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Category: AM-NC

  • MIL-OSI USA: FEMA Disaster Assistance Available for New Mexicans Impacted by the Oct. 19-20 Chaves County Flood

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: FEMA Disaster Assistance Available for New Mexicans Impacted by the Oct. 19-20 Chaves County Flood

    FEMA Disaster Assistance Available for New Mexicans Impacted by the Oct. 19-20 Chaves County Flood

    Chaves County homeowners and renters, who sustained damage from the Oct. 19-20, 2024, severe storm and flooding may be eligible for disaster assistance under FEMA’s Individuals and Households Program. FEMA disaster assistance may include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, to cover uninsured property losses, and other programs to help people recover from the effects of the disaster.FEMA’s assistance offers benefits that provide flexible funding directly to survivors when needed the most. In addition, FEMA’s new simplified Individual Assistance process and expanded eligibility allows New Mexicans access to a wider range of assistance including for serious needs.Serious Needs Assistance (SNA) provides funding for households to cover important items like water, food, first aid, breast-feeding supplies, infant formula, diapers, personal hygiene items, fuel for transportation or other emergency supplies for eligible households. To qualify for SNA, you must be displaced, need shelter or have other emergency costs due to the disaster on your application.Displacement Assistance (DA) provides people with up-front funds to assist with immediate housing options of their choice, to keep people housed. The money can be used to stay in a hotel, with family and friends or other options.Before receiving funds for Serious Needs Assistance (SNA) or Displacement Assistance (DA), an inspection is required to confirm eligibility.How to Apply to FEMANew Mexico residents can apply to FEMA for federal financial assistance three ways:Visit DisasterAssistance.gov,Download the FEMA App for mobile devices, or Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. Calls are accepted every day from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. MT. Help is available in most languages. Dial 711 or video relay services are available.To view an American Sign Language (ASL) video about how to apply visit Three Ways to Register for FEMA Disaster Assistance – YouTube.Additional Assistance and BenefitsStreamlined Application Requirements so you can apply for a low-interest, long-term disaster loan from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and for FEMA assistance at the same time.Support for Underinsured Claims to help with aspects of home repair not covered by insurance.Simplified Assistance for Entrepreneurs by providing self-employed survivors with initial financial support to replace disaster-damaged tools and equipment to help them land on their feet. Expanded Habitability Criteria to help survivors make their post-disaster homes safer and cleaner. Previously, for example, if a home had a leaky roof pre-disaster, that area of the home wouldn’t qualify.Make Accessibility Improvements to help survivors with disabilities improve their living conditions by making their homes even more accessible than they were pre-disaster.Streamlined Temporary Housing Assistance Applications by reducing documentation requirements for applicants who need to extend their stay in FEMA-supported temporary housing.Simplified Process for Appeals so survivors who wish to appeal FEMA’s decisions will no longer need to provide a signed, written appeal letter to accompany the supporting documentation.Computer Assistance for survivors who need to repair or replace disaster-damaged computers.Rental Assistance for Temporary Housing. If you suffered damage to your primary residence, FEMA may be able to provide rent for a temporary place to live while you are displaced. Rental assistance is intended to cover monthly rent, security deposit and cost of essential utilities such as electricity and water.FEMA’s Individuals and Household Program assistance is intended to help jumpstart your recovery. Here are some examples of basic needs:Home Repair Assistance may be provided to homeowners to repair the structural parts of your home. This includes windows, doors, floors, walls, ceilings, cabinets, heating, ventilation and air-conditioning system (HVAC), utilities (electrical, plumbing and gas systems) and entrance ways. FEMA may also reimburse for the actual cost to repair or replace your furnace, private well and septic system that was damaged or destroyed by the disaster.Even if you applied for federal assistance previously for other disasters in New Mexico, you could still apply to FEMA for assistance following the Oct. 19-20 severe storms and flooding in Chaves County.
    angela.ambroise
    Sat, 11/02/2024 – 17:29

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: FEMA Disaster Assistance Available for New Mexicans Impacted by the Oct. 19-20 Chavez County Flood

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: FEMA Disaster Assistance Available for New Mexicans Impacted by the Oct. 19-20 Chavez County Flood

    FEMA Disaster Assistance Available for New Mexicans Impacted by the Oct. 19-20 Chavez County Flood

    Chaves County homeowners and renters, who sustained damage from the Oct. 19-20, 2024, severe storm and flooding may be eligible for disaster assistance under FEMA’s Individuals and Households Program. FEMA disaster assistance may include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, to cover uninsured property losses, and other programs to help people recover from the effects of the disaster.FEMA’s assistance offers benefits that provide flexible funding directly to survivors when needed the most. In addition, FEMA’s new simplified Individual Assistance process and expanded eligibility allows New Mexicans access to a wider range of assistance including for serious needs.Serious Needs Assistance (SNA) provides funding for households to cover important items like water, food, first aid, breast-feeding supplies, infant formula, diapers, personal hygiene items, fuel for transportation or other emergency supplies for eligible households. To qualify for SNA, you must be displaced, need shelter or have other emergency costs due to the disaster on your application.Displacement Assistance (DA) provides people with up-front funds to assist with immediate housing options of their choice, to keep people housed. The money can be used to stay in a hotel, with family and friends or other options.Before receiving funds for Serious Needs Assistance (SNA) or Displacement Assistance (DA), an inspection is required to confirm eligibility.How to Apply to FEMANew Mexico residents can apply to FEMA for federal financial assistance three ways:Visit DisasterAssistance.gov,Download the FEMA App for mobile devices, or Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. Calls are accepted every day from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. MT. Help is available in most languages. Dial 711 or video relay services are available.To view an American Sign Language (ASL) video about how to apply visit Three Ways to Register for FEMA Disaster Assistance – YouTube.Additional Assistance and BenefitsStreamlined Application Requirements so you can apply for a low-interest, long-term disaster loan from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and for FEMA assistance at the same time.Support for Underinsured Claims to help with aspects of home repair not covered by insurance.Simplified Assistance for Entrepreneurs by providing self-employed survivors with initial financial support to replace disaster-damaged tools and equipment to help them land on their feet. Expanded Habitability Criteria to help survivors make their post-disaster homes safer and cleaner. Previously, for example, if a home had a leaky roof pre-disaster, that area of the home wouldn’t qualify.Make Accessibility Improvements to help survivors with disabilities improve their living conditions by making their homes even more accessible than they were pre-disaster.Streamlined Temporary Housing Assistance Applications by reducing documentation requirements for applicants who need to extend their stay in FEMA-supported temporary housing.Simplified Process for Appeals so survivors who wish to appeal FEMA’s decisions will no longer need to provide a signed, written appeal letter to accompany the supporting documentation.Computer Assistance for survivors who need to repair or replace disaster-damaged computers.Rental Assistance for Temporary Housing. If you suffered damage to your primary residence, FEMA may be able to provide rent for a temporary place to live while you are displaced. Rental assistance is intended to cover monthly rent, security deposit and cost of essential utilities such as electricity and water.FEMA’s Individuals and Household Program assistance is intended to help jumpstart your recovery. Here are some examples of basic needs:Home Repair Assistance may be provided to homeowners to repair the structural parts of your home. This includes windows, doors, floors, walls, ceilings, cabinets, heating, ventilation and air-conditioning system (HVAC), utilities (electrical, plumbing and gas systems) and entrance ways. FEMA may also reimburse for the actual cost to repair or replace your furnace, private well and septic system that was damaged or destroyed by the disaster.Even if you applied for federal assistance previously for other disasters in New Mexico, you could still apply to FEMA for assistance following the Oct. 19-20 severe storms and flooding in Chaves County.
    angela.ambroise
    Sat, 11/02/2024 – 17:29

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General James Helps Secure $49.1 Million from Drug Companies over Illegal Coordination to Inflate Prices

    Source: US State of New York

    NEW YORK – New York Attorney General Letitia James today joined a bipartisan multistate coalition of 50 attorneys general in announcing settlements with Heritage Pharmaceuticals (Heritage) and Apotex Inc. (Apotex) totaling $49.1 million for their roles in a massive, long-running scheme to artificially inflate and manipulate prices, reduce competition, and restrict trade for dozens of generic prescription drugs. The companies in the scheme, some of which increased prices by 1,000 percent, manufactured essential medications to treat diseases ranging from diabetes to cancer to ADHD. As part of the settlements, both companies have agreed to cooperate in ongoing multistate investigations against 30 corporate defendants and 25 individual executives. Both companies have also agreed to implement internal reforms to ensure fair competition and compliance with antitrust laws. 

    “Affordable generic drugs are a lifeline for millions of New Yorkers who rely on them every day to treat everything from diabetes to heart conditions,” said Attorney General James. “The companies involved in this scheme engaged in a massive conspiracy to illegally coordinate prices, driving up costs for consumers as much as 1,000 percent. These two settlements will help enable the victims of this scheme to get compensation, and will hopefully ensure this type of illegal price fixing will not happen again. I thank my fellow attorneys general for their hard work and collaboration to protect consumers from this unfair anticompetitive conduct.” 

    The settlements are the result of two lawsuits filed by the Office of the Attorney General and a coalition of attorneys general against some of the nation’s largest pharmaceutical companies. The first complaint, filed in 2016, included Heritage and 17 other corporate defendants, two individual defendants, and 15 generic drugs. Two former executives from Heritage Pharmaceuticals, Jeffrey Glazer and Jason Malek, have since entered into settlement agreements and are cooperating with the states’ investigations. The second complaint was filed in 2019 against Teva Pharmaceuticals and 19 of the nation’s largest generic drug manufacturers. The complaint names 16 individual senior executives as defendants. The third complaint was filed in 2020 against Sandoz and 18 other of the nation’s largest generic drug manufacturers, in addition to 10 individual defendants.

    The lawsuits allege these companies engaged in a broad, coordinated, and systematic conspiracy to fix prices, avoid competition, and rig bids for more than 100 different generic drugs. The companies maintained an interconnected web of industry executives where these competitors met with each other during industry dinners, “girls’ nights out,” lunches, cocktail parties, and golf outings, and communicated via frequent telephone calls, emails, and text messages that sowed the seeds for their illegal agreements. Defendants used terms like “fair share,” “playing nice in the sandbox,” and “responsible competitor” to describe how they unlawfully discouraged competition, raised prices, and enforced an ingrained culture of collusion. 

    The drugs included in the scheme span all types, including tablets, capsules, creams, and ointments; and classes, including antibiotics, anti-depressants, contraceptives, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. They treat a range of diseases and conditions from basic infections to diabetes, cancer, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, HIV, ADHD, and more. In some instances, the coordinated price increases were over 1,000 percent. Digoxin, an essential heart medication manufactured by Heritage, tripled in price, causing patients to pay hundreds of dollars more for the drug. 

    The cases stem from an investigation built on evidence from several cooperating witnesses at the core of the conspiracy, a massive database of over 20 million documents, and a phone records database containing millions of call detail records and contact information for over 600 sales and pricing individuals in the generics industry. 

    A motion for preliminary approval of the $10 million settlement with Heritage was filed yesterday in the United States District Court for the District of Connecticut in Hartford. A settlement with Apotex for $39.1 million is contingent upon obtaining signatures from all necessary states and territories and will be finalized and filed in the U.S. District Court.  

    Consumers who purchased a generic prescription drug manufactured by either Heritage or Apotex between 2010 and 2018 may be eligible for compensation. To determine your eligibility, call 1-866-290-0182, email info@AGGenericDrugs.com or visit www.AGGenericDrugs.com.

    Joining Attorney General James in announcing the settlements are the attorneys general of Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming, the District of Columbia, Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. 

    These settlements are the latest example of Attorney General James taking action to stop companies from engaging in anticompetitive conduct and harming New Yorkers. In May, Attorney General James joined 40 other states and the Department of Justice in suing Live Nation and Ticketmaster for monopolizing the live music industry. In October 2023, Attorney General James secured $4.5 million from one of the nation’s largest title insurance companies for using illegal no-poach agreements with competitors to keep employees from switching jobs. Attorney General James has now ended the use of no-poach agreements by the five largest commercial underwriters in the United States, including First American, Fidelity, Old Republic, Stewart, and Amtrust. In 2022, Attorney General James sued a ski resort company in Syracuse for buying its main competitor and shutting it down in order to monopolize the local market. 

    New York’s investigation has been led by Assistant Attorneys General Bob Hubbard and Saami Zain and Legal Assistant Arlene Leventhal of the Antitrust Bureau, under the supervision of Deputy Bureau Chief Amy McFarlane and Bureau Chief Elinor Hoffmann of the Antitrust Bureau. The Antitrust Bureau is part of the Division for Economic Justice, overseen by Chief Deputy Attorney General Christopher D’Angelo and First Deputy Attorney General Jennifer Levy.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Gyeonggi officials tour Camp Casey and Camp Hovey

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    CAMP CASEY, Republic of Korea  –  

    Oh, Who Seok, the vice governor of Gyeonggi-do, six vice mayors from different Gyeonggi province cities, and key staff members toured Camp Casey and Camp Hovey during the 4th Northern Gyeonggi Vice Governor and Vice Mayor’s Conference Oct. 31.

    Gyeonggi-do hosts the conference in a different city every other month, selecting Dongducheon city for the month of October. The event is meant to introduce vice mayors to various things of importance they may encounter during their tenure. Dongducheon city reached out to U.S. Army Garrison Yongsan-Casey and requested a tour of the installation to promote Korean-American friendship and more effectively explain the military’s presence in the area.

    The group consisted of Oh, Who Seok, Gyeonggi-do vice governor; Kim, Ken Ki, Paju vice mayor; Park, Seong Nam, Uijeongbu vice mayor; Kim, Jeong Min, Yangju vice mayor; Kim Jong Hun, Pocheon vice mayor; Lim, Kyoung Suk, Dongducheon city vice mayor, key staff, and community relations representatives.

    Dr. Irving Taylor, Yongsan-Casey deputy to the garrison commander, welcomed the officials to the installation and took them on a walking tour of some of the facilities.

    “We have a great relationship with our community partners,” said Taylor. “Our Soldiers and civilians are frequently invited to wonderful off-base activities that really help improve cross-cultural understanding and create long-lasting memories. I hope all of today’s guests enjoyed the trip and gained a better understanding of life on a military installation. This place is more than just a piece of land, it’s home to an entire community of diverse and hard-working professionals.”

    During the driving portion of the tour, Kim, Song Ae, Yongsan-Casey community relations officer, described the history of the installation, which goes all the way back to the Korean War. Along the route, the vice mayors asked a variety of engaging questions aimed at gaining a better understanding of the Soldiers’ lives and how the military presence here fits into the larger kaleidoscope.

    The capstone of the tour featured a M270A1 Multiple Launch Rocket System, M1068 FDC track vehicle, and Humvee display. U.S. Army Soldiers assigned to 6-37 Field Artillery Regiment, 210th Field Artillery Brigade, 2nd Infantry Division, introduced the vehicles to the vice mayors while having several engaging conversations about their personal experiences and impressions of life in Korea.

    Many of the officials also served in the military in years past, attesting to the strength and endurance of the ROK-U.S. alliance and creating a shared sense of camaraderie among the group. The South Korean and American patriots, stood side-by-side and rendered a salute during the playing of Retreat, which signaled the end of the duty day, temporarily pausing the friendly conversations.

    The vice governor of Gyeonggi province expressed his gratitude to U.S. Army Garrison Yongsan-Casey and the Soldiers of 210th Field Artillery Brigade for their support of the initiative.

    “It was a meaningful experience to observe firsthand the training and daily lives of U.S. Soldiers dedicated to the peace of the Korean Peninsula,” said Oh. “Gyeonggi Province will continue to work to strengthen the U.S.-Korea alliance and to promote stability in border regions.”

    Oh volunteered to don the Improved Outer Tactical Vest just before the conclusion of the tour. The entire group beamed with joy as they watched Oh put on the uniform and talk about the experience.

    U.S. Army Yongsan-Casey organizes over 100 events a year to help promote cross-cultural understanding and awareness. U.S. Army Soldiers, civilians and citizens in the area frequently articulate their appreciation for such events and the positive impacts they have on quality of life while abroad.

    MIL Security OSI –

    January 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: North Preston — Missing youth: Help the RCMP find Santez Burns

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    RCMP Halifax Regional Detachment is asking for the public’s assistance in locating 15-year-old Santez Burns. He was last seen yesterday at approximately 11 a.m. in North Preston.

    Burns is described as five-foot-four, 120-130 lbs. He has dark brown hair and brown eyes. He was last seen wearing a black shirt, black pants, and a black hat.

    When someone goes missing, it has deep and far-reaching impacts for the person and those who know them. We ask that people spread the word respectfully.

    Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Santez Burns is asked to call police at 902-490-5020. To remain anonymous, call Nova Scotia Crime Stoppers, toll-free, at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), submit a secure web tip at www.crimestoppers.ns.ca, or use the P3 Tips app.

    MIL Security OSI –

    January 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Serious crash, Broadlands

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Emergency services are in attendance at a serious crash in Broadlands, Rotorua which was reported shortly before 7:30am.

    It’s believed there may be serious injury.

    Diversions are currently in place off Broadlands Road at Ohaaki Road and Vaile Road, and are expected to remain in place for some time.

    ENDS

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    January 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Gaston County

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Gaston County

    Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Gaston County

    RALEIGH, N.C. –  A Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) will open Sunday, November 3, in Dallas (Gaston County) to assist North Carolina survivors who experienced loss from Tropical Storm Helene.  The Gaston County DRC is located at:  Dallas Civic Center206 S. Oakland St.Dallas, NC 28034Open: 8 a.m. – 7 p.m., Sunday through SaturdayA DRC is a one-stop shop where survivors can meet face-to-face with FEMA representatives, apply for FEMA assistance, receive referrals to local assistance in their area, apply with the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) for low-interest disaster loans and much more.  FEMA financial assistance may include money for basic home repairs, personal property losses or other uninsured, disaster-related needs, such as childcare, transportation, medical needs, funeral or dental expenses. To find additional DRC locations, go to fema.gov/drc or text “DRC” and a zip code to 43362. Additional recovery centers will open soon. All centers are accessible to people with disabilities or access and functional needs and are equipped with assistive technology.   Homeowners and renters in 39 North Carolina counties and tribal members of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians can visit any open center, including locations in other states. No appointment is needed.  It is not necessary to go to a center to apply for FEMA assistance. The fastest way to apply is online at DisasterAssistance.gov or via the FEMA App. You may also call 800-621-3362. If you use a relay service, such as video relay, captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service. 
    barbara.murien…
    Sat, 11/02/2024 – 19:02

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Dan Goldman Pushes the Department of Justice to Ensure Election Workers are Safe Ahead of November Elections

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10)

    More Than One-Third of Election Workers Have Experienced Threats, Harassment, Abuse

    Read the Letter Here

    Washington, DC – Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10) joined Congresswoman Nikema Williams (GA-05) and 59 of his Democratic colleagues in sending a letter to U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland and Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco urging the Department of Justice (DOJ) to take additional steps to protect election officials, workers, and volunteers in their workers as they carry out their duties during the 2024 election.

    “According to recent surveys, more than one in three election officials have experienced threats, harassment, or abuse, and more than half who received threats were threatened in person. Additional research has tied this pervasive hostility to concerning levels of turnover among election workers, leading to increased strain on the expertise of those responsible for facilitating our elections,” the Members wrote.

    In 2021, the Department of Justice acknowledged that its response to threats on election officials following the 2020 election was ‘inadequate’. While the Department’s Elections Threats Task Force demonstrates a strong commitment to election workers well-being, its plans to combat harassment of election workers on and after election day, remain unclear.

    “With our concerns about threats increasing on and around Election Day itself, we request more information about the Department and the Election Threats Task Force’s rapid response plans to ensure election workers are able to safely, effectively, and securely carry out the 2024 election,” the Members concluded.

    Read the letter here or below:

    Dear Attorney General Garland and Deputy Attorney General Monaco:

    We write to express our support of the Department of Justice’s Elections Threats Task Force amidst the severe and concerning attacks levied against election workers around the United States, and to call on the Department to take additional steps to protect election officials, workers, and volunteers: the people responsible for ensuring the success of our democracy.

    According to recent surveys, more than one in three election officials have experienced threats, harassment, or abuse, and more than half who received threats were threatened in person. Additional research has tied this pervasive hostility to concerning levels of turnover among election workers, leading to increased strain on the expertise of those responsible for facilitating our elections. This turnover is more acute in the most competitive states, where election officials have been particularly targeted for harassment, and where the perception of effective and efficient election administration is particularly important given the scrutiny their results will likely receive.

    We are concerned that the attacks on election workers will continue and increase as we approach the 2024 elections, and we are especially concerned about threats, harassment, and violence in the immediate run-up to Election Day, on Election Day, and throughout the counting, reporting, and certification process. In 2021, the Department acknowledged that their response to threats on election officials post-2020 election was “inadequate,” and we are grateful for the focus the Department has placed on ensuring a stronger response this election cycle.

    With our concerns about threats increasing on and around Election Day itself, we request more information about the Department and the Election Threats Task Force’s rapid response plans to ensure election workers are able to safely, effectively, and securely carry out the 2024 election. We kindly request answers to the following questions:

    1. What is the Department’s plan to ensure threats against election workers are addressed promptly?

    2. How will the Department coordinate with federal and local law enforcement to determine the validity of a threat and ensure the safety of election workers?

    1. What outreach has already occurred to law enforcement to ensure awareness of the proper forums to report threats against election workers and how to receive support from the Department?

    2. What outreach has already occurred to local elections officials to ensure they have the resources and capabilities needed to identify and report serious threats?

    3. How will the Department coordinate with local governments and local election administrators to ensure real-time information sharing regarding the safety of election workers?

    1. What outreach has already occurred to local governments and election administrators to ensure awareness of the proper forums to report threats against election workers and how to receive support from the Department?

    2. What precautions are being taken to ensure any public-facing updates do not unnecessarily expose local officials’ private information?

    3. Does the Department have any dedicated personnel devoted entirely to outreach to election officials in critical periods like this? If not, what personnel is responsible for this outreach?

    4. What resources, if any, has the Department developed, either on its own or in concert with partners such as CISA or the EAC, to provide security information to election workers?

    1. If so, what outreach has been done to increase awareness of these resources?

    2. If not, are there plans for developing new resources or updating older ones? Are there plans to engage stakeholders in the development of those resources?

    5. What financial authorities, if any, has the Department utilized to build local capacity to protect election workers and respond to threats to election workers? 

    1. If financial authorities have been used, how?

    6. What additional Congressional support would aid the Department in protecting election workers?

    Thank you and the Department for your commitment to keeping the backbone of our democracy safe, and taking steps to ensure that officials are able to carry out free, fair, efficient, safe, and secure elections that enable all of our constituents to have their voices heard. We look forward to continuing to partner with you in defense of our democracy.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Dan Goldman Requests Information on Bank of America Decision to Reverse Ban on Financing Assault-Weapons Manufacturers

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10)

    Following Legislation Passed in Texas and Florida, Bank of America Backtracked Implementation of Landmark Financing Ban

    Read the Letter Here

    Washington, DC – Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10) joined Congressman Sean Casten (IL-06) and 50 of his Democratic colleagues in sending a letter to Bank of America CEO and Chair of the Board Brian Moynihan requesting information regarding Bank of America’s decision to reverse their ban on financing assault-style gun manufacturers, who design weapons frequently used by perpetrators of mass shootings.

    “We write with disappointment regarding the recent news that Bank of America has reversed its ban on financing assault-style gun manufacturers in response to pressure from Republican-led states, such as Florida and Texas. When the second-largest bank in the country backtracks on gun violence prevention, it sends a message to the entire industry: it’s permissible for other financial institutions to put short-term politics over the protection of American lives,” the Members wrote.

    In 2018, following the Marjorie Stoneman Douglas High School mass shooting, Bank of America announced it would no longer finance military-style firearms for civilian use. Bank of America described the financing of these gunmakers as “contrary to our values, operating principles and Code of Conduct.”

    However, in 2021, Texas passed a law restricting companies that discriminate against firearms entities from doing business with the state. In January 2024, Florida passed an anti-ESG law which required banks that accept state or local funds to verify they don’t “politically discriminate.”

    In response, Bank of America weakened its policy, stating that financing military-style firearms would be subject to an “enhanced due-diligence process,” directly contradicting their 2018 proposal. The members contend that this policy change unnecessarily puts lives at risk.

    “The strong positions by Bank of America in 2018 likely saved lives. Your retreat in recent years strikes us as situational ethics. Perhaps you fear the political risk of alienating certain politicians. We would suggest that pales in comparison to the fear felt by a classroom full of kids looking down the barrel of an assault rifle. The least you could do is show a fraction of the courage that too many children are asked to show in a country awash in these weapons of war,” the Members continued.

    The members concluded asking the following questions regarding Bank of America’s policy change:

    1. “Since 2018, what steps has Bank of America taken to reverse its prior policies and decisions that were intended to reduce gun violence?

    2. Please explain why Bank of America now deems it appropriate to finance assault-style gun manufacturers.

    3. Please detail how Bank of America implemented the enhanced due diligence standard and review process for clients and transactions involving the manufacture of military-style firearms for civilian use, including:

      1. What “specialized industry knowledge” did the internal subject matter experts (SMEs) possess that contributed to the development of this policy?

        1. What are their professional backgrounds?

      2. Please provide specifics about the “clear process” for review with senior executive checkpoints, escalation routines, and risk management considerations, including how Bank of America will assess the reputational and litigation risk associated with specific, potential clients.

      3. What factors would cause Bank of America to decide to provide financing or underwriting to a manufacturer of military-style firearms for civilian use?

    4. Since this enhanced due diligence process was put in place, what, if any, financing or underwriting has Bank of America provided to firearm manufacturers, including those specified below?

      1. Sturm Ruger & Company (RGR)

      2. Smith and Wesson (SWBI)

      3. Axon (AXON:US)

      4. Sportsman’s Warehouse Holdings (SPWH)

      5. Big Five Sporting Goods Corporation (BGFV)”

    Read the letter here or below:

    Dear Mr. Moynihan,

    We write with disappointment regarding the recent news that Bank of America has reversed its ban on financing assault-style gun manufacturers in response to pressure from Republican-led states, such as Florida and Texas. When the second-largest bank in the country backtracks on gun violence prevention, it sends a message to the entire industry: it’s permissible for other financial institutions to put short-term politics over the protection of American lives.

    In 2018, following the Marjorie Stoneman Douglas High School mass shooting, Bank of America announced that it would no longer finance military-style firearms for civilian use. In an interview that April, Vice Chair Anne Finucane stated that Bank of America wants to contribute in “any way we can” to reduce mass shootings. Specifically, Ms. Finucane said: “It’s our intention not to finance these military-style firearms forcivilian use” on a “go forward basis.” At Bank of America’s annual shareholder meeting that same month, one conservative activist said the bank was “willfully giving up money.” You responded to shareholders that the policy change was prompted in part because more than 150 Bank of America employees “directly lost a relative in the shootings in the last couple [of] years.”

    Remington, Vista Outdoor, and Sturm, Ruger & Co. were three of your clients affected by this policy change in 2018. Remington made the Bushmaster assault weapon that was used in the 2012 mass shooting that killed 26 children and educators at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut. Remington had been a client of Bank of America since at least 2012 until the bank cut ties—but only after contributing $43 million to a lending package that helped Remington exit bankruptcy in 2018. Vista Outdoor sold rifles and shotguns, including AR-15-style weapons, until 2019, when Bank of America helped finance Vista’s acquisition of another sporting goods company in 2016. Lastly, Sturm Ruger makes the AR-556 pistol, which resembles an AR-15-style rifle but has been designed to circumvent existing gun laws. This weapon was used in the 2021 mass shooting that killed ten people at a King Soopers supermarket store in Boulder, Colorado. In 2013, Bank of America extended a $25 million line of credit to Sturm Ruger. Between 2012 and 2018, Bank of America issued $273.6 million in bonds and loans to these firearm companies. To be clear, none of these guns are designed for hunting or for self-defense. They are designed to kill large numbers of people as quickly as possible.

    In 2019, Bank of America described the financing of these gunmakers as “contrary to our values, operating principles and Code of Conduct” in its Environmental and Social Risk Policy Framework. In 2022, Bank of America reiterated that it “will not currently finance the manufacture of military-style firearms for non-law enforcement, non-military use.” Then in November 2023, Bank of America assured members of Congress that its “lines of business continue to follow this policy.”

    However, in December 2023, Bank of America weakened its firearms lending policy in its updated policy framework, stating that financing military-style firearms would be subject to an “enhanced due diligence process” and review by the Senior-level Risk Committee. This directly contradicts Vice Chair Finucane’s 2018 statement that “going forward we will not finance the manufacture of these firearms.”

    Recent reports suggest that this policy change was prompted by anti-ESG laws in states like Florida and Texas. In 2021, Texas passed a law restricting companies that “discriminate” against firearms entities from doing business with the state. Specifically, it requires that government contracts include a written verification that the company does not and will not “have a practice, policy, guidance, or directive that discriminates against a firearm entity or firearm trade association.”18 In October 2023, shortly before Bank of America changed its policy, the Texas Attorney General issued an advisory urging government entities to closely review these written verifications and consider other “red flags,” citing Bank of America’s approach towards certain firearm entities. More recently, in January 2024, Florida announced that it will begin enforcing violations of an anti- ESG law passed last year, which requires banks that accept state or local funds to verify that they don’t “politically discriminate.” In particular, these requirements prohibit banks from denying services on the basis of enumerated factors, including a company’s “engagement in the lawful manufacture, distribution, sale, purchase, or use of firearms or ammunition.” In May 2024, Florida enacted a law, effective July 1, 2024, that provides for a customer complaint process for alleged violations of these requirements and expands the scope to include non-Florida chartered banks.

    The strong positions by Bank of America in 2018 likely saved lives. Your retreat in recent years strikes us as situational ethics. Perhaps you fear the political risk of alienating certain politicians. We would suggest that pales in comparison to the fear felt by a classroom full of kids looking down the barrel of an assault rifle. The least you could do is show a fraction of the courage that too many children are asked to show in a country awash in these weapons of war.

    To that end, we seek clarification on this policy change and ask that you answer the following questions by August 8, 2024:

    1. Since 2018, what steps has Bank of America taken to reverse its prior policies and decisions that were intended to reduce gun violence?

    2. Please explain why Bank of America now deems it appropriate to finance assault-style gun manufacturers.

    3. Please detail how Bank of America implemented the enhanced due diligence standard and review process for clients and transactions involving the manufacture of military-style firearms for civilian use, including:

      1. What “specialized industry knowledge” did the internal subject matter experts (SMEs) possess that contributed to the development of this policy?

        1. What are their professional backgrounds?

      2. Please provide specifics about the “clear process” for review with senior executive checkpoints, escalation routines, and risk management considerations, including how Bank of America will assess the reputational and litigation risk associated with specific, potential clients.

      3. What factors would cause Bank of America to decide to provide financing or underwriting to a manufacturer of military-style firearms for civilian use?

    4. Since this enhanced due diligence process was put in place, what, if any, financing or underwriting has Bank of America provided to firearm manufacturers, including those specified below?

      1. Sturm Ruger & Company (RGR)

      2. Smith and Wesson (SWBI)

      3. Axon (AXON:US)

      4. Sportsman’s Warehouse Holdings (SPWH)

      5. Big Five Sporting Goods Corporation (BGFV)”

    We look forward to your prompt response either in writing or via a briefing and the opportunity to continue to work together to stem the tragedies caused by gun violence and make our communities safer. Thank you foryour attention to this matter.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC Nov 2, 2024 1930 UTC Day 3 Severe Thunderstorm Outlook

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

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    Nov 2, 2024 1930 UTC Day 3 Severe Thunderstorm Outlook

    Updated: Sat Nov 2 19:30:45 UTC 2024 (Print Version |   |  )

    Probabilistic to Categorical Outlook Conversion Table

     Forecast Discussion

    SPC AC 021930

    Day 3 Convective Outlook
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    0230 PM CDT Sat Nov 02 2024

    Valid 041200Z – 051200Z

    …THERE IS A SLIGHT RISK OF SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS PARTS OF THE
    SOUTHERN PLAINS INTO THE OZARKS…

    …SUMMARY…
    Scattered severe thunderstorms are possible on Monday into Monday
    night from parts of north and east Texas to Missouri. Tornadoes and
    damaging winds should be the main hazards.

    …Synopsis…
    The large upper trough in the Southwest will continue its eastward
    progression into the southern Plains. With time, the trough will
    lift northeast and lose amplitude. A strong mid-level jet will eject
    into the southern Plains and mid-Missouri Valley during the late
    morning and afternoon. A surface low initially in western Oklahoma
    will begin to accelerate northeastward, reaching the Upper Midwest
    by Tuesday Morning. The focus for severe storms will along the
    dryline in Oklahoma/Texas, which will eventually be overtaken by a
    cold front, and the cold front extending from Kansas into the
    Midwest.

    …Oklahoma/Texas…
    The current expectation is for strongly forced line of convection to
    be ongoing in western Oklahoma into western North Texas. Additional
    convection is also possible farther east into parts of the Ozarks
    within a broad area of warm advection. How the western convection
    evolves with time will be modulated by the eastern precipitation and
    eventual degree of surface-based destabilization. Surface heating
    will be key as mid-level lapse rates are relatively poor. Even
    without significant surface heating, a very moist airmass should
    support the continuation of the convective line into central/eastern
    Oklahoma. Guidance is consistent in showing a linear mode and shear
    vectors largely parallel to the boundary support this outcome. Very
    strong low-level and deep-layer shear will promote a risk for severe
    winds and QLCS tornadoes. Should greater surface heating occur,
    portions of eastern Oklahoma appear to be favorably positioned for a
    greater severe threat given the potential combination of
    destabilization and large-scale ascent. Portions of East Texas
    should observe greater surface heating. Deep-layer shear will be
    weaker, however. Severe wind gusts and line-embedded circulations
    will also be possible in these areas.

    …Ozarks…
    Initial morning convection could pose a marginal severe threat.
    Weaker forcing and limited buoyancy should keep any threat isolated.
    The greater threat for severe weather will come with the line of
    convection along the cold front moving in from the west during the
    evening into parts of the overnight. Buoyancy will still be limited
    and decrease with eastward extent, but strong low-level and
    deep-layer wind fields will continue to support some risk for
    damaging winds and perhaps QLCS tornadoes.

    ..Wendt.. 11/02/2024

    CLICK TO GET WUUS03 PTSDY3 PRODUCT

    NOTE: THE NEXT DAY 3 OUTLOOK IS SCHEDULED BY 0830Z

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    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC Nov 2, 2024 1730 UTC Day 2 Convective Outlook

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

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    Nov 2, 2024 1730 UTC Day 2 Convective Outlook

    Updated: Sat Nov 2 17:30:59 UTC 2024 (Print Version |   |  )

    Probabilistic to Categorical Outlook Conversion Table

     Forecast Discussion

    SPC AC 021730

    Day 2 Convective Outlook
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    1230 PM CDT Sat Nov 02 2024

    Valid 031200Z – 041200Z

    …THERE IS A SLIGHT RISK OF SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS PARTS OF OKLAHOMA
    INTO NORTH TEXAS AND THE ROLLING PLAINS…

    …SUMMARY…
    Scattered severe storms are possible in multiple rounds from midday
    Sunday through Sunday night. The most likely area affected includes
    parts of Oklahoma into north and west-central Texas. Tornadoes,
    damaging winds, and large hail may occur.

    …Synopsis…
    A large upper-level trough will continue to push east and a surface
    cyclone will deepen in the central High Plains. Continued moisture
    advection northward will support the potential for severe storms,
    primarily within Oklahoma and Texas.

    …Oklahoma into North Texas…
    Models continue to be consistent in an ongoing line of convection
    occurring early Sunday morning from eastern Oklahoma into North
    Texas. This activity complicates the forecast for the
    afternoon/evening. However, a similarly consistent signal for
    additional convection to move into these areas during the afternoon
    from the Texas Rolling Plains. This scenario is plausible given the
    persistence of low-level southerly flow as the upper-level trough
    continues to move eastward and a surface low deepens in the central
    High Plains. Buoyancy, mid-level lapse rates, and
    low-level/deep-layer shear will favor organized storms capable of
    all severe hazards. Guidance exhibits a strong signal for a linear
    convective mode where severe winds and embedded QLCS circulations
    would be the expected primary threats. Hail would be a greater
    concern for any more discrete storms. The degree of tornado threat
    is at least conditionally higher in south-central/southeast Oklahoma
    where low-level hodographs will be larger, particularly late
    afternoon into the evening. The overall uncertain character/location
    of the effective boundary from earlier convection as well as whether
    discrete storms can form along it keep confidence in a greater
    threat low.

    …Texas Rolling Plains/Permian Basin…
    Low-level southeasterly winds will continue to advect moisture into
    the surface trough/dryline. Forcing from the upper-level trough will
    overspread this region by mid/late morning. Guidance suggests a
    quick transition to a linear mode, but effective shear of 40-50 kts
    across the boundary and long straight hodographs will favor some
    threat for large hail with initial supercells. Severe winds will
    likely be the primary threat as convection moves northeast. Some
    QLCS tornado threat is possible as low-level shear increases to the
    east.

    …Kansas/Nebraska…
    Within the surface low/dryline, isolated discrete storm development
    appears possible in western Kansas. Uncertainty remains high given
    potential influence from convection to the south. Further, stronger
    forcing does not arrive until the evening. Should storms develop,
    strong effective shear (50-55 kts) and steep mid-level lapse rates
    will favor supercells capable of severe winds and large hail. At
    least a narrow window for a tornado risk will be present during late
    evening.

    …East Texas into far western Louisiana…
    Within a warm advection regime, a few storms may develop in East
    Texas and adjacent Louisiana. Buoyancy will be maximized in East
    Texas and diminish with eastward extent. Deep-layer southwesterly
    flow will be sufficient for marginal supercell structures. Damaging
    winds and isolated large hail would be possible. Given the presence
    of an effective warm front/moisture boundary, low-level shear will
    also be adequate for the stronger storms to potentially produce a
    brief tornado.

    ..Wendt.. 11/02/2024

    CLICK TO GET WUUS02 PTSDY2 PRODUCT

    NOTE: THE NEXT DAY 2 OUTLOOK IS SCHEDULED BY 0700Z

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    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC Nov 2, 2024 2000 UTC Day 1 Convective Outlook

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

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    Nov 2, 2024 2000 UTC Day 1 Convective Outlook

    Updated: Sat Nov 2 19:44:30 UTC 2024 (Print Version |   |  )

    Probabilistic to Categorical Outlook Conversion Table

     Forecast Discussion

    SPC AC 021944

    Day 1 Convective Outlook
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    0244 PM CDT Sat Nov 02 2024

    Valid 022000Z – 031200Z

    …THERE IS A SLIGHT RISK OF SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS PERMIAN BASIN AND
    SOUTH PLAINS INTO PORTIONS OF OKLAHOMA…

    …SUMMARY…
    Scattered strong to severe storms will be possible late this
    afternoon and tonight, primarily from the Permian Basin and South
    Plains into Oklahoma.

    …20z Update…
    Only slight adjustments were made to the Marginal Risk across far
    eastern New Mexico to account for recent trends in radar. Trends
    continue to suggest that storms across western Texas into eastern
    New Mexico before growing upscale and moving into northwestern Texas
    and eventually Oklahoma. Some question remains how much air mass
    recovery can happen north of the Red River across southwest Oklahoma
    behind the current line of storms. Visible satellite shows a few
    breaks in the clouds across southwestern Oklahoma into northwestern
    Texas behind the ongoing complex/outflow. For now, confidence
    remains too low to make an adjustments to severe probabilities given
    the signal in CAM guidance for an eastward propagating MCS this
    evening. See previous discussion below for more information.

    ..Thornton/Smith.. 11/02/2024

    .PREV DISCUSSION… /ISSUED 1129 AM CDT Sat Nov 02 2024/

    …Synopsis…
    Water-vapor imagery late this morning shows an upper trough over
    CA/NV moving east, and this feature will become centered over the
    Four Corners late tonight into early Sunday morning. A lead
    mid-level vorticity maximum over eastern AZ will move into eastern
    NM by late this evening as more appreciable mid-level height falls
    overspread the southern High Plains tonight. A diffuse warm front
    in northwest TX arches northeastward through central OK to the east
    of morning showers/thunderstorms.

    …Southern High Plains to portions of OK…
    An ongoing band of weak to occasional and localized strong
    thunderstorms extends from south-central KS southwestward through
    western OK and into the TX South Plains, where convective outflow
    slowly moves south into northern parts of the Permian Basin.
    Related convective effects and rainfall from the Low Rolling Plains
    northeast into central OK renders a mesoscale area of low confidence
    in storm evolution later today/tonight and the associated severe
    threat. Models indicate appreciably strong low-level theta-e
    advection will largely offset and hinder eastward progress of
    convective outflow over southwest/central OK with gradual
    destabilization of this airmass expected southeast of the
    convection. Model CAM guidance does seem to support a rejuvenation
    of storms —beginning late this afternoon into the evening over
    parts of west and northwest TX— and later moving into OK later
    this evening into the overnight in the form of a squall line. Have
    opted to not substantially change the prior outlook over OK despite
    some concern about observational trends (e.g., considerable cloud
    cover, destabilization).

    Farther southwest, storm outflow will likely stall across northern
    parts of the Permian Basin. Along and south of this outflow, moist
    southeasterly flow will maintain a fetch of lower 60s deg F
    dewpoints across the Trans-Pecos and Permian Basin, contributing to
    moderate destabilization by mid-late afternoon (around 2000 J/kg
    MLCAPE). Elongated hodographs atop some hodograph curvature in the
    lowest 1-2 km will support supercell development with the stronger
    storms as early as 21 UTC and into the evening. Upscale growth into
    a couple of linear clusters is expected with time this evening with
    the severe risk transitioning from all hazards to mainly a wind and
    localized hail risk as this activity moves from west TX into
    northwest TX.

    CLICK TO GET WUUS01 PTSDY1 PRODUCT

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    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC Nov 2, 2024 1630 UTC Day 1 Convective Outlook

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

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    Nov 2, 2024 1630 UTC Day 1 Convective Outlook

    Updated: Sat Nov 2 16:29:17 UTC 2024 (Print Version |   |  )

    Probabilistic to Categorical Outlook Conversion Table

     Forecast Discussion

    SPC AC 021629

    Day 1 Convective Outlook
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    1129 AM CDT Sat Nov 02 2024

    Valid 021630Z – 031200Z

    …THERE IS A SLIGHT RISK OF SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS FROM THE PERMIAN
    BASIN AND SOUTH PLAINS INTO PORTIONS OF OKLAHOMA…

    …SUMMARY…
    Scattered strong to severe storms will be possible late this
    afternoon and tonight, primarily from the Permian Basin and South
    Plains into Oklahoma.

    …Synopsis…
    Water-vapor imagery late this morning shows an upper trough over
    CA/NV moving east, and this feature will become centered over the
    Four Corners late tonight into early Sunday morning. A lead
    mid-level vorticity maximum over eastern AZ will move into eastern
    NM by late this evening as more appreciable mid-level height falls
    overspread the southern High Plains tonight. A diffuse warm front
    in northwest TX arches northeastward through central OK to the east
    of morning showers/thunderstorms.

    …Southern High Plains to portions of OK…
    An ongoing band of weak to occasional and localized strong
    thunderstorms extends from south-central KS southwestward through
    western OK and into the TX South Plains, where convective outflow
    slowly moves south into northern parts of the Permian Basin.
    Related convective effects and rainfall from the Low Rolling Plains
    northeast into central OK renders a mesoscale area of low confidence
    in storm evolution later today/tonight and the associated severe
    threat. Models indicate appreciably strong low-level theta-e
    advection will largely offset and hinder eastward progress of
    convective outflow over southwest/central OK with gradual
    destabilization of this airmass expected southeast of the
    convection. Model CAM guidance does seem to support a rejuvenation
    of storms —beginning late this afternoon into the evening over
    parts of west and northwest TX— and later moving into OK later
    this evening into the overnight in the form of a squall line. Have
    opted to not substantially change the prior outlook over OK despite
    some concern about observational trends (e.g., considerable cloud
    cover, destabilization).

    Farther southwest, storm outflow will likely stall across northern
    parts of the Permian Basin. Along and south of this outflow, moist
    southeasterly flow will maintain a fetch of lower 60s deg F
    dewpoints across the Trans-Pecos and Permian Basin, contributing to
    moderate destabilization by mid-late afternoon (around 2000 J/kg
    MLCAPE). Elongated hodographs atop some hodograph curvature in the
    lowest 1-2 km will support supercell development with the stronger
    storms as early as 21 UTC and into the evening. Upscale growth into
    a couple of linear clusters is expected with time this evening with
    the severe risk transitioning from all hazards to mainly a wind and
    localized hail risk as this activity moves from west TX into
    northwest TX.

    ..Smith/Moore.. 11/02/2024

    CLICK TO GET WUUS01 PTSDY1 PRODUCT

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    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC MD 2182

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    Mesoscale Discussion 2182
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    0124 PM CDT Sat Nov 02 2024

    Areas affected…portions of west Texas into extreme southeastern
    New Mexico

    Concerning…Severe potential…Watch possible

    Valid 021824Z – 022000Z

    Probability of Watch Issuance…60 percent

    SUMMARY…The severe threat should gradually increase through the
    afternoon, with all severe hazards possible. A WW issuance may be
    needed in the next couple of hours pending robust storm
    intensification.

    DISCUSSION…Convection is gradually deepening across the Permian
    Basin amid a destabilizing boundary layer, with NLDN data depicting
    lightning already occurring with the deeper updrafts. 17Z
    mesoanalysis shows some remaining MLCINH in place. However, surface
    temperatures are approaching 80 F in spots, amid 60 F dewpoints,
    yielding 1500+ J/kg MLCAPE. Vertical wind profiles gradually veer
    from southeasterly at the surface, to southwesterly at 500 mb, with
    considerable strengthening with height noted in forecast soundings.
    Hodographs are relatively straight and elongated in the near-term,
    supporting 25-35 kts of effective bulk shear. However, strengthening
    low-level flow later this afternoon and evening will contribute to
    50+ kts of effective bulk shear and larger, curved low-level
    hodographs.

    As such, multicells and transient supercells should develop over the
    next couple of hours, though more sustained supercells may
    materialize by mid to late afternoon. The more intense, long-lived
    storms may produce severe gusts and large hail (with some stones
    potentially exceeding 2 inches in diameter). Low-level shear may
    also become strong enough to support the risk for a couple of
    tornadoes later this afternoon into early evening, when hodographs
    enlarge.

    ..Squitieri/Smith.. 11/02/2024

    …Please see www.spc.noaa.gov for graphic product…

    ATTN…WFO…SJT…MAF…

    LAT…LON 31730415 32240395 32500357 32640296 32770210 32900140
    32810099 32150078 31550141 31290224 31240294 31240347
    31280390 31730415

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC Tornado Watch 698 Status Reports

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

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    Watch 698 Status Reports

    Watch 698 Status Message has not been issued yet.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC Tornado Watch 698

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    Note:  The expiration time in the watch graphic is amended if the watch is replaced, cancelled or extended.Note: Click for Watch Status Reports.
    SEL8

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Tornado Watch Number 698
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    230 PM CDT Sat Nov 2 2024

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Tornado Watch for portions of
    Southeast New Mexico
    West Texas

    * Effective this Saturday afternoon and evening from 230 PM until
    900 PM CDT.

    * Primary threats include…
    A couple tornadoes possible
    Scattered large hail and isolated very large hail events to 2.5
    inches in diameter possible
    Isolated damaging wind gusts to 70 mph possible

    SUMMARY…Isolated to scattered severe thunderstorms are forecast
    this afternoon into the evening across the Permian Basin. A few
    supercells capable of large to very large hail (1 to 2.5 inches in
    diameter) and severe gusts (60-70 mph) are expected. As the
    low-level winds strengthen late this afternoon into the early
    evening, a risk for a couple of tornadoes may develop with the more
    intense supercells to the south of and immediately near an outflow
    boundary draped from west to east across the area. Storms will
    likely grow upscale into one or more small clusters later this
    evening with severe wind and hail becoming the primary hazards.

    The tornado watch area is approximately along and 50 statute miles
    north and south of a line from 10 miles southwest of Carlsbad NM to
    40 miles northeast of Midland TX. For a complete depiction of the
    watch see the associated watch outline update (WOUS64 KWNS WOU8).

    PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

    REMEMBER…A Tornado Watch means conditions are favorable for
    tornadoes and severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch
    area. Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for
    threatening weather conditions and listen for later statements
    and possible warnings.

    &&

    AVIATION…Tornadoes and a few severe thunderstorms with hail
    surface and aloft to 2.5 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind
    gusts to 60 knots. A few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 500. Mean
    storm motion vector 23025.

    …Smith

    SEL8

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Tornado Watch Number 698
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    230 PM CDT Sat Nov 2 2024

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Tornado Watch for portions of
    Southeast New Mexico
    West Texas

    * Effective this Saturday afternoon and evening from 230 PM until
    900 PM CDT.

    * Primary threats include…
    A couple tornadoes possible
    Scattered large hail and isolated very large hail events to 2.5
    inches in diameter possible
    Isolated damaging wind gusts to 70 mph possible

    SUMMARY…Isolated to scattered severe thunderstorms are forecast
    this afternoon into the evening across the Permian Basin. A few
    supercells capable of large to very large hail (1 to 2.5 inches in
    diameter) and severe gusts (60-70 mph) are expected. As the
    low-level winds strengthen late this afternoon into the early
    evening, a risk for a couple of tornadoes may develop with the more
    intense supercells to the south of and immediately near an outflow
    boundary draped from west to east across the area. Storms will
    likely grow upscale into one or more small clusters later this
    evening with severe wind and hail becoming the primary hazards.

    The tornado watch area is approximately along and 50 statute miles
    north and south of a line from 10 miles southwest of Carlsbad NM to
    40 miles northeast of Midland TX. For a complete depiction of the
    watch see the associated watch outline update (WOUS64 KWNS WOU8).

    PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

    REMEMBER…A Tornado Watch means conditions are favorable for
    tornadoes and severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch
    area. Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for
    threatening weather conditions and listen for later statements
    and possible warnings.

    &&

    AVIATION…Tornadoes and a few severe thunderstorms with hail
    surface and aloft to 2.5 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind
    gusts to 60 knots. A few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 500. Mean
    storm motion vector 23025.

    …Smith

    Note: The Aviation Watch (SAW) product is an approximation to the watch area. The actual watch is depicted by the shaded areas.
    SAW8
    WW 698 TORNADO NM TX 021930Z – 030200Z
    AXIS..50 STATUTE MILES NORTH AND SOUTH OF LINE..
    10SW CNM/CARLSBAD NM/ – 40NE MAF/MIDLAND TX/
    ..AVIATION COORDS.. 45NM N/S /62WNW INK – 31NE MAF/
    HAIL SURFACE AND ALOFT..2.5 INCHES. WIND GUSTS..60 KNOTS.
    MAX TOPS TO 500. MEAN STORM MOTION VECTOR 23025.

    LAT…LON 32950439 33080172 31630172 31500439

    THIS IS AN APPROXIMATION TO THE WATCH AREA. FOR A
    COMPLETE DEPICTION OF THE WATCH SEE WOUS64 KWNS
    FOR WOU8.

    Watch 698 Status Report Message has not been issued yet.

    Note:  Click for Complete Product Text.Tornadoes

    Probability of 2 or more tornadoes

    Mod (40%)

    Probability of 1 or more strong (EF2-EF5) tornadoes

    Low (20%)

    Wind

    Probability of 10 or more severe wind events

    Mod (30%)

    Probability of 1 or more wind events > 65 knots

    Low (20%)

    Hail

    Probability of 10 or more severe hail events

    Mod (40%)

    Probability of 1 or more hailstones > 2 inches

    Mod (40%)

    Combined Severe Hail/Wind

    Probability of 6 or more combined severe hail/wind events

    High (70%)

    For each watch, probabilities for particular events inside the watch (listed above in each table) are determined by the issuing forecaster. The “Low” category contains probability values ranging from less than 2% to 20% (EF2-EF5 tornadoes), less than 5% to 20% (all other probabilities), “Moderate” from 30% to 60%, and “High” from 70% to greater than 95%. High values are bolded and lighter in color to provide awareness of an increased threat for a particular event.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Tanzania marks record agricultural achievement as African Development Bank President Adesina urges investment in Africa

    Source: African Development Bank Group
    Tanzania is setting new benchmarks in food self-sufficiency across Africa, raising hope that the fight against hunger and malnutrition on the continent is achievable.
    President Samia Suluhu Hassan of Tanzania said her country had reached 128 percent food security and is now exporting surplus to neighbouring…

    MIL OSI Economics –

    January 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Fatal Crash, Port Hutt Road, Chatham Island

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    A man has died following a single motorcycle crash on Port Hutt Road, Chatham Islands.

    Police responded to the scene around 7pm.

    The rider was transported to hospital where he has since died.

    Enquiries into the circumstances of the crash are ongoing.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    January 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: FEMA Can Help with Moving and Storage Costs for Survivors Affected by Tropical Storm Helene

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: FEMA Can Help with Moving and Storage Costs for Survivors Affected by Tropical Storm Helene

    FEMA Can Help with Moving and Storage Costs for Survivors Affected by Tropical Storm Helene

    RALEIGH, N.C.—North Carolina survivors whose homes were damaged by Tropical Storm Helene, and are not safe to live in, may be eligible for FEMA Moving and Storage Assistance. This assistance can help affected families move and store their essential items while they repair their homes, stay in transitional sheltering or move to permanent housing.To qualify for Moving and Storage Assistance, survivors must apply with FEMA and meet the following conditions: Their primary residence is uninhabitable due to the disaster. They are moving or storing essential household items to prevent further damage. The items they are moving or storing are considered essential, such as appliances, furniture or clothing.FEMA will only consider moving and storage costs that aren’t fully covered by other sources like insurance. Eligible expenses include:Commercial moving labor.Moving truck rental.Fuel for the rental vehicle.Tape and boxes.Storage unit fees.Sales taxes.There’s still time to apply with FEMA; You can visit DisasterAssistance.gov, download the FEMA App or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. The telephone line is open every day, and help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service. To view an accessible video on how to apply, visit Three Ways to Apply for FEMA Disaster Assistance – YouTube.
    krystin.ventura
    Sat, 11/02/2024 – 19:53

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Appeal for witnesses to serious collision in Wandsworth

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Police are appealing for witnesses following a serious collision in Wandsworth.

    Police were called at about 22:30hrs on Friday, 1 November to reports of a collision involving a van and a cyclist on Tooting Bec Road at the junction with Franciscan Road, SW17.

    Officers and the London Ambulance Service attended. The cyclist has been taken to hospital where they remain in a life-threatening condition.

    The 50-year-old driver of the van was arrested on suspicion causing serious personal injury by dangerous driving, failing to stop at an accident and unfit through drink. He remains in custody at this time.

    Detectives from the Roads and Transport Policing Command are investigating.

    Anyone with information or dash cam footage is asked to call 101 reference 8934/01Nov.

    MIL Security OSI –

    January 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: UPDATE – Serious crash, Broadlands

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Ten people are reportedly injured from the crash in Broadlands, Rotorua this morning.

    It involved a single bus rolling at the intersection of Broadlands Road and Allen Road shortly before 7:30am.

    Three people have serious injuries, two are moderately injured, and five others have minor injuries – all have been taken to hospital by helicopter.

    The road remains blocked and is expected to remain so for some time.

    Diversions are in pace at Ohaaki Road and Vaile Road.

    ENDS

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    January 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Albanese Labor Government to cut a further 20 per cent off all student loans debt

    Source: Australian Ministers for Education

    The Albanese Labor Government will cut a further 20 per cent off all student loan debts, wiping around $16 billion in student debt for around three million Australians.

    By 1 June next year, the Government will cut 20 per cent off all student loans to reduce the debt burden for Australians with a student loan. 

    This will cut around $16 billion in debt, including all HELP, VET Student Loan, Australian Apprenticeship Support Loan and other income-contingent student support loan accounts that exist on 1 June next year.

    For someone with the average HELP debt of $27,600 they will see around $5,520 wiped from their outstanding HELP loans next year.

    This will provide significant relief to Australian students and workers with a student loan debt and builds on our reforms to fix the indexation formula, which is cutting around $3 billion in student debt.

    This means, all up, the Albanese Labor Government will cut close to $20 billion in student loan debt for more than three million Australians.

    This builds on the Government’s announcement that from 1 July next year it will reduce the amount Australians with a student debt have to repay per year and raise the threshold when people need to start repaying.

    Together these reforms also build on the Government’s substantial tertiary education reforms, including: 

    • Delivering 500,000 Fee-Free TAFE places
    • Doubling the number of University Study Hubs
    • Introducing legislation to establish the Commonwealth Prac Payment and expand Fee-Free Uni Ready Courses; and
    • A commitment to introduce a new managed growth and needs-based funding model for universities, and establish an Australian Tertiary Education Commission.

    Quotes attributable to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese:

    “I will always fight for every young Australian to have access to a good education. My Government will make sure our education system is fairer and affordable for every Australian and we won’t delay unwinding the damage caused by the former Coalition Government.

    “We’re already fixing indexation and today, we are going further by taking 20 per cent off student debt – for everyone with a student debt.

    “This will help everyone with a student debt right now, whilst we work hard to deliver a better deal for every student in the years ahead.

    “No matter where you live or how much your parents earn, my Government will work to ensure the doors of opportunity are open for you.”

    Quotes attributable to Minister for Education Jason Clare: 

    “This is a game-changer for the more than three million Australians with a student loan.

    “By 1 June next year, we will wipe around a further $16 billion from all Australians with a student dent, including Australians who went to uni and vocational education.

    “This builds on our changes to make indexation fairer and all up this means we are wiping close to $20 billion in student debt.

    “This is another significant reform that will help us build a better and fairer education system.”

    Quotes attributable to Minister for Social Services Amanda Rishworth:

    “This is great news for Australians with student debt – whether from studying at university or vocational education – the Albanese Government will reduce their debt alongside our changes to make indexation fairer.

    “We want all Australians to have the opportunity for higher education, and our changes are making the system fairer and more affordable.”

    Quotes attributable to Minister for Skills and Training Andrew Giles: 

    “This will deliver very welcome cost-of-living relief to the more than three million Australians who have student loans and is an example of the great Labor tradition of making education more accessible. 

    “This support applies to all government student loans including vocational training, so whether you’re an apprentice or a tradie, a carer or a nurse, if you’re paying off a student loan you’ll receive this cost of living relief.”

    MIL OSI News –

    January 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Location Change for Disaster Recovery Center in Connecticut

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Location Change for Disaster Recovery Center in Connecticut

    Location Change for Disaster Recovery Center in Connecticut

    FEMA announces a location change to the Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) in Connecticut, a temporary facility established in partnership between the state and FEMA, where survivors affected by the August 18-19 Severe Storm, Flooding, Landslides and Mudslides may go to apply for FEMA assistance, upload documents needed for their application and get their questions answered in person. FEMA’s Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) in Southbury, New Haven County will change locations. Current location:Sacred Heart Catholic Church910 Main Street, South, Southbury, CT 06488Note: The last day for service at this DRC is Monday, November 4, 2024, from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.  At 8:00 a.m. on Thursday, November 7, 2024, the Southbury DRC will reopen at in its new location: Southbury Town Hall501 Main Street, SouthSouthbury, CT 06488  Hours of operation: Hours: Monday – Friday: 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Saturday: 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.Sunday: Closed  Note: There will be no DRC service at any location on Tuesday, November 5 and Wednesday, November 6, 2024. Survivors don’t need to visit a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) to apply for FEMA assistance. To apply without visiting a DRC, go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, download the FEMA mobile app or call the FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-3362. If you use a relay service such as video relay service, captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service when you apply.
    adrien.urbani
    Sat, 11/02/2024 – 20:23

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Todd McClay to lead large trade mission to China

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Trade and Agriculture Minister Todd McClay will lead a large trade delegation to the 7th annual China International Import Expo (CIIE) in Shanghai next week, followed by a visit to Guangzhou.

    This year, almost 70 New Zealand companies will participate in CIIE, to interact with over 3,400 exhibitors and 410,000 visitors. 

    “This visit is part of the Government delivering on its promise to lead more trade missions than any previous administration during this term of parliament, Mr McClay says. 

    “China is our largest export market accounting for $38 billion in two-way trade. This is a significant economic partnership for both countries. It’s important we continue to invest in this relationship and grow the New Zealand economy by assisting our exporters to sell more,

    “The CIIE will showcase New Zealand’s safe, high-quality and innovative products and our world-leading service sector to China’s growing middle class of over 500 million consumers.”

    While supporting New Zealand exhibitors at the Expo, Minister McClay will also meet with Chinese trade leaders and deliver a keynote address at the Hongqiao International Economic Forum, underscoring New Zealand’s commitment to expanding its trade partnerships and reinforcing the Government’s goal of doubling New Zealand’s exports by value in ten years.

    Following CIIE, Mr McClay will visit Guangzhou, a commercial gateway for New Zealand into southern China where he will engage with Kiwi businesses operating in the region.

    “A strong export sector is part of our plan to grow the economy, lift incomes for kiwis, and create jobs.”

    This will be Mr McClay’s second visit to China this year following political meetings in April.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    January 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New deal for biodiversity from using nature’s genetic information

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Breakthrough deal struck on sharing the benefits from Digital Sequence Information (DSI) at CBD COP16 in Colombia

    Negotiations on Digital Sequence Information (DSI) have concluded today (2 November) at CBD COP16 in Cali, Colombia.

    DSI is genetic information that has been sequenced from the natural world, with the DNA code then made available online for use in research. This is the type of data used by companies across the world for the creation of new medicines, vaccines and other products. By continuing to ensure it is freely available digitally, it will enable scientists to share information and develop the products that we rely on, whilst supporting the conservation of nature. 

    This research can be applied to medicine, agriculture, conservation and public health, with benefits such as the development of vaccines or adapting plants to be more resilient to climate change.

    The deal reached means businesses have the option of voluntarily contributing to a new fund – known as the Cali Fund – if they use this genetic information from nature. 

    This Fund will then support further use of DSI and the conservation and sustainable use of nature, with a significant proportion flowing to Indigenous People and local communities.

    Nature Minister Mary Creagh said:

    We have seen the many benefits of DSI, including identifying infectious diseases, predicting which plants will survive in a warming climate, or helping protect threatened species.

    More than half of the global economy is estimated to be dependent in some way on the ecosystem services that nature provides, so this latest deal is critical in supporting future growth and development.

    I would like to thank the UK negotiating team and all those involved who helped conclude these important negotiations.

    Eva Zabey, Chief Executive at Business for Nature, said:

    Nature underpins every aspect of our economy. The benefits of natural resources – including through digital sequencing – must be valued and shared fairly, which is why this deal is so important.

    Ms Bupe Mwambingu, Biodiversity Partnerships Manager at Basecamp Research, a UK-based company which is working to build the first fully traceable DSI database, said:

    We are thrilled to welcome the COP16 decision on Digital Sequence Information (DSI). We believe that by working together to address the challenges around DSI, we have a unique opportunity to accelerate the development of life-saving medicines, sustainable food supplies, and carbon-negative industries, while also driving the protection of our planet’s precious biodiversity.

    Over 196 governments – plus businesses, researchers, Indigenous Peoples and local communities – have been involved in reaching this deal

    The UK government will now work with industry on developing a voluntary mechanism.

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    Published 2 November 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    January 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sen. Brandon Beach, Sen. John Albers and Sen. Matt Brass Demand Transparency From the Fulton County Board of Elections

    Source: US State of Georgia

    ATLANTA (November 2, 2024) — Today, Senate Committee on Economic Development and Tourism Chairman Brandon Beach (R – Alpharetta), Senate Committee on Public Safety Chairman John Albers (R – Roswell) and Senate Committee on Rules Chairman Matt Brass (R – Newnan) issued statements following the decision by unelected and interim Fulton election bureaucrats on opening four election offices for the purpose of collecting absentee ballots and denying election observers and poll watchers.

    “After 19 days of early voting, the Fulton County Board of Elections, without the knowledge of the Secretary of State’s office, violated the spirit of free and fair elections and the will of the General Assembly by opening four government buildings in order to receive absentee ballots,” said Sen. Brandon Beach. “This decision raises serious questions regarding the chain of custody of ballots, posing a threat to transparency in our elections. We must do everything we can to promote trust among the electorate. The recent actions of the Fulton County Board of Elections have eroded that trust.”

    “I am deeply concerned by the recent decisions made by unelected and interim Fulton elections workers. These actions were taken without the approval of the Fulton Elections Board, Fulton County Commissioners or the Secretary of State. These same unelected Fulton elections workers then, in writing, told each other they were not allowed to have observers, clearly subverting the law and removing transparency,” said Sen. John Albers. “When we questioned the interim Elections Director, she misrepresented facts and was uncooperative. We will continue to monitor this ongoing situation and have been in contact with the Secretary of State’s office and legal counsel regarding these issues. It is paramount that we ensure public trust and promote transparency in our election process.”

    “Transparency on the front end of the election process is how to prevent confusion on the back end. Our state laws are designed to do just that and must be followed, Fulton County is no exception,” said Sen. Matt Brass.

    # # # #

    Sen. Brandon Beach serves as the Chairman of the Economic Development and Tourism Committee. He represents the 21st Senate District which includes portions of Cherokee and Fulton counties. He may be reached at 404.463.1378 or by email at brandon.beach@senate.ga.gov

    Sen. John Albers serves as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Public Safety. He represents the 56th Senate District which includes portions of Cherokee, Cobb and Fulton counties. He may be reached at his office at 404.463.8055 or by email at john.albers@senate.ga.gov

    Sen. Matt Brass serves as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Rules. Sen. Brass represents the 28th Senate District, which includes Coweta and Heard, as well as parts of Douglas and Fulton County. He can be reached by email at matt.brass@senate.ga.gov

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ernst, Grassley Slam USCIS Failure to Comply with Federal and State Requests for Citizenship Voter Data

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA)
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) and Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) released the below joint statement regarding the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services’ (USCIS) failure to release citizenship information on 2,176 potential non-citizen Iowa voters.
    USCIS confirmed receipt of the senators’October 31 letter supporting Iowa Secretary of State Paul Pate’s request for the data, writing, “A fulsome response to Secretary Pate’s request is forthcoming.” The agency neither provided the information Grassley and Ernst asked for by Friday, November 1, nor specified when or if it would do so. “Anything short of the information Secretary Pate requested is unacceptable. Iowa has worked in good faith to secure its electoral process and safeguard Americans’ cherished right to vote. Unfortunately, USCIS’ stonewalling has led to more questions than answers. The Iowa Secretary of State has assured us protections are in place to ensure all legally registered voters’ ballots are counted. It is paramount the federal government provide Iowa election officials the requested information so they can accurately discern which individuals ought to be casting provisional ballots.  
    “We reiterate our demand for USCIS to immediately release the requested information, to ensure all eligible citizens can participate in our elections. With Election Day right around the corner, there’s no time for federal officials to waste.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: HK youth shine at ‘Skills Olympics’

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The WorldSkills Competition took place in Lyon, France, in September. This year, the Construction Industry Council sent seven competitors to participate in six categories.

    One of them was Wesley Fong, 20, who graduated from the Hong Kong Institute of Construction in 2022. He won the championship in the 2nd Hong Kong Construction Skills Competition last year, earning the qualification to compete as a finalist in joinery at the WorldSkills Competition, after training and assessment.

    “It typically takes five to six years to train a competitor in other countries or regions, but we only had about one year, which necessitated intensive training and precise planning,” Mr Fong’s instructor, Hong Kong Institute of Construction Supervising Instructor Terence Lam explained.

    “Initially, Wesley struggled with some of the skills, leaving him frustrated. We needed to push him, even scold him, but sometimes he just needed a bit of encouragement. As Wesley was willing to spend time on weekends to practise, of course we wanted to help him.”

    Facing challenges

    The 19 joinery trade competitors were required to carry out the requested project within 22 hours over four days. They were given a sketch and asked to create a one-to-one drawing. Working from the drawing, the joiner would measure and cut joints then assemble, install, and finish a door with its frame to a high standard.

    Even with adequate preparation, Mr Fong admitted that the road to success did not come easy.

    “I made some mistakes in the drawing and felt a little discouraged on the first night of the competition,” he said.

    “The next day I made improvements, so I was able to make up for the mistakes and they did not affect me too much. When I saw the competitors next to me working so hard, I was inspired to raise my game.”

    Mr Fong’s hard work paid off and he was awarded a medallion for excellence, an outcome he said he never anticipated. The final result has boosted his confidence and he is now determined to continue with a career in the construction industry.

    Meanwhile, his instructor Mr Lam, who has been teaching for nearly 30 years, wishes to pass on his knowledge to his students and expressed hope for a sustainable industry.

    Family skills

    Ricky Chow, 22, also won a medallion for excellence at WorldSkills Lyon 2024 in welding – a skill taught to him by his father, which he was proud to showcase to the world.

    Like Mr Fong, he made it on to the WorldSkills team after winning the Hong Kong Construction Industry Skills Competition last year.

    The welding competitors had to complete four modules that involved working on carbon steel, a pressure vessel, aluminium and stainless steel within 18 hours. Mr Chow found welding the pressure vessel to be the most challenging task, as it required utilising all welding techniques to ensure it was watertight.

    “Initially, most of my pressure vessels leaked, with only one or two being watertight. After practising for six months to a year, I gradually learnt the necessary techniques. Welding a pressure vessel is also physically demanding and time-consuming.”

    But Mr Chow stayed focused and recalled his instructor’s advice to pull him through the tough moments of the competition.

    “My instructor advised me to stick to my usual methods and once I completed all the modules, I would proceed to the stage where I could receive an award.”

    Rigorous training

    He missed out on the top three awards, but received a medallion for excellence. His instructor, Hong Kong Institute of Construction Instructor Charles Li attributed Mr Chow’s success to his perseverance.

    “Despite training for only one year, compared to Ricky’s competitors from other places who trained for three to five years, he worked diligently. His schedule was demanding, training from 8am to 10pm, including weekends and public holidays.

    “Ricky may not have been the most skilled of all the trainees, but he certainly was the most persistent. He was the only one to complete the training.”

    Organised biennially by WorldSkills International, the WorldSkills Competition is the largest skills competition globally and hailed as the “Skills Olympics”. This year, the Construction Industry Council sent seven competitors, with two winning medallions for excellence – achieving the best ever results by Hong Kong construction industry players.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    January 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Visit to Shanghai

    Source: Minister for Trade

    Today I will travel to Shanghai to lead Australia’s delegation at the world’s largest import expo, the China International Import Expo (CIIE), at the invitation of China’s Minister of Commerce, Wang Wentao.

    The expo is an important platform for Australian businesses to showcase their world-class goods and services to our largest export market.

    In the year since Prime Minister Albanese and I attended the last expo, tariffs on Australian wine imports into China have been removed and suspensions lifted on eight red meat export facilities.

    Last month, Prime Minister Albanese and Chinese Premier Li agreed a timetable for the full resumption of Australian live rock lobster exports by the end of this year.

    As a result of the Albanese Labor Government’s deliberate, careful and calibrated approach, nearly $20 billion worth of trade impediments on Australian exports to China have been removed.

    But we can’t rest on our laurels, the job is not done.

    Which is why I am proud to be supporting a record number of Australian businesses at the expo this year as they seek out new opportunities to grow and diversify their markets.

    I will meet with my counterpart, Minister Wentao, where I will continue to press for the full resumption of normal bilateral trade.

    China is our largest trading partner and will remain so for the foreseeable future. Total two-way trade reached a record $327 billion in 2023.

    The benefits of our trade relationship with China flow to everyday Australians in the form of more well-paying jobs, increased business opportunities, and a lower cost of living.

    Every single product we export to the world represents thousands of Australian jobs, and the Albanese Labor Government is committed to helping Australian businesses, exporters and producers diversify their markets.

    MIL OSI News –

    January 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI China: One year into free-trade zone, Xinjiang embraces further opening up

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

    URUMQI, Nov. 2 — Edil Mohammed, who commutes daily for about an hour by bus from Yarkent, Kazakhstan, to Horgos, China, has adapted to the lifestyle of cross-border work.

    As the head of a branch of Kazakhstan’s Bank CenterCredit, which is located in the China-Kazakhstan International Border Cooperation Center in Horgos, northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, he is part of a pioneering group of foreign banks that entered Xinjiang following the establishment of the China (Xinjiang) Pilot Free Trade Zone (FTZ) in November 2023.

    The Xinjiang pilot FTZ, which encompasses three iconic areas — Urumqi, Kashgar and Horgos — stands as the first FTZ in China’s northwestern border regions and the 22nd nationwide. As it embraces its first anniversary, the zone has shown promising results.

    As the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) continues to forge ahead, Xinjiang has committed to building itself into an important corridor linking Asia and Europe and to serving as a gateway for China’s opening-up efforts in the west.

    “Global investors are seizing opportunities in the pilot FTZ, and many jobseekers have found satisfying positions, such as in cross-border e-commerce, international live-streaming, translation and diverse agents,” said Mohammed, adding that the growth of new business models and expanding trade will attract even more international financial institutions and enterprises.

    SUPPORTIVE POLICIES

    Qin Xiaoyu, a customs declarer at a foreign-trade enterprise specializing in the import and export of daily consumer goods to five Central Asian countries, has benefited from enhanced services following the establishment of a dedicated market procurement window at the FTZ’s Urumqi area.

    “The consultation and whole process only take a few minutes,” said Qin. “The dedicated service window can save both time and costs. Enterprises benefit from policies such as value-added tax exemptions, simplified declaration processes and flexible foreign exchange collection, all of which improve export efficiency.”

    The service window is part of a broader set of measures rolled out by the Xinjiang pilot FTZ to boost foreign trade, providing a low-cost, high-efficiency export channel for small and micro enterprises, as well as individual businesses, according to Ju Ning, an official at the Urumqi Economic & Technological Development Zone.

    “The ‘green channel’ for the rapid customs clearance of agricultural products at the border ports between China-Kazakhstan, China-Tajikistan and China-Kyrgyzstan has been fully implemented, cutting the customs declaration time for agricultural exports from five days to just one day,” said He Yadong, a spokesperson for the Ministry of Commerce.

    Statistics show that from January to August, Xinjiang’s import and export volume increased by 30.9 percent to 285.32 billion yuan (about 40.11 billion U.S. dollars).

    “The pilot FTZ prioritizes institutional innovation, actively exploring reforms in government functions, management models, and the facilitation of trade and investment. It effectively plays a leading role in deepening reform and expanding opening up,” said Buvejer Abula, a researcher of economic and social development with the Xinjiang Agricultural University.

    RISING INDUSTRIAL CLUSTERS

    In the FTZ’s Horgos area, refrigerated trucks loaded with fruit and vegetables pass through a fast-track customs clearance “green channel” destined for Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Russia and beyond.

    Yu Chengzhong’s trade company exports over 500 tonnes of fruit and more than 300 tonnes of vegetables daily. This fresh produce can reach markets in Almaty in Kazakhstan within just a few hours.

    “The establishment of the FTZ has given our company a unique opportunity for growth,” said Yu, adding that the company has established sales networks in the five Central Asian countries, and this year, the company built a 66-hectare warehouse in Kazakhstan to further penetrate local markets.

    In the production workshop of a lithium battery enterprise called Shengyuehengchang, two automated production lines, each capable of producing 200,000 Ah lithium batteries per day, are running smoothly, fulfilling orders for its clients in Kyrgyzstan.

    The company normally manufactures small-capacity batteries but is now transitioning towards high-rate energy storage and power battery production. These batteries are primarily sold to the Central Asian market and are widely used in products such as electric motorcycles, drones, power tools and solar-energy products.

    “Leveraging the FTZ’s geographical advantages and favorable opening up policies, local companies are increasingly eyeing overseas markets for diverse development paths,” said Bo Yinjiang, an official with the Kashgar Economic Development Zone.

    The zone has already attracted 28 enterprises related to lithium batteries, covering the areas of lithium battery materials, manufacturing and supply chains. The annual output value of the enterprises is expected to exceed 10 billion yuan upon full operation, forming a burgeoning lithium battery industry cluster.

    “Since the pilot FTZ’s inception, a number of business associations and companies have visited Xinjiang to seek market opportunities and collaboration. There is also a rise in foreign-invested enterprises,” said Li Xuan, from the regional commerce department.

    “The pilot FTZ offers a significant historical opportunity for pursuing high-level opening up and high-quality development in Xinjiang. It must actively align with high-standard international trade and economic rules, integrate into the dual circulation of domestic and international markets, and support the development of the core region of the BRI,” Li added.

    The Ministry of Commerce will promote the industrial exchange and cooperation between the Xinjiang pilot FTZ and the central and eastern regions of the country, and support the FTZ in prioritizing key industries and fostering integrated innovation throughout the entire value chain, according to He, the ministry spokesperson.

    MIL OSI China News –

    January 26, 2025
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