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  • MIL-OSI: E Ink Wins Manufacturer of the Year at the 9th Annual Massachusetts Manufacturing Awards Ceremony

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BILLERICA, Mass., Sept. 25, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — E Ink (8069.TW) the originator, pioneer, and global commercial leader in ePaper technology, today announced that the Commonwealth of Massachusetts recognized E Ink as a leading manufacturer in the state at the 9th Annual Manufacturing Awards. Companies across the Commonwealth, including E Ink, were honored by the Legislative Manufacturing Caucus and accepted their awards on September 25 at Gillette Stadium. 

    The award recognizes E Ink in part because of its ongoing manufacturing and production of ePaper displays in Massachusetts. E Ink’s Billerica and South Hadley facility has been actively producing the Company’s proprietary ink and film products since 2009. E Ink has since acquired both sites and plans further expansion in the future. The Company is also looking to invest in automation within the factories to stay competitive in a challenging manufacturing environment.

    The most notable product manufactured in Massachusetts is E Ink’s black and white ink and film, which is used in millions of eReaders and electronic shelf labels, in transportation signs throughout the world, including at the MBTA, and in the world’s first color-changing car, produced with BMW. E Ink’s innovative and rugged ePaper enables a variety of applications that value a low power display that is easy on the eyes.

    “Massachusetts stands at the forefront of advanced manufacturing in the United States, thanks to the collaborative efforts of government and industry,” said Paul Apen, E Ink’s US Chief Operating Officer. “Under the leadership of Speaker Mariano, Senate President Spilka, and Governor Healey, the Legislature has made strategic investments in this critical sector. At E Ink, we are committed to driving innovation, enhancing production, and creating jobs for residents in the Commonwealth.”

    Formed in August 2014, the Manufacturing Caucus includes more than 70 legislators from around the Commonwealth. Lawmakers focus on training for manufacturing employees, encouraging innovation by helping start-ups access resources, and expanding apprenticeship opportunities in key manufacturing sectors.  To celebrate October’s Manufacturing Month, the Commonwealth’s Legislative Manufacturing Caucus teamed up with The Center for Advanced Manufacturing (CAM), along with MassMEP, MassRobotics, Forge, WPI, and the MassHire boards, who hosted the “Massachusetts Manufacturing Mash-Up” at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts.

    As a global leader in ePaper technology, E Ink is not only committed to delivering innovative technology via advanced manufacturing processes but is also prioritizing sustainability. The company is actively focused on reducing carbon emissions throughout the product design and manufacturing processes by conducting carbon footprint verification and providing customers with a sustainable framework for the design and integration of ePaper products.

    E Ink has also set the ambitious goal of achieving Net Zero by 2040 and RE100 by 2030, which means sourcing the company’s entire energy utilization from renewable sources. As of December 2023, E Ink’s global operations and sales sites have already achieved RE35 with factories and offices in Billerica, Fremont, and South Hadley (United States), and sales offices in Tokyo (Japan) and Seoul (South Korea), successfully reaching RE100 by using 100 percent renewable energy. In September 2023, E Ink’s science-based greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reduction targets were validated and approved by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi). For years, E Ink was identified as having 99.9 percent of Green Revenue according to the FTSE Russell Green Revenue 2.0 Data Model, underscoring the positive environmental impact of ePaper products.

    About E Ink

    E Ink Holdings Inc. (8069.TWO), based on technology from MIT’s Media Lab, provides an ideal display medium for applications spanning eReaders and eNotes, retail, home, hospital, transportation, logistics, and more, enabling customers to put displays in locations previously impossible. E Ink’s electrophoretic display products make it the worldwide leader for ePaper. Its low power displays enable customers to reach their sustainability goals, and E Ink has pledged using 100% renewable energy in 2030 and reaching net zero carbon emissions by 2040. E Ink has been recognized for their efforts by receiving, validation from Science-Based Targets (SBTi) and is listed in both the DJSI World and DJSI Emerging Indexes. Listed in Taiwan’s Taipei Exchange (TPEx) and the Luxembourg market, E Ink Holdings is now the world’s largest supplier of ePaper displays. For more information please visit www.eink.com. E Ink. We Make Surfaces Smart and Green.

    Contact:
    V2 Communications on behalf of E Ink
    eink@v2comms.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: American National Urges Claims Preparedness for Tropical Storm Helene

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SPRINGFIELD, Mo., Sept. 25, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Helene is forecast to rapidly intensify and accelerate while it moves northward across the eastern Gulf of Mexico and approaches the Florida Gulf coast. The storm is expected to intensify and grow significantly reaching major hurricane intensity as it approaches the Florida coast and impacting the southeast region. American National strongly encourages its policyholders to prepare for their insurance needs. We hope you will find the following informational resources helpful while preparing for this storm. Please be advised to follow the orders of local authorities.

    If you are an American National policyholder:

    There are several ways to report a claim (to ensure efficient claims service, check that your login credentials are up to date):

    1. Mobile: Use the AN Mobile app, available for free at the Apple App store or Google Play. An account is required.
    2. Online: Claims (AmericanNational.com) and login to your account to file claim. To create an account, go to AmericanNational.com > Customer Login > Personal Insurance – Log In > Register.
    3. If reporting on behalf of the insured and do not have a login: Claims (AmericanNational.com) and click the “Start Claim Online” link.
    4. Phone: Call the 24-hour claims hotline at (800) 333-2860.

    Stay alert, stay safe:

    Refer to the National Hurricane Center at http://www.nhc.noaa.gov for hurricane preparedness, weather tracking and additional updates.

    Check your local area forecast and follow instructions from local authorities to protect yourself, your family, and your property. Be sure to secure your home and property, follow your disaster plan and heed all storm warnings.

    APCIA urges the following actions to prepare for a tropical storm or hurricane:

    1. Gather copies of your insurance policies. Keep copies of your insurance policies (home, flood and auto) in a safe, dry, and accessible location or have your policy numbers available.
    2. Save your insurer’s contact info. Save your insurer’s toll-free claims number to your cell phone’s contacts. APCIA has a list of insurer’s toll-free numbers here. APCIA American Property Casualty Insurance Association | APCIA
    3. Make a home or business inventory. Use your smartphone to take photos or videos of your belongings, including furniture, appliances, clothes, lawn equipment, jewelry, and art. Save your inventory to a place where you can easily retrieve it. You can also check if your insurer has an app to help with creating a home inventory.

    For more information on how to prepare, visit https://www.weather.gov/safety/hurricane-plan.

    ABOUT AMERICAN NATIONAL

    American National is a group of companies writing a broad array of insurance products and services and operating in all 50 states. American National Insurance Company was founded in 1905 and is headquartered in Galveston, Texas. Life insurance, annuities, credit insurance, pension products, and other products and services are written through multiple companies. Property and casualty insurance is written through American National Property And Casualty Company, Springfield, Missouri, and affiliates. In New York, business is written through Farm Family Casualty Insurance Company, United Farm Family Insurance Company, and American National Life Insurance Company of New York, Glenmont, New York. Not all products and services are available in all states. Not all companies are licensed in all states. Each company has financial responsibility for only the products and services it issues. For more information, please visit AmericanNational.com

    Contact:
     Becky Hudzik-Presson
    SVP, Chief Claims Officer, P&C Claims Executive
    Becky.Hudzik-Presson@AmericanNational.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: CNO, NAVSOUTH Strengthen Partnerships at Inter-American Naval Conference in Brazil

    Source: United States Navy

    RIO DE JANIERO – Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Lisa Franchetti and Commander U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command/U.S. 4th Fleet (USNAVSOUTH) Rear Adm. Carlos Sardiello, participated in the 31st Inter-American Naval Conference (IANC), Sep. 23-25, joining naval leaders from 18 countries from across the Western Hemisphere.

    IANC, hosted this year by Brazil, serves as a forum for partner nations to discuss maritime security challenges and promote hemispheric solidarity.

    “This conference has been crucial to strengthening our bonds of friendship, collaboration and partnership for more than half a century,” said Franchetti. “We are all united by our shared values, our shared geography, and our shared stake in the continued stability, security and prosperity of the Western Hemisphere and our world.”

    The theme for this year’s conference is ‘Naval challenges and strategies to ensure operational readiness in the face of new technologies and the expansion of the navies’ responsibilities: strategic planning, doctrine development, and professional training in the medium and long term.’

    Franchetti emphasized the importance of working together as part of a security and warfighting ecosystem to address shared challenges, as outlined in her recently released Navigation Plan for America’s Warfighting Navy, noting that every Navy and Coast Guard has a role to play as a vital link in the maritime chain.

    “In this increasingly turbulent and unpredictable world, security through partnership is essential because no single nation can handle our maritime challenges alone,” said Franchetti in her remarks. “It is critical that we, the global maritime community, work together to align our efforts in a way that can benefit us all. And you will have no stronger partner than the United States Navy and the United States Marine Corps team.”

    As part of the visit, Adm. Marcos Sampaio Olsen, Commander of the Brazilian Navy, hosted the delegates aboard the multipurpose amphibious ship NDM Bahia (G40) for a celebratory dinner and performance by the Brazilian Marine Corps Symphonic Band.

    Franchetti also participated in bilateral meetings with her Head of Navy counterparts from Argentina, Brazil, Canada, Chile, and Colombia, and she had meaningful discussions with leaders from Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Mexico. Meanwhile Sardiello participated in bilateral engagements with The Netherlands, Panama, Peru and Urugay, and had meaningful discussions with leaders from the Dominican Republic and Paraguay.

    During their engagements Franchetti and Sardiello discussed the role of USNAVSOUTH in employing maritime forces in cooperative maritime security operations in order to maintain access, enhance interoperability, and build enduring partnerships that foster regional security in the U.S. Southern Command area of responsibility.

    “This conference promotes an important permanent, professional interaction among Heads of Navy on a regular basis so that we can find solutions to problems that no one nation can solve on their own,” said Sardiello. “The security environment has changed since 1959, and we are very focused on today’s challenges to the security and welfare in our region.”

    IANC was established in 1959 to strengthen the bonds of friendship, partnership, and collaboration among Western Hemisphere naval leaders through the exchange of ideas and knowledge. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: Remarks by Chief of Naval Operations Admiral Lisa Franchetti at the Inter-American Naval Conference

    Source: United States Navy

    Buenos días.  Good morning.  Hello, heads of Navy.  It is so wonderful to be here and an honor to be back here in beautiful Rio de Janeiro.

    Obrigada, Admiral Olsen and his team – your entire team – for hosting this extraordinary gathering, the 31st Inter-American Naval Conference.  This has been so crucial to strengthening our bonds of friendship, collaboration, and partnership for more than half a century.

    You know, it is really great to be here among friends who are all united by our shared values, our shared geography, and our shared stake in the continued stability, security, and prosperity of the Western Hemisphere and our world.

    This year’s theme could not be more relevant or more important to the United States, this hemisphere, and the global community.  I know that all of the navies represented here understand well that these are very turbulent times, and we’ve been talking about that through your presentations today.  We understand that the international system that has provided security and stability for over three-quarters of a century is under threat in every ocean.

    We’ve all scanned the horizon, and we see the forces that are making our world and our hemisphere more unstable and more dangerous.  We’ve all experienced the devastation of natural disasters, which have been intensified by a changing climate:  flooding, fires, droughts, cyclones, landslides, and rising seas.  And we’ve all witnessed the impact of illegal, unregulated, unreported fishing, and transnational crime – drugs, weapons, human trafficking – and the impact this has on our societies and on our populations.

    And as I take in this changing environment, I know that my Navy must take action to get ahead of the changing character of the work and the additional challenges we are all facing in ship construction, maintenance, challenges we’re facing in recruiting and maintaining our infrastructure, all while acknowledging – in my case – the industrial and budgetary constraints that complicate my Navy’s ability to get after these challenges.

    We see advancements in battlefield innovation; like we were just talking about, the profound implications for the changing character of war.  We see cheaper, more accessible technology is pushing asymmetric capabilities at a lower cost to state and nonstate actors alike.

    Over the past two years, as we’ve all seen, the Ukrainian navy has used a combination of missiles, robotic service vessels, and agile digital capabilities to deny the Russian navy the use of the western Black Sea and to threaten Russia’s supply lines to its occupying forces in Crimea. And Houthi forces, equipped by Iran and emboldened by Hamas’ horrific attack on Israel nearly a year ago, have repeatedly targeted innocent merchant shipping along a key maritime chokepoint and created (vast/mass effects ?) through a mix of ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and drones against the United States Navy and all of the partner navies that are serving in that part of the world today.

    We’ve all learned a lot about the future of war at sea, including the role – as we were just talking about – of robotic platforms, of proliferated weapons, and disaggregated forces in gaining and exploiting the sea.

    In this increasingly turbulent and unpredictable world, security through partnership is critical because no one navy, no single nation can handle all of these challenges alone, and because all of our safety, security, and prosperity are tied to the seas. And as I’ve seen in the briefings we’ve had here already this week, all of our navies are right there on the front lines – right there on the maritime front lines every single day with more tasks than resources that we often have available.

    So I think it’s really important that we, the global maritime community, work together to align our efforts in a way that can benefit us all.  And we need to do this thoughtfully, deliberately, and collectively.

    So whether you are charged by your nation with countering drug trafficking, human smuggling, illicit weapons transfers, IUU fishing, piracy, policing your territorial waters, delivering humanitarian aid and assistance to people in need, assisting mariners at sea, escorting cargo transports/tankers, or you’re deploying your forces all around the world, I believe that each nation here is the vital link in the chain of our maritime security network.

    You will have no stronger partner in this endeavor than the United States Navy and the United States Marine Corps team, who will work with you tirelessly to find common ground and common cause to address our common challenges.  And you will have no more committed teammate than me, because I strongly believe that friendship is strength; and that allies and partners collectively, we are each other’s true strategic weapon.  Together, we can collaborate and build a unifying framework where there is no south, no north, no east, no west, but really just a coalition of countries who participate in and engage on matters of common interest to promote continued stability in this hemisphere and beyond.

    As I look ahead, I really see us doing this as part of what I call a warfighting ecosystem.  It’s a concept that I introduced last week when I talked about my Navigation Plan for America’s Warfighting Navy.  It’s my overarching strategic guidance that will make my Navy more ready for potential conflict across all time horizons, across the spectrum of operations both today and in the future.

    As the Chief of Naval Operations, I’m compelled to do more and to do more faster to ensure that our Navy is more ready despite all these challenges, despite the changing security environment, the changing character of war, and our own industrial base challenges.  I can’t stand still as we work to secure the long-term investments we need for our Navy to grow our work.

    My Navigation Plan will raise America’s Navy’s baseline level of readiness and put more players on the field.  Players are things like platforms that are ready with their requisite capabilities, weapons, and sustainment; and the people that are ready with the right mindset, the right tools, skills, training, and the relationships.

    We will be doing that by, first, implementing Project 33, seven key areas that my Navy needs to accelerate.  And they’re areas where I will put my personal time, my personal attention, and my resources, and really put my thumb on the scale to urgently move the needle.  It is a reference to my place as the 33rd Chief of Naval Operations in a continuum of naval leaders past, present, and future.

    Second, by expanding my Navy’s contribution to the warfighting ecosystem.  Where every country has a seat at the table and a role to play no matter the size of their forces or the extent of their capabilities, we can come together to counter our share of the challenges.

    So I’ll talk to you just a little bit about this ecosystem.  I think it’s probably better explained as a global security ecosystem.  We saw a little preview of this as we were just talking about – in the presentation on Orion (ph).  It’s another version of an ecosystem.  It’s where participants can plug in and contribute their capabilities, their information, their logistics, their people, their maritime domain awareness; and create compounding, outsized effects in service of an open, safe, and stable maritime domain.  It is a system in which the layered capabilities of each of our navies, coast guards, marine corps, marine maritime police forces, and interagency partners enable and then are enabled by each other.

    And in this area of operations, in the Western Hemisphere and its adjacent seas – an area that is critical to global security and stability – I believe there are some key opportunities where we can collaborate and cooperate to expand our collective contribution to this ecosystem.  And this is a great place to have these conversations, at this kind of conference.

    So let me just highlight a few of them today.

    I think the first opportunity is about building interoperability and accelerating our naval integration to work more seamlessly together.  In order to support our mutual requirements, we can work together coherently, effectively, and efficiently to achieve our tactical, then our operational, and then our strategic objectives.  We can do this through education, exchanges, through our officers and our enlisted leaders, whether it’s in the United States – maybe at the Naval Academy, the War College, Navy Postgraduate School – or in the many programs that you offer to us and to each other across the hemisphere.  Through these exchanges, we can plant the seeds to grow our long-term relationships, create long-term shared understanding, and develop approaches to address the common challenges we face.

    And we can build that interoperability through exercises.  We’re coming off a great year of many, many exercises.  And earlier this year we conducted the 29th Rim of the Pacific exercise with 29 nations, 25,000 people from across the Pacific Ocean, Europe and all around.

    In August, our Navy supported the 10th Southern Seas deployment, and the third with the Aircraft Carrier Strike Group George Washington, conducting at-sea operations and building our collective operational planning capability.  One of the ways we did that this year was through the deployment’s first-ever embarked international staff made up of 29 maritime officers from your navies and your coast guards.  And I want to thank you for that support.  Together, our staffs briefed, planned, and executed 35 bilateral and multinational exercises, further strengthening our interoperability and our enduring partnerships.

    In August, as well, our navies conducted the latest iteration of Continuing Promise, 2024, growing our collective capability to provide health and veterinary care, execute professional military exchanges, conduct construction projects, and enhance our collective disaster relief preparedness and ability to cooperate in the face of a crisis.

    Two weeks ago, our navies wrapped up – and thank you to all of you for participating in a highly successful UNITAS, the most recent in the longest-running multinational maritime exercise in the entire world.  It was at a meeting like this, at the first Inter-American Naval Conference in 1959, that UNITAS which conceptualized, agreed upon, and brought to life.

    This year, for the first time ever, our navies conducted that exercise at the operational level, executing full maritime operation center processes to synchronize efforts across all domains, including cyber.  And as you may have seen better resourced in my NAVPLAN, I talk a little bit about the importance of a maritime operation center.  Resourcing our MOCs is a critical part of my plan and a critical part of integrating with each of you, linking our commanders to the wide range of sensors and platforms that are distributed across the seas.

    You know, if you step back and you think about everything that has happened in our world since that Inter-American Naval Conference back in 1959, each of us here has remained committed to our UNITAS exercise, knowing well it is part of our maritime heritage.  It is part of our critical, sharing partnership.  And so, as the United States look forward to hosting UNITAS in 2025 in Mayport and participating in future exercises, I know we will continue to build our collective interoperability.

    I think our second opportunity is continuing to deepen our cooperation with maritime law enforcement and by aligning our authorities to help counter transnational organized crime.  Everyone today, as – (inaudible) – just talked about, is challenged.  And I think by synchronizing our efforts with our authorities, we can accelerate our progress against the forces that are working hard to destabilize our region.

    We’ve seen success in this with the Joint Interagency Task Force South, where the United States, alongside many allies and partners, as well as interagency partners, has been able to interdict vessels carrying drugs and other contraband.  And right now, as part of Campaign Martillo, our navies are working together to deny transnational criminal organizations the ability to use regional sea lines of communication for the movement of these illicit goods.

    And then, finally, I’ll pick up where I left off in our previous discussion.  I think the third opportunity is to enhance our collaboration on robotic and autonomous systems to help especially improve our maritime domain awareness.  As I said earlier, we can use these technologies to do things that are dirty.  We can free up our sailors to do the things that only they can do.

    So whether it’s tasks that are dirty – I think about, many of you who have been at sea, cleaning a bilge.  That would be great to have technology to do that and not our sailors.

    To do the things that are dangerous.  Many of us have worked with technologies to defuse mines and destroy mines.  Where else can we have autonomous robotic technology do the things that are dangerous?

    And things that are dull.  This is going on a patrol for weeks on end and maybe never even seeing one of the things that we’re looking for.  But can we do that through a robotic and autonomous platform on the sea, above the sea, under the sea, and then free up our people to go and see what is that anomalous behavior that an autonomous platform has detected in a pattern of life?

    Again, we can free up our people to use their talents and use their creativity for the things that only they can do.  And I think that we could partner together to leverage our respective innovation bases and invest in some of those advanced technologies and prototypes to ensure that our – we have this advantage today and we have it in the future.

    Integrating robotic autonomous systems into our daily business of operations is a key part of my Navigation Plan.  I think it is an area of great opportunity.  And I’m going to invest my time and resources to help, again, raise that baseline level of integration and the baseline level of readiness of our fleet by expanding, extending, and bolstering the reach and resilience, as well as potentially the lethality, of our conventionally manned fleet by integrating unmanned technologies.

    We’re already seeing the positive effects of these systems across our force and with allies and partners through the Fleet Experimentation series – or called FLEX series – that’s been sponsored by NAVSOUTH for the last several years.  In fact, today, in the Hybrid Fleet Campaign Event in Key West, Florida, there are sailors in companies from across our navies.  They are working together to operationalize new capabilities, to enhance maritime domain awareness, and to detect and monitor illicit trafficking – again, working towards a more stable future for our hemisphere.

    So, fellow leaders, this week we have an opportunity to discuss our shared challenges and chart our course to increase the resilience of our forces, to strengthen security, and promote prosperity as partners, building on our already very sound foundation.  Each of you here has an important role and provides valued expertise in this ecosystem that I believe is critical to tackling our common values.  Together, we can ensure the security and stability of our region while working to ensure that our shared values, our cultures, and our way of life can be shared by generations to come.

    So I thank you all very much for the opportunity and the honor to be with you today, and I hope we can do this next year at Mayport for UNITAS.  I also invite you to come to our International Seapower Symposium, which will be next October in Newport, Rhode Island, and then help me celebrate the nation’s 250th birthday.  I know that’s young for some of the other navies here, but 250 for us.  We’ll be celebrating that birthday also in October, in Philadelphia.  And I look forward to seeing you at those events if I don’t see you before.  Thanks very much.  Again, it’s an honor to be with all of you today.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Magaziner, Frankel, Miller, Morelle, Bilirakis Introduce Bipartisan Resolution Recognizing National Fall Prevention Awareness Week

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Seth Magaziner (RI-02)

    Washington, DC – Today, Reps. Seth Magaziner (D-RI-2), Lois Frankel (D-FL-22), Carol Miller (R-WV-1), Joe Morelle (D-NY-25), and Gus Bilirakis (R-FL-12) introduced a bipartisan resolution recognizing September 22 – 28, 2024 as National Fall Prevention Awareness Week. The resolution seeks to raise awareness, encourage the prevention of falls among older adults, and highlight evidence-based programs that help reduce fall risks and save the lives of seniors. 

    “Falls can be serious—and even deadly—for older Americans, and Congress must consider this issue as seriously as we would for any other medical condition,” said Rep. Magaziner. “Designating a National Fall Prevention Awareness Week will help bring attention to this critical issue and support programs that protect seniors, reduce falls and save lives.”

    “With over 365,000 seniors in Palm Beach County, this issue is near and dear to my heart,” said Rep. Frankel. “Falls are the leading cause of injury among adults over 65. They can be debilitating, heartbreaking, and expensive, but the good news is they are preventable! This year, we’re marking National Fall Prevention Awareness Week to spread the word that tools and resources are available to help prevent falls before they happen, ensuring our seniors can live with the safety and dignity they deserve.”

    “It’s no secret the U.S. population is aging, and it’s important to ensure there are enough resources and education for seniors as they are more at risk of falling. By designating a National Fall Prevention Awareness Week, we are bringing awareness to this important issue that affects many of our constituents. I’m glad to join my colleagues in sponsoring this resolution to help prevent falls and protect seniors as they age,” said Rep. Miller.

    “As our loved ones get older, we must ensure they have the resources and support to age in place safely, independently, and with dignity,” said Rep. Morelle. “Falls can be scary and have serious health consequences for older individuals. It’s critical we do everything we can to promote fall prevention to help save lives and give seniors and their loved ones some well-deserved piece of mind. I’m proud to join my colleagues in support of this resolution, and I look forward to working with them to secure resources and support for older Americans.”

    “As someone who has experienced a fall that resulted in broken ribs, I am very familiar with the pain that often comes from a fall,” said Rep. Bilirakis. “The risks associated with falling are especially high for seniors over the age of 65.  According to the CDC, 36 million seniors fall each year. Tragically, these falls result in 34,000 deaths and three million serious injuries that require an emergency room visit. The good news is that falls are preventable and do not need to be an inevitable part of aging. I encourage all seniors and their loved ones to learn more about how to stay safe and active by taking advantage of the fall prevention programs offered in their community.  Local Area Agency on Aging organizations have wonderful resources that can help save lives.”

    “The cost of falls among older adults is staggering: $80 billion/year, and untold suffering and pain,” said Ramsey Alwin, President and CEO of the National Council on Aging. “We welcome this Congressional resolution to draw attention to the fact that falls can be prevented. There are proven, cost-effective ways to reduce fall risk. We are grateful to Rep. Frankel for championing this issue and her steadfast leadership throughout the Capitol and across party lines.”

    Each year, 14 million older Americans experience falls, resulting in 3 million emergency room visits and 39,000 tragic deaths. Falls are the leading cause of injury for adults aged 65 and older, with non-fatal falls costing our health care system $80 billion annually. Seniors can reduce their risk of falling through basic home modifications, daily exercises, and other simple precautions.

    The Members were joined by 24 original cosponsors: Reps. Colin Allred (D-TX-32), Nanette Barragán (D-CA-44), Ami Bera (D-CA-6), Nikki Budzinski (D-IL-13), Kathy Castor (D-FL-14), Emanuel Cleaver (D-MO-5), Don Davis (D-NC-1), Madeleine Dean (D-PA-4), Raúl Grijalva (D-AZ-7), Jahana Hayes (D-CT-5), Henry C. “Hank” Johnson, Jr. (D-GA-4), Marcy Kaptur (D-OH-9), Ro Khanna (D-CA-17), Mike Lawler (R-NY-17), Doris Matsui (D-CA-7), Jared Moskowitz (D-FL-23), Jerrold Nadler (D-NY-12), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC-At Large), Mark Pocan (D-WI-2), Jan Schakowsky (D-IL-9), Haley Stevens (D-MI-11), Darren Soto (D-FL-9), Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL-25), and Frederica Wilson (D-FL-24).

    The resolution is supported by the National Council on Aging (NCOA) and AARP.

    For full text of the resolution, click here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rhode Island to Receive $500,000 to Improve DNA Evidence Processing & Bring Justice to Victims of Cold Cases

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Seth Magaziner (RI-02)

    WASHINGTON, DC – In an effort to help Rhode Island’s law enforcement community close cases on violent crimes that, in many cases, have been left unsolved for decades, U.S. Senators Jack Reed and Sheldon Whitehouse and U.S. Representatives Seth Magaziner and Gabe Amo today announced that the Office of the Rhode Island Attorney General Peter F. Neronha will receive a $500,000 federal grant for the office’s cold case unit of investigators and prosecutors.

    The federal funds are administered by the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) Prosecuting Cold Cases Using DNA Program. The Attorney General’s Office will utilize the funds for its “Closure Project” to strengthen the state’s DNA analysis capabilities and search capacity, better inventory cold cases, and review and select cases that have developed DNA suspect profiles to assist investigators in prosecuting suspects. The Rhode Island Department of Health will also receive funding from the grant, which will help provide additional capacity for DNA analysis in cold cases.

    “This federal funding for Attorney General Neronha and his skilled team of prosecutors, investigators, and law enforcement personnel will help make Rhode Island safer and will bring justice to victims of violent crimes and their families who have gone too long without answers and deserve closure,” said Senator Reed, a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee.  “Modern technology is constantly adding new tools that are incredibly useful to investigators. By strengthening Rhode Island’s ability to efficiently process and inventory DNA evidence, we’re making a smart investment in public safety, reducing violent crime, and bolstering our ability to pursue justice.”

    “No victim of a violent crime should have to wait decades for justice to be served,” said Whitehouse, a senior member of the Senate Judiciary Committee and former U.S. Attorney and Rhode Island Attorney General.  “This federal investment will strengthen the state’s ability to process DNA evidence and prosecute violent cold cases, bringing justice and closure to victims and their families – a high priority of Attorney General Neronha’s.”

    “We must always remain dogged in the pursuit of justice for victims of violent crime and their loved ones,” said Rep. Seth Magaziner. “This federal funding will be used to help identify suspects through modern forensic analysis, make Rhode Island safer by holding offenders accountable, and bring closure to families who have been waiting for answers.” 

    “Justice delayed should never be justice denied for victims of violent crime and their loved ones,” said Congressman Gabe Amo. “As technology advances and techniques improve to help identify perpetrators, I support investing in our state’s forensic capabilities to pursue cold cases and protect public safety. I’m pleased to join my colleagues in announcing that this grant will support the tireless efforts of the Rhode Island Attorney General’s ‘Closure Project’ initiative.”

    “Cold cases tend to be unique in their complexity, and yet they all have at least one thing in common: delayed justice for victims and their loved ones,” said Attorney General Peter F. Neronha. “New scientific and investigatory advancements have reignited hope in the hearts of those waiting years, sometimes decades, for answers. Since the creation of our Cold Case Unit, a talented team of investigators, prosecutors, and analysts has been working diligently to solve these cases, and already seeing results. I want to thank Senators Reed and Whitehouse and Representatives Amo and Magaziner for their support, and to Rhode Island House Speaker Shekarchi and Senate President Ruggerio for helping to fund this important work on behalf of Rhode Islanders.”

    The DOJ Prosecuting Cold Cases Using DNA Program provides resources and support for the prosecution of violent cold cases where a suspect of the crime, known or unknown, has been identified through DNA evidence and analysis. Funding from this program can also be used to support investigations and crime and forensic analyses when a DNA profile has been attributed to a known or unknown suspect.

    Last year, Rhode Island Attorney General Neronha launched a new Cold Case Unit within the Office to advance investigations that could benefit from the application of modern DNA analysis. The Unit is comprised of two prosecutors, four investigators, an intelligence analyst, and a Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI) employee currently in training at the University of New Haven for Forensic Genealogy.  Since its inception, the Unit has worked with more than 12 municipalities in actively investigating 18 cold cases. These federal funds announced today will assist the unit in strategically improving its ability to identify potential cases ready for prosecution, and when DNA profiles of suspects have been established, can also help to advance investigations.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Bennet, Hickenlooper Introduce Legislation to Compensate Communities Affected by Gold King Mine Disaster

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Colorado Michael Bennet

    Washington, D.C. — Colorado U.S. Senators Michael Bennet and John Hickenlooper introduced the Gold King Mine Spill Compensation Act to help communities in Colorado, New Mexico, Utah, and Arizona that were affected by the Gold King Mine disaster of 2015. 

    “The effects of the Gold King Mine disaster were felt far beyond the banks of the Animas River. The blowout hurt families, farmers, and outdoor recreation companies in Durango and throughout southwest Colorado who depend on the river for their livelihoods,” said Bennet. “Almost a decade later, too many Coloradans still feel its effects. Our legislation is a necessary step to help Coloradans finally recover certain remaining costs and damages incurred from the spill and make Southwest Colorado communities whole again.”

    “Local farmers, homeowners, and outdoor rec outfitters were left high and dry after the Gold King Mine spill in 2015,” said Hickenlooper. “Our bill will make sure they get the compensation they need to finally recover and move forward.”

    On August 5, 2015, the Gold King Mine spill released 3 million gallons of polluted mining wastewater into the Animas and San Juan rivers, affecting waterways in Colorado, New Mexico, Utah, the Southern Ute reservation, and the Navajo Nation. Though the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) was able to partially compensate some claims, its ability to meet the needs of affected businesses, farmers, and homeowners is constrained by existing laws. This legislation would provide EPA with the necessary authority and funding to compensate certain outstanding claims from the spill.

    “The Gold King Mine Compensation Act clears the procedural hurdles that kept businesses that suffered economic losses due to the spill nearly 10 years ago from being made whole,” said Matt Salka, Chair, La Plata County Board of County Commissioners. “We are grateful that the impact felt by those businesses has not been forgotten and that a remedy is possible through this much-appreciated legislation.”

    “The work that Senators Bennet and Hickenlooper and their teams have done on the Gold King Mine Bill is restoring my faith in government. After all these years to see the promise of our government concerning the Gold King Mine incident and its ensuing economic damage was not forgotten, is refreshing. The wheels of government turn slowly. We at Mild to Wild Rafting and Jeep Tours are thankful that Senators Bennet and Hickenlooper and their teams are keeping them turning,” said Alex Mickel, President, Mild to Wild Rafting and Jeep Tours.

    The La Plata County Board of County Commissioners also shared a letter in support of this legislation.

    Immediately after the Gold King Mine disaster, then-Governor Hickenlooper declared the affected area a disaster zone. The following month, Bennet requested and testified at a Senate hearing regarding the cause, response, and effects of the Gold King Mine disaster. He also introduced the Gold King Mine Spill Recovery Act to ensure the EPA continued to work with states, local communities, and Tribes to compensate those who were affected and implement long-term water quality monitoring. The following year, Bennet worked to pass legislation to support recovery efforts from the spill.

    On its second anniversary, Bennet and New Mexico Senators Tom Udall and Martin Heinrich, alongside then-Representative Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), introduced legislation to reform the nation’s antiquated mining laws and prevent future hardrock mine disasters.

    The text of the bill is available HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Major international business summit coming to London for first time in 2025

    Source: Mayor of London

    • A major international business summit will be heading to London for the first time ever next year.

     

    Today, it was confirmed that the Concordia Europe Summit will be held in the capital in late spring 2025, which will bring together hundreds of global, regional and national policymakers to showcase investment and partnership opportunities across the capital.

     

    The announcement was made at the Concordia Annual Summit in New York, attended by the Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan. The Concordia Summit brings together leaders from the public and private sectors to foster collaboration and create market-led solutions. This year’s theme Navigating a New Era, for the 14th Annual Summit, will cover pivotal topics from the transformative impact of AI on industries to the landscape of international business, geopolitics, migration, healthcare, education, and more. Notable speakers at this years event including Barbara Humpton, CEO Siemens Corporation and Dara Khosrowshahi, CEO of Uber – speakers at previous Summits include current American President Joe Biden, former Presidents George W. Bush and Bill Clinton, former Prime Minister Tony Blair, as well as business leaders Walmart CEO, Doug McMillon and LinkedIn CEO Ryan Roslansky.

     

    Sadiq was at the annual summit as part of his four-day trip to America to bang the drum for London as the best place in the world to invest and grow a business and discuss the capital as an emerging hub for tech innovation, particularly in AI, fintech, and life sciences.

     

    During his trip the Mayor met with business leaders from Accordion, the world’s leading advisory and tech platform for the private equity market who have announced they will be opening an office in London. Sadiq also met with leaders from CliftonLarsenAllen (CLA) the eight largest accountancy firm in the US who have acquired the London-based AI and analytics platform Engine and will launch their international brand CLA Global in London to run all of their activities outside of North America.

     

    In a further boost to the capital, Constant Contact, an adtech company supporting small and medium businesses will open an office in Marylebone in October 2024 – and Thoropass, a compliance and audit platform from NYC is also opening an office in London. This follows the Salesforce announcement in June of a $4billion investment into the UK including a new office in Southwark.  

     

    Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said: “I am delighted that the 2025 Concordia Europe Summit will be held in London – it really is a perfect match. London is a city teeming with innovations and ideas, and the Concordia summit provides the best forum for them to be shared.

     

    “I look forward to working with the team to make it the best Summit it can be – as we continue to build a fairer and better London for everyone.”

     

    Today’s announcement was made by Concordia Co-founder & Chairman of the Board Nicholas Logothetis.

     

    Matthew Swift, Co-founder, President & CEO, Concordia, said: “Our Europe Initiative is a powerful element of our programming and convening, representative of a significant portion of our global membership community. I could not imagine a better city than London to bring together leaders from across sectors and geographies to address critical issues through our Concilium format. I am grateful for the collaboration and trust placed upon us by the Mayor of London on this exciting development for our 2025 agenda.”

      

    The Mayor is in New York this week during the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly to encourage US businesses to expand and invest in London and promote the capital as an unrivalled destination for tourists. He will also remind global leaders that now is the time to take firm action to tackle climate change.

     

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Climate change fuels August heat waves across Canada – Results from Canada’s Rapid Extreme Weather Event Attribution system demonstrate that human-caused climate change made heat waves at least 10 times more likely in August in some instances

    Source: Government of Canada News

    Analysis from Environment and Climate Change Canada’s Rapid Extreme Weather Event Attribution has shown that, in all cases, human-caused climate change made heat waves in August 2024 more likely to have occurred. In some instances, it was at least 10 times more likely.

    September 25, 2024– Ottawa, Ontario

    Analysis from Environment and Climate Change Canada’s Rapid Extreme Weather Event Attribution hasshown that, in all cases, human-caused climate change made heat waves in August 2024 more likely to have occurred. In some instances, it was at least 10 times more likely.

    This system uses climate models to compare today’s climate with a pre-industrial one to explain how much human-caused climate change affected the likelihood of each heat wave.

    In three cases, human-caused climate change made heat waves far more likely to occur. This means that human influence on the climate made the following events at least 10 times more likely to happen:

    Inuvik, Northwest Territories (August 6 to 10)

    • Peak daily high temperature during the heat wave: 26.5 °C
    • Degrees above normal daily high temperature*: 13.0 °C

    Kitikmeot, Nunavut (August 7 to12)

    • Peak daily high temperature during the heat wave: 25.0 °C
    • Degrees above normal daily high temperature*: 12.4 °C

    Kivalliq, Nunavut (August 8 to 14)

    • Peak daily high temperature during the heat wave: 27.1 °C
    • Degrees above normal daily high temperature*: 12.2 °C

    In seven cases, human-caused climate change made the heat waves much more likely to occur. This means that human influence on the climate made the following events at least two to 10 times more likely to happen:

    Atlantic Canada (August 24 to 27)

    • Peak daily high temperature during the heat wave: 23.9 °C
    • Degrees above normal daily high temperature*: 6.7 °C

    Eastern Ontario (July 31 to August 2)

    • Peak daily high temperature during the heat wave: 29.2 °C
    • Degrees above normal daily high temperature*: 5.8 °C

    Fort Smith, Northwest Territories (August 8 to 13)

    • Peak daily high temperature during the heat wave: 26.9 °C
    • Degrees above normal daily high temperature*: 9.2 °C

    Northern British Columbia (August 7 to 11)

    • Peak daily high temperature during the heat wave: 23.6 °C
    • Degrees above normal daily high temperature*: 7.0 °C

    Northern Quebec (August 13 to 16)

    • Peak daily high temperature during the heat wave: 23.6 °C
    • Degrees above normal daily high temperature*: 7.8 °C

    Southern Quebec (July 27 to August 3)

    • Peak daily high temperature during the heat wave: 28.3 °C
    • Degrees above normal daily high temperature*: 7.6 °C

    Yukon (August 5 to 9)

    • Peak daily high temperature during the heat wave: 24.1 °C
    • Degrees above normal daily high temperature*: 8.9 °C

    Finally, human-caused climate change made the following heat wave more likely to occur. This means that human influence on the climate made the following event at least one to two times more likely to happen.

    Manitoba (July 30 to August 1)

    • Peak daily high temperature during the heat wave: 28.3 °C
    • Degrees above normal daily high temperature*: 6.4 °C

    * The normal daily high temperature is an average over 1991–2020 of all of the region-averaged daily high temperatures in the month surrounding the event.

    Prolonged heat waves are a major contributor to more intense wildfires across Canada. The 2023 wildfires in Canada burned almost 15 million hectares of forest and cost Canadians tens of billions of dollars in damages.[1] Understanding how human influence on the climate has increased the chance of a particular heat wave, soon after it occurs, can help inform adaptation strategies and heat wave response procedures for a changing climate while the event and its impacts are still top of mind.

    We urge the public to regularly monitor weather forecasts, take all weather alerts seriously, and get prepared for weather-related events by developing an emergency plan and being ready to adjust their travel plans. Canadians can download the WeatherCAN app to receive weather alert notifications directly on their mobile devices. Alerts help Canadians prepare to face severe weather events, save lives, and reduce the impacts on property and livelihoods.

    [1] Jain, P., Barber, Q.E., Taylor, S.W. et al. Drivers and Impacts of the Record-Breaking 2023 Wildfire Season in Canada. Nature Communications 15, 6764 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-024-51154-7

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

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Minister Champagne and Executive Vice-President Vestager meet in Montréal to strengthen strategic cooperation

    Source: Government of Canada News

    Discussion topics included competition, artificial intelligence, digital partnership and research opportunities

    Discussion topics included competition, artificial intelligence, digital partnership and research opportunities

    September 25, 2024 – Montréal, Quebec

    The Canada–European Union relationship is based on shared values, a long history of close cooperation and strong people-to-people ties. As key strategic partners, Canada and the European Union share a similar vision to ensure a responsible digital transition, make our economies more competitive and create new middle-class jobs for our people.

    The Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry, met with Margrethe Vestager, the European Commission’s Executive Vice-President for A Europe Fit for the Digital Age and Commissioner for Competition, in Montréal to discuss issues of mutual interest and address bilateral and global issues, such as artificial intelligence, economic security, digital partnership, competition policy, and research and innovation.

    In the morning, Minister Champagne and Executive Vice-President Vestager attended the unveiling of the new Anyon MonarQ quantum computer at the École de technologie supérieure. The Minister highlighted how Canada and the European Union can continue to invest in talent, research and innovation to solve some of the world’s greatest challenges and build a better future for everyone.

    They also participated in a fireside chat organized by the Montreal Council on Foreign Relations, during which they discussed the close Canada–European Union relationship, ongoing challenges on the global and domestic scene, and ways Canada and the European Union can work together to build fair marketplaces and deploy safe and responsible new technologies.

    Media Relations
    Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada
    media@ised-isde.gc.ca

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: NFB proud distributor of restored version of Les ordres and other works by renowned filmmaker Michel Brault

    Source: Government of Canada News

    In 1974, Michel Brault’s feature docudrama Les ordres (Orders) was released. Today, highlighting the 50th anniversary of this major work and Cannes award winner, the National Film Board of Canada (NFB) is also pleased to announce that the version of the film restored by Éléphant: mémoire du cinéma québécois will be available for distribution at festivals, film clubs and other venues.

    50th anniversary of a masterpiece of Quebec cinema

    September 24, 2024 – Montreal – National Film Board of Canada (NFB)

    In 1974, Michel Brault’s feature docudrama Les ordres (Orders) was released. Today, highlighting the 50th anniversary of this major work and Cannes award winner, the National Film Board of Canada (NFB) is also pleased to announce that the version of the film restored by Éléphant: mémoire du cinéma québécois will be available for distribution at festivals, film clubs and other venues.

    In fact, the NFB now shares distribution rights with Éléphant on a number of works by Brault—the restored version of not just Les ordres but also Entre la mer et l’eau douce, Quand je serai parti… vous vivrez encore and the documentary series Le son des Français d’Amérique, co-directed with André Gladu.

    The NFB thanks the Brault family for entrusting it with the distribution of these works. In addition, the NFB will continue to conserve and highlight Michel Brault’s seminal, NFB-produced films as well, many of which are available on nfb.ca.

    Quotes

    “Michel Brault is one of Quebec’s greatest creators: a master of cinéma direct, a consummate cameraperson, an outstanding DOP, a director who made his mark in both drama and documentary at the NFB and in the private sector. This new distribution agreement will help the NFB bring his films to more audiences than ever, and especially to new generations. The 50th anniversary of Les ordres reminds us of the importance of such works for our collective memory.” – Suzanne Guèvremont, Government Film Commissioner and NFB Chairperson

    “The Brault family would like to express its gratitude to the NFB and its partners, Éléphant and the Cinémathèque québécoise, for their part in the promotion, conservation and protection of the exceptional legacy left to us by our father. Thank you on behalf of all of Michel’s children and grandchildren.”

    Quick Facts

    Les ordres (Orders)

    Press kit: mediaspace.nfb.ca/epk/orders

    Drawing on the testimonies of some 50 civilians who were detained after the War Measures Act was invoked in Quebec in October 1970, Les ordres (Orders) blurs the line between documentary and drama to tell the story of five fictional characters (three men and two women) from their arrest through to their release. The film won the award for Best Director at the 1975 Cannes Film Festival.

    Special screening for the film’s 50th anniversary

    Taking place Wednesday, September 25, at 6:30 p.m. at Cinéma RGFM Beloeil in Salle 1 Michel-Brault, with the Brault family and special guests in attendance.

    Information and tickets

    A film about Michel Brault

    Drawing on the NFB’s archives and supported by its team, the film Michel Brault – L’instinct de vue, written and directed by Frédérick Pelletier and co-produced by ACPAV and the NFB, is part biopic, part personal essay. It will help remind us all of Brault’s essential place in world cinema, at a time when his work and his creative approach still exert a decisive influence on filmmakers here and abroad.

    About Michel Brault (1928–2013)

    His name appears in the credits of more than 200 productions. By turns cameraman, cinematographer, director and producer, Michel Brault has been involved in four of the 10 best Canadian films of all time, either as the director or the DOP.

    He joined the NFB in 1956 and went on to shoot some 40 short or medium-length films. In addition to Claude Jutra, his main partners were Jacques Giraldeau, Fernand Dansereau, Louis-Georges Carrier, Claude Fournier and Gilles Groulx. He teamed up with the latter in 1958 to make Les Raquetteurs, a film that was to decisively impact the NFB’s French Program, which from then on championed the cinéma direct movement that Brault and his colleagues were credited with founding.

    After a stint in France working with Jean Rouch and Mario Ruspoli, Brault co-directed Pour la suite du monde and L’Acadie, l’Acadie?!? (English title: Acadia Acadia?!?, 1971) with Pierre Perrault.

    Brault’s work as cameraman and DOP was impressive, to say the least, and included Mon oncle Antoine (1971) and Kamouraska (1973), directed by Claude Jutra; Mourir à tue-tête (English title: A Scream from Silence, 1979), directed by Anne-Claire Poirier; Le Temps d’une chasse (1972) and Les Bons débarras (1979), directed by Francis Mankiewicz; Louisiane (1984), directed by Philippe de Broca; Threshold (1981), No Mercy (1986) and Dead Man Out (1989), directed by Dick Pearce; and The Great Land of Small (1986), directed by Vojtěch Jasný.

    Brault directed his first feature-length drama in 1967, Entre la mer et l’eau douce. This was followed by Les ordres (English title: Orders) in 1974, a masterpiece that won him the Best Director award at Cannes and four Canadian Film Awards, today known as the Canadian Screen Awards.

    Between 1974 and 1980, he teamed up with director André Gladu to make a 27-episode documentary series on the traditional music of North America’s French-speaking communities.

    Brault returned to fiction with Les Noces de papier (1989), Montréal vu par… (as co-director, 1991), Shabbat Shalom! (1992), Mon amie Max (1994) and Quand je serai parti… vous vivrez encore (The Long Winter, 1999).

    In 1996, he returned to the documentary format with Ozias Leduc, Painter of the Soul’s Seasons, an hour-long film on the celebrated artist, followed in 2002 by La Manic.

    Brault was honoured time and again in recognition of his contribution to cinema. The many awards he received over the years include the Prix Victor-Morin (Société Saint-Jean-Baptiste de Montréal, 1975), the Molson Prize (Canada Council for the Arts, 1980), the Quebec-Alberta Award (1986), the Prix Albert-Tessier (Les Prix du Québec, 1986), the Governor General’s Award in 1996, and the Order of Quebec (2003).

    – 30 –

    Lily Robert
    Director, Communications and Public Affairs, NFB
    C.: 514-296-8261| l.robert@nfb.ca

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: A sustainable enhancement of shoreline in Hiawatha First Nation

    Source: Government of Canada News

    News release

    Hiawatha First Nation, Ontario, September 25, 2024 —Hiawatha First Nation has received over $430,000 through the Natural Infrastructure Fund to restore more than 3 kilometers of shoreline along Rice Lake to protect wildlife and reduce shoreline erosion.

    By working with nature, the Hiawatha First Nation is supporting and protecting biodiversity and human well-being. This restoration project incorporates native plants to reduce further shoreline erosion, while creating a protected habitat for various frog and fish species, as well as wild rice, a cultural keystone species. A medicine garden, walkway, pier, and benches will also increase access to nature, boost community use of shoreline for conducting cultural practices, and create a welcoming and relaxing space for the community.

    Hiawatha First Nation is working to restore the land to not only ensure a more sustainable future, but also create a peaceful place for community members to enjoy nature and ensure the land and wildlife is protected for many generations. 

    Quotes

    “I am honoured to support this investment with the Hiawatha First Nation to restore the shoreline of Rice Lake. Investing in infrastructure, like this shoreline restoration project, is vital for the sustainability of our environment. It will support biodiversity through the restoration of the natural habitats of plants and animals and with the addition of the medicine garden, create a healthy, sustainable and welcoming environment for all community members.”

    The Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities

    “Restoring the shoreline with native species is vital for many reasons. Firstly, it is our responsibility, as given to us by the Creator, to take care of the waters, and when we restore lakeshores with native plants, we improve the health of our lakes. Shoreline restoration helps to improve water quality by removing pollutants and nutrients from run-off.  Also, by restoring our shoreline with native species, we in turn will have healthy and stable ecosystems that leads to strong habitats and food chains. Shoreline restoration is about taking care of water, lands and all living creatures.”

    Laurie Carr, Chief, Hiawatha First Nation 

    Quick facts

    • The federal government is committed to making our communities more livable, sustainable, and resilient by investing in the protection and restoration of natural environments.

    • The federal government is investing $437,500 in this project through the Natural Infrastructure Fund (NIF).

    • NIF supports projects that use natural or hybrid approaches to increase resilience to climate change, mitigate carbon emissions, protect and preserve biodiversity and wildlife habitats, and promote Canadians’ access to nature.

    • Examples of natural infrastructure include urban forests, street trees, wetlands, living dikes, bioswales, and naturalized coastal restoration.

    • Hybrid infrastructure incorporates elements of engineered grey infrastructure to enhance or support natural infrastructure and/or the use of ecosystem processes. Examples of hybrid infrastructure include green roofs and walls, and naturalized stormwater ponds.

    • A minimum of 10% of the overall program envelope will be allocated to Indigenous-led projects.

    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

    Hayley Vogler
    Capital Projects Manager
    Hiawatha First Nation
    705-295-4421
    capitalmanager@hiawathafn.ca

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: House Passes Rep. Calvert’s Stuck On Hold Act

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Ken Calvert (CA-42)

    Today, the House of Representatives passed the Stuck On Hold Act, H.R. 6656, which was introduced by Congressman Ken Calvert (CA-41). The bill would require the Veterans’ Administration (VA) to implement a new and improved customer service telephone system that informs callers of their estimated wait times and, if the wait is estimated to be longer than 10 minutes, to give the caller the option of receiving an automated call back when it is their turn in line.

    “Our veterans deserve the best, modern service when they call the VA for assistance,” said Rep. Calvert. “Veterans calling about their health care or other benefits they have earned by serving our country should not be stuck waiting endlessly on hold hoping someone answers. I’m thankful for the overwhelming support of my House colleagues for the Stuck On Hold Act and urge the Senate to take action on it quickly.”

    Earlier this year, the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs Subcommittee on Economic Opportunity held a legislative hearing on the Stuck On Hold Act. At the hearing, a number of veteran service organizations voiced their support for the bill, including Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and Disabled American Veterans (DAV).

     

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Beyer Statement on FBI Release 2023 Hate Crime Statistics

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Don Beyer (D-VA)

    Rep. Don Beyer (D-VA), author of the Improving Reporting to Prevent Hate Act, today issued the following statement on the FBI’s release of 2023 hate crimes statistics:

    “According to the FBI’s release of 2023 hate crimes statistics, only 16,009 agencies out of out of 18,800 agencies nationwide participated in hate crimes data collection. The 2023 hate crimes statistics illustrate the urgent need to improve hate crimes reporting across the country – in particular, improving accurate hate crimes reporting from law enforcement agencies representing cities with populations of 100,000 or more.

    “At a time when we are seeing the highest number of hate crime incidents against the Jewish community, we need complete and credible reporting. I wrote the Improving Reporting to Prevent Hate Act to do just that. 

    “The lack of credible and complete national hate crimes data collection poses a significant challenge to prevention efforts. Congress must take action to ensure we have accurate hate crimes data by passing the Improving Reporting to Prevent Hate Act.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Read More (Van Hollen, Cardin, Trone Announce $627,000 for Firefighters, First Responders in Western Maryland)

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative David Trone

    September 20, 2024

    For Immediate Release

    September 20, 2024

    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen and Ben Cardin and Congressman David Trone (all D-Md.) announced $627,785.49 in federal funding to support firefighters and first responders across Western Maryland. The funding will enhance emergency response capabilities through equipment and facility upgrades, ensuring better protection for the public and the volunteer firefighters. These awards come after the lawmakers previously announced $838,000 last month for Western Maryland fire departments and emergency response agencies.

    “Western Maryland residents have always been able to count on their firefighters and first responders when emergencies arise. This federal funding will help ensure local fire departments have the resources they need to continue keeping our communities safe,” said Senator Van Hollen.

    “Firefighters are beacons of their communities, providing life-saving care in our scariest moments. They have our back, and Team Maryland has theirs. We will continue to fight for funding that protects our protectors,” said Senator Cardin.

    “My responsibility on the House Appropriations Committee is to fight for and secure the funding Marylanders deserve,” said Congressman David Trone. “I’m proud Team Maryland is able to further support the firefighters and first responders keeping our communities safe.”

    The federal grants have been awarded as follows:

    1. $276,254.54 toreplace outdated hoses and nozzles at seven Allegany County Fire Departments, including Barton Fire Department, Goodwill Fire Company, Borden Shaft Volunteer Fire Department, LaVale Volunteer Fire Department, Baltimore Pike Volunteer Fire Company, Cresaptown Volunteer Fire Department, and Oldtown Volunteer Fire Department
    2. $222,035.23 to Garrett County to replace outdated fire hoses at Deep Creek Volunteer Fire Company, Oakland Volunteer Fire Department, and Gorman Fire Department
    3. $63,142.85 to Bedford Road Volunteer Fire Company in Allegany County to purchase 17 new sets of personal protective equipment
    4. $41,876.68 to Williamsport Volunteer Fire and EMS Company in Washington County to replace outdated fire hoses and nozzles and purchase two thermal imaging cameras
    5. $24,476.19 to Midland Fire Company in Allegany County to purchase a new gear washer and dryer

    The awards are provided through the Department of Homeland Security’s Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) program with funds from FY2023 annual appropriations, that the lawmakers fought to secure. The lawmakers additionally worked to reauthorize the AFG program through FY2028 within the Fire Grants and Safety Act of 2023 which passed Congress and was signed into law earlier this year.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Rose Leads Tennessee Delegation in Advocating for New Passport Office in Tennessee

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman John Rose (TN-06)

    WASHINGTON, DC— Today, U.S. Representative John Rose (TN-06) led a letter to U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken signed by the entire Tennessee U.S. House Delegation, U.S. Reps. Diana Harshbarger (TN-01), Tim Burchett (TN-02), Chuck Fleischmann (TN-03), Scott DesJarlais (TN-04), Andy Ogles (TN-05), Mark Green (TN-07), David Kustoff (TN-08), and Steve Cohen (TN-09), expressing concerns over the decision to exclude Tennessee from the list of states set to receive a new passport agency, as announced in a press release from June 2024. In the letter, which can be read in full here, the Tennessee Reps. urged Secretary Blinken to reconsider the decision.

    The letter highlighted the travel burdens Tennesseans will continue to face, despite the addition of six new passport agencies. As an example, the letter cited the four closest passport agencies from Nashville: Atlanta, GA (4 hours), Cincinnati, OH (4.5 hours), Hot Springs, AR (6 hours), and Charlotte, NC (6.5 hours).

    “Nashville’s central location makes it an ideal site for a future passport agency,” wrote the signees of the letter.The letter continued: “I strongly believe Tennessee deserves consideration for a passport agency, and I urge the State Department to reconsider its decision.I believe that establishing a passport agency in Tennessee would greatly benefit the region and align with the Department’s goal of providing prompt customer service to more Americans.”

    The letter also included a series of questions to the U.S. Department of State regarding the criteria used to select new passport office locations, including what metrics or data points were used and whether travel burdens and driving distance were factored in.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Browning Man Admits Assaulting Woman with Belt on Blackfeet Indian Reservation

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

    GREAT FALLS — A Browning man accused of beating and then using a belt to assault a woman on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation admitted to an assault charge today, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.

    The defendant, Briar Joseph Crawford, 29, pleaded guilty to assault with a dangerous weapon. Crawford faces a maximum of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release.

    Chief U.S District Judge Brian M. Morris presided. The court will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing was set for Jan. 29, 2025. Crawford was detained pending further proceedings.

    The government alleged in court documents that on Aug. 6, 2023, Crawford went to Twin Lakes go fishing with the victim, identified as Jane Doe. They got into an argument, and Crawford began to severely beat Doe over several hours as they traveled from Twin Lakes to the East Glacier Cut Across Road. At one point, Crawford removed his belt, wrapped it around Doe’s neck, grabbed it and lifted her weight off the ground until she blacked out. Doe suffered numerous injuries from the prolonged assault.

    The U.S. Attorney’s Office is prosecuting the case. The FBI and Blackfeet Law Enforcement Services conducted the investigation.

    XXX

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Billings Man Admits Arranging for Commercial Sex with Minor Girl in Undercover Investigation

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

    BILLINGS — A Billings man accused of texting with undercover law enforcement to arrange for sex with a minor girl and showing up at an agreed-upon location admitted to a racketeering crime today, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.

    The defendant, Christopher Lynn Cliburn, 60, pleaded guilty to use of facility in interstate commerce in aid of racketeering as charged in a superseding information. Cliburn faces a maximum of five years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release.

    U.S. Magistrate Judge Timothy J. Cavan presided. A sentencing date will be set before U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters. The court will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Cliburn was detained pending further proceedings.

    In court documents, the government alleged that on Nov. 16, 2023, law enforcement placed an ad on a website depicting a fictious 14-year-old girl. The ad suggested that the “girl” was willing to engage in sexual conduct for money. On Nov. 19, 2023, a phone number, later connected to Cliburn, responded to the ad. Cliburn and an undercover officer then engaged in a series of text communications in which the parties discussed meeting for commercial sex, potential sexual acts that the “girl” would perform and how much money Cliburn had. On Nov. 20, 2023, Cliburn indicated he was at the agreed-upon location in Billings and confirmed his presence by sending law enforcement a photograph.

    The U.S. Attorney’s Office is prosecuting the case. The FBI conducted the investigation.

    This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, 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 Justice.gov/PSC.

    XXX

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Oakhill — Lunenburg District RCMP charge a man with multiple offences, including impaired operation and assault

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Lunenburg District RCMP has charged a man with multiple offences after he struck several vehicles attempting to flee police. There were no injuries reported from this incident.

    On September 23 at approximately 12:15 p.m., officers responded to a report of a suspected impaired driver who was observed hitting a parked tractor in Mader’s Cove.

    Officers located the vehicle, a beige Lincoln Town Car, in Blockhouse, and attempted a traffic stop but the driver refused to stop for police and fled the area.

    At approximately 12:50 p.m., officers again located the vehicle, now pulled over on the side of Hwy. 103 near Oakhill. Officers took steps to prevent the driver from attempting to flee again and putting the public at risk. The driver struck and damaged two of the police cars involved, and continued to resist arrest after exiting his vehicle. He was safely arrested and later refused to provide a breath sample.

    Adam Vanderzwaag, 40, of Conquerall Mills, has been charged with the following:

    • Impaired Operation of a Conveyance
    • Flight from Police
    • Dangerous Operation of a Conveyance
    • Assault Peace Officer With a Weapon (2 counts)
    • Resist Arrest
    • Obstruct Justice
    • Failure or Refusal to Comply with Demand
    • Disarming a Peace Officer

    Vanderzwaag appeared at Bridgewater Provincial Court on September 24. His next court appearance is scheduled for October 23.

    Highway 103 was closed between Exits 12 and 11 following this incident, but was reopened after approximately one hour.

    Police appreciated calls from the public that assisted in identifying and locating this vehicle. Road safety is a shared responsibility. If you suspect an impaired driver, it’s an emergency; call 911.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Readout of the Secretary-General’s meeting with H.E. Lt. General Abdel-Fattah Al-Burhan Abdelrahman Al-Burhan, President of the Transitional Sovereign Council of the Republic of the Sudan

    Source: United Nations secretary general

     

    The Secretary-General met with H.E. Lt. General Abdel-Fattah Al-Burhan Abdelrahman Al-Burhan, President of the Transitional Sovereign Council of the Republic of the Sudan. The Secretary-General expressed deep concern about the escalation of the conflict in the Sudan, which continues to have a devastating impact on the Sudanese civilians and risks a regional spillover. They discussed the need for an immediate lasting ceasefire and the importance of genuine dialogue leading to an inclusive negotiated peace settlement. They also affirmed the need for urgent action to ensure rapid, safe and unhindered humanitarian access and the protection of all civilians across the Sudan. The Secretary-General welcomed the continued engagement of the Sudanese authorities with his Personal Envoy for Sudan, Mr. Ramtane Lamamra and the Humanitarian and Resident Coordinator for Sudan, Ms. Clementine Awu Nkweta-Salami.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Readout of the Secretary-General’s meeting with H.E. Mr. Khurelsukh Ukhnaa, President of Mongolia

    Source: United Nations secretary general

    The Secretary-General met with H.E. Mr. Khurelsukh Ukhnaa, President of Mongolia. The Secretary-General thanked President Khurelsukh for Mongolia’s contributions to the activities of the United Nations and for its steadfast commitment to peacekeeping operations and the Women, Peace and Security agenda.  The Secretary-General and President Khurelsukh discussed Mongolia’s contributions to global cooperation, including the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals and climate change, as well as regional peace and security issues.
     

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman David Scott Introduces Legislation for Inclusive Arts Education

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman David Scott (GA-13)

    WASHINGTON—Today, Congressman David Scott (GA-13), was joined by Representatives Mary Gay Scanlon (PA-05), Maxwell Frost (FL-10), and Donald M. Payne Jr. (NJ-10) to introduce the Reimagining Inclusive Arts Education Act. This critical piece of legislation provides professional development grants to arts educators and creative arts therapists to best include students with disabilities.

    “Students, regardless of ability or disability, deserve the right to receive a well-rounded and comprehensive education—one that is inclusive of music and arts,” said Congressman David Scott. “From music to the visual arts, theater and dance, access to arts education has shown to inspire young learners to think critically and build socialization skills with their peers. This is particularly important for students with disabilities who may struggle with finding ways to express themselves. For this reason, the Reimagining Inclusive Arts Education Act will equip arts educators and creative art therapists with the knowledge and skills to make their content accessible for all students to actively participate together.”

    “Art programs in schools can provide important benefits for intellectual development – especially for young people with disabilities,” said Rep. Mary Gay Scanlon. “Unfortunately, many schools lack basic resources and funding to maintain these programs. I’m proud to partner with Reps. Scott, Frost, and Payne on this legislation to help our schools fill the funding gaps, ensure equitable accessibility for students with disabilities, and set up our children for success in the future.”

    “I am proud to cosponsor the Reimagining Inclusive Arts Education Act to help our schools become more inclusive,” said Rep. Donald M. Payne, Jr.  “Students with disabilities need opportunities to express themselves through the arts. This bill would ensure art teachers have resources to make their curriculum more inclusive and provide opportunities to students with disabilities.”

    “As someone who grew up with music as part of my daily life, I know just how critical the arts are to self-expression and its ability to unite our community. Alongside Reps. Scott, Scanlon, and Payne, I’m proud to support the Reimaging Inclusive Arts Education Act to help expand the power of music and arts to ensure that arts education can reach every student who wants it,” said Rep. Maxwell Frost. “This legislation is an inclusive labor of love that will support our schools and help educators put arts, theater, dance, music, and more into the hands of students with disabilities.”

    “The American Music Therapy Association is very pleased to support the Reimagining Inclusive Arts Education Act,” stated Judy Simpson, Director of Government Relations. “This important legislation will support innovative and inclusive creative arts therapies for children with disabilities and will expand unique learning opportunities for students to access education and achieve academic goals.”

    “The National Association for Music Education (NAfME) is a proud supporter of the Reimagining Inclusive Arts Education Act, introduced by Congressman David Scott (GA-13). This legislation is a monumental stride towards creating an inclusive environment where every child, regardless of circumstances, can participate in the transformative power of music. By prioritizing the adaptation of classroom materials and lessons, this bill not only acknowledges the unique needs of children with disabilities but also promotes equity within the classroom. The Reimagining Inclusive Arts Education Act aligns with NAfME’s commitment to advocating for equitable access to music education and supports inclusive practices where the diverse voices of every learner are valued. This legislation is a testament to the belief that music education MUST be accessible to all, including students with disabilities. NAfME urges the 118th Congress to consider and adopt this legislation, which supports an inclusive educational landscape where every student can embrace the joy and significance that music brings to their lives,” said Scott R. Sheehan, NAfME President

    Endorsing Organizations:

    Endorsing Organizations: National Association for Music Educators, Educational Theatre Association, American Music Therapy Association, National Art Education Association, Educational Theatre Association, National Dance Education Organization, Americans for the Arts, National Center for Learning Disabilities, The National Down Syndrome Congress, Council of Administrators of Special Education, Music Teachers National Association, National Media Arts Education Association, Kindermusik International, Hip-Hop Education Center, Percussive Arts Society, J.W. Pepper, JazzSLAM, Kindermusik International, Music Travel Consultants, Georgia Music Educators Association, Michigan Music Educators Association, Montana Music Educators Association, Utah Music Educators Association, Virginia Music Educators Association, Pennsylvania Music Educators Association, Rhode Island Music Educators Association, New York State School Music Association, New Hampshire Music Educators Association, Ohio Music Educators Association, Florida Music Education Association, North Carolina Music Education Association, Oregon Music Education Association, Arts Alliance Illinois, Arts Ed NJ, Arts North Carolina, Ingenuity Inc., TASH, Cure SMA, The Viscardi Center and Henry Viscardi School, Mental Health Association of Central Florida, The Feierabend Association for Music Education, The Lang Lang International Music Foundation,  National Music Council of the United States, Guitars and Ukes in the Classroom, League of American Orchestras, Young Audiences Arts for Learning, Music Will.

    Full text of the bill can be accessed HERE.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Casten, Blumenauer Introduce Bill to Help Communities Facing Flood Damage

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Sean Casten (IL-06)

    September 25, 2024

    Washington DC — Today, Congressman Sean Casten (IL-06) and Congressman Earl Blumenauer (OR-03) introduced the Protecting Families and the Solvency of the National Flood Insurance Program Act of 2024, which would authorize the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to provide additional mitigation assistance to families affected by flooding and address the problems of delays in buyouts for communities facing repetitive losses.

    “Having spent my entire adult life fighting climate change, I am alarmed by the increased frequency and severity of flooding—devastating not only the coasts, but communities right here in the Midwest,” said Rep. Sean Casten. “In Illinois alone, there are over 400,000 homes and over 30,000 business properties with operational flooding risk. The science is crystal clear that this climate-driven devastation will only get worse and more costly, yet the National Flood Insurance Program remains woefully unprepared to meet the needs of communities hit hardest. After meeting with dozens of local mayors, municipal leaders, and first responders, I’m proud to introduce legislation to improve the buy-out program to help families facing climate-driven flood damage get the financial relief and help with voluntary relocation they need faster.”

    “Nowhere is the cost of failure more pronounced than the National Flood Insurance Program. We cannot afford to keep risking lives and taxpayer dollars by rebuilding structures in the same flood-prone areas as the climate crisis makes disasters more frequent and intense. With simple, preventative steps like my legislation with Congressman Casten, we can help disaster victims break the cycle of repetitive flood loss,” said Congressman Earl Blumenauer.

    FEMA provides funding for communities to purchase flood-prone properties and convert the land to open space. This property acquisition can be a beneficial strategy for flood mitigation. However, the buyout process poses challenges that can discourage homeowner and community participation. Currently, buyouts through the National Flood Insurance Program can take more than five years to complete through FEMA, far too long for families living in damaged and potentially hazardous houses. The bill would cut through the red tape to deliver buy-outs quicker to victims of flooding, especially in underserved communities. This bill will make buyouts more accessible, equitable, and efficient. In 2022, the Government Accountability Office conducted a study of FEMA’s buyout program and issued recommendations. One of the recommendations was to preapprove certain properties for acquisition, which is exactly what this bill does.

    Annual flooding in the U.S. costs up to $496 billion and will increase as a result of climate change, the cost of which will be borne disproportionately by disadvantaged communities. This increased frequency and severity of flooding will come not only from the coast, but from increased rainfall and riverine flooding across the country. 

    In Illinois, there are 413,129 residential properties, 50,977 miles of roads, 36,816 commercial properties, 996 infrastructure facilities, and 2,476 social facilities with operational flood risk* today.

    The Protecting Families and the Solvency of the National Flood Insurance Program Act of 2024:

    • Addresses the problem of delays in buyouts by authorizing buyouts-in-lieu-of-claim-payments in high-priority cases.
      • If the property has been identified as a repetitive loss or severe repetitive loss property
      • Has been designated by the participating community as substantially damaged.
      • Would otherwise be filing a claim for the maximum level of coverage.
      • Right now, a buyout looks at an effective floodplain.
    • Allows for additional assistance to residents who may wish to move but are unable to afford relocation by requiring FEMA to apply the special assistance provisions of the Uniform Relocation Act to buyouts.
    • Provides FEMA with authorities to provide an additional measure of mitigation assistance to currently underserved communities, in line with provisions in the Infrastructure and Jobs Act that make this allowance for the next 5 years and expands the current narrow definition of “small and impoverished” communities.
    • Incentivizes community action to address repeat flooding by offering access to and potentially a larger share of mitigation assistance funding for implementation of locally developed flood plans. 
    • Assures that FEMA assistance to address recurrent flooding, including buyout offers, is not limited to neighborhoods that have previously been mapped into FEMA-designated Special Flood Hazard Areas.

    Text of the legislation can be found here.

    The legislation has been endorsed by the Natural Resources Defense Council.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Fatal crash, Waimakariri

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Police can now advise one person has died following a crash on Depot Road, View Hill in Waimakariri.

    The single-vehicle crash was reported to Police at 8pm yesterday (25 September).

    The driver and sole occupant of the car died at the scene.

    Enquiries into the circumstances of the crash are under way.

    ENDS 

    Issued by Police Media Centre 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: 6th Annual IP Excellence in Organizing Awards

    Source: US GOIAM Union

    During the 41st IAM Convention, the 6th Annual International President’s Excellence in Organizing Awards were presented to celebrate a historic achievement in the realm of union organizing—a triumph that embodies the spirit of solidarity, determination, and collective action. It is with great pride and admiration that we honor these Districts for their outstanding contributions to organizing efforts within our union in the year 2023.

    Accepting the award for his district and himself, District 751 Organizer Jesse Cote II

    Western Territory – District 751

    District 751 has emerged as a true leader in the field of union organizing, achieving an unprecedented milestone of organizing 282 new members. Notably, the first private sector acute care organizing victory in healthcare, with 211 new members joining our ranks.

    The success of District 751 in organizing new members within the healthcare sector demonstrates the immense potential of collective action and solidarity in improving the lives of workers across diverse industries. By securing a foothold in the private sector acute care field, District 751 has not only strengthened our union but also paved the way for future organizing victories and advancements in workers’ rights.

    Western Territory – Jesse Cote II

    Cote emerged as a true champion of workers’ rights, leading an impressive eight successful organizing campaigns. Among these victories was a landmark campaign at MultiCare Good Samaritan Hospital—an achievement that not only strengthened our union but also empowered hundreds of workers to stand together for fair wages, benefits, and working conditions.

    Throughout Cote’s tenure as a union organizer, he has been a tireless advocate for workers’ rights, a mentor to aspiring organizers, and a steadfast voice for social justice in our communities. Cote’s passion for the cause, his unwavering commitment to our union, and his relentless pursuit of fairness and equality serve as an inspiration to us all.

    Accepting the award for District 78 – ST Mona Burke and Organizer Rootisha Rampat. Territory Grand Lodge Representative Scott Jackson accepting his award.

    Canadian Territory – District 78

    District 78 is one of the most diverse districts in all of Canada. Due to the many contracts they service, they have come up with some unique ways of signing up new members. District 78 shares information with all the other districts in Canada, as well as in the US, in order to constantly “up” their game. District 78 received or shared organizing awards consistently in recent years, and 2023 was no exception. 

    Healthcare, automotive, as well as manufacturing, trucking and labor staff groups are all industries and sectors where they have been feverishly active. The entire teams’ “all hands-on deck” approach has grown the IAM.

    Canadian Territory – Grand Lodge Representative Scott Jackson

    Jackson cut his union teeth in Local 901 in Ajax, Ontario, where he worked as a Machinist rising to the position of local President. Jackson widened the net and expanded the membership to include many diverse groups – including healthcare and labor staff groups. He was appointed Territorial Organizing Leader for Canada in 2020 and has helped to intensify the focus on organizing throughout his many roles and this continues today. With new organizers and new energy, he is helping make the IAM one of the most successful Unions in Canada – and across North America.

    Accepting the award for District 15 DBR and Organizer Norm Shreve and Business Rep and Organizer Cristino Vilorio.

    Eastern Territory – District 15

    This District had a busy 2023! With a 4-2 record. Unit sizes ranged from 15-80 people. Accepting the award is – District 15 Directing Business Representative and Organizer Norm Shreve and Business Representative and Organizer Cristino Vilorio.

    Accepting his award, Special Representative Brent Coleman.

    Eastern Territory – Special Representative Brent Coleman

    While at District 1 as the District Organizer, in 2023, Coleman inspired over 100 members from various fields of work to organize. From service contracts to Vet Techs and IT Professionals. He won them all in 2023. 

    Accepting the award for District 141, Organizer Frank Giannola

    Air Transportation Territory – District 141

    This District is a force to be reckoned with. Their Organizer has made it his mission, along with their organizing team, to organize the organized and to organize the unorganized. Making organizing a top priority, this District continues to grow its membership in the Air Transport Territory.

    Accepting her award, Organizer Tiffany Lopez.

    Air Transportation Territory – Associate Organizer Tiffany Lopez

    Lopez began her organizing career with Air Transport in January 2023 and hit the ground running. Determined to make a difference, she quickly formed an in-house committee for Delta Airlines in Detroit and Minneapolis. She thinks outside the box and constantly searches for new ideas to attract new interactions with those she seeks to organize.

    Accepting the awards for District 1888 and himself, Business Rep and Organizer Ryan McCarthy

    Southern Territory – District 1888

    In 2023 the Southern Territory added over 1,000 members in organizing efforts. District 1888 led the way, not only in the Southern Territory, but in the IAM. Directing Business Representative Ernie Epps and his staff Assistant Directing Business Representative Bill Benson, Business Representative Keith McFarland, Business Representative Ryan McCarthy, Business Representative Billy Givens and Business Representative Chris Harrington added over 600 new members to their District and continue to develop a culture of Organizing that is consistent year to year, this model is an example for all to follow. This District is a great example of the commitment needed in organizing our union into the future.

    Southern Territory – District 1888 Business Representative and Organizer Ryan McCarthy

    In 2023 McCarthy led 332 Lockheed Martin workers at Bluegrass Station, Ky., to a victory. This was a campaign that was hard fought, with many obstacles and a not so friendly employer. McCarthy knew he would need some help and in true Machinists fashion his brothers, sisters, and siblings showed up to help. The team consisted of many dedicated organizers from District 1888, District 776, and the Southern Territory Representatives and Associate Organizers. McCarthy continues to do a Journeyman’s Job to grow the IAM and we look forward to the increased organizing opportunities from this historic victory.

    Accepting the award for District 5 and on behalf of Jeremy Pearson is District Business Rep and Organizer Jeff Hoopman.

    Midwest Territory – District 5

    District 5 is the embodiment of what it means to organize with intention. In 2023, with Grand Lodge Representative Dennis Mendenhall leading, District 5 successfully organized Vaderstad Industries Inc., a 100-person unit that manufactures Agricultural Equipment in Wahpeton, North Dakota. To date, this District has continued organizing both externally and internally. This District’s success is a testament to our collective efforts and commitment, fostering a sense of unity and shared achievement.

    Midwest Territory – District 5 Directing Business Representative Jeremy Pearson

    Pearson’s persistent commitment to his members is better reflected in his work, whether servicing or organizing. He does this with passion and humility, which makes him a compelling and relatable organizer. In late 2023, his versatile approach allowed him to successfully organize Kay & Associates Inc., a group of aviation technicians in South Dakota. His deep dedication to growing our union motivates him to look for opportunities to organize.

    Accepting the award for the Southern Territory is General Vice President Craig Martin

    IAM Top Territory Organizing Distinction 

    The Southern Territory had 14 organizing wins in 2023! Four of those wins were triple digit units, including 332, 248, 176 and 164 new members The Southern Territory successfully organized 1,150 people in 2023!

    Ali Rhodes accepting her awards for Top HQ Organizer and Top IAM Organizer.

    IAM Headquarters Organizer of the Year & the 2023 Top IAM Organizer of the Year Award: Grand Lodge Representative Ali Rhodes

    Rhodes ran a very strategic and comprehensive campaign leading to a monumental victory by successfully organizing nearly 1,000 Patient Care Associates and Psychiatric Care Technicians at the Ohio State University’s Wexner Medical Center! Rhodes started her IAM career with ExpressJet Airlines in 2011. Over the years, she became actively involved in our union – first as an auditor and later as a committee chairperson. She dedicated her time to organizing, lobbying, and furthering her education at the Winpisinger Center and Eastern Gateway Community College.

    Equipped with her union education and determination to protect fellow workers, she was appointed as a Special Representative with the Organizing Department in 2018.

    “I’ve had the privilege to work closely with this individual during that time and nobody is more committed to growing our Union and helping to improve the lives of workers than her,” said IAM Assistant Organizing Director Juan Eldridge 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: McCaul Urges the Admin to Secure the Release of Americans Detained by the Taliban

    Source: US House Committee on Foreign Affairs

    Media Contact 202-226-8467

    Washington, D.C. – Today, House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Michael McCaul issued the following statement urging the Biden-Harris administration to take immediate action to secure the release of Ryan Corbett, George Glezmann, and Mahmood Habibi.

    “Since the Biden-Harris administration’s disastrous withdrawal from Afghanistan, the Taliban have been emboldened to engage in hostage diplomacy. The Taliban is holding at least three American citizens in Afghanistan. This administration needs to do more to force the Taliban to admit they are holding Mahmood Habibi, clarify what role al Qaeda plays in his detention, and bring Ryan Corbett, George Glezmann, and Mahmood home safely as soon as possible. We cannot allow the terrorist Taliban regime to harm any more Americans.”

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Translation: Minister Champagne meets with Executive Vice-President Vestager in Montreal to strengthen strategic cooperation

    MIL OSI Translation. Canadian French to English –

    Source: Government of Canada – in French

    Topics discussed included competition, artificial intelligence, digital partnerships and research opportunities.

    Topics discussed included competition, artificial intelligence, digital partnerships and research opportunities.

    September 25, 2024 – Montreal (Quebec)

    The Canada-European Union relationship is based on shared values, long-standing close cooperation and strong people-to-people ties. As key strategic partners, Canada and the European Union share a similar vision to ensure a responsible digital transition, make their economies more competitive and create jobs for the middle class.

    The Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry, the Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, met in Montreal with the Executive Vice-President of the European Commission for a Europe Fit for the Digital Age and Commissioner for Competition, Margrethe Vestager, to discuss topics of mutual interest as well as bilateral and global issues, including artificial intelligence, economic security, digital partnerships, competition policy, and research and innovation.

    In the morning, they attended the unveiling of Anyon’s new MonarQ quantum computer at the École de technologie supérieure. The Minister emphasized that by continuing to invest in talented people, research and innovation, Canada and the European Union can solve some of the world’s greatest challenges and build a better future for the benefit of the community.

    Minister Champagne and Executive Vice-President Vestager also participated in an informal discussion organised by the Montreal Council on Foreign Relations, during which they discussed the close relationship between Canada and the European Union, ongoing challenges on the global and domestic stage, and the collaboration that Canada and the European Union can demonstrate to establish fair markets and safe and responsible technologies.

    Audrey MilettePress SecretaryOffice of the Minister of Innovation, Science and Industryaudrey.milette@ised-isde.gc.ca

    Media RelationsInnovation, Science and Economic Development Canadamedia@ised-isde.gc.ca

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

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI Translation: The NFB is proud to distribute the restored print of Michel Brault’s film Les ordres and other works by the filmmaker

    MIL OSI Translation. Canadian French to English –

    Source: Government of Canada – in French

    In 1974, Michel Brault’s feature film Les ordres was released. The National Film Board of Canada would like to mark the 50th anniversary of this masterpiece, which won an award at Cannes, and announces the distribution of the version restored by Éléphant: mémoire du cinéma québécois to festivals, film clubs and other venues.

    The 50th anniversary of this masterpiece of Quebec cinema will also be celebrated.

    September 23, 2024 – Montreal – National Film Board of Canada (NFB)

    In 1974, the feature film The orders, by Michel Brault, was launched. The National Film Board of Canada wishes to highlight the 50th anniversary of this masterpiece, awarded at Cannes, and announces the distribution of the restored version by Elephant: memory of Quebec cinema at festivals, film clubs and other venues.

    The NFB now shares with Elephant the distribution rights to several of Michel Brault’s works, including restored versions of the films Les ordres, Entre la mer et l’eau douce, Quand je serai parti… vous vivrez encore and the documentary series Le son des Français d’Amérique, co-directed with André Gladu.

    The NFB thanks the Brault family for their trust in distributing these works, and continues to preserve and promote Michel Brault’s films produced at the NFB, which are significant for our cinematography and many of which are available on nfb.ca.

    Quotes

    “Michel Brault is one of the greatest creators of Quebec cinema: a master of direct cinema, a virtuoso of the camera, an exceptional director of photography, a notable director in both documentary and fiction, at the NFB and in the private sector. This new distribution agreement allows the NFB to make its films ever more accessible, particularly to new generations. The 50th anniversary of the Ordres reminds us of the importance of such works for our collective memory.” — Suzanne Guèvremont, Government Film Commissioner and Chair of the NFB

    “The Brault family would like to express its gratitude to the NFB and its partners, Éléphant and the Cinémathèque québécoise, for their participation in the promotion, conservation and protection of the exceptional heritage that our father left us. Thank you on behalf of all of Michel’s children and grandchildren.”

    Quick facts

    The orders

    Press kit: spacemedia.onf.ca/epk/les-ordres

    Halfway between fiction and documentary, Les ordres is based on the testimony of around fifty people imprisoned following the application of war measures in October 1970. We follow five characters (three men and two women) constructed from these testimonies, from their arrest to their release. The film won the Best Director award at the Cannes Film Festival in 1975.

    Special screening for the film’s 50th anniversary

    Wednesday, September 25 at 6:30 p.m. at the RGFM Beloeil Cinema in room 1 Michel-Brault, in the presence of the Brault family and guests of honor

    Information and ticketing

    Production underway of a film on Michel Brault

    The movie Michel Brault – The instinct of sight, written and directed by Frédérick Pelletier and co-produced by the ACPAV and the NFB, will be a documentary halfway between a biography and a personal essay, enriched in particular by the support of the NFB archives team. This film will help to reaffirm Michel Brault’s essential place in world cinema, while his work and his ways of doing things still exert a decisive influence on filmmakers here and elsewhere.

    About Michel Brault (1928-2013)

    His name appears in the credits of nearly two hundred productions. In turn cameraman, director of photography, director and producer, Michel Brault has, among other things, participated, either as director or director of photography, in four of the ten best Canadian films of all time.

    In 1956, Michel Brault joined the NFB, where he shot some forty short and medium-length films. In addition to Claude Jutra, his main partners were Jacques Giraldeau, Fernand Dansereau, Louis-Georges Carrier, Claude Fournier and Gilles Groulx. It was with the latter that he co-directed in 1958 The snowshoers, film which would have a decisive influence on the French team of the NFB: the latter would resolutely commit itself to the path of the direct movement, of which Brault, with his colleagues, is now credited with paternity.

    After a stay in France where he filmed with Jean Rouch and Mario Ruspoli, Michel Brault directed with Pierre Perrault For the rest of the world And Acadia, Acadia?!

    Michel Brault’s work as cameraman and director of photography is impressive: My uncle Antoine (1971) and Kamouraska (1973) by Claude Jutra; Die at the top of your lungs (1979) by Anne-Claire Poirier; The time of a hunt (1972) and Good Riddance (1979) by Francis Mankiewicz; Louisiana (1984) by Philippe de Broca; Threshold (1981), No Mercy (1986) and Dead Man Out (1989) by Dick Pearce; The Great Land of Small (1986) by Vojtěch Jasný.

    Michel Brault made his first feature-length fiction film in 1967, with Entre la mer et l’eau douce. He then directed Les ordres (1974), a masterful film that earned him the Best Director award at the Cannes Film Festival and four awards at the Palmarès du film canadien (predecessor of the Canadian Screen Awards).

    From 1974 to 1980, Michel Brault, with the filmmaker André Gladu, undertook the production of a 27-episode documentary series on the traditional music of French-speaking America.

    Then, he returned to fiction with Les noces de papier (1989), Montréal vu par… (co-directed, 1991), Shabbat Shalom! (1992), Mon amie Max (1994) and Quand je suis disparu… vous vivrez encore (1999). Michel Brault returned to documentary in 1996 with Ozias Leduc… like space and time, a one-hour film about the famous painter, then, in 2002, with La Manic.

    Michel Brault has received, for his entire body of work, the Victor-Morin Prize (Société Saint-Jean-Baptiste de Montréal, 1975), the Molson Prize (Canada Council for the Arts, 1980), the Québec-Alberta Prize (1986), the Albert-Tessier Prize (Les Prix du Québec, 1986), the Governor General’s Award (1996) and the National Order of Québec (2003).

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    Lily RobertDirector, Communications and Public Affairs, ONFCell.: 514-296-8261l.robert@nfb.ca

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

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI Translation: Sustainable Riverbank Improvements in Hiawatha First Nation

    MIL OSI Translation. Canadian French to English –

    Source: Government of Canada – in French

    Press release

    Hiawatha First Nation, Ontario, September 25, 2024 — Hiawatha First Nation has been allocated more than $430,000 through the Natural Infrastructure Fund to restore more than 3 kilometres of shoreline along Rice Lake to protect wildlife and reduce shoreline erosion.

    By working with nature, Hiawatha First Nation supports and protects biodiversity and human well-being. This restoration project involves integrating native plants to reduce shoreline erosion while creating protected habitat for various frog and fish species, as well as the culturally significant wild rice. A medicinal plant garden, boardwalk, pier and benches will also provide easier access to nature, promote use of the shoreline for community cultural practices, and create a welcoming and relaxing space for the community.

    Hiawatha First Nation is working to restore the land not only to ensure a more sustainable future, but also to create a peaceful place where community members can enjoy nature and ensure the land and wildlife are protected for many generations to come.

    Quotes

    “I am honoured to support this investment in the shoreline restoration of Rice Lake in partnership with Hiawatha First Nation. Investing in infrastructure, such as this shoreline restoration project, is essential to ensuring the sustainability of our environment. This project will support biodiversity through the restoration of natural habitats for plants and animals and, through the development of a medicinal plant garden, will create a healthy, sustainable and welcoming environment for all members of the community.”

    The Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities

    “Restoring shorelines with native species is essential for many reasons. First, it is our Creator’s responsibility to care for our waters, and when we restore lakeshores with native plants, we improve the health of our lakes. Shoreline restoration helps improve water quality by removing pollutants and nutrients from runoff. Additionally, restoring shorelines with native species creates healthy, stable ecosystems, which strengthen habitats and food chains. Shoreline restoration is about caring for the water, the land, and all living creatures.”

    Laurie Carr, Chief, Hiawatha First Nation

    Quick Facts

    The federal government is committed to making our communities more liveable, sustainable and resilient by investing in the protection and restoration of natural environments.

    The federal government is investing $437,500 in this project through the Natural Infrastructure Fund (NIF).

    The Natural Infrastructure Fund supports projects that use natural or hybrid approaches to increase resilience to climate change, reduce carbon emissions, protect and preserve biodiversity and wildlife habitat, and promote Canadians’ access to nature.

    Examples of natural infrastructure include urban forests, street trees, wetlands, living seawalls, biological seawalls, and naturalized coastal restoration.

    Hybrid infrastructure incorporates elements of artificial grey infrastructure to enhance or support natural infrastructure and/or the use of ecosystem processes. Examples of hybrid infrastructure include green roofs and walls, and naturalized storm basins.

    A minimum of 10% of the overall program envelope will be allocated to projects led by Indigenous people.

    Related links

    Contact persons

    For further information (media only), please contact:

    Sofia OuslisCommunications AdvisorOffice of the Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and CommunitiesSofia.ouslis@infc.gc.ca

    Media Relations Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada613-960-9251Toll free: 1-877-250-7154Email:media-medias@infc.gc.caFollow us onTwitter,Facebook,InstagramAndLinkedInWebsite:Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada

    Hayley Vogler Manager, Capital ProjectsHiawatha First Nation705-295-4421capitalmanager@hiawathafn.ca

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

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI Security: Two Men Sentenced to Prison for Armed Robbery of a Check-Cashing Business

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

    ALEXANDRIA, Va. – Two men have been sentenced to prison for the armed robbery of a check-cashing business in Chantilly.

    According to court documents, on Nov. 18, 2023, Antonio Chester Lewis, 49, of Oxon Hill, Maryland, and Al Gibran Taylor, 42, of Reston, entered the store intending to rob it of its cash. Lewis had entered the store previously to survey it. Lewis was armed with a .223/5.56 mm caliber semi-automatic rifle, which he pointed at customers and ordered them to put their hands in the air. Taylor attempted to open a cashier booth, which contained the store’s register and safe. When Taylor found the booth locked, Lewis identified the store’s cashier, grabbed her by the neck, and brought her to the cashier booth. The cashier opened the booth, and Taylor removed a large amount of cash from the store’s safe.

    Lewis was arrested on March 26. That day, law enforcement conducted a search of Lewis’ residence and recovered the rifle used during the robbery as well as a privately made firearm with no serial number, a shotgun, and ammunition. On April 4, law enforcement also searched Lewis’ vehicle and recovered a handgun and additional ammunition.

    On June 13, Lewis pled guilty to interference with commerce by robbery and unlawful possession of a firearm. Lewis was sentenced on Sept. 3 to 15 years and eight months in prison.

    On June 21, Taylor pled guilty to use of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence. Taylor was sentenced today to 25 years in prison.

    Both Lewis and Taylor have multiple prior convictions. On Aug. 9, 1994, Lewis was convicted of possession with intent to distribute cocaine. On May 30, 1997, he was convicted of possession with intent to distribute cocaine while armed. On Oct. 20, 2005, Lewis was convicted in the Eastern District of Virginia for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of cocaine base. As a previously convicted felon, Lewis cannot legally possess a firearm or ammunition.

    Taylor previously was convicted in the Eastern District of Virginia on Dec. 21, 2006, of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence during which the firearm was discharged. On June 30, 2006, Taylor was convicted in the Eastern District of Virginia of possession of a firearm after having been convicted of a felony.

    Jessica D. Aber, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; David E. Geist, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Washington Field Office’s Criminal and Cyber Division; and Kevin Davis, Fairfax County Chief of Police, made the announcement after Taylor was sentenced by U.S. District Chief Judge Leonie M. Brinkema.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel K. Amzallag prosecuted the case.

    A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Cases No. 1:24-cr-139 and 1:24-cr-130.

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