Paducah, KY – Last week, following a three-day trial, a federal jury convicted a Princeton, Kentucky man of three counts of distribution of methamphetamine and one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Acting Special Agent in Charge Erek G. Davodowich of the DEA Louisville Field Division, Chief Chris King of the Princeton Police Department, and Director David Thompson of the Pennyrile Narcotics Task Force made the announcement.
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, on August 26 and 27, 2021, Micah Gray, 44, distributed quantities of methamphetamine on three occasions. On August 27, 2021, investigators searched Gray’s apartment and located approximately one and one-half pounds of methamphetamine and items related to methamphetamine distribution.
Gray is scheduled for sentencing on February 21, 2025, before a United States District Judge for the Western District of Kentucky. Gray remains in federal custody pending sentencing, and he faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years and a maximum sentence of life in prison. A federal district court judge will determine the sentence after considering the sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors.
There is no parole in the federal system.
The DEA, the Pennyrile Narcotics Task Force, and the Princeton Police Department investigated the case, with assistance from the Kentucky State Police and the Commonwealth Attorney’s Office for the 56th Judicial Circuit of Kentucky.
Assistant United States Attorney Seth A. Hancock, Chief of the U.S. Attorney’s Paducah Branch Office, is prosecuting the case with assistance from paralegal Cristy Crockett.
NASHVILLE – Thomas J. Jaworski, Acting United States Attorney for the Middle District of Tennessee, today announced a new initiative aimed at prosecuting unlawful firearm possession by individuals previously charged with murder and attempted murder. “Operation Bond Watch” seeks to deter defendants who are out on bond for serious violent crimes from illegally possessing firearms and potentially putting the community at risk. The program seeks to deter those released on bond for First Degree Murder, Felony Murder, Second Degree Murder, Attempted First Degree Murder, and Attempted Second Degree murder from unlawfully possessing firearms.
Under this new program, if an individual on bond for a serious violent crime is found to have unlawfully possessed a firearm, federal prosecutors will, where the evidence supports it, swiftly seek appropriate federal charges against those individuals. “The goal is to keep the community safe from gun violence,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Thomas J. Jaworski, “and to prevent those on bond while charged with murder and attempted murder from illegally carrying guns while awaiting their day in court.”
“Breaking cycles of violent gun crime by repeat offenders is essential to the safety of the Nashville community,” said Metro Police Chief John Drake. “Operation Bond Watch is an important tool in a system of checks and balances between a defendant’s arrest and ultimate adjudication of the case. I am grateful to Acting U.S. Attorney Jaworski and our strong partners in the ATF and FBI for their commitment in helping us hold violent criminals accountable.”
“Protecting the public is at the core of our ATF mission,” said Special Agent in Charge Marcus Watson of the ATF Nashville Field Division. “We, along with our law enforcement partners, stand ready to work tirelessly to prevent those who choose to illegally possess firearms from wreaking havoc on law abiding citizens.”
“The FBI is committed to working with our law enforcement and prosecutorial partners on Operation Bond Watch,” said Special Agent in Charge Joe Carrico of the FBI Nashville Field Office. “Here in Tennessee, the FBI will continue to use all the tools at our disposal to deter defendants who are out on bond for serious violent crimes from illegally possessing firearms. Everyone deserves to live in a community free of gun violence.”
In April 2024, a Nashville man out on bond for a 2021 murder was arrested on suspicion of committing another murder; both cases are still pending. “We believe in the presumption of innocence and a right to a fair trial,” Jaworski said, “but we also believe that the community should be protected from individuals unlawfully possessing firearms when there is the potential to cause destructive violence.”
Prosecutors in the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Nashville have previously charged individuals on bond for murder with unlawful weapons possession offenses. For example, Mark Ellis, 30, of Clarksville was on bond for First Degree Murder when he was arrested with a 9mm pistol and a pound of fentanyl during a drug deal. In March of 2024, Ellis was sentenced to 25 years in federal prison for his crimes.
This new effort will bring more federal resources to bear against individuals who unlawfully possess firearms while on bond for serious violent crimes. “Our commitment to the safety of our community has been steadfast,” Jaworski said, “this new initiative will hopefully deter those awaiting a trial on serious charges from illegally carrying a gun, which is better for everyone.”
This initiative is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
TULSA, Okla. – U.S. District Judge John D. Russell sentenced Brian Harris Carlile, 31, for Receipt, Distribution, and Possession of Child Pornography in Indian Country. Judge Russell ordered Carlile to 121 months imprisonment, followed by 10 years of supervised release. Upon his release, Carlile will also be required to register as a sex offender. Restitution for the victims will be determined at a later date.
From June 2023 through September 2023, Carlile admittingly used his cell phone to possess, receive, and distribute images and videos that contained minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct. Many of the images or videos that Carlile possessed included minors under the age of 12.
Carlile is a citizen of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation. He will remain in custody pending transfer to the U.S. Bureau of Prisons.
The Homeland Security Investigations and Tulsa County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ashley Robert prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood (PSC), a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section leads PSC, which marshals federal, state and local resources to locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children and identifies and rescues victims. For more information about PSC, please visit DOJ’s PSC page. For more information about internet safety education, please visit the resources tab on that page.
Bowling Green, KY – A federal grand jury in Bowling Green returned an indictment on October 9, 2024, charging a Cumberland County, Kentucky man with setting fire to the Burkesville, Kentucky City Hall.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge R. Shawn Morrow of the ATF Louisville Field Division, and Commissioner Phillip Burnett, Jr. of the Kentucky State Police made the announcement.
According to the indictment, Nathan Riddle, 47, was charged with arson of a building receiving federal funds, and arson of a building affecting interstate commerce. On October 25, 2020, Riddle, maliciously damaged by means of fire, the Burkesville City Hall, which was owned by the City of Burkesville, Kentucky. The City of Burkesville received federal funding and the building was involved in business which affected interstate commerce.
Riddle made his initial court appearance before a U.S. Magistrate Judge of the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Kentucky on October 17, 2024. The Court ordered the defendant detained pending further proceedings. If convicted, Riddle faces a minimum sentence of 5 years in prison, and a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors.
There is no parole in the federal system.
This case is being investigated by the ATF and the Kentucky State Police.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark J. Yurchisin II of the United States Attorney’s Bowling Green Branch Office is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
ALEXANDRIA, Va. – An Alexandria man was sentenced yesterday to 10 years in prison for selling counterfeit oxycodone pills containing fentanyl.
According to court documents, from at least February to April 2024, Alhagi Gassim Conteh, 30, obtained nearly 4,000 counterfeit oxycodone pills imprinted with “M30,” but which contained fentanyl, and distributed them.
Throughout the conspiracy, Conteh, a convicted felon, used a source in Fredericksburg to obtain fentanyl pills to sell to the confidential source (CS) and others. Conteh told the CS that his “man” in Fredericksburg was receiving packages of up to 30,000 fentanyl pills at a time, and Conteh sold these fentanyl pills to the CS.
On April 12, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Conteh’s residence in Alexandria and recovered approximately 500 fentanyl pills, cocaine, two magazines with a total of 36 rounds of ammunition, a digital scale, and a handheld pill press.
Jessica D. Aber, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, and Jarod Forget, Special Agent in Charge for the Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) Washington Division, made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge Leonie M. Brinkema.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kristin S. Starr prosecuted the case.
Assistance was provided by the Washington/Baltimore High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) task force.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:24-cr-140.
LONDON, Ky. – A Corbin, Ky., woman and former pharmacist, Stephanie Collins, 57, has been sentenced to 20 months, by U.S. District Judge Claria Horn Boom, for her role in a scheme to defraud Medicare and Medicaid, by billing for medications that she never dispensed to her customers.
According to her plea agreement, Collins operated as a registered pharmacist and operated Stephanie’s Down Home Pharmacy, a retail pharmacy located in Corbin. The pharmacy sought reimbursement from Medicare and Kentucky Medicaid for the drugs and other medical products it dispensed to its customers. As part of the scheme to defraud these taxpayer-funded health care benefit programs, Collins used the pharmacy’s computer system to submit claims for payment for prescription drugs that patients never picked up or otherwise received. Collins also submitted fraudulent claims for diabetic test strips, billing Kentucky Medicaid for more expensive test strips when she was actually giving her customers lower-cost test strips. In total, her false and fraudulent claims caused Kentucky Medicaid and Medicare to reimburse Collins’ pharmacy $730,055.78.
Under federal law, Collins must serve 85 percent of her prison sentence. Upon her release from prison, she will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for two years. The Court also ordered Collins to pay $730,055.78 in restitution.
Carlton S. Shier, IV, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; Erek Davodowich, Acting Special Agent in Charge, DEA, Louisville Field Division; Karen Wingerd, Special Agent in Charge, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation; and Tamala E. Miles, Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG), jointly announced the sentence.
The case was investigated by the DEA, IRS, HHS-OIG; the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services, Office of Inspector General, Drug Enforcement and Professional Practices Branch; and the Kentucky Board of Pharmacy. Assistant U.S. Attorney Andy Smith prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States.
SEATTLE—A Washington State defense attorney was arraigned in federal court Monday after he was indicted for joining a criminal conspiracy to smuggle drugs into the King County Correctional Facility (KCCF), a jail located in Seattle, during client visits.
John M. Sheeran, 60, of Pierce County, Washington has been charged with conspiring to distribute controlled substances, possessing and distributing methamphetamine, distributing buprenorphine, and illegally using a communication facility.
According to the indictment, Sheeran used his status as an attorney to smuggle controlled substances, including methamphetamine, ketamine, buprenorphine, and THC, to two of his then- clients and inmates at KCCF during legal visits. During the conspiracy, Sheeran distributed, or possessed with an intent to distribute, sheets of paper that had been soaked in drugs, chewing tobacco cans that swapped out the tobacco with drugs, and trial clothes that had drugs concealed in the soles of the shoes. After Sheeran successfully smuggled the drugs into KCCF, Sheeran’s co-conspirators sold the drugs to other inmates for significant sums.
On October 16, 2024, a federal grand jury in Seattle returned an indictment charging Sheeran and four co-conspirators. Sheeran was arrested Monday without incident in Washington Place, Washington.
Sheeran made his initial appearance in federal court Monday before a U.S. Magistrate Judge in Seattle. He was arraigned, pleaded not guilty, and ordered released pending a jury trial scheduled to begin on December 20, 2024.
If convicted, Sheeran faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison, a minimum of three years’ supervised release, and a fine up to $1 million.
The case was investigated by the FBI and King County Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Robert S. Trisotto, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon, acting as Special Attorney for the Western District of Washington.
An indictment is only an accusation of a crime, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
ALBUQUERQUE – An Alamogordo man was sentenced to 72 months in federal prison for providing the modified shotgun used to shoot and kill an Alamogordo Police Officer.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court documents, Jonah Apodaca, 31, provided a “sawed-off” shotgun to Dominic Cruz De La O which he is accused of later using to shoot and kill Alamogordo Police Officer Anthony Ferguson on July 16, 2023. Apodaca’s DNA was located on the shotgun shell recovered from the chamber of the shotgun and ammunition from the magazine tube.
Upon his release from prison, Apodaca will be subject to three years of supervised release.
De La O was charged with possession of a firearm not registered with the National Firearm Registration and Transfer Record and possession of a firearm not identified by a serial number. De La O remains in custody pending trial which is currently scheduled to begin February 26, 2025.
U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez and Brendan Iber, Special Agent in Charge of the Phoenix Field Division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, made the announcement today.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated this case with assistance from the Alamogordo Police Department, New Mexico State Police, and the Otero County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Maria Y. Armijo and Ry Ellison are prosecuting the case.
PITTSBURGH, Pa. – United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced that Assistant United States Attorneys (AUSAs) Jeffrey R. Bengel and Nicole A. Stockey will lead the efforts of his Office in connection with the Justice Department’s nationwide Election Day Program for the upcoming November 5, 2024, general election. AUSAs Bengel and Stockey have been appointed to serve as the District Election Officers (DEOs) for the Western District of Pennsylvania, and, in that capacity, are responsible for overseeing the District’s handling of election day complaints of voting rights concerns, threats of violence to election officials or staff, and election fraud, in consultation with Justice Department Headquarters in Washington.
United States Attorney Olshan said: “Every citizen must be able to vote without interference or discrimination and to have that vote counted in a fair and free election. Similarly, election officials and staff must be able to serve without being subject to unlawful threats of violence. The Department of Justice will always work tirelessly to protect the integrity of the election process.”
The Department of Justice has an important role in deterring and combatting discrimination and intimidation at the polls, threats of violence directed at election officials and poll workers, and election fraud. The Department will address these violations wherever they occur. The Department’s longstanding Election Day Program furthers these goals and also seeks to ensure public confidence in the electoral process by providing local points of contact within the Department for the public to report possible federal election law violations.
Federal law protects against such crimes as threatening violence against election officials or staff, intimidating or bribing voters, buying and selling votes, impersonating voters, altering vote tallies, stuffing ballot boxes, and marking ballots for voters against their wishes or without their input. It also contains special protections for the rights of voters, and provides that they can vote free from interference, including intimidation, and other acts designed to prevent or discourage people from voting or voting for the candidate of their choice. The Voting Rights Act protects the right of voters to mark their own ballot or to be assisted by a person of their choice (where voters need assistance because of disability or inability to read or write in English).
United States Attorney Olshan stated: “The franchise is the cornerstone of American democracy. We all must ensure that those who are entitled to the franchise can exercise it if they choose, and that those who seek to corrupt it are brought to justice. In order to respond to complaints of voting rights concerns and election fraud during the upcoming election, and to ensure that such complaints are directed to the appropriate authorities, AUSAs Bengel and Stockey will be on duty in this District while the polls are open and can be reached by the public by calling (412) 644-3500.”
In addition, the FBI will have special agents available in each field office and resident agency throughout the country to receive allegations of election fraud and other election abuses on election day. The local FBI field office can be reached by the public at (412) 432-4000.
Complaints about possible violations of the federal voting rights laws can be made directly to the Civil Rights Division in Washington, D.C., by complaint form at https://civilrights.justice.gov/ or by phone at 800-253-3931.
United States Attorney Olshan said: “Ensuring free and fair elections depends in large part on the assistance of the American electorate. It is important that those who have specific information about voting rights concerns or election fraud make that information available to the Department of Justice.”
In the case of a crime of violence or intimidation, please call 911 immediately and before contacting federal authorities. State and local police have primary jurisdiction over polling places, and almost always have faster reaction capacity in an emergency.
Source: United States of America – Department of State (video statements)
Secretary Blinken in remarks to the press during travel to the Middle East from October 21 – 25, 2024:
Since October 7th, Israel has achieved important strategic objectives to ensure that October 7th can never happen again. Israel has dismantled Hamas’ military capacity, destroyed much of its arsenal, and eliminated its senior leadership. Now is the time to turn those strategic anchievement into an enduring strategic success.
During my meetings with officials in Israel, we spoke about how there are two main things left to do: get the hostages home and bring the war to an end with an understanding of what will follow. As I continue my travel in the region and Europe, I am focused on working with our partners to achieve these objectives and identify a common vision for a path forward.
As discussions continue, it’s also essential that humanitarian assistance reaches the people who need it in Gaza. While Israel has made progress in recent weeks in improving access to humanitarian assistance, much more is immediately needed. The United States will continue to ensure that Israel sustains these humanitarian commitments.
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Under the leadership of the President and Secretary of State, the U.S. Department of State leads America’s foreign policy through diplomacy, advocacy, and assistance by advancing the interests of the American people, their safety and economic prosperity. On behalf of the American people we promote and demonstrate democratic values and advance a free, peaceful, and prosperous world.
The Secretary of State, appointed by the President with the advice and consent of the Senate, is the President’s chief foreign affairs adviser. The Secretary carries out the President’s foreign policies through the State Department, which includes the Foreign Service, Civil Service and U.S. Agency for International Development.
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Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Val Hoyle (OR-04)
October 22, 2024
For Immediate Release: Oct. 22, 2024
CORVALLIS, OR – On Monday, U.S. Representative Val Hoyle toured the 2 Towns Ciderhouse production facility in Corvallis and announced her support for U.S. Representative Earl Blumenauer’s Bubble Tax Modernization Act of 2024.
This bill will provide tax and carbonation parity for craft cider producers, simplify the tax code, and make craft producers more competitive within the industry at large.
“Oregon is powerhouse of innovation when it comes to craft beverages,” U.S. Representative Val Hoyle said. “I am supporting this legislation because our cider makers deserve a level playing field to create new products, grow their business, create jobs and support our local economies.”
Representative Hoyle heard from 2 Towns owners Lee Larsen, Aaron Sarnoff-Wood and Head Cider-Maker and Owner Dave Takush about the production and distribution of their ciders as well as demands from customers for fully carbonated cider products. The owners sat down with Representative Hoyle to detail how outdated, overcomplicated, and punitive tax measures mean certain cider products cannot be fully carbonated to meet customer preferences.
“It’s crucial to understand that this isn’t a tax break—it’s about removing the barriers that stifle creativity in the craft cider industry,” says Dave Takush, head cidermaker at 2 Towns Ciderhouse. “The ‘champagne’ or ‘bubble’ tax pushes hard ciders and perries into higher tax brackets when additional fruit beyond apples or pears are added, especially as carbonation levels rise. These tax implications significantly limit cidermakers’ ability to innovate and simply meet consumer demands. This bill will bring desperately needed changes to the cider industry.”
2 Towns is one of the largest craft cider producers in the nation with 130 employees and growing. The company uses 100% fresh-pressed Pacific apples in all their varieties.
Dozens of countries also gave their thoughts on NHSI’s progress so far and plans for the future. There was widespread agreement on the value of the work done in the first phase, and the direction planned for the second phase, with many topics raised for ongoing consideration.
Christer Viktorsson, Director General, Federal Authority For Nuclear Regulation (FANR), United Arab Emirates said: “It is clear this initiative is having an effect, it is already creating momentum for working towards harmonization and standardization. It’s clear that Phase II should focus on the implementation of projects from Phase I.”
Paul Fyfe from the United Kingdom’s Office For Nuclear Regulation (ONR) agreed: “Cooperation and collaboration between industry and regulators is key. The UK strongly supports Phase II. There’s a real need for this work to be done.”
Marcus Nichol Executive Director for New Nuclear from the United States’ Nuclear Energy Institute agreed: “We share your visions that you articulated for both the industry track and to facilitate the regulatory frameworks and reduce unnecessary design changes, so we appreciate that. All of the proposals for Phase II are on the right track, all of those areas will be valuable.”
Representatives from regulators and industry spoke on a range of other questions relating to safeguards; safety and security issues; information sharing with newcomer countries; confidentiality; avoiding duplication of work; collaboration between regulators, designers and operators; choosing the best priorities; and ensuring technical experts are consulted.
NHSI is now moving to the next phase, which will be to implement many of the recommendations the working groups have come up with.
Phase II will also focus on providing tools to help understand regulatory commonalities and differences better, it will examine technology-specific user requirements and explore what is needed to facilitate the approval of what is known as long-lead items.
Headline: Discovering Rome’s hidden treasures with an AI virtual assistant
On a sunny Monday morning in late September, a river of travelers flowed slowly through the Piazza della Rotonda. The focal point of the piazza is the Pantheon, the nearly 2,000- year-old temple to all the Roman gods, and is one of the city’s most popular landmarks.
Fronted by imposing rows of Corinthian columns, it merits the attention it draws. Nearly every visitor slowed down for a photo or selfie, vainly attempting to capture its perfect proportion in pixels.
Antonio Preiti, himself a citizen of Rome, was also using his smartphone in front of the Pantheon. He opened a conversation with a simple question: Is there a quiet, historic place nearby where we can have lunch?
A virtual tour guide named Julia, commissioned by the city of Rome and powered by Microsoft Azure OpenAI Service using GPT-4o, responded that the Piazza Mattei, also known as the Turtle Square, was just 15 minutes away on foot. There we would find another place typical of Rome, with layers that traverse thousands of years. Preiti and two companions set off, following Julia’s directions.
The AI virtual assistant is the brainchild of Preiti and the government of Rome, which is preparing to greet as many as 35 million extra visitors in 2025 for the celebration of the Catholic Jubilee. The name Julia was chosen, Preiti says, “because it is short, fairly common across many languages and it has a deep connection to Rome and its history. Julia is a typically Roman name: Julius Caesar’s daughter was named Giulia, Augustus’s daughter was named Giulia, and one of the oldest families in Rome had the Latin name ‘gens Julia’.”
Working with Microsoft and NTT DATA, a global provider of business and technology services, and Intellera, a consulting company in the Accenture Group, the city hopes that Julia will create a quiet revolution in how visitors experience the city. By equipping travelers with a trusted guide, the city wants to enrich their experiences beyond the typical tourist circuit, all while easing congestion around the most popular sites.
The health of our society is deeply intertwined with the health of our planet. While much of the global conversation around the environment focuses on the devastating impacts of climate change, it is crucial to recognize that climate and biodiversity are part of a broader ecological system. The loss and degradation of nature is both a result of and a contributor to climate disruption, as healthy ecosystems play a vital role in regulating the climate. Since 1970, global wildlife populations have plummeted by 70%. And in the last century, nearly 500 vertebrate species have been lost forever.
This week, leaders from around the world are gathering forCOP16, a United Nations conference in Cali, Colombia, to drive actions to reverse this trend. COP16 will focus on advancing global efforts to implement the UN Biodiversity Plan, which highlights the critical role that companies must play in building a nature-positive world.
Microsoft is committed to helping the world drive progress on the UN Biodiversity Plan. Using our technology, investment, and voice, we work to advance the protection and restoration of nature. Microsoft will be participating in COP16 to share our work and learnings, participate in high-level meetings andpanel discussions, and perhaps most importantly, listen, to explore what more we can do to tackle this critical challenge together.
Leveraging AI to Boost Biodiversity
At Microsoft, we believe we must use technology that matches the scale and complexity of the challenges we face. Given the vastness and complexity of Earth’s ecosystems, AI is emerging as an indispensable conservation tool. AI can empower us with the speed and scale necessary to analyze and better understand Earth’s biodiversity.
Technology can not only coexist with nature but help it thrive. One such example isProject Guacamaya, which combines the power of AI with satellite imagery, wildlife imagery, and acoustic data to monitor deforestation and protect biodiversity in the Amazon. Nearly five million acres of the Amazon were deforested in 2022, a21% increasefrom the previous year. Thanks to Project Guacamaya, a joint effort of theCinfonIA Research CenteratUniversidad de los Andes,Instituto SINCHI,Instituto Humboldt,Planet Labs PBCand Microsoft AI for GoodLab, AI is helping protect this tremendous natural resource.
YouTube Video
One aspect of Project Guacamaya involves using AI to identify bird and non-bird sounds in the Amazon. The project has so far analyzed more than 100,000 sounds and achieved over 80% reliability in species identification. Because AI offers real-time analysis, this tool allows researchers and conservationists to respond quickly and effectively to ecological shifts. As Zhongqi Miao, AI for Good Lab’s lead bioacoustics research scientist, noted, “By converting sounds from nature into measurable data, AI helps monitor wildlife populations and track changes in ecosystems.”
Building AI and Conservation Skills
It’s imperative that the global workforce be prepared to address the biodiversity crisis. This means training more green talent. A LinkedInstudyfound that the share of green talent in 48 evaluated countries increased by a median of 12.3% between 2022 and 2023. This is promising progress, but we must increase the momentum: the same study found that only one in eight workers around the world has at least one green skill, such as those related to solar power or electric vehicles.
We also need to ensure that our green workforce can leverage technology to advance sustainability. Applying advanced AI models in real-world conservation scenarios can be challenging due to their complexity and the need for specialized knowledge. That’s why researchers involved with Project Guacamaya releasedPytorch Wildlife, an open-source platform available on GitHub designed for creating, modifying, and sharing powerful AI conservation models.
Pytorch Wildlife’s intuitive, user-friendly interface, accessible through local installation or Hugging Face, enables users to detect and classify animals in images and videos. With an emphasis on usability and accessibility, Pytorch Wildlife can be used by individuals with limited or no technical background. It also offers a modular codebase to simplify feature expansion and further development.
Strengthening Corporate Investments in Nature
In 2020, Microsoft launched a new ecosystems and biodiversity initiative in which we pledged to protect more land than we use while leveraging our voice, tools, and investments to protect and restore ecosystems. We know that our efforts alone won’t be enough to drive the pace and scale of progress needed. When it comes to advancing biodiversity and sustainability, governments, the science community, NGOs, and the private sector all have a vital role to play.
Other Microsoft efforts to boost biodiversity in Latin America include projects to restore and protect freshwater ecosystems inSão Paulo; drive wetland restoration through on-the-ground efforts, public policy advocacy, collective action, and scientific research inChile; restore traditional wetland agriculture methods to conserveLakeXochimilcoandthe Axolotl; and protect 236,000 acres in the biodiversity hotspot ofBelize’s Maya Forest.
Our nature-based carbon removal investments, including those withMombakandBTG Pactual, are also aligned with our commitment to become carbon negative by 2030. Our agreement with BTG Pactual, which is the largest known carbon dioxide removal credit transaction to date, is part of BTG Pactual’s $1 billion reforestation and restoration strategy in Latin America.Parties interested in learning more should join us for apanel discussionwith BTG Pactual at the Bloom 24 event in Cali, Colombia, on October 25.
Through our $1 billionClimate Innovation Fund, we support innovative solutions that can provide scaled positive impact for people and the planet across our four sustainability pillars: carbon, water, waste, and ecosystem. The companies in our portfolio are pairing cutting-edge technologies and datasets with the latest in Internet of Things (IoT), machine learning, and cloud computing, to create data-driven solutions that enable better decision-making and action for natural ecosystems. Our recent investments include:
Yard Stick– a soil carbon monitoring, reporting, and verification (MRV) company that has created an innovative soil carbon IoT device, paired with data analytics and insights to measure and track soil carbon at farm scale.
Vibrant Planet– a prioritization system for land management restoration efforts.
Farmland LP– an investment management firm that buys conventional farmland and transitions it to organic farmland, utilizing regenerative agriculture practices.
Lessons for the Future
Over the last four years, we have made progress in contributing to a nature-positive world. However, our journey has not been without challenges. There is more to do and more to learn. It can be difficult for companies to invest holistically in ecosystem health because they often lack the knowledge, tools, and incentives needed to do so. Recently, we collaborated with an international team of experts to explore what is needed to overcome these challenges. In this whitepaper, we outline eight important lessons:
Build incentives to invest in ecosystem health: Establish mechanisms that recognize and reward companies for investing in nature-based solutions that improve ecosystem health and ensure local community benefits and stewardship.
Agree on science-based standards for ecosystem health: Civil society and companies need to collaborate with scientists to agree on corporate standards for characterizing how sustainability investments affect ecosystem health.
Make science accessible and build capacity to use it: All actors need to use the best available science to evaluate ecological and social risks, design projects that enhance ecosystem health, and assess it effectively.
Accept tradeoffs and work to minimize them: While not all sustainability benefits can be maximized at once, strategic planning can reduce negative impacts and optimize positive outcomes.
Innovate to derisk investment: Nature-based investments face risks from the variability of natural systems; better tools are needed to understand, insure, and manage these risks.
Expand blended finance: Combining public and private capital can reduce financial risks to private investors and attract more investment into nature-based solutions.
Invest beyond capital: While funding is vital, projects and startups also need strategic support, including expertise, long-term demand signals, and market access.
Leverage AI for scale, speed, and reliability: AI can help companies prioritize ecosystem health by enabling cheaper, more effective measurement, trade-off analysis, and risk management.
The challenges facing our ecosystems are substantial, but so too are the resources at our disposal. Our COP16 convening in Cali ahead of COP30 in Brazil next year will help bring much-needed global focus to this critical topic in a vibrant part of our planet – known for its unparalleled biodiversity and its important role in regulating climate patterns and safeguarding ecosystems globally. We are looking forward to continuing to explore ways we can collectively take action and leverage technology to protect and preserve ecosystems for generations to come.
Tags: AI, AI for Earth, AI for Good, AI for Good Labs, biodiversity, Climate Innovation Fund, Environment, Environmental Sustainability, sustainability
Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA), Jim Risch (R-ID), and 26 Republican colleagues announced their intent to introduce the Stand with Israel Act when the Senate and House reconvene in November. This legislation would cut off U.S. funding to United Nations (UN) agencies that expel, downgrade, suspend, or otherwise restrict the participation of the State of Israel.
“The United States will not stand for antisemitism at home or on the world stage,” said Dr. Cassidy. “Anyone who attempts to restrict or reduce Israel’s status at the UN should bear a heavy cost.”
“Any attempt to alter Israel’s status at the UN is clearly anti-Semitic,” said Senator Risch. “That said, if the UN member states allow the Palestinian Authority and the Palestine Liberation Organization to downgrade Israel’s status at the UN, the U.S. must stop supporting the UN system, as it would clearly be beyond repair. I am disgusted that this outrageous idea has even been discussed, and will do all I can to ensure any changes to Israel’s status will come with consequences.”
Reports indicate that the Palestinian Authority (PA) will attempt to downgrade Israel’s status at the UN. The PA is able to do this after the UN General Assembly passed a biased resolution which enhanced the PA’s status at the United Nations on May 10, 2024.
The Stand with Israel Act would cut off U.S. funding to UN agencies that expel, downgrade, suspend, or otherwise restrict the participation of the State of Israel. The bill is modeled after the current prohibition of funding to any UN entities that elevate the status of the Palestinian Authority to a member state.
Cassidy and Risch were joined by U.S. Senators Tom Cotton (R-AR), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Dan Sullivan (R-AK), Steve Daines (R-MT), Mike Lee (R-UT), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), John Barrasso (R-WY), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Eric Schmitt (R-MO), Rick Scott (R-FL), John Kennedy (R-LA), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Roger Wicker (R-MS), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Marco Rubio (R-FL), Joni Ernst (R-IA), Ron Johnson (R-WI), Markwayne Mullin (R-OK), Ted Budd (R-NC), Susan Collins (R-ME), Tim Scott (R-SC), Josh Hawley (R-MO), James Lankford (R-OK), Thom Tillis (R-NC), John Thune (R-SD), and Deb Fischer (R-NE) in introducing the legislation.
This is companion legislation to bipartisan House bill HR 9394 led by U.S. Representative Mike Lawler (R-NY-17).
Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) announced the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) will grant Louisiana airports $20,300,000.00 from the Airport Terminal Program in his Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA).
“Investing in Louisiana’s airports is key to building our economy for 2050,” said Dr. Cassidy. “This funding from the Infrastructure Law will support improvements in New Orleans, Shreveport, and Monroe.”
Grant Awarded
Recipient
Project Description
$10,800,000.00
Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport
This grant will provide federal funding for construction of a shuttle bus connector road to connect the airport’s two terminals, provide access to future multi modal infrastructure, and increase the efficient and safe movement of passengers and baggage. It also constructs a portion of the northern section of the roadway connecting the Interstate 10 flyover bridge for airport shuttles with associated utility relocation and pile foundations.
$7,000,000.00
Shreveport Regional Airport
This grant will provide federal funding for the relocation and reconstruction of an FAA-operated Air Traffic Control Tower to correct line of sight issues and construction of the access road, associated utilities, and site preparation for tower relocation.
$2,500,000.00
Monroe Regional Airport
This grant will provide federal funding for the replacement and installation of two existing passenger boarding bridges, which will increase ADA accessibility, energy efficiency, and accommodate the larger aircraft.
Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley
WASHINGTON – Sens. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Jim Risch (R-Idaho) and 26 Senate Republican colleagues will introduce legislation to support Israel’s membership status in the United Nations (UN). The Stand with Israel Act would cut off U.S. funding to UN agencies that expel, downgrade, suspend or otherwise restrict Israel’s participation in the international organization. The senators will introduce the bill when Congress reconvenes in November. Rep. Mike Lawler (R-N.Y.) is leading companion legislation in the House of Representatives.
“As the historic homeland of the Jewish people, the only democracy in the Middle East and a cherished ally of the United States, Israel’s membership status in the UN shouldn’t be up for debate,” said Grassley. “The United States is the UN’s largest financial backer; any antisemitic attempt to downgrade Israel’s status ought to be met with severe and immediate consequences by cutting off U.S. funding.”
“Any attempt to alter Israel’s status at the UN is clearly anti-Semitic,” saidRisch. “That said, if the UN member states allow the Palestinian Authority and the Palestine Liberation Organization to downgrade Israel’s status at the UN, the U.S. must stop supporting the UN system, as it would clearly be beyond repair. I am disgusted that this outrageous idea has even been discussed, and will do all I can to ensure any changes to Israel’s status will come with consequences.”
Grassley and Risch are joined by Sens. Tom Cotton (R-Ark.), Bill Cassidy (R-La.), Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Mike Lee (R-Utah), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Eric Schmitt (R-Mo.), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), John Kennedy (R-La.), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Ron Johnson (R-Wisc.), Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Ted Budd (R-N.C.), Susan Collins (R-Maine), Tim Scott (R-S.C.), Josh Hawley (R-Mo.), James Lankford (R-Okla.), John Thune (R-S.D.) and Deb Fischer (R-Neb.).
Download bill text HERE.
Background:
Recent reports indicate the Palestinian Authority (PA) will attempt to downgrade Israel’s status at the UN. The effort comes after the UN upgraded the PA’s status in May, granting them enhanced rights and privileges.
Grassley has additionally condemned the UN for its inaction regarding Hamas’ sexual violence against Israeli women and its consideration of a PA resolution to strip Israel’s right to self defense. Learn more about Grassley’s work to support Israel HERE.
Today, National Indigenous Collaborative Housing Incorporated (NICHI) Chief Executive Officer John Gordon and Minister of Indigenous Services and Minister responsible for FedNor, Patty Hajdu, announced the recipients of NICHI’s expression of need process to address the critical need for safe and affordable urban, rural and northern Indigenous housing projects in Atlantic Canada.
October 23, 2024 — Halifax Regional Municipality, Traditional Unceded Mi’kmaw Territory, Nova Scotia — Indigenous Services Canada
Today, National Indigenous Collaborative Housing Incorporated (NICHI) Chief Executive Officer John Gordon and Minister of Indigenous Services and Minister responsible for FedNor, Patty Hajdu, announced the recipients of NICHI’s expression of need process to address the critical need for safe and affordable urban, rural and northern Indigenous housing projects in Atlantic Canada.
Today’s announcement includes more than $33.5 million in funding for 6 projects in Atlantic Canada led by:
Wenjikwom Housing Commission Soc
Tawaak Housing Association (2 projects)
Native Council of PEI
Happy Valley-Goose Bay
Ksalsuti Wellness Resources
Through the national process, $277.8 million out of a total funding amount of $281.5 million is being distributed to 75 projects across the country aimed at building more than 3800 units. This funding was provided to Indigenous Services Canada through Budget 2022 and was distributed by NICHI, applying its “For Indigenous, By Indigenous” approach. NICHI brings together Indigenous-led housing, homelessness, and housing-related service delivery organizations to provide lasting solutions that address diverse housing inadequacies, including homelessness for Indigenous Peoples living in urban, rural and northern areas.
Over 171,000 Indigenous Peoples in urban, rural and northern areas off reserve are in core housing need according to the 2021 Census. Indigenous Peoples continue to experience core housing needs at a significantly higher rate than non-Indigenous people—with the gap between them being exacerbated by the housing and homelessness crisis and by inadequacies in distinctions-based funding.
Through a For Indigenous, By Indigenous approach to Indigenous housing that recognizes Indigenous organizations are best placed to understand the needs of their communities, Indigenous Services Canada is striving to close this gap by 2030.
Access to safe and affordable housing is critical to improving health and social outcomes and to ensure a better future for Indigenous communities. This funding initiative is part of the Government of Canada’s commitment to address the social determinants of health and advance self-determination in alignment with the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Articles 21 and 23.
Quotes
“Indigenous housing providers deserve Indigenous advocacy at the national level. By securing this investment and developing a For Indigenous, By Indigenous funding process, NICHI is putting Indigenous people back in charge of housing policy for our people and communities. The overwhelming expression of need we received in our application process—totalling $2 billion across 447 applications—demonstrates that the work is far from over—but today, we’re excited to announce funding that will make a positive impact in the lives of Indigenous peoples in Atlantic Canada.”
John Gordon Chief Executive Officer, National Indigenous Collaborative Housing Incorporated
“In true partnership with Indigenous Peoples, we are getting more homes built, faster. Communities know best what they need, which is why these projects follow a By Indigenous, For Indigenous approach. We will always be there for communities as they take the lead to build homes; it’s a matter of fairness.”
The Honourable Patty Hajdu Minister of Indigenous Services
“NICHI’s remarkable achievement in swiftly delivering $277.8 million underscores its unwavering commitment to advancing Indigenous housing nationwide. As a new organization, NICHI’s expedient action demonstrates unparalleled dedication and catalytic impact in transforming community housing landscapes. We commend NICHI for its pivotal role in driving forward this transformative initiative.”
Lisa Ker Acting Executive Director for the Community Housing Transformation Centre
“With thousands of years of collective experience, urban, rural, and northern Indigenous housing providers have the capacity, know-how, and shovel-ready projects to address the challenge. NICHI has shown that it can deliver funding programs swiftly, fairly, and responsibly.”
Margaret Pfoh President, Canadian Housing and Renewal Association
Quick facts
On June 8, 2023, the Government of Canada announced that the National Indigenous Collaborative Housing Inc. (NICHI) would deliver $281.5 million in immediate funding over two years to address the urgent, unmet needs of Indigenous Peoples living in urban, rural and northern areas.
NICHI held its expression of need process from late November 2023 to January 12, 2024, and funding was allocated to 75 non-profit, Indigenous-led housing organizations by an objective, unbiased Project Selection Advisory Council, which prioritized urgent and unmet housing need in Indigenous communities across the country. Currently, $3.7 million of the total funding amount remains to be allocated.
The National Indigenous Collaborative Housing Inc. (NICHI) is an Indigenous-led national housing organization working to ensure that all Indigenous people across Canada have access to supports and services that provide safe, affordable, secure and dignified housing.
Support for projects will include funding for acquisitions of new properties and buildings, construction of new facilities, repairs and renovations, housing-related training, growing organizational capacity and administration costs.
Associated links
Contacts
For more information, media may contact:
Jennifer Kozelj Press Secretary Office of the Honourable Patty Hajdu Minister of Indigenous Services and Minister responsible for FedNor Jennifer.Kozelj@sac-isc.gc.ca
Headline: Readout of Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. CQ Brown, Jr.’s Meeting with Canada’s Chief of the Defence Staff Gen. Jennie Carignan
Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. CQ Brown, Jr., met with Canada’s Chief of the Defence Staff Gen. Jennie Carignan yesterday at the Pentagon. Gen. Brown and Gen. Carignan reiterated that the defense of North America remains the No. 1 priority for both militaries. The leaders also discussed opportunities for further coordination.
UConn associate Professor Thanh Nguyen’s microneedle patch technology is helping to eradicate serious diseases throughout the world. He has a significant backer in his groundbreaking research: The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, which has awarded a series of grants totaling $6.6 million.
Nguyen, an associate professor in the College of Engineering’s School of Mechanical, Aerospace, and Manufacturing Engineering, is one of UConn’s leading research fundraisers. His work has garnered significant awards from the National Institutes of Health (NIH), US Department of Agriculture (USDA) and now the Gates Foundation.
The funding supports Nguyen’s research and innovation on a microneedle array patch capable of delivering multiple human vaccines at once. The Gates Foundation initially awarded $2 million. Following early success on the project, funding increased by $600,000 to support the development of a scale-up manufacturing technology capable of producing many patches per day on an industrial scale. His microneedle method is far less painful than traditional syringe delivery, absorbing the vaccines through the skin as opposed to injecting directly into the body.
Funding has more than doubled since the initial award. In late September, the Gates Foundation awarded Nguyen another $4 million to take the patch a step farther as a pentavalent and Polio vaccine that addresses six diseases or viruses at once: diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, HIV, Hepatitis B, and especially, Polio.
Once almost eradicated, Polio continues to affect populations in developing countries, with the most cases reported in Afghanistan and neighboring Pakistan. Nguyen hopes the microneedle patch will make new progress in the effort to eliminate the threat of polio once and for all.
Now with $6.6 million in Gates Foundation funding, Nguyen and his laboratory can build up productivity. He is partnering with LTS, one of the world’s leading manufacturers of microneedle systems, to significantly scale up production on the patches. Concurrently, he is expanding the size of the laboratory, creating opportunities with UConn students to explore vaccine science.
The award also surpasses a milestone in fundraising for Nguyen and UConn. Through the Gates Foundation, National Institutes of Health (NIH), USDA, and others, Nguyen has now earned more than $25 million in research awards.
“That kind of funding doesn’t come naturally,” says Nguyen. “It comes from the recognition of the high impact of the research and the lab’s success in publishing articles. It is a testament to the importance of what we are doing.”
Nguyen’s research expands on other research into microneedle patch capabilities. Also in late September of 2024, he received an NIH RO1 grant to test the effectiveness of anti-HIV patches in small and large mammals, with the eventual goal of vaccinating infant humans who breastfeed from infected mothers.
Research is not limited to vaccine delivery. Nguyen won a second RO1 grant for a project investigating acceleration of healing defects to the largest bones in the body, such as the femur and tibia. The team is working to minimize the dangers of cell stimulation through the application of biomaterials as an electrically active scaffold over a defect.
Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)
COLUMBIA, S.C. —Daisean Montez Skeeters, 30, of Columbia, has pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm.
Evidence obtained in the investigation revealed that on July 17, 2024, Columbia Police Department officers responded to a domestic violence call at Skeeters’ home. After arriving, police learned there might be firearms in the home. Because Skeeters was already on federal supervised release for a previous federal firearms conviction, agents also spoke to his U.S. Probation Officer, who said he was also advised of firearms in the home. Agents obtained a search warrant for the residence and located two firearms, including one loaded with 16 rounds of ammunition. Agents obtained a second search warrant for Skeeters’ DNA to compare to swabs taken from those firearms. DNA testing confirmed an extremely high probability that Skeeters’ DNA was present on one of the firearms. Skeeters entered a guilty plea to possessing that firearm as a convicted felon.
Skeeters was already on federal supervised release following a previous conviction for being a felon in possession of a firearm and faces a separate penalty for violating the terms of that release.
According to a sentencing memorandum filed by the Government in his prior case (3:19-CR-992), Skeeters has a history of leading a street gang that was responsible for a substantial disruption of local communities to include through gun violence, organized drug distribution, and fraud schemes.
Skeeters faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in federal prison. He also faces a fine of up to $250,000, and three years of supervision to follow the term of imprisonment. United States District Judge Mary Geiger Lewis accepted the guilty plea and will sentence Skeeters after receiving and reviewing a sentencing report prepared by the U.S. Probation Office.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Columbia Police Department with forensic assistance from the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED). Assistant U.S. Attorney Elliott B. Daniels and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew R. Sanford are prosecuting the case.
Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)
Louisville, KY – A federal grand jury in Louisville, Kentucky, returned an indictment on October 16, 2024, charging a local man with illegal possession of a machine gun.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge R. Shawn Morrow of the ATF Louisville Field Division, and Chief Paul Humphrey of the Louisville Metro Police Department made the announcement.
According to the indictment, Dashawn Sublett, 18, was charged with possessing a Glock Switch Device (machine gun conversion device) on June 26, 2024. A Glock Switch device allows a semi-automatic handgun to function as an automatic and is defined as a machine gun under federal law.
Sublett made an initial court appearance before a U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Western District of Kentucky on October 21, 2024. If convicted, he faces a maximum sentence of ten years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors.
There is no parole in the federal system.
This case is being investigated by the LMPD and the ATF.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua R. Porter is prosecuting this case.
This case is part of the Prohibited Firearm Possessor Initiative (PFP), a collaborative partnership between all levels of law enforcement and prosecutors to reduce violent crime and firearm offenses. On January 23, 2024, Louisville Metro initiated a gun crime reduction initiative focused on investigating and prosecuting illegal firearm possession. The PFP partners include the Louisville Metro Police Department, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Jefferson County Attorney’s Office, the Jefferson County Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office, the Kentucky Attorney General’s Office, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Kentucky.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Source: International Marine Contractors Association – IMCA
Headline: The Million Baht Adventure: A Journey of Purpose and Adventure
Published on 23 October 2024
Darren Brunton – IMCA Asia Pacific Regional Committee Chairman and IMCA Diving Division Committee Member – will soon embark on the Million Baht Phang Nga Bay Adventure: a gruelling 350km challenge that aims to raise one million Baht for the children of the Banya Literary Centre in Thailand.
To learn more about the Million Baht Phang Nga Bay Adventure and how you can support the team and their cause, click here:
Along with other adventurers, Darren – a long-time Singapore resident and passionate advocate for the Banya Literary Centre – has been training hard in preparation for the six-day event, drawing on his experience as a former UK military serviceman and commercial diver.
Now the Managing Director of KB Associates Pte Ltd and KBA Training Centre Pte – IMCA Member companies in the training and diving / safety consultancy arena – Darren told Making Waves that he is driven by the opportunity to raise money for a worthy cause, improve his own fitness, and share his experience with his teammates as they tackle this demanding adventure together.
You can follow their progress, cheer them on, and most importantly, get involved, whether by donating, participating in their auction coming in November, or simply spreading the word. Every bit of support will help them move closer to their goal of raising one million Baht.
The Challenge and the Cause
The adventure itself is as thrilling as it is purposeful. From 26 November to 1 December this year, the team will cover the 350km distance by foot, bicycle, and kayak. They will face the physical and mental challenge of pushing their limits while raising money to fund essential resources for the children of the Banya Literacy Centre:
Daily Meals: Ensuring that the children receive two meals-a-day for at least a year. Currently, the children are only receiving three meals a week.
A School Bus: Providing the children with safe and reliable transport to and from the school.
The adventure is entirely self-funded, meaning that the team are all paying their own expenses to join the adventure and that every donation will go directly to these children, helping to provide essential support that many of us take for granted.
The expedition follows a similar fundraising effort in January – the Million Baht Swim – in which a team of Phuket based expats completed a 122km lap of Phuket Island, and together, with the support of the community, raised 1.1 million Baht for the school.
Several IMCA Members and individuals from the IMCA network have already contributed to help reach the target. To find out how you can support the team’s fundraising,click here.
Alberta’s government is proudly building the Alberta Recovery Model, a system of care that helps people overcome the disease of addiction and supports them in their pursuit of recovery. The province is focused on expanding services that offer prevention, intervention, treatment and recovery. Increased capacity and reduced barriers remain a top priority, which is why Alberta is building 11 recovery communities. The Lethbridge Recovery Community opened one year ago and has provided more than 110 Albertans with long-term addiction treatment.
Construction on the Lethbridge Recovery Community began in spring 2022. The 50-bed facility had a total capital investment of $19 million and opened its doors in September 2023. Clients of the recovery community receive life-saving addiction treatment at no cost and can stay for up to one year if their situation requires. The average length of stay at the Lethbridge Recovery Community is about four months.
“The Lethbridge Recovery Community is a place of hope and healing. It stands as an example of our government’s focus on long-term wellness and recovery. With the Alberta Recovery Model, we are helping people overcome the disease of addiction, rebuild their lives and reconnect with their family, community and culture.”
“We refuse to give up on Albertans suffering from addiction, and we refuse to give up on our communities. Recovery is possible, and facilities like this are making that clear. I am proud to have this treatment centre in our community and am excited about the impact it has had and will continue to bring.”
At each of the recovery communities the province has built or will build, residential treatment focuses on mental health and wellbeing, individual and group therapy, development of healthy habits and social skills, employment training and other supports that put people on a pathway of success. These programs help Albertans become healthy members of society.
The Lethbridge Recovery Community is operated by Fresh Start Recovery and serves men 18 years of age or older. Their next-door facility supports women in their pursuit of recovery as well.
“Over this past year, we’ve seen lives change. These personal journeys reflect a shared dedication to holistic recovery and creating a stronger, more resilient community. With the support of the Government of Alberta and community partners, this shared effort has been proven to bring people together and build real pathways of hope.”
Three recovery communities are currently operational in Red Deer, Lethbridge and Gunn. Eight more are in progress or under construction. Five of these are in partnership with Indigenous communities: Blood Tribe, Siksika Nation, Tsuut’ina Nation, Enoch Cree Nation and the Métis Nation within Alberta. Calgary, Grande Prairie and Edmonton will also be home to recovery communities.
“I’m coming to see that entering treatment is only the start. With the support of the staff and the community here, I’m beginning to face my past and make real changes. Recovery is giving me the tools I need for this journey, and I’m genuinely excited to keep growing and moving forward with their help.”
“The recovery community changed my life. From the moment I entered treatment, I found a supportive environment that felt like home. I return for weekly alumni and milestone meetings, welcoming new members. Whenever I need to reconnect, I know I can return, confident that support is always available, and I no longer feel alone.”
Alberta’s government is making record investments and removing barriers to recovery-oriented supports for all Albertans regardless of where they live or their financial situation. In addition to adding more than 10,000 publicly funded addiction treatment spaces, the province has expanded access to the Virtual Opioid Dependency Program, which provides same-day access to life-saving treatment medication.
Quick facts:
Albertans struggling with opioid addiction can contact the Virtual Opioid Dependency Program (VODP) by calling 1-844-383-7688, seven days a week, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. VODP provides same-day access to addiction medicine specialists. There is no wait list.
Related information
Alberta Recovery Model
Recovery communities
Related news
Opening doors to recovery in southern Alberta (Sept. 21, 2023)
TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly announced today that the U.S. Department of Transportation (U.S. DOT) has awarded the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) a nearly $98 million Infrastructure for Rebuilding America (INFRA) grant to improve the I-35 and Santa Fe Street corridor in Olathe.
“This announcement is a win for Kansas and everyone who travels I-35 through Olathe,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “This project represents my administration’s work to modernize and strengthen the infrastructure and transportation links that support commerce and economic growth across the state.”
The I-35 Santa Fe Forward project, which targets one of the region’s most congested corridors, seeks to eliminate bottlenecks at two interchanges: Santa Fe Street and Old Highway 56, address access management issues on Santa Fe Street, replace aging infrastructure, and provide multimodal access across I-35 to connect communities on both sides of the interstate. Currently, the crash rate on I-35 surrounding the Santa Fe interchange is more than two and half times the state’s average, with nearly half of all crashes consisting of rear-end crashes at lower rates of speed.
INFRA, funded through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, is a competitive grant program supporting multimodal freight and highway projects of national or regional significance to improve the safety, efficiency, and reliability of transportation for freight and people in and across rural and urban areas. The grant application was submitted by KDOT in partnership with the City of Olathe.
Governor Kelly sent letters to the U.S. Department of Transportation in support of this project.
“Since coming to Congress, I’ve made it a priority to advocate for our community’s local infrastructure needs,” said Representative Sharice Davids, KS-03. “That’s why I voted for the bipartisan infrastructure law. This law creates good-paying jobs, strengthens our supply chains, helps lower costs, and will make our roads more efficient and dependable. I’m thrilled to see these funds coming to Kansas with the I-35 Santa Fe Forward project and investing in improvements that our region will see for generations.”
“We are grateful to our federal and local partners who have been working with KDOT to move this project forward,” Secretary of Transportation Calvin Reed said. “With this funding, we can tackle important infrastructure improvements that will enhance efficiency and connectivity, providing smoother travel for residents and businesses across the region.”
Construction on the I-35 and Santa Fe Street corridor between Ridgeview Road and Mur-Len Road is scheduled to begin in late 2026 with a total project cost of nearly $278 million. The City of Olathe is contributing $40 million. KDOT will contribute $140 million through the Eisenhower Legacy Transportation (IKE) Program, a 10-year program that addresses highways, bridges, public transit, aviation, short-line rail, and bike/pedestrian needs across Kansas.
“The new I-35 and Santa Fe interchange wouldn’t be possible without the partnership of KDOT and the leadership shown by our congressional delegation, including Sen. Jerry Moran, Sen. Roger Marshall, and Rep. Sharice Davids,” Olathe Mayor John Bacon said. “We are grateful for the support of our partners and for their understanding of just how important this project is to Olathe and to the region.”
More information on the KDOT IKE Program can be found here: https://ike.ksdot.gov/.
For additional details on the U.S. DOT Infrastructure for Rebuilding America Program, visit https://www.transportation.gov/grants/infra-grant-program.
Headline: North Carolina Celebrates National Disability Employment Awareness Month; Hosts Virtual Educational Events
North Carolina Celebrates National Disability Employment Awareness Month; Hosts Virtual Educational Events hejones1
The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services invites media to two virtual events being presented in honor of National Disability Employment Awareness Month.
In an ongoing effort to encourage increased awareness, understanding and recognition of the many contributions made by employees with disabilities, Governor Roy Cooper has proclaimed October 2024 Disability Employment Awareness Month. This year’s NDEAM official theme is Access to Good Jobs for All, which echoes the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services’ continued commitment to building a strong and inclusive workforce across North Carolina.
“NDEAM is a great opportunity to highlight the contributions people with disabilities are making in the workplace across this state as we continue our ongoing commitment to one of North Carolina’s most underserved populations: people with disabilities,” said Susan Osborne, NCDHHS Deputy Secretary for Opportunity and Well-Being. “We are dedicated to providing people with disabilities the supports and services they need to secure fulfilling work and achieve independence.”
National Disability Employment Awareness Month serves to educate employers and the public about disability employment opportunities and to honor the contributions, skills and talents of America’s workers with disabilities — a purpose shared by NCDHHS. NDEAM is also a time for celebrating the disability-inclusive employers across North Carolina whose commitment to diverse hiring practices is demonstrated every day as they continue to enhance their workforce by hiring people with disabilities. For information on what you can do to advance access during NDEAM, you can also visit the NC Department of Labor’s National Disability Employment Awareness Month website.
What: Live webinar hosted by the NCDHHS Division of Employment and Independence for People with Disabilities to shine a spotlight on employer partners who will explain how EIPD’s no-cost services helped them build a diverse and disability-inclusive workforce and grow their business
When: Friday, Oct. 25. 2024 11 a.m.-noon
Register: To register in advance for this event go to https://cutt.ly/EmbracingDiversity.
American Sign Language interpretation and live captioning will be provided.
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What: Live webinar hosted by the NCDHHS Division of Services for the Blind to highlight the power of collaboration by highlighting its partnership with the ABLR Customized Training Program
When: Friday, Oct. 31. 2024 11 a.m.-noon
Register: To register in advance for this event go to https://cutt.ly/DSB-NDEAM.
Source: Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe – OSCE
Headline: Protecting public spaces and critical infrastructure from terrorist attacks focus of OSCE workshop in North Macedonia
Protecting public spaces and critical infrastructure from terrorist attacks focus of OSCE workshop in North Macedonia | OSCE
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Source: Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe – OSCE
Headline: OSCE Presence in Albania organizes 10th annual Media Development Forum
Representatives from media, public institutions, academics, and civil society gather at the OSCE Presence in Albania’s 10th annual Media Development Forum, Tirana, 23 October 2024. (OSCE) Photo details
Representatives from local media, public institutions, academics, and civil society gathered at the OSCE Presence in Albania’s 10th annual Media Development Forum, a key event focused on the future of media freedom and integrity in the country.
Ambassador Michel Tarran, Head of the OSCE Presence in Albania, opened the forum with a commitment to fostering a structured dialogue between Albania’s institutions and its media sector. He said: “Building on last year’s discussions, the OSCE Presence is willing and remains committed to supporting the structured dialogue between Albania’s institutions and its media sector. For this purpose, we avail not only the resources we have at disposal at the OSCE Presence in Albania but also from the broader set of OSCE institutions that are specialized in democratization and media affairs. We believe that this dialogue will foster a more collaborative environment where public officials and media professionals can work together to strengthen press freedom and find solutions that work in the Albanian context.”
Opening remarks were also delivered by Ambassador Silvio Gonzato, Head of the Delegation of the European Union in Albania, and Philippe Tremblay, Director of the Office of the OSCE’s Representative on Freedom of the Media, through a video address.
The forum facilitated discussions on the intersection of media policy and journalist safety, highlighting the importance of aligning with European standards while exploring how to enhance protections for journalists. Participants emphasized the need for continued reforms to strengthen the media landscape and ongoing efforts to further communication between the media and government institutions.
Another key focus was the current state of media ownership in Albania and its impact on journalistic independence. The increasing concentration of media ownership raised concerns about the impartiality of information that the public receives, with discussions centred on strategies to promote transparency and media pluralism.
The relationship between the media and the judiciary was another relevant and intertwining topic. Participants explored ways to improve communication and collaboration between journalists and judicial authorities, aiming to foster a more supportive environment for accurate reporting.
By bringing together diverse stakeholders, the Media Development Forum aimed to enhance cooperation among public institutions, media organizations, and civil society, ultimately working towards a more vibrant and secure media environment in Albania.