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  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: List of non-working holidays and transferred days off in 2025

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Central Bank of Russia (2) –

    1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 8 January – New Year holidays;

    January 7 – Christmas;

    February 23 – Defender of the Fatherland Day;

    March 8 – International Women’s Day;

    May 1 – Spring and Labor Day;

    May 9 – Victory Day;

    June 12 – Russia Day;

    November 4 is National Unity Day.

    List of additional days off in 2025:

    May 2 – Friday;

    May 8 – Thursday;

    June 13 – Friday;

    November 3 – Monday;

    December 31st – Wednesday.

    List of additional working days in 2025:

    November 1st – Saturday.

    Information on the conduct of trades and settlements on the domestic financial market of the Russian Federation during the holidays of 2025 will be announced additionally.

    1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 8 January – New Year holidays;

    January 7 – Christmas;

    February 23 – Defender of the Fatherland Day;

    March 8 – International Women’s Day;

    May 1 – Spring and Labor Day;

    May 9 – Victory Day;

    June 12 – Russia Day;

    November 4 is National Unity Day.

    List of additional days off in 2024:

    April 29, 30 – Monday, Tuesday;

    May 10 – Friday;

    December 30, 31 – Monday, Tuesday.

    List of additional working days in 2024:

    April 27 – Saturday;

    November 2 – Saturday;

    December 28 – Saturday.

    Information on trading and settlements on the domestic financial market of the Russian Federation during the holidays of 2024 will be announced additionally.

    1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 8 January – New Year holidays;

    January 7 – Christmas;

    February 23 – Defender of the Fatherland Day;

    March 8 – International Women’s Day;

    May 1 – Spring and Labor Day;

    May 9 – Victory Day;

    June 12 – Russia Day;

    November 4 is National Unity Day.

    List of additional days off in 2023:

    February 24 – Friday;

    May 8 – Monday;

    November 6th – Monday.

    Information on trading and settlements on the domestic financial market of the Russian Federation during the holidays of 2023 will be announced additionally.

    1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 8 January – New Year holidays;

    January 7 – Christmas;

    February 23 – Defender of the Fatherland Day;

    March 8 – International Women’s Day;

    May 1 – Spring and Labor Day;

    May 2 is a day off;

    May 9 – Victory Day;

    June 12 – Russia Day;

    June 13 is a day off;

    November 4 is National Unity Day.

    List of additional days off in 2022:

    March 7 – Monday;

    May 3 – Tuesday;

    May 10 – Tuesday.

    List of additional working days in 2022:

    March 5th – Saturday.

    Information on trading and settlements on the domestic financial market of the Russian Federation during the holidays of 2022 will be announced additionally.

    1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 8 January – New Year holidays;

    January 7 – Christmas;

    February 23 – Defender of the Fatherland Day;

    March 8 – International Women’s Day;

    May 1 – Spring and Labor Day;

    May 3 is a day off;

    May 9 – Victory Day;

    May 10 is a day off;

    June 12 – Russia Day;

    June 14 is a day off;

    November 4 is National Unity Day.

    List of additional days off in 2021:

    February 22 – Monday;

    November 5 – Friday;

    December 31st – Friday.

    List of additional working days in 2021:

    February 20 – Saturday.

    Information on trading and settlements on the domestic financial market of the Russian Federation during the holidays of 2021 will be announced additionally.

    dated 12/14/2020 No. IN-01-19/172

    1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 8 January – New Year holidays;

    January 7 – Christmas;

    February 23 – Defender of the Fatherland Day;

    February 24 is a day off;

    March 8 – International Women’s Day;

    March 9 is a day off;

    May 1 – Spring and Labor Day;

    May 9 – Victory Day;

    May 11 is a day off;

    June 12 – Russia Day;

    November 4 is National Unity Day.

    List of additional days off in 2020:

    May 4 – Monday;

    May 5th – Tuesday.

    dated 12/14/2020 No. IN-01-19/172

    dated 12/19/2019 No. IN-01-19/95

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

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

    http://www.cbr.ru/other/holidays/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Joint press release on the meeting between High Representative/Vice-President Josep Borrell and the UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    The Foreign Secretary and EU High Representative reaffirm the importance of the relationship between the European Union and the United Kingdom for European security and agree to advance work towards a security partnership to address common challenges and threats.

    The United Kingdom Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, Rt Hon David Lammy MP, and the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Josep Borrell, met today ahead of attending the EU Foreign Affairs Council to exchange views with EU Foreign Affairs Ministers on shared security challenges facing Europe. 

    The Foreign Secretary and the High Representative reiterated their ironclad commitment to maintain support to Ukraine as it defends its freedom and sovereignty against Russian aggression; and their condemnation of third-country support to Russia’s military.  

    They shared their deep concern about spiralling violence in the Middle East and call for an immediate ceasefire across the Israel-Lebanon border; and in Gaza for the release of all hostages, unhindered access for humanitarian aid and renewed focus on a two-State solution. They underline their unwavering support to UNIFIL’s role. It is vital that peacekeepers and civilians are protected. They fully support UNIFIL’s work in South Lebanon, which is mandated in UN Resolution 1701.

    They condemn Iranian attacks on Israel and its supply of ballistic missiles to Russia for use against Ukraine and are committed to sanction Iran’s regime on that account.  

    In the light of a difficult geopolitical context, the High Representative and the Foreign Secretary reaffirmed the importance of the relationship between the European Union and the United Kingdom for European security and defence and agreed to advance work towards a security partnership to address common threats and challenges.

    They underlined the importance and value of regular exchanges and the need for the EU and the UK to stand together as close partners in security and defence. High Representative Borrell and UK Foreign Secretary Lammy agreed during their meeting that the UK and EU will establish a six-monthly Foreign Policy Dialogue between the UK Foreign Secretary and the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs, to enable strategic cooperation on the highest priority issues and first meeting in early 2025.  In addition, they also agreed to a number of regular UK-EU strategic consultations to sit underneath this on Russia/Ukraine, the Indo-Pacific, the Western Balkans and Hybrid threats. 

    In the face of an increasingly volatile and unstable world, the time is right for friends to stand together in partnership and work together on our shared foreign policy and security challenges.

    ENDS

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    Updates to this page

    Published 14 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-Evening Report: Albanese government has surcharges in its sights, as it pursues the votes of consumers

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra

    The Albanese government has announced a first step in what it says is a crackdown on excessive card surcharges and threatened a ban on surcharges for debit cards from early 2026.

    In the latest of its cost-of-living measures, the government will provide $2.1 million for the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission “to tackle excessive surcharges”.

    The government also says it is prepared to ban debit card surcharges from January 1 2026, subject to further work by the Reserve Bank and “safeguards to ensure both small businesses and consumers can benefit from lower costs”.

    The government is not considering a ban on credit card surcharges, although the ACCC scrutiny will cover both debit and credit cards.

    The bank is reviewing merchant card payment costs and surcharging. Its first consultation paper will be released on Tuesday.

    The government said in a statement: “the declining use of cash and the rise of electronic payments means that more Australians are getting slugged by surcharges, even when they use their own money”.

    “The RBA’s review is an important step to reduce the costs small businesses face when processing payments. We want to ease costs for consumers without added costs for small businesses, or unintended consequences for the broader economy,” the statement from the prime minister, treasurer and assistant treasurer said.

    Funding for the ACCC “will enable the consumer watchdog to crack down on illegal and unfair surcharging practices and increase education and compliance activities”.

    The Reserve Bank required card providers such as Visa and Mastercard to remove their no‐surcharge rules in 2003 allowing retailers to directly pass on the costs of accepting card payments.

    With the spread of payments by card, surcharges have become ubiquitous.

    In a parliamentary hearing in August the head of the National Australia Bank Andrew Irvine complained about having to pay a 10% surcharge when he bought a cup of coffee in Sydney.

    He told an inquiry it was “outrageous”, saying he didn’t like “the lack of transparency and lack of consistency”.

    The ACCC regulates surcharges and can require merchants prove a surcharge is justified. It can take merchants to court to enforce the regulations governing surcharges, and has done so. But many charges are still higher than they are supposed to be.

    The European Union bans surcharges.

    Treasurer Jim Chalmers said: “Consumers shouldn’t be punished for using cards or digital payments, and at the same time, small businesses shouldn’t have to pay hefty fees just to get paid themselves”.

    The total cost to Australian consumers of surcharges is disputed – the RBA review will look at the likely cost.

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

    – ref. Albanese government has surcharges in its sights, as it pursues the votes of consumers – https://theconversation.com/albanese-government-has-surcharges-in-its-sights-as-it-pursues-the-votes-of-consumers-241251

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: ArrowMark Financial Corp. Releases Month End Estimated Net Asset Value as of September 2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DENVER, Oct. 14, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — ArrowMark Financial Corp., (NASDAQ: BANX) (“ArrowMark Financial”), today announced that BANX’s estimated and unaudited Net Asset Value (“NAV”) as of September 30, 2024, was $21.73.

    This estimated NAV is not a comprehensive statement of our financial condition or results for the month ended September 30, 2024.

    About ArrowMark Financial Corp.
    ArrowMark Financial Corp. is an SEC registered non-diversified, closed-end fund listed on the NASDAQ Global Select Market under the symbol “BANX.” Its investment objective is to provide shareholders with current income. BANX pursues its objective by investing primarily in regulatory capital securities of financial institutions. BANX is managed by ArrowMark Asset Management, LLC. To learn more, visit ir.arrowmarkfinancialcorp.com, or contact Destra at 877.855.3434 or by email at BANX@destracapital.com.

    Disclaimer and Risk Factors:
    There is no assurance that ArrowMark Financial will achieve its investment objective. ArrowMark Financial is subject to numerous risks, including investment and market risks, management risk, income and interest rate risks, banking industry risks, preferred stock risk, convertible securities risk, debt securities risk, liquidity risk, valuation risk, leverage risk, non-diversification risk, credit and counterparty risks, market at a discount from net asset value risk and market disruption risk. Shares of closed-end investment companies may trade above (a premium) or below (a discount) their net asset value. Shares of ArrowMark Financial may not be appropriate for all investors. Investors should review and consider carefully ArrowMark Financial’s investment objective, risks, charges and expenses. Past performance does not guarantee future results.

    The Annual Report, Semi-Annual Report and other regulatory filings of the Company with the SEC are accessible on the SEC’s website at http://www.sec.gov and on the BANX’s website at ir.arrowmarkfinancialcorp.com.

    Contact:
    BANX@destracapital.com

    The MIL Network –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Pennington shop deliberately damaged

    Source: South Australia Police

    Detectives are investigating after damage was caused to a gift shop and then deliberately set alight.

    Just before 5am on Tuesday 15 October, a member of the public reported a shop on fire on Addison Road at Pennington.

    MFS crews attended and extinguished the flames believed to be caused by accelerant used on a mattress at the front of the business premises.

    It appears that a vehicle may have been driven into the front of the shop prior to the building being set alight, causing significant damage to the building structure.

    Crime Scene officers will be attending to examine the scene this morning.

    If anyone saw any suspicious activity in the area or has information that may assist are asked to contact Crime Stoppers.  You can anonymously provide information to Crime Stoppers online at https://crimestopperssa.com.au or free call 1800 333 000.

    MIL OSI News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Eight fast facts about toxic shellfish poisoning

    Source: Ministry for Primary Industries

    With warmer weather on the way, Kiwis all over the motu will be heading to the beach to enjoy the sea’s bounty. But before you go gathering shellfish, New Zealand Food Safety deputy director-general Vincent Arbuckle has some fast facts to share about toxic shellfish poisoning and how to keep yourself, your whanau and friends safe. 

    1. New Zealand hasn’t had a toxic shellfish poisoning outbreak for a decade

    Toxic shellfish poisoning can cause serious illness and can even be fatal. Fortunately, we haven’t had an outbreak of toxic shellfish poisoning since 2014, when 13 people fell ill.

    New Zealand Food Safety works hard to keep it that way by monitoring key recreational shellfish harvesting areas around the country for biotoxins.

    2. New Zealand Food Safety regularly tests water and shellfish for biotoxins to keep the public safe

    New Zealand Food Safety has more than 40 monitoring sites, with water tested weekly for toxic algae and shellfish tested fortnightly for biotoxins. The commercial shellfish industry also provides their own biotoxin monitoring data from more than 30 sites, giving us even greater coverage.

    If shellfish are found to contain biotoxins at unsafe levels, we issue public health warnings and post signs at affected beaches. In 2023 we issued 17 biotoxin alerts.

    3. Cooking does not destroy biotoxins

    It’s important to know that cooking will not make toxic shellfish safe to eat, because cooking doesn’t destroy biotoxins.

    If anyone becomes ill after eating shellfish from an area where a public health warning has been issued, phone healthline for advice on 0800 61 11 16, or seek medical attention immediately. We advise that you also contact your nearest public health unit and keep any leftover shellfish for testing.

    4. Shellfish become poisonous by feeding on toxic algae

    Shellfish with 2 shells (bivalve shellfish) can each filter more than 200 litres of water a day. They do this to filter out microscopic algae (called phytoplankton) and other particles as a food source. If these algae are toxic, the biotoxins can build up in the shellfish, making them poisonous. Generally, the more toxic algae there are in the water, the more toxic the shellfish get.

    5. Bivalve shellfish are the most affected by biotoxins

    Shellfish affected by biotoxins usually include bivalves like mussels, oysters, tuatua, pipi, toheroa, cockles and scallops. But pūpū (cat’s eyes) and Cook’s turban and can also have elevated levels of some biotoxins.

    Generally, you can still eat pāua, crab and crayfish, but only if you remove the gut before cooking, as biotoxins accumulate in the gut. Finfish are not affected by biotoxins from algal blooms, but we advise discarding the liver before cooking. 

    6. Not all species of phytoplankton are toxic

    Phytoplankton are photosynthetic microscopic algae, meaning that, just like plants, they use the sunshine to grow. And, like plants, they also need nutrients (which they get from the water) to grow. 

    If conditions are right, phytoplankton can multiply to high numbers and form algal blooms. Most species of phytoplankton are harmless, but some can naturally produce highly toxic chemicals we call marine biotoxins.

    7. Algal blooms occur naturally under particular conditions

    Algal blooms usually occur naturally when wind and water currents are favourable for their growth. Causes can include slow water circulation or unusually high water temperatures. Some blooms have happened after extreme weather events like cyclones, floods, or drought.

    New Zealand Food Safety does extra monitoring during a toxic algal bloom to track its spread and see how it is affecting different kinds of shellfish.

    8. There are 4 main types of toxic shellfish poisoning in New Zealand

    Paralytic shellfish poisoning (PSP) is potentially the most serious of the 4 main types of toxic shellfish poisoning found in NZ.

    PSP symptoms usually appear within 10 minutes to 3 hours of eating and may include:

    • numbness and tingling around the mouth, face, hands, and feet
    • difficulty swallowing or breathing
    • dizziness and headache
    • nausea and vomiting
    • diarrhoea
    • paralysis and respiratory failure
    • and, in severe cases, death.

    If you suspect someone has PSP poisoning after eating shellfish from an area where we have issued a public health warning, seek medical attention immediately.

    Find out more

    Check for current biotoxin warnings

    Subscribe to our alerts 

    Download our free NZ Fishing Rules App

    Read more about toxic shellfish poisoning

    For general enquiries, call MPI on 0800 00 83 33 or email info@mpi.govt.nz

    For media enquiries, contact the media team on 029 894 0328.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Serious crash closes SH1 near Calico Line, Marton

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    15 October 2024 9:53 am | NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi

    A serious crash has closed a stretch of State Highway 1, near Calico Line at Marton.

    The crash happened just after 9am.

    The road is likely to remain closed for several hours while the Serious Crash Unit is onsite.

    NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi is strongly urging road users to avoid the area and plan trips accordingly.

    Please expect delays to travel when driving on alternative roads.

    A detour is in place – please follow the directions of traffic management on site.

    Keep up to date with NZTA’s Journey Planner.

    Journey Planner(external link)

    Tags

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Bremner’s Bridge abutments rebuilt; Ballance Valley Road/Gorge Road now open

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    Ballance Valley Road/Gorge Road has reopened, 3 weeks after heavy flooding damaged Bremner’s Bridge.

    The stormy weather, heavy and persistent rainfall caused damage to the bridge and blocked culverts and drains on other parts of Ballance Valley Road/Gorge Road in Manawatū.

    The bridge structure was undamaged and remains structurally safe, however it was the approaches at either end of the bridge which suffered from washouts.

    Contractors have excavated under the approaches, built them back with aggregate and installed rock walls and geo grid matting to stablise the land under the road. 600 tonnes of rock have been used in the new rock walls.

    NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi System Manager for Manawatū-Whanganui and Taranaki, Liesl Dawson, says crews have worked really hard to get the road back open as quickly as possible.

    “The flooding caused significant damage to the approaches to the bridge, so to get the work done this quickly is testament to the hard work put in by those onsite.

    “The crews have also spent the past 3 weeks unblocking culverts and drains following the flooding, and installing 2 new sumps and additional pipework. The drainage work is crucial to making this a more resilient route for all road users.

    “Ballance Valley Road is an important connection between Pahiatua Track and the old Gorge Road. We know the closure has been frustrating for people who regularly use the road as a connection between Manawatū and Tararua. We appreciate people’s support over the past 3 weeks while this work has been carried out.

    “If you’re driving the road, please be mindful crews will still be in the area, and there’s likely to be stop/go traffic management and a temporary lower speed limit in place while work nearby, like damaged pavements,  is finished,” says Ms Dawson.

    “Please drive to the conditions.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese premier meets with Pakistani military leaders

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

    ISLAMABAD, Oct. 14 — Chinese Premier Li Qiang met with Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee of the Pakistan Army Sahir Shamshad Mirza, Chief of Army Staff Asim Munir, Chief of Naval Staff Naveed Ashraf and Chief of Air Staff Zaheer Ahmad Babar here on Monday.

    Noting that since the establishment of diplomatic ties, China and Pakistan have always respected and supported each other, Li said that the two countries are good brothers and good partners who have stood the test of the changing international landscape and truly shared weal and woe and helped each other.

    Under the strategic guidance of Chinese President Xi Jinping and Pakistani leaders, China-Pakistan relations have developed in depth and are moving steadily toward building an even closer China-Pakistan community with a shared future in the new era, Li said.

    China is willing to work with Pakistan to implement the important consensus reached by the leaders of the two countries, deepen strategic coordination, strengthen mutually beneficial cooperation and bring more benefits to the two peoples, he added.

    Li pointed out that China firmly supports Pakistan in building a united, stable, prosperous and strong Pakistan, and is willing to continue to provide support and assistance to Pakistan within its capacity and further deepen cooperation with Pakistan in various fields.

    It is hoped that the two militaries will continue to strengthen cooperation and provide solid support for China-Pakistan friendship and mutually beneficial cooperation, noted Li.

    China supports Pakistan’s efforts to combat terrorism and stands ready to deepen counterterrorism cooperation with Pakistan, pool counterterrorism efforts among regional countries and jointly safeguard peace and stability of the two countries and the region, Li said.

    The Pakistani side said that deepening the ironclad Pakistan-China friendship is a strong consensus across all sectors of the Pakistani society.

    Pakistan and China have always firmly supported and coordinated with each other on issues concerning their respective core interests, with solid political mutual trust, they said.

    The Pakistani military is committed to contributing to the cause of friendly cooperation between the two countries and will take all necessary measures to ensure the safety of Chinese personnel, institutions, and projects in Pakistan, they said.

    Pakistan is also willing to strengthen defense and security cooperation with China within bilateral and multilateral frameworks, safeguard the common interests of both countries and promote regional peace, stability and development, they added.

    MIL OSI China News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Prime Minister Justin Trudeau speaks with Prime Minister of the United Kingdom Sir Keir Starmer

    Source: Government of Canada – Prime Minister

    Today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Sir Keir Starmer, discussed recent developments related to a targeted campaign against Canadian citizens by agents linked to the Government of India.

    The leaders discussed the need to ensure the safety and security of their citizens and the importance of upholding and respecting the rule of law. Prime Minister Trudeau underscored Canada’s continued interest in co-operation with India to address this serious matter.

    Prime Minister Trudeau and Prime Minister Starmer agreed to remain in close and regular contact.

    Associated Links

    MIL OSI Canada News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Mikhail Mishustin will visit the Islamic Republic of Pakistan on October 15–16

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Chairman of the Government of the Russian Federation Mikhail Mishustin will visit the Islamic Republic of Pakistan (Islamabad) and take part in a meeting of the Council of Heads of Government of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization member states.

    The heads of government will consider priority tasks for deepening trade, economic, cultural and humanitarian cooperation of the SCO.

    Following the meeting, it is planned to adopt a Joint Communique.

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

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

    http://government.ru/annuncements/52991/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Serious crash blocks one lane of SH2 at Putorino; expect delays, take care

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    15 October 2024 8:51 am | NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi

    NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi is advising road users to expect delays following a serious crash on State Highway 2 at Putorino, south of Wairoa.

    A container truck has rolled near the intersection with Waikare Road this morning after 8am, and has blocked one lane.

    Emergency services are en route to the scene.

    At this stage, one lane is open and traffic management is on site. Please expect delays, take care and drive to the conditions.

    Please also expect a short-notice closure of the road if needed this morning.

    Tags

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Five people rescued in three separate incidents on Mt Taranaki

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Police are reminding anyone planning an adventure outdoors to plan for the worst, after a busy weekend rescuing five people on Mount Taranaki.

    The first call for help came about 4am on Saturday, when Police were notified of three people stuck on the mountain at an altitude of 2300 metres.

    “Time was of the essence to reach them as the temperature was in the negatives with wind gusts of 40-50kmh,” Sergeant Wade Callander said.

    Taranaki Rescue Helicopter assisted the Taranaki Alpine Cliff Rescue team in reaching the trio.

    One person had hypothermia and all three were assisted in walking to a nearby lodge, where Taranaki Search and Rescue was waiting to transport the party down the mountain to get medical attention.

    About 12pm, while that rescue was unfolding, Police were alerted to a personal locator beacon activation near the summit of the mountain.

    “We established one person had taken a 250-metre-long fall, resulting in a leg injury.”

    With teams from Taranaki Search and Rescue and Taranaki Alpine Cliff Rescue still involved in the first incident, teams from Whanganui/National Park Search and Rescue and the Ruapehu Alpine Cliff Rescue were called to assist with the second.

    The Ruapehu Alpine Cliff Rescue team was able to extract the person, who was flown by helicopter to a nearby lodge.

    The Taranaki Rescue Helicopter then transported the person to hospital for treatment for their leg injury.

    “As the Taranaki Alpine Cliff Rescue team were coming down the mountain from the second incident, they came across another member of the public in distress. They were underprepared for their intended route, and the team helped them walk down the mountain,” Sergeant Callander said.

    “Although we are pleased to have pleased to have provided a fast and swift response to help these five people get back home and safe, these incidents are a reminder to the public that the mountain is a dangerous place.”

    Climbing on Mount Taranaki requires experience, knowledge, and properly fitted and correct equipment.

    “Even the most experienced people can get caught up in situations where they need assistance.”

    Any day trip has the potential to turn into an overnight situation and those wanting to go on an alpine climb need to consider if they have the right equipment to keep them safe if something happens, Sergeant Callander says.

    To ensure your safety, make sure to consider the following precautions:

    • Choose the right trip for you – Learn about the route and make sure you have the skills for it.
    • Understand the weather – It can change fast. Check the forecast and change your plans if needed.
    • Pack warm clothes and extra food – Prepare for bad weather and an unexpected night out.
    • Share your plans and take ways to get help – Telling a trusted person your trip details and taking a distress beacon can save your life.
    • Take care of yourself and each other – Eat, drink and rest, stick with your group and make decisions together.

    Distress beacons can be hired for as little as $10 from many Department of Conservation Visitor Centres and outdoor tramping and hunting stores.

    If you have purchased a beacon, make sure you register it at beacons.org.nz.

    For more information on outdoor safety, helpful free resources and videos, head to Know Before You Go – AdventureSmart – NZ Search & Rescue Council | AdventureSmart

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: PPTA’s Long Term Vision for the secondary teaching profession

    Source: Post Primary Teachers Association (PPTA)

    The PPTA’s vision for the secondary teaching profession is: 

    • Secondary teaching is a well-paid profession 
    • We are a highly trained profession 
    • Teachers and school leaders are well supported in their role   
    • We are a culturally responsive and sustaining profession 
    • Schools are properly resourced for pastoral care, curriculum and assessment 
    • There is a sufficient and sustainable secondary teacher supply 
    • There is a healthy work-life balance 

    These industrial goals advance our vision for the profession:  

    Vision Area  Industrial goals  
    A well-paid profession 
    1. Base scale rates recruit and retain well qualified subject specialists.  
    2. Management and leadership payments reflect the value of the work.  
    3. Reliever rates reflect the importance of relieving teachers.  
    A highly trained profession 
    1. There is properly funded and relevant PLD for all teachers throughout their career.  
    2. There are incentives or rewards to upskill and use new skills in the classroom. 
    3. There is appropriate PLD for those aspiring to mentoring and leadership roles. 
    Teachers and school leaders are well supported in their role   
    1. The employer provides the resourcing for teachers to do their job well.  
    2. Schools are staffed so that teachers can focus on teaching and learning. 
    Culturally responsive and sustaining profession 
    1. There is a culturally responsive and sustaining secondary teaching workforce.  
    2. The profession operates safely within Te Tiriti 
    3. There is recognition of kaiako matatau ki te reo Māori me ōna tikanga (skill in Te Reo and culture).   
    4. There is available, regular and time-resourced upskilling in culturally responsive and sustaining practices. 
    5. Schools are resourced for whānau and wider community engagement. 
    Properly resourced for  pastoral care,  curriculum and assessment 
    1. Pastoral care and guidance time are staffed at needs level.  
    2. Curriculum leaders have sufficient time to effectively perform their curriculum leadership role. 
    3. That nationally-directed assessment and curriculum changes are planned, reasonably phased and adequately resourced. 
    A sufficient and sustainable secondary teacher supply 
    1. There are sufficient, high quality ITE graduates to supply the sector. 
    2. There are supports and conditions for teachers and leaders through the career pathway to encourage retention through to retirement. 
    3. There is a deep pool of qualified day relievers available to all regions. 
    4. The particular recruitment needs of Kura Kaupapa Māori are addressed. 
    A healthy work-life balance 
    1. There are appropriate controls and expectations around workload.  
    2. Teachers and leaders are supported in looking after their health and family responsibilities. 

    These industrial targets for collective agreement changes by 2032 support our goals and vision: 

    Vision Area  Collective agreement targets for 2032  
    A well-paid profession 
    1. Maintain a relativity to the median wage which ensures appropriate recruitment and retention. 
    2. Supervising day relievers are paid at step 8. 
    3. Preparing and delivering day relievers are paid at their actual rate. 
    4. Appropriate relativities are established for units and role-related allowances and maintained. 
    5. An improved system of leadership responsibility recognition.  
    A highly trained profession 
    1. Each teacher has an annual dedicated PLD funding allowance.  
    2. The Service and Qualification is stepped at one MMA value and at unit value. 
    3. There is a PPTA administered PLD fund as part of the collective agreement. 
    4. Unit holders receive the costs of upgrading qualification to Q4 or Q5.  
    5. There are sufficient study awards, study support grants and sabbaticals to ensure that each teacher over the course of their career could access one of each.  
    6. There are mentor-teacher roles established in schools with associated time allowances. 
    7. There is an additional allowance for teachers who hold a recognised adult mentoring qualification. 
    8. Associate teacher payments are at the hourly living wage rate. 
    Teachers and school leaders are well supported in their role   
    1. Teaching Council fees are centrally funded. 
    2. The mileage payment rate matches the IRD rate. 
    3. All equipment and material is provided by the employer to enable the teacher to deliver a course or programme.  
    4. Each teacher has an entitlement to ancillary support for administrative tasks associated with their teaching. 
    Culturally responsive and sustaining profession 
    1. Community liaison roles are fully established, with two hours per week allowance time and remunerated at unit equivalent. 
    2. A cultural leadership role is established and resourced with 0.2 FTTE time allowance and salary of three-unit equivalent. 
    3. There is a payment for recognising high levels of te reo and for gaining and improving qualifications in te reo Māori me ōna tikanga. 
    Properly resourced for  pastoral care,  curriculum and assessment 
    1. There are 3,300 pastoral care allowances in secondary schools and a proportionate number in area schools. 
    2. There is a base of two non-contact hours for leadership in addition to time for each permanent unit. 
    3. There is an 18-hour maximum contact load for a full time, fully certificated classroom teacher. 
    4. Class size shall be an average maximum of 25 and the teacher is compensated if this cannot be achieved.  
    5. Each teacher with responsibility for a curriculum or pastoral area has a minimum guaranteed one-hour non-contact time if they do not have a permanent unit. 
    6. Teachers without a unit who have an MMA have ten hours guaranteed allocation of release time to be used over the course of the year. 
    7. The e-teacher and e-dean roles are resourced and referenced in the STCA. 
    A sufficient and sustainable secondary teacher supply 
    1. EBITE trainees are specifically covered by the STCA for their employment component. 
    2. Supervising day relievers are paid at step 8. 
    3. Preparing and delivering day relievers are paid at their actual rate. 
    4. The options for end of career work have been increased. 
    A healthy work-life balance 
    1. Leave to attend the birth of their child is up to five days. 
    2. Provisions for role-related health checks. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Westies – do your part to protect wildlife this summer

    Source: Auckland Council

    Westies – we need your help to protect the amazing kuaka, or godwits, that have begun their yearly trip to our shores for summer. 

    With another Tāmaki Makaurau stunner on the way, keep your dogs on a lead and away from prohibited areas to protect birds in our parks and on our walking tracks, including at the local Harbourview-Orangihina Park. 

    This spring and summer, the animal management west team patrols will include Harbourview-Orangihina Park.

    The patrol protects wildlife that resides in our coastal areas over summer by checking and reminding locals of dog walking regulations.  

    Off-leash dogs are the most immediate threat to kuaka and other threatened and endangered birds and other wildlife on the coast.

    Checking and following the dog walking rules in your local area is an easy way to do your part in protecting kuaka and other birds.  

    In Harbourview-Orangihina Park, kuaka actively feed and rest in the vast tidal mudflat areas that surround the park.  

    Henderson-Massey Local Board Chair says that it is vital for locals to respect dog walking rules this summer.  

    “Dog walking bylaws exist in our parks for good reason – we have a duty to do what we can to protect all of our local species that rely on harbour ecosystems, including migrating birds like kuaka,” he says.  

    “In Harbourview-Orangihina Park, dogs are prohibited in the beach and foreshore areas.  

    “In other park areas dogs must be walked on leashes. The grass area between the carpark and Te Atatū Road is the only area where dogs are permitted off-leash.” 

    Kuaka are amazing birds that take a massive journey across the world.  

    Starting from their breeding grounds in the Northern Hemisphere, from as far north as Alaska, they take an epic non-stop flight across the enormous distance south to visit our shores over summer and avoid the harsh winter they’ve left behind.

    Over our summer, they find temporary homes across Aotearoa in tidal flats, including in Te Atatū Peninsula, where they feed and bulk up to get ready for their onward journey.  

    In late summer, they head back north to Alaska, with a refuel stop in China’s Yellow Sea, continuing their migrations across the world.  

    Let’s show these little travellers our hospitality and help them to stay safe as they prepare for their onward journey, ready to return next summer. 

    Stay up to date

    Sign up for the Henderson-Massey Local Board e-news to get the latest news and events direct to your inbox each month, and follow them on Facebook.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Residents in Western North Carolina Can Apply for Help Buying Food Following Hurricane Helene

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: Residents in Western North Carolina Can Apply for Help Buying Food Following Hurricane Helene

    Residents in Western North Carolina Can Apply for Help Buying Food Following Hurricane Helene
    hejones1
    Mon, 10/14/2024 – 16:08

    Residents in 25 western counties and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians impacted by Hurricane Helene can apply for help buying food through the Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP) which will begin on Oct. 18, 2024, the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services announced today. D-SNAP is open to individuals and households not currently receiving Food and Nutrition Services benefits who were impacted by Hurricane Helene. NCDHHS estimates more than 150,000 people will apply for up to $120 million in D-SNAP benefits. 

    “We are making up to $120 million available to more than 150,000 individuals to buy food for their families — an essential step on the road to recovery from the devastation of Hurricane Helene,” said N.C. Health and Human Services Secretary Kody H. Kinsley. “We are committed to using every tool to support the recovery of our friends, families, and fellow North Carolinians in western NC — now and for the long haul.”

    NCDHHS received federal approval to begin phase one of the program from the U.S. Department of Agriculture beginning on Oct. 18, 2024. People can start applying for assistance three days before the program starts during online pre-registration beginning Oct. 15 and will have seven days from the start of the program to apply. The application period will close on Oct. 24, 2024.

    Eligible households will be notified within three days of completing the application and receive a one-time benefit on a special debit card (called an Electronic Benefits Transfer, or EBT card) to help buy food. The exact amount will depend on household size, income and disaster losses. While there are income eligibility standards, a number of considerations are taken into account. Individuals above these limits may still be eligible dependent on disaster expenses, so we encourage everyone who needs support to purchase food to begin their application by calling the DSNAP Virtual Call Center at 1-844-453-1117.

    The benefits are good for up to nine months. Benefit cards will be available for pick up at the D-SNAP locations in each county or you can get the EBT card mailed to you overnight at the address you specify on your application.

    To be eligible, a person must: 

    • Live in Alexander, Alleghany, Ashe, Avery, Buncombe, Burke, Caldwell, Catawba, Clay, Cleveland, Gaston, Haywood, Henderson, Jackson, Lincoln, Macon, Madison, McDowell, Mitchell, Polk, Rutherford, Transylvania, Watauga, Wilkes and Yancey Counties.
    • Be a member of the Eastern Band of the Cherokee Indians living in zip code 28719
    • Have suffered losses/damages related to Hurricane Helene, such as damage to property or loss of income.
    • Have proof of identity and proof of residency (if available).
    • Have income and resources below certain levels.
    • Not currently be receiving benefits through the Food and Nutrition Services (FNS) program. People receiving FNS can also get extra help buying food, but do not need to fill out a D-SNAP application. They can get more information about how to get the extra help on the FNS webpage. 

    Residents are encouraged to apply for D-SNAP by phone, when possible, by calling the D-SNAP call center at 1-844-453-1117. The D-SNAP call center will be open at the following hours: 

    • Weekdays (Friday, Oct. 18; Monday, Oct. 21; Tuesday, Oct. 22; Wednesday, Oct. 23; and Thursday, Oct. 24) from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
    • Saturday, Oct. 19, and Sunday, Oct. 20 from 9 a.m. to noon.

    Residents are encouraged to apply for D-SNAP by phone on their assigned day by last name but will not be turned away if they apply any time during the application period.

    • Oct. 18 – A-G
    • Oct. 19 – H-M
    • Oct. 20 – N-S
    • Oct. 21 – T-Z
    • Oct. 22 – Open to all
    • Oct. 23 – Open to all
    • Oct. 24 – Open to all

    Residents can also use the online ePASS Pre-Registration Tool, which will open on Tuesday, Oct. 15 and close on Thursday, Oct. 24. Once the pre-registration is completed, applicants will be issued a confirmation number and will need to call 1-844-453-1117 between Oct. 18 and Oct. 24 to complete the interview part of the application. 

    Residents can also apply for D-SNAP in-person at any of the following locations listed below. The D-SNAP sites listed below will be open at the following hours: 

    • Weekdays (Friday, Oct. 18; Monday, Oct. 21; Tuesday, Oct. 22; Wednesday, Oct. 23; and Thursday, Oct. 24) from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
    • Saturday, Oct. 19, and Sunday, Oct. 20 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

    Alexander County Department of Social Services
    Alexander County DSS Office
    604 7th St. SW 
    Taylorsville, NC 28681

    Alleghany County
    Emerson Black Building
    1375 US Hwy 21 N
    Sparta, NC 28675

    Ashe County Department of Social Services
    Main Ashe DSS Office 
    150 Government Circle, Suite 1400
    Jefferson, NC  28640

    Avery County
    Avery County Library (Basement)
    150 Library Road 
    Newland, NC 28657

    Buncombe County Department of Social Services
    Main Buncombe County DSS Office
    40 Coxe Ave. 
    Asheville, NC, 28801

    Burke County Department of Social Services 
    Burke County DSS Office
    700 E Parker Road 
    Morganton, NC 28655

    Caldwell County  
    Former Walgreens Building
    621 Harper Ave.
    Lenoir, NC 28645

    Catawba County Department of Social Services 
    Catawba County DSS Office
    3030 11th Ave Drive 
    Hickory, NC 28602

    Clay County Department of Social Services 
    Clay County DSS Office
    119 Courthouse Drive 
    Hayesville, NC 28904

    Cleveland County
    Cleveland County Schools Bus Garage
    300 Kemper Road
    Shelby, NC 28152

    Gaston County Department of Social Services 
    Main Gaston County DSS Office
    330 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Way
    Gastonia, NC 28052

    Haywood County
    Haywood County DSS Office
    157 Paragon Pkwy #300
    Clyde, NC 28721

    Henderson County
    Living Waters Baptist Church
    1284 Sugarloaf Road 
    Hendersonville, NC 28792

    Jackson County
    Jackson County DSS Office
    15 Griffin St. 
    Sylva, NC 28779

    Lincoln County Department of Social Services 
    Lincoln County DSS Office
    1136 East Main St.
    Lincolnton, NC 28092

    Macon County Department of Social Services 
    183 Holly Springs Plaza
    Franklin, NC 28734

    Madison County Department of Social Services 
    Madison DSS Office
    5707 US Hwy 25-70, Suite 1
    Marshall, NC 28753

    McDowell County
    McDowell County YMCA Gym: Bottom Level
    348 Grace Corpening Drive
    Marion, North Carolina 28752

    Mitchell County Department of Social Services 
    Mitchel County DSS Office
    347 Longview Drive
    Bakersville, NC 28705

    Polk County Department of Social Services 
    231 Wolverine Trail
    Mill Spring, NC 28756

    Rutherford County Department of Social Services 
    Isothermal Community College (ICC) Foundation Performing Arts Center 
    286 ICC Loop Road 
    Spindale, NC 288160

    Transylvania County Library
    212 South Gaston St., “Rogow Room” 
    Brevard, NC 28712

    Watauga County Department of Social Services 
    Watauga County DSS Office 
    132 Poplar Grove Connector, Suite C
    Boone, NC 28607

    Wilkes County Department of Social Services 
    Wilkes County DSS Office
    304 College St.
    Wilkesboro, NC 28697

    Yancey County  
    Burnsville Town Center
    6 South Main St.
    Burnsville, NC 28714

    Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians Residing in 28719:

    Qualla Boundary
    Qualla Boundary
    1526 Acquoni Road
    Cherokee, NC

    Jackson
    Jackson County DSS Office
    15 Griffin St.  
    Sylva, NC 28779 

    While people in Alexander, Alleghany, Ashe, Avery, Buncombe, Burke, Caldwell, Catawba, Clay, Cleveland, Gaston, Haywood, Henderson, Jackson, Lincoln, Macon, Madison, McDowell, Mitchell, Polk, Rutherford, Transylvania, Watauga, Wilkes and Yancey Counties and members of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians living in 28719 are encouraged to apply in their county of residence, they can also apply in person at any of the counties approved to implement D-SNAP. NCDHHS will post information on locations and hours of the sites in each county at www.ncdhhs.gov/dsnap. 

    Please know there may be long wait times. County officials will do everything they can to process applications as quickly as possible.

    People who may have a disability or are physically unable to go in-person appling for help can complete this form in English or Spanish and send an authorized representative in their place.

    NCDHHS is working with USDA on adding two additional counties through phase two of the D-SNAP implementation at a later date. Once approved, NCDHHS will share additional information.

    For information regarding Hurricane Helene and additional resources and flexibilities in place, please go to www.ncdps.gov/Helene and www.ncdhhs.gov/helene.

    ###

    In accordance with federal civil rights law and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) civil rights regulations and policies, this institution is prohibited from discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex (including gender identity and sexual orientation), religious creed, disability, age, political beliefs, or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity.

    Program information may be made available in languages other than English.  Persons with disabilities who require alternative means of communication to obtain program information (e.g., Braille, large print, audiotape, American Sign Language), should contact the agency (state or local) where they applied for benefits. Individuals who are deaf, hard of hearing or have speech disabilities may contact USDA through the Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-8339.

    To file a program discrimination complaint, a Complainant should complete a Form AD-3027, USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form which can be obtained online at: https://www.usda.gov/sites/default/files/documents/ad-3027.pdf, from any USDA office, by calling (866) 632-9992, or by writing a letter addressed to USDA. The letter must contain the complainant’s name, address, telephone number, and a written description of the alleged discriminatory action in sufficient detail to inform the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights (ASCR) about the nature and date of an alleged civil rights violation. The completed AD-3027 form or letter must be submitted to:

    1. mail: 
      Food and Nutrition Service, USDA
      1320 Braddock Place, Room 334
      Alexandria, VA 22314; or
    2. fax:
      (833) 256-1665 or (202) 690-7442; or
    3. email:
      FNSCIVILRIGHTSCOMPLAINTS@usda.gov

    This institution is an equal opportunity provider.

    Los habitantes de 25 condados del oeste y la Banda Oriental de Indios Cherokee afectados por el huracán Helene pueden solicitar ayuda para comprar alimentos a través del Programa de Asistencia Nutricional Suplementaria para Desastres (D-SNAP, por sus siglas en inglés) que comenzará el 18 de octubre de 2024, anunció hoy el Departamento de Salud y Servicios Humanos de Carolina del Norte (NCDHHS, por sus siglas en inglés). D-SNAP está abierto a personas y hogares que actualmente no reciben beneficios de Servicios de Alimentación y Nutrición y que se vieron afectados por el huracán Helene. El NCDHHS estima que más de 150,000 personas solicitarán hasta $120 millones de dólares en beneficios de D-SNAP.

    “Haremos $120 millones de dólares disponibles a más de 150,000 individuos para comprar comida para sus familias — un paso esencial en el camino a la recuperación de la devastación del huracán Helene”, dijo el secretario de Salud y Servicios Humanos de Carolina del Norte, Kody H. Kinsley. “Estamos comprometidos a apoyar la salud y el bienestar de las personas afectadas en todos los rincones del oeste de Carolina del Norte, ahora y a largo plazo”.

    El NCDHHS recibió la aprobación federal para comenzar la fase uno del programa del Departamento de Agricultura de los Estados Unidos a partir del 18 de octubre de 2024. Las personas pueden comenzar a solicitar asistencia tres días antes del inicio del programa durante la preinscripción en línea a partir del 15 de octubre y tendrán siete días desde el inicio del programa para aplicar. El plazo de la aplicación se cerrará el 24 de octubre de 2024.

    Los hogares elegibles serán notificados dentro de los tres días posteriores a completar la solicitud y recibirán un beneficio único en una tarjeta de débito especial (llamada transferencia electrónica de beneficios, o tarjeta EBT, por sus siglas en inglés) para ayudar a comprar alimentos. La cantidad exacta dependerá del tamaño del hogar, los ingresos y las pérdidas por desastres. Aunque existen requisitos de ingresos, se tomarán en cuenta varias consideraciones. Los individuos con límites de ingreso superiores podrían calificar dependiendo de sus gastos debido al desastre, así que animamos a todos los que necesiten ayuda para comprar alimentos a comenzar la aplicación por medio de llamar al centro de llamadas virtuales de D-SNAP al 1-844-453-1117.

    Los beneficios son válidos hasta por nueve meses. Las tarjetas de beneficios estarán disponibles para recogerse en las ubicaciones de D-SNAP en cada condado o puede recibir la tarjeta EBT por correo durante la noche en la dirección que especifique en su aplicación.

    Para ser elegible, una persona debe: 

    • Vivir en los condados de Alexander, Alleghany, Ashe, Avery, Buncombe, Burke, Caldwell, Catawba, Clay, Cleveland, Gaston, Haywood, Henderson, Jackson, Lincoln, Macon, Madison, McDowell, Mitchell, Polk, Rutherford, Transilvania, Watauga, Wilkes y Yancey.
    • Ser miembro de la Banda del Este de los indios Cherokee que viven en el código postal 28719.
    • Haber sufrido pérdidas o daños relacionados con el huracán Helene, como daños a la propiedad o pérdida de ingresos.
    • Tener prueba de identidad y prueba de domicilio (si está disponible).
    • Tener ingresos y recursos por debajo de ciertos niveles.
    • Actualmente no está recibiendo beneficios a través del programa de Servicios de Alimentos y Nutrición (FNS, por sus siglas en inglés). Las personas que reciben FNS también pueden obtener ayuda adicional para comprar alimentos, pero no necesitan completar una aplicación para D-SNAP. Puede obtener más información sobre cómo obtener ayuda adicional en la página web de FNS. 

    Se alienta a los habitantes a solicitar D-SNAP por teléfono, cuando sea posible, llamando al centro de llamadas de D-SNAP al 1-844-453-1117. El centro de llamadas de D-SNAP estará abierto las siguientes horas: 

    • Días laborables (viernes 18 de octubre , lunes 21 de octubre, martes 22 de octubre , miércoles 23 de octubre y jueves 24 de octubre ), a partir de las 8 de la mañana hasta las 4 de la tarde.
    • Sábado 19 de octubre y domingo 20 de octubre, a partir de las 9 de la mañana hasta el mediodía.

    Se alienta a los habitantes a solicitar D-SNAP por teléfono en su día asignado según la primera letra de su apellido, pero no serán rechazados si solicitan en cualquier momento durante el período de solicitud.

    • Octubre 18: A-G
    • Octubre 19: H-M     
    • Octubre 20: N-S
    • Octubre 21: T-Z
    • Octubre 22: Abierto para todos
    • Octubre 23: Abierto para todos
    • Octubre 24: Abierto para todos 

    Los habitantes también pueden utilizar la herramienta de preinscripción en línea ePASS, que se abrirá el martes 15 de octubre cerrará el martes 22 de octubre . Una vez que se complete la preinscripción, a los aplicantes se les emitirá un número de confirmación y deberán llamar entre el 18 y el 24 de octubre al 1-844-453-1117 para completar la entrevista que es parte de la solicitud.

    Los habitantes también pueden aplicar para D-SNAP en persona en cualquiera de los siguientes lugares que se enumeran a continuación. Los sitios D-SNAP que se enumeran a continuación estarán abiertos a las siguientes horas: 

    • Días laborables (viernes 18 de octubre , lunes 21 de octubre, , martes 22 de octubre , miércoles 23 de octubre y jueves 24 de octubre ), a partir de las 8 de la mañana hasta las 4 de la tarde.
    • Sábado 19 de octubre y domingo 20 de octubre, a partir de las 9 de la mañana a las 2 p.m.

    Departamento de Servicios Sociales del condado Alexander
    Oficina del DSS del condado Alexander
    604 7th St. SW 
    Taylorsville, NC 28681

    Condado Alleghany
    Edificio Emerson Black
    1375 US Hwy 21 N
    Sparta, NC 28675

    Departamento de Servicios Sociales del condado Ashe
    Oficina principal del DSS de Ashe 
    150 Government Circle, Suite 1400
    Jefferson, NC  28640

    Condado Avery
    Biblioteca del condado Avery (sótano)
    150 Library Road 
    Newland, NC 28657

    Departamento de Servicios Sociales del condado Buncombe
    Oficina principal del DSS del condado Buncombe
    40 Coxe Ave. 
    Asheville, NC 28801

    Departamento de Servicios Sociales del condado Burke 
    Oficina del DSS del condado Burke
    700 E Parker Road 
    Morganton, NC 28655

    Condado Caldwell
    El edificio que anteriormente era un Walgreens
    621 Harper Ave.
    Lenoir, NC 28645

    Departamento de Servicios Sociales del condado Catawba 
    Oficina del DSS del condado Catawba
    3030 11th Ave Drive 
    Hickory, NC 28602

    Departamento de Servicios Sociales del condado Clay 
    Oficina del DSS del condado Clay
    119 Courthouse Drive 
    Hayesville, NC 28904

    Condado Cleveland
    Estacionamiento de autobuses de las escuelas del condado Cleveland
    300 Kemper Road
    Shelby, NC 28152

    Departamento de Servicios Sociales del condado Gaston 
    Oficina principal del DSS del condado Gaston
    330 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Way
    Gastonia, NC 28052

    Condado Haywood
    Oficina del DSS del condado Haywood
    157 Paragon Pkwy #300
    Clyde, NC 28721

    Condado Henderson
    Iglesia Bautista Living Waters
    1284 Sugarloaf Road 
    Hendersonville, NC 28792

    Condado Jackson
    Oficina del DSS del condado Jackson
    15 Griffin St. 
    Sylva, NC 28779

    Departamento de Servicios Sociales del condado Lincoln 
    Oficina del DSS del condado Lincoln
    1136 East Main St.
    Lincolnton, NC 28092

    Departamento de Servicios Sociales del condado Macon 
    183 Holly Springs Plaza
    Franklin, NC 28734

    Departamento de Servicios Sociales del condado Madison 
    Oficina del DSS de Madison
    5707 US Hwy 25-70, Suite 1
    Marshall, NC 28753

    Condado McDowell 
    Gimnasio de la YMCA del condado McDowell (Planta baja)
    348 Grace Corpening Drive
    Marion, North Carolina 28752

    Departamento de Servicios Sociales del condado Mitchell 
    Oficina del DSS del condado Mitchel
    347 Longview Drive
    Bakersville, NC 28705

    Departamento de Servicios Sociales del condado Polk 
    231 Wolverine Trail
    Mill Spring, NC 28756

    Departamento de Servicios Sociales del condado Rutherford 
    Centro de Artes Escénicas de la Fundación del Colegio Comunitario Isothermal 
    (ICC – Foundation Performing Arts Center) 
    286 ICC Loop Road 
    Spindale, NC 288160

    Biblioteca del condado Transilvania
    212 South Gaston St., “Cuarto Rogow” 
    Brevard, NC 28712

    Departamento de Servicios Sociales del condado Watauga 
    Oficina del DSS del Condado Watauga 
    132 Poplar Grove Connector, Suite C
    Boone, NC 28607

    Departamento de Servicios Sociales del condado Wilkes 
    Oficina del DSS del condado Wilkes
    304 College St.
    Wilkesboro, NC 28697

    Departamento de Servicios Sociales del condado Yancey 
    Centro de Burnsville (Burnsville Town Center)
    6 South Main Street
    Burnsville, NC 28714

    Banda Oriental de Indios Cherokee habitantes del código postal 28719:

    Límite de Qualla
    Límite de Qualla
    1526 Acquoni Road
    Cherokee, NC

    Condado Jackson
    Oficina del DSS del condado Jackson
    15 Griffin St. 
    Sylva, NC 28779

    Si bien se alienta a las personas en los condados de Alexander, Alleghany, Ashe, Avery, Buncombe, Burke, Caldwell, Catawba, Clay, Cleveland, Gaston, Haywood, Henderson, Jackson, Lincoln, Macon, Madison, McDowell, Mitchell, Polk, Rutherford, Transilvania, Watauga, Wilkes y Yancey y a los miembros de la Banda Oriental de Indios Cherokee que viven en el código postal 28719 a aplicar en el condado de su domicilio, también pueden aplicar en persona en cualquiera de los condados aprobados para implementar D-SNAP. El NCDHHS publicará información sobre las ubicaciones y horarios de los sitios en cada condado en http://www.ncdhhs.gov/fns.

    Tenga en cuenta que puede haber largos tiempos de espera. Los funcionarios del condado harán todo lo posible para procesar las solicitudes lo más rápido posible.

    Las personas que puedan tener una discapacidad o no puedan ir físicamente a solicitar ayuda en persona pueden completar este formulario en inglés o español y enviar un representante autorizado en su lugar.

    El NCDHHS está trabajando con el Departamento de Agricultura de los Estados Unidos (USDA, por sus siglas en inglés) para agregar dos condados adicionales a través de la fase dos de la implementación de D-SNAP en una fecha posterior. Una vez aprobado, NCDHHS compartirá información adicional.

    Para obtener información sobre el huracán Helene y los recursos y flexibilidades adicionales existentes, visite http://www.ncdps.gov/Helene y http://www.ncdhhs.gov/helene. 

    ###

    De acuerdo con la ley federal de derechos civiles y las regulaciones y políticas de derechos civiles del Departamento de Agricultura de los Estados Unidos (USDA, por sus siglas en inglés), esta institución tiene prohibido discriminar por motivos de raza, color, origen nacional, sexo (incluyendo la identidad de género y la orientación sexual), credo religioso, discapacidad, edad, creencias políticas o represalias o repercusiones por actividades anteriores en defensa de los derechos civiles.

    La información del programa puede estar disponible en otros idiomas además del inglés.  Las personas con discapacidades que necesiten medios alternativos de comunicación para obtener información sobre el programa (braille, letra grande, cinta de audio, lenguaje de señas estadounidense, etc.) deben contactar a la agencia estatal o local en la que solicitaron los beneficios. Las personas sordas o con problemas de audición o discapacidades del habla pueden comunicarse con el USDA a través del Servicio de Retransmisión/Relé Federal al (800) 877-8339.

    Para presentar una queja por discriminación, el demandante debe completar un Formulario AD-3027, Formulario de queja de discriminación de programa del USDA, que se puede obtener en línea en: https://www.usda.gov/sites/default/files/documents/ad-3027.pdf, desde cualquier oficina del USDA, llamando al (866) 632-9992 o escribiendo una carta dirigida al USDA. La carta debe contener el nombre, dirección y número de teléfono del demandante, así como una descripción escrita de la supuesta acción discriminatoria con el suficiente detalle para informar al subsecretario de Derechos Civiles (ASCR, por sus siglas en inglés) sobre la naturaleza y la fecha de una supuesta violación de los derechos civiles. El formulario AD-3027 completo o la carta debe enviarse a:

    1. Correo: 
      Food and Nutrition Service, USDA
      1320 Braddock Place, Room 334
      Alexandria, VA 22314
    2. Fax:
      (833) 256-1665 o (202) 690-7442; o
    3. Correo electrónico:
      FNSCIVILRIGHTSCOMPLAINTS@usda.gov

    Esta institución ofrece igualdad de oportunidades.

    Oct 14, 2024

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Grad Students, Postdocs, and Early-Career Staff Prepare To Carry Torch of International Research Collaboration

    Source: US National Renewable Energy Laboratory

    NREL Empowers Next Generation of Globally Minded Scientists To Solve Global Energy Challenges

    In the afterglow of the 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games, it is worth remembering that athletic feats are not the only endeavors that resonate across international borders.

    Shifting to clean energy means addressing some of the most difficult technical challenges the world has faced—making collaboration key. It means investing in our future leaders and providing them opportunities to encounter new ideas, develop new skills, and become globally aware scientists.

    “Tackling the global threat of climate change will require a unified global effort, yet effective international collaboration remains as challenging as it is important,” said Steven Hayden, National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) microscopist and postdoctoral-researcher liaison. “Diversity is a critical human strength. By exposing our postdocs—tomorrow’s leaders—to a variety of worldviews and collaborative methods, we foster the global community necessary to secure our collective future.”

    At NREL, investing in postdocs and early-career researchers as global leaders starts by supporting them in attending international convenings, conferences, and summer schools. These are venues where they build professional networks, discover job opportunities, exchange ideas, and act as NREL ambassadors to the global energy research community.

    This summer, NREL postdocs and early-career staff participated in multiple events around the globe, including in Italy, Indonesia, Singapore, and stateside in Golden, Colorado, just down the road from NREL’s South Table Mountain Campus. In some cases, postdocs were competitively selected to attend.

    In Indonesia, RD20, an initiative among Group of 20 (G20) countries and regions to strengthen international collaborations among leading energy-research institutes, hosted its second annual summer school in summer 2024.

    Jacob Cordell (left) and Alex Hill (right) pose in front of an Indonesian presidential palace, Bogor Palace, at the Bogor Botanical Gardens, which they visited during the 2024 RD20 summer school. Photo from Alex Hill, NREL

    “This is an opportunity for graduate students, postdocs, and early-career researchers to get exposure to and even get involved with international research and development collaboration,” said NREL Associate Laboratory Director Bill Tumas, who sits on the RD20 action committee. “These events enable the next generation of our scientific workforce to gain an appreciation for the diversity of solutions and approaches for clean energy technologies.”

    Four NREL postdocs and early-career researchers participated in the RD20 organization’s summer school in 2024. The next summer school will be held at NREL in 2025.

    “We do world-class research, but going to the summer school made me realize that an integral piece of world-class research is interacting with the world,” said NREL postdoc Alex Hill, reflecting on his experience at the RD20 summer school. “I think that is something I want to try to take forward in my research: How can I engage community stakeholders more in the day-to-day operations of what I do?”

    Postdoc Diego Soetrisno, another RD20 summer school participant, said that the opportunity reinforced the value of contextualizing one’s own fundamental research amid an ongoing global exchange of ideas.

    “I did my Ph.D. doing really fundamental work, but there’s a gap between my fundamental work and context with the larger picture,” Soetrisno said. “This summer school experience has given me more understanding of the really large picture of decarbonization technology. But it is also trying to bring my work in context with other people’s work. Without that communication, my work would not be able to really influence other people.”

    Below are short descriptions and lists of participants in international convenings this summer. Congrats to this year’s participants!

    Barga, Italy—Electronic Processes in Organic Materials Gordon Research Conference

    The Electronic Processes in Organic Materials Gordon Research Conference focused on advancing the frontiers of science by having participants present cutting-edge and unpublished research, prioritizing time for discussion after each talk, and fostering informal interactions among scientists of all career stages.

    NREL participants:

    • Nick Hight-Huf, postdoctoral researcher
    • Bryon Larson, researcher
    • Max O’Connor, graduate student
    • Garry Rumbles, senior research fellow.

    South Tangerang, Indonesia—RD20 Summer School

    Photo from Alex Hill, NREL

    The 2024 RD20 summer school was titled “Diversity of Knowledge on Decarbonization in Just Energy Transition Mechanism,” providing an opportunity for young researchers from G20 countries to deepen their knowledge and skills in the field of decarbonization. Event themes were broad, ranging from life-cycle assessments, circular economy, and smart grids to biomass resources, energy storage, and hydrogen production and utilization.

    NREL participants:

    • Anthony Burrell, research advisor
    • Birdie Carpenter, researcher
    • Jacob Cordell, analyst
    • Randy Cortright, research advisor
    • Alex Hill, postdoctoral researcher
    • Prashant Saini, postdoctoral researcher
    • Diego Soetrisno, postdoctoral researcher
    • Bill Tumas, associate laboratory director.

    Golden, Colorado, USA—International School for Materials for Energy and Sustainability 2024

    Photo from Dave Ginley, NREL

    The International School for Materials for Energy and Sustainability 2024—another annual event—brought together Ph.D. students and postdocs to review and actively discuss/debate state-of-the-art and future perspectives for materials as they can be applied to energy generation and storage for a sustainable global energy infrastructure.

    NREL participants:

    • Zachary Binger, postdoctoral researcher
    • Sakshi Gautam, former NREL postdoctoral researcher
    • David Ginley, senior research fellow
    • Mukta Hardikar, postdoctoral researcher
    • Matthew Hautzinger, researcher
    • Jason Hirschey, postdoctoral researcher
    • Adarsh Kimar, postdoctoral researcher
    • Shubham Sundeep, postdoctoral researcher
    • Chenchao Xie, postdoctoral researcher
    • Adam Yonge, postdoctoral researcher.

    Learn about internships and postdoctoral positions at NREL.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Gov. Justice debuts Heritage Highway as newest route of West Virginia’s Mountain Rides Program

    Source: US State of West Virginia

    GHENT, WV — Gov. Justice held a celebration today to debut Heritage Highway, the newest route of the West Virginia Mountain Rides program. 

    Heritage Highway, a scenic loop that leads travelers throughout the southern region of the state, marks the fifth route of the West Virginia Mountain Rides program, a collaborative partnership between the West Virginia Department of Transportation and the West Virginia Department of Tourism to designate and promote the Mountain State’s most scenic country roads. 

    “Southern West Virginia holds a very special place in my heart, and I’m excited that our newest Mountain Ride route will give folks an opportunity to see its beauty firsthand,” Gov. Justice said. “Right now is the perfect time to get out and hit our country roads because the fall views are unlike any other. There’s nothing quite like taking the scenic route, and West Virginia has some of the most beautiful ones around.” 

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Bonta Files Amicus Brief on Importance of Protecting California’s Waterways

    Source: US State of California

    Monday, October 14, 2024

    Contact: (916) 210-6000, agpressoffice@doj.ca.gov

    OAKLAND – California Attorney General Rob Bonta, along with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, today filed an amicus brief with the California Court of Appeal, Fifth Appellate District, in support of the environmental plaintiffs in Bring Back the Kern v. City of Bakersfield. Last year, a coalition of environmental groups, led by Bring Back the Kern and Water Audit California, were granted their motion for a preliminary injunction requiring the City of Bakersfield to cease completely drying up the Kern River in violation of California Fish and Game Code section 5937. This critically important state environmental statute requires all dam owners and operators to release sufficient water below dams to keep fish below the dams in “good condition.” 

    However, certain agricultural water districts, served by the City’s diversions from the Kern River, appealed the trial court’s decision requiring some water to be left in the river, arguing that the trial court wrongly interpreted Section 5937 and that the City could continue to periodically completely drain sections of the river. The real-world impact of the City’s decisions was illustrated most recently the Friday before Labor Day of this year, when the City once again diverted all of the flows from the Kern River below the Calloway Weir to deliver to agricultural customers, leaving thousands of fish to die.

    “California’s waterways and ecosystems are the lifeblood of our state’s rich and diverse wildlife and natural habitats,” said Attorney General Rob Bonta. “Yet, in Bakersfield, the sudden loss of Kern River flows due to the city officials’ decisions to divert all water away from the river, is leaving behind a dry wasteland where fish are dying in droves. With today’s amicus brief, we urge the Court to allow enough water to flow in the Kern River, as required by law, to preserve ecosystems and ensure sustainability and viability of our fish populations.”

    “Conserving and protecting our fish and wildlife, and the habitats they call home, is of vital importance to the people of California. Failing to provide enough water for fish downstream not only damages ecosystems and fish populations but also violates California law,” said California Department of Fish and Wildlife Director Chuck Bonham. “This case could impact California’s ability to protect vulnerable fish and wildlife populations in the future. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife stands in partnership with Attorney General Bonta to help protect these irreplaceable fish populations for generations to come.” 

    In the amicus brief, Attorney General Bonta highlights the importance of Section 5937 to protecting California’s waterways and wildlife. The brief argues that the City of Bakersfield must comply with the plain language of California Fish and Game Code Section 5937 and release sufficient flows below the City’s six dams to keep fish in the Kern River in “good condition.”  The brief further argues that the water districts’ concerns regarding the available water supply can be addressed at the remedy stage of the injunctive proceedings, when the trial court will decide what specific amounts of flows are necessary to comply with Section 5937 pending entry of final judgment in the case.

    A copy of the amicus brief can be found here.

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Direct Cash Donations Make the Biggest Impact

    Source: US State of Oregon

    span>Many people are looking for ways to support hurricane ravaged communities, this is the perfect time to remind everyone that donating cash directly to organizations ensures your contribution is used the way you want it to be.

    While numerous well-meaning influencers and friends are raising money through t-shirt sales and social media donate buttons, those kinds of indirect donations mean not all your money will reach the organization.

    If you buy a $25 fund-raising t-shirt, only the profit will be donated. That means only what is left after transaction fees and the cost of making the shirt. So, a $25 t-shirt sale could result in only $10 going to an organization.

    But a direct cash donation of $25 to a reputable organization goes to the mission of that organization. There may be a small bank fee, but most banks offer nonprofits lower transaction fees than they do for-profit influencers.

    Also, organizations on the ground know what items and quantities are needed. They often buy in bulk with discounts and, if possible, purchase through businesses local to the disaster, which supports economic recovery. Cash donations are the fastest, most flexible and most effective method of donating.

    Any organization you choose to donate to should have a GuideStar rating, and you can use GuideStar’s free search to see how they rank among their peers. This is just one way to vet who you are donating to.

    The National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disasters (NVOAD) also has compiled a list of recognized disaster relief organizations.

    In addition to the NVOAD site, the State of North Carolina has set up a relief fund and clearly lays out how the money will be spent. It’s worth noting that any funds set up by government agencies are subject to public oversight and public records requests.

    For example, by law FEMA must provide a balance sheet every month, which includes a funding summary, a table delineating the Disaster Relief Fund (DRF) funding activities each month by state and event, a summary of the funding for the catastrophic events, and an estimate of the date on which the funds will be exhausted. These are available to the public on the FEMA website

    The FEMA website also outlines every state impacted and their trusted sources for donations and support.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: FEMA Staff in North Carolina Will Resume Normal Operations and Outreach, North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper and FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell Address Operational Updates

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: FEMA Staff in North Carolina Will Resume Normal Operations and Outreach, North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper and FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell Address Operational Updates

    FEMA Staff in North Carolina Will Resume Normal Operations and Outreach, North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper and FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell Address Operational Updates

    NORTH CAROLINA — The State of North Carolina and FEMA continue to work together to help communities recover from Hurricane Helene and provide assistance to survivors. 

    Over the past weekend, out of abundance of caution, FEMA made operational changes based on threat information. The changes did not impact ongoing search and rescue and life-safety operations, and Disaster Recovery Centers remained open. The threat was more limited than initially reported and mitigated by law enforcement. 

    Today, FEMA officials remain in communities and survivors are encouraged to continue to register for assistance. Disaster Survivor Assistance teams will resume normal operations in the field and housing inspectors will resume scheduling inspections to ensure survivors get the assistance they need and deserve. 

    “State, federal and local response workers, including FEMA, are working around the clock to bring assistance to western North Carolina,” said Governor Roy Cooper. “We know that significant misinformation online contributes to threats against response workers on the ground, and the safety of responders must be a priority. At my direction, the North Carolina Department of Public Safety is helping partners like FEMA to coordinate with law enforcement to ensure their safety and security as they continue their important work.”

    “Keeping FEMA staff safe while they are helping people in disaster impacted communities is always my top priority. I wanted to make sure we protected our staff on the ground while we worked diligently with local law enforcement to understand the full situation,” said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. “Thanks to our close partnership with Governor Roy Cooper and his team, as well as local law enforcement, FEMA teams will soon be back doing what they do best – meeting people where they are and going door to door to register survivors for assistance. FEMA and the entire federal family will be in North Carolina for as long as it takes to help these communities recover. Together, we will continue to reach as many North Carolinians as possible and get them the help they need, while ensuring the safety of our FEMA employees and state partners.”

    As of today, FEMA has provided more than $96 million in housing and other types of assistance for over 75,000 households and the agency continues to work closely with the State of North Carolina to reach as make people as possible where they are. Additionally, FEMA and the State continue to operate four Disaster Recovery Centers in Asheville, Lenoir, Marion and Sylva where survivors can speak directly with FEMA and state personnel for assistance with their recovery. To find the nearest center, visit FEMA.gov/DRC. 

    amy.ashbridge
    Mon, 10/14/2024 – 22:42

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Torres Commemorates Indigenous Peoples’ Day

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Norma Torres (35th District of California)

    October 14, 2024

    Torres is the only Member of Congress to introduce legislation that would replace Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples’ Day

    Washington D.C.  –Today, Congresswoman Norma J. Torres, a member of the Congressional Native American Caucus, commemorates Indigenous Peoples’ Day with her bill, H.R. 5822 of the bicameral Indigenous Peoples’ Day Act alongside Representatives Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), Sharice Davids (KS-03), and Suzan DelBene (WA-01), and Senators Martin Heinrich (D-NM) and Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), this legislation would would designate Indigenous Peoples’ Day as a legal public holiday and replace the term ‘‘Columbus Day’’ with the term ‘‘Indigenous Peoples’ Day.’’ 

    “It has been a year since the Indigenous Peoples’ Day Act was reintroduced, and our nation needs to recognize and work towards addressing the deep-seated historical injustices and suffering experienced by the natives across the country,” said Congresswoman Norma Torres. “The Indigenous Peoples’ Day Act seeks to honor the enduring presence of the tribes that inhabited the Americas long before the arrival of Western explorers. By establishing Indigenous Peoples’ Day as a federal holiday, we can take a meaningful step towards acknowledging the complexities of our nation’s history and celebrating the rich traditions and culture of all Indigenous communities who are an integral part of the United States history. It is time for my colleagues in the House and Senate to unite in passing this critical legislation, ensuring that we pay tribute to the cultures and significant contributions of Indigenous peoples to our nation.”

    “Recognizing Indigenous Peoples’ Day is an essential step toward honoring the accomplishments and strength of Tribal Nations across New Mexico and the country,” said Senator Luján, a member of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs. “I’m proud to lead this effort to officially designate Indigenous Peoples’ Day and am hopeful that Congress will follow in New Mexico’s footsteps and recognize the holiday federally. Throughout history, Native people have played a vital role in our society and shaping our nation’s history – from serving in the military, educating our children, to boosting our economy – and it is well past time to celebrate their contributions. I look forward to working with my colleagues to pass this bill and honor all the triumphs of our Tribal communities.” 

    “On Indigenous Peoples’ Day we recognize the immense contributions Indigenous communities have made throughout our country’s history and before its founding,” said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. “We also must acknowledge the many injustices that continue to affect Indigenous communities today. I’m pleased to join my colleagues in this important effort to establish Indigenous Peoples’ Day as a federal holiday.”

    “Indigenous People’s Day is not only a time to acknowledge the centuries of discrimination that Native peoples have experienced, but an opportunity to celebrate how much Indigenous peoples’ rich cultures have contributed to our nation’s history,” said Representative Sharice L. Davids. “As one of the first Native American women elected to Congress and a proud member of the Ho-Chunk Nation, I am proud to join my colleagues in calling for the national celebration of Indigenous Peoples’ Day.”

    “Indigenous Peoples’ Day is an opportunity for us to unite in celebration of the rich tapestry of tribal nations, their diverse cultures, and the important contributions they have made to our communities,” said Congresswoman Suzan DelBene. “Cementing this observance also acknowledges the current and historical injustices Indigenous communities face and renews our commitment to preserving their rights as we work toward a more inclusive and equitable society.”

    “As President of the Navajo Nation, I am proud to support Congresswoman Torre’s and Senator Heinrich’s efforts to pass the Indigenous Peoples’ Day Act. Indigenous Peoples’ Day is an opportunity for all of us to come together to honor the rich histories, cultures and contributions of Indigenous communities across the country. It is a day to reflect on the resilience of our people, and to promote understanding and respect for our heritage. By recognizing Indigenous Peoples’ Day, we celebrate our past and pave the way for a future built on mutual respect and collaboration. This is a day for education, reflection and unity as we work toward healing and progress.” – Dr. Buu Nygren, President of the Navajo Nation

    Full Indigenous Peoples’ Day Act Bill

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-Evening Report: Do people trust AI on financial decisions? We found it really depends on who they are

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Gertjan Verdickt, Lecturer, Business School, University of Auckland, Waipapa Taumata Rau

    When it comes to investing and planning your financial future, are you more willing to trust a person or a computer?

    This isn’t a hypothetical question any more.

    Big banks and investment firms are using artificial intelligence (AI) to help make financial predictions and give advice to clients.

    Morgan Stanley uses AI to mitigate the potential biases of its financial analysts when it comes to stock market predictions. And one of the world’s biggest investment banks, Goldman Sachs, recently announced it was trialling the use of AI to help write computer code, though the bank declined to say which division it was being used in. Other companies are using AI to predict which stocks might go up or down.

    But do people actually trust these AI advisers with their money?

    Our new research examines this question. We found it really depends on who you are and your prior knowledge of AI and how it works.

    Despite the growing sophistication of artificial intelligence, investors prefer human expertise when it comes to stock market predictions, according to a new study.

    Trust differences

    To examine the question of trust when it comes to using AI for investment, we asked 3,600 people in the United States to imagine they were getting advice about the stock market.

    In these imagined scenarios, some people got advice from human experts. Others got advice from AI. And some got advice from humans working together with AI.

    In general, people were less likely to follow advice if they knew AI was involved in making it. They seemed to trust the human experts more.

    But the distrust of AI wasn’t universal. Some groups of people were more open to AI advice than others.

    For example, women were more likely to trust AI advice than men (by 7.5%). People who knew more about AI were more willing to listen to the advice it provided (by 10.1%). And politics mattered – people who supported the Democratic Party were more open to AI advice than others (by 7.3%).

    We also found people were more likely to trust simpler AI methods.

    When we told our research participants the AI was using something called “ordinary least squares” (a basic mathematics technique in which a straight line is used to estimate the relationship between two variables), they were more likely to trust it than when we said it was using “deep learning” (a more complex AI method).

    This might be because people tend to trust things they understand. Much like how a person might trust a simple calculator more than a complex scientific instrument they have never seen before.

    Trust in the future of finance

    As AI becomes more common in the financial world, companies will need to find ways to improve levels of trust.

    This might involve teaching people more about how the AI systems work, being clear about when and how AI is being used, and finding the right balance between human experts and AI.

    Furthermore, we need to tailor how AI advice is presented to different groups of people and show how well AI performs over time compared to human experts.

    The future of finance might involve a lot more AI, but only if people learn to trust it. It’s a bit like learning to trust self-driving cars. The technology might be great, but if people don’t feel comfortable using it, it won’t catch on.

    Our research shows that building this trust isn’t just about making better AI. It’s about understanding how people think and feel about AI. It’s about bridging the gap between what AI can do and what people believe it can do.

    As we move forward, we’ll need to keep studying how people react to AI in finance. We’ll need to find ways to make AI not just a powerful tool, but a trusted advisor that people feel comfortable relying on for important financial decisions.

    The world of finance is changing fast, and AI is a big part of that change. But in the end, it’s still people who decide where to put their money. Understanding how to build trust between humans and AI will be key to shaping the future of finance.

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

    – ref. Do people trust AI on financial decisions? We found it really depends on who they are – https://theconversation.com/do-people-trust-ai-on-financial-decisions-we-found-it-really-depends-on-who-they-are-240900

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Serious crash, SH1, Waiouru

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    State Highway 1 is blocked by a serious crash involving a vehicle and a truck.

    At least one person has critical injuries.

    The crash was reported about 11.05am, and happened south of Waiouru, between Hassett Drive and Waiaruhe Road.

    The Serious Crash Unit has been advised.

    Traffic management is being arranged, but motorists are advised to expect delays.

    ENDS

    Issued by the Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Australia – Footy finals not enough to boost September spending – CBA

    Source: Commonwealth Bank of Australia

    CommBank’s Household Spending Insights Index dipped in September, as consumers refrain from spending extra cash from income tax cuts.

    The monthly CommBank Household Spending Insights (HSI) Index declined 0.7 per cent in September to 146.7, despite increased recreation spending around the AFL and NRL Grand Finals.

    Six of the twelve spending categories saw a decline in the month, with Hospitality leading the drop (-2.8 per cent), followed by Transport (-2.5 per cent), Household Goods (-2.3 per cent), and Food & Beverage (-0.6 per cent).

    Recreation helped offset these declines, rising 1.5 per cent in September, largely driven by an 18 per cent surge in Ticketing Services as eager sports fans snapped up tickets to the AFL and NRL grand finals. Spending on Education and Insurance also rose, each up by 0.7 per cent. Utilities spending, unexpectedly up 1.3 per cent, reflected the impact of rising local council and strata management fees, even as electricity costs declined off the back of government rebates.

    There has been a notable decline in spending on Transport, impacted by the falling price of petrol, down approximately 15 per cent in the past 12 months. Transport was the only category to record declines both monthly (-2.5 per cent) and annually (-7.2 per cent).

    On an annual basis, there was a significant slowdown in the pace of spending growth in the year to September to just to 2.1 per cent, down from 3.7 per cent in August.

    Renters have witnessed the weakest spending in the year to September, down 1.1 per cent for the year, compared to though with a mortgage (+1.2 per cent) and those who own their home outright (+2.3 per cent).

    CBA Chief Economist Stephen Halmarick said HSI data suggested income tax cuts had not led to a material rise in consumer spending.

    “The spending slowdown in September was expected after an early Father’s Day led to consumers splashing out on household goods and hospitality for Dad. Although we saw a rise in Recreation spending associated with the AFL and NRL Grand Finals, consumer spending overall remains subdued, now growing at just over two per cent for the year.”

    “It’s important to note that the only other spending categories to rise in September were all essentials, indicating that increased take-home pay from tax cuts is largely being used to pay down debt and on staples, not spending on discretionary items. This trend is reflected in the year to September, supporting our view that softer economic data, coupled with a further deceleration in inflation will see the RBA cut interest rates in December 2024.”

    The CommBank HSI Index tracks month-on-month data at a macro level and is based on de-identified payments data from approximately 7 million CBA customers, comprising roughly 30 per cent of all Australian consumer transactions.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Ruby launches into action to build final Metro West tunnel under Sydney Harbour

    Source: New South Wales Government 2

    Headline: Ruby launches into action to build final Metro West tunnel under Sydney Harbour

    Published: 15 October 2024

    Released by: Minister for Transport

    Tunnel boring machine (TBM) Ruby has begun its journey to carve out the final section of tunnel for the city-shaping Sydney Metro West project.

    Launching from The Bays, TBM Ruby will join TBM Jessie in constructing 2.3-kilometre twin railway tunnels that will take metro deep below the harbour, this time creating another key connection into the heart of the city for people living in Sydney’s west.

    TBM Ruby is named after women’s rights activist and Australia’s first radio astronomer Ruby Payne-Scott and is the sixth and final TBM to get to work on building the 24-kilometre Metro West tunnels.

    The 1,100-tonne machine will operate around the clock, seven days a week. It will slowly inch its way alongside the iconic Anzac Bridge, through the Pyrmont Station site, and under Darling Harbour, before arriving at its final destination at Hunter Street in the Sydney CBD.

    TBM Jessie is hard at work on the parallel tunnel and has excavated 615 metres and installed 2,238 concrete segments to line the new tunnel walls since commencing its tunnelling journey in June.

    A total of 460,000 tonnes of material will be excavated and 16,536 segments will be installed by the two TBMs to construct the tunnels between The Bays and Hunter Street.

    These tunnels will form the second under-harbour railway crossing for Sydney, with the first built between the city’s north and Barangaroo for the metro M1 line, which has recorded 82 million journeys since opening on 19 August.

    TBMs Ruby and Jessie are heading towards Pyrmont Crossover and Station caverns, where they will traverse the station cavern before being relaunched towards Hunter Street Station.

    TBMs Ruby and Jessie are mixed shield (slurry) machines, specifically designed for the Metro West project to excavate in the highly pressurised conditions that are anticipated under Sydney Harbour.

    Parts of both TBMs came from the TBMs used to construct the Sydney Metro City & Southwest tunnels.

    The TBMs are expected to arrive at Hunter Street in mid-late 2025.

    Sydney Metro tunnelling partners John Holland CPB Contractors Ghella Joint Venture are excavating the under-harbour tunnels and two new station caverns at Pyrmont and Hunter Street as part of the Sydney Metro West – Eastern Tunnelling Package.

    Major tunnelling is progressing across the alignment, with two TBMs completing the 11-kilometre tunnels from The Bays to Sydney Olympic Park, and a further two TBMs in the ground to build the nine-kilometre tunnels between Sydney Olympic Park and Westmead.

    Sydney Metro West will double rail capacity between Greater Parramatta and the Sydney CBD. It will make it easier and faster to travel around western Sydney, link new communities to rail services and support employment growth and housing supply.   

    For more information about the project, visit sydneymetro.info/west/project-overview.

    Minister for Transport Jo Haylen said:

    “Our sixth and final Tunnel Boring Machine is now on her way as we build the game-changing Metro West project. 

    “TBM Ruby will dig a highly complex section of tunnel, carving its way beside the Anzac Bridge, below two sections of the harbour and finishing in the centre of the Sydney CBD.

    “Over the next 20 years, 420,000 people are expected to move into the corridor surrounding this these future Metro stations. This new line will keep our growing city moving.”

    MIL OSI News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Arrest – Death – Lajamanu

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Northern Territory Police are investigating an alleged domestic violence stabbing death that occurred yesterday in Lajamanu.

    Around 6:20pm, police received a report of a seriously injured 42-year-old woman at the local clinic with a large crowd gathered. Police attended the location and the woman was declared deceased a short time later.

    It is believed she was stabbed with an edged weapon.

    The 46-year-old male partner of the woman was arrested nearby after being allegedly assaulted by unknown community members. He suffered non-life-threatening injuries and remains in custody.

    Two crime scenes have been declared, and Major Crime detectives have taken over the investigation.

    The 46-year-old is expected to be charged in relation to the death later this evening.

    Anyone with information who has not yet spoken to police is urged to contact 131 444 or Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000.

    If you or someone you know are experiencing difficulties due to domestic violence, support services are available, including, but not limited to, 1800RESPECT (1800737732) or Lifeline 131 114.

    MIL OSI News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Video: Army announces the 2024 Best of the Best!

    Source: US Army (video statements)

    #ICYMI Earlier today the #USArmy announced our Best of the Best for 2024.

    #ArmyBestSquad: United States Army Pacific Command

    Soldier of the Year: Spc. Mason Breunig, USARPAC

    NCO of the Year: Sgt. 1st Class Alexander Haynes, U.S. Army Medical Command

    These Soldiers were selected after competing in the week-long Best Squad Competition.

    The competition features a multitude of different fitness and combat-related events ranging from the Army Combat Fitness Test and various weapons lanes, to a strenuous 12-mile foot march and detailed individual warrior tasks and squad battle drills.

    Visit https://army.mil/bestsquad for more information about the competition.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B3UIKvUmz7o

    MIL OSI Video –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Your words can change people’s lives. This is how.

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Every year, people from around the world take part in Amnesty International’s Write for Rights campaign.

    It’s a really easy way to make a big difference by doing something “little”. It doesn’t take much time – all you need to do is write a letter, send a post or sign a petition. Honestly, it’s that easy to change the world!

    Since Write for Rights started in 2001, millions of people have changed the lives of those whose human rights have been taken away. In fact, over the past 20 years more than 56 million actions have been taken, while over 100 people featured in our campaign have seen a positive outcome in their case.

    It’s a privilege to see how your actions make a difference.

    Meet three incredible people whose lives have been changed for the better and find out what people power means to them.

    MIL OSI NGO –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Human Rights Education toolkits for Write for Rights 2024

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Amnesty International’s “Write for Rights” campaign takes place annually around 10 December, which is Human Rights Day (marking the day when the Universal Declaration of Human Rights was adopted in 1948). Write for Rights aims to bring about change to the lives of people or communities that have suffered or are at risk of human rights violations.

    Some 20 years ago, a small group of activists in Poland ran a 24-hour letter-writing marathon. Over the following years, the idea spread. Today, Write for Rights is the world’s biggest human rights event.

    From 2,326 letters in 2001 to more than 6 million letters, tweets, petition signatures and other actions in 2023, people the world over have used the power of their words to unite behind the idea that geography is no barrier to solidarity. In 2023 alone, more than 1.4 million people were engaged through human rights education activities. Together, these individuals have helped transform the lives of more than 100 people over the years, freeing them from torture, harassment or unjust imprisonment.

    The human rights education toolkit for this year’s Write for Rights campaign can help educators and participants to gain more understanding and build solidarity, preparing them to take action. These human rights education activities can take place in a variety of settings, such as a school classroom, a community group, a family or an activist group. As a facilitator, you can adapt the activity to best suit the needs and context of the group you are working with. For example, you may want to consider what knowledge the group already has about the issues discussed, the size and age range of your group and how to best organize the activity to allow for active participation, the physical setting of your activity, delivering it in-person or online and any limitations. When participants want to take action on a case, discuss with them whether it is safe for them to do so.

    The activities are all based on participatory learning methods in which learners are not merely presented with information, they explore, discuss, analyze and question issues relating to the stories they will work with in each activity. This methodology allows participants to:

    • develop key competencies and skills
    • form their own opinions, raise questions, and gain a deeper understanding of the issues presented
    • take control of their learning, and shapes discussions according to their interests, abilities and concerns
    • have the space required for them to engage emotionally and develop their own attitudes

    Write for Rights 2024 General Activity

    Neth Nahara, Angola

    Joel Paredes, Argentina

    Maryia Kalesnikava, Belarus

    Wet’suwet’en Nation land defenders, Canada

    Kyung Seok Park, South Korea

    Manahel al-Otaibi, Saudi Arabia

    Professor Şebnem Korur Fincancı, Türkiye

    MIL OSI NGO –

    January 23, 2025
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