.

    Virtual Business Recovery Center
    Monday – Friday
    8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
    FOCWAssistance@sba.gov
    (916) 735-1501

    Businesses of all sizes and private nonprofit organizations may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory and other business assets.

    For small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small businesses engaged in aquaculture and most private nonprofit organizations of any size, SBA offers Economic Injury Disaster Loans to help meet working capital needs caused by the disaster. Economic injury assistance is available regardless of whether the business suffered any property damage.

    “SBA’s disaster loan program offers an important advantage–the chance to incorporate measures that can reduce the risk of future damage,” Sánchez continued. “Work with contractors and mitigation professionals to strengthen your property and take advantage of the opportunity to request additional SBA disaster loan funds for these proactive improvements.”

    SBA disaster loans up to $500,000 are available to homeowners to repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate. Homeowners and renters are eligible for up to $100,000 to repair or replace damaged or destroyed personal property, including personal vehicles.

    Interest rates can be as low as 4 percent for businesses, 3.25 percent for private nonprofit organizations and 2.688 percent for homeowners and renters with terms up to 30 years. Loan amounts and terms are set by SBA and are based on each applicant’s financial condition.

    Interest does not begin to accrue until 12 months from the date of the first disaster loan disbursement. SBA disaster loan repayment begins 12 months from the date of the first disbursement.

    To be considered for all forms of disaster assistance, survivors must first register with the Federal Emergency Management Agency at SBA.gov/disaster.

    Applicants may apply online and receive additional disaster assistance information and download applications at SBA.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659‑2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

    The deadline to apply for property damage is Nov. 25, 2024. The deadline to apply for economic injury is June 24, 2025.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration
    The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit http://www.sba.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Drink driver caught while more than six times the legal limit

    Source: Tasmania Police

    Drink driver caught while more than six times the legal limit

    Wednesday, 9 October 2024 – 11:34 am.

    A 36-year-old Ulverstone man has been charged with drink driving after he was intercepted by police while more than six times the legal alcohol limit in Devonport overnight.
    Police were called about 8pm Tuesday 8 October after a member of the public observed a white Toyota Hilux driving dangerously on William Street, Devonport.
    The driver was intercepted by police on Steele Street and returned a blood alcohol reading of 0.322.
    He was immediately disqualified and has been charged with drive a motor vehicle while exceeding prescribed alcohol limit and drive under the influence of intoxicating liquor.
    He was bailed to appear in the Devonport Magistrates Court in December.
    Tasmania Police Sergeant Jeremy Williams said driving while more than six times the legal alcohol limit was both reckless and incredibly dangerous.
    “Not only are you putting your own life at risk, but the lives of other road users,” he said.
    “Tasmania Police remains committed to road safety policing and enforcing the fatal five, being speed, fatigue, distraction (including mobile phone use), drink/drug driving and non-wearing of seatbelts.
    “We encourage any motorists that were travelling in the area, at the time, who observed this vehicle and its manner of driving, to come forward.”
    Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or at crimestopperstas.com.au. Information can be provided anonymously.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Crapo, Risch Join Effort to Protect Idaho Transportation Department from Federal Overreach

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Idaho Mike Crapo

    Washington, D.C.–U.S. Senators Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) and Jim Risch (R-Idaho) joined a bicameral group of colleagues in filing an amicus brief requesting an Appeals Court uphold a District Court decision vacating a rule that would require local entities to regulate greenhouse gas (GHGs) emissions from cars and trucks.  

    In November 2023, the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) adopted a final rule requiring state departments of transportation and metropolitan planning organizations to measure GHG emissions on the highway system and set declining targets.  The rule would hamstring the Idaho Transportation Department with costly and burdensome requirements that would divert limited funds for needed infrastructure improvements across the state to costly and expensive compliance measures by the federal government.

    Crapo and Risch joined a bipartisan Congressional Review Act joint resolution of disapproval to overturn the rule.  The resolution passed the Senate by a vote of 53 to 47 in April, reiterating Congress’s opposition to FHWA’s overreach

    Shortly after the rule was finalized, 21 state attorneys general filed litigation challenging the regulation.  The U.S. District Court found the Biden Administration rule to be illegal, but FHWA appealed the decision to the Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals and it remains under further consideration.

    The brief, led by Senators Kevin Cramer (R-North Dakota) and Shelley Moore Capito (R-West Virginia), argues Congress debated and rejected granting FHWA the authority to issue GHG performance measure rules and the FHWA then intentionally misconstrued Congressional intent to justify its improper exercise of authority.  It also argues the rulemaking is not consistent with recent Supreme Court decisions paring back Executive Branch overreach, and FHWA is bypassing principles of federalism to further its own policy agenda.

    “Congress considered, and ultimately rejected, providing [FHWA] with the authority to issue a GHG performance measure regulation, but [FHWA] contorted ancillary existing authorities to impose one anyway,” the members argued.  “In doing so, [FHWA] impermissibly usurped the Legislative Branch’s authority and promulgated the GHG performance measure without statutory authority delegated by Congress.”

    “Put simply, when [FHWA] established a GHG performance measure regulation, it exceeded the powers Congress authorized.  And it did so both at the expense of separation of powers and in violation of the Administrative Procedure Act,” continued the members.

    Additional cosigners of the amicus brief include U.S. Senators John Barrasso (R-Wyoming), John Boozman (R-Arkansas), Mike Braun (R-Indiana), Katie Britt (R-Alabama), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Steve Daines (R-Montana), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Deb Fischer (R-Nebraska), Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina), John Hoeven (R-North Dakota), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Mississippi), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyoming), Roger Marshall (R-Kansas), Mitch McConnell (R-Kentucky), Markwayne Mullin (R-Oklahoma), Pete Ricketts (R-Nebraska), Mike Rounds (R-South Dakota), Marco Rubio (R-Florida), Rick Scott (R-Florida), Tim Scott (R-South Carolina), Dan Sullivan (R-Arkansas), John Thune (R-South Dakota), Tommy Tuberville (R-Alabama), Roger Wicker (R-Mississippi), and U.S. Representatives Sam Graves (R-Missouri), Chairman of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, and Rick Crawford (R-Arkansas), Chairman of the Highways and Transit Subcommittee.

    Click here for the amicus brief.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NC Health and Human Services Secretary Kody H. Kinsley Joins Governor Roy Cooper to Survey Damage and Meet with People Impacted by Hurricane Helene in Mitchell and Yancey Counties

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: NC Health and Human Services Secretary Kody H. Kinsley Joins Governor Roy Cooper to Survey Damage and Meet with People Impacted by Hurricane Helene in Mitchell and Yancey Counties

    NC Health and Human Services Secretary Kody H. Kinsley Joins Governor Roy Cooper to Survey Damage and Meet with People Impacted by Hurricane Helene in Mitchell and Yancey Counties
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    NC Health and Human Services Secretary Kody H. Kinsley toured Mitchell and Yancey counties with Governor Roy Cooper on Tuesday, surveying storm damage, meeting with community members and thanking first responders at the Burnsville and Spruce Pine fire departments. The trip concluded with a visit to Sibelco Quartz Mine, a top employer of Mitchell County with about 500 employees. While speaking with members of the media, the Secretary shared updates from the department’s work in collaboration with local, state and federal partners to get the needed care and resources to the hundreds of thousands of people impacted by Hurricane Helene.

    It is a top priority for the department to quickly get food, water and baby formula to impacted areas in Western North Carolina.

    • 30,000 gallons of water distributed to Mitchell County and nearly 25,000 gallons to Yancey County.
    • 95,000 meals ready to eat distributed in Mitchell County and 55,000 meals ready to eat distributed in Yancey County.
    • Eight pallets (between 120 – 144 cases of formula per pallet) of formula via the National Guard to 34 feeding sites across the impacted Western NC counties.
    • Formula shipped directly to multiple counties, including Mitchell and Yancey.
    • Diaper Bank of NC is making daily trips by trucks, mules and ATVs to deliver formula and infant supplies to 16 of the impacted counties in Western North Carolina.

    The department is working closely with federal partners to ensure people have access to food.

    • People across North Carolina can use their EBT cards to purchase hot foods.
    • People in 23 counties were automatically reimbursed for 70% of their monthly benefit to replace lost food. This is $24million in replacement benefits to more than 200,000 people in North Carolina.
    • Out of the 1,645 retailers that accept EBT cards in 25 counties in the west, at least 1,259 (77%) were able to run EBT transactions this past Saturday and Sunday.

    However, there are a large number of retailers in Mitchell and Yancey counties still not able to accept EBT cards, and we are working with partners to get more of those retailers back online.

    We are working to ensure communities have access to medical care, support and life-saving medication.

    • A Community Medical Care Site in Burnsville (Yancey County) is being set up with ambulances, medications and medical supplies on site.
    • 229 pharmacies are open in the impacted counites and EBCI Tribal area with federal disaster declaration.  Each county and the EBCI Tribal area have at least one pharmacy open and filling prescriptions.
    • All shelters have mental health counselors on site and are stocked with Naloxone for people in need of treatment for opioid overdose.
    • All 27 opioid treatment programs in the Western region are already re-open and folks can go to any one of them to get their treatment doses. They do not need to go to the one they usually go to.
    • NCDHHS is filling Benadryl and epinephrine injections requests through hospitals, emergency medical personnel and doctors who are seeing a significant number of people showing up with insect stings.
    • The department has been concerned about oxygen supplies and has worked with multiple vendors, federal agencies and neighboring states to source supplies. Two refill stations have been set up; one in Mocksville and another in Brevard.

    We understand the emotional and mental toll that a crisis like this can take and want to make sure people have access to mental health supports. We’ve ramped up staffing at the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. People in immediate crisis or contemplating self harm should not hesitate to call. For everyone impacted by Hurricane Helene, the Disaster Distress Hotline is ready to take your call at 1-800-985-5990.

    Oct 8, 2024

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese commerce minister, U.S. commerce secretary hold phone talk

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    Chinese commerce minister, U.S. commerce secretary hold phone talk

    BEIJING, Oct. 8 — China’s Commerce Minister Wang Wentao held a telephone talk with U.S. Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo on Tuesday, according to China’s Ministry of Commerce.

    The two sides conducted candid, in-depth and pragmatic communication on economic and trade issues of respective concern, with a focus on the implementation of the important consensus reached between the two heads of state of China and the United States at the San Francisco meeting.

    The phone conversation is an arrangement under the communication mechanism between the two commerce departments.

    The San Francisco meeting has pointed out direction for the development of the China-U.S. economic and trade relations, said Wang.

    The commerce departments of the two countries have maintained close contact at different levels, said Wang, adding that positive progress has been made in expanding cooperation, managing differences, and addressing specific concerns of enterprises.

    China-U.S. economic and trade relations should become the “ballast” in bilateral relations, he said.

    Wang said that China is willing to work with the United States on the basis of mutual respect, peaceful coexistence, and win-win cooperation to jointly implement the consensus reached at the San Francisco meeting, and put China-U.S. relations back on the right track.

    Wang expressed serious concerns about the U.S. semiconductor policy towards China and the restrictions on Chinese connected vehicles.

    It’s necessary to clarify the national security boundaries in the economic and trade field, as it is conducive to maintaining the security and stability of the global industrial and supply chains, and creating a favorable policy environment for cooperation between the business communities from the two countries, Wang stressed.

    China urges the U.S. side to pay attention to the specific concerns of Chinese enterprises, promptly lift sanctions on Chinese companies, and improve the business environment for Chinese companies in the United States, Wang said.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Armidale and Tweed Heads Zero Emission Buses dubbed ‘best bus ride ever’

    Source: New South Wales Government 2

    Headline: Armidale and Tweed Heads Zero Emission Buses dubbed ‘best bus ride ever’

    Published: 9 October 2024

    Released by: Minister for Regional Transport and Roads

    Five months in, Transport for NSW’s trials of Zero Emissions Buses (ZEBs) in regional NSW are being hailed as a success.

    The trials of zero emission school buses in Armidale and Tweed Heads have recorded positive results since their roll-out earlier this year.

    Dubbed by one student as ‘the best bus ride ever’, the ZEBs are excelling in all conditions and terrains, attracting positive feedback in a survey of passengers.
    During school term two and three, the four buses across Armidale and Tweed Heads have collectively clocked up:

    • more than 64,000 kilometres
    • more than 2600 hours in charging
    • over 25,000 passenger journeys.

    At the BusNSW 2024 Member Conference in Sydney today, Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Jenny Aitchison announced the second deployment of Transport for NSW’s $25 million regional Zero Emission Bus trials.

    More buses will start rolling out from next week with three ZEB school buses going to each of Queanbeyan and Deniliquin and one to Narrabri. There will also be an additional bus starting in Armidale.

    The trials will collect data from Zero Emissions Buses and coaches in different environments, terrain, temperatures, and conditions.

    Transport for NSW will use that data, along with feedback from passengers, drivers, and operators, to make decisions about the best technology for our regions as we plan for a zero emissions future.

    For more information on the zero-emissions bus trial go to: https://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/projects/current-projects/zero-emission-buses

    Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Jenny Aitchison said:
    “I welcome the enthusiastic support and positive feedback from the Armidale and Tweed communities regarding our Zero Emission Bus trials.

    “The early trial data shows ZEBs are really living up to their name with zero breakdowns and zero charging issues despite operating in challenging conditions.

    “From unsealed roads to steep hilly climbs and temperatures hitting below minus-5 around Armidale – these buses are cutting tailpipe emissions and showing ZEBs have the potential to thrive in regional areas.”

    Edwards Coaches Managing Director Brad Edwards said:
    “Feedback from the drivers and passengers has so far been positive. The trial has provided very promising results showing excellent durability and reliability of these vehicles.

    “Participating in this trial has already given us a lot of valuable insights into the capabilities of zero emissions technology.”

    Martin Hall, Kinetic’s Executive General Manager for South-East Queensland and Tweed said:
    “Our experience at Kinetic is that wherever ZEBs are introduced the feedback from passengers is overwhelmingly positive. School children are happy to be enjoying the quiet and smooth ride.

    “It has been wonderful to see students learn more about the technology and how sustainable transport will play a such an important role in their futures.”   

    Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin said:
    “We are early and regular uptakers of renewables, so this is a good fit for our region. We can tell that people are happy and the buses are working well.

    “Because it’s been a trial, we know it’s the start of more good things to come as we get to our renewable targets.”

    Emily Suvaal MLC, Labor spokesperson for Tweed said:

    “The NSW Government remains committed to a greener, more sustainable transport system and with promising results so far, I am confident the next deployment of regional ZEB trials will further highlight their potential wider application.”

    Peter Primrose MLC, Labor spokesperson for the Northern Tablelands said:
    “I am thrilled to see the positive outcomes from the Zero Emission Bus trials. The enthusiastic feedback from students and the community highlights the success of this initiative.

    “As we work towards transitioning our regional bus fleet to zero emissions, these trials are crucial in demonstrating the potential of sustainable transport solutions. I look forward to the next phase of trials and the invaluable insights they will provide as we pave the way for a cleaner future in public transport.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI China: 7 people killed in Israeli attack targeting Syrian residential neighborhood

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Rescuers transfer a child injured in an Israeli attack in the residential neighborhood of Mazzeh, west of Damascus, Syria, on Oct. 8, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    An Israeli airstrike targeted a residential building in the densely populated Mazzeh neighborhood of Damascus on Tuesday night, killing seven civilians, including women and children, and injuring 11 others, according to a statement by the Syrian Defense Ministry.

    The attack, which occurred at approximately 8:15 p.m. local time (1715 GMT), involved three missiles launched from the direction of the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights, said the statement.

    It added that the strike caused significant damage to the surrounding area with rescue efforts still underway.

    A Xinhua reporter at the scene heard the sound of explosions, accompanied by billowing clouds of smoke and the wailing of ambulances.

    The airstrike struck a 14-floor building in the Sheikh Sa’ad area, a residential and commercial hub in the heart of Mazzeh.

    Three floors in the building were completely damaged, as the three missiles hit each of them. Rescue workers were still searching for survivors and casualties.

    In response to the incident, the Syrian Foreign Ministry issued a strong condemnation, calling the attack a “brutal crime” and a “grave violation” of international law.

    “This brutal crime against unarmed civilians is a continuation of the genocide committed by this occupying entity against Palestinians and Lebanese,” said the Syrian Foreign Ministry in a statement, emphasizing the need for immediate international measures to prevent Israel from continuing its “pattern of criminal behavior.”

    It is the first instance of the Sheikh Sa’ad area being directly targeted by an Israeli attack.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: National Day holiday consumption displays China’s economic vitality, potential

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Tourists taste food at the Qianmen pedestrian street in Beijing, capital of China, Oct. 7, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    China’s just-concluded National Day holiday ignited a surge in consumer activity, fueled by a dynamic blend of travel demand and targeted incentives, highlighting the strong economic vitality of the world’s second largest economy.

    Over the seven-day holiday ending on Monday, more than 2 billion cross-regional trips were made nationwide, according to the Ministry of Transport, representing a 4.1-percent average daily increase compared to 2023.

    The surge in travel not only boosted tourism-related industries but also stimulated consumer spending across various sectors — highlighting the resilience of China’s domestic market during and beyond the holiday period.

    Local governments and businesses responded to the travel rush with innovative initiatives, such as consumer vouchers and home appliance trade-in programs, aimed at tapping into the holiday spirit and bolstering consumption.

    Tourism boom with inbound surge

    The holiday unleashed a travel frenzy. During the holiday period, a remarkable 765 million domestic trips were made, marking a 5.9 percent year-on-year increase, with total tourist spending surging 6.3 percent to 700.8 billion yuan (about 99.11 billion U.S. dollars).

    The travel boom was fueled by a growing demand for diverse tourism experiences, with domestic bookings of travel packages, including flights, hotels and dining, jumping by 40 percent, according to Fliggy, a popular travel platform.

    Data from Trip.com, another leading travel platform, showed that outbound travel orders had surpassed 2019 level, driven by trips to popular destinations such as Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore and Australia.

    Notably, inbound tourism exceeded outbound travel, with inbound orders skyrocketing by 60 percent year on year during the holiday, as more foreign tourists flocked to China, drawn by its unique blend of natural beauty, historical landmarks and vibrant modern attractions.

    The China Tourism Academy predicts that foreign arrivals in the second half of 2024 will exceed 15 million, with the inbound tourism market expected to return to 2019 level, marking the start of a new growth cycle.

    Cultural tourism flourished during the holiday, seeing activities like museum visits, exhibitions and immersive experiences becoming major highlights. Beijing, for instance, hosted over 900 cultural events, an 11-percent increase compared with last year.

    Fueled by the blockbuster video game “Black Myth: Wukong,” north China’s Shanxi has recently seen a phenomenal travel boom, as this province is home to many of the stunning locations featured in the game.

    Analysts expect that as more travelers engage with diverse cultures, the vibrant growth of China’s economy and the richness of its cultural heritage will be fully showcased.

    Spending boost with policy support

    The holiday also sparked a wave of consumer activity, with government-backed incentives playing a key role in heating up the market.

    China unveiled an action plan in March this year to implement a program of large-scale equipment upgrades and trade-ins of consumer goods to expand domestic demand, and stepped up policy support in July with an extra funds injection of 300 billion yuan via ultra-long special treasury bonds.

    Encouraged by the trade-in policy and automaker discounts, the holiday period saw new car sales increase by 11.7 percent — with new energy vehicle sales surging 45.8 percent year on year.

    During the holiday, JD.com, a leading online retailer, reported an increase of 67 percent in home appliance sales compared with 2023, while home appliance retailer, Suning, saw trade-in orders rising by 132 percent year on year.

    According to the Ministry of Commerce, in the first three days of the holiday, 1.04 million consumers purchased 1.55 million home appliances under the trade-in program, contributing to sales of 7.36 billion yuan.

    Powered by the travel and tourism surge, the dining sector across China sizzled with energy. Data from Meituan, one of China’s leading e-commerce platforms for services, showed that from Oct.1 to 5, daily average dine-in consumption rose 33.4 percent compared to the same period last year.

    Audiences packed cinemas, with a total of 2.1 billion yuan in box office takings recorded during the holiday.

    Local governments rolled out policy measures to spur consumption. Shanghai, for instance, injected 5 billion yuan into vouchers for dining, entertainment and shopping, while cities including Chongqing hosted a variety of promotions to spark consumption.

    “The robust holiday consumption highlights China’s vast market, and its strong economic resilience and great potential,” said Xu Guangjian, a professor at the Renmin University of China.

    The accelerated integration of culture, sports and tourism, along with evolving business models, is creating new opportunities for sustained growth, further consolidating the role of consumption as a key driver of the economy, Xu noted.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China, US commerce ministers hold phone talks

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    China’s Commerce Minister Wang Wentao held a telephone talk with U.S. Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo on Tuesday, according to China’s Ministry of Commerce.

    The two sides conducted candid, in-depth and pragmatic communication on economic and trade issues of respective concern, with a focus on the implementation of the important consensus reached between the two heads of state of China and the United States at the San Francisco meeting.

    The phone conversation is an arrangement under the communication mechanism between the two commerce departments.

    The San Francisco meeting has pointed out direction for the development of the China-U.S. economic and trade relations, said Wang.

    The commerce departments of the two countries have maintained close contact at different levels, said Wang, adding that positive progress has been made in expanding cooperation, managing differences, and addressing specific concerns of enterprises.

    China-U.S. economic and trade relations should become the “ballast” in bilateral relations, he said.

    Wang said that China is willing to work with the United States on the basis of mutual respect, peaceful coexistence, and win-win cooperation to jointly implement the consensus reached at the San Francisco meeting, and put China-U.S. relations back on the right track.

    Wang expressed serious concerns about the U.S. semiconductor policy towards China and the restrictions on Chinese connected vehicles.

    It’s necessary to clarify the national security boundaries in the economic and trade field, as it is conducive to maintaining the security and stability of the global industrial and supply chains, and creating a favorable policy environment for cooperation between the business communities from the two countries, Wang stressed.

    China urges the U.S. side to pay attention to the specific concerns of Chinese enterprises, promptly lift sanctions on Chinese companies, and improve the business environment for Chinese companies in the United States, Wang said.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Arrest for driver who damaged two police vehicles and assaulted police officers

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Please attribute to Senior Sergeant Leo Belay, Waikato Police

    Today police arrested a man who drove his vehicle into two police vehicles after fleeing from officers who were conducting a traffic stop at Five Cross Roads, Claudelands.

    Officers responded and located the vehicle following complaints from members of the public about the manner of driving.

    At about 10.15am the vehicle was located at the Five Cross Roads shops where police staff approached and spoke with the driver.

    After refusing to engage with Police, the driver then fled from the traffic stop and subsequently spikes were successfully deployed.

    The vehicle then fled to nearby Claude Street, where police converged and located the man driving in a dangerous manner on the road committing sustained loss of traction.

    While police were responding to the vehicle on Claude Street, the driver deliberately drove his vehicle into two of the responding police units, causing significant damage to all three vehicles involved.

    No one was injured as a result of the vehicle collisions.

    To mitigate the risk that the driver posed to the public, further police units that were responding managed to successfully block in the offending vehicle and safely bring it to a stop.

    The driver then resisted arrest, and during this process police have deployed tactical options, such as Taser and OC spray.

    The driver was restrained and taken into custory without further incident.

    During the arrest process, two police officers were assaulted by the driver, however their injuries were minor.

    A 39-year-old man will appear in the Hamilton District Court tomorrow charged with Failure to remain stopped for an enforcement officer, Operating a motor vehicle causing sustained loss of traction, Driving in a dangerous manner, Assaults person with a blunt instrument (police), Assaults police, and Resists police.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China studying measures to raise tariffs on imported large-engine fuel vehicles: ministry

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    China is studying measures on increasing tariffs for imported fuel-powered cars with large-displacement engines, the Ministry of Commerce (MOC) said on Tuesday.

    China will take all necessary measures to firmly safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese industries and enterprises, according to a spokesperson from the MOC.

    The MOC announced on Tuesday that it will impose temporary anti-dumping measures on brandy originating from the European Union (EU) in accordance with Chinese laws and regulations, while adhering to World Trade Organization rules.

    China is also conducting the anti-dumping investigation into certain pork and pig by-products imported from the EU, as well as the anti-subsidy probe into certain imported EU dairy products, which will fully protect the rights of all stakeholders and make an objective and fair ruling based on the results of the investigations, the spokesperson added. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China handles about 6.3B parcels during holiday

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    An exhibitor operates an unmanned autonomous delivery vehicle for courier service displayed at the World Intelligence Expo 2024 in north China’s Tianjin, June 20, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    China’s postal and express delivery industry handled around 6.3 billion parcels during the seven-day National Day holiday that ended on Monday, reflecting vibrant tourism and consumption during the period.

    A total of 3.16 billion parcels were collected during the holiday, with the average daily collection volume increasing by 28.4 percent compared with the National Day holiday last year, according to data released by the State Post Bureau on Tuesday.

    The number of parcels delivered totaled 3.12 billion, and the daily volume of delivered parcels during the period expanded by 26.7 percent from the National Day holiday period in 2023.

    Relevant enterprises have taken multiple measures to meet the robust demand nationwide, including extending service times and cooperating with cultural and tourism enterprises, said the bureau.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China requests WTO consultations over Türkiye’s EV tariffs

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    China filed a request on Tuesday for consultations with Türkiye at the World Trade Organization (WTO) over tariffs and licensing measures for imported electric vehicles and other vehicles from China, the Ministry of Commerce said.

    Türkiye announced the imposition of a 40 percent additional tariff on imported electric vehicles and other vehicles from China, in addition to setting import license restrictions.

    “This discriminatory action is a violation of WTO rules and a typical protectionist practice,” a spokesperson for the Chinese Ministry of Commerce said.

    “We urge Türkiye to abide by its relevant commitments at the WTO and immediately correct its wrong practices,” said the spokesperson, adding that China will take all measures available to safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of its industries.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: An engineering building with a physical education and health block was built in Nagatino-Sadovniki

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    An engineering building with physical education and health facilities with a total area of over 16,000 square meters was built on the territory of the Newton Plaza technology park, a multifunctional complex that includes high-tech enterprises. This was reported by the Minister of the Moscow Government, Head of the Moscow Department of Urban Development Policy Vladislav Ovchinsky.

    The building is located at the address: 1st Nagatinsky proezd, building 10. It was built in the style of modern minimalism, so it blends in organically with the adjacent buildings of the technology park thanks to the use of similar facade materials.

    “The multifunctional complex consists of seven above-ground, two underground and one basement floors. It includes laboratories, sports and fitness and administrative premises. The complex building is connected to the existing building of the innovation and industrial complex by an above-ground passage at the level of the first floor and an underground passage at the level of the minus second floor. In addition, an underground passage to the prospective development near the northern border of the site is provided,” said Vladislav Ovchinsky.

    The engineering block contains laboratory and administrative premises, a control room, laboratories, laboratory utility rooms, technical rooms, a shared use center (coworking area), acoustic office cabins, auxiliary and technical rooms, and a balcony with a usable terrace.

    The laboratories will conduct tests of electronic systems of cars and issue conclusions based on their results. They also plan to check the acoustic systems of cars and motorcycles for compliance with sound quality and noise level certificates.

    The physical education and health block houses martial arts halls, functional training, group classes, fitness, a massage room and a hammam, as well as various service and administrative departments, tennis courts and a gym.

    Based on the results of the comprehensive final inspection, the Committee for State Construction Supervision of the City of Moscow (Mosgosstroynadzor) issued a conclusion on the compliance of the facility with the design documentation.

    “The engineering building was erected in five years, and throughout all stages of construction the committee monitored the progress of the work – a total of 29 on-site inspections were conducted at the site. Now the developer can prepare documentation to obtain permission to put the building into operation,” added the chairman of Mosgosstroynadzor

    Anton Slobodchikov.

    Earlier Sergei Sobyanin reportedon the completion of the construction of the first stage of the ZIL technology park, an investment priority project for the capital.

    Technoparks to be built in 10 districts of the capital under the integrated territorial development programA technology park will be built in Maryina RoshchaEcological laboratory, city farm and chocolate studio. How the children’s technopark of food production Rosbiotech is organized

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

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

    https://vvv.mos.ru/nevs/item/145004073/

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Blackhawk Deal with Far North District Council

    Source: Press Release Service – Press Release/Statement:

    Headline: Blackhawk Deal with Far North District Council

    Blackhawk, a leader in IoT and real-time digital transformation for remote and mobile assets, has signed a contract with Far North District Council (FNDC) to supply vehicle telematics systems, as well as a pool booking software solution, aiming to streamline FNDC’s fleet management across its range of vehicles.

    The post Blackhawk Deal with Far North District Council first appeared on PR.co.nz.

    – –

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI: TomTom provides enhanced navigation to IVECO commercial vehicles

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    • TomTom and IVECO renew their multi-year collaboration, with TomTom’s navigation, maps, and traffic data powering IVECO’s commercial vehicles
    • Leveraging TomTom’s expertise, IVECO provides its customers with an enhanced navigation solution to make logistics safer and more efficient

    AMSTERDAM, Oct. 09, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — TomTom (TOM2), the location technology specialist, has been selected by IVECO, a brand of Iveco Group and a market-leading manufacturer of light, medium, and heavy commercial vehicles, to power its navigation solution in vehicles globally.

    IVECO’s new light commercial vehicle Daily, the electric eDaily, and heavy-duty S-Way truck will come equipped with TomTom’s full stack navigation, featuring maps, custom truck routing, real-time traffic information, and connected services. The solution is further enhanced with advanced connectivity, designed to maximize uptime and enable over-the-air updates, ensuring navigation updates, maintenance, and repair operations are efficient and convenient for drivers and operators. The result is a solution that improves routing accuracy, reduces travel times, and enhances the user experience.

    “We’re excited to expand our collaboration with IVECO to develop new solutions that cater to the ever-evolving needs of fleet drivers and operators, and the logistics industry at large,” said Mike Schoofs, Chief Revenue Officer, TomTom. “By providing businesses with seamless access to up-to-date and precise location data, we enable enhanced navigation for fully electric, mixed, or gas-powered fleets to help optimize their activities.”

    “At IVECO, we continually strive to enhance our service offering to provide complete mobility solutions that cater to our customers’ specific needs,” said Lorenzo Marangio, Head of Service Solutions, IVECO. “By leveraging TomTom’s industry-leading maps, navigation software, and traffic insights, we can offer an advanced navigation solution tailored to better optimize fleet deliveries, improve the driver experience, and increase our customer’s overall business productivity.”

    About TomTom: 

    Billions of data points. Millions of sources. Thousands of communities.

    We are the mapmaker bringing it all together to build the world’s smartest map. We provide location data and technology to drivers, carmakers, businesses and developers. Our application-ready maps, routing, real-time traffic, APIs and SDKs empower the dreamers and doers to move our world forward.

    Headquartered in Amsterdam with 3,700 employees around the globe, TomTom has been shaping the future of mobility for over 30 years.

    http://www.tomtom.com

    For further information:

    Media Relations

    mediarelations@tomtom.com

    Investor Relations 

    ir@tomtom.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/2e5d7189-7035-4b6e-892b-d8502c756a35

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Auction of personalised vehicle registration marks to be held on October 27

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Auction of personalised vehicle registration marks to be held on October 27
    Auction of personalised vehicle registration marks to be held on October 27
    ***************************************************************************

         The Transport Department (TD) today (October 9) announced that an auction of personalised vehicle registration marks (PVRMs) will be held on October 27 (Sunday) in Meeting Room S421, L4, Old Wing, Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, Wan Chai.      “A total of 240 approved PVRMs will be put up for public auction. A list of the marks has been uploaded to the department’s website, http://www.td.gov.hk/en/public_services/vehicle_registration_mark/index.html,” a department spokesman said.      The reserve price of each of these marks is $5,000. Applicants who have paid a deposit of $5,000 should also participate in the bidding (including the first bid at the reserve price). Otherwise, the PVRM concerned may be sold to another bidder at the reserve price.      People who wish to participate in the bidding at the auction should take note of the following points: (1) Bidders are required to produce the following documents for completion of registration and payment procedures immediately after successful bidding: (i) the identity document of the successful bidder;(ii) the identity document of the purchaser (if the purchaser and the successful bidder are different persons);(iii) a copy of the Certificate of Incorporation (if the purchaser is a body corporate); and(iv) a crossed cheque made payable to “The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region” or “The Government of the HKSAR”. For an auctioned mark paid for by cheque, the first three working days after the date of auction will be required for cheque clearance confirmation before processing of the application for mark assignment can be completed. Successful bidders may also pay through the Easy Pay System (EPS), but are reminded to note the maximum transfer amount in the same day of the payment card. Payment by post-dated cheque, cash, credit card or other methods will not be accepted. (2) Purchasers must make payment of the purchase price through EPS or by crossed cheque and complete the Memorandum of Sale of PVRM immediately after the bidding. Subsequent alteration of the particulars in the Memorandum will not be permitted. (3) A PVRM can only be assigned to a motor vehicle which is registered in the name of the purchaser. The Certificate of Incorporation must be produced immediately by the purchaser if a vehicle registration mark purchased is to be registered under the name of a body corporate. (4) The display of a PVRM on a motor vehicle should be in compliance with the requirements stipulated in Schedule 4 of the Road Traffic (Registration and Licensing of Vehicles) Regulations. (5) Any change to the arrangement of letters, numerals and blank spaces of a PVRM, i.e. single and two rows as auctioned, will not be allowed. (6) The purchaser shall, within 12 months after the date of auction, apply to the Commissioner for Transport for the PVRM to be assigned to a motor vehicle registered in the name of the purchaser. If the purchaser fails to assign the PVRM within 12 months, allocation of the PVRM will be cancelled and arranged for re-allocation in accordance with the statutory provision without prior notice to the purchaser.      “Upon completion of the Memorandum of Sale of PVRM, the purchaser will be issued a receipt and a Certificate of Allocation of Personalised Registration Mark. The Certificate of Allocation will serve to prove the holdership of the PVRM. Potential buyers of vehicles bearing a PVRM should check the Certificate of Allocation with the sellers and pay attention to the details therein. For transfer of vehicle ownership, this certificate together with other required documents should be sent to the TD for processing,” the spokesman added.      For other auction details, please refer to the Guidance Notes – Auction of PVRM, which is available at the department’s licensing offices or can be downloaded from its website, http://www.td.gov.hk/en/public_services/vehicle_registration_mark/pvrm_auction/index.html.

     
    Ends/Wednesday, October 9, 2024Issued at HKT 14:30

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI: Nokia launches new industrial applications to improve worker safety and enhance operational efficiency

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Press Release
    Nokia launches new industrial applications to improve worker safety and enhance operational efficiency

    • Expands the number of Nokia-owned and best-in-class industry applications integrated on the MX Industrial Edge (MXIE) to drive efficiency, productivity and OT security.
    • New applications help to improve worker safety and enable responsive video for machine remote control, leading to higher operational efficiency and strengthening OT environment security.

    9 October 2024
    Espoo, Finland – Nokia today announced six new applications deployed on the Nokia MX Industrial Edge (MXIE) to help enterprises improve worker safety, site security, enhance operational efficiency and secure OT environments in manufacturing, mining, ports, and chemical industries.

    According to Analysys Mason, enterprises worldwide using private LTE and 5G are projected to spend $6 billion by 2030 on industrial applications enabling new use cases and enhancing existing ones. In line with industry developments, Nokia MXIE on-premises edge solution, part of Nokia’s private wireless offering, supports ecosystem neutrality enabling the deployment of applications to help support growing diverse Industry 4.0 use case needs.

    Offered as-a-service, these new applications are Ascom Ofelia, Fogsphere, innovaphone PBX & myApps, Nokia Real-time eXtended Reality Multimedia (RXRM), OneLayer, and Redinent and join our existing portfolio of Nokia, and third-party digitalization applications.

    Improving situational awareness to enhance worker safety and site security
    Worker safety remains a high priority in industrial settings. The new applications enable digitalization to increase situational awareness, better deal with incidents, and increase the use of real-time data and knowledge which are key to improving worker safety and site security. The new applications include the following:

    • Ascom Ofelia – Ascom Ofelia helps enterprises shift from separate alarm systems to one unified alarm solution, improving incident management, increasing situational awareness, and ensuring a safer workplace.
    • Fogsphere® – A comprehensive, multi-modal AI platform to enhance workplace safety, security, and operational intelligence, with real-time solutions for PPE compliance, behavioral analysis, emergency management, access control, intrusion detection and vehicle monitoring.

    Connecting workers to achieve higher efficiency
    Connected worker applications are essential to overcome workforce challenges such as worker shortages, retention issues, and difficulty attracting new talent, which are key to achieving the efficiency and productivity needed to outperform the competition. Applications can give workers real-time information to make their jobs easier and machine tele-operation more efficient. New items include the following:

    • innovaphone PBX & myApps – Secure, scalable IP telephone system with
      built-in features like conferencing, voicemail and waiting queues for advanced business communication and smart business applications. Its on-premise MXIE solution ensures full data control and meets ISO27001 standards.
    • Real-time eXtended Reality Multimedia (RXRM) – Software solution with low latency 360° video and 3D OZO audio capture that helps to improve productivity, employee safety, teleoperations, situational awareness & remote technical support.

    Securing OT assets to strengthen the overall security
    Asset visibility, zero trust principles and effective vulnerability management in OT environments will be enabled by the new applications including:

    • OneLayer – Discovers, manages, secures, and classifies all IIoT assets on private networks, including those behind cellular routers. Acting as a zero-trust access broker, it enforces zero-trust security principles within OT environments while delivering zero-touch asset management and operational intelligence.
    • Redinent – Discovers IIoT assets and helps create inventory, identifies IIoT vulnerabilities and ongoing threats. It informs the security operation center (SOC) about the findings.

    Stephan Litjens, VP, CNS Enterprise Campus Edge Solutions at Nokia, said: “Keeping workers safe and connected is paramount for enterprises. With the expanded Nokia Industrial Application Catalog we are providing a rich choice to help industries improve important Industry 4.0 use cases such as increasing situational awareness for streamlined decision making in both day-to-day and emergency situations, more efficient operations with machine remote control and many more.”

    Resources and additional information
    Video: MX Industrial Edge (MXIE)
    Webpage: Worker safety | Nokia DAC
    Webpage: Connected workers | Nokia DAC
    Webpage: Nokia industrial application portfolio

    About Nokia
    At Nokia, we create technology that helps the world act together. 

    As a B2B technology innovation leader, we are pioneering networks that sense, think and act by leveraging our work across mobile, fixed and cloud networks. In addition, we create value with intellectual property and long-term research, led by the award-winning Nokia Bell Labs.  

    With truly open architectures that seamlessly integrate into any ecosystem, our high-performance networks create new opportunities for monetization and scale. Service providers, enterprises and partners worldwide trust Nokia to deliver secure, reliable and sustainable networks today – and work with us to create the digital services and applications of the future. 
    .
    Media inquiries
    Nokia Press Office
    Email: Press.Services@nokia.com

    Follow us on social media
    LinkedIn X Instagram Facebook YouTube

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Nokia strengthens situational awareness and worker safety in industrial environments with expanded device portfolio 

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Press Release
    Nokia strengthens situational awareness and worker safety in industrial environments with expanded device portfolio 

    • New field routers increase the data transfer capacity using Nokia MX Boost.
    • EX-protected tablet and a new EX-protected 5G PTT handheld by i.safe MOBILE keep connected workers safe in hazardous industries, such as oil and gas.  

    9 October 2024
    Espoo, Finland – Nokia today announced new industrial devices to help enterprises increase worker safety, productivity and situational awareness in industrial environments. The new devices include new field routers and new EX-protected device types/formfactors.

    Part of the Nokia comprehensive industrial device portfolio, these new ruggedized devices enable enterprises to develop additional Industry 4.0 use cases and improve worker safety while operating in potentially dangerous or high-security industrial environments such as mines, ports, chemical and oil and gas facilities.

    This portfolio extension is part of Nokia’s drive to help industries simplify and accelerate digital transformation by offering a unified platform that includes edge computing, applications and business-critical connectivity. These additions to the Nokia device portfolio complement the existing EX and high IP protection devices which feature handhelds, dongles and field routers that help connect people, machines, and sensors.

    New-generation field routers increase data transfer capacity
    With advanced technical capabilities, these new indoor and outdoor routers boost device capacity and bandwidth for data-intensive applications, connecting machines, vehicles, and sensors. The standout feature, the in-built Nokia MX Boost, maximizes performance and reliability by concurrently leveraging 4.9G/LTE, 5G, and Wi-Fi 6, meeting the demands of high-capacity Industry 4.0 use cases.

    EX-protected devices help keep workers connected
    Workers need rigorously certified equipment in hazardous environments where combustible dust, flammable liquids, gases and electricity can increase the risk of explosions. As part of the Nokia one platform for industrial digitalization, Nokia now offers additional EX-protected devices, including a 5G tablet and PTT handheld from world-renowned i.safe MOBILE.

    The 5G Android tablet, designed for data communication in hazardous environments integrates with LTE/4.9G,5G networks and Wi-Fi 6, features a replaceable battery and programmable buttons for custom applications. The 5G PTT handheld device ensures mission-critical push-to-talk over cellular communication via public or campus networks (4.9G/LTE, 5G or Wi-Fi).

    Nokia and the enterprise
    Nokia Industrial device management and Nokia Network Digital Twin support all the new devices announced, enabling enterprises to administer devices easily and efficiently while providing real-time network insights to predict maintenance needs and reduce downtime.

    Nokia has deployed mission-critical networks to more than 2,600 leading enterprise customers in an array of industrial sectors and has extended its expertise to more than 760 private wireless customers worldwide. These customers will benefit from having easy access to equipment and applications needed in their infrastructure for existing and new Industry 4.0 use cases.

    Stephan Litjens, VP, CNS Enterprise Campus Edge Solutions at Nokia, said: “Our new ruggedized industrial devices contribute to improving worker safety and increase situational awareness. By leveraging our latest applications, enterprises can implement Industry 4.0 use cases more effectively. Nokia MX Boost, Network Digital Twin, Industrial device management, and other applications like Visual Position and Object Detection, as well as Team Comms, add value to our customers beyond connectivity and edge compute capabilities in Nokia one platform for industrial digitalization.”

    From 14 to 18 October, Nokia will be in Dubai at GITEX GLOBAL in booth H21-C20. Visit Nokia to learn more about these innovations and how Nokia one platform for industrial digitalization can enhance operations and accelerate transformation.

    Resources and additional information
    Webpage: Nokia Industrial devices | Nokia DAC
    Webpage: Media library

    About Nokia
    At Nokia, we create technology that helps the world act together.

    As a B2B technology innovation leader, we are pioneering networks that sense, think and act by leveraging our work across mobile, fixed and cloud networks. In addition, we create value with intellectual property and long-term research, led by the award-winning Nokia Bell Labs.

    With truly open architectures that seamlessly integrate into any ecosystem, our high-performance networks create new opportunities for monetization and scale. Service providers, enterprises and partners worldwide trust Nokia to deliver secure, reliable and sustainable networks today – and work with us to create the digital services and applications of the future.

    Media inquiries
    Nokia Press Office
    Email: Press.Services@nokia.com

    Follow us on social media
    LinkedIn X Instagram Facebook YouTube

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: New brigade name to reflect essential emergency role

    Source: Government of Western Australia

    Wanneroo Fire Support Bush Fire Brigade will become North Coastal Bush Fire Brigade Wanneroo in July 2025.

    Over the past two decades, the Brigade has expanded from a small incident command vehicle to a multi-faceted resource service that responds to emergency incidents across the State.

    Mayor Linda Aitken said the update reflected the current state of the Brigade’s operational responsibilities.

    “When the Wanneroo Fire Support Bush Fire Brigade was first established, it acted as a secondary response unit. It has since grown significantly in capacity, providing technical incident communication and support,” she said.

    “The new name appropriately represents the Brigade’s essential role in emergency responses across Western Australia and will improve clarity, streamline operations and ensure the Brigade’s identity aligns with its role and responsibilities.

    “The City is grateful to all volunteer firefighters who give their time to make this service so effective and help keep our community safe.”

    The name change will also help differentiate between the Wanneroo Fire Support Bush Fire Brigade and the Wanneroo Central Volunteer Bush Fire Brigade during critical incidents, minimising the risk of confusion.

    Find out more about the important work of the City’s volunteer bushfire brigades: wanneroo.wa.gov.au

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Celebrating 150 years of the Universal Postal Union

    Source: Australian Ministers for Regional Development

    Hi, I’m Michelle Rowland, Australia’s Communications Minister. It is wonderful to say a few words to help celebrate this special World Post Day.

    This year marks 150 years of the Universal Postal Union. Australia has been a proud member since 1907. 

    Much has changed over this time, notably the way in which we communicate and connect with each other.

    From the horse-drawn postal delivery services of the past with letters that took months to ship over to Australia. 

    To today’s three-wheel Australia Post electric vehicles delivering our insatiable appetite for e-commerce and online shopping to our door. 

    We have seen a steady decline in letters – juxtaposed with a rise in parcel deliveries.

    Australia Post delivered more than 2.5 billion items around our vast nation last year alone. 

    What hasn’t changed over the past 150 years is the impact the postal service has on all our lives. Here in Australia, and around the world.

    We all enjoy receiving something personal by post – a letter from a pen pal, a postcard or a birthday card from our family and friends.

    It brings us joy, smiles and a connection with those we cherish.

    As well as the personal touch, the postal sector also delivers for our communities – supporting jobs and small business.

    It offers vital community services, especially in rural and regional Australia.

    It is often not just the post office – it may be the only banking service in town, the newsagent and the retailer.

    The Australian Government is modernising Australia Post to ensure it remains viable, adaptive and agile to change.

    I am thrilled that Australia Post has been recognised as a postal sector world leader for 2024. The UPU gave Australia Post a score of 10 – the highest achievable level of global postal excellence. 

    Congratulations to Australia Post.

    I would also like to acknowledge the accomplishments of the UPU.

    The Universal Service Obligation – for example – ensures mail is exchanged safely, securely and efficiently across 192 member countries.

    This World Post Day marks 150 years of the UPU enabling communication and empowering people across nations.

    It is an opportunity to celebrate and share a joint commitment to continue this important mission for decades and centuries to come.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Refugees in east Africa suffer from high levels of depression, making it harder to rebuild lives – new study

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Olivier Sterck, Senior Research Officer, University of Oxford

    By the end of 2023, more than 100 million people globally had been forced to flee their homes due to war, violence, fear of persecution, and human rights violations.

    The majority are hosted in low- and middle-income countries, where many live in overcrowded camps or urban settlements, with limited access to food, employment and essential services. Many endure traumatic experiences not only before their displacement but also during and after it. They face armed conflict, marginalisation and poverty at every stage of their journey.

    These experiences may increase the likelihood of developing mental health disorders, which can persist years after displacement. This makes it harder for refugees to earn a living and integrate into society.

    As World Health Organization (WHO) director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said at the 2019 Global Refugee Forum:

    It’s a hidden epidemic and a silent killer. News reports show us the devastation of war. They show us refugees on the move, refugees in cities and refugees in large camps. But they don’t show us inside the minds of the people and how it affects their lives … Wounds heal. Homes are rebuilt. News cycles move on. But the psychosocial scars often go unnoticed and untreated for years.

    Despite this recognition, there are gaps in what’s known about the mental health of refugees.

    Most studies focus on refugees hosted in high-income countries, even though 75% of refugees live in low- and middle-income countries.

    We conducted a multi-country survey of 16,000 refugees and host community members in cities and camps across Kenya, Uganda and Ethiopia. At the time of our research (between 2016 and 2018), these three countries hosted around 40% of Africa’s refugees – about 1.8 million people. The survey included Congolese and Somali refugees across most sites, as well as South Sudanese refugees in the Kenyan camps.

    Our study found that refugees in east Africa experienced higher rates of depression (31%) and functional impairment (62%) compared to the host population (10% and 25%, respectively).

    Prevalence was even higher among those exposed to violence and extended periods of displacement. They also faced greater economic hardship, such as higher unemployment, lower wages and poor diets.

    Our findings highlight the profound impact of mental health on refugees’ ability to rebuild their lives. It highlights the urgent need for targeted screening and evidence-based treatments to prevent a vicious cycle of mental disorders, economic hardship and poor social integration.

    What we studied

    Our study had three main goals.

    First, we wanted to see how common depression was among different refugee groups and how it compared to the local host communities. We measured depressive symptoms using a questionnaire that could evaluate moderate to severe depression. We also measured how well people were able to carry out daily activities, such as moving around, completing tasks and participating in community life – abilities that are often affected by depression.

    Second, we wanted to understand how past experiences of violence – before refugees fled their home countries – affected their mental health. This used event data which tracked violent events in refugees’ home districts during the three years before they fled and a subjective, self-reported measure of violence experiences. This allowed us to study the correlation between exposure to violence and depressive symptoms.

    And third, we explored the hidden toll depression takes across different life domains, including employment, health and overall well-being.

    High levels of depression

    The study found that 31% of refugees were depressed, compared to 10% of people in nearby host communities.

    A staggering 62% of refugees reported difficulties in functioning, compared to 25% of host community members. For example, many refugees reported moderate to severe difficulties in walking (35%), doing household chores (31%), concentrating (22%), or joining community activities (24%).

    Women, older refugees, and those who had been in exile longer were particularly vulnerable to worse mental health.

    More than half of the refugees in the survey reported experiencing or witnessing violence, either in their home countries or while fleeing. Refugees who experienced violence were about 17 percentage points more likely to experience depression, and 18 percentage points more likely to report functional impairment.

    We also found a “dose-response” relationship between violence and depression. This means the more severe the violence refugees experienced, the worse their mental health became over time.

    The impact of violence and depression extended far beyond mental health. Refugees with higher levels of depression and those exposed to violence also faced significant economic challenges. They were more likely to be unemployed, earn lower wages, have poorer diets, and report lower life satisfaction.

    This shows that depression directly affects individuals by limiting their ability to function. It also indirectly hinders their chances of rebuilding a stable, fulfilling life.

    Mental health interventions

    Our results highlight that refugees – particularly those exposed to violence and prolonged exile – are disproportionately affected by depression. It’s harder for them to achieve economic stability and integrate into their host communities.

    We also found that mental health issues get worse the longer refugees remain in exile, underscoring the need for early screening for mental illness.

    Based on our findings, we hypothesise that effective treatment of depression could potentially create a virtuous cycle, improving both refugees’ mental health and other broader economic outcomes. This makes a strong case for investing in refugees’ mental health in low- and middle-income countries.

    – Refugees in east Africa suffer from high levels of depression, making it harder to rebuild lives – new study
    – https://theconversation.com/refugees-in-east-africa-suffer-from-high-levels-of-depression-making-it-harder-to-rebuild-lives-new-study-240815

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Refugees in east Africa suffer from high levels of depression, making it harder to rebuild lives – new study

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Olivier Sterck, Senior Research Officer, University of Oxford

    By the end of 2023, more than 100 million people globally had been forced to flee their homes due to war, violence, fear of persecution, and human rights violations.

    The majority are hosted in low- and middle-income countries, where many live in overcrowded camps or urban settlements, with limited access to food, employment and essential services. Many endure traumatic experiences not only before their displacement but also during and after it. They face armed conflict, marginalisation and poverty at every stage of their journey.

    These experiences may increase the likelihood of developing mental health disorders, which can persist years after displacement. This makes it harder for refugees to earn a living and integrate into society.

    As World Health Organization (WHO) director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said at the 2019 Global Refugee Forum:

    It’s a hidden epidemic and a silent killer. News reports show us the devastation of war. They show us refugees on the move, refugees in cities and refugees in large camps. But they don’t show us inside the minds of the people and how it affects their lives … Wounds heal. Homes are rebuilt. News cycles move on. But the psychosocial scars often go unnoticed and untreated for years.

    Despite this recognition, there are gaps in what’s known about the mental health of refugees.

    Most studies focus on refugees hosted in high-income countries, even though 75% of refugees live in low- and middle-income countries.

    We conducted a multi-country survey of 16,000 refugees and host community members in cities and camps across Kenya, Uganda and Ethiopia. At the time of our research (between 2016 and 2018), these three countries hosted around 40% of Africa’s refugees – about 1.8 million people. The survey included Congolese and Somali refugees across most sites, as well as South Sudanese refugees in the Kenyan camps.

    Our study found that refugees in east Africa experienced higher rates of depression (31%) and functional impairment (62%) compared to the host population (10% and 25%, respectively).

    Prevalence was even higher among those exposed to violence and extended periods of displacement. They also faced greater economic hardship, such as higher unemployment, lower wages and poor diets.

    Our findings highlight the profound impact of mental health on refugees’ ability to rebuild their lives. It highlights the urgent need for targeted screening and evidence-based treatments to prevent a vicious cycle of mental disorders, economic hardship and poor social integration.

    What we studied

    Our study had three main goals.

    First, we wanted to see how common depression was among different refugee groups and how it compared to the local host communities. We measured depressive symptoms using a questionnaire that could evaluate moderate to severe depression. We also measured how well people were able to carry out daily activities, such as moving around, completing tasks and participating in community life – abilities that are often affected by depression.

    Second, we wanted to understand how past experiences of violence – before refugees fled their home countries – affected their mental health. This used event data which tracked violent events in refugees’ home districts during the three years before they fled and a subjective, self-reported measure of violence experiences. This allowed us to study the correlation between exposure to violence and depressive symptoms.

    And third, we explored the hidden toll depression takes across different life domains, including employment, health and overall well-being.

    High levels of depression

    The study found that 31% of refugees were depressed, compared to 10% of people in nearby host communities.

    A staggering 62% of refugees reported difficulties in functioning, compared to 25% of host community members. For example, many refugees reported moderate to severe difficulties in walking (35%), doing household chores (31%), concentrating (22%), or joining community activities (24%).

    Women, older refugees, and those who had been in exile longer were particularly vulnerable to worse mental health.

    More than half of the refugees in the survey reported experiencing or witnessing violence, either in their home countries or while fleeing. Refugees who experienced violence were about 17 percentage points more likely to experience depression, and 18 percentage points more likely to report functional impairment.

    We also found a “dose-response” relationship between violence and depression. This means the more severe the violence refugees experienced, the worse their mental health became over time.

    The impact of violence and depression extended far beyond mental health. Refugees with higher levels of depression and those exposed to violence also faced significant economic challenges. They were more likely to be unemployed, earn lower wages, have poorer diets, and report lower life satisfaction.

    This shows that depression directly affects individuals by limiting their ability to function. It also indirectly hinders their chances of rebuilding a stable, fulfilling life.

    Mental health interventions

    Our results highlight that refugees – particularly those exposed to violence and prolonged exile – are disproportionately affected by depression. It’s harder for them to achieve economic stability and integrate into their host communities.

    We also found that mental health issues get worse the longer refugees remain in exile, underscoring the need for early screening for mental illness.

    Based on our findings, we hypothesise that effective treatment of depression could potentially create a virtuous cycle, improving both refugees’ mental health and other broader economic outcomes. This makes a strong case for investing in refugees’ mental health in low- and middle-income countries.

    Olivier Sterck receives funding from the IKEA Foundation.

    Julia R Pozuelo receives funding from the National Institute of Mental Health.

    Maria Flinder Stierna receives funding from the Norwegian Research Council.

    Raphael Bradenbrink received funding from the Heinrich Böll Foundation.

    – ref. Refugees in east Africa suffer from high levels of depression, making it harder to rebuild lives – new study – https://theconversation.com/refugees-in-east-africa-suffer-from-high-levels-of-depression-making-it-harder-to-rebuild-lives-new-study-240815

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –