NewzIntel.com

Category: AM-NC

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Wicker Reintroduces Bill to Develop National Broadband Strategy

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Mississippi Roger Wicker
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., today reintroduced the Proper Leadership to Align Networks (PLAN) for Broadband Act. The legislation requires the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) to develop a national strategy to close the digital divide, as well as a plan to implement this strategy. Previous reports from the Government Accountability Office found that federal broadband efforts are fragmented and overlapping. The office has recommended that the executive branch develop the national broadband strategy outlined in this bill.
    “Under the previous administration, broadband programs were utterly mismanaged, keeping resources out of the communities that need reliable internet connection the most. The PLAN for Broadband Act would prevent wasteful spending and help streamline communication and coordination between the agencies tasked with rolling out broadband initiatives,” Senator Wicker said.
    The full text of the legislation can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch Speaks on the Senate Floor About the Ceasefire in Gaza

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) last night took to the Senate floor to express his relief by the announcement of a ceasefire in Gaza and stress the importance of creating a viable, secure, independent, and demilitarized Palestinian state.  
    Senator Welch emphasized that there is no solution that offers lasting peace, and continued U.S. support, other than two independent states. 
    Watch Senator Welch’s speech below: 
    Senator Welch’s remarks, as delivered, can be read here and below: 
    “Like all of us I was enormously relieved by the announcement of a ceasefire in Gaza, the gradual release of hostages, and a surge in humanitarian aid for the two million desperate Palestinians who are trapped inside Gaza.   
    “Despite the daunting challenges ahead and the many factors that could derail negotiations to implement Stage Two of the agreement, I’m cautiously hopeful that this could be the beginning of the end of a war that has traumatized millions of Palestinians and Israelis for more than 16 months.   
    “There will come a time for the accounting of the conduct of the war, which has caused such appalling loss of Palestinian and Israeli lives, including tens of thousands of children, of health workers, aid workers, and journalists, and massive destruction of property, including practically every hospital, every school, and university in Gaza. These things must not be forgotten, and that means investigating and holding people accountable under the laws of war.     
    “But today, I want to speak briefly on an issue that is key to the lasting peace between Palestinians and Israelis that we seek. And that is the creation of a viable, secure, independent, and demilitarized Palestinian state. 
    “The war in Gaza was triggered, of course, by the merciless slaughter on October 7, 2023, of 1,200 innocent Israelis, Americans and others, and the abduction of some 250 hostages, many of whom have died.  But as we all know, the Middle East conflict began many decades earlier. And some would say centuries ago. Ethnic hatred and religious intolerance passed down from one generation to the next have fueled seemingly endless violence perpetrated by extremists on both sides. And it’s created a chronic state of insecurity for Israelis, and insecurity and humiliation, poverty, and hopelessness for Palestinians.  
    “In the West Bank, Israel’s ever-expanding settlement construction—in violation of UN resolutions and contrary to U.S. policy—has created a patchwork of separate and unequal enclaves and illegal outposts, provoking frequent acts of deadly violence by Israeli settlers and also by Palestinian extremists.  
    “Gaza, with the overt support of the Netanyahu government, became an open-air prison for two million impoverished Palestinians dependent on international aid and under the ruthless control of Hamas.   
    “And throughout this period, the wealthy Arab states have called for a Palestinian state. But they have expended minimal political capital or resources in furtherance of that goal. A lot of talk, very little action. 
    “Successive Palestinian leaders have squandered opportunities to make necessary political and economic reforms, while Mr. Netanyahu has worked to create conditions on the ground that would actually make a Palestinian state impossible. 
    “Despite this grim reality—and it is a grim reality—the attention focused on the remarkable life of President Jimmy Carter after his death on December 29th, reminded us that even in the most difficult circumstances peace is possible between long-standing enemies. It happened. But that possibility depends on the quality of leadership. 
    “If there ever were a time when the leaders of Israel, the Palestinian Authority, their Arab neighbors, and the United States should put the interests of regional peace and economic cooperation and development, including an independent Palestinian state, over personal and political ambition—it is now. It is now. 
    “Gaza is in ruins. Hamas and Hezbollah—still a threat—pose less of a threat than at any time in recent history. The horrific Assad regime is gone. Iran is also weaker. Most Israelis, Palestinians, Lebanese, Syrians want peace. But given the absence of visionary and courageous leaders in Israel and the Palestinian Authority, the possibility that a path to a Palestinian state will emerge really does depend on the Trump Administration using its diplomatic influence far more forcefully and effectively than previous U.S. administrations—including the first Trump Administration—were willing to do.   
    “We’ve got to act. And it will require the same of Congress, which in the past has restricted itself to enacting tighter and tighter sanctions on the Palestinians causing increasing desperation and resentment for innocent Palestinians, while at the same time, opposing any incentives on Israel to stop settlement construction and settler violence. 
    “There are those who believe that because of Israel’s construction of settlements, walls, fences, separate highways, factories, and farms in the West Bank, that the West Bank and Gaza can never be reconfigured into a viable Palestinian state. Having seen a current map of the West Bank, I can certainly understand that. 
    “But others reject the very idea of a Palestinian state as incompatible with Israel’s security, without proposing any alternative that would preserve Israel as a democracy in which all its citizens, regardless of ethnicity; religion, have equal rights. Given Hamas’ horrific attack on October 7th, I can also easily understand that. 
    “Then, on January 25th, President Trump called for “cleaning out” of Gaza, suggesting that a million and half Palestinians should be resettled in Jordan and Egypt. And you know, seriously, there’s just so many things wrong and unrealistic with that reprehensible and unworkable idea that it barely deserves a response, beyond the predictable and immediate repudiation by all those who would be impacted. It’s not serious. 
    “But to me, as elusive as it may seem, there really is no solution that offers lasting peace, and continued U.S. support, other than two independent states—Israel and Palestine, side-by-side. A Palestinian state will only be possible if both sides are pressured to make the difficult compromises both sides they so far refused to make. And only the United States and our heretofore reluctant Arab allies can exert the kind of pressure that’s necessary to bring people to an agreement. 
    “Mr. President, there have been far too many missed opportunities and disappointments since the Oslo and Camp David Accords, and far too much needless death and destruction resulting from the unchecked ambitions of leaders motivated by their worst instincts. History will judge us whether we seize this moment to finally chart a different course. A course that does enable Israelis and Palestinians to finally accept that there is no turning back the clock, that both are there to stay, and that as many Palestinian and Israeli neighbors have shown throughout years of conflict and loss, they have far more in common than their differences.  
    “Mr. President, I yield back.” 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch Grills Nominee for FBI Director Kash Patel on Election Denialism: “What’s so hard about just saying that Biden won the 2020 election?”

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.), a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, today grilled Kash Patel, President Trump’s nominee to be the Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI), about his refusal to acknowledge that President Biden won the 2020 Presidential Election. Senator Welch highlighted that Trump’s ‘Big Lie’ that President Biden did not win the election led to the January 6th insurrection on the U.S. Capitol. Senator Welch also stressed the importance of combatting any attempt to weaponize the Justice Department and the FBI under the Trump Administration. 
    Sen. Welch: “What’s so hard about just saying that Biden won the 2020 election? What’s hard about that?” 
    Mr. Patel: “Senator, as I’ve said before, that President Biden was certified and sworn in, and he was the president. I don’t know how else to say it.”  Sen. Welch:“Well, the other way to say it is he won.” 
    Watch the exchange between Senator Welch and Kash Patel during Mr. Patel’s confirmation hearing on his nomination to be the next Director of the FBI: 
    Read key excerpts of the exchange: 
    Senator Peter Welch: Let me tell you the source of my ongoing concern, which I regret it sometimes does not seem to be a common concern. We had a catastrophe for our democracy on January 6th…It troubles me that so many people have difficulty saying that Biden won the election…What’s so hard about just saying that Biden won the 2020 election? What’s hard about that? 
    Kash Patel, Nominee for FBI Director: Senator, as I’ve said before, that President Biden was certified and sworn in, and he was the president. I don’t know how else to say it.  Welch:Well, the other way to say it is he won. 
    Patel:He was the president. 
    Welch: The other way to say it is he won. I can say Trump won. I didn’t vote for him—but he won. Al Gore said Bush won when they were having that recount in Florida. And we have had a peaceful transfer of power here in very contested elections. I’ll just be very direct with you about why I think this is of consequence. Donald Trump has never acknowledged that he lost in 2020, and he invited people to come to the Capitol on January 6th to ‘stop the steal’. After that happened, police officers died. People were injured. It created enormous, ongoing bitterness within the country. That’s your boss. Do you believe that the 2020 election was stolen as President Trump says it is? 
    Patel: My opinions on the 2020 election have been expressed in this hearing and he’s entitled to whatever opinions he wants. 
    Welch: Do you agree with him that the election was stolen in 2020? 
    Patel: Millions of Americans have expressed concern going back to multiple elections over election integrity. 
    Welch: You know, you’re so skillful. You understand what I’m asking you. Can you say the words: Joe Biden won the 2020 election? 
    Patel: Joe Biden was the president of the United States. 
    Welch: I’m just saying this: there’s a difference. I can say the words ‘Donald Trump won.’ I don’t like to say it, but I must say it. And you cannot say that Joe Biden won the election. 
    Patel: What I can say is the same for both of them, Senator. Both of their elections were certified, and one was, and one now is president. 
    •••
     Welch: Bottom line here: you’re going to have tough job. And you’re going to have a tough boss, because he gets it in his mind he wants to do something, nothing gets in the way. And there’s going to come a time when an FBI Director, or an Attorney General, has to make a decision about the Constitution and what is being requested, and can that person at that time—when the important values of the Constitution are at stake—say no to a person who is insisting you take an action? 
    Patel: Senator, that’s why I think it’s time, for the first time in this country’s history, that a public defender be the next Director of the FBI because no one knows more about the Constitution and due process than PD’s. 
    Welch: Well, you know you’re appealing to mutual pride here, with a public defender. But you know what? I still understand you didn’t answer the question. That’s the public defender in me, ok?  
    And I say this to my colleagues: We cannot have a weaponized Justice Department or FBI. What’s weaponized is in the eye of the beholder, like the prosecutions of President Trump, and I get that. We cannot, cannot have it. But what I think we all have to acknowledge, when we’ve got a president who’s basically saying a political enemy—whether it’s [Kamala] Harris, whether it’s Liz Cheney, whether it’s Adam Schiff—should be prosecuted, that’s doing damage to the mutual goal we have of not weaponizing a department. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Apple reports first quarter results

    Source: Apple

    Headline: Apple reports first quarter results

    Apple periodically provides information for investors on its corporate website, apple.com, and its investor relations website, investor.apple.com. This includes press releases and other information about financial performance, reports filed or furnished with the SEC, information on corporate governance, and details related to its annual meeting of shareholders.

    This press release contains forward-looking statements, within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements include without limitation those about payment of the Company’s quarterly dividend and future business plans. These statements involve risks and uncertainties, and actual results may differ materially from any future results expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Risks and uncertainties include without limitation: effects of global and regional economic conditions, including as a result of government policies, geopolitical tensions, conflict, terrorism, natural disasters, and public health issues; risks relating to the design, manufacture, introduction, and transition of products and services in highly competitive and rapidly changing markets, including from reliance on third parties for components, technology, manufacturing, applications, support, and content; risks relating to information technology system failures, network disruptions, and failure to protect, loss of, or unauthorized access to, or release of, data; and effects of unfavorable legal proceedings, government investigations, and complex and changing laws and regulations. More information on these risks and other potential factors that could affect the Company’s business, reputation, results of operations, financial condition, and stock price is included in the Company’s filings with the SEC, including in the “Risk Factors” and “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” sections of the Company’s most recently filed periodic reports on Form 10-K and Form 10-Q and subsequent filings. The Company assumes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date they are made.

    About Apple

    Apple revolutionized personal technology with the introduction of the Macintosh in 1984. Today, Apple leads the world in innovation with iPhone, iPad, Mac, AirPods, Apple Watch, and Apple Vision Pro. Apple’s six software platforms — iOS, iPadOS, macOS, watchOS, visionOS, and tvOS — provide seamless experiences across all Apple devices and empower people with breakthrough services including the App Store, Apple Music, Apple Pay, iCloud, and Apple TV+. Apple’s more than 150,000 employees are dedicated to making the best products on earth and to leaving the world better than we found it.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: OPEC Fund and Mauritania strengthen cooperation with US$120 million-partnership agreement

    Source: The OPEC Fund for International Development

    January 30, 2025: The OPEC Fund for International Development (OPEC Fund) and the Islamic Republic of Mauritania have signed a landmark Country Partnership Framework Agreement to cooperate on key development initiatives during the period 2025-2027, earmarking US$120 million in new development financing focusing on the country’s development priorities.

    The funding will finance critical projects that contribute to projects promoting renewable energy, clean water, food security, improved transport and clean cooking. In addition the OPEC Fund is pledging to provide up to US$500,000 in grants for capacity-building, project preparation and technical assistance.

    OPEC Fund President Abdulhamid Alkhalifa said during a visit to the capital Nouakchott: “We are proud to help improve the lives of people and communities for a more resilient future.

    Our commitment to Mauritania is focused on bolstering key sectors of the economy. Technical assistance and strong project preparation are vital to mobilize additional development funding, enable public-private partnerships (PPPs) and attract private sector investment.”

    An OPEC Fund delegation led by President Alkhalifa is visiting Mauritania from January 30-31, 2025. The delegation expects to meet Mauritanian President Mohamed Ould Ghazouani, Prime Minister El Moctar Ould Djay, Minister of Economy and Finance Sid’Ahmed Ould Bouh and other government officials to discuss implementation of the Country Partnership Framework Agreement and explore opportunities for further cooperation.

    The OPEC Fund’s financing will support key projects that align with the country’s objectives of advancing clean energy, food security, water & sanitation while supporting sustainable and inclusive development and strengthening infrastructure for women and youth in particular. Joint initiatives also aim to strengthen Mauritania’s PPP regulatory framework and boost private sector investment.

    The Country Partnership Framework Agreement underscores the longstanding relationship between the OPEC Fund and Mauritania, with more than US$250 million in loans provided to the country for various infrastructure and development projects to date.

    About the OPEC Fund

    The OPEC Fund for International Development (the OPEC Fund) is the only globally mandated development institution that provides financing from member countries to non-member countries exclusively.

    The organization works in cooperation with developing country partners and the international development community to stimulate economic growth and social progress in low- and middle-income countries around the world.

    The OPEC Fund was established in 1976 with a distinct purpose: to drive development, strengthen communities and empower people. Our work is people-centered, focusing on financing projects that meet essential needs, such as food, energy, infrastructure, employment (particularly relating to MSMEs), clean water and sanitation, healthcare and education.

    To date, the OPEC Fund has committed more than US$29 billion to development projects in over 125 countries with an estimated total project cost of more than US$200 billion. The OPEC Fund is rated AA+/Outlook Stable by Fitch and AA+, Outlook Stable by S&P. Our vision is a world where sustainable development is a reality for all.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Tech and Employment – Report: Over 280,000 employees in the tech sector laid off in 2024, another 11,000 job cuts in 2025 – Associated News Network

    Source: Associated News Network

    As new rounds of mass layoffs at major technology companies are being announced in 2025, I am reaching out with our latest report, examining the workforce reductions that occurred around the world in 2024. We also discovered at least 11,000 employees in the technology sector have lost their jobs since the beginning of the year.

    The team at RationalFX aggregated layoff announcements sourced from U.S. WARN notices, the job portal TrueUp, TechCrunch and the Layoffs.fyi layoff tracker for the entirety of 2024. We also looked into the latest layoffs since the beginning of January 2025, focusing on companies in the technology sector.

    According to our research, at least 280,991 employees in tech companies were laid off last year, while January brought another 11,299 job reductions from major companies, including Meta, Microsoft, and Amazon.

    Here are a few key takeaways from the report:

    • Globally, 280,991 layoffs occurred in the tech sector in 2024. In the U.S. alone, 267 companies reduced their workforce with a combined 157,950 job losses.
    • More than half of all layoffs in the tech sector were initiated by U.S.-based companies (157,950 or 56.21% of all), followed by 19,495 job cuts in German companies, 14,740 layoffs in South Korean firms, 14,675 layoffs in Chinese ones, and 12,608 job cuts in companies based in Japan.
    • The tech company with the most significant layoffs in 2024 was U.S. PC maker Dell, which reduced its headcount by 18,500, followed by Intel (15,100 layoffs), and Amazon (14,968 layoffs).
    • California is the U.S. state with the most tech sector layoffs, accounting for 40.4% of all job cuts in the U.S. and roughly 22.7% of all tech layoffs in the world. In 2024, 126 California-based tech firms laid off a combined 63,791 employees.
    • In January 2025, another 11,299 employees in tech companies lost their positions, with this number representing only the confirmed layoffs. Thousands more have been left unemployed with no official statement by their employers.

    Together, the 21 companies with the largest layoffs in 2024 announced a total of 156,654 job reductions. The wave of layoffs continues as companies focus on cutting costs, downsizing, and streamlining operations following significant hiring sprees during the COVID-19 pandemic. Investments in artificial intelligence have also pushed the number of layoffs high as simpler, repetitive tasks are assigned to AI systems, while human workers are either transferred to other departments or laid off.

    Further details about the layoffs in the tech sector and the reasons for job reductions, as well as the complete methodology behind our research, are available in the full report.  (ref. https://www.rationalfx.com/forex-brokers/the-tech-industrys-workforce-crisis-2024s-layoffs-surpass-280000-and-continue-in-2025/ )

    Daniel Lane
    Data Analyst
    AssociatedNews Network

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: Immediate Assessment of Aviation Safety

    Source: The White House

    MEMORANDUM FOR THE SECRETARY OF TRANSPORTATION
    THE ADMINISTRATOR OF THE FEDERAL AVIATION
    ADMINISTRATION

    SUBJECT:       Immediate Assessment of Aviation Safety

    On January 29, 2025, a commercial aircraft and a military helicopter horrifically collided near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport.  American families today woke up without their loved ones after what should have been a routine trip, and the entire Nation mourns the loss of the victims.

    This shocking event follows problematic and likely illegal decisions during the Obama and Biden Administrations that minimized merit and competence in the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).  The Obama Administration implemented a biographical questionnaire at the FAA to shift the hiring focus away from objective aptitude.  During my first term, my Administration raised standards to achieve the highest standards of safety and excellence.  But the Biden Administration egregiously rejected merit-based hiring, requiring all executive departments and agencies to implement dangerous “diversity equity and inclusion” tactics, and specifically recruiting individuals with “severe intellectual” disabilities in the FAA.   

    On my second day in office, I ordered an immediate return to merit-based recruitment, hiring, and promotion, elevating safety and ability as the paramount standard.  Yesterday’s devastating accident tragically underscores the need to elevate safety and competence as the priority of the FAA. 

    Consistent with the Presidential Memorandum of January 21, 2025 (Keeping Americans Safe in Aviation), I am further ordering the Secretary of Transportation (Secretary) and the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration (Administrator) to review all hiring decisions and changes to safety protocols made during the prior 4 years, and to take such corrective action as necessary to achieve uncompromised aviation safety, including the replacement of any individuals who do not meet qualification standards.  This review shall include a systematic assessment of any deterioration in hiring standards and aviation safety standards and protocols during the Biden Administration.

    Consistent with the Presidential Memorandum of January 21, 2025, the Secretary and the Administrator shall take all actions necessary to reverse concerning safety and personnel trends during the prior 4 years, instill an unwavering commitment to aviation safety, and ensure that all Americans fly with peace of mind

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Miners celebrate support for economic growth – Straterra

    Source: Straterra Inc

    Miners are celebrating the Government’s support for growing mining’s contribution to the economy with the release of a minerals strategy and critical minerals list today, says Straterra chief executive Josie Vidal.
    “The Government is listening, so this is a good day – not just for miners, but also all the businesses that make mining possible, including those producing mining equipment, technology, and services,” Vidal says. “They provide jobs and contribute to the economy. We have been asking for some years for buy-in from the Government to support mining growth that benefits workers in New Zealand, and their communities.
    “It is great to see facts, evidence, and science being used in decision making to further develop mining. Let’s be clear, that is not at the expense of the environment and there won’t be a mine on every corner.
    “The strategy has been developed through consultation and it is important it has a clear vision. We need this to put a marker in the ground for global markets indicating that we can be part of the minerals supply chain. Minerals are needed for energy, technology, medicine, transport, infrastructure, communications, and food production.
    “Identifying critical minerals helps with this. New Zealand has its own unique path and that includes acknowledgement that some of what is already mined here is critical to our economy. So, the list released today rightly includes gold and metallurgical coal.
    “While thermal coal not on the list, it does not mean it is not critical, and the strategy acknowledges the role thermal coal plays in keeping the lights on and businesses running. Coal is critical to national energy security and users of coal energy face a supply risk if domestic miners are forced to exit the market before affordable alternative fuel sources are readily available.
    “Productivity is at the heart of the strategy and mining is one of the most productive sectors in New Zealand, which translates into high wages.
    “The strategy recognises the value of responsible mining and New Zealand can be proud our strict employment and health and safety laws and stringent environmental regulations that back that.
    “What has been missing is an enabling business environment. The Fast-track Approvals Act is a game changer and there is interest in it from law makers around the globe.
    “We also need investment and with that, basics such as banking and insurance. While on the investment front there is plenty of interest in New Zealand mining, is disappointing to see debanking of coal mining in New Zealand due to arbitrary moral judgements. If banks start making ‘moral’ judgements, where does that end? I fail to see how banks can refuse to do business with legal and legitimate business entities.
    “We must not go backwards now on political whims. The foundations are starting to form to enable the mining sector to double the value of exports and contribute to economic growth, jobs, and regional development and to do what benefits New Zealanders.”
    Straterra is the industry association representing New Zealand’s minerals and mining sector.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Housing Market – Housing market close to a trough – CoreLogic

    Source: CoreLogic

    Property values in Aotearoa New Zealand edged -0.1% lower in January, marking the fifth month in a row with limited movement.

    The CoreLogic Home Value Index (HVI) shows that after a cumulative decline of -4.1% over the six months from March to August, there has only been a further combined fall of -0.4% since then – a potential sign that a rebound in prices could be taking shape.
    The national median value now stands at $803,819, which is -17.5% below the record highs from late 2021/early 2022, but still 16.3% above the pre-COVID level from March 2020.
    Around the main centres, it was a broadly flat month in January, with Tauranga and Ōtepoti Dunedin both seeing growth of +0.1%, and Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland and Ōtautahi Christchurch at -0.1%. Kirikiriroa Hamilton stood out, growing +0.5%, while Te Whanganui-a-Tara Wellington remained soft (-0.6%).
    CoreLogic NZ Chief Property Economist, Kelvin Davidson said the recent stability in property values at the national level could be a sign of future growth potential.
    “Since the ‘mini downturn’ seen through the middle part of last year petered out in August, national property values have been in a holding pattern – not moving clearly in either direction,” he said.
    “But with mortgage rates having dropped significantly from their peaks, property sales volumes have continued to rise in recent months and may well start to reduce the available stock of listings on the market in the near term.”
    “That would create more competitive pressure amongst buyers, and it wouldn’t be a surprise to see property values start to rise again shortly.”
    He noted some caution was still warranted.

    “After all, not all areas have stopped falling, including Wellington. Given that the economy remains soft and the labour market subdued, it is unlikely we will see a sharp upturn in values.”

    He also noted debt to income ratio caps will also play a role in dampening the market in 2025.

    Index results for January 2025 – national and main centres


     
    Month
    Quarter
    Annual
    From post-COVID peak
    From 2024 mini peak
    From pre-COVID levels
    Median  value
    Aotearoa New Zealand
    -0.1%
    -0.3%
    -4.3%
    -17.5%
    -4.5%
    16.3%
    $803,819
    Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland
    -0.1%
    -0.3%
    -6.5%
    -22.1%
    -6.5%
    8.5%
    $1,069,140
    Kirikiriroa Hamilton
    0.5%
    1.6%
    -1.6%
    -12.0%
    -1.7%
    20.0%
    $748,944
    Tauranga
    0.1%
    0.5%
    -3.6%
    -17.1%
    -3.8%
    21.1%
    $904,920
    Te-Whanganui-a-Tara Wellington*
    -0.6%
    -1.7%
    -7.4%
    -25.1%
    -8.5%
    4.8%
    $790,007
    Ōtautahi Christchurch
    -0.1%
    -0.1%
    0.0%
    -6.8%
    -1.1%
    41.0%
    $661,721
    Ōtepoti Dunedin
    0.1%
    0.1%
    0.9%
    -10.8%
    -1.2%
    11.1%
    $611,677


    Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland

    Tamaki Makaurau Auckland’s sub-markets were a mixed bag in January, with North Shore recording a 0.3% rise, and Waitakere and Manukau flat (with Auckland City only down slightly, by -0.1%). However, in the more outlying areas the value patterns were weaker, with falls of between -0.3% and -0.5% in Papakura, Franklin, and Rodney.

    Over a slightly longer three-month horizon, there have been signs of growth in North Shore and Waitakere (0.8% and 0.7% respectively), although other parts of Auckland have remained more subdued.
    Mr Davidson commented: “It would appear that the downwards momentum across many parts of Auckland is slowing, and North Shore certainly looks to be a market worth keeping an eye on as a possible guide to where the rest of the city goes in the next few months.”

    “Even so, with buyers still having plenty of choice, not least because of the pipeline of new property still being completed in Auckland, it’s difficult to see a broad-based upturn kicking off anytime soon.”

     
    Month
    Quarter
    Annual
    From post-COVID peak
    From 2024 mini peak
    From pre-COVID levels
    Median value
    Rodney
    -0.5%
    -1.8%
    -7.0%
    -21.5%
    -7.1%
    14.3%
    $1,216,586
    Te Raki Paewhenua North Shore
    0.3%
    0.8%
    -3.6%
    -18.0%
    -3.6%
    10.1%
    $1,291,965
    Waitakere
    0.0%
    0.7%
    -5.1%
    -23.8%
    -5.1%
    7.4%
    $942,671
    Auckland City
    -0.1%
    -0.8%
    -8.1%
    -23.1%
    -8.1%
    4.1%
    $1,131,326
    Manukau
    0.0%
    0.0%
    -6.4%
    -22.9%
    -6.4%
    12.1%
    $1,014,115
    Papakura
    -0.4%
    -0.9%
    -7.2%
    -23.4%
    -7.5%
    12.6%
    $815,455
    Franklin
    -0.3%
    -0.5%
    -5.8%
    -22.7%
    -5.8%
    16.3%
    $900,200

    Te Whanganui-a-Tara Wellington

    The wider Te Whanganui-a-Tara Wellington area still stands out in terms of lingering property value weakness. Indeed, values dipped across the board in January, ranging from fairly modest declines in Kapiti Coast and Porirua, up to drops of 0.6% in Lower Hutt and 0.7% in Wellington City itself.

    As Mr Davidson noted: “Parts of the Wellington area may be showing signs of optimism, or at least less pessimism.”

    “But the latest data still shows that values in and around the Capital are generally facing continued downwards pressure, linked to the elevated level of listings available on the market, and presumably also the underlying concerns about public sector employment.”

     
    Month
    Quarter
    Annual
    From post-COVID peak
    From 2024 mini peak
    From pre-COVID levels
    Median value
    Kāpiti Coast
    -0.1%
    0.0%
    -4.5%
    -21.9%
    -6.7%
    13.5%
    $808,515
    Porirua
    -0.2%
    0.2%
    -3.7%
    -22.4%
    -4.7%
    11.0%
    $752,261
    Te Awa Kairangi ki Uta Upper Hutt
    -0.4%
    -1.4%
    -6.1%
    -24.2%
    -6.9%
    7.1%
    $708,418
    Te Awa Kairangi ki Tai Lower Hutt
    -0.6%
    -1.8%
    -6.7%
    -26.3%
    -8.1%
    6.7%
    $670,538
    Wellington City
    -0.7%
    -2.1%
    -8.6%
    -25.3%
    -9.8%
    2.4%
    $886,088

    Regional results

    The early signs of some modest gains in property values that had started to become evident around regional areas in November and December have continued into January. That being said, Gisborne did drop by -0.5%, and Palmerston North and Invercargill also edged lower in January. But seven of the other eight markets covered in this section were either flat or rose by up to 0.3%, with New Plymouth showing a more robust 0.9% increase.

    “It remains early in the process, but there are signs in a number of provincial areas that lower mortgage rates have brought the falls in property values to an end, and some modest growth might even have restarted in certain markets,” Mr Davidson said.

    “Again, there’s cause for caution about how strong or sudden an upturn in property values might be in 2025, especially with the unemployment rate still rising. But the first signs of growth nevertheless seem to be emerging.”

     
    Month
    Quarter
    Annual
    From post-COVID peak
    From 2024 mini peak
    From pre-COVID levels
    Median value
    Ahuriri Napier
    0.2%
    1.3%
    -3.6%
    -19.1%
    -3.6%
    14.5%
    $689,554
    Te Papaioea Palmerston North
    -0.2%
    -0.7%
    -3.4%
    -19.0%
    -3.8%
    15.1%
    $601,785
    Heretaunga Hastings
    0.1%
    -0.6%
    -4.9%
    -18.9%
    -4.9%
    22.0%
    $690,337
    Whangārei
    0.3%
    -0.2%
    -5.8%
    -20.8%
    -5.8%
    12.8%
    $719,145
    Whanganui
    0.1%
    -0.2%
    2.5%
    -13.3%
    -1.7%
    28.8%
    $486,074
    Rotorua
    0.0%
    -0.1%
    -0.4%
    -13.5%
    -1.5%
    22.5%
    $608,130
    Tūranganui-a-Kiwa Gisborne
    -0.5%
    -1.6%
    -7.8%
    -17.9%
    -8.5%
    23.7%
    $581,918
    Whakatū Nelson
    0.1%
    -0.3%
    1.7%
    -11.7%
    -0.3%
    15.6%
    $742,790
    Ngāmotu New Plymouth
    0.9%
    0.9%
    0.6%
    -1.0%
    -1.0%
    48.1%
    $703,040
    Waihōpai Invercargill
    -0.2%
    -0.5%
    2.5%
    -2.8%
    -0.5%
    27.7%
    $468,161
    Tāhuna Queenstown
    0.1%
    0.4%
    2.4%
    -5.1%
    -0.7%
    31.5%
    $1,631,244

    Property market outlook

    Looking ahead, Mr Davidson noted that the continued slowdown in net migration continues to dampen overall population growth and marginal demand for property, especially in the rental sector.
    He said that would likely weigh on investor sentiment in the near term.

    “Even so, the tax rules have become more favourable for mortgaged investors again, and of course lower interest rates are shrinking the top-ups from other income that are typically required to sustain rental property cashflows. Some extra demand from investors this year is firmly on the cards, although the debt to income ratio rules will be something this group may have to weigh up too.”

    “Other buyer groups will also tend to target property in a lower mortgage rate environment, and certainly conditions remain favourable for first home buyers too. A more liquid and faster-moving market may also help existing owner-occupiers to get their house sold and allow them to press ahead with the next purchase.”

    “All in all, 2025 looks set to be a stronger year for the property market than 2024, but the slowly emerging growth in values in some areas is not universal yet, and the upturn this year could well be more muted than in the past,” he concluded.

    For more property news and insights, visit www.corelogic.co.nz/news-research.

    Notes:

    The CoreLogic Hedonic Home Value Index (HVI) is calculated using a hedonic regression methodology that addresses the issue of compositional bias associated with median price and other measures. In simple terms, the index is calculated using recent sales data combined with information about the attributes of individual properties such as the number of bedrooms and bathrooms, land area and geographical context of the dwelling. By separating each property into its various formational and locational attributes, observed sales values for each property can be distinguished between those attributed to the property’s attributes and those resulting from changes in the underlying residential property market. Additionally, by understanding the value associated with each attribute of a given property, this methodology can be used to estimate the value of dwellings with known characteristics for which there is no recent sales price by observing the characteristics and sales prices of other dwellings which have recently transacted. It then follows that changes in the market value of the entire residential property stock can be accurately tracked through time.

    The detailed ‘frequently asked questions’ and methodological information can be found at: https://www.corelogic.co.nz/our-data/hedonic-index

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Tax policy proposal would boost NZ racing

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Racing Minister, Winston Peters has announced the Government is preparing public consultation on GST policy proposals which would make the New Zealand racing industry more competitive. 

    “The racing industry makes an important economic contribution. New Zealand thoroughbreds are in demand overseas as racehorses and for breeding. The domestic thoroughbred industry put nearly a billion dollars into the economy in 2022/23,” Mr Peters says. 

    Bloodstock breeders often join together in a joint venture when investing in a thoroughbred, helping with the initial purchase price and ongoing costs.

    Mr Peters says common practice amongst joint ventures including bloodstock breeders is to individually claim GST deductions in their own GST returns. Inland Revenue has however recently concluded that the current rules do not allow this.   

    “To comply with this, breeders would incur the compliance cost of registering and filing GST returns for each horse separately every month or every two months. The Government is proposing to take a pragmatic approach and avoid imposing compliance costs by allowing current practice. 

    “If this proposal proceeds, it will place the New Zealand industry on a more equal footing with the Australian industry,” Mr Peters said.

    The consultation document is expected to be published in the coming months on taxpolicy.ird.govt.nz.

    Mr Peters also congratulated New Zealand Bloodstock on the just completed 99th National Yearling Sales at Karaka, with combined sales of $86m.

    A highlight was the record $2.4m paid for a Savabeel-sired filly – the highest price ever paid for a filly sold in New Zealand. 

    “The sales show the New Zealand bloodstock industry is in good health and the industry presents major potential for growth both domestically and through international interest,” Mr Peters says.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Latest climate target as useful as a screen door on a submarine – Greenpeace

    Source: Greenpeace

    Greenpeace has slammed the Luxon Government for failing to protect future generations after releasing New Zealand’s latest climate target of a 1-5% additional reduction in emissions by 2035, saying it’s “about as useful as a screen door on a submarine.”
    Greenpeace spokesperson Amanda Larsson says, “This target is an absolute joke, yet the climate crisis is no laughing matter.”
    “Against the backdrop of Luxon’s war on nature, not only is this target too weak to protect our kids and grandkids from a disastrous future but there is no plan to achieve even the targets we already have.”
    Under the Paris Agreement on climate change, nations are required to submit a so-called nationally determined contribution (NDC) every four years. Each NDC must represent an increase in ambition on the last, which was submitted in 2021.
    “Every parent and grandparent wants to pass on a safe and stable world to our kids. That requires brave and visionary leadership, both of which Luxon is lacking,” says Larsson.
    “Luxon’s vision for New Zealand seems to be a landscape ripped open by coal mines, a coastline dotted with oil rigs and fields crammed with cows, knee deep in mud and effluent.”
    The Luxon Government controversially overturned the 2018 ban on offshore oil and gas exploration, despite advice from MFAT that this is likely to breach our recent free trade agreements with the EU and UK. Coal mines are included in the list for fast-tracking, overriding community will and environmental laws. Luxon has also exempted New Zealand’s most polluting industry – dairying – from paying for its emissions through the Emissions Trading Scheme.
    “Our country is doing worse on climate change than it was ten years ago,” says Larsson. “This is what happens when you let polluters write the policy.”
    Documents released to Greenpeace under the Official Information Act reveal the unprecedented influence of the meat and dairy industry over environmental policy in Luxon’s Government. Emails, texts and briefings show that Federated Farmers, Dairy NZ and Beef + Lamb NZ have used privileged access to Ministers to draft policy on freshwater and climate change, to advise on Government communications and to push central Government to instruct local councils to weaken their environmental policies.
    “The increasingly rampant wildfires, floods and cyclones we’re witnessing around us are a sign that our planet is sick. If governments won’t stand up to polluters to protect our kids and grandkids, as Luxon has shown he will not, then people will use the courts, protest and other means to save their children from climate disaster,” says Larsson.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: First Responders – Tiwai Peninsula vegetation fire update #2

    Source: Fire and Emergency New Zealand

    Fire and Emergency New Zealand crews are back on Tiwai Peninsula in Invercargill today, where the large vegetation fire has not grown further overnight.
    The fire grew to 1,200 hectares yesterday in hot, windy conditions but was contained by the end of the day.
    Incident Controller Hamish Angus says there will be 35 firefighters on site today, with support from five helicopters, the Department of Conservation and local forestry companies.
    “Our focus today is on knocking out those remaining hotspots,” he says.
    “We’re expecting winds to pick up over the next few days, so we want to make sure there’s nothing left here that could get the fire under way again.
    “It’s too early to say what caused the fire, but we will have fire investigators here today looking into that.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Fire Safety – Fire restrictions eased in parts of Mid-South Canterbury

    Source: Fire and Emergency New Zealand

    Fire and Emergency New Zealand has revoked the restrictions on lighting outdoor fires in the lower-lying areas of Mid-South Canterbury from 8am on Friday 31 January.
    Mid-South Canterbury District Manager Rob Hands says that as fire danger has eased in these areas after recent rainfall, they are now back in an open fire season until further notice.
    In a restricted fire season, people need a permit from Fire and Emergency to light an outdoor fire.
    In an open season, permits are not needed, but people are asked to take reasonable precautions when lighting fires.
    “As well as the rain we’ve now had, the outlook for the next few weeks is cooler and damper, which means there’s less chance of a wildfire starting and spreading through vegetation,” Rob Hands says.
    The areas in Mid-South Canterbury which have moved to an open fire season include Cattle Creek, Waihaorunga, Waimate Coastal, Waimate, Timaru Coastal, Albury, Cannington, Clayton, Geraldine Plains, Mt Somers, Ashburton Plains, and Ashburton Coastal.
    The Mackenzie Basin and high country – including Rangitata and Rakaia Gorges, and Ashburton Lakes – remain in a restricted fire season, as those areas continue to be affected by hot, dry conditions.
    Rob Hands says people should not become careless with fires, just because the season has changed.
    “While rain has reduced the fire risk in the low-lying areas, people must take care to prevent unwanted fires getting started,” he says.
    “Even if you are in an open season, you should go to www.checkitsalright.nz to see if it’s safe to have an outdoor fire at your location.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Dr. Rand Paul Releases Statement on Nomination of Representative Elise Stefanik to Serve as U.S. Ambassador to United Nations

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kentucky Rand Paul
    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
    January 30, 2025
     Contact: Press_Paul@paul.senate.gov, 202-224-4343
     
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Rand Paul (R-KY) released the following statement in support of the nomination of U.S. Representative Elise Stefanik (R-NY-21) to serve as the U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations shortly after he voted for her nomination at the Senate Foreign Relations Committee markup.
    “I would like to extend my sincere congratulations to Representative Elise Stefanik on her nomination to serve as the U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations. I intend to support her nomination and wish her all the best in this important role representing the United States.
    “I would like, however, to outline a few fundamental policy disagreements I maintain with Representative Stefanik, with the hope that a closer examination of these issues will lead to the adoption of more prudent policies. 
    “Following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Representative Stefanik issued a statement urging NATO to immediately admit Ukraine into the alliance. That course of action risks leading to World War III, with the United States getting pulled into a direct conflict with Russia—a country that maintains the world’s largest nuclear arsenal. It is imperative that diplomats avoid kneejerk reactions and maintain composure when confronted with serious geopolitical crises. 
    “Unfortunately, Representative Stefanik’s statement neglected the principal driver of Moscow’s antipathy toward Ukraine. Fearing a western bulwark on its doorstep, the main driver of Russia’s decision to violate Ukraine’s sovereignty and invade the country was, and remains, a desire to prevent the potential threat that would emanate from Ukraine should it join NATO. One must not agree with Moscow’s perspective, however it is imperative that our diplomats and policymakers strive to understand it to avoid miscalculation and effectively negotiate a lasting peace.  
    “I am encouraged by Representative Stefanik’s recent vote against an additional $60 billion in aid to Ukraine, citing concerns over excessive spending and a need to address the situation at our southern border. President Trump vowed to end the needless slaughter in Ukraine, and I expect Representative Stefanik will use her position at the UN to work toward the realization of that objective. 
    “The second fundamental disagreement I maintain with Representative Stefanik is her vocal support of a national ban of the popular app, TikTok. Representative Stefanik and other proponents of the ban claim that it is necessary to prevent the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) from accessing Americans’ user data and prevent the spread of CCP propaganda. But in addition to a lack of evidence that TikTok poses any tangible national security threat to the United States, a ban also fundamentally infringes on the most sacred of our constitutionally protected rights—the right of free speech and expression. The United States is not better off by emulating the tactics of the CCP, which bans speech it does not like.
    “Diplomacy requires give and take. It requires hard work building relationships based on mutual respect. Rather than reprimand our adversaries at every turn, we should strive to maintain productive dialogue. President Trump understands the importance of diplomacy as a means to avoid and end conflicts. As Ambassador to the United Nations, I hope Representative Stefanik will advance President Trump’s diplomatic agenda. 
    “While I may disagree with Representative Stefanik’s general foreign policy disposition, I do not doubt her steadfastness and devotion to our country. It is my sincere hope that President Trump’s second administration will continue to elevate diplomacy over conflict to ensure that our children and grandchildren inherit a prosperous and peaceful world. I wish Representative Stefanik all the best and stand ready to offer my assistance as she prepares to represent the United States on the global stage.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Schatz: Lee Zeldin Wrong Person To Lead EPA

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Hawaii Brian Schatz
    Published: 01.29.2025

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i) released the following statement after voting against Lee Zeldin’s nomination to be Administrator of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
    “In just the last week, Donald Trump banned wind energy and stopped federal funding for clean energy projects – actions that will create an energy shortage and raise people’s energy bills. Republicans aren’t trying to cut costs for people – they’re focused on helping their Big Oil friends make money. And the person who will be leading these efforts for the Trump Administration, including to roll back critical environmental protections, is Lee Zeldin. Climate change is happening, and it’s costing billions and billions of dollars, and more importantly, it’s costing lives. We need an EPA Administrator who is for climate action, not Lee Zeldin.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kennedy backs bill to crack down on fentanyl, help law enforcement tackle opioid crisis

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator John Kennedy (Louisiana)

    WASHINGTON – Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.), a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, today joined Sens. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Bill Cassidy (R-La.) and Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) in introducing the Halt All Lethal Trafficking of (HALT) Fentanyl Act, which would permanently list fentanyl-related substances as Schedule I substances under the Controlled Substances Act.

    “Americans know the carnage of fentanyl all too well. The HALT Fentanyl Act would save lives in Louisiana and across the country by empowering law enforcement to seek justice against dealers who work with cartels to profit off feeding poison to Americans,” said Kennedy.

    Fentanyl is a scheduled substance, but Mexican drug cartels make small chemical tweaks to fentanyl to produce drugs—fentanyl-related substances—with similar dangerous effects that are not controlled.

    In response to this crisis, the DEA exercised its authority to temporarily classify fentanyl-related substances as Schedule I under the Controlled Substances Act. That temporary scheduling order will expire on March 31, 2025 if Congress does not act.

    Under the HALT Fentanyl Act, fentanyl-related substances would remain Schedule I. In addition, the bill clarifies that the mandatory minimum penalties that apply to fentanyl also apply to the trafficking of fentanyl-related substances.

    “Today, roughly 150 Americans will die from fentanyl poisoning. Cartels fuel this crisis by marketing their poison as legitimate prescription pills. They also avoid regulation by chemically altering the drugs to create powerful fentanyl knock-offs. Congress closed that loophole by temporarily classifying fentanyl related substances under Schedule 1. The HALT Fentanyl Act would make permanent fentanyl related substances’ Schedule 1 classification and ensure law enforcement has the tools they need to combat these deadly drugs,” said Grassley. 

    “The Biden administration’s open border was an invitation to drug cartels smuggling Chinese fentanyl into the U.S., fueling the U.S. overdose epidemic. Law enforcement must have the tools necessary to combat this trend. We cannot let this Schedule I classification lapse,” said Cassidy. 

    “We’re losing more than 100,000 Americans each year to illicit fentanyl overdoses. I refuse to accept this reality, and that’s why I’m working to deliver tools law enforcement personnel need to keep deadly fentanyl off our streets and out of our communities. Permanently scheduling fentanyl and its analogues will help federal and local law enforcement crack down on illegal trafficking and allow prosecutors to build stronger, longer-term criminal cases. Our HALT Fentanyl Act will help stop the flow of these deadly drugs into our communities and save lives,” said Heinrich.

    Background:

    • The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimated that in 2023 there were 81,083 overdose deaths in the U.S. that involved opioids.
    • In March 2023, Kennedy introduced the Fairness in Fentanyl Sentencing Act, which would have made sure fentanyl-trafficking sentences reflected the deadliness of the substance. Senate Democrats blocked the bill in May 2023.
    • In 2024, U.S. Customs and Border Protection seized 21,889 pounds of fentanyl, enough to kill more than 4.9 billion people (assuming a lethal dose of two milligrams)—or enough to wipe out the entire U.S. population more than 14 times over. 

    Sens. Roger Marshall (R-Kan.), Todd Young (R-Ind.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Eric Schmitt (R-Mo.), Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.) and Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.) cosponsored the legislation. 

    The full bill text is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tillis Introduces Kash Patel at Nomination Hearing to be Director of the FBI

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for North Carolina Thom Tillis

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senator Thom Tillis, a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, introduced Kash Patel at his nomination hearing before the Senate Judiciary Committee to be the Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).

    Watch the introduction here.

    Read Senator Tillis’ statement below:

    Chairman Grassley, Ranking Member Durbin and my colleagues on the Senate Judiciary Committee, it’s my honor to introduce Kash Patel, President Trump’s nominee to be FBI Director. I’ve completed due diligence on his life and career, and I’m convinced Kash possesses significant expertise and an ironclad commitment to justice. I have concluded he’s an outstanding choice to lead the FBI. 

    Kash’s parents are Indian immigrants of Gujarati ancestry. The Gujarat state is a melting pot of religions, including Hinduism, Islam, and Jainism, with temples, mosques, and other religious sites scattered across the state.  His father was raised in Uganda, but his family fled the country to escape repression under Idi Amin. His mother was born and raised in Tanzania. They met and married in India and ultimately made their way to New York City by way of Canada, where his parents along with 7 brothers and sisters, their spouses, and at least a half dozen kids lived under the same roof. His parents raised Kash in the Hindu faith, and they instilled in him the values of hard work and education.  Kash is a devout Hindu, and consistent with his faith, he has shown respect to people of all faiths.

    Kash attended the University of Richmond, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in criminal justice and history. He went to Pace University School of Law, where he earned his JD and an International Law Certificate from the University College of London, Faculty of Laws.

    Kash began his career as a public defender in Florida where he led or co-led more than 60 jury trials to verdict in state and federal courts. Kash has clearly demonstrated devotion to upholding the rule of law and defending the rights of individuals.

    Kash led the defense of Jose Buitrago in United States v. Buitrago, a high-profile drug case in Florida in 2015.  Buitrago was one of the Colombian nationals arrested in a major drug bust involving Operation BACRIM. Kash and his co-counsel successfully argued that key evidence was withheld by the prosecution, leading to Buitrago’s release. I suspect some of Kash’s disdain for prosecutorial misconduct stems from this firsthand experience. 

    Kash was hired as senior counsel on the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence in 2017. He told me he distinctly remembers my friend Trey Gowdy’s comment shortly after they were introduced. He said, “Kash, Congress is where righteous investigations go to die, I hope you’re ready.” Kash wasready and he went on to establish a solid reputation for pursuing the facts. From there, he held senior posts at the NSC, DoD, and DNI.

    Since leaving the administration after 2020, Kash has written articles and books on national security, law, and governance. Through his work as an author, Kash continues to advocate for justice and transparency and to be ever vigilant in defending our great democracy and the rule of law.

    Colleagues, I’ve created a Kash BINGO that is available to any of my colleagues who would like on the other side of the aisle. Some may view this as an unserious caricature and not appropriate for this committee, but sadly I consider it a serious caricature of what I expect to be witnessed today. I think we will have words like “enemies list” and “deep state”, but the fact of the matter is some people will be here to substantiate a false narrative. At worst, they may just be going through an unfounded litany of quote and half quote and half-truths, some that have already been dispelled in the Chairman’s opening statement. 

    In my 10 years in the Senate, I hope I have established a reputation for being fair, doing my homework, and taking tough positions that have been met with harsh criticism. Heck, I’ve been censured by my party for taking tough positions, and I stand by those positions today and my position to support Kash Patel. 

    When President Trump announced his intent to nominate Kash, I contacted Trey Gowdy and others who’ve worked with Kash, and they gave glowing recommendations. So, I called Kash on December 2nd and offered to help with his nomination. Since then, we’ve spent hours together in person and on the phone.

    I’ve asked him difficult questions and I’ve urged him to reach out to members across the aisle. He’s met with 60 members of the U.S. Senate, including several members of this committee.

    Chair Grassley, Ranking Member Durbin, friends, and colleagues on the committee. I’ve completed my due diligence on Kash Patel, and I am honored to provide my strongest recommendation for his confirmation.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senators Coons, Lankford introduce bill to incentivize charitable giving through tax code

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Delaware Christopher Coons

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Chris Coons (D-Del.) and James Lankford (R-Okla.) reintroduced the Charitable Act to reward Americans who give to charity and incentivize more people to donate to worthy causes. Under this new bill, Americans who donate to charities, houses of worship, religious organizations, and other nonprofits of their choice would be able to deduct that donation from their federal taxes, even if they take the standard, non-itemized deduction.

    A similar provision was first enacted in the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, which passed in 2020. As a result of that legislation, 90 million taxpayers benefitted from the deduction, and households making between $30,000 and $100,000 increased their charitable giving the most. Charitable organizations received $30 billion in increased donations. 

    “Delawareans have always risen to the occasion in support of our communities,” said Senator Coons. “Last year, Americans demonstrated our generosity by donating a collective $557 billion to charities, houses of worship, and nonprofits. I am proud to reintroduce the Charitable Act with Senator Lankford to help the federal government encourage even more Americans to embrace the civic virtue of giving to those in need.”

    “America’s first safety net should never be the government—government is the least efficient caregiver by far. Our families, churches, and other nonprofits do incredible work to lift up those who need it most. Updating the tax law to incentivize giving empowers Americans to make an even bigger impact for the homeless, hurting, and hungry,” said Senator Lankford. 

    This bill is supported by numerous organizations, including The National Council of Nonprofits (25,000 member organizations), Charitable Giving Coalition (175 member organizations), the Nonprofit Alliance, Faith & Giving Coalition, Leadership 18, Independent Sector, YMCA, Council on Foundations, American Endowment Foundation, Philanthropy Southwest, Christian Alliance for Orphans, Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission, United Philanthropy Forum, National Association of Charitable Gift Planners, Association of Art Museum Directors, the Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability, Association of Fundraising Professionals, Council for Advancement and Support of Education, Americans for the Arts, American Heart Association, Oklahoma Center for Nonprofits, Delaware Alliance for Nonprofit Advancement, Maryland Nonprofits, Boys and Girls Club of America, March of Dimes, and Habitat for Humanity.

    In addition to Senators Coons and Lankford, the Charitable Act is supported by Senators Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), John Curtis (R-Utah), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), Katie Britt (R-Ala.), and Tim Scott (R-S.C.).

    “Nonprofits are the backbone of our communities, addressing critical needs and enhancing the quality of life for all. The Charitable Act is a vital step in restoring a proven incentive that encourages generosity and empowers nonprofits to meet growing demands, even in challenging times. We applaud Senators Lankford and Coons for their leadership and steadfast commitment to strengthening the nonprofit sector, ensuring we can continue to deliver essential services and drive positive change,” said Sheila Bravo, President and CEO, Delaware Alliance for Nonprofit Advancement.

    “Bravo to Senators Lankford and Coons on this much-needed support for America’s nonprofits. They both understand from personal experience the key role the nonprofit sector plays both as a provider of critical services to millions of Americans and as a major employer in Oklahoma and nationwide. In this era of historic inflation and ever-rising costs, the need for nonprofit services has not declined—in fact, we are needed more than ever. The Charitable Act will help recreate an environment of years past where charitable givers at every level can feel incentivized and appreciated—after all, we are all in this together,” said Marnie Taylor, President & CEO, Oklahoma Center for Nonprofits. 

    “Faith & Giving heartily thanks and commends Senators James Lankford and Chris Coons for reintroducing the Charitable Act to restore a charitable deduction for taxpayers who do not itemize. Giving by individuals is the financial lifeblood of many thousands of American faith communities and faith-based organizations. Yet since 2017 individual giving to religion has fallen billions of dollars short of keeping pace with inflation. No single policy is more important for restoring the health of individual giving and faith-based charities than a non-itemizer charitable deduction like the one Congress created to stimulate giving in 2020 and 2021,” Brian Walsh, Executive Director, Faith & Giving. 

    “Nonprofits need tools like the nonitemizer deduction proposed by the Charitable Act to meet growing and changing community needs,” said YMCA of the USA President and CEO Suzanne McCormick. “We saw this policy unlock more giving when it was enacted temporarily during the pandemic, and we know that making it permanent will help YMCAs serve and support more neighbors every day. Senators Lankford and Coons recognize the important role nonprofits play in communities and understand that the universal charitable deduction helps nonprofits like the Y make their communities stronger. I’m grateful for their leadership.”

    “The temporary non-itemizer charitable deduction implemented in 2020 and 2021 led to an additional $18 billion in donations to nonprofits. As nonprofits are faced with higher demand for services, increased costs, workforce challenges, and declining donations, the Charitable Act presents an opportunity to reinstate that incentive and provide nonprofits with more resources to carry out their mission. The networks of the National Council of Nonprofits enthusiastically endorse this vital legislation and appreciate leaders like Senator Lankford and Senator Coons who continue to be stalwart champions for these efforts and the nonprofit sector,” said Diane Yentel, President & CEO, National Council of Nonprofits.

    “Generosity is a core American value that should be incentivized to help meet the evolving needs of communities,” said Kathleen Enright, Council on Foundations President and CEO. “The temporary non-itemizer deduction in the CARES Act successfully sparked more people to give. We hope Congress will cement this effective policy into law and inspire many more generous Americans to give charitably to support one another and the causes they value. We thank the House and Senate sponsors of the Charitable Act for their leadership on this issue.”

    For quotes from other organizations and non-profit leaders, please click here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Under questioning from Senator Coons, FBI Director nominee Patel refuses to assert FBI’s independence or demonstrate willingness to resign over illegal directives

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Delaware Christopher Coons

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Chris Coons (D-Del.) questioned President Donald Trump’s nominee for FBI Director, Kash Patel, at his Senate Judiciary Committee confirmation hearing today, where he pressed him on whether his allegiance to President Trump would mean the end of the Bureau’s independence and whether he’d resign if asked by the White House to do something illegal.

    Senator Coons pressed Patel on several issues at the hearing today. Under questioning, Patel stated that, as FBI Director, he would answer to the President. In contrast, Attorney General nominee Pam Bondi said that, if confirmed, she would answer directly to the Constitution and the American people.

    Senator Coons also asked Patel, as he asked FBI Directors Chris Wray and James Comey during their own confirmations, about whether Patel would resign rather than carry out an illegal order from Trump, as Wray and Comey committed to doing. Patel repeatedly refused to make the same commitment.

    A video and full transcript of Senator Coons’ comments are available below.

    WATCH HERE.

    Sen. Coons: We had a constructive conversation last week, I appreciate your taking the time. In particular, a conversation about the prosecution of the World Cup bombing in Uganda that took the life of a Delawarean whose family I knew, I found moving. But the role you have been nominated for is central – central to our security as a nation, central to the protection of our constitutional rights, and I voted to confirm Trump’s previous FBI director, Chris Wray. I believe he’s lived up to the bureau’s motto of serving with fidelity, bravery and integrity, and I also think my vote for him and for many of Trump’s cabinet in the first term shows I take my constitutional advice and consent rule seriously and do not reflexively vote against his nominees.

    I look at three factors when I assess a nominee. Qualifications and experience; policy views and whether they are in the best interest of the American people; and character and capacity to do the job independently where called for. My colleagues have referenced quotes from Attorney General Barr, National Security Advisor Bolton.

    The FBI is enormous: 38,000 agents, $9 billion budget. I am troubled by your lack of senior law enforcement leadership. We disagree on some important policy views. But the thing that bothers me the most is a whole series of statements you have made in a variety of settings that suggest you would struggle to be independent from White House direction or control, as has long been the modern history of the FBI.

    Who does the director of the FBI work for, Mr. Patel?

    Mr. Patel: Senator, thank you for that question. The immediate report for the Director of the FBI is into the Office of the Deputy Attorney General. Then, that report is taken into the Office of the Attorney General and ultimately the White House in the chain of command there.

    Sen. Coons: So the FBI works for the White House?

    Mr. Patel: No, the FBI is a member of the Department of Justice, and has been the long-standing application—

    Sen Coons: And who does the Department of Justice work for?

    Mr. Patel: They are in the executive branch, as all members do at the White House.

    Sen. Coons: Attorney General Bondi gave a different answer when I asked her the same question— that they work for the Constitution and the American people. President Trump has made clear in public statements he wants to use the FBI to persecute political adversaries. He has publicly said that folks ranging from Liz Cheney, to Adam Kinzinger, to former Vice President Harris should be investigated and criminally prosecuted. If President Trump were to order you to open an investigation into any of these individuals, let’s say, Vice President Harris, would you?

    Mr. Patel: Senator, this question speaks directly to my ability to leave political bias and allow independent behavior to be the only guiding light. As a public defender, I learned that in the harshest of arenas. And any law enforcement investigation, if I’m confirmed at the FBI, will only be launched on the following qualification: a factual, articulatable, legal basis to do so. The president has said publicly that he will allow the FBI to remain independent, and I have said as much as well.

    Sen. Coons: So, if FBI agents brought to you a factual legal basis, a predication, and you are about to refer it to a prosecutor, and you get a call from the White House saying, “don’t proceed, this is a major donor, this is someone close to the president, this is inappropriate.” What would you do?

    Mr. Patel: Simple. You – I think you answered it partially in your, in your question. The line agents, the brick agents who are trained to bring investigations on behalf of the FBI will make that decision-making process, and they will only have my full support so long as it upholds absolutely every value of the Constitution, and that’s it.

    Sen. Coons: So your predecessor – I went back and looked, and I asked the same questions of Director Comey and Director Wray. Director Wray, quoting former Attorney General Bell, said you should be willing to resign if necessary over conduct if you are pressed to engage in it that’s unethical, illegal or unconstitutional. If pressed by the president, would you resign?

    Mr. Patel: Senator, my answer simply is I would never do anything unconstitutional or unlawful, and I never have in my 16 years of government service.

    Sen. Coons: Would you be willing to resign the post of FBI Director if pressed and given no choice but to obey the order or resign?

    Mr. Patel: Senator, I will always obey the law.

    Sen. Coons: Does obeying the law require you to – as Attorney General Bell said, as FBI Director Wray said – refuse the order or resign?

    Mr. Patel: I don’t – I’m not familiar with the extent of the law you are referring to, but my answer is simple in my 16 years of government service. We will simply follow the law, and I have done that in Obama Justice Department [sic], Republican Justice Departments, in the Obama military, in Republican civilian capacity. I have never once wavered from my constitutional oath of office.

    Sen. Coons: Mr. Patel, your predecessors in this role have been clear that they would be willing to resign if forced or directed to do something unethical or illegal. I’ll proceed.

    One of your past statements that is concerning me – it’s both a post on Truth Social and something you said in a podcast, The Sean Morgan Report: that your predecessor, Chris Wray, has broken the law. We need to prosecute him. The FBI should go after people like him. And the month before this, in July 2023, you said there should be a criminal referral for FBI Director Wray. If confirmed, are you going to follow through on these previous statements that Director Wray needs to be prosecuted?

    Mr. Patel: Senator, this reminds me of the conversation you and I had, which I greatly appreciated. There is enough violent crime in this country, and enough national security threats to this country, that the FBI is going to be busy going forward preventing 100,000 overdoses, 100,000 rapes, and 17,000 homicides.

    Sen. Coons: We agree that prosecuting violent crimes should be the principal focus of the FBI. What I’m trying to get to, Mr. Patel, is a whole series of very troubling – to me and many others – statements you’ve made about instead using it to pursue those who might be viewed as political opponents.

    Mr. Patel: And as I told you in your office, I have no interest, no desire, and will not if confirmed, go backwards. There will be no politicization at the FBI, there will be no retributive actions taken by any FBI, should I be confirmed as the FBI director. I told you that in your office, and I will tell you that again today.

    Sen. Coons: Thank you for that statement. As the Co-chair of the Law Enforcement Caucus with Senator Cornyn, one of the things I’ve worked hard on and I hope to continue to being able to work hard on with this administration is partnership between federal, state, and local law enforcement to pursue violent crime. You did say, as my colleague asked, and I’d look for a longer answer, that you want to close the FBI’s bureau headquarters on day one.

    How would shutting down the FBI headquarters impact its ability to prosecute violent crime and drug traffickers? How is that possibly a serious proposal, Mr. Patel?

    Mr. Patel: Thank you for bringing that up and allowing me to answer. It was to highlight the significantly greater point that I was actually making in that interview, which is well documented over and over again. 38,000 FBI employees – 7,500 FBI employees work in the Washington field office and Hoover Building alone. If you increase the aperture just slightly to encompass the National Capital Region, that is 11,000 FBI employees working in the National Capital Region. A third of the workforce for the FBI works in Washington, D.C. I am fully committed to having that workforce go out into the interior of the country where I live, west of the Mississippi, and work with sheriff’s departments and local officers and having one agent prevent one homicide and having one agent in Washington prevent one rape, and I will do that over and over and over again, because the American people deserve the resources not in Washington D.C., but in the rest of the country.

    Sen. Coons: And Mr. Patel, frankly, if that had been your statement, that would be something that would be defensible. It’s the rest of it, saying you’re going to turn it into a Museum of the Deep State, that causes repeated questions and concerns from people like myself. Thank you, Mr. Patel.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Luján, Wyden, Finance Democrats Press RFK Jr. to Reject Big Pharma Pause on Medicare Negotiation

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-New Mexico)

    Following Noncommittal Answer in Committee and Statement by CMS, Finance Democrats Press for Commitment to Continuing Medicare Drug Price Negotiation on Schedule

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Senate Finance Committee Ranking Member Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), and all Democratic members of the Senate Committee on Finance sent a letter to Robert F. Kennedy Jr. pressing him to answer nearly a dozen questions regarding his views on Medicare drug price negotiation and confirm he will not pause negotiations, as CEOs representing the largest pharmaceutical companies have requested.

    “As a result of the Inflation Reduction Act, which passed without a single Republican vote, Medicare drug price negotiation is a powerful tool available right now to President Trump to make good on his long-standing promise to stand up to Big Pharma,” the Senators wrote. “On behalf of the tens of millions of Americans who count on Medicare, Democrats on the Senate Finance Committee want to know whether the Trump Administration will follow through on negotiating with Big Pharma to deliver the lower costs promised to the American people.” 

    The letter, sent to Kennedy in his capacity as the nominee to be secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), asks whether he will follow the Inflation Reduction Act’s statutory requirements related to Medicare drug price negotiation, whether the Trump administration will continue to defend the law in court against attacks by Big Pharma, and other questions. Yesterday, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) released a concerning statement that appeared to open the door to Big Pharma’s requests.

    “Contrary to what you suggested in today’s hearing, the Trump Administration’s statement is far from an embrace of drug price negotiation and appears to be opening the door to changes that could undermine Medicare’s ability to get the best price possible on drugs,” the Senators continued.

    The full letter can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: DR Congo: Hospitals overwhelmed, food running out: Goma faces ‘devastation’

    Source: United Nations 4

    Peace and Security

    After days of intense fighting, the humanitarian situation in Goma, capital of the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), has reached alarming levels – with humanitarian needs now massive and response capacities severely strained. 

    The World Food Programme (WFP) warned on Thursday that food supplies are running dangerously low, as water and electricity outages exacerbate the crisis.

    The seizure and closure of Goma’s airport by Rwanda-backed M23 rebels has further interfered with aid delivery, while the blocking of roads and lake transport restrictions have left thousands stranded.

    The rebel group has taken control of most of Goma since entering the city on Monday in the biggest escalation of a decades-long conflict springing from the Rwandan genocide against the Tutsis, and a continuing struggle for control of rich mineral resources in the region among a plethora of armed groups.

    Fleeing by boat

    Families attempting to flee the violence across Lake Kivu are resorting to unsafe makeshift boats, putting their lives at risk.

    At the same time, the UN aid coordination office, OCHA, reports that humanitarian workers have been unable to leave their shelters in Goma for over 24 hours due to the insecurity, severely affecting emergency response efforts.

    Tom Fletcher, the emergency relief chief, has allocated $17 million from the UN’s Central Emergency Relief Fund (CERF) to support lifesaving assistance – yet access to those in need remains uncertain.   

    Hospitals overwhelmed

    Medical facilities in Goma – and second city Bukavu to the south – are overwhelmed, with over 2,000 injuries reported since the beginning of January, including many from gunshot wounds. Hospitals lack adequate medical supplies, fuel and staff to manage the growing influx of patients.

    The World Health Organization (WHO), International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), and Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) are urgently working to bolster healthcare services, but with supply chains disrupted and facilities at capacity, response efforts are severely strained.

    Additionally, health authorities warn of an increasing risk of disease outbreaks, including cholera, measles and mpox, due to mass displacement, unsafe water sources and inadequate sanitation.

    Escalating insecurity in North Kivu

    In the village of Kiziba, on the outskirts of Goma, civilians are reporting armed men in military uniforms carrying out widespread looting, extortion and sexual violence, according to Radio Okapi, the station run by UN peacekeeping mission in DRC, MONUSCO.

    Meanwhile, Stéphane Dujarric, the Secretary-General Spokesperson reported that other armed groups in the east, including Zaïre and the CODECO militias, have increased attacks against the population in Djugu territory in the past month, robbing civilians.

    At least six people have been killed since last weekend and as a result, many have stopped using roads in the area, which also prevents them from going to their fields or to markets.

    Reports indicate that some roads have reopened, but mass displacement continues, with at least 700,000 people now internally displaced within North Kivu and South Kivu.

    MONUSCO/Aubin Mukoni

    Military uniforms and personal possessions litter the streets of Goma in the eastern DR Congo following an attack by a rebel armed group.

    Peacekeepers’ response

    Peacekeepers with (MONUSCO) have launched the second phase of an operation called Horizon of Peace in Djugu territory, aiming to contain an escalation of violence by armed groups, according to Mr. Dujarric.

    MONUSCO peacekeepers have stepped up patrols on several roads in the territory to support the free movement of people and goods.

    Calls for international action 

    Bruno Lemarquis, the UN’s Humanitarian Coordinator for DR Congo, has issued a strong plea for immediate international support. “I call on the international community to step up its support in the face of a worsening humanitarian crisis,” he stated.

    Emergency food agency WFP has reiterated its readiness to resume food distributions as soon as security conditions permit, but without immediate access, thousands remain at risk of starvation and disease.

    MONUSCO/Aubin Mukoni

    UN peacekeepers return to base after patrolling the streets of Goma.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Expands Educational Opportunities for American Families

    Source: The White House

    DEFENDING PARENTAL RIGHTS AND EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITY: Today, President Donald J. Trump signed an Executive Order expanding educational freedom and opportunity for families. It recognizes that parents, not the government, play a fundamental role in choosing and directing the upbringing and education of their children.

    • It directs the Department of Education to issue guidance on how the States can use federal funding formulas to support their K-12 scholarship programs.
    • It directs the Secretary of Education to prioritize school choice programs in the Department’s discretionary grant programs.
    • The Order requires the Department of Health and Human Services to issue guidance on how states receiving block grants for children and families can use those funds to support educational alternatives, including private and faith-based options.
    • It directs the Secretary of Defense to submit a plan to the President for how military families can use Department of Defense funds to send their children to the school of their choice.
    • The Order also directs the Secretary of the Interior to submit a plan to the President for how families with students attending Bureau of Indian Education schools can use federal funds to send their children to the school of their choice.

    EMPOWERING PARENTS AND STUDENTS THROUGH SCHOOL CHOICE: Every child deserves the best education available, regardless of their zip code. However, for generations, our government-assigned education system has failed millions of parents, students, and teachers. This Executive Order begins to rectify that wrong by opening up opportunities for students to attend the school that best fits their needs.

    • According to the latest National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), 70% of 8th graders were below proficient in reading and 72% were below proficient in math. 40% of 4th graders did not even meet the basic reading levels. 
    • Standardized test scores have essentially been flat for over 30 years, despite hundreds of billions of dollars spent on government-run education.
    • A dozen states have universal or near universal school choice programs and 33 states have some form of school choice program.
    • School choice programs have a strong record of improving students’ academic performance.
    • School choice has proven to be cost effective and saves taxpayer dollars.
    • Parents report higher levels of school safety for their children who participate in school choice programs.
    • Support for school choice is overwhelming, with 70% of Democrats, 73% of Black Americans, and 69% of Hispanic Americans in favor of it.
    • President Trump is dedicated to ensuring every child has the opportunity to receive a world-class education.

    FULFILLING THE PROMISE TO STRENGTHEN EDUCATION THROUGH FREEDOM AND OPPORTUNITY: President Trump promised to bring school choice to every family in the Nation. Today’s historic executive order is a critical step in delivering on that promise, and builds on the long list of accomplishments from the first Trump Administration, including:

    • Calling on Congress to pass the School Choice Now Act and the Education Freedom Scholarships and Opportunity Act.
    • Providing in-person learning options for low-income parents forced to send their children to virtual school during the pandemic.
    • Re-authorizing the D.C. Opportunity Scholarship program twice.
    • Investing nearly $1.5 billion in the development of public charter schools, helping this innovative sector grow to 7,500 charter schools serving more than 3 million students.
    • Allowing parents across the nation to withdraw up to $10,000 tax-free per year from 529 education savings plans to cover public, private, or religious K-12 schooling costs, thanks to the President’s historic tax cuts.

    Parents can be confident that under his Administration, President Trump will provide every available opportunity for parents to enrich the education of their children through individual choice.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: 25+ Years of National Recognition for Diabetes Education

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    The American Diabetes Association recognizes UConn Health’s Diabetes Self-Management Education Program for offering high-quality education for patient self-care and support services.

    Luriza Glynn, nurse practitioner and UConn Health’s Diabetes Self-Management Education Program cooridnator (right), speaks with a patient about her insulin pump. (2019 file photo by Chris DeFrancesco)

    The recertification under ADA’s Education Recognition Program is in recognition of the educational services at UConn Health meeting the ADA’s national standards for diabetes self-management education programs.

    “This recognition is a testimony of the dedication to clinical excellence and in patient-centered delivery of care,” says Dr. Francisco Celi, endocrinologist and chair of the UConn School of Medicine’s Department of Medicine. “Our diabetes educators provide an invaluable contribution to the care of our patients, enabling to develop a truly personalized holistic care plan which include lifestyle modifications, dietary education, and effective use of the medications. Very often our diabetes educators uncover unrecognized barriers which prevent the optimal management of diabetes. By addressing these challenges we can be more effective in treating patients living with diabetes.”

    Dr. Parvathy Madhavan, one of UConn Health’s endocrinologists who specializes in diabetes, meets with a patient. (Tina Encarnacion/UConn Health Photo)

    ADA-recognized programs provide evidence-based and outcome-driven intervention and ensure a staff of knowledgeable health professionals will teach participants self-care skills that will promote better management of their diabetes treatment regimen, covering the following topics:

    • Diabetes disease process
    • Nutritional management
    • Physical activity
    • Medications
    • Monitoring
    • Preventing, detecting, and treating acute complications
    • Preventing, detecting, and treating chronic complications through risk reduction
    • Goal setting and problem solving
    • Psychological adjustment
    • Preconception care, management during pregnancy, and gestational management
    Dr. Pooja Luthra specializes in diabetes and metabolism, endocrine neoplasia, endocrinology, and osteoporosis at UConn Health. (Tina Encarnacion/UConn Health photo)

    “Empowering lives, one step at a time,” says Dr. Pooja Luthra, endocrinologist and physician lead of UConn Health’s Diabetes Self-Management Education Program. “We are proud to be recognized by the American Diabetes Association for our commitment to excellence in diabetes education. Together, we make a difference.”

    UConn Health’s program has earned this distinction continuously since its first ADA recognition in 2000.

    “For 25 years, UConn Health’s ADA-recognized diabetes education program has been a cornerstone of support, guidance, and empowerment for individuals managing diabetes,” says Luriza Glynn, nurse practitioner and program coordinator. “This milestone reflects UConn Health’s unwavering commitment to providing high-quality, evidence-based education that improves lives. As we celebrate this achievement, we honor the dedication of our educators, the resilience of our patients, and the continued innovation that drives us forward. Here’s to 25 years of impact and many more to come!”

    Many of those who care for people with diabetes at UConn Health during Diabetes Awareness Month November 2023 (Photo provided by Luriza Glynn)

    Barbara Eichorst, the ADA’s vice president of health programs, says, “Diabetes self-management education and support (DSMES) is an essential part of managing diabetes and is as effective as diabetes medication. Therefore, all people with diabetes benefit from it. We applaud UConn Health’s Diabetes Self-Management Education Program for its commitment to providing value-based interventions such as DSMES, maximizing corresponding outcomes, and patient experience.”

    “This is a major accomplishment and the standards required by the American Diabetes Association are high,” says Anne Horbatuck, chief operating officer of the UConn Medical Group and vice president for ambulatory operations. “This honor demonstrates the quality, dedication, and hard work by the leaders, Dr. Pooja Luthra and Luriza Glynn, APRN, diabetes education coordinator, and the whole team. This program has had huge success improving patient outcomes and providing education to our patients to better manage their diabetes and improve their overall health.”

    Learn more about diabetes care at UConn Health.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: UConn Cancer Center Provides Free Screenings at UConn Huskies Coaches vs. Cancer Game

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    Imagine discovering cancer early—potentially saving your life—simply because you attended a basketball game where cancer screenings were offered.

    That would be an incredible story a powerful reminder of how important outreach events can be. Early cancer detection dramatically improves survival rates, and offering screenings in unexpected but accessible places, like a sports arena, breaks down barriers for people who might not otherwise seek care.

    Lauren Rondinone, Dr. John Birk, Stephanie McGinn, Allison Rinaldi, Jillian Fal from gastroenterology.

    On Wednesday, January 29, as thousands of UConn Huskies fans filed into the XL Center in Hartford, Connecticut to watch the men’s basketball team take on DePaul, they probably weren’t thinking about cancer. However, as the official healthcare provider of UConn Athletics, UConn Health teamed up for the annual Coaches for Cancer game to provide fans with free education and access to cancer screenings.

    Coaches vs. Cancer is a nationwide initiative that empowers basketball coaches, their teams and their local communities to make a difference in the fight against cancer. The main goal is to increase cancer awareness, promote healthy living, and fundraise through activities.

    Jessica Santos-Martinez, Rosa Agosto and Maggie Donohue helped fans navigate questions about breast cancer and mammograms

    “It’s not just about the medical aspect; it’s about meeting people where they are and creating opportunities for proactive health care. This kind of initiative combines community engagement with life-saving interventions—it’s a win for all,” says Omar Ibrahim, director of Interventional Pulmonary at UConn Health.

    Before the doors opened at 6:30 p.m., where fans would find Andrea Hurley, wife of head coach Dan Hurley, creating memorial buttons to wear during the game, doctors, medical students, and residents from UConn Dermatology and the Carole and Ray Neag Comprehensive Cancer Center at UConn Health (Cancer Center) offered skin cancer screenings in the XL Center Atrium.

    Once in the arena, doctors and medical professionals were on hand to provide information about colon, lung and breast cancer while determining the need for potential screenings.  Fans were encouraged prior to and during the game to take the opportunity to learn more about cancer prevention and protecting their health.

    Dr. Philip Kerr, Seda Gul Sahin, James Mackenzie, Tim Klufas, Aziz Khan, Sueheidi Santiago, Tannaz Sedghi, Sonal Muzumdar, Lauren Skudalski

    “Regular cancer screenings are crucial for early detection, significantly increasing the chances of successful treatment and survival by identifying cancers before they develop symptoms, allowing for timely intervention and potentially life-saving care,” says Kim Hamilton, program coordinator, Community Outreach and Engagement at the Cancer Center.

    Kateri of Southbury emphasized the importance of events like this in raising awareness, sharing that early detection allowed her to receive treatment and reach one year in remission. “After my diagnosis, I made it my mission to spread awareness—that’s why events like this matter.”

    “The Community Outreach and Engagement team at the Carole and Ray Neag Comprehensive Cancer Center was thrilled to join Andrea Hurley’s cancer screening initiative at the Coaches vs. Cancer game. Hundreds of fans and staff stopped by for information and to schedule screenings for skin, lung, breast, and colon cancer. We’re proud to be the official healthcare provider of the UConn Huskies,” said Julie Dudek, academic administrative manager, Cancer Center.

    “UConn Health’s Cancer Center was excited to partner with UConn Athletics and Andrea Hurley to provide cancer screening education and skin cancer checks at the American Cancer Society Coaches vs Cancer game. We look forward to continuing this partnership with Mrs. Hurley and at other UConn Athletics sporting events,” says Hamilton.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Teamwork is also Behind the Scenes at UConn Health

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    When you are expecting to have a surgery, the Central Sterile Processing Department and its dozens of staffers are preparing behind the scenes all the tools that are needed by your surgeons and for you too! Preparations even start the night before at the UConn Health Surgery Center as well as the UConn John Dempsey Hospital’s OR.

    In fact, Central Sterile is “central” to the operating room and a procedure’s safety and success. All medical and surgical supplies, both sterile and nonsterile, are cleaned, prepared, processed, stored, and issued for patient care by this Department.

    Volodymyr Levytskyy, assistant supervisor of Central Sterile, sterilizing the prepared instrument cases for use in surgery and procedures at UConn Health (January 9. 2025. Tina Encarnacion/UConn Health Photo).

    The Department is home to three huge washers, four sterilizers, and hundreds of instruments that need to be processed daily for approximately twenty-five operations occurring each day.

    All surgical instruments and tools are washed after each surgery to be decontaminated by hand, washed in the washer disinfectors, hand assembled, wrapped, and labeled by staffers before finally being placed in the sterilizers.

    The Department services not only the operating rooms needs, but also urgent care centers around the State of Connecticut, UConn Health’s vast outpatient care facilities, and even the UConn dental school’s clinics.

    A new digital system called T Doc has recently launched to replace the long standing, traditional paper tracking process for surgical instruments. It is further enhancing UConn Health’s regulatory compliance and tracking of instruments. Instruments can now be scanned to identify when they have been sterilized, what sterilization parameters were used and where the item should be stored after sterilization.

    “Central Sterile is one of the most highly regulated areas of a health system,” stresses Ellen Benson, RN associate director of Procedural Services and manager of the Sterile Processing Department at UConn Health. All instruments are tracked to ensure sterility, the rooms are monitored to ensure that they maintain the correct temperature and humidity for storing instruments and even the water supply is closely monitored.

    Ryley Finn, with fellow instrument tech Elzbieta Brzostek-Parciak, and supervisor Minnie Torres (January 9, 2025. (Tina Encarnacion/UConn Health Photo).

    “It’s all about patient safety,” says Benson. “Patient safety all starts with Central Sterile ensuring that instruments are cleaned and sterilized properly; the first step in helping to prevent surgical site infections. It takes a village. No surgery can be performed without the instruments.  Without the Central Sterile team, we just can’t do surgery.”

    The instrument techs know the ins and outs about all the instruments used across the surgical specialties, and are constantly learning about new tools and their individual required cleaning and sterilization processes.

    “I always see the instrument techs reaching out to each other for advice, sharing knowledge, and helping each other. It’s true teamwork!” says Benson. “They work so hard!”

    Benson has been in health care for 42 years and has spent the last 35 years at UConn Health inside the operating rooms.

    “It’s a huge team effort across the board in the OR. There are a lot of people supporting our patients behind the scenes for their journey in the operating room.  Our volume has increased significantly over the years. We have never been busier than we are today.”

    She adds, “It takes many people to get a patient through surgery. We have doctors, nurses, surgical techs and other support staff all working together for the patients.”

    From X-ray, the blood bank, to the labs – the team is very tightly woven with everyone across the hospital.

    T Doc, a new digital system for tracking surgical instruments, has successfully launched (January 9. 2025. Tina Encarnacion/UConn Health Photo).

    Additionally, there is always the unexpected for the Central Sterile team to handle.

    “We get a lot of patients from the ED who may need surgery urgently, patients experiencing a stroke, appendicitis, or a herniated disc. They come straight to us, we get ready quickly and we take good care of them!” says Benson.

    Benson and her team know that when patients come to the hospital for care, it can be one of the most vulnerable times in their life. Some surgeries are elective, and they are able to “cure” their problem and send them home, others are diagnosed with illness that require additional care.

    “We are here to support our patients and their families, who are waiting, hoping, and worrying. Spending a few minutes with family members goes a long way to make them feel more at ease. It’s amazing what 5 minutes of your time, and offering a piece of candy or a drink of water can do for a family member to make them feel comforted,” says Benson.

    Minnie Torres of Harwinton has worked for UConn Health for 16 years. She worked her way up from an instrument tech in the Department to now supervisor of Central Sterile the last four years.

    “It’s very rewarding to work in Central Sterile. I’m very proud of the work we do. Also, the people I work with at UConn Health make it worth while too. We cheer each other on,” says Torres.

    “Everyone in Central Sterile comes together as a fast-paced team each day and jumps in to help and get everything washed, sterilized, and processed. Our work is tedious but exciting. At the end of the day our jobs are very fulfilling as we are making a true difference in the lives of others.”

    Torres adds, “When people hear you work at UConn, they are wowed. They know we work hard, and we hit the ground running every day.”

    Central Sterile has a family-like atmosphere. Ryley Finn, Elzbieta Brzostek-Parciak, and Minnie Torres (January 9, 2025. Tina Encarnacion/UConn Health Photo).

    Ryley Finn of Farmington has served as an instrument tech in the Department for the last two years.

    “I wanted to learn, so I came to work here at UConn Health,” says Finn. “I really like it here and I like my colleagues. I am always learning new things.”

    Finn loves the opportunity she and her colleagues at UConn Health have to watch surgeries and the instruments used in action to get a full picture of the OR process and to better understand how each instrument they prepare for use works.

    “To see how the tools work in action is really cool and how we play a critical role to help patients during surgery,” says Finn.

    To keep up with the growing patient volumes and demands for UConn Health clinical and surgical services soon Central Sterile will be moving toward a 24/7 operation. UConn Health is renovating the older Connecticut Tower space of the department and the team is looking forward into moving back into that space.

    “I am so proud of the Central Sterile team,” says Benson. “We have the best team.”

    “That’s Mom,” Torres and Finn heartwarmingly refer to Benson as.

    “My colleagues are my family too. We will always be there to support each other,” says Benson.

    Thank you Central Sterile for all you do!

    This content is part of a collaborative initiative of the Office of Diversity and Inclusion, with UConn Health’s Chief Diversity Officer Dr. Jeffrey Hines, to celebrate the institution’s shared values and its workforce. Send your word-of-the-month nominations to thehub@uchc.edu

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Mission 300: African leaders pledge to advance clean cooking solutions for Africa at milestone Energy Summit

    Source: African Development Bank Group

    African countries have taken bold commitments to implement clean cooking energy solutions to offset the devastating effects of open fire cooking which kills roughly 600,000  women and children annually across the continent.

    In energy compacts signed during the Mission 300 Africa Energy Summit, held in Tanzania 27-28 January, 12 African countries signalled their intent to  accelerate the pace of access to electricity and clean cooking solutions on the world’s fastest-growing continent, in line with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 7 and the African Union’s Agenda 2063.

    Commending these countries, Tanzanian President Suluhu Hassan stated in closing remarks: “I understand that the 12 governments have only pioneered, and many others will join us in the future.” Earlier, at the opening speaking about the purpose of the summit she said, “This gathering is a platform to consolidate commitments, announce new partnerships and drive momentum towards the 2030 goal.”

    President Suluhu Hassan of Tanzania, global Clean Cooking ambassador at the Africa Energy Summit. January 2025

    The two-day meeting was organized by the Government of Tanzania and Mission 300, an unprecedented collaboration between the African Development Bank Group, the World Bank Group and global partners, to address Africa’s electricity access gap through the use of new technology and innovative financing.

    Moderating a special panel on clean cooking on Monday, Rashid Abdallah, Executive Director of the African Energy Commission (AFREC), noted that whilst 600 million Africans live without access to electricity, one billion -nearly double the number – were without access to clean cooking, relying on biomass fuels such as wood and charcoal, with severe economic, social and environmental impact. Conservative estimates put the cost of this across the continent to $790 billion a year, he noted.

    Abdallah was joined by Dr. Richard Muyungi, Special Envoy to the President of Tanzania, Peter Scott, CEO of Burn Manufacturing, and Martin Kimani, CEO of M-Gas, who each highlighted the significant health, environmental, and economic impacts of relying on polluting fuels for cooking, as well as the innovative approaches being developed to address this crisis.

    Muyungi shared Tanzania’s experience in launching a comprehensive National Clean Cooking Strategy, emphasizing the importance of high-level political commitment, coordinated stakeholder engagement, and the integration of private sector participation. 

    He praised President Hassan’s role as a global champion bringing the issue to the highest level of African governments.

    “It is important to elevate it to the highest level… She is the champion of clean cooking,” he said.  He stressed: “It’s important that there is a champion who can elevate clean cooking in terms of partnerships and partner with others to address this issue. He added that Tanzania is on track to transition 80 percent of its population to clean cooking technologies by 2034, thanks to the efforts of President Hassan.

    Scott, whose company Burn Manufacturing is the largest clean cooking manufacturer in Africa, discussed the diverse range of solutions being deployed across the continent, from fuel-efficient biomass stoves to cutting-edge electric cooking appliances with pay-as-you-go financing models. He stressed the availability of funding for clean cooking projects, pending the approval of carbon credit regulations by governments.

    Panel session on clean cooking at Mission 300 Africa Energy Summit. Tanzania, January 2025. (L-R ) Dr. Richard Muyungi, Special Envoy to the President of Tanzania, Martin Kimani, CEO,M-Gas,   Peter Scott, CEO of Burn Manufacturing, Rashid Abdallah ED, African Energy Commission (AFREC)

    “This is the most exciting time in the history of clean cooking,” Scott declared. “Now, there’s a lot of money standing by to approve carbon credit regulations to allow carbon trading, carbon finance, to grow. “

    Kimani’s pioneering pay-as-you-cook LPG model has provided an innovative and affordable solution to enable households to transition to clean cooking. He shared the success of M-Gas in onboarding half a million households in Kenya and Tanzania within just three years, demonstrating the scalability of this approach. “One of the most important considerations is affordability, how do we close that gap?” he asked.

    M-Gas has found an answer by installing IOT enabled smart meters which are fixed into gas cylinders without upfront payment.

    “We mirror the (pay as you go) environment they can now cook using LPG. With 35 cents they can cook three meals in a day,” he added.

    Tanzania pioneers clean cooking and global awareness

    Tanzania published its clean cooking strategy in 2024-2034 last year in response to its own challenges – 3,000 people dying annually and the effects of a devastating 400 hectares of deforestation annually from the use of charcoal and firewood.

    Championed by President Hassan, the Clean Cooking agenda has embraced everyone and is part of the national agenda, Muyungi said. “This discussion has highlighted the innovative approaches and the political will required to transform the lives of millions of Africans and secure a sustainable future for the continent.”

    In a recognition of national efforts, awards were handed out to winners of a national clean cooking innovation challenge on the first day of the summit. The winners included creators of a biogas production plant and a click gas LPG delivery system.

    Winners of a Tanzania national Clean Cooking Challenge received awards during the Africa Energy Summit held in Tanzania, January 2025. 

    The African Development Bank Group has pledged $2 billion over 10 years towards clean cooking solutions in Africa. The pledge represents an important contribution to the $4 billion per year needed to allow African families to have access to clean cooking by 2030.

    “Why should anybody have to die just for trying to cook a decent meal that is taken for granted in other parts of the world,” African Development Bank President Akinwumi Adesina asked during a discussion as part of the summit. “Africa must develop with dignity, with pride. Its women, its population must have access to clean energy solutions.”

    Winners of a Tanzania national Clean Cooking Challenge received awards during the Africa Energy Summit held in Tanzania, January 2025. 

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Wyden, Bonamici Reintroduce Bill to Connect Child Care with Affordable Housing

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore)
    January 30, 2025
    Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Ron Wyden, D-Ore., with five colleagues in the Senate, reintroduced legislation to help working families access affordable housing and child care. U.S. Representative Suzanne Bonamici, D-Ore., introduced companion legislation in the House.
    The Build Housing with Care Act would invest $500 million to construct child care centers co-located in affordable housing developments and cover the costs of retrofitting to help family child care providers operate in housing developments. The bill prioritizes projects that are located in child care deserts or rural communities, as well as projects that include qualified Head Start providers and providers primarily serving low-income children.
    “Working families across Oregon are struggling to put food on the table and pay their rent on time. When you add the cost of child care to the equation, families are forced to shoulder an impossible choice,” Wyden said. “Increasing supply of both housing and child care will help lower costs so that caregivers and parents can more easily afford basic necessities and keep their families healthy and safe.”
    “Too many families in Oregon and across the country struggle to find affordable housing and affordable child care,” Bonamici said. “Co-locating child care centers with affordable housing is a proven strategy that increases benefits for children, families, and the economy. I’m pleased to partner with Senator Wyden on this common sense effort that will create more opportunities and a better future for American families.”
    It is estimated that funding from the Build Housing with Care Act could build more than 120 new co-located child care centers, supporting the development of critical care supply in connection with affordable housing. A report from the Low Income Investment Fund, Including Family Child Care in Affordable Housing, highlights the many policy opportunities and benefits of co-location as “an opportunity to respond to severe housing and child care shortages simultaneously.”
    The Senate legislation is cosponsored by Senators Jeff Merkley, D-Ore., Amy Klobuchar, D-Minn., Alex Padilla, D-Calif., Jacky Rosen, D-Nev., and Cory Booker, D-N.J.  
    The Building Housing with Care Act is endorsed by the Low Income Investment Fund; Local Initiatives Support Corporation; Oregon Housing and Community Services; Family Forward Oregon; First Five Years Fund; National Housing Law Project; National Association of Counties; National Partnership for Women & Families; UnidosUS; National Association for Latino Community Asset Builders; Purpose Built Communities Foundation, Inc; National Women’s Law Center; Early Care & Education Consortium; ZERO TO THREE; National Association for County Community and Economic Development; National Children’s Facilities Network; Family Values @ Work; Center for Law and Social Policy; National Association for the Education of Young Children; and the First Focus Campaign on Children.  
    “We all deserve the opportunity to provide for our families,” said Candice Vickers, Executive Director of Family Forward Oregon. “When child care is an afterthought in economic developments and investments, parents and caregivers — and those they care for — suffer. Our future suffers. Child care must be at the forefront of planning, and the Build Housing with Care Act does just that. Ensuring parents and caregivers have access to affordable child care in their neighborhoods allows families to not only survive but thrive.”
    Wyden has been a longtime advocate for increasing affordable housing in Oregon and across the nation. In May 2023, Senator Wyden and his colleagues reintroduced a bipartisan bill to address the housing crisis by building two million affordable homes over the next decade. In July 2024, Wyden and Bonamici wrote a letter to the Biden administration to invest in affordable housing following the criminalization of homelessness in Grants Pass v. Johnson. In March 2023, Wyden reintroduced legislation to solve the housing crisis by increasing supply, and expanding homeownership opportunities, especially for young people, by creating a new down payment tax credit for first-time homebuyers. 
    The Building Housing with Care Act bill text is here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: In Intelligence Hearing, King Raises Questions About Director of National Intelligence Nominee’s Judgement

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maine Angus King
    WASHINGTON, D.C. — In an open cabinet confirmation hearing of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence (SSCI) considering the nomination of former Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard for Director of National Intelligence, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-ME) questioned the candidate’s decision-making in the past. In the conversation with Gabbard, King questioned her about a House resolution she introduced in 2020 calling for all charges to be dropped against Edward Snowden, a former National Security Agency (NSA) intelligence contractor who was indicted on espionage charges before fleeing to Russia where he was granted asylum.
    “You introduced a bill in 2020 that was essentially a pardon. It basically said all charges should be dropped. You had a lot of ‘whereas’s’ is in that bill, where did the factual basis for those whereas clauses come from,” asked Senator King.
    “Senator if I recall, in that bill, came from publicly available information,” said Gabbard.
    “I see. And were you aware that there was a bipartisan committee report from the House Intelligence Committee in 2016 on Snowden activities,” questioned Senator King.
    “I don’t recall specifically at that time, but I am aware of that committee’s report and executive summary that was reported publicly. I did not have access to the classified report that that summary was based on,” replied Gabbard.
    “Did you read that report prior to filing your bill in 2020,” asked Senator King.
    “Senator, I don’t recall specifically. I remember reading a lot of materials prior to filing that bill,” responded Gabbard.
    “Well, the bipartisan committee report, the first item: ‘Edward Snowden perpetrated the largest and most damaging public release of classified information in U.S. intelligence history and goes on to say Snowden caused tremendous damage to national security, and the vast majority of the documents he stole have nothing to do with programs impacting individual privacy.’ But you don’t recall ever seeing the work of that committee,” asked Senator King.
    “I’m aware of those conclusions drawn,” said Gabbard.
    “You are aware now; were you aware at the time,” questioned Senator King “You introduced a bill in Congress, along with Congressman Matt Gaetz, to essentially pardon him, so he broke the law, but it wasn’t all that serious. Is that what you thought in 2020.”
    “I take very seriously upholding our Constitution, and have sworn an oath to support and defend that Constitution over eight times in my life, my statements in the past have been reflective of the egregious and illegal programs that were exposed in that leak,” replied Gabbard.
    “But you ignore the vast majority, as the committee found bipartisan. I think Devin Nunes was the chair. Adam Schiff was the Vice Chair. The conclusion was that the vast majority of these things that he released had nothing to do with Constitutional rights, the Fourth Amendment, but indeed were enormous compromises of our national security,” said Senator King.
    A member of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence and the Senate Armed Services Committee, Senator King is recognized as a thoughtful voice on national security and foreign policy issues. In addition to his committee work, Senator King serves on the Congressional-Executive Commission on China, the Senate North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Observer Group, and is co-chair of the Cyberspace Solarium Commission — which has had dozens of recommendations become law. He has introduced bipartisan legislation to establish a commission tasked with developing a comprehensive whole-of-government approach for how the United States should address the economic, security and diplomatic challenges posed by China.
    Recently, Senator King published an Op-Ed and spoke with CNN regarding his positions on the advise and consent process of Cabinet-Level nominees.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: In Senate Hearing, RFK Jr. Refuses to Say HPV Vaccine is Safe to Sen. Patty Murray, Pressed on Credible Accusation of Sexual Assault

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray
    Murray: “There are political realities, we all get that—but there is also right and wrong, fact and fiction. And there’s also people staying healthy, or people dying pointlessly from diseases we can prevent because they thought Congress took its job vetting our health care secretary seriously.”
    Murray, a longtime congressional leader on health care who has led hearings on addressing vaccine hesitancy, has been a leading vocal opponent of RFK Jr.’s nomination—speaking out on the Senate floor, holding events, raising the alarm after meeting with him
    *** VIDEO of Senator Murray’s FULL questioning with RFK Jr. HERE***
    Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), a senior member and former Chair of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee, questioned RFK Jr. at the Senate HELP Committee hearing on his nomination for Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS)—pressing him forcefully on whether he stands by false statements he made about the HPV vaccine and asking about credible accusations of sexual harassment and assault against him.
    RFK Jr. has long been one of the anti-vaccine movement’s loudest, proudest champions—peddling dangerous, debunked views and funding anti-vaccine causes—and there is much he could do as HHS Secretary to cause chaos and real harm to families,  from firing top scientists and researchers, to ripping away the approval or insurance coverage of all kinds of vaccines and medicines, to ending our focus on infectious disease research, as he has threatened to do.
    Murray began her questioning at today’s hearing by reiterating that HHS has broad and critical responsibilities to protect and preserve health care and social services, from advancing women’s health, to improving child care, to bolstering biomedical research—all priorities of hers—but she would use her limited time for questioning to ask about vaccines. Also noting the tragic plane crash last night in DC, Murray called it “a painful reminder that we need competent people running our federal agencies to respond when a crisis strikes.”
    “I think we can agree that cancer is particularly a nefarious chronic disease. And the American Cancer Society reported earlier this month that women under 50 are experiencing a dramatic increase in incidence of the disease. Fortunately, there is clear data showing that the HPV vaccine has saved lives and cut cervical cancer rates dramatically. You have called the HPV vaccine ‘dangerous and defective’ and said it ‘actually increases the risk of cervical cancer.’ Do you stand by those statements? Yes or no?”
    Kennedy filibustered, refusing to answer directly—Murray pressed him to answer the question, then continued, “You said that: ‘no loving parents would allow their daughter to receive this vaccine.’ If confirmed as HHS Secretary, would you recommend that parents get their children vaccinated against HPV? Yes or no?”
    “I’ll just remind everybody—parents look to our health leaders for advice on these decisions; you would be a health leader,” Murray said, asking unanimous consent to enter Mr. Kennedy’s numerous statements disparaging the HPV vaccine and others into the record.
    Murray continued by asking Mr. Kennedy about accusations of sexual harassment and assault by Eliza Cooney, who was hired as a part-time babysitter by his family. “When you were confronted about this accusation, you said you were ‘not a church boy’ and that you ‘have so many skeletons in my closet,’ Murray said. “You then texted Miss Cooney an apology and indicated you had no memory of what she described. Mr. Kennedy, I’m asking you to respond to those accusations seriously in front of this committee. Did you make sexual advances towards Miss Cooney without her consent?”
    Kennedy denied the allegations, calling them “debunked,” despite credible reporting to the contrary, when pressed on why he apologized, Kennedy claimed he texted Cooney an apology for a separate reason—in contrast to the published texts. Mr. Kennedy then told the full committee that he had never made any unwanted sexual advances towards any individual without their consent.
    “My time is almost up, but having read a lot and listened a lot, I just want to remind all my colleagues that by voting to confirm Mr. Kennedy, we would be telling our constituents he is worth listening to,” Murray said. “That alone will get people killed—before he even lifts a finger. Because he does not even need the levers of power to influence people, as we saw in Samoa—all he needs is a megaphone.
    “To affirm his views by voting to confirm him as our highest health official—we should not mince words about what that will mean. When babies die from whooping cough because parents weren’t sure if the vaccine was safe, we will have to look them in the eye. When measles sweeps through schools, hospitals, nursing wards—will this be worth it?”
    “There are political realities, we all get that—but there is also right and wrong, fact and fiction. And there’s also people staying healthy, or people dying pointlessly from diseases we can prevent because they thought Congress took its job vetting our health care secretary seriously,” Murray concluded.
    When President-elect Donald J. Trump first announced his intention to select Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as Secretary of HHS, Murray immediately and forcefully condemned the move—and she has consistently spoken out and laid out for her colleagues the case against his nomination since, including in a lengthy Senate floor speech earlier this month—VIDEO HERE. Murray met with RFK Jr. on January 15th and released a statement afterward reiterating her opposition to his nomination and urging her colleagues, “to be honest with themselves about the stakes of putting one of the anti-vaccine movement’s loudest, proudest champions in charge of HHS and join me in opposing RFK Jr.’s nomination.”  In December, Murray held a roundtable discussion at UW Medicine on the importance of scientific research and vaccines—especially for children—and spoke about how having RFK Jr. lead HHS would threaten Americans’ health and safety.
    As a longtime appropriator and former Chair of the Senate HELP Committee, Murray has long fought to boost biomedical research, strengthen public health infrastructure, and make health care more affordable and accessible. Over her years as a senior member of the Appropriations Committee, she has secured billions of dollars in increases for biomedical research at the National Institutes of Health, and during her time as Chair of the HELP Committee she established the new ARPA-H research agency as part of her PREVENT Pandemics Act to advance some of the most cutting-edge research in the field. As Chair of the HELP Committee, Murray was also instrumental in crafting the American Rescue Plan Act, including its landmark investments in public health and health care. Senator Murray was also the lead Democratic negotiator of the bipartisan 21st Century Cures Act, which delivered a major federal investment to boost NIH research, among many other investments. Murray is also the lead sponsor of the Public Health Infrastructure Saves Lives Act (PHISLA), legislation to establish $4.5 billion in dedicated, annual funding for a grant program to build up and maintain the nation’s public health system across the board. 
    In 2019, Senator Murray co-led a bipartisan hearing in the HELP Committee on vaccine hesitancy and spoke about the importance of addressing vaccine skepticism and getting people the facts they need to keep their families and communities safe and healthy. Ahead of the hearing, as multiple states were facing measles outbreaks in under-vaccinated areas, Murray sent a bipartisan letter with former HELP Committee Chair Lamar Alexander (R-TN) pressing the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Director and HHS Assistant Secretary for Health on their efforts to promote vaccination and vaccine confidence.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Refocusing continuing care for the future

    [. As their needs evolve, it is important that older adults and vulnerable populations have access to the support they need to maintain their quality of life and independence so they can age with dignity. Over the next 10 years, the demand for continuing care in Alberta is projected to grow by 80 per cent, increasing even faster as people live longer and with more complex needs.

    Alberta’s government is establishing Assisted Living Alberta – the new provincial continuing care agency – as part of the province’s health refocusing. This will ensure the province is well-positioned to meet the future needs that are anticipated with Alberta’s both growing and aging population. Assisted Living Alberta will provide Albertans access to a comprehensive system of continuing care with a full range of wraparound services, including medical and non-medical supports, home care, community care and social services. This transition will allow the province to place a holistic social service lens on assisted living services to deliver care more effectively and consistently throughout the province. By taking this approach, individuals and families will have more options when they need care and as their needs evolve, helping older adults and vulnerable populations maintain their quality of life and independence.

    “As the need for continuing care services in Alberta grows, I am committed to working with health, social services and continuing care professionals to transform the system and ensure the new provincial agency, Assisted Living Alberta, meets all Albertans’ needs. This change ensures Albertans have access to a full range of wraparound supports to meet their evolving needs and maintain their independence and quality of life as they age or require more support.”

    Jason Nixon, Minister of Seniors, Community and Social Services

    Assisted Living Alberta is on track to be established and become an entity by April 1, and will be fully operational by fall 2025. The new agency will align medical and non-medical supports and services, increase continuing care spaces, reduce wait times, and provide comprehensive wraparound supports for Albertans who require different levels and types of care. This includes both seniors in long-term care and those who want to continue aging at home but need supports to do so, as well as people with disabilities, individuals experiencing homelessness and other vulnerable Albertans who require temporary or long-term care. Refocusing Alberta’s health care system ensures all Albertans have access to the services and support they need, when and where they need it.

    “Improving health care services is a top priority for our government. We are committed to addressing the urgent need for enhanced assisted living services across our growing province. I look forward to working alongside the Ministry of Seniors, Community and Social Services to bring Albertans more options and the high quality of care they need close to home.”

    Adriana LaGrange, Minister of Health

    Albertans currently receiving care, and those who need care, will continue to have access to the services they need. A transition committee led by Dr. Sayeh Zielke, author, cardiologist and medical director of Chinook Cardiology, along with leaders from health care, continuing care, social services and other local organizations, will provide the minister with advice to support this transformation. Committee members were chosen based on their experience, diverse perspectives, leadership and background in the continuing care and social services space. The committee’s work will be essential to ensuring a smooth and seamless transition with no disruptions.

    “It is an honour to be playing a role in helping transform Alberta’s continuing care system. Our goal is to put patients and clients first and give our front-line workers the support they need, which is why it is so important that we are taking the time to gets things right and consulting directly with Albertans.” 

    Dr. Zielke, cardiologist and medical director of Chinook Cardiology and chair of the Assisted Living Transition Committee

    Albertans are invited to share their feedback, support the stand up of Assisted Living Alberta and help shape the future of continuing care through online engagement that will be open from Jan. 30 to March 3 at Alberta.ca/lead-the-way. Continuing care providers and health care and continuing care workers will also have an opportunity to provide feedback through targeted engagement that will be open at the same time. Albertans’ insights and perspectives will help lead the way in improving the system to ensure it meets Alberta’s needs today and for generations to come.  

    Alberta’s government is making significant strides in its efforts to refocus the health care system. Assisted Living Alberta will be the fourth and final new provincial health agency to be established and operational. Recovery Alberta officially began operations on Sept. 1, 2024, with Primary Care Alberta ready to follow suit and become operational on Feb. 1, 2025. On the same date, Acute Care Alberta is set to become a legal entity. By creating four provincial health agencies to oversee the priority sectors of primary care, acute care, continuing care, and mental health and addiction, the province is putting patients first in every health care decision and giving front-line experts the support they need to properly care for Albertans.

    “The Alberta Continuing Care Association welcomes this transformational move by the Alberta government. By bringing social services, medical and non-medical supports, and continuing care together under one health agency, patients will be able to access wraparound supports for the care and services they need.”

    Feisal Keshavjee, chair, Alberta Continuing Care Association

    “Integrated health and social care enhances outcomes, aligns with the preferences of older adults, caregivers and practitioners, and underpins leading continuing care models. Healthy Aging Alberta and the United Way of Calgary congratulate the ministry on this exciting transition and look forward to supporting an integrated wraparound model of continuing care in Alberta.”

    Karen McDonald, provincial director, Healthy Aging Alberta 

    Transition committee members

    • Dr. Sayeh Zielke, committee chair – cardiologist and medical director of Chinook Cardiology
    • MLA Brandon Lunty, deputy chair – MLA for Leduc-Beaumont
    • Dr. David Stewart, member – physician, Family Medical Centre
    • David Weyant, member – president and CEO, Alberta Lawyers Indemnity Association
    • Robin James, member – chief administrative officer, Lethbridge Housing Authority
    • Feisal Keshavjee, member – board chair, Alberta Continuing Care Association
    • Karen McDonald, member – director, Healthy Aging Alberta (and executive director, Sage)
    • Andrea Hesse, member – executive director, Alberta Council for Disability Services
    • Joyce Wicks, member – former nurse and seniors advocate
    • Ruben Breaker, member – councillor, Siksika First Nation
    • Arlene Adamson, member – former CEO, Silvera for Seniors
    • Salimah Walji-Shivji, member – CEO, AgeCare
    • Irene Martin-Lindsay – member, executive director, Alberta Seniors and Community Housing Association

    Related news

    • Continuing care: Ministers LaGrange and Nixon (Oct 16, 2024)

    Related information

    • Refocusing health care in Alberta
    • Continuing Care Transformation
    • Online survey for feedback on Alberta’s continuing care system

    Multimedia

    • Watch the news conference

    MIL OSI Canada News –