Blog

  • MIL-OSI USA: Visit a Disaster Recovery Center in Virginia

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Visit a Disaster Recovery Center in Virginia

    Visit a Disaster Recovery Center in Virginia

    BRISTOL, Va.—If you were affected by Tropical Storm Helene, visit a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) to apply for assistance and learn about resources from FEMA, the Small Business Administration, the commonwealth of Virginia, and other organizations to aid you in your recovery.   

    What is a DRC?

    A DRC, or Disaster Recovery Center, is an accessible facility that you can visit in person to learn more about FEMA and other agencies providing disaster assistance in Virginia. Residents, property owners, business owners and farmers can go to a DRC to apply for assistance and obtain resources. 

    This video provides an overview about what you can expect when you visit a DRC: Disaster Recovery Center (DRC): Your Resource After a Hurricane (youtube.com). 

    What can I get help with? 

    At a Disaster Recovery Center you can get one-on-one help with staff from the organizations present. FEMA staff at DRCs are happy to spend time with you to explain the types of assistance offered and help you apply. 

    The specialists at a DRC can help you: 

    • Apply for disaster grants from FEMA. 
    • Submit additional documents for your application.
    • Understand and respond to a letter from FEMA. 
    • Apply for low-interest disaster loans for individuals and businesses with the Small Business Administration (SBA). 
    • Find resources about agricultural recovery and assistance for farmers.
    • Learn how to replace damaged documents like proof of address or birth certificates.
    • Get connected to commonwealth of Virginia resources.
    • Obtain information on the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and how to mitigate against future losses.
    • Find other sources of assistance, like nonprofit help.

    Who is at a DRC? 

    Every Disaster Recovery Center is a little different, based on the local community’s needs. 

    All DRCs will have FEMA staff, trained in the Individual Assistance program, available to answer questions about the FEMA disaster assistance application process. FEMA hazard mitigation staff are also available to speak to survivors who want to learn about ways to make their properties safer from floods and build back better. All DRCs have staff from the Small Business Administration. 

    DRCs will have representatives from the commonwealth of Virginia, though the specific agencies will differ from location to location. If you need help from a specific agency, you can still come to a DRC where staff can share information and get you in touch with the agency you need. 

    DRCs may have representatives from nonprofit organizations as well as other local agencies. 

    What should I bring?

    You do not need to bring anything to visit a DRC – just yourself. However, depending on the help you are looking for, it can be helpful to prepare ahead of time. 

    Applying for Assistance: If you are starting or resuming an application for assistance, you should bring the following with you: 

    • Insurance information, if available 
    • The address and zip code of your disaster-damaged home
    • Condition of your damaged home
    • Social Security number 
    • Phone number, address, and email (if you have one) where you can be contacted
    • Bank account information, if you would like to set up direct deposit 

    For examples of these documents and a more detailed application checklist, see the application checklist on DisasterAssistance.gov.

    If you have questions about a FEMA determination letter it will be helpful if you bring the letter and any documents requested in the letter. If you have a FEMA ID number, write that down and bring it with you. If you don’t have it, staff can ask you other questions to access your application information.

    What should I expect? 

    DRCs are accessible to all, including survivors who are Deaf and Hard of Hearing.

    Every DRC is laid out differently to make best use of the space. You can watch a quick video that walks through a DRC in New York from 2021.  

    DRCs will always have signs out front, indicating where to enter.

    Once you walk in the front doors, you will be greeted, and you will sign in. All DRCs have security guards present at the entrance. You may have to wait for a few moments for the specialist you need to be available. If so, you can sit down in designated chairs or a waiting area. Most of the time, you will not need to wait and will be helped immediately. 

    As soon as a specialist is available, they will work with you personally to help answer your questions, help you register for assistance or understand your documents, connect you with available resources, and more.

    Where do I find a DRC near me? 

    As of Oct. 21, there are six DRCs open across southwest Virginia. New DRCs will continue to open over the coming weeks.  To find a DRC near you, including addresses and hours, go to FEMA.gov/drc or text DRC and a ZIP code to 43362.

    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.

    connor.dacey

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Minister Guilbeault delivers statement on opening day of COP16 in Cali, Colombia

    Source: Government of Canada News

    Our recent 2030 Nature Strategy, released ahead of COP16, charts our path to achieving our objectives. To hold this and any future government accountable to fulfill those goals, we introduced the Nature Accountability Bill that requires the Government to transparently report on their progress.

    October 21, 2024 – Ottawa, Ontario

    “COP16 is here, and Canada is ready. Our livelihoods, our communities, and our economies rely on being responsible with the natural world, which is telling us it is in trouble.

    “Canada is immensely proud of the role we played in hosting COP15 in Montréal. Seeing the gavel come down in the late hours of the conference to pass the Kunming–Montréal Global Biodiversity Framework was an unforgettable moment for me. Together, we landed an agreement many said was not possible and planted the seed for a strong global action.

    “COP16 is the first chance for countries to show their plans. The natural world simply won’t wait for us to get our act together. Our citizens and communities around the world expect us to deliver.

    “For our part, Canada has moved fast and early. We are steadily making progress on the largest conservation campaign in our country’s history, backed by over $12 billion in investments and aiming toward protecting 30 percent of Canadian land and water by 2030. Our recent 2030 Nature Strategy, released ahead of COP16, charts our path to achieving our objectives.

    “To hold this and any future government accountable to fulfill those goals, we introduced the Nature Accountability Bill that requires the Government to transparently report on their progress. To date, we have gone from one percent to 15 percent protected oceans. We have conserved almost half a million hectares of land, with many large-scale conservation projects in the works. We are upholding the Species at Risk Act to protect threatened species. We moved forward quickly with the hope that it would encourage other countries to announce ambitious biodiversity plans.

    “Canada is coming to COP16 ready to galvanize leadership and action. Since COP15, we launched the Nature Champions Network, a ministerial-level group that focuses on fostering international awareness and understanding of the global biodiversity framework. We are leading members of the High Ambition Coalition for Nature and People who played an instrumental role in landing the deal at COP15. Canada became the first contributor country to pledge $200 million for the Global Biodiversity Framework Fund launched in record time in 2023 to support developing countries in the implementation of their biodiversity plans to restore nature and grow resilient economies.

    “Increasing global biodiversity momentum requires partnerships, especially with Indigenous peoples. That’s why Canada looks forward to working with Indigenous peoples toward historic COP16 outcomes with the creation of a United Nations permanent body under the Convention on Biological Diversity that further recognizes the role and contribution of Indigenous peoples in the implementation of global biodiversity goals.   

    “Now is our chance. Let’s make COP16 a breakthrough for many countries ready to deliver on the global biodiversity framework.”

    Canada on-the-ground at COP16

    • Canada will call for rapid global action to protect biodiversity, including through strengthened engagement with Indigenous peoples.
    • Canada will host multiple side-events at COP, including two in partnership with Indigenous leadership innovation, to show the world the importance of collaboration with Indigenous peoples and successful Indigenous-led conservation in Canada.
    • Canada has delivered its ambitious 2030 Nature Strategy as promised at COP15 and is pioneering the Nature Accountability Bill, setting a new standard as one of the first countries in the world to propose legislation to meet biodiversity commitments at the federal level.
    • In 2023, Canada established the Nature Champions Network, a ministerial-level network that focuses on fostering international awareness and understanding of the Kunming–Montréal Global Biodiversity Framework and retaining momentum to ensure that all countries deliver updated national biodiversity strategies and action plans by COP16. The Champions will be at COP16 to discuss progress and advocate for rapid global biodiversity action.

    Quick facts

    • Both the 2030 Nature Strategy and the Nature Accountability Bill provide a roadmap for collaboration across all levels of government and with Indigenous peoples in the development and implementation of measures aimed at meeting Kunming–Montréal Global Biodiversity Framework and related Convention on Biological Diversity commitments.
    • At COP15, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced $350 million in funding to support developing countries in advancing biodiversity efforts and to support the implementation of the Post-2020 Global Biodiversity Framework.
    • Indigenous-led conservation is proven to help land, water, and communities thrive, and it is central to Canada’s plan to protect 30 percent of our land and water by 2030.
    • In recent years, the Government of Canada has made historic investments in Indigenous-led conservation projects, including through initiatives like the Indigenous Guardians Program.
    • Project Finance for Permanence provides multi-partner investments and sustainable financing for large-scale conservation and sustainable development projects. These initiatives bring together Indigenous organizations, governments, and the philanthropic community to identify shared goals for protecting nature and ultimately halting biodiversity loss while advancing community well-being and reconciliation with Indigenous peoples.
    • In 2022, during COP15, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau pledged to deliver up to $800 million in support of up to four Indigenous-led Project Finance for Permanence initiatives, including the Great Bear Sea Project Finance for Permanence.

    Hermine Landry
    Press Secretary
    Office of the Minister of Environment and Climate Change
    873-455-3714
    Hermine.Landry@ec.gc.ca

    Media Relations
    Environment and Climate Change Canada
    819-938-3338 or 1-844-836-7799 (toll-free)
    media@ec.gc.ca

    MIL OSI Canada News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Remarks by Vice President Harris and Liz Cheney at a Campaign Event | Malvern,  PA

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    People’s LightMalvern, Pennsylvania
    11:54 A.M. EDT
         THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Let’s get to it.
         MS. LONGWELL:  Let’s do it.  Let’s do it.
         THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Good morning, everyone.
         AUDIENCE:  Good morning.
         AUDIENCE MEMBER:  Happy birthday!
         MS. LONGWELL:  Oh, happy belated birthday.  (Applause.)  Oh, yeah.
    THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Thank you.  Thank you.  I appreciate that.  Thank you. 
         MS. LONGWELL:  Audience members showing me up — that’s tough.  (Laughter.)
    Okay.  So, I’ve got to start with the thing that brings us here today, because I’ve got to say it is unusual for somebody who was as high up in the Republican leadership as Liz Cheney was to be out here campaigning with the Democratic nominee for president. 
    And so, maybe — why don’t both of you tell us, but you start: You’ve actually marshaled unprecedented support from Republicans in this election.  Why do you think that is?
    THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Thank you, Sarah.  Thank you for being here and for your work.  And the congresswoman, thank you. 
    I — I have said before and it must be repeated each time: There are moments in the history of our country which challenge us, each of us, to really decide do we stand for those things that we talk about, including, in particular, country over party.  And you have been extraordinarily courageous in the way that you have done that.  And I thank you for that.  (Applause.)
    So, you know, I have in my career now — whether it was as the elected district attorney, elected attorney general, and then elected United States senator, and, of course, now vice president — I’ve counted that I have taken the oath of office six times.  And for the elected leaders here, we know it is an oath that one must take sincerely and unequivocally, which is an oath, among other things, to support and defend the Constitution of the United States and to understand what those principles represent and what they require of the individual who holds the office and the public trust.
    And let’s not undervalue that point as well.  It is not about the individual.  It is not about what is in their personal interests.  It is about what is for and in the spirit of the public good.     
     And this is a moment in this election that presents a real contrast among how I, as one of the two nominees, and my opponent, the former president, think of that duty.  And it is a duty, by the way.  There are certain things in our lives that we have the choice if we feel like it — (laughter) — and then there are certain things that are just fundamentally a duty, like to raise our children.  Things of that nature.  It is a duty to take seriously that oath and do it for the sake of the public good and in the public trust.
    And I think that at this moment, with the choice that the American people have in this election in — in two weeks and one day, this election is presenting — for the first time, probably, in certainly recent history — a very clear choice and difference between the two nominees.  And I think that is what, as much as anything, is bringing us, as Americans, together, who are understanding that we cannot, with such fundamental stakes being presented, afford to be mired in ideological differences without really staking our claim to the most fundamental ideals upon which our country stands.
    MS. LONGWELL:  Thank you.  And, you know, Congresswoman Cheney, it’s a — sort of the same question to you.  But I got to ask: You know, it’s one thing for Republicans to sign a letter.  You know, we’ve seen that she has — Vice President Harris has been endorsed by 200 Republicans in the national security space, all kinds of people from George W. Bush’s administration.  There’s been a lot of people — they’ll sign letters and maybe they’ll go on T.V., they’ll release a statement.  I was just with Republican Congressman Charlie Dent — former Republican congressman here from the state.  He voted for you in his early voting. 
    But you are out here campaigning.  You are out here holding events.  So, talk about why it’s been so important to you to be as involved as you are in getting Vice President Harris elected.
    MS. CHENEY:  Well, thank you so much, Sarah, for the question.  And — and it’s an honor to be here today with you, Madam Vice President. 
         You know — (applause) —
    THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Thank you.
    MS. CHENEY:  — for me, every — every single thing in — in my experience and in my background has — has played a part in my decision to endorse Vice President Harris. 
    And, you know, that — that begins with the fact that I’m a conservative, and I know that the most conservative of all conservative principles is being faithful to the Constitution.  And you have to choose, in this race, between someone who has been faithful to the Constitution, who will be faithful, and Donald Trump, who it’s not just us predicting how he will act.  We watched what he did after the last election.  We watched what he did on January 6th.
    And so, coming to this as someone who’s been a lifelong Republican, a lifelong conservative, also as someone who spent — I spent time working overseas before I was elected to Congress, and I’ve — I’ve spent time working in countries where people aren’t free and where people are struggling for their freedom, and I know how — how quickly democracies can unravel. 
    And I know that, as Americans, we can become accustomed to thinking, “Well, we don’t have to worry about that here.”  But I tell you, again, as someone who has seen firsthand how quickly it can happen, that that is what’s on the ballot.  That’s absolutely what’s on the ballot.
    I also — I come to this decision as a mother.  I have five children.  And there was a moment right after January 6th when my husband and I were having dinner with our two youngest, our two sons, and I looked across the table at my — my young sons, and I thought to myself, “You know, in the aftermath of the attack on the Capitol, are they going to grow up in a country where we don’t have to worry about the peaceful transfer of power?  Are they going to grow up in a country where that is guaranteed?”
    And — and I believe that every one of us in this election has a duty and an obligation to do what we know is right for the country, and that’s to support Vice President Harris.  So, I’m very honored to be here and to do that.  (Applause.)
         THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Thank you.
    You know, if I can just echo the congresswoman’s point.  So, I’ve now, as vice president, met over 150 world leaders — presidents, prime ministers, chancellors, and kings — many of them multiple times, to the point we’re on a first-name basis.  And the last few times that I’ve seen them in the relative eve of this election, they are very concerned, our allies.  Because, as you know, when we walk in those rooms around the world representing the United States of America, we have traditionally been able to walk in those rooms chin up, shoulders back, with the self-appointed and earned authority to talk about the importance of democracies and rule of law.
    But as all the role models here know, as a role model, people watch what you do to see if it lines up with what you say.  People around the world are watching this. 
    And I — I tell you, sometimes I do fret a bit about whether we, as Americans, truly understand how important we are to the world.  I hope everyone does really understand that we represent something — imperfect though we certainly are; flawed though we may be — we represent, in terms of our ideals, the — the basis of our Constitution, we represent a gold standard. 
    And when we have someone who has been president, who wants to be president again, who is saying he would be dictator on day one, would weaponize our Department of Justice — one of the principles of our democracy is that we say we have a justice system that is blind, that is not punitive against one’s enemies, they are watching.
    So, this is about direct impact on the American people, and it most certainly will impact people around the world. 
    MS. LONGWELL:  You know, I’m so glad you brought that up.  And I — I — as a follow-up, I would just ask Congressman Cheney too.  We live in a dangerous time.  I mean, I think Americans are watching what’s happening overseas in Ukraine, in Israel.  Republicans — we used to be the party that would be on the side of our democratic allies like Ukraine. 
    Talk to me a little bit and all of us about why, from a foreign policy standpoint, you find yourself able to endorse Democrats, who w- — wouldn’t — it didn’t used to be that way.
    MS. CHENEY:  Well, it — it’s not just able to endorse them.  But — but if you look at the numbers of the most senior officials who served Donald Trump — his own vice president; national security advisors; his chief of staff; you know, the — the leading generals who served him — who’ve all said he’s unfit, and people really need to stop and think about how completely unprecedented that is.
    And the — the idea — when people sort of say, “Well, we might, you know, be tempted, for some reason or another, to vote for Donald Trump” — if the issue is foreign policy, I would just ask everyone: Think about how dangerous and damaging it is to have someone who’s totally erratic — totally erratic, completely unstable — someone who has aligned himself with, who idolizes tyrants.  He idolizes tyrants. 
    You know, the — the — again, the choice here, with respect to national security policy, is a man who has proven — he has absolutely proven that he will not stand up, he won’t defend this nation with respect to our own Constitution and rule of law, and Vice President Harris, who has been clear in terms of support for Ukraine, in terms of recognizing and understanding across the board that America cannot maintain our own freedom and security if we walk away from our allies around the world. 
    And our adversaries know that they can play Donald Trump.  They absolutely know that they can play him.  And we simply can’t afford to take that risk.
    So, as someone who has spent a career on national security issues — again, this was not at all a difficult choice for me — the — the choice here is absolutely clear in terms of the necessity of supporting Vice President Harris.
    THE VICE PRESIDENT:  And — and if I may emphasize, part of the backbone of our national security is our military.  And let’s please not overlook how someone who wants to be commander in chief and was has talked about our servicemen and women; has talked about an American hero like John McCain, who was a prisoner of war — said he didn’t respect him, didn’t like him because he got caught; has talked about our service members as — as though they are less than the most courageous of us. 
     Those who put on the uniform, who represent the United States of America, who are willing to die for the sake of everything we stand for, and he calls them “suckers” and “losers.”  These things cannot be overlooked. 
    And — and I have said many times publicly, and I’ll say it again: In many, many ways, Donald Trump is an unserious man, but the consequences of him being president of the United States are brutally serious.  There are things that he says that will be the subject of skits and laughter and jokes, but words have meaning coming from someone who aspires to stand behind the seal of the president of the United States.  These are the things that are at stake.
         MS. LONGWELL:  Couldn’t agree more. 
    So, I do want to ask you another question, though, before we go to the audience.  You know, you talk a lot about a new way forward.  You talk about turning the page.  What’s on the next page?  Talk to us about a —
    THE VICE PRESIDENT:  You want a preview.
    MS. LONGWELL:  Yeah.  Give me — a spoiler alert.  You know?  (Laughter.)  Just —
    THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Right.
    MS. LONGWELL:  — tell us — tell us what’s — what’s in the rest of the chapter.
    THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Well, first of all, I will say that it — it is a metaphor that is meant to also describe my intention to embark on a new generation of leadership.  And needless to say, mine will not be a continuation of the Biden administration.  I bring to it my own ideas, my own experiences.
    But it is also about moving past what, frankly, I think has been the last decade of — of the American discourse being influenced by Donald Trump in a way that has had the effect of suggesting we, as Americans, should point the finger at one another, in a way that has been using the power of the presidency to demean and to divide us.
    I think people are exhausted with that, rightly.  And it, frankly, does not lead to the strength of our nation to tell the American people that we must be suspicious of one another, distrust one another.
    You know, yesterday, I — I did a couple of church services, and there’s a — we — many people here know the — the parable of the Good Samaritan.  And there is an essence — a piece of that, in my own words, that really requires us, I think, to see in the face of a — of a stranger, to see a neighbor.  Right?  That spirit.  And I think we need to get back to that.
    The spirit of the American people is such that, you know, we are an ambitious people.  We are aspirational.  We have dreams.  And that is productive. 
    It is not productive of us to be a nation of people who are pointing fingers at one another, who don’t understand that the vast majority of us have so much more in common than what separates us.
    So, that’s what I mean about turning the page.  And then a new generation of leadership about being ambitious, about all we have yet to do. 
    Part of my economic policy — I refer to it as an opportunity economy — is about investing in American industries while leaving none of our traditional, wonderful industries behind; repurposing and retooling the factories that have led to America’s success in industry, while at the same time redefining how we are thinking about which worker has the experience and skill to do the — the job and is qualified and understanding we shouldn’t be falling into a trap that suggests only those with a college degree have the skill or the experience to do the job.  So, let’s look at how we redefine and perhaps even reorder. 
    And, in fact, I’m going to start with federal jobs, and then I’m going to challenge the private sector to do the same.  Let’s look at which of those jobs would benefit from a skilled, experienced worker who perhaps went through an apprenticeship program — not a four-year college, but still had a four-year degree, in essence.
         So, these are the kinds of things that are about seeing the opportunity of this moment and investing in it.
         I’ll tell you — and I know this is a controversial topic for many of us — I love Gen Z.  (Laughter.)  Because we have Gen Zs in our lives.  We have kids who are Gen Zs.  It can be complicated, I know.  I love Gen Z.
         These young leaders are so — they’re clear-eyed.  You know, they’ve only known the climate crisis.  They’ve only known active shooter drills.  I mean, we had fire drills.  Not — not our kids, right?
         But they also — they’re — they’re so wonderfully impatient — (laughter) — ri- — no, really, that’s good.  That’s good.  They are ready to get in there.  Let’s invest in them.  Let —
         So, for example, one of my — one piece of my opportunity economy is we got to deal with the reality of where we are right now.  The American dream, for previous generations, was something that people could kind of count on.  Not so much anymore, in terms of homeownership.  We have a housing shortage in America.  We have a supply shortage.
         So, part of my plan is, hey, let’s be clear-eyed about this moment.  Let’s invest in the future.  And as a — a devout public servant, I also know the limitations of government.  I want to work with the private sector.  I have, in my career.  The skills, the breadth, the depth of — of value in those active partnerships benefit us all.
         So, part of my plan for housing is to actively partner with building developers, with homebuilders to create tax credits to increase the supply of housing in America.  My estimate is — I think we can actually do it — by 3 million by the end of my first term.
         Part of my approach that is about a new generation, potentially, of leadership and certainly a different approach: Most of my career was not spent in Washington, D.C.  I say that with pride.  (Laughter.) 
         In that, you know, most of my career was spent as a prosecutor, but I — making decisions that had a direct impact on people’s lives.  You know, I learned at a very young age, as a prosecutor, that the things that I would do with the swipe of my pen could result in someone having their liberty or not.  
         When I was attorney general of California — which is, you know, by estimates, the fifth-largest economy in the world — I was acutely aware the words I spoke could move markets. 
         I like getting things done.  And part of my approach, which is, I think, about a new generation of leadership, is: Let’s cut through the red tape.  Let’s cut through the bureaucracy while still knowing the virtues of the work that we can do in the public sector, be it public education, public health, public safety.
         MS. LONGWELL:  This is a perfect segue into our first audience question, which is going to come from Alexandra Miller from Delaware County.  Main section, right — right there. 
         Hi, Alexandra. 
         Q    Hello.  Hello, Madam Vice President and Representative Cheney.
         MS. CHENEY:  Hi there.
         THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Hi.
         Q    Thank you for taking my question today.  My name is Alex.  I have a 7-year-old son and a wonderful 72-year-old mother who is suffering from dementia and requires full-time care. 
         My son is in second grade, my mother is in a nursing home, and I work full time.  The costs of childcare and of eldercare are staggering.  But simultaneously, professionals that help care for both our children and our elders are generally underpaid, which makes it difficult for them to support their own families and do the jobs that they need to do. 
         How do you propose to help bridge this gap, making both child- and eldercare more affordable for hardworking families and also retaining and attracting quality talent for this — these essential jobs?
         THE VICE PRESIDENT:  So, first of all, you’re dealing with a lot.  You’re dealing with a lot, and I just wish you strength and support.  You are a part of what we call the “sandwich generation,” which are those parents and children who are right in the middle.  They are taking care of their young children and taking care of their parents as they age.  And it’s a lot.
         And so, I actually plan to address this in a substantial way because I actually bring a personal experience to it as well.  I took care of my mother when she was sick, and that work is the work of trying to cook something that they feel like eating — right? — trying to figure out which clothes will not irritate their skin and help them put on a sweater.  It’s about trying to figure out how you can say something that brings a smile to their face or makes them laugh.  It’s about dignity. 
         Meanwhile, you have a second-grader.  You’re trying to teach that kid how to read — (laughter) — spending time with them, reminding them they are special and can be anything. 
         And in the middle of all of that, if you are working or just to have a minute to breathe, it’s a lot.  It’s a lot. 
         So, what — the way that this plays out for many people is — is one of just a couple of ways.  One, if you have the good fortune of having enough extra money, you can hire somebody to come in.  And then, exactly as you said, you — knowing what you just shared with us about yourself — would pay them the value of their work.  Or someone in this position would have to basically spend down all their savings so they could qualify for Medicaid, which means they pretty much have to get rid of everything.  Or they have to quit their job, which means one less income in their household. 
         And this is a matter — this issue, for me, is a matter of dignity — yours, your parents, and the well-being of your child and you being able to do what you naturally want to do, and which — and the thing that we should value in our society, which is someone like you who is taking on the duty and the responsibility of all of that. 
         So, my plan is that instead of those scenarios I just mapped out, we will restructure it so that Medicare covers the cost of in-home health care for your parent so that they can be at home — (applause) — and you can then have the assistance with someone who can help prepare that meal, help them get dressed, and you can still give that baby of yours all the love that they deserve.  And you can have sanity in the process.  And everyone can have dignity. 
         And so, this is — this is my approach, which is let’s just look at this as an — let’s just come at it from common sense, by the way.  It’s just common sense.  And what makes — what is a — a commonsense, practical approach to doing this, because when you are able to be productive, we all benefit, by the way.  When that child is able to have a parent who is able to help them with their reading and remind that child that they are special, we are all going to benefit from that. 
         So, thank you for raising the subject.  (Applause.)  And you take care of yourself.
         MS. LONGWELL:  Okay.  Next we’re going to call on Ashley Scott, speaking of Gen Z — although I guess I shouldn’t assume I know what generation she’s from, but she is a student from Bucks County.  Hi.
         Q    Hi, Vice President Harris and Congresswoman Cheney.  My name is Ashley Scott.  I’m from Bucks County, Pennsylvania, and I am Gen Z.  I’m 22 years old.  (Laughter.)
         MS. LONGWELL:  Nailed it.
         THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Good for you.  (Laughs.)
         Q    So, thank you for that compliment.  But yeah, my question is about maternal health.  Specifically, in the United States, maternal mortality is devastating.  The rates are terrible.  And I was wondering if you have a plan to combat the crisis.
         THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Thank you, Ashley, and thank you for being here and your voice.  It’s a big issue.  So, we have the very, I think, shameful distinction of — of any wealthy nation having one of, if not the highest, rate of maternal mortality. 
         And I’ve studied this issue.  I worked on it was on — when I was in the United States Senate and as vice president.  And the fact is that 90 percent of them are preventable, which tells us we can do something about it, right? 
         And it is an issue — so, Black women are three to four times more likely to die in connection with childbirth; Native women are, like, twice as likely; rural women, one and a half times as likely. 
         One of the common threads that you will see in those demographic populations is a lack of appropriate prenatal care and then care during the term of their pregnancy and then postpartum care.  And we know that when that care is available, they are having a healthier and, by the way, happier experience.  And the long-term impact to all of us as a society, much less to that family, is immense. 
         And so, the work that we have been doing and the work I intend to do going forward is to address that, right?  So, for example, in rural America, the — the way that the system has been structured — the health care system has been structured is a lot of those hospitals and clinics have had to close because of the way we — we reimburse based on population size.  And as people are leaving rural America, then the hospitals and the clinics can’t afford the overhead. 
         I’m oversimplifying but just to make the point.  So, we need to address that in terms of how we’re structuring, how we create incentives and — and give the resources to those health care facilities, be they clinics or hospitals. 
         The other piece that we have to do is really just talk more about the issue around also how, in the health care system, we are treating women and are we taking women seriously when they talk about their health care concerns. 
         So, again, personal experience, my mother had two goals in her life: to raise her two daughters, my sister and I, and to end breast cancer.  My mother was a breast cancer researcher.  And she was so passionate about women’s health care, and I remember it as a young girl and throughout my life. 
         And we still have a lot of work to do to make sure that when she walks into that clinic, that doctor’s office, that hospital, that when — that she’s taken seriously.  And — and that’s also about what we do in terms of training within the profession.  It’s also about what we do in terms of public education to get information to women so that they know that they are not just complaining and they should not suppress or subordinate what their concerns might be about themselves because they’re taking care of everybody else. 
         So, there’s a lot of work to do.  And, of course, there’s a connection between this and what we need to do since the Dobbs decision came down, when we are looking at — I’ve met with a lot of, in particular, OB-GYNs who are concerned that there are kids going through — excuse me, young people going through their medical school who are now feeling deterred from engaging in reproductive health work. 
         And reproductive health work is vast.  It is not only about abortion; it is about a whole array of care.  And we want to make sure that we’re not creating disincentives for people to go into that very, very important profession. 
         And then we also want to make sure that we are, in the whole issue of reproductive care, not suggesting to women or the people who love them that they should be judged, because there is that also when you’re talking about reproductive care, where women sometimes are made to feel or do feel embarrassed to talk about their needs as it relates to their reproductive health.
         And then, of course, I feel very strongly the government should not be telling any woman what to do with her body.  (Applause.)  (Laughs.)  And when Congress passes a law reinstating the reproductive freedoms of women, I will gladly and proudly sign it into law, because I strongly believe one does not have to give up or abandon their own faith or beliefs to agree that — not the government telling her what to do.  If she chooses, she will consult with her priest, her pastor, her rabbi, her imam, but not the government. 
         We’ve seen too much harm — real harm — happen to women and the people who love them around our country since that decision came down, including women who have died.  And I don’t think that most people who — before the Dobbs decision came down — who had strong opinions about this — I don’t think most people intended that the harm that we’ve seen would have actually happened.
         MS. CHENEY:  Can I add to this just to — because I — I think it’s such an important point.  And I think there are many of us around the country who have been pro-life but who have watched what’s going on in our states since the Dobbs decision and have watched state legislatures put in place laws that are resulting in women not getting the care they need. 
         And so, I think this — this is not an issue that we’re seeing break down across party lines —
         THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Right.
         MS. CHENEY:  — but I think we’re seeing people come together to say what has happened to women, when women are facing situations where they can’t get the care they need — where in places like Texas, for example, the attorney general is talking about suing — is suing to get access to women’s medical records — that’s not sustainable for us as — as a country, and — and it has to change.  (Applause.)
         THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Yeah.  Yeah.
         MS. LONGWELL:  So, as we come close to time here, I want to ask you both kind of a final question.  You know, I — I watch the — the conversation in the country and the way that the media covers this election, and it’s often about the race: Who’s up in a poll?  Who’s down in a poll?  And I — I don’t always feel like we’re talking about the stakes enough. 
         And Liz Cheney would not be here if she didn’t think that the stakes were very high.  And frankly, the Republicans wouldn’t be so angry at you if they didn’t think you were an effective surrogate as somebody speaking about the stakes.  (Applause.)
         THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Some Republicans.  Some Republicans.
         MS. LONGWELL:  Some Republicans.  Some Republicans.  #NotAllRepublicans.  (Laughter.)
         THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Because I’ve seen a lot of Republicans — just I’ve seen it and I know it happens — who thank her constantly. 
         MS. LONGWELL:  I — I know it.
         THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Yeah.  Yeah.
         MS. LONGWELL:  I know it.
         MS. CHENEY:  They’re going to vote the right way on November 5th. 
         MS. LONGWELL:  That’s right.
         MS. CHENEY:  They might not think public about it, but — but they’ll do what — what they know is right.  (Applause.)
         THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Yeah.  I agree.  I agree.  I agree.
         MS. LONGWELL:  But just to close and — and maybe starting with you, Congresswoman, so you can have the last word.  Talk to me and all of us about the stakes.  Many people in the room here are undecided voters.  What’s — what’s kind of the last pitch that you would make about why this election is so important and why you believe they should vote for the vice president here?
         MS. CHENEY:  Well, I think that in this election, and especially here in Pennsylvania, we have the opportunity to tell the whole world who we are.  And we have the chance to say, you know, we’re — we’re going to reject cruelty.  We’re going to reject the kind of vile vitriol that we’ve seen from Donald Trump.  We’re going to reject the misogyny that we’ve seen from Donald Trump and J.D. Vance.  (Applause.) 
         THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Right.
         MS. CHENEY:  And we have the chance in this race to elect somebody who you know is going to defend the rule of law.  You know Vice President Harris is going to defend our Constitution. 
         We have the chance to remind people that we are a good country.  We are a good and honorable people.  We are a great nation. 
         And — and in this race, we have the opportunity to vote for and support somebody you can count on. 
         We’re not always going to agree, but I know Vice President Harris will always do what she believes is right for this country.  She has a sincere heart, and that’s why I’m honored to be here and supporting her in this race.  (Applause.)
         THE VICE PRESIDENT:  I mean, I — exactly.  The — listen, so, in my career as a prosecutor — you’ve heard me say this — I — I never, ever asked a victim or a witness, “Are you a Republican or a Democrat?”  Never.  It wouldn’t have even occurred to me to ask them.  I did, every time, ask, “Are you okay?”
         And I — you know, and I feel very strongly that — for example, in — on the issue of partisanship, yes, we’re going to have disagreements, but I actively invite good ideas from wherever they come.  That’s why I’m going to have a Republican in my Cabinet, by the way — (applause) — because I want good ideas.
         And, by the way, I know it is in our best interest as a nation, in our — the interest of our strength and our future as a nation.  We need a healthy two-party system.  We need a healthy two-party system.  (Applause.)
         We need to be able to have these good, intense debates about issues that are grounded in fact.  (Laughter.)  How about that?
         MS. CHENEY:  Imagine.
    .
         THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Let’s start there.  (Laughs.)  (Applause.)
         Wow.  Can you believe that’s an applause line?  (Laughter.) 
         Oy.  But, you know, it’s — (laughter) — it’s — 
         We have in our grasp in these next 13 days — 13 days, we are — or 15 days, excuse me.  I — I’m just jumping ahead.  (Laughter.)  In these next 15 days, we have in our grasp the ability to determine the course of our country. 
         You know, every election, we’ve said, “This is the one.”  This is the one.  This truly is the one. 
         I mean, to the congresswoman’s point, the former chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff referred to Donald Trump as being “fascist to the core.”  And no one would ever accuse the former chairman of being partisan in any way.  The people who know him best — from the former chief of staff; Defense secretaries, two of them; national security advisor to the former vice president.
         And so, we have in — in our grasp — because we still have a democracy.  As the saying goes, as long as we hold on to it, we still have a democracy, which means in a democracy — and here’s the beauty of it — we each have the power to make a decision about the future of our country through our vote.
         And my request, then, of each of you who have spent time out of your busy lives to be here — and I thank you for that — is please just help us get the word out to your neighbors and friends and family members to just remind them of what is at stake and this conversation. 
         I ask for your vote.  I ask for their votes.  And I promise to be a president for all Americans.  I promise and pledge that.  (Applause.)
         MS. LONGWELL:  All right, everyone.  Congresswoman Cheney and Vice President Kamala Harris.  Thank you so much. 
         Yes, let’s give them another round of applause.  That was wonderful.  (Applause.)
         Thank you so much.
         THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Thank you.  Thank you.
         MS. LONGWELL:  Thank you.  (Applause.)

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Stats NZ information release: Overseas merchandise trade: September 2024

    Source: Statistics New Zealand

    Overseas merchandise trade: September 2024 – information release – 22 October 2024 – Overseas merchandise trade statistics provide information on imports and exports of merchandise goods between New Zealand and other countries.

    Key facts
    This release refers to trade in goods only.

    In September 2024, compared with September 2023:

    • goods exports rose by $246 million (5.2 percent), to $5.0 billion
    • goods imports fell by $67 million (0.9 percent), to $7.1 billion
    • the monthly trade balance was a deficit of $2.1 billion.

    Visit our website to read this information release:

     

    MIL OSI New Zealand News

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Total greenhouse gas emissions rise 1.1 percent in the June 2024 quarter – Stats NZ media and information release: Greenhouse gas emissions (industry and household): June 2024 quarter

    Source: Statistics New Zealand

    Total greenhouse gas emissions rise 1.1 percent in the June 2024 quarter22 October 2024 – Seasonally adjusted industry and household greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions increased 1.1 percent in the June 2024 quarter, according to figures released by Stats NZ today.

    “This increase of 224 kilotonnes during the quarter was due to more emissions from industry, particularly from the electricity, gas, water, and waste services industry,” environment statistics unit manager Tehseen Islam said.

    Over this quarter, industry emissions (excluding households) increased by 1.7 percent (292 kilotonnes). By comparison, gross domestic product (GDP), which accounts for industry production, decreased 0.2 percent in the same period.

    Emissions from households fell 1.2 percent (26 kilotonnes) in the June 2024 quarter.

    Visit our website to read this news story and information release and to download CSV files:

    MIL OSI New Zealand News

  • MIL-OSI USA: State of Alaska and FEMA Announce FEMA Assistance Now Available for Flooding Survivors

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: State of Alaska and FEMA Announce FEMA Assistance Now Available for Flooding Survivors

    State of Alaska and FEMA Announce FEMA Assistance Now Available for Flooding Survivors

    ANCHORAGE, Alaska – FEMA Individual Assistance is now available for residents in the City and Borough of Juneau affected by the flooding that occurred August 5-6, 2024. Assistance may include funds for home repairs, temporary rental assistance, damaged vehicles and essential personal property, loss of subsistence items, as well as medical, dental, and funeral expenses caused by the disaster.

    FEMA assistance is unable to duplicate benefits offered through insurance, state programs, or other programs. But if your losses or damage go beyond disaster assistance available from other sources – or include items or categories not covered by other assistance – you may be eligible for additional funds from FEMA. Even if you have already registered for the State of Alaska’s disaster assistance program, you must also register with FEMA to determine if you may be eligible to receive additional funds through FEMA. 

    • Residents are encouraged to apply for FEMA assistance by calling the FEMA Region 10 Call Center at 866-342-1699 between 7 a.m.-4 p.m. AKT, Monday through Friday and 11 a.m.-4 p.m. AKT, Saturday. The FEMA Region 10 Call Center has staff trained to answer Alaska-specific questions. You can also apply by visiting disasterassistance.gov or using the FEMA mobile app.
    • If a reasonable accommodation – such as language translation or interpretation, mobility assistance, or sign language interpretation is needed – email FEMA-language-access-request@fema.dhs.gov. You can also notify FEMA staff through the FEMA Region 10 Call Center Helpline.

    The U.S. Small Business Administration also offers long-term disaster loans to businesses of all sizes, private nonprofit organizations, as well as homeowners and renters to pay for repair or replacement costs not fully compensated by insurance or other assistance. For more information, go to: http://www.sba.gov/disaster or call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955, or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

    In addition to Individual Assistance, designated areas in the City and Borough of Juneau have also been approved for Public Assistance which will reimburse the State of Alaska, on a cost-share basis, for emergency protective measures taken in response to the disaster. The State of Alaska has also been approved for additional funding, on a cost-share basis, for hazard mitigation measures.

    Additional designations may be made at a later date. 

    erika.suzuki

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: FEMA, SBA and USDA create Recovery Resource Guide for Local Business Owners

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: FEMA, SBA and USDA create Recovery Resource Guide for Local Business Owners

    FEMA, SBA and USDA create Recovery Resource Guide for Local Business Owners

    WASHINGTON – FEMA, the U.S. Small Business Administration and the U.S. Department of Agriculture have collaborated to create a guide to help local businesses affected by hurricanes Helene and Milton access recovery resources.

    The agencies created a one-stop-shop resource with information about federal support that is available to assist local businesses with their recovery. The guide—tailored for each affected state—is available on FEMA’s website at the links below:

    Many local business owners are also disaster survivors. This means they’re dealing with two separate recoveries, one for their household and another for their business.

    Recovery for local businesses after events like Helene and Milton may seem daunting. FEMA encourages chambers of commerce and other civic organizations to share this guide to help local businesses recover.
    Below are examples of the resources available to local businesses and their owners:

    • FEMA grants to make home repairs.
    • Low interest disaster loans from the SBA to repair homes and businesses. Business owners may also qualify for loans for economic injury.
    • Disaster Recovery Centers where business owners and survivors can meet representatives from various federal agencies who may be able to help. Centers are open in every state affected by Helene and Milton.
    • SBA Business Physical Disaster Loans. The SBA provides long-term low interest loans up to $2 million to cover disaster losses not fully covered by insurance.  
    • SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loans. The SBA provides long-term low interest loans up to $2 million for working capital to help small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, and most private nonprofit organizations impacted by a disaster meet their ordinary and necessary financial obligations until normal operations resume.  
    • Livestock indemnity. The USDA provides benefits to livestock owners and contract growers for livestock deaths. 
    • Emergency loans. The USDA provides loans to help producers recover from production and physical losses.

    A full list of more than 70 resources from 17 federal agencies is available on disasterassistance.gov.

    President Biden has declared a major disaster for six states affected by Helene—Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia—and Florida for Milton.

    FEMA reminds survivors affected by hurricanes Helene or Milton that they can apply for FEMA assistance in four ways: online at disasterassistance.gov, on the FEMA App, calling 800-621-3362, or in person at a local Disaster Recovery Center.

    erika.suzuki

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: S. 2086, Sea Turtle Rescue Assistance and Rehabilitation Act of 2023

    Source: US Congressional Budget Office

    S. 2086 would authorize the appropriation of $5 million annually for fiscal years 2025 through 2030 for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for grants to rescue and rehabilitate stranded marine turtles. Those grants would support marine turtle rescue and recovery, data collection, research; and the operating costs for research and rehabilitation facilities. In 2024, NOAA allocated $3 million for those activities.

    S. 2086 also would authorize the appropriation of $500,000 annually for fiscal years 2025 through 2030 for each of two interest-bearing trust funds. Under current law, one of those funds, the Joseph R. Geraci Marine Mammal Rescue and Rapid Response Fund is authorized to be appropriated $500,000 annually through 2028. Therefore, CBO estimates the bill would authorize the appropriation of an additional $4 million over the 2025-2030 period for the two funds.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: H.R. 9489, Advisory Committee on the Records of Congress Sunset Act of 2024

    Source: US Congressional Budget Office

    H.R. 9489 would eliminate the Advisory Committee on the Records of Congress and instead require the National Archive and Records Administration (NARA) to report annually on the management and preservation of Congressional records to the Clerk of the House of Representatives, the Secretary of the Senate, and the Archivist of the United States. 

    Using information from NARA and the General Services Administration, CBO estimates that any net changes in administrative costs under the bill would not be significant over the 2025-2029 period. Any related spending would be subject to the availability of appropriated funds.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: H.R. 9458, Enhancing Stakeholder Support and Outreach for Preparedness Grants Act

    Source: US Congressional Budget Office

    H.R. 9458 would require the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to expand technical assistance, outreach, training, and other support activities that the agency currently provides under the State Homeland Security Grant Program and the Urban Area Security Initiative. Both programs provide grants to state governments to address terrorism and other security threats by funding security operations, planning, training, equipment purchases, and other activities. 

    The bill would require FEMA to conduct annual surveys to gather feedback from state, local, and tribal governments about their needs, the grant process, and the effectiveness of the agency’s outreach efforts. FEMA would need to report to the Congress on its implementation of the bill within three years of enactment. Finally, H.R. 9458 would require the Government Accountability Office (GAO), within two years of enactment, to assess the effectiveness of FEMA’s assistance to interested parties throughout the lifecycle of grants made for both programs.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Landmarks Lit Celebrating New York Liberty’s WNBA Finals Win

    Source: US State of New York

    Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that New York State landmarks will be lit seafoam green and white on Oct. 21, 2024 to celebrate the New York Liberty winning the Women’s National Basketball Association championship. The Liberty defeated the Minnesota Lynx in Game 5 of a best-of-five series to claim the team’s first title in its 28-year history.

    “New York is a great sports state, and last night’s game not only earned the Liberty their first championship title, but also a championship title for the State of New York,” Governor Hochul said. “The thrill and anticipation, and the nail-biting victory created an electric night for all New Yorkers, and I am incredibly proud of each of the Liberty’s players as we continue to celebrate their well-deserved win.”

    The landmarks that will be lit in celebration include:

    • Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge
    • Kosciuszko Bridge
    • The H. Carl McCall SUNY Building
    • State Education Building
    • Alfred E. Smith State Office Building
    • One World Trade Center
    • Empire State Plaza
    • Niagara Falls
    • The “Franklin D. Roosevelt” Mid-Hudson Bridge
    • Albany International Airport Gateway
    • MTA LIRR – East End Gateway at Penn Station
    • Fairport Lift Bridge over the Erie Canal
    • Moynihan Train Hall
    • Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park

    New York Liberty claimed its first WNBA championship title at home in Brooklyn’s Barclays Center on Oct. 20, 2024 during its 19th playoff appearance in franchise history. The Minnesota Lynx led by two points in the waning seconds of Game 5, but with 5.2 seconds left, a shooting foul called on Alanna Smith of the Lynx led to two successful free throw attempts by the Liberty’s all-WNBA and two-time MVP forward Breanna Stewart, tying the game at 60. In overtime, the New York Liberty came out on top, sealing their championship run with a 67-62 win over the Lynx in a winner-take-all Game 5.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Kelly Announces Evergy to Invest More than $2B in Two New High-efficiency Natural Gas Plants – Governor of the State of Kansas

    Source: US State of Kansas

    HUTCHINSON  Governor Laura Kelly joined Evergy executives and legislative leaders today to announce that the company will invest more than $2 billion in building two new 705 megawatt (MW) combined-cycle natural gas plants in Kansas. Together, the new projects will provide more than 1,400 MW of dispatchable power.

    “Kansas is experiencing record economic growth, and Evergy is prepared to deliver the reliable, affordable, and sustainable energy needed.” Governor Laura Kelly said. “Evergy’s multi-billion-dollar investment brings direct value to the Hutchinson and Sumner County areas in jobs and tax dollars. It also ensures Kansas can continue to invite business growth that benefits the entire state.”

    The plant in Sumner County is expected to begin providing electricity in 2029, and the plant in Reno County is expected to be in service in 2030.

    “High-efficiency, modern natural gas plants will meet the electricity needs for our region’s growing economy. These plants also will bring good paying jobs and tax dollars to Kansas,” said David Campbell, Evergy chairman, president and chief executive officer. “Dispatchable natural gas is an important resource within Evergy’s growing and diverse energy portfolio, complementing our planned investment in wind and solar resources and supporting our commitment to affordable, reliable, and sustainable electricity.”

    During construction, more than 500 jobs are anticipated for each plant. After a 10-year exemption, each plant will provide more than $500 million in property tax revenues over its service life and will bring to the communities 20 to 40 skilled craft jobs that pay more than $90,000 annually.

    Since 2019, the Kelly administration has created 1,284 committed economic development projects worth more than $19.9 billion in capital investment and nearly 69,000 jobs.

    This spring, Governor Kelly signed House Bill 2527, a bipartisan bill that enhances Kansas policies to incentivize electric infrastructure investment, which is critical to ensuring Kansas has the infrastructure needed to meet the energy needs of Kansas citizens and businesses. This legislation makes Kansas more competitive for investment, increases opportunities for economic development, and ultimately saves Kansas ratepayers money on their electric bills.

    “We are pleased that a legislative policy we championed is helping ensure a strong energy future for the state of Kansas,” Speaker of the House Dan Hawkins said. “I look forward to seeing the benefits this brings in terms of jobs, economic growth, and energy security for our state for years to come.”

    “Kansans depend on reliable electricity each and every day to power their lives and their businesses,” Senate President Ty Masterson said. “These investments by a long-time Kansas energy company will make our state even more attractive to those wanting to live, work, and grow a business in our great state.”

    Photos from today’s announcement for media use are available below.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: New Zealanders want publicly-owned rail ferries!

    Source: Maritime Union of New Zealand

    New polling released on 15 October by the Maritime Union of New Zealand (MUNZ) shows the public wants publicly owned, rail enabled ferries.

    The poll was conducted by Talbot Mills over the period of 2-14 October and asked:

    New ferry options

    As you may be aware, in relation to the Cook Strait ferries, “rail-enabled” means freight carriages can roll onto and off of the ferry directly rather than requiring unloading and reloading onto trucks as additional handling steps on each side of Cook Strait. The efficiency gains of being “rail enabled” is thought to add 10-20% to the overall cost to the ferries/infrastructure. The government is now considering three possible options for new ferries. Which of the following options is closest to the one you would support? 

    Results showed a clear public preference:

    Maritime Union spokesperson Victor Billot says “This shows that New Zealanders can see the terrible mistake the Minister has made in cancelling the new rail ferries and that is only going to get more obvious as the massive costs of this fiasco, like the cancellation fee of up to a half a billion dollars, come to light.

    “Rail enabled and publicly owned ferries are vital to New Zealand’s domestic freight. No rail ferries would likely mean no viable rail system, and privatising would be like putting a toll booth on the strait and sending the revenue overseas.

    “Unions want rail-enabled ferries, so do logistics companies including Mainfreight, New Zealand First has just said they want them, and now it’s clear the people of New Zealand want them too. The question is why is the Finance Minister so intent on forcing New Zealanders into a bad deal that nobody wants?”

    Road-bridging – the practice of taking containers from trains and transporting them onto non-rail ferries adds up to $200 per container cost and takes up to three hours more per sailing. Industry experts have noted this additional cost would price rail out of the north/south freight market.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Appointments – GUARDIANS OF NEW ZEALAND SUPERANNUATION APPOINTS CO-CIOS

    Source: Guardians of New Zealand Superannuation

    The Guardians of New Zealand Superannuation, manager of the New Zealand Superannuation Fund, has appointed Brad Dunstan and Will Goodwin as joint Chief Investment Officers, effective 2 December 2024.

    The announcement follows a global search to replace former CIO Stephen Gilmore, who left the Guardians at the end of June.

    Guardians CEO Jo Townsend said Mr Gilmore’s departure had created an opportunity for the Guardians to review the way the investment team was structured.

    “Taking into account the projected future growth of the Fund and the increasingly complex and challenging investment environment in which we are operating, it makes sense to combine the functions of the CIO and the GM Portfolio Completion and create a co-CIO model,” Ms Townsend said.

    Mr Dunstan and Mr Goodwin, currently the Guardians’ Acting GM Portfolio Completion and Head of Direct Investments respectively, have both been with the Guardians for several years.

    Ms Townsend said the two men’s broad experience had been a tremendous asset to the Guardians’ management of the Super Fund, and the new structure would enable the Guardians to get the very best out of their complementary skills and expertise.

    Alex Bacchus will continue as Acting CIO until the new structure is implemented.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Local News – WELLfed’s home gets upgrade – Porirua

    Source: Porirua City Council

    A building in Cannons Creek that is home to one of Porirua’s well-known charities has received a welcome facelift.
    WELLfed, an adult education programme where people learn valuable cooking skills, has been operating out of a Porirua City Council-owned building on Hampshire St since 2019.
    Recently the building received some much-needed TLC, including a full reclad, new windows and a sparkling paint job. Asbestos was removed as part of the upgrade.
    Aligning with Council’s kaupapa to reduce, reuse and recycle, contracting team James Henry Ltd was able to salvage some of the matai weatherboards removed from the building to make into chopping boards for use in the WELLfed kitchen – you can’t get more circular than that!
    Porirua Mayor Anita Baker says it is fantastic to see a Council facility get an upgrade, especially one that will enable such a popular community organisation to carry on their good work.
    “This is fantastic news, because many of us have seen first-hand the incredible job WELLfed does in Porirua – they’re not about a hand-out, but a hand-up, so having them operate in a building in good condition is important.
    “WELLfed is a shining example of the community spirit that is alive and well in our city and they inspire with their vision and impact, so I’m hugely pleased they have a nice building to get on with what they do.”
    WELLfed is a free adult education programme that teaches valuable cooking skills and more. They focus on teaching how to plan, shop for, and cook affordable healthy meals, emphasising the use of fresh, seasonal fruits and vegetables. You can learn about their mahi at http://www.wellfed.kiwi

    MIL OSI New Zealand News

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Local News – Cemeteries Week shines a light on our history and heritage

    Source: Porirua City Council

    Porirua’s annual Cemeteries Week begins 26 October, offering insights into our city’s history and heritage.
    You can take guided walks, at Pāuatahanui Burial Ground, St Alban’s Church, St Joseph’s Church (Pāuatahanui), and Porirua Cemetery on Kenepuru Drive, shedding light on some notable stories in our city’s past. There’s also the chance to pull back the curtain a little with a tour of the Crematorium at Whenua Tapu.
    The guided walks and crematorium tour are all free and also form part of the Wellington Heritage Festival, which has events right across the region.
    “There are wonderful and incredibly interesting stories to be told, right here in our back yard,” Porirua Mayor Anita Baker says.
    “I love the talks that our local historians give, because understanding what has gone on in Porirua’s past can give us an understanding of where we are today. Our cemeteries and urupa have key people buried there who make up our rich and varied heritage.
    “It’s fascinating and colourful and I thank all of those for giving their time to make Cemeteries Week happen – you can stroll through these picturesque places, learning and reflecting on our past.”
    Local iwi, war veterans and settlers who helped forge the city are buried in the older cemeteries, giving historians plenty of opportunities to bring Porirua’s history to new audiences.
    Along with QR codes near the graves of war veterans, Porirua Cemetery also recently had new signage put in, with a map, information, history and a guide to finding loved ones buried there.
    In Porirua, the Cemeteries Week and Heritage Festival events are:
    26 October, 2pm – Whenua Tapu crematorium open day, with cemeteries manager Daniel Chrisp
    2 November, 11am – Porirua Cemetery, Fragments of Time guided walk, with historian Allan Dodson
    9 November, 2pm – St Joseph’s Church talk, Robert McClean
    10 November, 10am – Pāuatahanui Burial Grounds guided walk.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Candy leaf has Potential beyond its Natural Sweetening properties

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 21 OCT 2024 4:07PM by PIB Delhi

    Candy Leaf (Stevia rebaudiana (Bertoni) Bertoni) a plant recognized for its natural non-caloric sweetening characteristics, also has therapeutic properties for diseases like endocrine, metabolic, immune, and cardiovascular diseases, because of its effect on cellular signalling systems according to a new study.

    Assam exports Stevia worldwide. The North Eastern Council (Government of India) also highlighted stevia cultivation’s potential to help the northeast Indian economy due to high demand and use.

    At the Institute of Advanced Study in Science and Technology (IASST) in Guwahati, an autonomous institute of Department of Science and Technology, a team of researchers Dr. Asis Bala, Associate. Professor, Prof. Ashis K. Mukherjee, Director, and Ms. Piyali Devroy, Research Scholar did pioneering research on Stevia’s medicinal properties, effects on cellular signalling mechanisms to prove the Assam’s Stevia’s therapeutic qualities.

    Their multimodal strategy integrated network pharmacology with in vitro and in vivo techniques, showing that the plant used phosphorylation of Protein Kinase C (PKC) to inhibit a crucial cellular signalling route.

    PKC is connected to inflammatory, autoimmune, endocrine, and cardiovascular illnesses. Stevia suppresses PKC phosphorylation, which alters downstream pathways that cause inflammation, a significant cause of endocrine metabolic and cardiovascular issues.

    The study shows Stevia’s promise in this field for the first time. The study also found that active stevia molecules strongly interact with AMPK, highlighting the need for additional research.

    This work published in the journal “Food Bioscience” revealed Stevia’s potential and identified new targets for immunological endocrine and cardiovascular problems. It could have therapeutic effect on diabetes, type 1, type 2, autoimmune diabetes, pre-diabetes, chronic inflammation related auto immune disease – rheumatoid arthritis; chronic kidney diseases and cardiovascular diseases like hypertension; vasculopathy and so on.

    The study illuminates an undiscovered facet of Stevia, underlining the necessity of creative tactics and scientific data to support traditional therapeutic practices.

    Figure: The scientific method used by the research team: The network pharmacology to identify the target and then performed molecular docking for target validation. After that, conducted in vitro and in vivo studies of HPTLC validated Stevia that suggested the effectiveness of Stevia rebaudiana in inhibiting Protein Kinase C phosphorylation.

    ***

    NKR/KS/AG

    (Release ID: 2066691) Visitor Counter : 73

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Connections established between Volcanic Eruption & Ionospheric Disturbances

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 21 OCT 2024 4:05PM by PIB Delhi

    A new study has revealed a previously unexplored ionospheric connection between the massive eruption of the Tonga volcano, a submarine volcano in the South Pacific, on 15 January 2022 and the formation of Equatorial Plasma Bubbles (EPBs) or an ionospheric phenomenon near the Earth’s geomagnetic equator at night time over the Indian subcontinent.

    It highlights how volcanic eruptions can trigger ionospheric disturbances and space weather that affect satellite communication and navigation systems.

    In today’s world, satellite-based communication and navigation systems are critical for numerous sectors. Understanding how natural disasters, like volcanic eruptions, can impact the ionosphere is essential for predicting and mitigating disruptions in these systems. While previous studies have established that EPBs can disrupt satellite signals, the role of terrestrial events in shaping space weather has not been explored.

    On January 15, 2022, the Tonga volcano located 65 km (40 mi) north of Tongatapu, Tonga‘s main island in Polynesia, erupted with extraordinary force sending shock waves through the atmosphere.  Scientists were intrigued by the subsequent formation of EPBs in the evening hours over the Indian region.

    Scientists at Indian Institute of Geomagnetism (IIG) Navi Mumbai, an autonomous institute of Department of Science and Technology explored the connection between the Tonga volcanic eruption and the EPBs.

    They found that the eruption produced strong atmospheric gravity waves that propagated into the upper    atmosphere, triggering ionospheric conditions favorable to trigger EPBs. They used ionosonde observations from Tirunelveli and Prayagraj to detect spread-F traces –a phenomenon in the ionosphere where electron density become irregular causing spread in radio signals and leading to fading or disruptions in communications. Concurrently, satellite data from Swarm B and C confirmed significant electron density depletions, directly linked to the formation of EPBs.

    The scientists analyzed various atmospheric and ionospheric data to understand how disturbances triggered by the eruption led to the generation of EPBs.

    Observations from NASA’s Ionospheric Connection Explorer (ICON) (wind, ion density, and temperature) and Swarm satellites provided a comprehensive view of the ionospheric changes during the event, confirming that the eruption-induced gravity waves played a crucial role in initiating these plasma instabilities.

    Plasma blobs, as well as enhanced Pre- Reversal Enhancement (PRE) –sharp increase in the ionospheric eastward electric field in the dusk sector before it turns to westward in the late-night hours, triggered by atmospheric disturbances were also detected.

    Further analysis of iso-frequency and Total Electron Content (TEC) data from Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) measurements across the Indian region revealed gravity wave-like oscillations/Traveling Ionospheric Disturbances (TIDs) moving across Indian longitudes in the equatorial ionosphere.

    This indicated that the volcanic eruption had a widespread impact on the ionosphere and acted as seeding mechanisms for EPB generation.

    This comprehensive utilization of data from multiple sources gave the researchers a multi- dimensional view of the ionospheric disturbances.

    By combining ground-based and satellite data, the study published in “Journal of Geophysical Research: Space Physics” offers new insights into how natural disasters like volcanic eruptions can significantly influence space weather, affecting satellite communication and navigation systems.

    The Tonga Volcano identified as a cause for these ionospheric disturbances is a real-world example showing the need for monitoring space weather conditions in the aftermath of major geological events, adding to existing knowledge of ionospheric dynamics.

    The research by the team consisting of R K Barad, S Sripathi, S Banola, and K Vijaykumar, underscores the role of terrestrial events in shaping space weather, adding to existing knowledge of ionospheric dynamics.

    The connection established between geological events and ionospheric dynamics is important for satellite communication and relevant for sectors like defense, agriculture, aviation, disaster management, and any other areas that rely on Global Positioning Systems (GPS) and satellite-based technologies.

    The study can help improve forecasting of ionospheric disturbances leading to better early warning systems that involve satellite signal interference, benefiting fields like navigation, aviation, and military operations. This will allow governments and industries to better prepare for and mitigate disruptions in essential services like GPS, air traffic control, and satellite communications.

    Figure: (a) Brightness temperature (BT) perturbation at a 4.3-micron wavelength obtained from the AIRS instrument on NASA’s Aqua satellite, with the pink triangle indicating the location of the Tonga volcano. (b) Distance-time plot of Total Electron Content (TEC) perturbations observed over Colombo, Tirunelveli, Bangalore, and Hyderabad, with blue and red dots representing the first (452 m/s) and second (406 m/s) Traveling Ionospheric Disturbances (TIDs). (c) Temporal variation of the F-layer base height (h’F) over Tirunelveli and Prayagraj for January 2022, illustrating the ionospheric response following the eruption. This figure sequence captures the progression from the atmospheric disturbance caused by the Tonga eruption to its impact on the ionosphere over India.

    ***

    NKR/KS/AG

    (Release ID: 2066690) Visitor Counter : 66

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI: LMCU Introduces $10,000 HomeAssist Down Payment Assistance Program

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    GRAND RAPIDS, Mich., Oct. 21, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Lake Michigan Credit Union (LMCU) is excited to introduce their new down payment assistance program, HomeAssist, to provide economically under-resourced borrowers access to funds that can be used toward a downpayment on their first home. The program has been initially funded with $1 million for its 2024 launch.

    HomeAssist offers eligible first-time homebuyers the opportunity to receive $10,000 to use toward their down payment and closing costs, helping more people open the door to homeownership.

    To qualify for HomeAssist, applicants must meet the following criteria:

    • Must be first-time homebuyers applying through LMCU.
    • Must intend to purchase a primary residence in Michigan or Florida.
    • Household income must be at or below 120% of the local Area Median Income.
    • At least one applicant must identify as Black, African American, Hispanic, and/or Latino.

    LMCU’s HomeAssist program aims to help close the homeownership gap for minority households. This program is consistent with LMCU’s efforts to positively impact the communities served by its team and branches, while also setting up future generations for continued success.

    “As a community-focused credit union, we at LMCU believe everyone deserves a chance to be a homeowner,” said LMCU President & CEO, Julie Leonard. “That’s why HomeAssist is such a powerful resource: not only are we giving first-time homebuyers a little extra help, but when our members who are parents own their homes, their children are more likely to own houses of their own one day. We really want to be a factor in starting a chain reaction of positive impact.”

    The origins of the HomeAssist program sprung from two different sources at LMCU – LMCU’s Community Advisory Board (CAB), formed in 2019, and its Mortgage Community Lending Council, formed back in 2021. Created to help LMCU innovate and benefit more communities through big-picture projects, the CAB brings together local thought leaders who are also LMCU members. In addition to HomeAssist, the CAB’s efforts also led to LMCU hosting first-time homebuyer seminars that have assisted over 1,000 participants in their efforts to prepare for purchasing their first homes.

    The credit union’s Mortgage Community Lending Council is a cross-functional group that implements strategies to increase lending opportunities in moderate-to-low-income areas and majority minority census tracts. Other council initiatives include homeownership workshops hosted at local nonprofits, a HomePlus mortgage loan offering 0% down payment options for qualified borrowers, and utilizing tools like LoanSense and Credit Xpert to help applicants lower their student loan repayments and improve their credit scores.

    “Our loan officers have had access to the program for the last several weeks, and already 45 families have qualified for $10,000 each in assistance. This is another great tool for LMCU to help serve minority borrowers and those in moderate and low-income areas reach homeownership. Prospective Applicants should reach out to any of our loan officers, visit an LMCU branch, or connect at LMCU.org/HomeAssist to learn more,” said John Harpst, Vice President of Community Lending and the leader of the Mortgage Community Lending Council.

    About Lake Michigan Credit Union
    Lake Michigan Credit Union, established in 1933, is the largest credit union in Michigan and 14th largest in the country. Employing a staff of over 1,650 and serving more than 600,000 members, LMCU’s assets exceed $13 billion, with over $16 billion in portfolio and serviced mortgages. LMCU has 71 convenient branch locations, including 21 across the Tampa Bay area and Southwest Florida. LMCU members have access to over 55,000 Allpoint ATMs worldwide. LMCU provides a full range of financial services, from high interest-bearing checking accounts to personal loans, mortgages, business banking, investments, and insurance.

    To find out more, visit LMCU.org. Federally insured by NCUA. Equal Housing Lender. NMLS #442967.

    Media Contact:
    Christi Cowdin
    Chief Marketing Officer | Senior VP of Marketing
    (616) 242-9755
    Christi.Cowdin@LMCU.org

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Real world information for car buyers acclaimed internationally

    Source: Australian Ministers 1

    The real-world vehicle testing program funded by the Albanese Government and run by the Australian Automobile Association has won an innovation award from the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile for Empowering Cleaner Choices.

    The program is a global first and allows car buyers to save money and make more informed choices by measuring fuel consumption and emissions of vehicles in real road conditions.

    Those results are compared to the results of laboratory tests provided by manufacturers.

    The testing gives consumers information they haven’t previously had about how a car may perform. It is intended to help buyers looking for more efficient and cheaper-to-run cars.

    It also helps provide policymakers in Australia and overseas with insights to help develop more accurate laboratory tests for the future.

    The Albanese Government is providing $14 million to the Australian Automobile Association over the next four years to test the real-world fuel usage of a range of popular cars, SUVs and utes sold in Australia.

    The testing to date has found results for 70 of Australia’s most popular cars, with 52 found to be using more fuel than reported from lab testing, and the latest results released today show some new cars consume over 30% more fuel than advertised.

    The Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) is the AAA’s international parent body and has membership from 242 organisations in 147 countries and this year held the inaugural Innovation Challenge Awards.

    The winners of the four categories were selected from 44 entries.

    The FIA congratulated the Real-World Testing program for providing “users with unprecedented information, enabling them to make more informed choices, save money and better protect the planet.”

    The Albanese Government committed to funding the Real-World Testing program at the 2022 election, and it was launched in October 2023.

    Quotes attributable to the Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, Catherine King: 

    “This program helps Australians make informed decisions based on the real costs of running a vehicle.

    “Transport takes a percentage of every household budget, that’s why it is important Australians have access to tools like this to help maximise savings.

    “That’s why we are funding this program and I congratulate the AAA on its success.”

    MIL OSI News

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Goodbye Dunkirk Rd: Watercare moves out after wastewater upgrades

    Source: Auckland Council

    It’s official! Watercare has moved out from Dunkirk Rd.

    After 27 months, Watercare has completed a new wastewater pump station and a 1.4-kilometre gravity main that will greatly reduce overflows into the Tāmaki River and accommodate planned growth in the area.

    The infrastructure was delivered under a $51 million shovel ready project between Watercare and Kāinga Ora at $42.7 million.

    Watercare capital delivery general manager Suzanne Lucas says the wastewater upgrades were delivered on time and under budget.

    “This achievement is a testament to the combined efforts of our designers, infrastructure teams, and contractors who worked collaboratively to deliver critical infrastructure that meets the needs of the community without exceeding our budget.”                                                                                                                                                       

    The final remediation works on the Dunkirk wastewater pump station are now complete.

    Watercare project manager Jason Salmon says that since the pump station went into service in July, teams have been busy.

    “They have demolished the old pump station in the reserve and cleared out the laydown site where all the equipment and materials were stored.

    “This month our crews worked hard to complete the final remediation, planting and operational works at the reserve and pump station sites.

    “They also removed the traffic management, enabling access to Dunkirk Rd from Tangaroa St and Tobruk Rd.

    Salmon says the new Dunkirk Wastewater Pump Station – on the corner of Dunkirk Rd and Tangaroa St – can handle flows of up to 225 litres per second and hold up to 700,000 litres of wastewater across its four underground storage tanks.

    “The pump station’s increased pumping and storage capacity will play a significant role in reducing overflows into the Tāmaki River during wet weather.

    “The gravity main will also help to prevent most overflows into local waterways by diverting the extra flow during heavy rainfall to the new wastewater pump station.

    “In the future, stage two of the works will involve construction of a new rising main from the pump station to the Eastern Interceptor – a large transmission pipe that carries wastewater to our Māngere Wastewater Treatment Plant.”

    Salmon thanks the community for their patience and understanding while Watercare and its construction partner Fulton Hogan undertook this critical infrastructure work.

    “The completion of the Dunkirk wastewater upgrades marks the end of a significant journey to futureproof for current and future generations.

    “The benefits of these upgrades will be felt for years to come, ensuring a sustainable future for our community.”           

    MIL OSI New Zealand News

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: The on-farm benefits of good effluent management

    Source: Environment Canterbury Regional Council

    Environment Canterbury © 2024
    Retrieved: 11:07am, Tue 22 Oct 2024
    ecan.govt.nz/get-involved/news-and-events/2024/the-on-farm-benefits-of-good-effluent-management/

    MIL OSI New Zealand News

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Release: Appalling process on three strikes law

    Source: New Zealand Labour Party

    The Government is subverting parliamentary process on laws the evidence already shows don’t work.

    “The Justice Select Committee has not reported back, and yet the Government is making changes based on what it claims that committee heard and the public has said,” Labour’s justice spokesperson Duncan Webb said.  

    “We are yet to even receive a draft of the select committee report, and released submissions so far show overwhelming opposition to the bill.

    “The proper process to have input is through the select committee, not a selection of private emails to the Minister.

    “The fact Minister Nicole McKee is jumping the gun and making these changes shows she is not interested in evidence or good process.

    “They are beating the tough on crime drum to cover for wider government failures and misbehaviours.

    “The first three strikes bill was a failure and the proposed changes to this bill will only make it worse,” Duncan Webb said.


    Stay in the loop by signing up to our mailing list and following us on FacebookInstagram, and X.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News

  • MIL-OSI Video: Reporters Without Borders RSF launches the Myanmar Press Freedom Project to protect and support Burmese journalists

    Source: Reporters Without Borders (RSF) (Video Release)

    #THAILAND: “We have journalists that are taking risks that are crossing the border, that are bringing first hand account reports”.

    As an increasing number of journalists have been forced into exile due to the brutal crackdown on press freedom by the military junta in Myanmar, Reporters Without Borders (RSF) is launching the Myanmar Press Freedom Project in Chiang Mai.

    Since the coup on 1 February 2021, Myanmar’s military junta has mercilessly cracked down on the press. Seven journalists and press freedom defenders have been executed, and at least 150 have been arrested and imprisoned.

    Developed in partnership with Exile Hub, the project aims to provide Myanmar journalists — both in exile and within Myanmar — with equipment such as laptops, mobile phones, solar batteries, and digital security tools, as well as various training to strengthen their capacities.

    #Myanmar #MyanmarPressFreedom #media #rsf #freespeech #freepress #journalists #journaliste #condemningabuses #reportersindanger #libertédelapresse #journalismisntacrime #fightfortruth #humanrights #freemedia

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P03iXef0JCc

    MIL OSI Video

  • MIL-OSI Video: Veterans and Caregiver Give Cyber Safety Advice

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    Hear directly from fellow Veterans and a caregiver who face the same online safety challenges as all Veterans do every day, and how they maneuver through to keep themselves and their families safe. They tell personal stories of combatting cyber threats and keeping Veteran friends and families safe from online predators. Listen to their compelling personal stories and important advice. This short video gives top tips for the Veteran community on how to stay safe online. Together, let’s Secure Our World. For more about VA digital tools for the Veteran community, visit

    Home


    .
    #Veterans
    #cybersecurity
    #onlinesafety

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qe8tpQyH8iI

    MIL OSI Video

  • MIL-OSI Video: Saving Lives by Intercepting Human Traffickers – Body Worn Camera POV | CBP

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    On the night of May 24, 2023, at approximately 10:15 p.m., a U.S. Border Patrol (USBP) agent spotted a suspicious vehicle—a blue Chevrolet Silverado—on U.S. Highway 281 in Texas.

    Upon questioning, the driver claimed the truck was overheating, but a loud noise from the truck’s toolbox told a different story. A search revealed a loaded pistol on the driver, raising tensions.

    Further inspection uncovered three individuals dangerously crammed inside the toolbox, hidden beneath a blue tarp. One of the individuals was in critical condition, suffering from heat exhaustion and lack of air.

    Instagram ➤ https://instagram.com/CBPgov
    Facebook ➤ https://facebook.com/CBPgov
    Twitter ➤ https://twitter.com/CBP
    Official Website ➤ https://www.cbp.gov

    #cbp
    #smugglers
    #rescue
    #lawenforcement

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7zzu4hUfvnU

    MIL OSI Video

  • MIL-OSI Video: USACE Blue Roof Mission Starts in Sarasota, FL

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    If your home was damaged by Hurricane Milton, Operation Blue Roof can help with free temporary roof repairs! U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Headquarters is working to provide eligible homeowners with fiber-reinforced plastic sheeting for damaged roofs.
    Here’s how to sign up:
    Visit: blueroof.gov
    Call: 888-ROOF-BLU (888-766-3258)
    This service is available in 22 counties, including Brevard, Citrus, Hillsborough, Pinellas, Sarasota, and more. The initial sign-up period ends November 5—don’t wait! You can also visit a Right of Entry (ROE) collection center near you to sign up using a ROE form. This temporary fix can help give you peace of mind as you work toward permanent repairs.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U8N-tYVUhZk

    MIL OSI Video

  • MIL-OSI Video: The PACT ACT – Updated Airborne Hazards and Open Burn Pit Registry | The BLUF

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    In this episode of The BLUF, we take a look at the recently redesigned and updated Airborne Hazards and Open Air Burn Pit Registry associated with the PACT Act. The PACT Act is a law that expands VA health care and benefits for Veterans exposed to burn pits, Agent Orange, and other toxic substances. This law helps us provide generations of Veterans—and their survivors—with the care and benefits they’ve earned and deserve.

    For more information on this story:
    https://www.va.gov/pact

    VA redesigns and expands Burn Pit Registry


    https://www.publichealth.va.gov/exposures/burnpits/registry.asp

    File a disability claim online:
    https://www.va.gov/disability/file-disability-claim-form-21-526ez/introduction

    Apply for VA health care:
    https://www.va.gov/health-care/apply-for-health-care-form-10-10ez/introduction

    The BLUF
    A VA Rocky Mountain Network Production
    This show is made by Veterans for Veterans

    Executive Producer: Shawn Spitler
    Producer, Director, Editor: Matt Murray
    Host, Producer: Sarah Kallassy
    Technical Director: Patrick Battle
    Audiovisual Production Specialist: Adam Desaulniers
    Stories by: Katie Beall, Jesus Flores, Sarah Kallassy, and Matt Murray

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HeBeqkKOwf4

    MIL OSI Video

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: UN Peacekeeping marks 25 years of protecting civilians as record levels of conflict highlight growing need

    Source: United Nations – Peacekeeping

    Written by the UN Peacekeeping’s Protection of Civilians (POC) team in the Division of Policy, Evaluation and Training (DPET) at UN headquarters in New York. The team provides resources, expertise and support to UN peacekeeping missions, UN member states and bodies such as the Security Council, and other stakeholders working to protect civilians in conflict.

     

    Twenty-five years ago, the United Nations Security Council decided that the protection of civilians (POC) in armed conflict was an issue of international peace and security, and it tasked the UN Mission in Sierra Leone (UNAMSIL) with the first explicit mandate to protect civilians from threats of physical violence. Prior to this, peacekeeping missions helped protect populations through key activities like monitoring ceasefires, disarming combatants, and supporting peace negotiations, but were not authorized by the Security Council to intervene with force to protect populations.

    This was a groundbreaking step, establishing the protection of civilians as a core responsibility for UN peacekeeping missions operating in conflict zones. Today, this role remains critical, as conflicts have surged globally, with catastrophic effects on civilian populations, including an alarming 72 percent rise in civilian deaths in 2023 alone.

    National state authorities are responsible for protecting the population in their territory, and peacekeepers support them to do so. However, in some peacekeeping contexts where host states are unwilling or unable to fully meet this responsibility, the Security Council empowers peacekeepers to step in. In these cases, peacekeeping missions are authorized to prevent and stop threats of physical violence against civilians, including through the use of force when needed.

    In missions with a POC mandate, all peacekeepers – civilian, police and military – are responsible for protecting civilians. They coordinate with each other as well as with local authorities and UN staff outside the mission. And while peacekeepers are not resourced to protect all populations at all times, peacekeeping missions use all their available tools to prevent conflict before it starts and protect those most at risk from violence.

    Over the past 25 years, the POC mandate has become a cornerstone of UN peacekeeping operations, shaping how missions prevent and respond to violence against civilians. Sixteen peacekeeping missions have been mandated to protect civilians, including five missions deployed today in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA), the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO), Lebanon (UNIFIL), Abyei (UNISFA), and South Sudan (UNMISS).

    To commemorate this 25-year journey, UN peacekeeping is launching the Profiles in POC campaign that will, over the next few months, share a collection of personal stories and reflections showcasing POC efforts on the front lines. The series traces the evolution of the mandate from its inception in 1999 to the present day. From field operations in conflict-affected areas to strategic decision-making at the UN Security Council, the stories capture the breadth of contributions from those advancing the POC mandate. Each profile reveals a unique narrative, shedding light on the challenges, successes, and lessons learned in ongoing efforts to protect civilians from the violence of war.

    The stories honour the commitment of all those working to uphold the POC mandate and remind us of the immense dedication and resilience of peacekeepers, uniformed and civilian, and peacekeeping stakeholders.

    As we reflect on 25 years of progress, we invite you to explore these profiles and learn more about the people behind the mandate who work tirelessly to protect civilians and promote peace amidst some of the world’s most challenging conflicts.

    Visit the protection of civilians website to read the profiles as they are posted.

    MIL OSI United Nations News