NewzIntel.com

Category: AM-NC

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Kelly Announces Evergy to Invest More than $2B in Two New High-efficiency Natural Gas Plants – Governor of the State of Kansas

    Source: US State of Kansas

    HUTCHINSON – Governor Laura Kelly joined Evergy executives and legislative leaders today to announce that the company will invest more than $2 billion in building two new 705 megawatt (MW) combined-cycle natural gas plants in Kansas. Together, the new projects will provide more than 1,400 MW of dispatchable power.

    “Kansas is experiencing record economic growth, and Evergy is prepared to deliver the reliable, affordable, and sustainable energy needed.” Governor Laura Kelly said. “Evergy’s multi-billion-dollar investment brings direct value to the Hutchinson and Sumner County areas in jobs and tax dollars. It also ensures Kansas can continue to invite business growth that benefits the entire state.”

    The plant in Sumner County is expected to begin providing electricity in 2029, and the plant in Reno County is expected to be in service in 2030.

    “High-efficiency, modern natural gas plants will meet the electricity needs for our region’s growing economy. These plants also will bring good paying jobs and tax dollars to Kansas,” said David Campbell, Evergy chairman, president and chief executive officer. “Dispatchable natural gas is an important resource within Evergy’s growing and diverse energy portfolio, complementing our planned investment in wind and solar resources and supporting our commitment to affordable, reliable, and sustainable electricity.”

    During construction, more than 500 jobs are anticipated for each plant. After a 10-year exemption, each plant will provide more than $500 million in property tax revenues over its service life and will bring to the communities 20 to 40 skilled craft jobs that pay more than $90,000 annually.

    Since 2019, the Kelly administration has created 1,284 committed economic development projects worth more than $19.9 billion in capital investment and nearly 69,000 jobs.

    This spring, Governor Kelly signed House Bill 2527, a bipartisan bill that enhances Kansas policies to incentivize electric infrastructure investment, which is critical to ensuring Kansas has the infrastructure needed to meet the energy needs of Kansas citizens and businesses. This legislation makes Kansas more competitive for investment, increases opportunities for economic development, and ultimately saves Kansas ratepayers money on their electric bills.

    “We are pleased that a legislative policy we championed is helping ensure a strong energy future for the state of Kansas,” Speaker of the House Dan Hawkins said. “I look forward to seeing the benefits this brings in terms of jobs, economic growth, and energy security for our state for years to come.”

    “Kansans depend on reliable electricity each and every day to power their lives and their businesses,” Senate President Ty Masterson said. “These investments by a long-time Kansas energy company will make our state even more attractive to those wanting to live, work, and grow a business in our great state.”

    Photos from today’s announcement for media use are available below.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Landmarks Lit Celebrating New York Liberty’s WNBA Finals Win

    Source: US State of New York

    Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that New York State landmarks will be lit seafoam green and white on Oct. 21, 2024 to celebrate the New York Liberty winning the Women’s National Basketball Association championship. The Liberty defeated the Minnesota Lynx in Game 5 of a best-of-five series to claim the team’s first title in its 28-year history.

    “New York is a great sports state, and last night’s game not only earned the Liberty their first championship title, but also a championship title for the State of New York,” Governor Hochul said. “The thrill and anticipation, and the nail-biting victory created an electric night for all New Yorkers, and I am incredibly proud of each of the Liberty’s players as we continue to celebrate their well-deserved win.”

    The landmarks that will be lit in celebration include:

    • Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge
    • Kosciuszko Bridge
    • The H. Carl McCall SUNY Building
    • State Education Building
    • Alfred E. Smith State Office Building
    • One World Trade Center
    • Empire State Plaza
    • Niagara Falls
    • The “Franklin D. Roosevelt” Mid-Hudson Bridge
    • Albany International Airport Gateway
    • MTA LIRR – East End Gateway at Penn Station
    • Fairport Lift Bridge over the Erie Canal
    • Moynihan Train Hall
    • Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park

    New York Liberty claimed its first WNBA championship title at home in Brooklyn’s Barclays Center on Oct. 20, 2024 during its 19th playoff appearance in franchise history. The Minnesota Lynx led by two points in the waning seconds of Game 5, but with 5.2 seconds left, a shooting foul called on Alanna Smith of the Lynx led to two successful free throw attempts by the Liberty’s all-WNBA and two-time MVP forward Breanna Stewart, tying the game at 60. In overtime, the New York Liberty came out on top, sealing their championship run with a 67-62 win over the Lynx in a winner-take-all Game 5.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: New Zealanders want publicly-owned rail ferries!

    Source: Maritime Union of New Zealand

    New polling released on 15 October by the Maritime Union of New Zealand (MUNZ) shows the public wants publicly owned, rail enabled ferries.

    The poll was conducted by Talbot Mills over the period of 2-14 October and asked:

    New ferry options

    As you may be aware, in relation to the Cook Strait ferries, “rail-enabled” means freight carriages can roll onto and off of the ferry directly rather than requiring unloading and reloading onto trucks as additional handling steps on each side of Cook Strait. The efficiency gains of being “rail enabled” is thought to add 10-20% to the overall cost to the ferries/infrastructure. The government is now considering three possible options for new ferries. Which of the following options is closest to the one you would support? 

    Results showed a clear public preference:

    Maritime Union spokesperson Victor Billot says “This shows that New Zealanders can see the terrible mistake the Minister has made in cancelling the new rail ferries and that is only going to get more obvious as the massive costs of this fiasco, like the cancellation fee of up to a half a billion dollars, come to light.

    “Rail enabled and publicly owned ferries are vital to New Zealand’s domestic freight. No rail ferries would likely mean no viable rail system, and privatising would be like putting a toll booth on the strait and sending the revenue overseas.

    “Unions want rail-enabled ferries, so do logistics companies including Mainfreight, New Zealand First has just said they want them, and now it’s clear the people of New Zealand want them too. The question is why is the Finance Minister so intent on forcing New Zealanders into a bad deal that nobody wants?”

    Road-bridging – the practice of taking containers from trains and transporting them onto non-rail ferries adds up to $200 per container cost and takes up to three hours more per sailing. Industry experts have noted this additional cost would price rail out of the north/south freight market.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Appointments – GUARDIANS OF NEW ZEALAND SUPERANNUATION APPOINTS CO-CIOS

    Source: Guardians of New Zealand Superannuation

    The Guardians of New Zealand Superannuation, manager of the New Zealand Superannuation Fund, has appointed Brad Dunstan and Will Goodwin as joint Chief Investment Officers, effective 2 December 2024.

    The announcement follows a global search to replace former CIO Stephen Gilmore, who left the Guardians at the end of June.

    Guardians CEO Jo Townsend said Mr Gilmore’s departure had created an opportunity for the Guardians to review the way the investment team was structured.

    “Taking into account the projected future growth of the Fund and the increasingly complex and challenging investment environment in which we are operating, it makes sense to combine the functions of the CIO and the GM Portfolio Completion and create a co-CIO model,” Ms Townsend said.

    Mr Dunstan and Mr Goodwin, currently the Guardians’ Acting GM Portfolio Completion and Head of Direct Investments respectively, have both been with the Guardians for several years.

    Ms Townsend said the two men’s broad experience had been a tremendous asset to the Guardians’ management of the Super Fund, and the new structure would enable the Guardians to get the very best out of their complementary skills and expertise.

    Alex Bacchus will continue as Acting CIO until the new structure is implemented.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Local News – WELLfed’s home gets upgrade – Porirua

    Source: Porirua City Council

    A building in Cannons Creek that is home to one of Porirua’s well-known charities has received a welcome facelift.
    WELLfed, an adult education programme where people learn valuable cooking skills, has been operating out of a Porirua City Council-owned building on Hampshire St since 2019.
    Recently the building received some much-needed TLC, including a full reclad, new windows and a sparkling paint job. Asbestos was removed as part of the upgrade.
    Aligning with Council’s kaupapa to reduce, reuse and recycle, contracting team James Henry Ltd was able to salvage some of the matai weatherboards removed from the building to make into chopping boards for use in the WELLfed kitchen – you can’t get more circular than that!
    Porirua Mayor Anita Baker says it is fantastic to see a Council facility get an upgrade, especially one that will enable such a popular community organisation to carry on their good work.
    “This is fantastic news, because many of us have seen first-hand the incredible job WELLfed does in Porirua – they’re not about a hand-out, but a hand-up, so having them operate in a building in good condition is important.
    “WELLfed is a shining example of the community spirit that is alive and well in our city and they inspire with their vision and impact, so I’m hugely pleased they have a nice building to get on with what they do.”
    WELLfed is a free adult education programme that teaches valuable cooking skills and more. They focus on teaching how to plan, shop for, and cook affordable healthy meals, emphasising the use of fresh, seasonal fruits and vegetables. You can learn about their mahi at http://www.wellfed.kiwi

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Local News – Cemeteries Week shines a light on our history and heritage

    Source: Porirua City Council

    Porirua’s annual Cemeteries Week begins 26 October, offering insights into our city’s history and heritage.
    You can take guided walks, at Pāuatahanui Burial Ground, St Alban’s Church, St Joseph’s Church (Pāuatahanui), and Porirua Cemetery on Kenepuru Drive, shedding light on some notable stories in our city’s past. There’s also the chance to pull back the curtain a little with a tour of the Crematorium at Whenua Tapu.
    The guided walks and crematorium tour are all free and also form part of the Wellington Heritage Festival, which has events right across the region.
    “There are wonderful and incredibly interesting stories to be told, right here in our back yard,” Porirua Mayor Anita Baker says.
    “I love the talks that our local historians give, because understanding what has gone on in Porirua’s past can give us an understanding of where we are today. Our cemeteries and urupa have key people buried there who make up our rich and varied heritage.
    “It’s fascinating and colourful and I thank all of those for giving their time to make Cemeteries Week happen – you can stroll through these picturesque places, learning and reflecting on our past.”
    Local iwi, war veterans and settlers who helped forge the city are buried in the older cemeteries, giving historians plenty of opportunities to bring Porirua’s history to new audiences.
    Along with QR codes near the graves of war veterans, Porirua Cemetery also recently had new signage put in, with a map, information, history and a guide to finding loved ones buried there.
    In Porirua, the Cemeteries Week and Heritage Festival events are:
    26 October, 2pm – Whenua Tapu crematorium open day, with cemeteries manager Daniel Chrisp
    2 November, 11am – Porirua Cemetery, Fragments of Time guided walk, with historian Allan Dodson
    9 November, 2pm – St Joseph’s Church talk, Robert McClean
    10 November, 10am – Pāuatahanui Burial Grounds guided walk.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Candy leaf has Potential beyond its Natural Sweetening properties

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 21 OCT 2024 4:07PM by PIB Delhi

    Candy Leaf (Stevia rebaudiana (Bertoni) Bertoni) a plant recognized for its natural non-caloric sweetening characteristics, also has therapeutic properties for diseases like endocrine, metabolic, immune, and cardiovascular diseases, because of its effect on cellular signalling systems according to a new study.

    Assam exports Stevia worldwide. The North Eastern Council (Government of India) also highlighted stevia cultivation’s potential to help the northeast Indian economy due to high demand and use.

    At the Institute of Advanced Study in Science and Technology (IASST) in Guwahati, an autonomous institute of Department of Science and Technology, a team of researchers Dr. Asis Bala, Associate. Professor, Prof. Ashis K. Mukherjee, Director, and Ms. Piyali Devroy, Research Scholar did pioneering research on Stevia’s medicinal properties, effects on cellular signalling mechanisms to prove the Assam’s Stevia’s therapeutic qualities.

    Their multimodal strategy integrated network pharmacology with in vitro and in vivo techniques, showing that the plant used phosphorylation of Protein Kinase C (PKC) to inhibit a crucial cellular signalling route.

    PKC is connected to inflammatory, autoimmune, endocrine, and cardiovascular illnesses. Stevia suppresses PKC phosphorylation, which alters downstream pathways that cause inflammation, a significant cause of endocrine metabolic and cardiovascular issues.

    The study shows Stevia’s promise in this field for the first time. The study also found that active stevia molecules strongly interact with AMPK, highlighting the need for additional research.

    This work published in the journal “Food Bioscience” revealed Stevia’s potential and identified new targets for immunological endocrine and cardiovascular problems. It could have therapeutic effect on diabetes, type 1, type 2, autoimmune diabetes, pre-diabetes, chronic inflammation related auto immune disease – rheumatoid arthritis; chronic kidney diseases and cardiovascular diseases like hypertension; vasculopathy and so on.

    The study illuminates an undiscovered facet of Stevia, underlining the necessity of creative tactics and scientific data to support traditional therapeutic practices.

    Figure: The scientific method used by the research team: The network pharmacology to identify the target and then performed molecular docking for target validation. After that, conducted in vitro and in vivo studies of HPTLC validated Stevia that suggested the effectiveness of Stevia rebaudiana in inhibiting Protein Kinase C phosphorylation.

    ***

    NKR/KS/AG

    (Release ID: 2066691) Visitor Counter : 73

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Connections established between Volcanic Eruption & Ionospheric Disturbances

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 21 OCT 2024 4:05PM by PIB Delhi

    A new study has revealed a previously unexplored ionospheric connection between the massive eruption of the Tonga volcano, a submarine volcano in the South Pacific, on 15 January 2022 and the formation of Equatorial Plasma Bubbles (EPBs) or an ionospheric phenomenon near the Earth’s geomagnetic equator at night time over the Indian subcontinent.

    It highlights how volcanic eruptions can trigger ionospheric disturbances and space weather that affect satellite communication and navigation systems.

    In today’s world, satellite-based communication and navigation systems are critical for numerous sectors. Understanding how natural disasters, like volcanic eruptions, can impact the ionosphere is essential for predicting and mitigating disruptions in these systems. While previous studies have established that EPBs can disrupt satellite signals, the role of terrestrial events in shaping space weather has not been explored.

    On January 15, 2022, the Tonga volcano located 65 km (40 mi) north of Tongatapu, Tonga‘s main island in Polynesia, erupted with extraordinary force sending shock waves through the atmosphere.  Scientists were intrigued by the subsequent formation of EPBs in the evening hours over the Indian region.

    Scientists at Indian Institute of Geomagnetism (IIG) Navi Mumbai, an autonomous institute of Department of Science and Technology explored the connection between the Tonga volcanic eruption and the EPBs.

    They found that the eruption produced strong atmospheric gravity waves that propagated into the upper    atmosphere, triggering ionospheric conditions favorable to trigger EPBs. They used ionosonde observations from Tirunelveli and Prayagraj to detect spread-F traces –a phenomenon in the ionosphere where electron density become irregular causing spread in radio signals and leading to fading or disruptions in communications. Concurrently, satellite data from Swarm B and C confirmed significant electron density depletions, directly linked to the formation of EPBs.

    The scientists analyzed various atmospheric and ionospheric data to understand how disturbances triggered by the eruption led to the generation of EPBs.

    Observations from NASA’s Ionospheric Connection Explorer (ICON) (wind, ion density, and temperature) and Swarm satellites provided a comprehensive view of the ionospheric changes during the event, confirming that the eruption-induced gravity waves played a crucial role in initiating these plasma instabilities.

    Plasma blobs, as well as enhanced Pre- Reversal Enhancement (PRE) –sharp increase in the ionospheric eastward electric field in the dusk sector before it turns to westward in the late-night hours, triggered by atmospheric disturbances were also detected.

    Further analysis of iso-frequency and Total Electron Content (TEC) data from Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) measurements across the Indian region revealed gravity wave-like oscillations/Traveling Ionospheric Disturbances (TIDs) moving across Indian longitudes in the equatorial ionosphere.

    This indicated that the volcanic eruption had a widespread impact on the ionosphere and acted as seeding mechanisms for EPB generation.

    This comprehensive utilization of data from multiple sources gave the researchers a multi- dimensional view of the ionospheric disturbances.

    By combining ground-based and satellite data, the study published in “Journal of Geophysical Research: Space Physics” offers new insights into how natural disasters like volcanic eruptions can significantly influence space weather, affecting satellite communication and navigation systems.

    The Tonga Volcano identified as a cause for these ionospheric disturbances is a real-world example showing the need for monitoring space weather conditions in the aftermath of major geological events, adding to existing knowledge of ionospheric dynamics.

    The research by the team consisting of R K Barad, S Sripathi, S Banola, and K Vijaykumar, underscores the role of terrestrial events in shaping space weather, adding to existing knowledge of ionospheric dynamics.

    The connection established between geological events and ionospheric dynamics is important for satellite communication and relevant for sectors like defense, agriculture, aviation, disaster management, and any other areas that rely on Global Positioning Systems (GPS) and satellite-based technologies.

    The study can help improve forecasting of ionospheric disturbances leading to better early warning systems that involve satellite signal interference, benefiting fields like navigation, aviation, and military operations. This will allow governments and industries to better prepare for and mitigate disruptions in essential services like GPS, air traffic control, and satellite communications.

    Figure: (a) Brightness temperature (BT) perturbation at a 4.3-micron wavelength obtained from the AIRS instrument on NASA’s Aqua satellite, with the pink triangle indicating the location of the Tonga volcano. (b) Distance-time plot of Total Electron Content (TEC) perturbations observed over Colombo, Tirunelveli, Bangalore, and Hyderabad, with blue and red dots representing the first (∼452 m/s) and second (∼406 m/s) Traveling Ionospheric Disturbances (TIDs). (c) Temporal variation of the F-layer base height (h’F) over Tirunelveli and Prayagraj for January 2022, illustrating the ionospheric response following the eruption. This figure sequence captures the progression from the atmospheric disturbance caused by the Tonga eruption to its impact on the ionosphere over India.

    ***

    NKR/KS/AG

    (Release ID: 2066690) Visitor Counter : 66

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Real world information for car buyers acclaimed internationally

    Source: Australian Ministers 1

    The real-world vehicle testing program funded by the Albanese Government and run by the Australian Automobile Association has won an innovation award from the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile for Empowering Cleaner Choices.

    The program is a global first and allows car buyers to save money and make more informed choices by measuring fuel consumption and emissions of vehicles in real road conditions.

    Those results are compared to the results of laboratory tests provided by manufacturers.

    The testing gives consumers information they haven’t previously had about how a car may perform. It is intended to help buyers looking for more efficient and cheaper-to-run cars.

    It also helps provide policymakers in Australia and overseas with insights to help develop more accurate laboratory tests for the future.

    The Albanese Government is providing $14 million to the Australian Automobile Association over the next four years to test the real-world fuel usage of a range of popular cars, SUVs and utes sold in Australia.

    The testing to date has found results for 70 of Australia’s most popular cars, with 52 found to be using more fuel than reported from lab testing, and the latest results released today show some new cars consume over 30% more fuel than advertised.

    The Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) is the AAA’s international parent body and has membership from 242 organisations in 147 countries and this year held the inaugural Innovation Challenge Awards.

    The winners of the four categories were selected from 44 entries.

    The FIA congratulated the Real-World Testing program for providing “users with unprecedented information, enabling them to make more informed choices, save money and better protect the planet.”

    The Albanese Government committed to funding the Real-World Testing program at the 2022 election, and it was launched in October 2023.

    Quotes attributable to the Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, Catherine King: 

    “This program helps Australians make informed decisions based on the real costs of running a vehicle.

    “Transport takes a percentage of every household budget, that’s why it is important Australians have access to tools like this to help maximise savings.

    “That’s why we are funding this program and I congratulate the AAA on its success.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Goodbye Dunkirk Rd: Watercare moves out after wastewater upgrades

    Source: Auckland Council

    It’s official! Watercare has moved out from Dunkirk Rd.

    After 27 months, Watercare has completed a new wastewater pump station and a 1.4-kilometre gravity main that will greatly reduce overflows into the Tāmaki River and accommodate planned growth in the area.

    The infrastructure was delivered under a $51 million shovel ready project between Watercare and Kāinga Ora at $42.7 million.

    Watercare capital delivery general manager Suzanne Lucas says the wastewater upgrades were delivered on time and under budget.

    “This achievement is a testament to the combined efforts of our designers, infrastructure teams, and contractors who worked collaboratively to deliver critical infrastructure that meets the needs of the community without exceeding our budget.”                                                                                                                                                       

    The final remediation works on the Dunkirk wastewater pump station are now complete.

    Watercare project manager Jason Salmon says that since the pump station went into service in July, teams have been busy.

    “They have demolished the old pump station in the reserve and cleared out the laydown site where all the equipment and materials were stored.

    “This month our crews worked hard to complete the final remediation, planting and operational works at the reserve and pump station sites.

    “They also removed the traffic management, enabling access to Dunkirk Rd from Tangaroa St and Tobruk Rd.

    Salmon says the new Dunkirk Wastewater Pump Station – on the corner of Dunkirk Rd and Tangaroa St – can handle flows of up to 225 litres per second and hold up to 700,000 litres of wastewater across its four underground storage tanks.

    “The pump station’s increased pumping and storage capacity will play a significant role in reducing overflows into the Tāmaki River during wet weather.

    “The gravity main will also help to prevent most overflows into local waterways by diverting the extra flow during heavy rainfall to the new wastewater pump station.

    “In the future, stage two of the works will involve construction of a new rising main from the pump station to the Eastern Interceptor – a large transmission pipe that carries wastewater to our Māngere Wastewater Treatment Plant.”

    Salmon thanks the community for their patience and understanding while Watercare and its construction partner Fulton Hogan undertook this critical infrastructure work.

    “The completion of the Dunkirk wastewater upgrades marks the end of a significant journey to futureproof for current and future generations.

    “The benefits of these upgrades will be felt for years to come, ensuring a sustainable future for our community.”           

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: The on-farm benefits of good effluent management

    Source: Environment Canterbury Regional Council

    Date:

    Dairy effluent requires careful management

    When managed well, dairy effluent is a valuable resource that can increase the productivity of your pasture and reduce your fertiliser costs.

    Good effluent management means having a well-designed system with proper processes to ensure the right amount of effluent gets applied to pasture at the right time. Untreated effluent entering surface water bodies or groundwater can harm human health and water quality. It is also a breach of environmental regulations.

    “Understanding and adhering to your consent conditions, along with making sound effluent management decisions, will help ensure nutrients and bacteria are not transmitted to surface and groundwater supplies,” Team Leader Central Water and Land Marcelo Wibmer says.

    Managing effluent well protects human health and our water quality

    “We’re here to help support you to stay compliant, as this not only prevents negative environmental impacts, but it also ensures you get the most benefit out of the nutrients from your farming operation.”

    Top tips for staying compliant

    You must comply with local rules and the conditions of your consent and exercise Good Management Practice (GMP) to avoid environmental impacts and get the most value from the nutrients.

    Some of our top tips are:

    • Check soil moisture levels regularly: Applying effluent to saturated soils can result in ponding and run-off so it’s important to understand soil water deficit. Manage your effluent application rates based on seasonal conditions, reducing the rate when soil moisture is elevated.
    • Choose application times wisely: Effluent is best applied to actively growing pastures (ideally straight after post-grazing) at a rate that can infiltrate the soil without ponding or causing run-off, avoids draining below plant roots and is spread evenly. Tools such as the DairyNZ Farm Dairy Effluent Spreading Calculator and Depth Testing Calculator are available to help manage the application of effluent nutrients more precisely and ensure your effluent is evenly distributed.
    • Check soil moisture levels regularly: Applying effluent to saturated soils can result in ponding and run-off so it’s important to understand soil water deficit. Manage your effluent application rates based on seasonal conditions, reducing the rate when soil moisture is elevated.
    • Have sufficient available storage: It’s good practice to ensure you have enough storage to get you through the wet times and help you avoid application on saturated soils. It is also crucial to have suitably sized storage for your farm. Check out Dairy NZ’s resources on storage for more information.
    • Monitor your effluent application: This will help identify issues promptly – for example leaking hoses or blocked nozzles. Consider fail-safe effluent management systems that include features such as auto-shutoff in the case of a fault.
    • Keep good records: As part of your FEP and consent obligations you will need to keep records of all effluent applications, including application depths/volume applied and any equipment repairs undertaken. Regular maintenance of your irrigation application equipment is vital for optimal performance.
    • Educate your staff: Training in operation and management helps ensure GMP is followed, and any issues are flagged early.

    On-farm compliance

    If you have a resource consent to discharge animal effluent, you will have two sets of compliance measures you are responsible for meeting – the conditions of your resource consent, and your Farm Environment Plan (FEP) objectives and targets relating to effluent management.

    Our Resource Management Officers (RMOs) carry out monitoring inspections on farms to assess consent and rule compliance for many farming activities including effluent storage and discharge.

    An independent FEP auditor will visit your farm to verify your farming practices against industry-agreed GMP objectives, check your records and paperwork to assess their confidence that your farm is achieving the objectives and targets set out in your FEP appendix.

    The possible consequences of non-compliance are:

    • A notice of non-compliance
    • A letter of formal warning
    • Cost recovery
    • Requesting an application for a retrospective resource consent
    • An abatement notice
    • An infringement notice
    • An enforcement order from the Environment Court
    • Alternative Environmental Justice (AEJ)
    • Prosecution.

    If you have any questions about effluent management contact our advisory team on 0800 324 636 or email ecinfo@ecan.govt.nz and they can put you in touch with your local land management advisor.

    Environment Canterbury © 2024
    Retrieved: 11:07am, Tue 22 Oct 2024
    ecan.govt.nz/get-involved/news-and-events/2024/the-on-farm-benefits-of-good-effluent-management/

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Release: Appalling process on three strikes law

    Source: New Zealand Labour Party

    The Government is subverting parliamentary process on laws the evidence already shows don’t work.

    “The Justice Select Committee has not reported back, and yet the Government is making changes based on what it claims that committee heard and the public has said,” Labour’s justice spokesperson Duncan Webb said.  

    “We are yet to even receive a draft of the select committee report, and released submissions so far show overwhelming opposition to the bill.

    “The proper process to have input is through the select committee, not a selection of private emails to the Minister.

    “The fact Minister Nicole McKee is jumping the gun and making these changes shows she is not interested in evidence or good process.

    “They are beating the tough on crime drum to cover for wider government failures and misbehaviours.

    “The first three strikes bill was a failure and the proposed changes to this bill will only make it worse,” Duncan Webb said.

    Stay in the loop by signing up to our mailing list and following us on Facebook, Instagram, and X.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Reporters Without Borders RSF launches the Myanmar Press Freedom Project to protect and support Burmese journalists

    Source: Reporters Without Borders (RSF) (Video Release)

    #THAILAND: “We have journalists that are taking risks that are crossing the border, that are bringing first hand account reports”.

    As an increasing number of journalists have been forced into exile due to the brutal crackdown on press freedom by the military junta in Myanmar, Reporters Without Borders (RSF) is launching the Myanmar Press Freedom Project in Chiang Mai.

    Since the coup on 1 February 2021, Myanmar’s military junta has mercilessly cracked down on the press. Seven journalists and press freedom defenders have been executed, and at least 150 have been arrested and imprisoned.

    Developed in partnership with Exile Hub, the project aims to provide Myanmar journalists — both in exile and within Myanmar — with equipment such as laptops, mobile phones, solar batteries, and digital security tools, as well as various training to strengthen their capacities.

    #Myanmar #MyanmarPressFreedom #media #rsf #freespeech #freepress #journalists #journaliste #condemningabuses #reportersindanger #libertédelapresse #journalismisntacrime #fightfortruth #humanrights #freemedia

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P03iXef0JCc

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Veterans and Caregiver Give Cyber Safety Advice

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    Hear directly from fellow Veterans and a caregiver who face the same online safety challenges as all Veterans do every day, and how they maneuver through to keep themselves and their families safe. They tell personal stories of combatting cyber threats and keeping Veteran friends and families safe from online predators. Listen to their compelling personal stories and important advice. This short video gives top tips for the Veteran community on how to stay safe online. Together, let’s Secure Our World. For more about VA digital tools for the Veteran community, visit

    Home


    .
    #Veterans
    #cybersecurity
    #onlinesafety

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qe8tpQyH8iI

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Saving Lives by Intercepting Human Traffickers – Body Worn Camera POV | CBP

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    On the night of May 24, 2023, at approximately 10:15 p.m., a U.S. Border Patrol (USBP) agent spotted a suspicious vehicle—a blue Chevrolet Silverado—on U.S. Highway 281 in Texas.

    Upon questioning, the driver claimed the truck was overheating, but a loud noise from the truck’s toolbox told a different story. A search revealed a loaded pistol on the driver, raising tensions.

    Further inspection uncovered three individuals dangerously crammed inside the toolbox, hidden beneath a blue tarp. One of the individuals was in critical condition, suffering from heat exhaustion and lack of air.

    Instagram ➤ https://instagram.com/CBPgov
    Facebook ➤ https://facebook.com/CBPgov
    Twitter ➤ https://twitter.com/CBP
    Official Website ➤ https://www.cbp.gov

    #cbp
    #smugglers
    #rescue
    #lawenforcement

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7zzu4hUfvnU

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: The Long Bridge Rail Project is officially becoming a reality.

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

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

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: USACE Blue Roof Mission Starts in Sarasota, FL

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    If your home was damaged by Hurricane Milton, Operation Blue Roof can help with free temporary roof repairs! U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Headquarters is working to provide eligible homeowners with fiber-reinforced plastic sheeting for damaged roofs.
    Here’s how to sign up:
    Visit: blueroof.gov
    Call: 888-ROOF-BLU (888-766-3258)
    This service is available in 22 counties, including Brevard, Citrus, Hillsborough, Pinellas, Sarasota, and more. The initial sign-up period ends November 5—don’t wait! You can also visit a Right of Entry (ROE) collection center near you to sign up using a ROE form. This temporary fix can help give you peace of mind as you work toward permanent repairs.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U8N-tYVUhZk

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: The PACT ACT – Updated Airborne Hazards and Open Burn Pit Registry | The BLUF

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    In this episode of The BLUF, we take a look at the recently redesigned and updated Airborne Hazards and Open Air Burn Pit Registry associated with the PACT Act. The PACT Act is a law that expands VA health care and benefits for Veterans exposed to burn pits, Agent Orange, and other toxic substances. This law helps us provide generations of Veterans—and their survivors—with the care and benefits they’ve earned and deserve.

    For more information on this story:
    https://www.va.gov/pact

    VA redesigns and expands Burn Pit Registry


    https://www.publichealth.va.gov/exposures/burnpits/registry.asp

    File a disability claim online:
    https://www.va.gov/disability/file-disability-claim-form-21-526ez/introduction

    Apply for VA health care:
    https://www.va.gov/health-care/apply-for-health-care-form-10-10ez/introduction

    The BLUF
    A VA Rocky Mountain Network Production
    This show is made by Veterans for Veterans

    Executive Producer: Shawn Spitler
    Producer, Director, Editor: Matt Murray
    Host, Producer: Sarah Kallassy
    Technical Director: Patrick Battle
    Audiovisual Production Specialist: Adam Desaulniers
    Stories by: Katie Beall, Jesus Flores, Sarah Kallassy, and Matt Murray

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HeBeqkKOwf4

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: UN Peacekeeping marks 25 years of protecting civilians as record levels of conflict highlight growing need

    Source: United Nations – Peacekeeping

    Written by the UN Peacekeeping’s Protection of Civilians (POC) team in the Division of Policy, Evaluation and Training (DPET) at UN headquarters in New York. The team provides resources, expertise and support to UN peacekeeping missions, UN member states and bodies such as the Security Council, and other stakeholders working to protect civilians in conflict.

     

    Twenty-five years ago, the United Nations Security Council decided that the protection of civilians (POC) in armed conflict was an issue of international peace and security, and it tasked the UN Mission in Sierra Leone (UNAMSIL) with the first explicit mandate to protect civilians from threats of physical violence. Prior to this, peacekeeping missions helped protect populations through key activities like monitoring ceasefires, disarming combatants, and supporting peace negotiations, but were not authorized by the Security Council to intervene with force to protect populations.

    This was a groundbreaking step, establishing the protection of civilians as a core responsibility for UN peacekeeping missions operating in conflict zones. Today, this role remains critical, as conflicts have surged globally, with catastrophic effects on civilian populations, including an alarming 72 percent rise in civilian deaths in 2023 alone.

    National state authorities are responsible for protecting the population in their territory, and peacekeepers support them to do so. However, in some peacekeeping contexts where host states are unwilling or unable to fully meet this responsibility, the Security Council empowers peacekeepers to step in. In these cases, peacekeeping missions are authorized to prevent and stop threats of physical violence against civilians, including through the use of force when needed.

    In missions with a POC mandate, all peacekeepers – civilian, police and military – are responsible for protecting civilians. They coordinate with each other as well as with local authorities and UN staff outside the mission. And while peacekeepers are not resourced to protect all populations at all times, peacekeeping missions use all their available tools to prevent conflict before it starts and protect those most at risk from violence.

    Over the past 25 years, the POC mandate has become a cornerstone of UN peacekeeping operations, shaping how missions prevent and respond to violence against civilians. Sixteen peacekeeping missions have been mandated to protect civilians, including five missions deployed today in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA), the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO), Lebanon (UNIFIL), Abyei (UNISFA), and South Sudan (UNMISS).

    To commemorate this 25-year journey, UN peacekeeping is launching the Profiles in POC campaign that will, over the next few months, share a collection of personal stories and reflections showcasing POC efforts on the front lines. The series traces the evolution of the mandate from its inception in 1999 to the present day. From field operations in conflict-affected areas to strategic decision-making at the UN Security Council, the stories capture the breadth of contributions from those advancing the POC mandate. Each profile reveals a unique narrative, shedding light on the challenges, successes, and lessons learned in ongoing efforts to protect civilians from the violence of war.

    The stories honour the commitment of all those working to uphold the POC mandate and remind us of the immense dedication and resilience of peacekeepers, uniformed and civilian, and peacekeeping stakeholders.

    As we reflect on 25 years of progress, we invite you to explore these profiles and learn more about the people behind the mandate who work tirelessly to protect civilians and promote peace amidst some of the world’s most challenging conflicts.

    Visit the protection of civilians website to read the profiles as they are posted.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: UN Secretary-General’s remarks at the inauguration of the renovated Africa Hall

    Source: United Nations

    Dear Prime Minister Abiy, dear Chairperson Moussa Faki, dear friends and colleagues,

    It is an enormous pleasure to join all of you for this moment of history – in this house of history. 

    I thank all our partners – particularly the Government of Ethiopia, along with our own United Nations Economic Commission for Africa for the tremendous work.

    This hall is where Africa came together to give life to the Organization of African Unity, now the African Union. 

    Times were very different. 

    In 1961, when this Hall was inaugurated by Emperor Haile Selassie, only 26 African nations had achieved independence – many of them just months before.

    Today, Africa is a transformed continent.

    And to my mind, this renewed building symbolizes renewed hope and unity for Africa.

    This Hall is a bridge between Africa’s past and future – honouring shared struggles and achievements, while embracing common aspirations.  It is ubuntu.

    A state of the art 21st century facility that preserves the grandeur and history of this great continent.

    I also see it as an invitation for everyone to cooperate in pursuit of a better future, for Africa and for the world.

    Dear friends,

    As we celebrate this new beginning, we must also acknowledge the challenges ahead of us.

    Africa is a continent of hope. 

    But it faces challenges that are deeply rooted in history and are exacerbated by climate change, conflict and persistent poverty.

    And African women often bear the brunt of these hardships.

    Addressing these issues requires resolute action and renewed solidarity.

    Our global institutions were built at a time when most of Africa was under colonial rule.  

    But unlike this Hall with its 21st century innovations, many of these global institutions are stuck in those times, unable to respond to the aspirations and rights of the African people.

    Africa still has no permanent seat at the Security Council. And let’s hope it will be corrected soon.

    And international financial institutions often cannot provide African countries with the response they need – whether it is protection from strangling debt or from climate catastrophe they did not cause.

    We can only move forward if we also renew and update global institutions – by making them more effective, fair and inclusive.

    Last month, world leaders adopted the Pact for the Future, the Global Digital Compact and the Declaration on Future Generations.

    The Pact recognizes the need to reform the Security Council to make it representative, transparent, efficient, democratic and accountable.

    It also calls for groundbreaking reforms of the international financial architecture – including to massively scale-up affordable development and climate finance.

    And the Global Digital Compact includes the first truly universal agreement on the governance of Artificial Intelligence – giving every country a seat at the table, while supporting partnerships to bridge the digital divide and build AI capacity in developing countries and namely in Africa.

    We must now move forward together in implementing these historic agreements without delay.

    And we must include young people at every step of the way.

    Dear friends,

    For more than sixty years, the Africa Hall has been a symbol of the continent’s collective aspirations, a testament to its resilience, and a beacon of hope for entire generations.

    Today, as we step into this renewed space, let us also renew our pledge to work for the people of Africa and the world we need.

    May the debates and discussions here continue to lead towards greater peace, unity and prosperity for all on the African continent.

    And I thank you.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Update 13: Further tests on soil and shellfish are planned for the former BNAS and Harpswell Cove

    Source: US State of Maine

    October 21, 2024

    CONTACT:

    Results from ten (10) rounds of surface water sampling conducted in Mare Brook have been provided to the Maine Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). The most recent data was obtained on September 19, 2024, one month after the AFFF release date. PFAS concentrations have been significantly reduced during this time however they remain elevated from pre-spill concentrations. Trends continue to generally decrease as the PFAS works its way through the watershed, and no significant rebound of concentrations have occurred to suggest a further emergency removal effort is warranted. The DEP will continue to monitor surface water into the foreseeable future but plans to reduce the sampling frequency from weekly sample events to monthly, beginning in November. The DEP has also begun submitting samples to its contracted laboratory on a standard turnaround time for analysis which provides results of samples approximately one month after sample collection. These changes to the sampling program were deemed appropriate after reviewing all available data and determining that additional definition in trends provided by sampling frequency will not increase protectiveness to human health or the environment.

    This week, DEP staff plan to complete additional soil sampling in the Pond B area. The previous soil sampling event near Pond B was completed in September from an area where appreciable amounts of foam accumulated on the day of the AFFF release. The soil in this area was found to have concentrations of PFAS below the States Remedial Action Guidelines for the park user exposure scenario, but the concentrations were well above background levels for Maine soil. The additional soil sampling will be completed to evaluate potential risk to adjacent site users immediately north and south of Neptune Drive near the Pond B area.

    The Department is coordinating with the Department of Marine Resources (DMR) and the Town of Brunswick to conduct additional shellfish sampling in Harpswell Cove in and adjacent to the area currently under an extended seasonal closure. DEP personnel collected softshell clam and blue mussel samples from Harpswell Cove in September and expects to receive PFAS lab results in December. While these results are pending and with help from Brunswick, the Department will collect additional softshell clam, blue mussel and quahog samples in October and November to provide additional data if necessary. DMR will use these PFAS data to support future decisions about reopening or continued closure of the shellfish harvesting area.

    On October 16, 2024, the Navy, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, and DEP project teams met to discuss the initial review of DEP data resulting from the AFFF release at Hangar 4 at the former Naval Air Station in Brunswick. Surface water, soil, and drinking water data were shared with the Navy by DEP to identify trends and preliminary findings. The initial discussions were intended to identify agreed upon next steps under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA) process, but did not address liability, policy conflicts, or final cleanup actions. Action items resulting from the CERCLA project team meetings will be released as soon as consensus has been reached.

    A new web map produced by the Department summarizes the surface water, treated wastewater, soil, fish, and private water well samples that the DEP has collected since the AFFF release in August. Visit the DEP BNAS webpage to view the map.

    For additional information, contact: David R. Madore, Deputy Commissioner david.madore@maine.gov

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Loch Fire Brigade the link to their local community

    Source: Victoria Country Fire Authority

    Andy Teitge and Phillip Clarke – Loch Fire Brigade Volunteers

    If you live in a rural Victorian town, you undoubtably know your local CFA.
    Loch Fire Brigade rolled up their doors to show others what giving time to your local fire brigade looks like and how fulfilling it can be.

    Are you

    Volunteering with Loch has been the link to getting to know the local community for Andy Teitge, who joined only two years ago.

    Phillip Clark who has been a volunteer with CFA since his junior years, credits his long-term involvement with CFA for his passion for emergency services – having also volunteered with Ambulance Victoria and now through his current employment with Victoria Police.

    If you’re interested in joining CFA or learning more about volunteering, head to http://www.cfa.vic.gov.au/volunteer to ‘Give Us Hand’. 

    Submitted by Courtney Walker

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Saskatoon — Saskatoon RCMP seek public assistance locating missing 15-year-old male

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    On October 18, 2024, Saskatoon RCMP received a report of a missing 15-year-old male, Landon Daniels.

    Landon was last seen on October 18, 2024 at approximately 3:15 p.m. in Allan, SK. Since he was reported missing, Saskatoon RCMP have been checking places Landon is known to visit and following up on information received. They are now asking members of the public to report information on Landon’s whereabouts.

    Landon is described as 5’8″ tall and 190 pounds. He has brown eyes and short brown hair. He was last seen wearing a light grey zip up hoodie with a Nike logo, light brown pants and brown shoes.

    If you have seen Landon or know where he is, contact Saskatoon RCMP at 310-RCMP. Information can also be submitted anonymously by contacting Saskatchewan Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or http://www.saskcrimestoppers.com.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Stowe Man Sentenced to 14 Months in Jail for Unlawful Possession of a Firearm

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

    Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that on October 21, 2024, Theodore Bland, 29, of Stowe, Vermont, was sentenced by United States District Judge William K. Sessions III to a term of 14 months’ imprisonment to be followed by a two-year term of supervised release. Bland previously pleaded guilty to possessing a Mossburg 12-gauge shotgun on March 17, 2023, while being an unlawful user of controlled substances and knowing that he was an unlawful user of controlled substances.

    According to court records, on March 17, 2023, Bland brandished a 12-gauge Mossburg Model 88 Maverick shotgun while threatening the driver of a vehicle in the parking lot of a South Burlington convenience store. The two female passengers that had been travelling with the threatened driver then got in Bland’s car. Bland and the two females then drove around for several hours, during which time Bland smoked cocaine base and continued to possess the shotgun. When Bland was stopped by the Vermont State Police, officers observed the Mossburg shotgun and various controlled substances located in the vehicle.

    After the sentencing hearing, Bland was arraigned on a separate, pending indictment, which charges drug and firearms crimes. The United States issued a press release on that matter on September 19, 2024. Bland pleaded not guilty to those charges and was detained pending trial.

    United States Attorney Nikolas P. Kerest commended the collaborative investigatory efforts of the South Burlington Police Department, the Vermont State Police, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Stowe Police Department, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Morristown Police Department, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Lamoille County Sheriff’s Department.

    The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jason Turner and Paul Van de Graaf. Bland is represented by David Sleigh, Esq.

    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. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sen. Cramer: Department of Energy Awards Nearly $49 Million for Project Tundra Construction

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND)
    Click here to download audio.
    BISMARCK, N.D. – The U.S. Department of Energy Office of Fossil Energy and Carbon Management announced the award of nearly $49 million to DCC East Project LLC in Grand Forks to construct a large-scale geologic carbon storage facility in support of Project Tundra. The project will add full-time equivalent jobs to the already existing 360 jobs at Minnkota’s Milton R. Young Station and the adjacent coal mine.
    “Project Tundra really is the embodiment of North Dakota’s energy dominance and, more importantly, innovation, and the state’s commitment to lignite coal always being available, low-cost, reliable, abundant and a chosen, clean form of generating electricity,” said U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND), a member of the Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee. “This award recognizes that leadership in responsible energy development and it gets this important project one step closer to completion.”
    This project, funded by the fully-paid-for Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, will support the Carbon Storage Assurance Facility Enterprise (CarbonSAFE) Initiative. Established in 2016, the CarbonSAFE Initiative aims to address gaps in carbon capture and storage deployment.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: US Department of Labor recovers $105K in back wages, damages for 28 Grand Rapids restaurant workers after owner withheld tips

    Source: US Department of Labor

    Employer:      The Saucy Crab Grand Rapids LLC operating as The Saucy Crab

                                  Jixi Qiu, owner

                                  5039 28th St. SE

                                  Grand Rapids, MI

    Action:           Fair Labor Standards Act consent judgment and order

    Courts:           U.S. District Court for the Western District of Michigan

    Findings:        A federal court ordered The Saucy Crab and its owner Jixi Qiu to pay $105,000 in back wages and liquidated damages to 28 former employees of the Grand Rapids restaurant that ceased operating in October 2022.  

    Entered on Oct. 3, 2024, the consent judgment and order resolves a complaint filed by the U.S. Department of Labor on July 14, 2023.

    An investigation by the department’s Wage and Hour Division found the restaurant and Qiu violated provisions of the Fair Labor Standards Act when they illegally used a tip pool and denied employees correct minimum and overtime wages from at least August 2020 through October 2022.

    The court also ordered the Saucy Crab and Qiu to pay an additional $10,000 in civil money penalties for its willful FLSA violations. The consent judgment restrains and forbids the restaurant and Qiu from future violations of the FLSA’s tip pooling, minimum wage, overtime and retaliation provisions.                                                 

    Quotes: “The Saucy Crab’s owner took tips from servers and bartenders to benefit his company and denied servers, cooks and dishwashers their fully earned wages. This judgment puts those wages back in the hands of former employees shortchanged by Qiu and the restaurant,” said Wage and Hour Division District Director Mary O’Rourke in Grand Rapids, Michigan. “The Department of Labor will always protect the rights of workers in all industries to receive the pay they have rightfully earned.” 

    “The Saucy Crab joins a list of U.S. restaurant employers we’ve found shortchanging workers by misusing some of their tips,” said Regional Solicitor of Labor Christine Heri in Chicago. “Federal law forbids employers from keeping employees’ tips – either direct from customers or shared in a tip pool – for any purpose.”

    Attorney Haley R. Jenkins in the department’s Regional Office of the Solicitor in Chicago litigated the case.

    Background: The department’s Quick Service Restaurants Compliance Assistance Toolkit explains wage laws for the industry. Learn more about the Wage and Hour Division.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center will pay $900K in back wages, interest to resolve alleged systemic racial hiring discrimination

    Source: US Department of Labor

    DALLAS – The U.S. Department of Labor and the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center have entered into a conciliation agreement in which the federal contractor will pay $900,000 in back wages and interest to resolve alleged systemic racial hiring affecting 6,123 Black applicants at the center’s Dallas facility.

    A routine compliance evaluation by the department’s Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs found the research hospital’s hiring practices allegedly discriminated against Black applicants from Aug. 24, 2016, through Aug. 24, 2018, in violation of Executive Order 11246, which prohibits federal contractors from discriminating in employment based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or national origin. 

    In addition to the back wages and interest, UT’s Southwest Medical Center will make 132 job offers to the affected job applicants and ensure its hiring policies and procedures do not discriminate. The facility will also provide training to all managers, supervisors and other company officials in the hiring process. 

    “Federal contractors must ensure they are not engaging in discriminatory employment practices. Employers must ensure equal employment opportunities and nondiscrimination in hiring for all applicants,” said Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs’ Southwest and Rocky Mountain Regional Director Ronald W. Sullivan II in Dallas.

    The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center employs about 23,000 people and provides medical education, scientific training and clinical care. It currently has contracts to provide services to the Department of Veterans Affairs and has held more than $90 million in federal contracts since 2013.

    OFCCP launched the Class Member Locator to identify applicants and/or workers who have been impacted by OFCCP’s compliance evaluations and complaint investigations and who may be entitled to a portion of monetary relief and/or consideration for job placement. In addition to Executive Order 11246, OFCCP enforces Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and the Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act of 1974. Together, these laws prohibit employment discrimination by federal contractors.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Federal judge orders Florida water park to pay $151K in penalties after Department of Labor again finds child labor violations

    Source: US Department of Labor

    ORLANDO, FL – The U.S. Department of Labor has obtained a consent order requiring a Jacksonville Beach water park to pay $151,606 in penalties after investigators found the company assigned young teenagers to work late hours during the school year and as attendants on elevated water slides without certification.

    The consent order by the department’s Office of Administrative Law Judges follows an investigation by the department’s Wage and Hour Division. Investigators determined 1944 Beach Boulevard LLC, operator of Adventure Landing, employed 14- and 15-year-olds to work past 7 p.m. on weeknights and past 9 p.m. on Fridays between the day after Labor Day and May 31, outside of the limitations permitted under federal law. 

    “Employing children to work excessively can jeopardize their well-being and education,” said Wage and Hour Division District Director Vilma Bell in Orlando, Florida. “We are committed to ensuring that young people have positive first employment experiences that teach them valuable skills while earning wages. Employers must understand and comply with federal child labor laws to ensure young workers’ safety.” 

    Investigators also found Adventure Landing assigned 14-year-old employees to work as attendants atop elevated water slides without required certifications. The Fair Labor Standards Act makes employing 14-year-olds in this type of work illegal.

    In addition to paying $151,606 in civil money penalties, the employer signed a compliance agreement to enhance child labor safeguards and prevent future violations. Adventure Landing will take the following steps:

    • Review and enhance training on child labor regulations for all employees, including translating content, and making those training materials easily reviewable by the department’s investigators.
    • Ensure managers report known child labor violations.
    • Provide a report that outlines steps to come into compliance. 

    This is the second time division investigators uncovered federal child labor violations at Adventure Landing. In 2018, the division assessed $6,199 in penalties after the employer assigned eight 14- and 15-year-olds to work longer and later than allowed and one child to perform prohibited work at its Pineville, N.C. location.

    In fiscal year 2023, the division found nearly 5,800 children employed nationally in violation of federal law, including more than 500 illegally employed in hazardous occupations, and assessed employers more than $8 million in child labor-related penalties, up 83 percent from the previous year.

    The department’s YouthRules! initiative promotes positive and safe work experiences for teens by providing information about protections for young workers to youth, parents, employers and educators. Through this initiative, the department and its partners promote developmental work experiences that help prepare young workers to enter the workforce. The division has also published Seven Child Labor Best Practices for Employers to help employers comply with the law. Learn more about the Fair Labor Standards Act’s child labor provisions. 

    Learn more about the Wage and Hour Division. Workers and employers can call the division’s toll-free helpline at 866-4US-WAGE (487-9243) confidentially with questions, regardless of immigration status. The division can speak with callers in more than 200 languages. Download the agency’s free Timesheet App for Android and iOS devices, available in English and Spanish, to help track work hours and pay.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Department of Labor investigation of worker’s serious injuries finds Texas furniture manufacturer failed to install required machine guards

    Source: US Department of Labor

    TEMPLE, TX – Federal workplace safety investigators have determined that a Temple manufacturer and designer of school furnishings could have prevented an employee’s serious and permanent hand and arm injuries by installing required machine guards. 

    Investigators with the U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration learned that in April 2024, while using a garden hose to clean machine rollers at Artco-Bell Corp., the hose became caught in the rollers, pulling the worker’s arm into the machine and leading to the worker injury. 

    In addition to failing to ensure the use of machine guards, OSHA inspectors found the company exposed workers to respirable crystalline silica hazards. The agency issued citations for 24 serious safety and health violations and assessed $257,183 in proposed penalties.

    “An employee suffered painful injuries because Artco-Bell Corp. failed to comply with federal requirements for machine guards,” explained OSHA Area Director Monica Camacho in Austin, Texas. “Employers are responsible for ensuring their workers are trained to recognize and address workplace hazards, and that safety information is communicated in languages their employees understand.” 

    Since 1965, Artco-Bell Corp. has designed and manufactured furniture for schools and other educational settings. The company employs more than 250 people.

    The company has 15 business days from receipt of its citations and penalties to comply, request an informal conference with OSHA’s area director, or contest the findings before the independent Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission.

    Learn about proper machine guarding.

     Learn more about OSHA.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Deputy Administrator Isobel Coleman on Building Nutritional Resilience in Food Security

    Source: USAID

    DEPUTY ADMINISTRATOR ISOBEL COLEMAN: Thank you, Ambassador [Jeff] Prescott for hosting me and this discussion here today. 

    It’s a great opportunity to renew our commitment to prioritizing nutrition ahead of the next Nutrition for Growth Summit in Paris next year. 

    Over just the past five years, we’ve faced a number of disruptions to global food security: A global pandemic, increasing climate-related disasters, and global food crises exacerbated by Russia’s unprovoked war on Ukraine. 

    Currently, there are 56 active conflicts in the world, the highest number since World War II. Because of this, as we all know, even though humanitarian needs are rising, there are still not nearly enough resources available to meet global needs.

    Worldwide, most recent estimates indicate that well over 700 million people are undernourished, lacking adequate food to live healthy, active lives. 

    It is estimated that a staggering 45 million children under the age of five are experiencing acute malnutrition at any given time, and every year, up to two million of these children die as a result. 

    Malnutrition devastates every aspect of a child’s body. Those who survive experience lasting consequences, robbing them of the ability to live, think, create, and thrive because of lack of access to basic, life-sustaining nutrition. 

    The United States remains committed to addressing malnutrition in all its forms. 

    With the scale of child wasting today, we need to make sure that as many children as possible can be reached.

    So, we all know we need to get even smarter and more strategic about the way we do this work. 

    Fortunately, one year ago WHO released new guidelines for child wasting prevention and management which have helped us do just that, providing a helpful framework to update our efforts to combat malnutrition and making us more effective in our work. 

    For example, the guidelines emphasize the importance of strengthening coordination between WFP and UNICEF for more effective prevention and treatment of moderately wasted children and severely wasted children.

    In addition, the guidelines highlight the necessity of prevention programming in addition to treatment – to prevent children from becoming wasted in the first place. 

    This is not only the most humane approach, but the most strategic and the most cost-effective. 

    Without appropriate prevention, we know the billions spent today on treatment will continue in perpetuity.

    And recognizing the critical role that community healthcare workers already play in meeting local needs, the guidelines empower community health workers with proper training to treat wasting and malnutrition at home – resulting in fewer trips to clinics, and fewer expensive, in-patient stays at government facilities. 

    The new guidelines also enable us to be more nimble, allowing severely malnourished children who are quickly improving to gradually consume less Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Food as they recover, which nutritionists agree is beneficial to a child’s long-term health.

    This allows us to channel this powerful resource to the children who need it the most.

    USAID has been focused on implementing the guidelines’ recommendations in order to reach more children – and we’ve been working hand-in-hand with WFP and UNICEF to develop and implement a joint strategy for phasing in these guidelines in priority humanitarian contexts. 

    Just last month, USAID provided $100 million to each partner to support those efforts. 

    The WHO guidelines brought attention to the growing evidence base of nutrition research and helped to identify where we have gaps in evidence still to be filled. 

    Last week, I announced USAID’s first policy paper on Cost-Effectiveness because we have learned from the global body of impact evaluation evidence that there are some programs that deliver extraordinary returns. 

    I committed the agency to infusing rigorous evidence more broadly and deeply across all our programming to maximize our “impact per dollar.” 

    Today, I am pleased to announce that USAID will host an evidence summit on wasting research in December of this year, which will bring together researchers to discuss the latest findings from nutrition experts and to identify gaps in evidence in order to shape future research. 

    Following the evidence sometimes requires shifting some of our investments in activities that are demonstrably “good”, because the evidence shows we could make greater progress toward the same objectives through other approaches.

    It’s hard to stop a program that is doing some good, but that’s exactly what we need to do when we know we could achieve even more by working in a different way. 

    This kind of evidence-driven collaboration is an important step toward determining and implementing the most cost-effective malnutrition programming – which we at USAID view as a paramount priority and a moral obligation as we seek to create the greatest impact possible with each dollar we spend. 

    In closing, I want to thank Special Envoy [Brieuc] Pont for his steadfast leadership in preparing for the next Nutrition for Growth Summit in France next year. The U.S. government is a proud member of the Troika, which brings together hosts of Nutrition for Growth past, present, and future together with the Governments of Japan and France. 

    In 2021, USAID was proud to put forward a commitment focused on prevention and treatment of childhood wasting. 

    Going into 2025, we strongly believe this will be a critical opportunity for the entire global nutrition community to recommit to both evidence and action.

    MIL OSI USA News –