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  • MIL-OSI USA: Biden-Harris Administration Prepared for Multi-State Event as Hurricane Helene Approaches, FEMA Encourages People in Storm’s Path to Listen to Local Officials

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Biden-Harris Administration Prepared for Multi-State Event as Hurricane Helene Approaches, FEMA Encourages People in Storm’s Path to Listen to Local Officials

    Biden-Harris Administration Prepared for Multi-State Event as Hurricane Helene Approaches, FEMA Encourages People in Storm’s Path to Listen to Local Officials

    At the Direction of President Biden, FEMA Administrator to Travel to Florida to Survey Impacts

    WASHINGTON — Hurricane Helene is a massive, dangerous storm and FEMA is prepared for anticipated multi-state impacts. In advance of Hurricane Helene’s landfall in Florida, the Biden-Harris Administration approved pre-landfall emergency declarations for Florida, Georgia and North Carolina. These declarations enable FEMA to provide federal resources to the states for emergency protective measures like reimbursement for evacuations and sheltering and aid initial response and recovery efforts.

    FEMA urges people in the path of Hurricane Helene to take immediate action to protect themselves as the storm approaches. Hurricane Helene is expected to continue strengthening and bring life-threating storm surge and hurricane conditions to Florida starting today. There is also the risk for dangerous flash and flooding in Alabama, Georgia, North Carolina and South Carolina.

    “The Biden-Harris Administration is ready for this event. We are prepared and postured for response,” said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. “People in Hurricane Helene’s path need to take this seriously. Listen to your state and local elected officials. If they tell you to evacuate, evacuate. If they tell you to shelter in place, stay where you are. These decisions can save lives.”

    FEMA, the entire federal family and partner organizations are actively coordinating response efforts across Florida, Georgia and North Carolina. There are over 1,100 personnel actively supporting from across the federal government, which include Urban Search and Rescue Teams, Coast Guard, the Department of Defense and power restoration teams from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. An additional 700 FEMA team members already deployed across the region from previous events. To help people who may need to evacuate, the American Red Cross is actively standing up shelters in the areas likely to feel the impacts from Helene.

    Safety Tips During the Storm

    Residents in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina and South Carolina can find a list of state, tribal and local resources such as evacuation, shelter and important storm updates on FEMA.gov.

    • Pay attention to local officials. Weather conditions can change quickly. Make sure to heed their warnings and evacuate immediately if told to do so.
    • NOW is the time to finish preparations. Today is the day to prepare for this storm. Take action immediately to protect yourself, your family, your pets and your home. Finish gathering any supplies like food, water, medication, flashlights and food for your pets now. If possible, include cash in your emergency kit, as ATMs may not work after the storm.
    • If you did not evacuate, stay safe at home. Gather your supplies including flashlights, battery operated radio and food and water and keep them on a high shelf or upper level. Find a safe location to ride out the storm, such as a designated storm shelter or interior room for high winds.
    • Be in the know about your evacuation route. Several counties in Florida issued mandatory and voluntary evacuation orders. Visit Evacuation Orders | Florida Disaster to see the full list. Florida residents can call 800-729-3413 for shelter locations. People in Florida, Alabama and Georgia should be prepared to evacuate quickly if they are in the path of this storm and are told to do so.
    • Have several ways to receive alerts. People in areas along Florida’s Panhandle, west coast and into Alabama and Georgia should follow the forecast carefully and instructions of state and local officials by monitoring local radio or television stations for updated emergency information. Sign up for community alerts in your area and be aware of the Emergency Alert System (EAS) and Wireless Emergency Alert (WEA), which require no sign up. You can also download the free FEMA App available in English and Spanish languages to receive real-time weather alerts and find local emergency shelters in your area.
    • Your neighbors are your lifeline. Check on your neighbors, especially older adults or those who may need additional assistance, to make sure they have what they need to ride out the storm. Have a plan to remain in contact during and after the storm.
    • Power outage and generator safety. If you lose power, use only flashlights or battery-powered lanterns for emergency lighting. If using a generator, remember to always use them outdoors and keep it at least 20 feet from doors and windows. Additionally, make sure to keep the generator dry and protected from rain or flooding. De-clutter drains and gutters, bring in outside furniture and put up hurricane shutters if you have them.
    • Stay out of floodwater. Walking, swimming or driving through flood waters is extremely dangerous. Standing water may be electrically charged from underground or downed power lines or contain hazards such as wild or stray animals, human and livestock waste and chemicals that can lead to illness.
    • Turn Around. Don’t Drown™. Driving through a flooded area can be extremely hazardous. Almost half of all flash flood deaths happen in vehicles. When in your car, look out for flooding in low lying areas at bridges and at highway dips. As little as 6 inches of water may cause you to lose control of your vehicle or fall if you are walking through it. Two feet of rushing water can carry away most vehicles including sport utility vehicles (SUVs) and pick-ups.
    • Keep important documents safe. Save copies of birth certificates, passports, medical records and insurance papers in a safe, dry place. Keep important documents in a waterproof container and create password-protected digital copies. Take photos or videos of your belongings and property on your phone or upload them to the internet. Move valuables like photo albums, heirlooms and other treasured items to higher levels.

    mashana.davis

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Biden Administration Announces New Security Assistance Package for Ukraine

    Source: United States Department of Defense

    Today, as part of the surge of assistance that President Biden directed ahead of his meeting with President Zelenskyy, the Department of Defense (DoD) announced a significant new security assistance package to ensure Ukraine has the tools it needs to prevail in its fight against Russian aggression. This security assistance package commits an additional $2.4 billion in support through the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative (USAI) that will provide Ukraine with additional air defense, Unmanned Aerial Systems, and air-to-ground munitions, as well as strengthen Ukraine’s defense industrial base and support its maintenance and sustainment requirements. 

    The capabilities in this announcement include:

    • Munitions and support for Ukrainian air defense systems;
    • Air-to-ground munitions;
    • Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) and components to support Ukrainian production of UAS;
    • Counter-UAS equipment;  Unmanned surface vessels;
    • Secure communications equipment;
    • Equipment and materiel to support Ukrainian munitions production; and 
    • Spare parts, maintenance and sustainment support, and other ancillary equipment.

    This is the Biden Administration’s twenty-first USAI package. The United States will continue to work together with some 50 Allies and partners through the Ukraine Defense Contact Group and its associated capability coalitions to provide the support Ukraine needs to win the war.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Integrated Youth Services Site Opens in Humboldt

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on September 26, 2024

    Today, the province’s first Integrated Youth Services (IYS) site, or hub, opened its doors in Humboldt, delivering supports to young people ages 12 to 25 and their caregivers. 

    The hub is located at 307 Main Street and will operate under the name HOMEBASE. It will provide co-located access to mental health and addictions services; physical health services; peer supports; education, employment and training supports; cultural and traditional supports; and social and community supports.

    “We are proud to have our first youth-focused and youth-friendly services center opening in Humboldt,” Humboldt-Watrous MLA Donna Harpauer said on behalf of Mental Health and Addictions Minister Tim McLeod. “Integrated Youth Services is an innovative way to connect young people and their caregivers with the resources they need to enhance their wellbeing.”

    The HOMEBASE team within the John Howard Society of Saskatchewan (JHSS) is leading the implementation of hubs across the province with $3.4 million in funding from the Government of Saskatchewan for development and operations. 

    “We are thrilled to have our first HOMEBASE youth hub opening in Humboldt,” Integrated Youth Services HOMEBASE Director Pam Reimer said. “Our lead agency and their local youth co-design team have been hard at work to create a safe, inclusive, barrier-free environment to serve the youth of Humboldt and the surrounding area.”

    PARTNERS Family Services has been contracted by the JHSS to operate HOMEBASE Humboldt, which also has support from local school divisions, the Saskatchewan Health Authority, Humboldt and District Community Services, Sask Central Victim Services and other community partners.

    “Our team has been working tirelessly with our youth, caregivers, and community partners to shape HOMEBASE Humboldt and our service delivery model,” PARTNERS Family Services Executive Director Hayley Kennedy said. “We are so excited to bring this model to Humboldt and offer barrier-free access to mental health and wellbeing supports, physical health care, and other areas of need as identified by our diverse youth community.”

    IYS is a national and international movement, aimed at reimagining how youth and their caregivers find and access the resources, services and supports they need.

    In January 2024, the JHSS announced that the first IYS hubs were selected with partner organizations. In the coming weeks, HOMEBASE hubs in Regina and Moose Jaw will also become operational. Sturgeon Lake First Nation is the fourth community to host a hub, after previously hosting one as part of a national research project. HOMEBASE Sturgeon Lake will open later in 2024-25.

    Additional information on HOMEBASE’s integrated youth services is available at homebasesask.ca and Integrated Youth Services.

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    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: The music never stops at South Health Campus | La musique ne s’arrête jamais au South Health Campus

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    After the impressive success of the pilot concert series earlier this year, Alberta’s government is providing a $19,000 grant to Calgary company Stagehand to bring a second concert season to the South Health Campus. The second season of the full-year concert series will begin on Sept. 26.

    A patient watches local musicians play at the South Health Campus music series pilot project in February of 2024.

    This grant renews the pilot project from February 2024, when Alberta’s government first enabled Stagehand to bring musicians to perform for South Health Campus patients, staff and visitors.

    “Alberta’s government recognizes the incredible impact music has on people’s lives, and how it can give people the strength to beat their illness. That is why we are proud to support this amazing concert series that supports local artists and helps lift spirits at the South Health Campus.”

    Tanya Fir, Minister of Arts, Culture and Status of Women

    “Music has the power to heal and uplift, and this concert series brings that joy to patients, families and health care workers. We’re proud to support Alberta’s talented musicians while enhancing the well-being of everyone at the South Health Campus.”

    Adriana LaGrange, Minister of Health

    Stagehand offers a digital platform that connects artists with venues to book and promote live events. The Calgary-based company will provide the platform to manage an open call for artists, selection, contracting, scheduling, payment and data collection.

    The pilot project in February included 10 performances at various times and locations at the South Health Campus. The program aligns with the government’s goals for Alberta’s continued economic success by supporting the province’s music industry. This project also helps share Alberta’s cultures, perspectives and stories through music while supporting local musicians.

    “Stagehand is proud to bring music back into Calgary’s South Health Campus for a second concert series. Music has an incredible ability to heal, and Stagehand is exploring even more ways to get more music to the people who need it. I would like to thank Alberta’s government and Minister Fir for the continued support, and I look forward to collaborating in the future.”

    Derek Manns, co-founder and chief executive officer, Stagehand

    “Music offers more than just entertainment for patients; it provides a powerful source of joy, comfort and healing, especially for those dealing with pain, undergoing medical procedures, rehabilitation therapies, or facing long hospital stays. By reducing anxiety, lowering blood pressure and enhancing mood, music fosters a sense of calm and empowerment, helping patients regain control in the midst of their challenges.”

    Dr. Stephanie Plamondon, physician, Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation at South Health Campus, and clinical professor, University of Calgary

    Quick facts

    • According to West Anthem’s Resonant Energies: A Music City Strategy for Calgary released in May, music contributed $1.7 billion to Alberta’s GDP and supported 20,577 jobs in 2020.
    • Feedback on the pilot project in February was overwhelmingly positive, with 97 per cent of audiences reporting being satisfied or very satisfied with the performances, and 82 per cent of musicians reporting a positive impact on their mental health.

    Related information

    • Alberta Health Services Upcoming Events – Stagehand (Concert Schedule)

    Related news

    • Good vibrations for Calgary’s South Health Campus | Bonnes vibrations au South Health Campus de Calgary (Jan. 19, 2024)
    • Music encore at Calgary’s South Health Campus | La musique en rappel au South Health Campus de Calgary (July 16, 2024)

    Une série de concerts qui aide à remonter le moral et à guérir les Albertaines et Albertains au South Health Campus de Calgary est de retour pour une deuxième saison.

    Après le succès retentissant de la série de concerts pilotes présentée au début de l’année, le gouvernement de l’Alberta a accordé une subvention de 19 000 dollars à l’entreprise Stagehand de Calgary pour qu’elle puisse organiser une deuxième série de concerts au South Health Campus. La deuxième série de concerts s’étendra sur toute l’année et débutera le 26 septembre.

    En février 2024, un patient regarde des musiciens de la région jouer dans le cadre du projet pilote de la série musicale du South Health Campus.

    Cette subvention renouvelle le projet pilote de février 2024, lorsque le gouvernement de l’Alberta a permis pour la première fois à Stagehand d’inviter des musiciens à se produire devant les patients, le personnel et les visiteurs du South Health Campus.

    « Le gouvernement de l’Alberta reconnaît l’impact incroyable de la musique sur la vie des gens et la façon dont elle peut leur donner la force de vaincre leur maladie. C’est pourquoi nous sommes fiers de soutenir cette formidable série de concerts, qui permet d’encourager les artistes locaux tout en remontant le moral des gens au South Health Campus. »

    Tanya Fir, ministre des Arts, de la Culture et de la Condition féminine

    « La musique a le pouvoir de guérir et de remonter le moral des gens, et cette série de concerts apporte cette joie aux patients, aux familles et aux travailleurs de la santé. Nous sommes fiers de soutenir les musiciens talentueux de l’Alberta tout en améliorant le bien-être de toutes et de tous au South Health Campus. »

    Adriana LaGrange, ministre de la Santé

    L’entreprise Stagehand met en relation les artistes et les établissements en proposant une plateforme numérique qui permet de réserver et de promouvoir des événements en direct. Basée à Calgary, l’entreprise fournira la plateforme où pourront être gérés les appels ouverts aux artistes et leur sélection, les contrats, la programmation, le paiement et la collecte de données.

    Le projet pilote de février a permis de donner dix représentations à des heures et à des endroits différents au South Health Campus. Le programme s’inscrit dans les objectifs du gouvernement qui visent à assurer le succès économique continu de l’Alberta grâce au soutien de l’industrie musicale de la province. Ce projet contribue également à partager, par la musique, les cultures, les perspectives et les récits de l’Alberta, tout en soutenant les musiciens locaux.

    « Stagehand est fière de ramener la musique au South Health Campus de Calgary pour une deuxième série de concerts. La musique a une incroyable capacité de guérison, et Stagehand explore encore plus de moyens pour apporter plus de musique aux personnes qui en ont besoin. Je tiens à remercier le gouvernement de l’Alberta et la ministre Fir de leur soutien continu, et je me réjouis à l’idée de continuer à collaborer avec eux. »

    Derek Manns, cofondateur et directeur général de Stagehand

    « La musique est plus qu’un simple divertissement pour les patients; elle est une puissante source de joie, de réconfort et de guérison, en particulier pour celles et ceux qui souffrent, qui subissent des procédures médicales, des thérapies de réadaptation ou qui doivent effectuer de longs séjours à l’hôpital. En réduisant l’anxiété, en abaissant la tension artérielle et en améliorant l’humeur, la musique favorise un sentiment de calme et d’autonomisation, ce qui aide les patients en difficulté à reprendre le contrôle de leur santé. »

    Stephanie Plamondon, médecin, Département de physiatrie et de réadaptation du South Health Campus, et professeur clinique à l’université de Calgary

    En bref

    • Selon le rapport intitulé « Resonant Energies: A Music City Strategy for Calgary », publié en mai, la musique a contribué à hauteur de 1,7 milliard de dollars au PIB de l’Alberta, en plus de soutenir 20 577 emplois en 2020.
    • Les réactions au projet pilote de février ont été extrêmement positives : 97 % des spectateurs se sont déclarés satisfaits ou très satisfaits des spectacles, et 82 % des musiciens ont fait état d’un impact positif sur leur santé mentale.

    Renseignements connexes (en anglais seulement)

    • Alberta Health Services Upcoming Events – Stagehand (horaire des concerts)

    Nouvelles connexes

    • Good vibrations for Calgary’s South Health Campus | Bonnes vibrations au South Health Campus de Calgary (19 janvier 2024)
    • Music encore at Calgary’s South Health Campus | La musique en rappel au South Health Campus de Calgary (16 juillet 2024)

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Canada named as Country of The Year for France’s 2025 Viva Technology 

    Source: Government of Canada News

    News release

    September 26, 2024 – Ottawa, Ontario – Global Affairs Canada

    Today, the Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Export Promotion, International Trade and Economic Development, announced that Canada has been named the Country of The Year for Viva Technology 2025, the largest technology event in Europe, which is scheduled for June 11 to 14, 2025 in Paris, France. This honour reinforces Canada’s reputation as a worldwide leader in artificial intelligence. Scale AI, Canada’s Global Innovation Cluster focused on Artificial Intelligence (AI), will lead Canada’s business delegation.

    Viva Technology is a major annual technology conference where business leaders, startups, and investors come together to share ideas and showcase innovative technologies. As the Country of The Year, Canada will showcase its expertise to the global community and connect with thousands of visionary startups, investors, organizations, researchers, and media during the ninth edition of one of the world’s biggest tech events. Leveraging advancements in AI can enhance Canada’s economy, increase productivity, and create exciting new opportunities for all Canadians.

    Companies interested in being part of Canada’s delegation to Viva Technology 2025 can express their interest through Scale AI, Canada’s AI Global Innovation Cluster focused on leveraging AI to improve value chains.

    Canada’s participation in Viva Technology 2025 was addressed by Prime Minister Trudeau and French President Macron in their Joint Declaration as President Macron concluded his visit to Canada yesterday. This reflects the strong collaboration between Canada and France in artificial intelligence through initiatives like the Global Partnerships on AI and the Centres of Excellence in Montreal and Paris. Viva Technology 2025 will provide an excellent opportunity to build on our ongoing work with France to strengthen cooperation among governments, organizations, and businesses to deliver technology solutions that are responsible, secure, and grounded in human rights and democratic values.

    Quotes

    “As the Country of The Year at Viva Technology 2025, Canada will stand at the forefront of innovation, showcasing the immense trade benefits that arise from connecting startups, technology leaders, large companies, and investors. Together, Canada and France are not only enhancing global collaboration but also driving a new era of growth and creativity that benefits both of our nations.”

    – Mary Ng, Minister of Export Promotion, International Trade and Economic Development

    “Canada is building an ecosystem where innovation can thrive while ensuring we are developing safe technologies. Canada has been working hard with France to make concrete progress in the development of a robust and responsible AI ecosystem and I look forward to furthering our collaboration as we showcase our progress at this global technology event.”

    – François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry

    Quick facts

    • The commercial relationship between Canada and France is underpinned by the Canada-EU Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), which has been provisionally applied since 2017. 

    • CETA creates opportunities for French and Canadian businesses by eliminating tariffs and increasing the mobility of business people, among other things.

    • Canada and France have worked collaboratively on several initiatives for the responsible use of AI including launching the Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence (GPAI) in June 2020.

    • The Government of Canada announced a Voluntary Code of Conduct on the Responsible Development and Management of Advanced Generative AI Systems in September 2023 and an AI Safety Institute.

    • The Viva Technology 2024 Canadian delegation of 60 organizations was the largest Canadian AI presence ever showcased at an international event.

    Associated links

    Contacts

    Huzaif Qaisar
    Press Secretary
    Office of the Minister of Export Promotion, International Trade and Economic Development
    343-575-8816
    Huzaif.Qaisar@international.gc.ca

    Media Relations Office
    Global Affairs Canada
    media@international.gc.ca
    Follow us on X (Twitter): @CanadaTrade
    Like us on Facebook: Canada’s international trade – Global Affairs Canada

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: HMCS Vancouver completes rearmament in Australia

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    September 26, 2024 – Broome, Australia – National Defence / Canadian Armed Forces

    His Majesty’s Canadian Ship (HMCS) Vancouver completed a forward rearmament in Australia on September 23, 2024, more than halfway through its six-month deployment to the Indo-Pacific region on Operation HORIZON.

    This forward rearmament with Australia was a first for the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN). The rearmament coordination and execution were nine months in the making, with planning having commenced in January 2024, and were made possible in part thanks to the close coordination and cooperation of the Australian Defence Force (ADF).

    Having the capability to rearm far from a Canadian homeport is a significant achievement. Accomplishing it with the support of our allies and partners demonstrates the strength of Canada’s relationships in the Indo-Pacific region. This rearmament process allows the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) to strengthen its interoperability and interchangeability through the sharing of information, techniques, and lessons learned that will allow for more agility moving forward.

    Since HMCS Vancouver’s deployment in June 2024, the ship has participated in three different multinational maritime exercises and expended munitions, including two vertically launched missiles at Exercise RIM OF THE PACIFIC (RIMPAC) 2024.

    Ammunition for the rearmament was transported from Canada to Darwin, Australia, via a Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) CC-177 Globemaster, where it was stored until the ship’s arrival. It was then transported to Broome, Australia, by the Australian Air Force and civilian contractors, and loaded onto the ship. During the rearmament itself, Canadian Forces Ammunition Depot staff members were on the ground, with members from the Australian Defence Industry (ADI) and the Royal Australian Navy to support.

    The logistics of facilitating a technical rearmament process occurring far from a Canadian Naval Base are complex and support from elements of the ADF and ADI were instrumental in the success of this mission.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Federal government invests in housing in Salt River First Nation

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    News release

    Fort Smith, Northwest Territories, September 26, 2024 — New homes in Salt River First Nation Reserve in Fort Smith are one step closer after an investment of $205,000 from the federal government was announced today by MP McLeod. This funding was used to purchase equipment to assist with the construction of new homes on reserve.

    Supporting the needs of the most vulnerable people in Canada is one of the goals of Reaching Home: Canada’s Homelessness Strategy. The funding announced today for the Salt River First Nation is being used to address territorial homelessness by helping to build dedicated housing for individuals and families experiencing or at imminent risk of homelessness.

    Quotes

    “The federal government is committed to working with communities and Indigenous partners to increase the availability of safe, inclusive housing options. By investing in housing and relevant supports, we can create stronger, healthier, and more resilient communities for generations to come.”

    Michael McLeod, Member of Parliament for Northwest Territories, on behalf of the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities

    “Developing our new reserve to meet the critical housing needs of our people is a high priority for SRFN. Chief and Council value the support from Canada as we collaborate  to build a better future for our nation”

    Elizabeth Westwell, Chief Executive Officer of Salt River First Nation

    Quick facts

    • Reaching Home is a community-based program aimed at preventing and reducing homelessness across Canada. This program provides funding and support to urban, Indigenous, territorial, rural, and remote communities to help them address their local homelessness needs.

    • Funding under this program is allocated to 64 Designated Communities (urban centres), three territorial capitals, 30 Indigenous communities, and rural and remote communities across Canada. The program also makes funding available to Indigenous partners to support distinctions-based approaches to homelessness services.

    • Through Reaching Home, the federal government is investing $4 billion over 9 years to address homelessness. Budget 2024 announced an additional $1 billion over four years from 2024-25 to 2027-28 to stabilize funding for Reaching Home. This includes $50 million to accelerate community-level reductions in homelessness.

    • Budget 2024 also announced $250 million over two years, starting in 2024-25, to address the urgent issue of encampments and unsheltered homelessness. This initiative envisions working with provinces and territories to cost-match federal investments.

    Associated links

    Contacts

    For more information (media only), please contact:

    Sofia Ouslis
    Communications Advisor
    Office of the Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities
    Sofia.ouslis@infc.gc.ca

    Media Relations
    Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada
    613-960-9251
    Toll free: 1-877-250-7154
    Email: media-medias@infc.gc.ca
    Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn
    Web: Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Speech by President Charles Michel at the ministerial meeting for key partners in support of UNRWA

    Source: Council of the European Union

    At the ministerial meeting on the role of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) in Gaza, the West Bank and the region, President Charles Michel stressed the EU’s role as a reliable partner.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: ASIA/HOLY LAND – Peace initiative: Cardinal Pizzaballa invites people to fast and pray for peace on October 7

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Thursday, 26 September 2024

    Patriarcato Latino di Gerusalemme

    Jerusalem (Agenzia Fides) – A day of prayer, penance and fasting to ask for the gift of peace in the Holy Land. Exactly one year after the renewed conflict between Israel and Palestine, the Catholic Patriarch, Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, invites people to take part in this initiative in a letter to the entire diocese of the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem.”The month of October is approaching, and with it the realization that for the past year the Holy Land, and not only, has been plunged into a vortex of violence and hatred never seen or experienced before. The intensity and impact of the tragedies we have witnessed in the past twelve months have deeply lacerated our conscience and our sense of humanity”, the Cardinal writes, calling “once again on those in authority and those who bear the grave responsibility of making decisions in this context, to a commitment to justice and respect for every person’s right to freedom, dignity and peace.””Therefore, I invite you to a day of prayer, fasting and penance on October 7 next, a date that has become symbolic of the drama we are experiencing. The month of October is also the Marian month and on October 7 we celebrate the memory of Mary Queen of the Rosary,” the Patriarch’s letter reads. “May each of us, with the rosary or in whatever form he or she sees fit, personally but better again in community, find a moment to pause and pray, and bring to the “merciful Father and God of all consolation” (2 Cor. 1:3), our desire for peace and reconciliation. Attached you will find a prayer proposal, that may be used freely.”Lord our God,Father of the Lord Jesus Christ,and Father of all mankind,Who in the cross of Your Sonand through the gift of His own life,at great cost You wished to destroythe wall of enmity and hostilitythat separates peoples and makes us enemies:Send into our heartsthe gift of the Holy Spirit,that He may purify us from every feelingof violence, hatred and revenge,enlighten us to understandthe irrepressible dignityof every human person,and inflame us to the point of consumptionfor a peaceful and reconciled worldin truth and justice,in love and freedom.Almighty and eternal God,in Your hands are the hopes of menand the rights of every people:Assist with Your wisdom those who govern us,so that, with Your help,they will become sensitive to the sufferings of the poorand of those who suffer the consequencesof violence and war;may they promote the common good and lasting peacein our regionand throughout the earth.Virgin Mary, Mother of Hope,obtain the gift of peacefor the Holy Land that gave birth to youand for the whole world. Amen.(Agenzia Fides, 26/9/2024)
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    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: ASIA/BANGLADESH – Apostolic Nuncio on the situation of Christians and aid for Rohingya refugees (with the help of the Pope)

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Thursday, 26 September 2024

    by Fabio BerettaDhaka (Agenzia Fides) – “The situation in Bangladesh”, where Christians represent only 0.30% of the population, “is very delicate. In general, Christians live in a peaceful context, but there have also been cases of harassment by their neighbors,” said Archbishop Kevin Randall, Apostolic Nuncio in Bangladesh since 2023, interviewed by Fides after his recent meeting with the Chief Advisor to the interim government. He spoke to Fides about the country’s society and the commitment and support of the local Church and of Pope Francis for Rohingya refugees.What is the situation in Bangladesh after the recent protests and social unrest?The situation in Bangladesh is very delicate. With a transitional government, some wonder when there will be elections. Others want to rewrite the constitution. Still others say that a transitional government does not have the power to rewrite the Constitution. In the meantime, citizen violence dominates the country and the rule of law is limited.How are Christian communities experiencing this historic moment?In general, Christians live in a relatively peaceful context, but there have also been cases of harassment by their neighbors. The police are powerless. After Sheik Hasina left the country, many officials became afraid and went into hiding. They took off their uniforms to wear civilian clothes and stopped going to work.Do Christian communities have special expectations compared to the rest of the population?Yes, the Christian community hopes that the transitional government will protect minorities during this transitional period. Christians’ villages are under threat because there are people who want to take over their land, even if they belong to their own ethnic group. Many citizens, whether Christian, Buddhist or Hindu, are treated as undesirables, “as if they were foreigners,” although they are not. The Constitution declares Bangladesh a secular state with one official religion: Islam. However, there are some who confuse the phrase “official State religion” with the idea that “minorities do not belong here” and that the country is “an Islamic State.”During the meeting with Muhammad Yunus, Chief Advisor to the interim government, the need to “protect” minorities was raised. Where does this concern come from?According to the 2022 census, Christians in Bangladesh make up 0.30% (about 500,000 believers) of the population. There have been cases of threats against villages, houses and especially schools. In many Catholic schools, there have been attempts at intimidation, with several teachers threatened with expulsion. Some Muslims reported to the school administration that their children would dress in a certain way in the future, especially if they were girls. However, wearing the burqa violates our uniform regulations. With Muhammad Yunus, I raised issues that concern Christians, but also Buddhists and Hindus. One must not forget that the Hindu minority is about 8%. Many of their temples have been destroyed and their shops burned down. And the Chief of the interim government agreed that all minorities must be protected and promised that he would try to create a law that can bring order.Recently, the establishment of a body for interreligious dialogue between the Holy See and the scholars of Islam in Bangladesh was proposed. How was this idea received?The idea of having an interreligious dialogue is not mine. The Dicastery for Interreligious Dialogue asked for it in a letter years ago, when Cardinal Jean-Louis Tauran was the head of the then Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue. Tauran himself spoke about it with former Prime Minister Sheik Hasina during one of his visits here in Bangladesh. I have already raised this idea with Sheik Hasina, and recently I have also asked Muhammed Yunus and his team to think about this possibility in concrete terms. The concept has been well received, but I think they have other concerns at the moment.Are there already concrete steps towards this project?No, but we can propose them. But we cannot force them. Unlike in the United Arab Emirates, where Pope Francis signed the document on fraternity, or in Indonesia, where the Pope recently signed a new document on tolerance and praised the “tunnel of friendship” that connects the cathedral with the mosque in Jakarta, interreligious dialogue does not find much support in Bangladesh, even if it takes place at the level of academic discussions.Regarding humanitarian aid for the Rohingya refugees, Mohammed Yden has reportedly asked the Vatican for support. How can this request be met?The Chief Advisor of the interim government did not directly ask for the Holy See’s help, as has been reported in various media. He asked for the Holy See’s support in the reforms he and his government want to implement, but not for financial help, including for the Rohingya.It was the one who asked on behalf of the Pope to continue to help and protect the Rohingya. I explained that the Catholic Church’s Caritas organization has been continuously helping the displaced since 2017, but that funds are decreasing. Before I traveled to Bangladesh, Pope Francis asked me not to forget the Rohingya. These refugees have experienced violence in their own country and came to Bangladesh to ask for help. But unfortunately, the Rohingya are considered by the local population as an ethnic and religious group that belongs to “this country”, Bangladesh.Cardinal Patrick D’Rozario and I paid them an official visit. The living conditions are very difficult. Children and young people do not receive an education. In addition, by law, 25 percent of our aid must go to the Bengali community. However, I am happy to announce that the Pope is sending further financial aid. This gesture of his will help many. (Agenzia Fides, 26/9/2024)
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    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kean Constituent Services Return Over $10 Million to NJ-07 Residents

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07)

    (September 26, 2024) BERNARDSVILLE, NJ – Today, Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07) announced that his casework team has returned more than $10,012,316 to constituents. 

    Since the office opened in January of 2023, Congressman Kean and his team have closed over 2,730 constituent cases, representing over $10,012,316 dollars returned back to New Jerseyans in the 7th Congressional District. From the beginning of Congressman Kean’s term in office, Team Kean has helped constituents save money and obtain benefits from the VA, IRS, Social Security Administration, and other federal agencies. The top three groups of people served are seniors, veterans, and families. 

    “$10,000,000 back to constituents is an incredible milestone that demonstrates the positive impact of the work we do to help our fellow New Jerseyans,” said Congressman Kean. “I am committed to serving my district to ensure every constituent receives the benefits and assistance to which they are entitled.” 

    Below are testaments from constituents who have received assistance from Team Kean with their federal agencies. 

    “The staff was very helpful through the process and they were reassuring. I appreciate the great assistance!!” -Payal from Flemington  

    “Thank you to the Congressman Kean’s office for your help with expediting my EAD! It was expedited so quickly and truly appreciate your help. I was also very pleasantly surprised by the customer service on the phone. It was great there were no automated phone systems and I was able to reach a rep right away and they were very courteous. Overall a very positive experience.” -Aparajitha from Somerville  

    “Congressman Keans staff was highly responsive and helpful in resolving my issue. They reached out numerous times and even when the problem was resolved they followed up to ensure all was well. Thank you for all of your help.” -Antonio from Ledgewood  

    “I emailed the office late in the evening after business hours and they responded around 9am the next morning. By 4:00pm that day, the social security worker called me and gave me her direct extension, apologized, and said she would process the application immediately. Congressman Kean’s office went above and beyond my expectations and I am truly grateful. It gives me great faith that he will do what he says he will do.” -Amber from Washington  

    Team Kean is always here to help. If you or someone you know needs help with a federal agency, please do not hesitate to contact the office. You can find more information here: https://kean.house.gov/services/help-federal-agency or call (908) 547-3307. Team Kean also hosts frequent Satellite Office Hours, the first week of every month. Make sure to follow Congressman Kean for updates on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram at @CongressmanKean. 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Mfume, Team Maryland Looks to the Future of the Chesapeake Bay After Current Multi-State Agreements Expire in 2025

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Kweisi Mfume (MD-07)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Congressman Kweisi Mfume, Senators Ben Cardin and Chris Van Hollen, and Congressmen Steny Hoyer, Dutch Ruppersberger, John Sarbanes, Jamie Raskin, and Glenn Ivey met Wednesday at the U.S. Capitol with senior representatives from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), U.S. Department of the Interior and Maryland Department of Natural Resources to discuss planning for the next stage of the Chesapeake Bay program and restoration efforts. This is a critical time for the Bay and the Chesapeake Bay Watershed Agreement, which was signed in 2014. Many of the goals and outcomes for the Bay had a target of 2025. As this date approaches, the Chesapeake Bay Program is determining how best to meet these goals and outcomes, incorporate new science and strategies, and strengthen the multi-state partnership.

    At Wednesday’s meeting, members of the Maryland delegation heard from key federal agency and state leaders working towards the next stage of the agreement. Leading the discussion was Adam Ortiz, who serves as the Administrator for EPA Region 3, which governs the Mid-Atlantic Region. In this role Administrator Ortiz is deeply involved in EPA’s role in the Chesapeake Bay Program. The delegation also heard from Department of Interior Deputy Assistant Secretary for Fish, Wildlife, and Parks, Matt Strickler, who serves at the Chesapeake Bay Program’s Principal’s Staff Committee Chair. In 2022, the Chesapeake Executive Council tasked its Principal’s Staff Committee with making recommendations for the future of the EPA Chesapeake Bay Program’s work. Representing senior state leadership was Maryland Department of Natural Resources Secretary Josh Kurtz, who directs Maryland’s role in the multi-state partnership and has deep expertise in the stakeholder community.

     The planning effort marked a milestone this summer when the Chesapeake Bay Program Beyond 2025 Steering Committee released its Beyond 2025 Draft Report and invited public feedback.

    “Marylanders across our state depend on a healthy Chesapeake Bay — the largest estuary in the United States — for food, recreation, and to make a living,” said Congressman Kweisi Mfume. “Continued collaboration at the federal, state, and local levels is vital to ensure this national treasure flourishes and effective restoration and conservation projects are enacted throughout the Bay and its ecosystem,” he concluded.

    “Team Maryland will always fight for the Bay. The Chesapeake Bay is a national treasure, and its restoration is a model for regional, multi-jurisdictional landscape stewardship. It is a model for other regions and other environmental protection efforts at many scales – and it is not simple,” said Senator Cardin. “As the Chesapeake Bay program is recalibrated for the next phase of action, we are committed to securing additional federal resources. We have high expectations for future results.”

    “We have a responsibility to protect the Chesapeake Bay – our people, our economy, and our environment depend on it. That’s why we’ve fought to deliver major federal investments to improve the Bay’s health – and while we know they’re making a real difference, the watershed states have more work to do to reach our restoration goals. As we near the Bay Agreement’s 2025 benchmark, we must take stock of the challenges faced in meeting its goals and work together to drive further progress toward a healthier Chesapeake Bay,” said Senator Van Hollen.

    “I’ve been proud to work with our delegation to support the health of the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries throughout my career – especially in the past decade since we secured the 2014 Chesapeake Bay Watershed Agreement,” Congressman Hoyer said. “I was pleased our delegation could meet with our partners in federal and state government to discuss the progress we’ve made toward fulfilling the various goals we laid out in that agreement and to assess the important work that remains. The Chesapeake Bay is the beating heart of Maryland and a true national treasure, and we will continue working to preserve it for generations to come.”

    “Ten years ago, we set aggressive but necessary goals to restore and protect our treasured Chesapeake Bay, which has taken an all-hands-on-deck approach from every level of government,” Congressman Ruppersberger said. “As we approach our deadline, we must ensure we are leveraging new technologies and sciences and collaborating with our other watershed states as effectively as possible. I appreciated this opportunity to come together and discuss our long and short-term strategies, especially as my own time in office draws to a close.”

    “Today’s discussions provided an opportunity to reaffirm our collective vision for the future of the Chesapeake Bay. It is imperative that the next phase of watershed restoration is centered around achieving goals and outcomes that reflect the current, best available science to ensure the health of our communities, the vitality of our region and a sustainable future for Bay ecosystems and natural resources. We look forward to sustained collaboration with federal, state and local government partners as we continue to support Beyond 2025 planning,” said Congressman Sarbanes.

    “Team Maryland is united in our efforts to restore and protect the Chesapeake Bay, a treasured natural resource and cornerstone of our local ecosystem,” said Congressman Raskin. “I’m grateful to our EPA and Maryland state government partners for their continued collaboration with the Maryland Congressional delegation to preserve the Bay for generations to come.”

    “Protecting the Chesapeake Bay is everyone’s responsibility.  We are grateful for our longtime Maryland advocates now on the federal and state level, Adam Ortiz, and Josh Kurtz, respectively.  Local, state, and federal partnerships can help keep our national treasure, the Chesapeake Bay, available for all to appreciate and partake in.  Crabbing, fishing, sailing and otherwise being active in and around its shores are activities we want to cherish well into the future and our actions today will make sure that our kids and grandkids can benefit from the Bay in their tomorrow’s,” said Congressman Ivey.

    “It is not an accident that the Bay recently received its highest grade in 22 years. Through historic investments and coordination, we’re seeing progress and momentum in states and sectors that were previously lagging,” said EPA Regional Administrator Ortiz. “The Biden-Harris Administration is making good on its promise to accelerate the Bay effort.”

    “The Moore-Miller administration thanks the Maryland congressional delegation for their continued strong leadership on the restoration of the Chesapeake Bay. Their efforts have resulted in improvements in water quality and the health of the ecosystem,” said Maryland Department of Natural Resources Secretary Josh Kurtz. “It was an honor today to discuss our plans to focus our work post-2025 on rebuilding habitat, creating resiliency in the face of climate change, and charting a new future for the Chesapeake Bay.”

    The Chesapeake Executive Councilconsists of the governors of the six watershed states, the mayor of the District of Columbia, the chair of the Chesapeake Bay Commission and the administrator of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. It establishes the policy direction for the restoration and protection of the Chesapeake Bay.

    The Principals Staff Committee (PSC) acts as the policy advisors to the Executive Council, accepting items for Council consideration and approval, and setting agendas for Council meetings. Individual members of the PSC arrange and provide briefings to their principals, the Agreement signatories. The PSC also provides policy and program direction to the Management Board.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Mfume, Ruppersberger, Bipartisan Group Secures SNAP Theft Reimbursement in Stop-Gap Funding Bill

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Kweisi Mfume (MD-07)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Victims of food stamp theft will continue to be reimbursed thanks to a provision in a stop-gap funding bill secured by a bipartisan group of lawmakers led by Congressman C.A. Dutch Ruppersberger. H.R. 9747, the Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act of 2025, passed in the U.S. House of Representatives today in a 341-82 vote, keeping the government funded – and Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits flowing – through December 20, 2024. It is expected to be taken up in the U.S. Senate quickly.

    Last month, Ruppersberger, along with Representatives Kweisi Mfume (D-Maryland), Mike Lawler (R-New York),  Lori Chavez-DeRemer (R-Oregon), James P. McGovern (D-Massachusetts), Dan Goldman (D-New York), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-Pennsylvania), Anthony D’Esposito (R-New York), Marc Molinaro (R-New York), Brittany Pettersen (D-Colorado) and Grace Meng (D-New York) sent a letter to Congressional leadership urging them to allow victims of SNAP theft to continue to be reimbursed from federal and state coffers.

    Reports of SNAP theft – in which perpetrators use skimming devices to steal SNAP benefits distributed on electronic debit cards (EBT) – are skyrocketing across the nation. States are currently required to replace stolen benefits under a measure included in the 2023 omnibus funding bill passed by Congress at the end of 2022. But that provision was set to expire on September 30.

    “It is appalling that Americans are being targeted at record rates in major SNAP benefit theft. These sickening crimes are carried out against veterans, families, low-income workers, children, the elderly, and the disabled – all of whom are just trying to put food on their table,” said Congressman Kweisi Mfume (MD-07). “Our letter represented a unified effort, across the political aisle, to bring justice to victims in all our respective Congressional Districts. Today’s triumph was a culmination of fierce collaboration between both Democrats and Republicans and boldly fighting for justice on behalf of all households that rely on SNAP,” he concluded. 

    “I want to thank my colleagues on both sides of the aisle who recognize the dire straits that SNAP theft leaves its victims, which often include veterans, families, low-income workers, children, the elderly and the disabled,” said Congressman Ruppersberger (MD-02). “While Congress continues to work toward its long-term and strategic spending bills, I am relieved to know these innocent constituents will not lose their primary source of healthy food.”

    “Ensuring that SNAP recipients who have their benefits stolen are made whole is my top priority and is deeply important to New York families,” said Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17). “That’s why I joined colleagues in both parties and chambers to introduce the Enhanced Cybersecurity for SNAP Act to protect these programs from fraud, and it’s why I have been adamant about the need to include SNAP protections in FY25’s appropriations. I was pleased to see these provisions in the CR being voted on this week. We must complete our appropriations work while protecting the most vulnerable in our society.”

    “I was proud to join this bipartisan group of my colleagues in urging congressional leaders to prevent critical SNAP theft reimbursements from ending,” said Congresswoman Lori Chavez-DeRemer (OR-05). “I’m glad our message was heard and an extension was included in this stopgap funding bill. I’ll keep working to ensure victims of SNAP theft are protected.”

    “I am proud to have helped secure an extension that will allow states to use existing federal funding to reimburse vulnerable victims of SNAP theft so that families in need can put food on the table,” Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10) said. “SNAP theft can be devastating for working families and these reimbursements are a critical lifeline that allows working families to make ends meet. I will continue fighting alongside my colleagues to ensure that states retain this authority when Congress passes its final budget at the end of the year.”

    “Families that rely on SNAP to put food on the table each day should never go hungry, especially as a result of their benefits being stolen,” said Congresswoman Grace Meng (NY-06), a senior member of the House Appropriations Committee. “That’s why I fought to help over 36,000 New Yorkers recover more than $17.5 million in stolen SNAP benefits. I’m glad to see that this provision was included and extended in this critical government funding bill. I’ve also been fighting to make EBT benefit cards more secure to deter scams, and I’m excited that this bill includes language that will hopefully lead to more secure EBT cards. Many beneficiaries in Queens and across the country continue to be targeted by these scams, and we must continue fighting for the families in our communities experiencing the greatest needs.”

    “Because of our bipartisan push, victims of SNAP theft will continue to be protected through the SNAP Reimbursement Extension,” said Congressman Marc Molinaro (NY-19). “I’m proud to have helped lead the effort to ensure Upstate New York families who rely on SNAP benefits always have access to the meals they deserve.”

    “Thousands of Bucks and Montgomery County residents depend on SNAP to put food on their tables, which is why I was proud to join my colleagues in the critical fight to prevent SNAP theft reimbursements from ending. This common-sense reimbursement provision is essential to safeguarding the integrity of the SNAP program and ensuring families in my community and nationwide who have fallen victim to SNAP theft can quickly recover their benefits. Today’s victory is a powerful reminder that when we unite across party lines, we can achieve meaningful change and stand firm in our commitment to uplift our communities and safeguard the well-being of those who need it most,” said Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-1).

    “SNAP recipients who had their food benefits stolen—through no fault of their own, I would add—should not be kicked while they’re down by an indifferent government that tells them ‘too bad’ and leaves them to fend for themselves,” said Congressman Jim McGovern (MA-02). “Especially when the average SNAP benefit is barely over $2 per person, per meal. We’re talking about people who rely on these benefits to feed themselves and their families. When they are stolen, people go hungry. I’m glad that because of our continued advocacy, Congress is making sure that food insecure families are protected through the end of the year.”

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Lauren Boebert Introduces Legislation to Promote Private Sector Competition in Microtransit Services

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Lauren Boebert (Colorado, 3)

    Washington, D.C. — U.S. Congresswoman Lauren Boebert (CO-03) released the following statement after introduction of H.R. 9756, legislation that ensures private sector competition in microtransit services: 

    The “Private Sector Competition in Microtransit Act” would require any state or local government that receives federal funds to operate microtransit services enter into a contract with a private entity for the operation of such services.

    “Microtransit is a critical service, especially for our elderly and disabled citizens who often face barriers to accessing traditional public transportation. These small-scale, on-demand services provide a vital lifeline to individuals who need to get to medical appointments, grocery stores, or simply visit loved ones. Unfortunately, government-run microtransit services are putting private-sector businesses at a disadvantage, often driving them out of the market. This results in higher costs for taxpayers—2 to 3 times more than what the private sector can offer—and less innovation and efficiency. My legislation will level the playing field by encouraging private-sector participation and reducing government interference. This will not only lead to better services for those who depend on microtransit, but it will also ensure that our taxpayers’ dollars are used more effectively,” said Congresswoman Boebert.

    “We are grateful for Rep. Lauren Boebert’s introduction of H.R. 9756, which creates opportunities for private sector small businesses through microtransit initiatives. Promoting microtransit will empower local small businesses to thrive, improve transportation access, and strengthen our economy. This legislation makes sense for local communities in Douglas County and across Colorado, and we look forward to working on its passage with Congresswoman Boebert.” –Joint Statement by Douglas County Commissioners Abe Laydon, George Teal, and Lora Thomas

    “I have been deeply encouraged by Representative Boebert’s willingness to take meaningful action on issues of importance to Douglas County,” said Douglas County Commissioner Abe Laydon.

    “Rep. Boebert’s understanding of our industry’s challenges is evident in this important legislation. Small businesses, especially in the transportation sector, were devastated by the COVID-19 lockdowns, where they lost 90% of their business. Many were forced to dip into their retirement savings just to stay afloat. The biggest competitors to small businesses should not be the federal government. This bill ensures that the private sector continues to thrive and provide these essential services,” said Bill Yuhnke, President of The Transportation Alliance, in a press release.

    Full text of Rep. Boebert’s Private Sector Competition in Microtransit Act of 2024 can be found HERE.

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    For updates, subscribe to Congresswoman Boebert’s newsletter here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: How one founder’s design background is helping to rethink EV charging in cities

    Source: World Economic Forum (video statements)

    After the pandemic, Tiya Gordon realized the next global crisis would be climate based. To that end, she’s co-founded It’s Electric, a curbside solution that takes power from buildings, sidestepping the currently time-consuming permitting and installation process that slows the growth of charging stations in cities around the world. She shares how her design background has helped her be clear-eyed on objectives, identify fresh approaches and break down stubborn barriers, all to speed the change needed for the energy transition.  To learn more: Guest: https://www.itselectric.us/Report: Scaling Investment in EV Charging: A Policy Roadmap for Cities (https://www.weforum.org/publications/scaling-investment-in-ev-charging-a-policy-roadmap-for-cities/) Related podcasts: An energy company is building the world’s largest airplane. Here’s why: https://www.weforum.org/podcasts/meet-the-leader/episodes/mark-lundstrom-radia-climate-change/ 7 top innovators share strategies that drive cutting edge solutions: https://www.weforum.org/podcasts/meet-the-leader/episodes/top-innovator-strategies-tactics/

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UUylbTjPiD4

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Klobuchar Statement on Federal Approval of Minnesota Broadband Infrastructure Plan

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Minnesota Amy Klobuchar
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), a senior member of the Senate Commerce Committee, announced that the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) at the U.S. Department of Commerce approved Minnesota’s plan for broadband infrastructure deployment. This development advances Minnesota to the next step in their planned affordable broadband rollout across the state.
    Klobuchar’s Accessible, Affordable Internet for All Act was incorporated into the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and was the basis for the significant federal funding to Minnesota for expanding high-speed internet access.
    “Internet access is necessary for everything from education to healthcare, not to mention for keeping in touch with friends and family. However, many households in Minnesota currently don’t have a reliable broadband connection,” said Klobuchar. “That is why I fought to secure this game changing investment that will deliver affordable and reliable high-speed internet to everyone in Minnesota. With the approval of Minnesota’s rollout plan, we are one step closer to connecting every corner of our state.” 
    Klobuchar has long led efforts to expand broadband access, support rural broadband, and bridge the digital divide.
    In June 2023, Klobuchar announced that the U.S. Department of Commerce had awarded major federal funding through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to bring reliable, affordable, high-speed internet access to every household in Minnesota. The Accessible, Affordable Internet for All Act, Klobuchar’s legislation with Former House Majority Whip Jim Clyburn (D-SC) to expand high-speed internet nationwide, served as the basis for the program created by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. 
    In March 2023, Klobuchar and Senators John Thune (R-SD), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), and Jerry Moran (R-KS) reintroduced bipartisan legislation to expand broadband access to rural communities. The Reforming Broadband Connectivity Act would strengthen funding mechanisms for the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) Universal Service Fund (USF), which promotes universal access to broadband and other telecommunications services. Currently, the USF is primarily funded through landline fees, disproportionately impacting seniors, who are more likely to use landlines than other Americans. 
    In February 2023, Klobuchar introduced bipartisan legislation with Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) to strengthen broadband access for rural communities. The Rural Broadband Protection Act would ensure that providers applying for federal funding can reliably deliver broadband to underserved, rural communities. 
    In July 2021, Klobuchar introduced bipartisan legislation with Senator Chuck Grassley (R-IA) to expand rural broadband access by streamlining the funding process and removing barriers for broadband connectivity in hard-to-serve rural areas.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hagerty, Kaine Applaud Senate Passage of Legislation to Honor Forgotten Heroes of the Holocaust

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Tennessee Bill Hagerty

    September 26, 2024

    Bipartisan legislation would award a Congressional Gold Medal honoring U.S. and foreign diplomats who risked their lives and careers to save Jews during the Holocaust
    WASHINGTON—United States Senators Bill Hagerty (R-TN) and Tim Kaine (D-VA) today applauded Senate passage of their Forgotten Heroes of the Holocaust Congressional Gold Medal Act (S. 91), a bill to honor 60 World War II-era diplomats from the United States and around the world who risked their careers and, in many instances, their lives to save others during the Holocaust. The Hagerty-Kaine legislation would posthumously award a Congressional Gold Medal collectively to these diplomats who took heroic actions to save Jews fleeing Nazi Germany, including issuing passports and travel visas and setting up safehouses and getaways to hide Jews from Nazi authorities. A version of this legislation led by Representatives Maria Elvira Salazar (R-FL-27) and Ritchie Torres (D-NY-15) passed the House of Representatives on June 11, 2024.
    “As U.S. Senator and former U.S. Ambassador to Japan, I applaud Senate passage of this bipartisan legislation to posthumously honor U.S. and foreign diplomats who risked their lives and careers to assist Jews who were fleeing Nazi tyranny during the Holocaust,” said Senator Hagerty. “During a time of unimaginable darkness in the world, these diplomats went above their official obligations and beyond the call of duty to save the lives of so many. Current and future generations of diplomats—and everyone else who hears their stories—can look to these men and women of courage and be inspired by their lives of heroism and sacrifice.”
    “These courageous diplomats from nations across the world took initiative and serious risks to save Jews in Nazi-occupied Europe. The Congressional Gold Medal is a small overdue gesture to honor righteous deeds in the most difficult times,” said Senator Kaine. “As living memory of the Holocaust fades with the passing of 80 years, it will soon be up to us to remember humanity’s capacity for evil alongside our capacity for empathy and courage. Senator Hagerty and I aren’t Jewish, but we led this legislation because the duty of remembrance isn’t on the Jewish community alone; it is on all of us.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: MSF scales up response in Lebanon as bombings continue News Sep 26, 2024

    Source: Doctors Without Borders –

    NEW YORK/BEIRUT, September 26, 2024 — Doctors Without Borders/Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) remains committed to providing aid to people in Lebanon as the conflict with Israel continues to escalate and people’s medical and humanitarian needs grow. 

    “On Monday morning at 6:30 a.m. we woke up to powerful strikes on mountains and valleys, shelling villages from Baalbek to Hermel,” said Maram Sukkariyeh, a health promotion supervisor with MSF. “All we could hear was the sound of ambulance sirens. We saw smoke with each strike, and the bombs were hitting very close to houses. The strikes in northern Bekaa have not stopped for three days now and the sounds of drones and jets never leave us.”

    MSF teams unload medical supplies and other essential items to support the needs of people affected by the escalation of violence.
    Lebanon 2024 © Salam Daoud/MSF

    According to Lebanon’s disaster risk management unit, more than 104,000 people have been displaced by the recent conflict—often quickly and without necessities like medications. Many are traumatized from losing homes and loved ones, including MSF’s own staff. In addition to medical support, people are in need of basic supplies like mattresses and hygiene products as the shelters and schools currently housing them were not prepared to accommodate so many people.

    The strikes in northern Bekaa have not stopped for three days now and the sounds of drones and jets never leave us.

    Maram Sukkariyeh, MSF health promotion supervisor

    “People who left their homes need all kinds of support,” Sukkariyeh said. “Everyone is scared and worried and no one knows where to seek safety. With every strike, people are losing their lives, including children. The future is unknown and deciding what to do is very difficult. Everyone seeks safety for their families and children.”

    To help fill some of the gaps, MSF teams are distributing supplies, running mobile health clinics, and stepping up mental health efforts. MSF mobile clinics recently visited two locations in Mount Lebanon where displaced people have taken shelter to provide medical and mental health consultations. MSF also donated essential items including mattresses, blankets, and hygiene kits to displaced people in eight sites in Saida and Tripoli. Additionally, MSF reopened its clinic in Baalbek-Hermel to provide patients with much-needed medications for chronic conditions. Mental health helplines run by MSF are receiving over 60 calls a day from people experiencing rising mental health needs.

    Smoke seen in Lebanon’s Bekaa valley following bombings.
    Lebanon 2024 © Salam Daoud/MSF

    MSF is gravely concerned about Israel’s bombing campaign in Lebanon, much of which is taking place in densely populated urban areas. An immediate de-escalation of hostilities is critical to prevent further suffering, injury, and loss of life.

    MSF is assessing people’s needs in order to scale up support and will continue to coordinate closely with partners and hospital networks as the situation develops. 

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI: Travis Credit Union Launches Generation Wealth at Benicia High School

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VACAVILLE, Calif., Sept. 26, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Travis Credit Union (TCU) unveiled Generation Wealth, its newly refreshed and rebranded award-winning, interactive youth financial education initiative, today at Benicia High School. Formerly known as Mad City Money, more than 13,000 students have attended the TCU program since its inception in 2009.

    Generation Wealth is aimed at empowering students with essential skills for successful money management throughout their lives. Through immersive scenarios, participants are tasked with navigating real-life situations that include jobs, salaries, bills, families, and credit scores, giving them a practical understanding of budgeting, saving, and financial decision-making.

    “Wealth means something different to Gen Z than it does to previous generations,” said Steward Pimienta, youth engagement officer at Travis Credit Union. “Each person has their own definition of wealth. We want to make sure all students feel empowered by their definition and comfortable building the foundation to reach their unique financial goals.”

    With expert guidance and discussions, Generation Wealth is designed to provide students with practical experience in managing real-life household budgets using the four pillars of financial wellness:

    • Plan: Employing a financial plan to make manageable decisions, stay on track and be prepared for the unexpected
    • Save: How to meet savings goals and be in control
    • Spend: Using financial tools to manage everyday spending
    • Borrow: Learning how to get the lowest interest rates to stay on budget

    “Generation Wealth is a reimagination of our successful and long-running ‘Mad City Money’ program,” said Jennifer Victor, vice president of branch sales and service at Travis Credit Union. “The new name reflects the ideals of this generation and the concept of generating prosperity. It emphasizes that anyone can achieve their life goals with financial literacy and healthy spending habits.”

    In conjunction with this impactful program, Mayor Steve Young will officially proclaim September 26 as Generation Wealth Day in Benicia, recognizing the importance of youth financial literacy.

    “We’re thankful for our ongoing partnership with Travis Credit Union and the work they do to emphasize the importance of financial literacy for our high school students. Thank you to Joan Westerman for bringing this partnership to Benicia Unified School District to equip and empower our students with the skills they will need to make informed decision and achieve their goals,” remarked Trudy Barrington, chief business officer at Benicia Unified School District.

    For more information about the Generation Wealth program or to get involved, please visit https://traviscu.org/generationwealth or email TCUCommunityRelations@traviscu.org.

    About Travis Credit Union
    Travis Credit Union, based in Vacaville, Calif., has been recognized at the federal, state and local levels for its longstanding financial education and financial advocacy efforts. In 2022, TCU was once again selected as a Best-In-State Credit Union by Forbes. It has also earned the U.S. Air Force Distinguished Credit Union of the Year award in recent years. Founded in 1951 on Travis Air Force Base, TCU today serves 12 Northern California counties. It is the twelfth largest credit union in California, with 250,000 members and $5 billion in assets. Learn more about our mission at traviscu.org.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: GGI, co-founded by MixMarvel and Yeeha! Games, showcasing Major Partnerships and GameFi Innovations at Token2049

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, Sept. 26, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Following its successful appearances at Japan’s WebX and Korea Blockchain Week (KBW), GGI, a Web3 group co-founded by MixMarvel and Yeeha! Games, continued to make waves at Token2049 Singapore, one of the largest blockchain conferences of the year. With exciting new partnerships and a strong presence across major side events, GGI demonstrated its ongoing commitment to leading innovation in the Web3 gaming sector.

    Expanding the Ecosystem with New Partners

    At Token2049, GGI unveiled new ecosystem partners, including ArkForge and SOMSOC, further solidifying its position as a key player in the blockchain gaming space. GGI also held a series of game-related side events in collaboration with some of the most influential ecosystems today, including LINE NEXT and TON, where the future of Web3 gaming was explored in depth. These collaborations highlight GGI’s growing influence and its role in bringing together key players in the industry.

    A New Wave of Games on the Horizon

    Since its inception, GGI has consistently pushed the boundaries of what’s possible in Web3 gaming, achieving significant commercial and business expansion. At Token2049, GGI introduced its latest gaming lineup to partners and players, with titles like SimDunk, which recently launched its Pioneer Test, and upcoming games such as Yokai Odyssey and ATMAN. These titles form part of GGI’s broader publishing strategy, which includes 7 Telegram mini-games, 5 large-scale midcore games, and collaborations with 10 indie studios. Each of these games represents GGI’s commitment to offering diverse, high-quality content that bridges the gap between Web2 and Web3 gaming communities.

    Leading at Token2049’s Premier Events

    As a sponsor, GGI took center stage at the InnoBlock Summit, one of the largest side events of Token2049, hosted by the Asia Blockchain Gaming Alliance (ABGA). Alongside over 100 industry leaders, GGI explored application-layer opportunities in the Web3 space, sharing the stage with pioneers like Catizen, Mythical Games, and Seraph to discuss what it takes to succeed in today’s competitive Web3 gaming landscape. Notably, Nancy, CEO of Yeeha! Games and co-founder of GGI, delivered a keynote at the summit, showcasing Yeeha!’s platform and its mission to become the “Epic Games of Web3.” Attendees were particularly excited about Yeeha!’s upcoming AI-driven gaming solutions, including a natively trained GPT that promises to revolutionize Web3 gaming experiences.

    Co-Hosting for Industry Insights and Collaboration

    GGI also co-hosted a major event for Web3 Gaming Builders and VCs alongside LINE NEXT, Kaia, and ABGA, focusing on how to empower the growing APAC gaming community. During the event, GGI highlighted its comprehensive ecosystem, which spans game incubation, publishing, and infrastructure development. By showcasing premium content and impressive growth metrics, GGI reinforced its vision to create high-quality, engaging gaming experiences that bring Web2 players into the Web3 space.

    Spotlight at the Open Art Conference

    Another key highlight for GGI at Token2049 was its participation in the Open Art Conference, hosted by TON Society, TONX, and Blum at the National Gallery Singapore. With over 8,000 registered participants, this event celebrated TON’s growing ecosystem, where GGI has been an early and active supporter. GGI shared insights on how TON, often seen as a dark horse in the GameFi sector, is poised to have a profound impact on the industry. Additionally, GGI introduced the exciting SOMSOC x Yeeha! collaboration, which includes the HOUSEBOY art collection and the cyber-themed basketball game SimDunk, which officially launched its Pioneer Test on the day of the event, receiving an enthusiastic reception from the gaming community.

    GGI’s Commitment to the Future of Web3 Gaming

    Token2049 Singapore solidified GGI’s reputation as a trailblazer in Web3 gaming, as the company continues to build sustainable partnerships and deliver premium gaming experiences. Amid the challenges and opportunities in this fast-evolving industry, GGI remains dedicated to injecting vitality into the blockchain gaming sector by offering innovative and engaging content for both Web2 and Web3 players.

    With its continued growth and collaboration with top industry partners, GGI is set to shape the future of Web3 gaming for years to come. As it looks ahead to new game launches, partnerships, and innovations, GGI is well-positioned to lead the next wave of GameFi success.

    About GGI

    GGI, the leading Web3 group co-founded by MixMarvel and Yeeha! Games, serving as the definitive gateway to gaming for builders and mass players with cutting-edge infrastructure, platform and top-tier investment, incubation, and publishing services.

    Affiliated Brands:

    • ️MixMarvel
    • ️Yeeha
    • ️Rangers Protocol

    GGI Pillar Services:

    • Investment
    • Content Incubation
    • Game Publishing & Distribution Platform
    • Infrastructure

    Contact Details:
    Connie Wu
    Marketing Manager
    connie.w@yeehagames.com

    ArkForge
    Fay Ying, Co-Founder
    fay@arkforge.gg

    MixMarvel
    Alina Zarelua
    alina@mixmarvel.com

    SOMSOC Gallery
    dongshan@somsoc.jp

    Disclaimer: This content is provided by Yeeha! Games. The statements, views and opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the content provider. The information provided in this press release is not a solicitation for investment, nor is it intended as investment advice, financial advice, or trading advice. It is strongly recommended you practice due diligence, including consultation with a professional financial advisor, before investing in or trading cryptocurrency and securities. Please conduct your own research and invest at your own risk.

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/cc7c6033-cce5-4389-963e-139871a16de0

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/2633b4ef-ca1f-4b8b-b1fe-2a585cbf32a7

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Pennsylvania Man Sentenced to 25 Years in Prison for Transporting a Minor with the Intent to Engage in Criminal Sexual Activity

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

    SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – John Oathout, age 54, of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, was sentenced on Friday to 25 years in prison for transporting a minor with the intent to engage in criminal sexual activity.  United States Attorney Carla B. Freedman and Craig L. Tremaroli, Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), made the announcement.

    As part of his guilty plea, Oathout admitted that after a romantic relationship ended with the victim’s mother, the victim’s mother permitted the defendant to take her daughter on overnight trips to Virginia and New York.  During the week of Thanksgiving 2021, the defendant arranged to pick up the 5-year-old child from her home in Delaware and transport her to a hotel in Kingston, New York, where he subjected the child to sexual contact. 

    In addition to sentencing Oathout to serve 25 years in prison, Chief United States District Judge Brenda K. Sannes also imposed a 20-year term of supervised release, which Oathout will begin serving after he is released from prison, at which time Oathout will also be required to register as a sex offender.

    The FBI’s Albany Division Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force investigated this case.  The Task Force includes members of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies. Assistant United States Attorney Carling Dunham prosecuted the case as part of Project Safe Childhood.

    Launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice, Project Safe Childhood is led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS).  Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locates, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Mokfok Mañaina Reinterment

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    DEDEDO, Guam  –  

    On Sept. 28, 2024, the Guam State Historic Preservation Office will host a reinterment ritual aboard Skaggs Urban Training Complex, Marine Corps Base Camp Blaz (formally Andersen South). The ritual will include the reinterment of ancestral bone fragments found during cultural resource investigations in Mokfok, Dededo.

    During the construction of the Urban Training Complex, archeologists discovered five sites each with at least one burial dating to the Latte Period. All CHamoru burials at Mokfok were preserved in place, and construction projects were redesigned to avoid burial sites.

    At the site of the reinterment ceremony, archeologists discovered 14 unique grave pits, which include at least one infant and multiple children, adolescents, and adults. The site is preliminarily dated to the Latte Period.

    All bone fragments discovered outside of a burial context will be wrapped in muslin and placed in woven baskets before being reinterred amongst the burials.

    In 2021 and 2024, the Guam State Historic Preservation Office hosted three separate cultural rituals to honor the ancestors laid to rest at Sabånan Fadang and rebury the discovered sites at the Camp Blaz main cantonment area.

    Members of the media are asked to RSVP attendance with the COMMSTRAT Office at diann.rosenfeld.mil@usmc.mil no later than Friday, Sept. 27, 11 a.m.

    Media members who RSVP will be sent a pin to the meet up location at the entrance of the Skaggs Urban Training Complex. Media members are asked to arrive Saturday, Sept. 28 no later than 9:30 a.m. for escort to the ceremony site.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Bay Roberts — Stolen vehicle crashes in pond in Clarke’s Beach, Bay Roberts RCMP investigates

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Bay Roberts RCMP is investigating the theft of a truck that occurred last night in Clarke’s Beach. The stolen vehicle was recovered from a nearby body of water.

    Shortly before 8:00 p.m., Bay Roberts RCMP received a report of theft of a truck in Clarke’s Beach. The vehicle, a black 2008 Chevrolet Silverado, was stolen from the parking lot of the post office while the operator was inside the business.

    Approximately ten minutes later, Bay Roberts RCMP received a report that a truck had departed the road and entered a body of water in Clarke’s Beach. An occupant of the truck swam to shore and was picked up by an unknown male operating an all-terrain vehicle. Both individuals departed prior to police arrival.

    An extensive search of the area and the water was conducted with no other occupants located. The truck was recovered from the pond and was confirmed as being the stolen truck.

    The investigation is continuing.

    Bay Roberts RCMP is looking to identify the individual involved in the theft of the truck, as well as the ATV operator, and asks the public to check for any available surveillance footage that may assist with this investigation.

    Anyone having information about either of these incidents is asked to contact Bay Roberts RCMP at 709-786-2118. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers: #SayItHere 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), visit http://www.nlcrimestoppers.com or use the P3Tips app.

    Bay Roberts RCMP thanks those involved in the search of the water last evening, including Avalon North Wolverines Search and Rescue and Bay De Grave Fire Department.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Convicted Felon Sentenced for the Second Time in One Year After Failing to Appear in Court While on Supervised Release

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime News

    Salt Lake City, Utah – Thomas Fairbanks, 71, of Cache County, Utah, was sentenced today to an additional 30 days’ imprisonment for failure to appear in court for a sentencing hearing in a securities fraud case. The one month sentence will be served consecutively to his 27 months’ securities fraud sentence, which was imposed in April 2024. 

    According to court documents and statements made at the change of plea hearing, on May 24, 2023, Fairbanks failed to appear in front of U.S. District Court Judge Jill N. Parrish for his sentencing in a 2019 securities fraud case, after he was convicted by a jury on August 30, 2022. After his failure to appear, a warrant was issued for his arrest, and he was later arrested in February 2024. According to court documents in the 2019 case, the defendant was convicted of a securities fraud scheme in connection with his fraudulent company SupplyLine Partners. As part of the scheme, Fairbanks created a pitch deck to advertise the entity, ran seminars to find investors, and ultimately convinced at least two individuals to invest with him in his fake entity. SupplyLine was never a registered company nor was Fairbanks authorized to sell securities.

    Fairbanks took victims’ money and did not invest as he said he would, never returned the money and did not pay out the promised 6% interest. In total, Fairbanks defrauded two victims out of $270,232.

    The case was investigated jointly by the Utah Division of Securities and the FBI Salt Lake City Field Office.

    Assistant United States Attorneys Ruth Hackford-Peer and Kevin Sundwall of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah prosecuted the case. 
     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Ra Medical Systems, Inc. & Physicians Pay Over $8 Million to Resolve False Claims Act Allegations of Illegal Kickbacks

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

    DETROIT – United States Attorney Dawn N. Ison announced today a series of three civil settlements, totaling over $8 million, related to, among other allegations, kickbacks that medical device company Ra Medical Systems, Inc. (Ra Medical), paid to various physicians across the country related to Ra Medical’s DABRA laser.

    Ison was joined in the announcement by Special Agent in Charge Mario M. Pinto of the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG), Chicago Regional Office, Cheyvoryea Gibson, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Detroit Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Special Agent in Charge Patrick J. Hegarty, Department of Defense Office of Inspector General, Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS), Northeast Field Office. 

    Ra Medical was a medical device company that was formerly headquartered in Carlsbad, California.  From 2017-2019, Ra Medical manufactured and sold a device known as the DABRA Laser.  The settlement with Ra Medical resolves the following alleged violations of the False Claims Act:

    • Ra Medical marketed the DABRA Laser for use in atherectomies, a procedure whereby plaque is mechanically removed from occluded blood vessels in patients suffering from peripheral artery disease. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration, however, had not approved the DABRA Laser for use in atherectomy procedures.
    • Additionally, Ra Medical knowingly marketed the DABRA Laser despite product performance issues causing frequent calibration and overheating problems, which posed a risk to physicians and patients, and prompted a recall in August 2019.
    • Ra Medical also knowingly offered and paid illegal remuneration to certain physicians to induce them to use the DABRA Laser in violation of the Federal Anti-Kickback Statute. The United States contends that the illegal remuneration consisted of cash payments and fees paid in connection with purported training events and consulting services. The United States further contends that RMS tracked utilization of its high-volume physician customers using an internal document titled “Who Deserve[] Love,” which was used to identify physicians that RMS should target with offers of improper remuneration. Two of the recipients of the alleged kickback payments were Elias Kassab, M.D. (Kassab), of Dearborn, Michigan, and David Allie, M.D. (Allie), of Lafayette, Louisiana.

    The Federal Anti-Kickback Statute prohibits offering or paying anything of value to induce referrals of items or services covered by Medicare and other federally funded programs.  The statute is intended to ensure that a medical provider’s judgment is not compromised by improper financial incentives.

    Under the terms of the agreement with Ra Medical, which was entered into pursuant to DOJ’s inability to pay settlement guidelines and was executed in December 2020, Ra Medical paid $2.5 million up front and would pay up to $28 million more if future financial contingencies were met.  In January 2023, Ra Medical paid an additional $5 million, after its reverse merger with Catheter Precision, Inc., triggered one of the contingencies.

    The settlement with Ra Medical remained under seal while the United States continued its investigation into Kassab and Allie, among others, who were alleged to have received improper kickbacks.  In a separate settlement, Kassab and two of his companies agreed to pay $450,000 to resolve the allegations against them.  In the third settlement, Allie and his consulting company agreed to pay $250,000 to resolve the allegations against them.

    “The United States will not allow doctors to hold out their hands expecting to be paid to use and promote a device,” said U.S. Attorney Ison. “The millions of people who depend on our federal healthcare programs deserve and expect medical decisions untainted by kickbacks, and this settlement reflects our commitment to pursuing not just the companies that pay illegal kickbacks, but also the physicians who willingly extract and accept them.”

    “The payment of kickbacks to induce referrals can undermine the trust in our nation’s providers and result in costly reductions to our federal health care programs,” said Special Agent in Charge Mario M. Pinto of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General. “We will continue to work diligently with our law enforcement partners to ensure the appropriate use of taxpayer dollars.”

    “Healthcare services are being unlawfully influenced by medical providers engaging in criminal kickback schemes, significantly impacting programs such as Medicare and Medicaid,” said Cheyvoryea Gibson, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Michigan. “Our office is fully committed to investigating and holding accountable those individuals and organizations involved in illegal profit-driven practices that harm our medical system.”

    “Protecting TRICARE, the healthcare system for military members and their dependents, is a top priority for the Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS), the law enforcement arm of the Department of Defense Office of Inspector General,” stated Special Agent-in-Charge Patrick J. Hegarty, DCIS Northeast Field Office.  “The settlement agreement announced today demonstrates our ongoing commitment to work with our law enforcement partners and the Department of Justice to investigate allegations of healthcare fraud.”

    The civil settlements resolve the claims brought by Robert Gruber, under the qui tam or whistleblower provisions of the False Claims Act.  Under these provisions, a private party may file an action on behalf of the United States and receive a portion of any recovery.  The qui tam case is captioned United States ex rel. Gruber v. Ra Medical Systems, Inc., et al., No. 19-12044 (E.D. Mich.).  The whistleblower will receive a combined $1,722,000 from the three settlements.  The claims resolved by the settlements are allegations only; there has been no determination or admission of liability.

    The matter was investigated by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonny Zajac of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Michigan, with assistance from HHS-OIG, the FBI, and the Defense Criminal Investigative Service.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: St. Louis Nonprofit Executive Accused of More Than $2 Million Dollar Student Meal Fraud

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

    ST. LOUIS – The owner of a nonprofit was indicted Wednesday and accused of fraudulently obtaining more than $2 million in funds intended to feed low-income Missouri children, both before and during the coronavirus pandemic.

    Cymone McClellan, 31, of St. Louis, was indicted in U.S. District Court in St. Louis on four felony counts of wire fraud.

    The indictment says McClellan owned and ran a non-profit organization called Sister of Lavender Rose (S.O.L.R.). From about January 2019 to June 2022, McClellan and her nonprofit submitted false and fraudulent meal reimbursement claims to Missouri’s Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS).  S.O.L.R. submitted reimbursement claims to the Food and Nutrition Programs for Children claiming that she served 860,876 meals to children but only bought enough food and milk to serve fewer than one-quarter of those meals, the indictment says. According to the indictment, McClellan defrauded the State of Missouri out of more than $2 million through her fraudulent reimbursement claims.

    The indictment says McClellan attempted to cover up her crime by providing bogus sign-in sheets to DHSS falsely claiming to have taken the attendance of meal recipients at certain food distribution locations. S.O.L.R. submitted management plans to DHSS falsely asserting that state meal reimbursement dollars were spent only in connection with the provision of meals to low-income children, and that the nonprofit did not use meal money to make purchases over $5,000. The indictment says McClellan spent $60,000 on a down payment on a house in Collinsville, Illinois and also bought five vehicles and a house in Florissant, Missouri.

    One of the addresses where McClellan informed the State of Missouri that she was purportedly preparing food for low-income children belonged to an adults-only nightclub called Elmo’s Love Lounge, the indictment says.

    The indictment seeks the forfeiture of the real estate, as well as a 2021 Chevrolet Traverse, a 2012 Chevrolet Express G3500 van, a 2020 Mercedez-Benz Metris van, a 2012 Ford E350 box truck and a 2018 Lexus RX SUV.

    Charges set forth in an indictment are merely accusations and do not constitute proof of guilt.  Every defendant is presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty. The wire fraud charges carry a penalty of up to 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine or both prison and a fine.

    This case was investigated by the FBI and the U.S. Department of Agriculture Office of Inspector General. Assistant U.S. Attorney Derek Wiseman is prosecuting the case.  

    Anyone with information about pandemic fraud should call the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or report via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Texas Businessman Accused of $1.9 Million COVID Test Kit Fraud

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

    ST. LOUIS – A Texas businessman has been indicted in St. Louis and accused of fraudulently seeking more than $4.5 million from Medicare for COVID test kits and obtaining more than $1.9 million.

    Rashid Naqvi, 51, of the Houston area, was indicted in U.S. District Court in St. Louis on September 4 on four counts of wire fraud conspiracy and one count each of obstruction of a federal audit and conspiracy.

    He appeared in court Wednesday and pleaded not guilty.

    The indictment accuses Naqvi of fraudulently obtaining $1,974,479 from Medicare from March 2023 through September 2024 by billing for numerous COVID-19 test kits that were sent to patients who had never requested them. Many of the patients were dead, the indictment says. Naqvi obtained victims’ Medicare Numbers and identifiers without their knowledge or consent by paying a total of $488,435 in illegal kickbacks to co-conspirators, the indictment says. It says Naqvi used two laboratories that he owned to submit the false claims to Medicare, Elite Diagnostics Inc. in Missouri and Astro Diagnostics Inc. in the Southern District of Texas.

    The indictment says Naqvi attempted to conceal his scheme by disguising kickback payments as payments for COVID test kits, creating a sham contract with one of the companies supplying the information and submitting false documents to Medicare investigators during an audit. He continued submitting false claims to Medicare even after patients called to tell him that they did not request or want the test kits, the indictment says. Naqvi sought a total of $4,579,850 from Medicare.

    Charges set forth in an indictment are merely accusations and do not constitute proof of guilt.  Every defendant is presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty.

    Wire fraud is punishable by up to 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, or both. Obstruction of a federal audit and conspiracy are each punishable by up to five years in prison and a $250,000 fine.

    “Today’s indictment reflects our unwavering commitment to safeguarding Medicare and ensuring that its resources are used appropriately,” said Linda T. Hanley, Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of the Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “There are serious consequences for individuals who seek to manipulate federal health care programs by exploiting enrollees’ personal information and participating in illegal kickbacks. HHS-OIG is committed to working with our law enforcement partners to hold those accountable who undermine the integrity of our health care system.”

    The FBI and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Derek Wiseman is prosecuting the case. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former Inkster Mayor Pleads Guilty to Agreeing to Accept $100,000 in Bribes

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

    DETROIT – The former Mayor of the City of Inkster pleaded guilty to bribery, United States Attorney Dawn N. Ison announced today.

    Ison was joined in the announcement by Cheyvoryea Gibson, Special Agent in Charge of the Detroit Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

    Patrick Wimberly, 50, of Inkster, served as the Mayor of the City of Inkster, Michigan, from 2019 through 2023. In the spring of 2022, Wimberly demanded $100,000 in cash payments to facilitate the sale of property owned by the City to an outside party (referred to as “Person A”). Over several months, Person A provided Wimberly with monthly cash bribes to secure the purchase of this property. The monthly payments started at $5,000 but the parties agreed to eventually increase that amount. After the initial bribes, Wimberly explained that he was ready to increase the payments. Person A agreed. But when Person A later did not provide the amount Wimberly expected, Wimberly complained that he was due “10$ a month.” Person A then increased the monthly payments to $10,000. In total, Person A provided $50,000 in cash to Wimberly for the purpose of winning the bid for subject property. The Federal Bureau of Investigation intervened before the property could be transferred to Person A.

    The bribery charge, a violation of 18 U.S.C. § 666, carries a maximum sentence of 10 years’ imprisonment and a fine of $250,000.

    “Public officials who act in their own best interests, motivated by greed, betray the trust of their communities and the general public,” United States Attorney Ison said. “ We will continue to aggressively prosecute corrupt public officials for their illegal actions.”

    “Investigating public corruption is a primary concern and priority of the FBI in Michigan,” said Cheyvoryea Gibson, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Michigan. The former City of Inkster mayor, Patrick Wimberly’s guilty plea is a step forward in reminding public officials that they will be held accountable for their actions and should always operate with the highest level of integrity. Members of the FBI’s Detroit Area Corruption Task Force will continue to investigate any allegations of criminal misconduct from our public officials, in an effort to maintain the public’s trust.”

    The investigation of this case was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Eaton P. Brown.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Dracut Brothers Agree to Plead Guilty to Fraud Scheme Involving Online Sales of Cosmetics

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

    BOSTON – Two men have been charged with, and have agreed to plead guilty to, carrying out a scheme to obtain products of an online cosmetics company through fraud and to resell those products on Amazon and eBay for a profit.

    Brothers Nick Ashtar-Zadeh, 22, and Nika Ashtar-Zadeh, 23, of Dracut, have agreed to plead guilty to one count of wire fraud each. Plea hearings have not yet been scheduled by the Court.

    According to the charging documents, between 2020 and 2021, Nick Ashtar-Zadeh and Nika Ashtar-Zadeh operated Amazon and eBay “stores” that offered various products for sale, including the products of a cosmetics company in Texas. It is alleged that the Ashtar-Zadehs offered the company’s products on these platforms to buyers for one-time payments that were typically equal to or below the company’s list prices for the same products. The Ashtar-Zadehs then enrolled these Amazon and eBay buyers in the company’s 30-day trial program for the same products. The brothers allegedly entered the buyers’ information on the company’s website, without the customers’ knowledge or consent, and caused the company to ship its products to those buyers for a trial period. It is alleged that, for these orders, the Ashtar-Zadehs presented the company with forms of payment that fulfilled initial charges of $19.95 but were declined when the company attempted to charge later installments, after buyers had kept the products past 30 days. The brothers sold the company’s products in this manner to hundreds of buyers on Amazon and eBay, each time pocketing the difference between what the buyers paid them and the initial $19.95 upfront payment to the company. As a result of the alleged conduct, the Ashtar-Zadehs cost the company hundreds of thousands of dollars in losses.

    The charge of wire fraud provides a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.

    Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy and Jodi Cohen, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney David M. Holcomb of the Securities, Financial & Cyber Fraud Unit is prosecuting the case.

    The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendants are presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in the court of law.
     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Hammond Man Indicted for Identity Theft

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

    NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that ERNEST X. TAYLOR, JR. (“TAYLOR”), age 39, a resident of Hammond, Louisiana, was indicted on September 20, 2024 for identity theft, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 1028(a)(7) and 1028(b)(1)(D).

    According to court documents, in December 2021, TAYLOR used means of identification belonging to a victim to obtain a $25,000 loan from Collins Community Credit Union.

    Specifically, TAYLOR used identification in the victim’s name, without the knowledge or consent of the victim.  If convicted, TAYLOR faces up to fifteen years imprisonment, up to three years of supervised release, a fine of up to $250,000, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.

    U.S. Attorney Evans reiterated that the indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.

    The case was investigated by  the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the United States Secret Service.  Assistant United States Attorney Maria M. Carboni of the Financial Crimes Unit is handling the prosecution.

    MIL Security OSI –