Category: AM-NC

MIL-OSI Canada: Canadian tourism ministers join forces to propel tourism forward

Source: Government of Canada News

Tourism is a key industry and economic driver in every province and territory, supporting over 2 million jobs, or about 10 percent of all employment in Canada in 2023.

October 17, 2024 – Banff, Alberta

Tourism is a key industry and economic driver in every province and territory, supporting over 2 million jobs, or about 10 percent of all employment in Canada in 2023. In several jurisdictions, tourism is the top or one of the top service exports. Today, the federal, provincial and territorial ministers responsible for tourism participated in the 2024 Canadian Council of Tourism Ministers (CCTM) meeting in Banff National Park. The meeting was held in Alberta with the Honourable Soraya Martinez Ferrada, Minister of Tourism and Minister responsible for the Economic Development Agency of Canada for the Regions of Quebec, as well as the Honourable Joseph Schow, Alberta Minister of Tourism and Sport, co-chairing and recognizing the traditional Treaty 7 territory.

In 2023, tourism industries represented nearly 6 percent of Canada’s total economy and almost 8 percent of the Canadian service economy. Tourism revenues reached $113.4 billion in 2023 and the positive experiences international tourists have in Canada enhance the country’s brand abroad. Tourism has strong growth potential in every province and territory, and ministers recognized that strategic and collaborative actions will propel the sector forward.

Throughout the meeting, ministers heard from tourism stakeholders on the areas of destination development, investment attraction, workforce development and retention, air access, parks and recreation, and emergency management. Ministers acknowledged the importance of having consistent dialogue with experts in these fields to capitalize on trends, glean critical operational insights, and work collaboratively with industry partners to find solutions for the most pressing challenges facing the sector. Ministers sought an international perspective by inviting a speaker from the Government of Australia to discuss experiences and best practices in attracting workers to careers in tourism. Ministers also heard from Alberta officials about their successes in supporting the recovery and relaunch of the tourism sector, while bringing attention to ambitious strategic plans for the future, which aim to more than double the size of the province’s visitor economy within the next decade. Alberta demonstrated leadership within Canada’s overall tourism economy, ushering in a return to pre-pandemic levels of visitor spending two years ahead of schedule.

Ministers also acknowledged the economic impact of this summer’s wildfires across Canada, particularly in the Municipality of Jasper and Jasper National Park, as well as the critical importance of effective emergency management and disaster preparedness. Ministers also noted that emergency management is paramount for all jurisdictions as, like other countries, Canada faces the potential of a range of emergency events year-round. Maintaining Canada’s brand and reputation are important components of the collaborative work of jurisdictions to respond to events as they arise.

Ministers were pleased with the work accomplished by the CCTM Working Groups throughout 2024 to address the topics of destination access and economic growth, as well as the important connections forged with external organizations. Ministers took the opportunity to discuss areas that impact the growth of tourism in Canada, such as limited transportation connectivity in some regions, barriers to raising private capital for investments, fees and regulations impacting the competitiveness of domestic air travel, and associated challenges including the seasonal nature of tourism. Recognizing the critical importance of the link between tourism and transportation, there was a desire to invite the Federal Minister of Transport to next year’s CCTM meeting.

In 2025, the CCTM will seek to refresh the mandates of the Working Groups to ensure their work addresses emerging priorities while effectively leveraging inter-governmental collaboration. To that end, jurisdictions will be focusing on the responsiveness and preparedness of the sector to emergency events, and ensuring capacity for strong economic growth of the industry. Efforts will be made to look at new mandate areas from different angles, while also engaging broadly across the sector to ensure CCTM priorities align with industry.

Canada’s provinces and territories continue to showcase their diverse tourism offerings globally, ranging from parks and attractions in the great outdoors, to major festivals and events, and Indigenous tourism. Successes are evident with Canada’s overall position on the World Economic Forum’s Travel & Tourism Development Index improving to 11th place in the 2024 ranking, up from 13th place in 2021. Going forward, ministers are keen to work collaboratively to tackle persistent issues and showcase Canada’s leadership in tourism on the world stage.

Marie-Justine Torres
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Tourism and Minister responsible for the Economic Development Agency of Canada for the Regions of Quebec
613-327-5918
marie-justine.torresames@ised-isde.gc.ca

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

Amber Edgerton
Press Secretary, Office of the Minister of Tourism and Sport
Government of Alberta
780-222-6113
amber.edgerton@gov.ab.ca

MIL OSI Canada News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Jacksonville Felon Pleads Guilty To Possessing A Firearm

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

Jacksonville, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Christopher O’Neal Houser (44, Jacksonville) has pleaded guilty to possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. Houser faces a maximum penalty of up to 15 years in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been scheduled.

According to court documents, on February 2, 2024, Houser sold a sawed-off shotgun to a convicted felon. At the time that he possessed and sold the shotgun, Houser had a prior felony conviction (July 2019) for possessing methamphetamine. As a convicted felon he is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition under federal law. Houser also has prior convictions for committing sodomy in 2001, and for misdemeanor battery in 2019.

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Brenna Falzetta.

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 safe 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.

MIL Security OSI –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Grassley and Bipartisan Senators Advocate for Veterans by Pushing for C&P Exam Improvements

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley
WASHINGTON – Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) today led a bipartisan letter to the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) demanding answers on the steps it is taking to ensure veterans’ access to quality, timely compensation and pension examinations (C&P exams) amid allegations contracted services and insufficient federal oversight have negatively impacted veterans. Joining Grassley are Sens. Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.) and Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.).
“[T]he overall management and oversight of VA vendors that provide C&P exams must improve. As the department relies more on contracted examiners, it should also remain committed to ensuring that veterans are properly looked after,” the senators wrote.
“The Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2024, requires the department to provide oversight of C&P exams and to apply standards of timeliness and quality performance for [Veterans Health Administration] examiners and your contracted vendors. It also requires a mechanism for veterans, such as the ones described in this correspondence, to lodge complaints with the [Veterans Benefits Administration] to provide for a resolution to the unnecessary barriers put in front of our veterans. As we await the report from the department, our concerns for veterans persist,” they concluded.
Grassley and his colleagues cited the following reported issues riddling C&P exam processes:
VHA examiners are operating under limited capacity. A Jasper County, Iowa veteran said the VA expected him to travel 97 miles one way for a C&P exam rather than see a provider in nearby Des Moines.
Contracted vendors are mismanaging appointments. A contractor assigned a Rindge, New Hampshire veteran to an appointment in Maine. When the veteran explained he couldn’t attend appointments there, the contractor suspended his claim.
Contracted vendors are not maintaining their facilities. The VA Office of the Inspector General (OIG) found some contractor facilities are noncompliant with the Americans Disabilities Act, as well as Occupational Safety and Health Administration standards.
The VA is not conducting proper oversight of contracted employees. The VBA said it cannot verify subcontracts into which exam vendors enter. While the VA must at minimum verify the contractors, the VA OIG found the department has not complied with contractor vetting requirements.
Read the full letter HERE.
-30-

MIL OSI USA News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Q&A: Breast Cancer – 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed in her lifetime

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley
Q: Is early detection and treatment for breast cancer moving in the right direction?
A: As a lead sponsor of the bipartisan Breast and Cervical Cancer Treatment Act of 2000, I’m glad to see measurable strides indicating early detection and breast screenings are helping to lower female death rates from breast cancer. The 24-year-old federal law expanded on earlier legislation that directed the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to create the National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program (NBCCEDP). Our bill allowed states to offer patients diagnosed with cancer under this federal program to access treatment services through Medicaid. It provides a lifeline of hope for tens of thousands of patients who otherwise wouldn’t be able to afford timely access to cancer screening, diagnostics and treatment. In 2023, the federal program provided cancer screening and diagnostic services to 273,989 women, diagnosing 1,761 invasive breast cancers. Although we’ve made progress in the battle against breast cancer, more work remains. The National Cancer Institute estimates 310,720 Americans will be diagnosed with breast cancer in 2024 and 42,250 people will lose their battle to the disease. The CDC says breast cancer is still the second most common cancer among women in the United States, following skin cancer diagnoses. Breast cancer also is the second leading cause of cancer death among women, following only lung cancer. Raising public awareness is central to advancing strides for life-saving prevention, detection and treatment.
Losing a beloved mother, wife, aunt or sister to breast cancer is a devastating loss to families in communities across the country. I encourage Iowans to check in with their loved ones. Take advantage of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month to prompt a friend or family member to make their screening appointment. Non-invasive mammography screenings can alert health care providers long before symptoms arise. A recent FDA rule requires mammography facilities to include a breast density assessment as part of a patient’s medical report. Having this information can help lead to better patient outcomes. My wife Barbara is a 37-year breast cancer survivor. She credits early detection for putting her on the road to healing and recovery.
Q: What efforts have you led to help cancer patients survive and thrive?
A: From my consistent support for breast cancer research, including the Department of Defense Breast Cancer Research Program, I also steered bipartisan legislation across the finish line to enact the Lymphedema Treatment Act that closes a coverage gap for Medicare patients for physician-prescribed compression therapy items, including for breast cancer survivors. I’m a vocal champion for rural health care initiatives to ensure patients in Rural America aren’t left behind, such as expanded medical residency positions to grow Iowa’s health care workforce and efforts to strengthen stability and security for rural hospitals and clinics that are the safety net providers for millions of Americans. From the Senate Finance Committee, which has jurisdiction over federal health care programs, I champion policies to help ensure rural hospitals, local pharmacies and health care clinics keep their doors open for the community. I also keep the spotlight shining on market-driven solutions to reduce drug costs and lower barriers to care, such as expanding telehealth services and cutting red tape for kids with complex medical needs. Oncology patients can avoid the expense and tiring experience of a long road trip by seeing health care providers via the convenience and flexibility provided by a telehealth appointment. The bipartisan infrastructure law I supported is helping expand internet access needed for rural health clinics to provide telehealth services, including diagnosis and prescribing medicine. I’ve also joined a bipartisan effort to push for an expansion of Medicare coverage for telehealth services and make permanent pandemic-era telehealth flexibilities. I’ll continue pushing to lower barriers to care and raise awareness so that the one in eight women diagnosed with breast cancer survives and thrives to enjoy a high quality of life for years to come.
October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Free or low-cost screening services are available for eligible recipients, learn more at https://www.cdc.gov/breast-cervical-cancer-screening/about/screenings.html#IA

MIL OSI USA News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Natural Gas Producer Agrees to Settlement to Reduce Emissions in New Mexico

Source: United States Attorneys General 7

Settlement Includes $9.4M Civil Penalty and Compliance Measures that Will Result in Reduction of Over 113,000 Tons’ Worth of CO2 Pollution

The Justice Department, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and New Mexico Environment Department (NMED) today announced a settlement with Hilcorp Energy Company resolving Clean Air Act and New Mexico state law violations at the company’s oil and gas production operations in New Mexico.

Under the settlement, Hilcorp agreed to pay a civil penalty of $9.4 million for violations resulting from Hilcorp’s failure to reduce emissions during well completion operations. The civil penalty will be split between the U.S. and the State of New Mexico. In addition, the company must employ an EPA-approved third-party auditor to ensure compliance with all applicable Clean Air Act and New Mexico Air Quality Control Act requirements.

Hilcorp is further directed to account for the excess volatile organic compound (VOC) and methane emissions released through improper well completions by replacing, on a faster timeline than federal regulations require, old process control equipment with equipment that does not emit air pollution. This mitigation project will occur on Tribal lands of the Jicarilla Apache Nation Reservation, in Rio Arriba County, and on Navajo Nation Off-Reservation Trust Land in San Juan and Sandoval counties; all of these areas have potential environmental justice concerns.

The work that Hilcorp will do under this agreement will result in the equivalent of over 113,000 tons of reduced carbon dioxide emissions over the next three years, similar to the number of reductions achieved by taking 24,000 cars off the road for one year. The settlement will also eliminate nearly 583 tons of VOC emissions annually.

The case is the first to address violations of the Clean Air Act New Source Performance Standards covering well completions following hydraulic fracturing, commonly referred to as “fracking.”

“Hilcorp is a large, sophisticated natural gas producer and should know better than to violate Clean Air Act requirements to capture and control gas produced as a result of fracking,” said Assistant Attorney General Todd Kim of the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division. “We are committed to upholding the rule of law and holding industry accountable. Today’s settlement importantly includes commitments to make infrastructure upgrades that will result in significant reductions of methane and VOC emissions.”

“Oil and gas production results in significant air pollution, including emissions of methane that are one of the leading sources of near-term climate change, which makes today’s settlement with Hilcorp Energy a huge win for the environment and the planet,” said Assistant Administrator David M. Uhlmann of EPA’s Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance. “EPA is requiring Hilcorp to pay a $9.4 million penalty and make substantial investments in Clean Air Act compliance, which will reduce climate damaging emissions and improve air quality for all New Mexico residents, including communities with environmental justice concerns.”

“This settlement holds one of the San Juan Basin’s largest polluters accountable for their contribution to climate change and ozone pollution,” said Secretary James Kenney of the New Mexico Environment Department. “If we want to make New Mexico’s air safe for future generations then Houston-based Hilcorp Energy Corporation executives need to step up their game and comply with federal and state rules.”

Federal Clean Air Act and New Mexico state air regulations require oil and gas producers to capture gas that flows back to the surface following fracking using equipment that can accommodate flowback and to implement a reduced emission completion control, commonly referred to as a green completion. Producers have several green completion options to choose from. If none are technically feasible, producers may route the captured gas to a pollution control device like a flare.

Based on EPA’s and NMED’s investigations, the U.S. and the state allege that Hilcorp conducted at least 192 well completion operations in Rio Arriba and San Juan counties from Aug. 2, 2017, through Aug. 1, 2019.

At 145 of these well completions, Hilcorp captured none of the gas and instead released into the atmosphere all gas that flowed back following fracking. At the remainder of well completions, Hilcorp captured a portion of the gas and directed it to a flare but did not demonstrate that all green completion options were infeasible. Hilcorp’s actions resulted in thousands of tons of harmful methane and VOC emissions being released into the environment. Methane is a climate super pollutant and potent greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change, and VOCs adversely affect human health in multiple ways, including being involved in the formation of ground level ozone.

Hilcorp is one of the nation’s largest privately-owned oil and gas exploration and production companies, and a top producer of natural gas in New Mexico from 2018-2021. New Mexico is one of the top ten producing states for natural gas in the United States for 2018-2023. In 2022, on-shore oil and gas industry data reported to EPA showed that Hilcorp’s San Juan Basin operation emitted the most methane in the U.S. among all oil and gas operations.

The settlement is part of EPA’s Mitigating Climate Change National Enforcement and Compliance Initiative, which focuses, in part, on reducing methane emissions from oil and gas and landfill sources. Like all EPA’s national enforcement initiatives, the Mitigating Climate Change initiative prioritizes communities already overburdened by pollution and other potential environmental justice concerns.

More information on the settlement agreement is available on EPA’s Hilcorp Energy Company webpage.

The consent decree was filed with the U.S. District Court for the District of New Mexico and is subject to a 30-day comment period. Information on providing public comment and the complaint and proposed consent decree are available on the Justice Department’s website at http://www.justice.gov/enrd/consent-decrees.

EPA and NMED investigated the case.

Attorneys of the Environment and Natural Resources Division’s Environmental Enforcement Section are handling the case.

MIL Security OSI –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Duckworth Visits Chicago State University to Discuss Efforts to Support Student Parents

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Illinois Tammy Duckworth
October 17, 2024
[CHICAGO, IL] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) today visited Chicago State University (CSU) to tour their campus child care center and meet with Chicago Alderwoman Michelle Harris, Illinois State Representative Marcus Evans Jr. (IL-HD-33), CSU leadership and parents. Last month, Duckworth reintroduced her Child Care Access Means Parents in Schools (CCAMPIS) Reauthorization Act, legislation which builds on her previous efforts to help increase access to on-campus child care for the more than 4 million parenting students currently enrolled in postsecondary education programs. Duckworth and University leadership also discussed funding for CSU, including $800,000 in Congressionally Directed Spending Duckworth secured for the University. Photos from today’s visit are available on the Senator’s website. “As college costs continue to skyrocket, we can’t simply stay on the sidelines as it gets even harder for parenting students to afford higher education,” said Duckworth. “The more than 4 million college students who are also raising children already have enough to worry about—child care should not be one of them. It was great to visit Chicago State today and see the University’s efforts to support its students to help them provide a better, stronger future for their families.” The CCAMPIS Reauthorization Act would help increase the rate of parenting students attending postsecondary education by reauthorizing and fully funding the only federal program that exclusively supports on-campus child care services and ensure the U.S. Department of Education is meeting the needs of parenting students. Duckworth originally introduced this legislation when she was in the U.S. House of Representatives. In Fiscal Year 2023, Duckworth secured $800,000 in federal funding through a Congressionally Directed Spending Request for Chicago State University. This federal investment supported redesigning the CSU curriculum and increasing access to the internet by improving and expanding computer facilities. In August, Duckworth and U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) secured $22.7 million for the Strengthening Predominately Black Institutions (PBI) program as a part of their Illinois priorities for FY25 advancing through the Senate Appropriations Committee. This funding will support the Strengthening PBIs program by helping to expand their capacity to serve low- and middle-income students, especially Black students. Chicago State University is a PBI. Chicago State University is a predominantly black public university in Chicago. It includes an honors program for undergraduates, and offers bachelors and masters degrees in the arts and sciences. CSU was founded in 1867 as the Cook County Normal School, an innovative teachers college.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Grassley and Bipartisan Senators Advocate for Veterans by Pushing for C&P Exam Improvements

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley
WASHINGTON – Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) today led a bipartisan letter to the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) demanding answers on the steps it is taking to ensure veterans’ access to quality, timely compensation and pension examinations (C&P exams) amid allegations contracted services and insufficient federal oversight have negatively impacted veterans. Joining Grassley are Sens. Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.) and Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.).
“[T]he overall management and oversight of VA vendors that provide C&P exams must improve. As the department relies more on contracted examiners, it should also remain committed to ensuring that veterans are properly looked after,” the senators wrote.
“The Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2024, requires the department to provide oversight of C&P exams and to apply standards of timeliness and quality performance for [Veterans Health Administration] examiners and your contracted vendors. It also requires a mechanism for veterans, such as the ones described in this correspondence, to lodge complaints with the [Veterans Benefits Administration] to provide for a resolution to the unnecessary barriers put in front of our veterans. As we await the report from the department, our concerns for veterans persist,” they concluded.
Grassley and his colleagues cited the following reported issues riddling C&P exam processes:
VHA examiners are operating under limited capacity. A Jasper County, Iowa veteran said the VA expected him to travel 97 miles one way for a C&P exam rather than see a provider in nearby Des Moines.
Contracted vendors are mismanaging appointments. A contractor assigned a Rindge, New Hampshire veteran to an appointment in Maine. When the veteran explained he couldn’t attend appointments there, the contractor suspended his claim.
Contracted vendors are not maintaining their facilities. The VA Office of the Inspector General (OIG) found some contractor facilities are noncompliant with the Americans Disabilities Act, as well as Occupational Safety and Health Administration standards.
The VA is not conducting proper oversight of contracted employees. The VBA said it cannot verify subcontracts into which exam vendors enter. While the VA must at minimum verify the contractors, the VA OIG found the department has not complied with contractor vetting requirements.
Read the full letter HERE.
-30-

MIL OSI USA News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Q&A: Breast Cancer – 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed in her lifetime

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley
Q: Is early detection and treatment for breast cancer moving in the right direction?
A: As a lead sponsor of the bipartisan Breast and Cervical Cancer Treatment Act of 2000, I’m glad to see measurable strides indicating early detection and breast screenings are helping to lower female death rates from breast cancer. The 24-year-old federal law expanded on earlier legislation that directed the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to create the National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program (NBCCEDP). Our bill allowed states to offer patients diagnosed with cancer under this federal program to access treatment services through Medicaid. It provides a lifeline of hope for tens of thousands of patients who otherwise wouldn’t be able to afford timely access to cancer screening, diagnostics and treatment. In 2023, the federal program provided cancer screening and diagnostic services to 273,989 women, diagnosing 1,761 invasive breast cancers. Although we’ve made progress in the battle against breast cancer, more work remains. The National Cancer Institute estimates 310,720 Americans will be diagnosed with breast cancer in 2024 and 42,250 people will lose their battle to the disease. The CDC says breast cancer is still the second most common cancer among women in the United States, following skin cancer diagnoses. Breast cancer also is the second leading cause of cancer death among women, following only lung cancer. Raising public awareness is central to advancing strides for life-saving prevention, detection and treatment.
Losing a beloved mother, wife, aunt or sister to breast cancer is a devastating loss to families in communities across the country. I encourage Iowans to check in with their loved ones. Take advantage of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month to prompt a friend or family member to make their screening appointment. Non-invasive mammography screenings can alert health care providers long before symptoms arise. A recent FDA rule requires mammography facilities to include a breast density assessment as part of a patient’s medical report. Having this information can help lead to better patient outcomes. My wife Barbara is a 37-year breast cancer survivor. She credits early detection for putting her on the road to healing and recovery.
Q: What efforts have you led to help cancer patients survive and thrive?
A: From my consistent support for breast cancer research, including the Department of Defense Breast Cancer Research Program, I also steered bipartisan legislation across the finish line to enact the Lymphedema Treatment Act that closes a coverage gap for Medicare patients for physician-prescribed compression therapy items, including for breast cancer survivors. I’m a vocal champion for rural health care initiatives to ensure patients in Rural America aren’t left behind, such as expanded medical residency positions to grow Iowa’s health care workforce and efforts to strengthen stability and security for rural hospitals and clinics that are the safety net providers for millions of Americans. From the Senate Finance Committee, which has jurisdiction over federal health care programs, I champion policies to help ensure rural hospitals, local pharmacies and health care clinics keep their doors open for the community. I also keep the spotlight shining on market-driven solutions to reduce drug costs and lower barriers to care, such as expanding telehealth services and cutting red tape for kids with complex medical needs. Oncology patients can avoid the expense and tiring experience of a long road trip by seeing health care providers via the convenience and flexibility provided by a telehealth appointment. The bipartisan infrastructure law I supported is helping expand internet access needed for rural health clinics to provide telehealth services, including diagnosis and prescribing medicine. I’ve also joined a bipartisan effort to push for an expansion of Medicare coverage for telehealth services and make permanent pandemic-era telehealth flexibilities. I’ll continue pushing to lower barriers to care and raise awareness so that the one in eight women diagnosed with breast cancer survives and thrives to enjoy a high quality of life for years to come.
October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Free or low-cost screening services are available for eligible recipients, learn more at https://www.cdc.gov/breast-cervical-cancer-screening/about/screenings.html#IA

MIL OSI USA News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: October 17th, 2024 JEC Chairman Martin Heinrich Hosts “Pro-Worker, Pro-Business Opportunities” Roundtable

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for New Mexico Martin Heinrich
PHOTOS & VIDEO
Heinrich highlights how federal legislation is expanding pathways to in-demand jobs in New Mexico
ALBUQUERQUE — U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Chairman of the U.S. Joint Economic Committee (JEC), hosted a “Pro-Worker, Pro-Business Opportunities” roundtable to talk directly with New Mexicans about how federal legislation he helped pass into law is creating careers in high-demand sectors and strengthening New Mexico’s health care, skilled trades, early childhood education, and union workforce.

Heinrich Hosts “Pro-Worker, Pro-Business Opportunities” Roundtable on October 17, 2024.
“The manufacturing and clean energy renaissance driven by historic investments from the Infrastructure Law, the Inflation Reduction Act, and the CHIPS and Science Act is creating career opportunities across New Mexico. We need to build on this momentum by expanding access to apprenticeships, supporting new, high-quality jobs in the building and skilled trades, growing pathways to health care careers, and strengthening our early childhood education workforce. I will continue fighting to address workforce shortages, build the middle class, grow our economy, and provide more New Mexicans with the careers they can build their families around in their home communities,” said Heinrich.
Thanks to recently enacted legislation that Heinrich helped pass into law, like the Inflation Reduction Act and Infrastructure Law, New Mexico is now at the center of a clean energy “manufacturing renaissance,” which is creating hundreds of jobs in New Mexico that people can build their families around.
Heinrich discussed his work with community leaders to create more pathways to in-demand careers, including through jobs training and registered apprenticeship and pre-apprenticeship programs. He also highlighted the success of the domestic manufacturing tax credits in the Inflation Reduction Act and CHIPS and Science Act that have expanded clean energy and semiconductor manufacturing in New Mexico.
Through his role as Chairman of the U.S. Joint Economic Committee (JEC), Heinrich has held hearings on job training in the clean energy sector, the domestic boom in manufacturing, and investing in early childhood education. Heinrich has also released reports on growing registered apprenticeship programs, job training for the clean energy transition, the manufacturing renaissance, addressing rural health worker shortages, the economic benefits of early childhood education, employing women in the clean energy sector, and growing the labor force in New Mexico.
Heinrich has long been committed to creating new pathways to careers for New Mexicans in the communities where they grew up, while tackling shortages in in-demand sectors like health care and early childhood education.
Heinrich introduced the Apprenticeship Pathways Act, legislation to create pathways to careers for high school students by expanding access to apprenticeship programs for occupations with high need, including the building trades, healthcare, manufacturing, technology, telecommunications, and early childhood education.
Earlier this year, Heinrich introduced the Pre-Apprenticeships To Hardhats (PATH) Act, legislation to strengthen the pipeline for careers in New Mexico, address rising workforce shortages, and grow the state’s economy through quality pre-apprenticeship programs.
In March, Heinrich introduced the Providing Resources and Opportunities for Health Education and Learning (PRO-HEAL) Act, legislation that will tackle the health care provider shortage in New Mexico and nationwide by expanding pathways to high-quality, in-demand health care careers that medical professionals can access in their communities. Specifically, the PRO-HEAL Act addresses medical provider shortages by incentivizing states and institutions of higher education to expand or create health care provider pipeline programs, particularly in underserved and rural communities. The legislation is inspired by the success of the Combined BA/MD Degree Program at the University of New Mexico, where over 65% of students who have graduated from their program practice medicine in New Mexico.
Last year, Heinrich introduced the Pathways to Health Careers Act, legislation that reauthorizes and modernizes the Health Profession Opportunity Grant (HPOG) program to help address health care shortages in New Mexico and across the country and create pathways to high-quality, in-demand health care careers.
The HPOG program has a proven track record of successfully educating workers for jobs in the health care industry, while also providing career coaching, job placement, and a mix of other support services. The Pathways to Health Careers Act would restart and expand the HPOG Program, providing $425 million to make HPOG available nationwide from FY2024 through FY2028 and includes set asides for Tribes and U.S. Territories.
In 2021, Heinrich introduced the Championing Apprenticeships for New Careers and Employees in Technology (CHANCE in Tech) Act, legislation to create earlier pathways to high-paying careers in the information technology (IT) industry.
Investments in Clean Energy and Advanced Manufacturing:
Heinrich has been fighting hard to pass legislation and secure investments that are growing the state’s economy, building the middle class, and expanding high-quality jobs New Mexicans can build their families around.
In 2022, Heinrich helped author and pass into law the landmark Inflation Reduction Act,which has created a manufacturing renaissance in the state and established New Mexico at the center of the nation’s clean energy future. Heinrich marked the two-year anniversary of the legislation being signed into law in August, highlighting how its incentives have expanded and spurred a number of new clean energy projects across New Mexico.
Earlier this year, Heinrich highlighted $20 million from the Inflation Reduction Act for Pajarito Powder to scale production of components for electrolyzers and fuel cells. Heinrich invited the U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer Granholm to tour the facilities of Pajarito Powder in Albuquerque, N.M.
In June, the N.M. Delegation welcomed $23.9 million from the CHIPS and Science Act for SolAero, an Albuquerque, N.M.-based manufacturing company, to increase its production of compound semiconductors for spacecraft and satellites, as part of an expansion and modernization of their facility. Heinrich, Luján, and Stansbury, along with Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham and Albuquerque Mayor Tim Keller, welcomed U.S. Deputy Secretary of Commerce Don Graves and White House CHIPS Coordinator Ryan Harper to New Mexico to highlight this investment.
In April, Heinrich and Luján welcomed Energy Secretary Granholm to break ground on a new 216,000-square-foot Array Technologies manufacturing campus — a $50+ million investment located on Albuquerque’s Westside — which will employ over 300 additional New Mexicans to facilitate the production, assembly, design, engineering, and customer service of solar tracking technology.
That same day, Heinrich, Granholm, and Vasquez participated in a ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrating the production of the first wind towers coming off the Arcosa Wind Towers manufacturing line. The ribbon-cutting ceremony came nearly nine months after Heinrich welcomed President Biden to the Belén manufacturing facility — a $60 million investment that will have a $314 million economic impact and create 250 jobs in the region.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Regulator announces inquiry into Leicester disability charity
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government Non-Ministerial Departments

The Charity Commission, the regulator of charities for England and Wales, has opened a statutory inquiry into Leicestershire Centre for Integrated Living Limited.
The charity supports disabled people by promoting inclusion and accessibility in everyday living.

The charity was already under investigation as part of the Commission’s ‘double defaulters’ class inquiry, after it was identified as persistently late in filing its accounting information.

Upon further engagement with the charity, serious concerns arose regarding its general management and governance. The Commission has therefore escalated its engagement to a separate inquiry to investigate:  

The extent to which the charity’s trustees are complying with their legal duties in respect of the administration, governance and management of their charity.

Whether the trustees have adequate financial and strategic oversight of their charity, including the management and supervision of staff.

Whether the charity is being managed in accordance with its governing document and operating for the public benefit.

The trustees’ compliance with their legal obligations for the content, preparation and filing of the charity’s accounts and other information or returns.

The scope of the inquiry may be varied if new evidence comes to light. 

It is the Commission’s policy, after it has concluded an inquiry, to publish a report detailing what issues the inquiry looked at, what actions were undertaken as part of the inquiry and what the outcomes were. 

ENDS

Notes to editors  

The Charity Commission is the independent, non-ministerial government department that registers and regulates charities in England and Wales. Its ambition is to be an expert regulator that is fair, balanced, and independent so that charity can thrive. This ambition will help to create and sustain an environment where charities further build public trust and ultimately fulfil their essential role in enhancing lives and strengthening society. 

This statutory inquiry was opened on 13 September 2024.

On 25 July 2022 the Commission placed the charity into the Double Defaulter Class Inquiry for charities that are in default of their statutory obligations to meet reporting requirements by failing to file their annual documents (annual returns, reports and accounts) for two or more years in the last five years.

Press office

Email pressenquiries@charitycommission.gov.uk

Out of hours press office contact number: 07785 748787

Share this page

The following links open in a new tab

Share on Facebook (opens in new tab)

Share on Twitter (opens in new tab)

Updates to this page

Published 18 October 2024
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Casey Announces More than $18.4 Million for Workforce Development, Community Revitalization in Pennsylvania Coal Communities

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Pennsylvania Bob Casey

Recipient

Grant

Project

Bedford County Development Association

$498,840

Bedford County Business Park II -Site Preparation

Bedford County Technical Center

$50,000

Bedford County Technical Center: Expanding Opportunity in Coal Impacted Appalachia

Catalyst Connection

$2,000,000

Pennsylvania Career Pathways to Advanced Manufacturing: “Forging Your Future”

Center for Employment Opportunities

$50,000

Transitional Employment for Justice Impacted Pittsburgh Residents

Center for Population Health

$751,057

Growth of Community Health Workers inCambria/Somerset Counties, Pennsylvania

Corry Community Development Corporation D/B/A Impact Corry (nonprofit)

$887,000

Corry City Center Trail Link

Enterprise Development Center of Erie County, Inc.

$2,000,000

Ironworks Square: Smart Redevelopment in Coal Impacted Regions

Greene County Commissioners

$50,000

Greene County Barriers to Workforce Study

IUP Research Institute

$452,326

NWPAMade — Galvanizing and empowering the region’s creative economy

JARI Growth Fund, Inc.

$1,000,000

Startup Alleghenies Ecosystem Capital and Technical Assistance Expansion – Capital

JARI Growth Fund, Inc.

$879,253

Startup Alleghenies Ecosystem Capital and Technical Assistance Expansion- Technical Assistance

Jewish Healthcare Foundation

$1,990,867

Revitalizing Community Jobs—Building, Training and Supporting the Frontline Workforce for Nursing Homes in Pennsylvania

Lycoming County

$1,867,395

Susquehanna River Walk Extension Trail Construction Project

O.S. Johnson Technical Institute

$50,000

Planning for Vehicle Maintenance Technology Jobs of the Future

Office of Child Development, University of Pittsburgh

$49,751

Two-Generational Literacy to Strengthen the Workforce Pipeline

Pittsburgh Robotics Network (PRN)

$750,000

Maturing Appalachia’s Robotics Workforce

Saint Vincent College (SVC)

$662,672

Equipment and Technology for a Nursing Education and Lab Facility at Saint Vincent College

Screen Arts Institute

$400,000

The Broadcast Arts Initiative

The ClearWater Conservancy of Central Pennsylvania, Inc.

$2,000,000

ClearWater Community Conservation Center Ecotourism, Agritourism, and Agribusiness Hub

The University of Scranton

$1,321,980

The University of Scranton: Technology Driven Transformation in Workforce Development and Innovation

Westmoreland Hospital

$769,193

Building an Innovative Nursing Workforce Model: Bridging the Gap from Student to Expert

MIL OSI USA News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Government praises important progress on East Coast clean-up

Source: New Zealand Government

Important progress is being made on cleaning-up and strengthening resilience in the Tairāwhiti region, 18 months on from the devastating weather events in 2023, Forestry Minister Todd McClay said today.

To date the Government has committed $110 million resulting in approximately 440,000 tonnes of slash and debris being removed from Tairāwhiti.

“I want to acknowledge the significant impact on the region and local people and praise the clean-up efforts of all those involved. There is strong momentum and coordination of work in the region across local and central government, and the Forestry and Agriculture sectors in addressing the impacts of last year’s cyclones,” Mr McClay says.

In response to Cyclones Hale and Gabrielle in January and February 2023, the previous Government initiated the Ministerial Inquiry into Land Use in Tairāwhiti/Gisborne and Wairoa. It resulted in 49 recommendations to both reduce risk and strengthen resilience in the region.

“This Government is focused on delivering tangible outcomes through the recently established Tairāwhiti Forestry Action Group and Gisborne District Council-led Transition Advisory Group.

“The Tairāwhiti Forestry Action Group made up of forestry owners, farming interests, Māori landowners and council officials, is working to accelerate the clean-up in the region, remove debris and sediment, address the legacy issue of wood that poses future risk and help to implement best practice for forestry.

“The Gisborne District Council-led Transition Advisory Group is working together to support landowners make the changes required to a more sustainable land-use.

“Central government will continue to stay closely engaged in regionally led initiatives through existing work programmes. This will ensure efforts to align with Government priorities and support the Crown’s Treaty relationships.”

“Forestry has an important role in Tairāwhiti, but it will be done differently in the future to ensure risks are well managed.

“The Government recognises the importance of the forestry sector to the regional economy. Proposed changes to the National Environmental Standards for Commercial Forestry will enable council to implement rules to ensure land use is appropriate, but also give certainty and confidence to the forestry sector.”

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: MEDIA AVAILABILIY: Coast Guard, partners to discuss rescue of 17-year-old kayaker

Source: United States Coast Guard

10/17/2024 06:15 PM EDT

WHO: Coast Guard Sector Honolulu, Honolulu Fire Department, Honolulu Ocean Safety Department WHAT: Holding joint press briefing about rescue of missing 17-year-old kayaker off Waikiki WHEN: 1 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 17, 2024 WHERE: Hale Kinai Ahi Auditorium, Honolulu Fire Department Headquarters, 636 South St., Honolulu, HI 96813

For breaking news follow us on twitter @USCGHawaiiPac

MIL Security OSI –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: $5,000 Reward for Fugitive Who Shot 3 Women on SEPTA Bus

Source: US Marshals Service

Philadelphia, PA – The U.S. Marshals Service (USMS) Eastern Pennsylvania Violent Crime Fugitive Task Force is asking for the public’s assistance in locating Raphael Ezeamaka, 18.

On October 10th, a warrant for attempt to commit criminal homicide, aggravated assaut, and criminal conspiracy was issued by the Philadelphia Police Department for Ezeamaka’s role in a shooting that took place October 8th in the 700 block of S. 57th street. After a verbal dispute on the SEPTA (Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority) Route G bus, Ezeamaka exited and fired multiple shots into the bus from the outside. 3 women were struck and transported to local hospitals where they were treated for non-life-threatening wounds. The Marshals Service Violent Crimes Fugitive Task is now assisting the Philadelphia Police in locating and apprehending Ezeamaka.

The U.S. Marshals Service is offering a $5,000 reward for information leading to Ezeamaka’s arrest. The $5,000 reward will be processed immediately upon arrest and not upon conviction.

Ezeamaka stands 5 feet 10 inches and weighs approximately 150 pounds. He has black hair and brown eyes. His last known address was in the 100 block of N. Fairview Avenue in Upper Darby, Pennsylvania.

“Anyone who purposely shoots into a crowded bus full of innocent people demonstrates an absolute disregard for human life. Apprehending Raphael Ezeamaka is paramount to public safety,” said Supervisory Deputy U.S. Marshal Robert Clark.

Tips can be called into the U.S. Marshals Philadelphia Tipline at 1-866-865-TIPS (8477) or by using the USMS Tips App.

The Eastern Pennsylvania Violent Crimes Fugitive Task Force is a team of law enforcement officers led by U.S. Marshals in Philadelphia and the surrounding counties. The task force’s objective is to seek out and arrest violent crime fugitives. Membership agencies include the Philadelphia Police Department, Pennsylvania State Parole Officers, Pennsylvania State Police, Pennsylvania Attorney General Agents, Chester Police Department, and the Bucks County Sheriff’s Office.

MIL Security OSI –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Enterprise Man Sentenced to 120 Months in Federal Prison Following Federal Gun Conviction

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

Montgomery, AL – Today, Acting United States Attorney Kevin Davidson announced that 43-year-old Steve Allen Grubbs, Jr., a resident of Enterprise, Alabama, received a sentence of 120 months in prison following his conviction for being a felon in possession of a firearm. There is no parole in the federal system. The sentencing occurred on October 16, 2024.

According to the plea agreement and other court records, in the summer of 2019, law enforcement began an investigation related to suspected drug-trafficking taking place at a residence in Daleville. After confirming their suspicions, on August 2, 2019, officers from the Daleville Police Department executed a search warrant on the residence which was associated with Grubbs at the time. Among the items seized were two handguns. Grubbs has previous felony convictions and is prohibited by federal law from possessing a firearm or ammunition. Grubbs pleaded guilty to illegally possessing the firearms on July 3, 2024.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Daleville Police Department, and Enterprise Police Department investigated this case, which Assistant United States Attorney Eric M. Counts prosecuted.

MIL Security OSI –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Puerto Rico’s Most Wanted Fugitive Arrested in Lajas, PR

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

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico – Nelson Torres-Delgado, a.k.a. “El Burro”, was arrested today in the municipality of Lajas, PR, on criminal charges related to his alleged drug trafficking and violent crimes charges in three different indictments since 2017. Torres-Delgado’s first indictment in Crim. Case No. 17-621 was issued on December 8, 2017, where he was charged in a conspiracy with 43 other individuals with drug trafficking and firearms violations. The second indictment was issued by a grand jury on May 20, 2019, in Crim. Case No. 19-307 where he was charged with 25 other individuals also with drug trafficking and firearms violations. The third indictment pending against Torres-Delgado was issued on August 21, 2024, in Crim. Case 23-273, where he was charged in a conspiracy with 51 other individuals with drug trafficking, firearms violations, and drug-related murders.

According to court documents, Nelson Torres-Delgado, 37, was the leader of a violent drug trafficking organization in Caguas and other areas, since the early 2010s. He had been a federal fugitive since 2017 and maintained control over the criminal organization as a fugitive through deadly violence and intimidation, and by engaging in violent turf wars against rival drug trafficking organizations. His methods of avoiding capture while controlling his gang included limited face-to-face contact to only the highest and most trusted leaders in his organization.

“As alleged in the indictments, Torres-Delgado was the leader of a violent, armed criminal enterprise that he controlled even as a fugitive from justice since 2017. Thanks to the tenacious efforts and collaboration of our law enforcement partners and prosecutors, he now will face justice in a United States courtroom in Puerto Rico,” said W. Stephen Muldrow, United States Attorney for the District of Puerto Rico.

“When we work together, we accomplish more and when communities come alongside us as partners in the fight against drug trafficking and violent crime, amazing things can happen,” said Joseph González, the Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s San Juan Field Office. “No one is above the law, and no one is untouchable. Especially, when the public collaborates with law enforcement. The FBI’s commitment is to the people and I look forward to continuing the work we have begun with our local partners and the support of the public.”

“This arrest is a culmination of a long-term fugitive apprehension effort of one of the most violent individuals in an effort to bolster public safety for the people of Puerto Rico,” said Christopher A. Robinson, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Miami Field Division.

Torres-Delgado is charged with drug trafficking, firearms violations, money laundering, and multiple drug-related murders. If convicted, Torres-Delgado faces up to life in prison, with the possibility of the death penalty for certain offenses. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

This arrest was led by the FBI, Puerto Rico Police Bureau (PRPB), ATF, and the United States Marshals Service (USMS).

Assistant U.S. Attorney (AUSA) and Chief of the Gang Section Alberto López-Rocafort, Deputy Chief of the Gang Section, AUSA Teresa Zapata-Valladares, and AUSAs R. Vance Eaton and Héctor Siaca Flores are prosecuting the case.

This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

###

MIL Security OSI –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Marshals Arrest Clarksville Murder Suspect

Source: US Marshals Service

Memphis, TN – Turnity Rossell, age 22, was arrested today for First Degree Murder.

On October 28, 2019, Clarksville Tennessee Police responded to a shots fired call in the area of 16 Hand Village Avenue, Clarksville, Tennessee. It was found that Serdyrin Brown, age 22, was shot there in an incident. He was taken for medical care and pronounced dead at the hospital.

On June 4, 2024, a warrant was issued for the arrest of Turnity Rossell for this crime. The warrant was for First Degree Murder and Aggravated Robbery. On September 24, 2024, this case was adopted by the U.S. Marshals Middle Tennessee Fugitive Task Force.

The Middle Tennessee Fugitive Task Force developed information that Rossell was in the Memphis, Tennessee area. On September 24, 2024, they requested that the U.S. Marshals Two Rivers Violent Fugitive Task Force assist with locating Rossell.

On October 17, 2024, the Two Rivers Task Force went to a residence near the intersection of S. Mendenhall and Colony in an effort to locate Rossell. They were aided by the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office Fugitive Apprehension Team and the Memphis Police Fugitive Apprehension Team. Rossell was located and placed under arrest. He initially tried to lie about his identity, however he soon stopped trying to mislead the Task Force investigators. Rossell was taken to the Shelby County Detention Center without incident.

The U.S. Marshals Two Rivers Violent Fugitive Task Force (TRVFTF) is a multi-agency task force within Western Tennessee. The TRVFTF has offices in Memphis and Jackson, and its membership is composed of Deputy U.S. Marshals, Shelby, Fayette, and Tipton County Sheriff’s Deputies, Memphis and Jackson Police Officers, Tennessee Department of Correction Special Agents, and the Tennessee Highway Patrol. Since 2021, the TRVFTF has captured over 2,600 violent fugitives and sexual predators.

MIL Security OSI –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: United States Attorney’s Office to Monitor Election Day Complaints

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

NASHVILLE – Acting United States Attorney Thomas J. Jaworski for the Middle District of Tennessee announced today that Criminal Chief Ben Schrader will lead the United States Attorney’s Office’s efforts in connection with the Justice Department’s nationwide Election Day Program for the upcoming November 5, 2024, general election. Criminal Chief Schrader has been appointed to serve as the District Election Officer (DEO) for the Middle District of Tennessee, and in that capacity is 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.

Acting United States Attorney Jaworski 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).

Acting United States Attorney Jaworski stated that: “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, Criminal Chief/DEO Schrader will be on duty in this District while the polls are open. He can be reached by the public at the following telephone number: (615) 736-5151.”

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 Nashville Division of the FBI, which covers the entire state of Tennessee, can be reached by the public at (865) 544-0751.

Complaints about possible violations of the federal voting rights laws can be made directly to the Civil Rights Division in Washington, DC by complaint form at https://civilrights.justice.gov/ or by phone at 800-253-3931.

Acting United States Attorney Jaworski 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.”

Please note, however, 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.

#####

MIL Security OSI –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Former NYCHA Superintendent Convicted Of Bribery And Extortion Offenses

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

In the First Trial Following a 70-Person Takedown in February 2024, Joy Harris, a Former New York City Housing Authority Superintendent, Was Convicted of Bribery and Extortion for Accepting Cash from Contractors in Exchange for Awarding Contracts

Damian Williams, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, announced that Joy Harris, a former New York City Housing Authority (“NYCHA”) superintendent, was convicted of bribery and extortion under color of official right for soliciting and accepting tens of thousands of dollars from contractors in exchange for awarding those contractors no-bid contracts at NYCHA developments. The verdict followed a one-week trial before U.S. District Judge Lewis A. Kaplan, who will sentence HARRIS on February 26, 2025.

U.S. Attorney Damian Williams said: “Corruption is an insidious crime—difficult to detect, corrosive in its effect on government agencies, and damaging to public trust in government institutions. Joy Harris’s years-long abuse of her position to demand tens of thousands of dollars in bribes betrayed her duty to NYCHA residents, the City of New York, and taxpayers. The jury’s unanimous verdict sends a clear message that those who use their public offices for personal gain will be held accountable.”

According to the evidence presented in court during the trial:

NYCHA is the largest public housing authority in the country, providing housing to New Yorkers across the City and receiving over $1.5 billion in federal funding from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (“HUD”) every year. When repairs or construction work at NYCHA housing require the use of outside contractors, services must typically be purchased via a bidding process. However, when the value of a contract was under a certain threshold, designated staff at NYCHA developments, including assistant superintendent and superintendents, could hire a contractor of their choosing without soliciting multiple bids.

HARRIS, an assistant superintendent and superintendent at four different NYCHA developments in Manhattan between 2015 and 2021, demanded and accepted cash in exchange for NYCHA contracts. She required contractors to pay bribes up front in order to be awarded the contracts or required bribe payments after the contractor finished the work and needed a NYCHA employee to sign off on the completed job so that the contractor could be paid by NYCHA. HARRIS typically demanded 10% of the contract value—between $500 and $1,000, depending on the size of the contract. In total, HARRIS demanded and accepted tens of thousands of dollars in bribes in exchange for awarding contracts worth hundreds of thousands of dollars.

* * *

HARRIS, 49, of Bushkill, Pennsylvania, was convicted of one count of federal program bribery, which carries a maximum term of 10 years in prison, and one count of extortion under color of official right, which carries a maximum term of 20 years in prison.

The maximum potential sentences in this case are prescribed by Congress and are provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the judge.

Mr. Williams praised the outstanding investigative work of the New York City Department of Investigation, U.S. Department of Homeland Security – Homeland Security Investigations (“HSI”), the HUD Office of Inspector General, and the U.S. Department of Labor – Office of Inspector General, which work together collaboratively as part of the HSI Document and Benefit Fraud Task Force, as well as the special agents and task force officers of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York.

This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (“OCDETF”) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles criminal organizations using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

Of the 70 current and former NYCHA employees charged with bribery and extortion offenses in February 2024, 55 of the defendants have now pled guilty or been convicted at trial. The charges against the remaining defendants are pending.

This case is being handled by the Office’s Public Corruption Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jerry J. Fang, Meredith Foster, Sheb Swett, Jacob R. Fiddelman, and Catherine Ghosh are in charge of the prosecution, with the assistance of Paralegal Specialists Jayda Foote and Nandita Vasantha.

MIL Security OSI –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Six defendants arrested in retail theft ring, charged with stealing and selling hundreds of thousands of dollars worth of merchandise

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

ROCHESTER, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that six defendants were arrested and charged by criminal complaint with wire fraud, conspiracy to commit wire fraud, transportation and sale of stolen goods in interstate commerce, money laundering, and conspiracy, for their roles in a retail theft ring in the Rochester, NY, area. The charges carry a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Named in the complaint are:

•              Shabon Banks, 41

•              Amanda Reeves, 40

•              Chad Lewis, Jr., 20

•              Chanc Lewis, 22

•              Dominic Sprague, 40

•              James Civiletti, 33, all of Rochester, NY.

Defendant Shabon Banks is also charged with aggravated identity theft.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Kyle P. Rossi, who is handling the case, stated that according to the criminal complaint, in November 2023, the Greece Police Department began an investigation after it became aware that serial larcenist, Shabon Banks, had been engaged in an unusually large number of transactions at the New York Gold Diamond Pawn Shop in Greece. The investigation uncovered a theft ring involving defendants Banks, Reeves, Lewis, Jr., and Lewis (the larcenists), who have been engaged in an ongoing retail theft conspiracy involving the New York Gold Diamond Pawn Shop and its operators, defendants Sprague and Civiletti, since December 2021. As part of the scheme, the larcenists stole new-in-box items from store shelves, which they then sold to Sprague, Civiletti, and others at the New York Gold Diamond Pawn Shop, for a fraction of the actual retail value. Sprague and Civiletti then resold the stolen merchandise on eBay at much higher prices, resulting in significant profits for the New York Gold Diamond Pawn Shop. The merchandise was stolen from various stores including Home Depot, Target, Lowes, Walmart, and Kohls.

Since December 7, 2021, the New York Gold Diamond Pawn Shop has purchased 37,936 new-in-box items from the larcenists on more than 670 occasions, paying the larcenists $290,000.00. The investigation determined that the New York Gold Diamond Pawn Shop paid the larcenists 30% of the actual retail value of the stolen items. Therefore, the actual losses to the victim-retailers and resulting profit to the New York Gold Diamond Pawn Shop are estimated to be much higher.

Sprague and Civiletti engaged in multiple financial transactions involving the proceeds of the fraud in violation of federal money laundering statutes. In total, between January 2022, and August 7, 2024, the New York Gold Diamond Pawn shop resold more than 48,000 new-in-box items via eBay for $2,467.847.46, the majority of which are believed to have been stolen.

The complaint is the culmination of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Erin Keegan, the Internal Revenue Service, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Thomas Fattorusso, the Greece Police Department, under the direction of Chief Michael Wood, and the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Todd Baxter.

The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.

# # # #

MIL Security OSI –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Lincoln County Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Gun Crime

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Jason L. Norman, 42, of Ranger, pleaded guilty today to being a felon in possession of a firearm.

According to court documents and statements made in court, on March 10, 2023, Norman possessed a Smith & Wesson model M&P 15 .223-caliber rifle and a Mossberg model 500A 12-gauge shotgun at his residence in Ranger.

Federal law prohibits a person with a prior felony conviction from possessing a firearm or ammunition. Norman knew he was prohibited from possessing a firearm following his felony conviction for possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance in Lincoln County Circuit Court on April 13, 2017.

Norman is scheduled to be sentenced on January 30, 2025, and faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison, up to three years of supervised release, and a $250,000 fine.

United States Attorney Will Thompson made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).

United States District Judge Thomas E. Johnston presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Timothy D. Boggess and former Assistant United States Attorney Troy D. Adams have prosecuted the case.

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.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:23-cr-94.

###

MIL Security OSI –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Jefferson City Man Sentenced for $26 Million Bank Fraud Scheme

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – A Jefferson City, Mo. man was sentenced in federal court today for a multi-million dollar bank fraud scheme that included fraudulent Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans for four businesses.

Tod Ray Keilholz, 61, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Roseann A. Ketchmark to a total sentence of 12 years in federal prison without parole.

On March 28, 2024, Keilholz pleaded guilty to one count of bank fraud, one count of money laundering, and one count of aggravated identity theft.

Keilholz was the sole owner of TRK Construction, LLC, TRK Valpo, LLC, TL Builders, LLC, and Project Design, LLC.

By pleading guilty, Keilholz admitted that he engaged in a bank fraud scheme from Jan. 1, 2018, to Jan. 7, 2021.

Prior to the bank fraud scheme, Keilholz obtained three business loans totaling $3,526,771 from Hawthorn Bank between Aug. 31, 2017, and Sept. 21, 2018. One of these loans financed the purchase of property in Valparaiso, Indiana. As Keilholz’s businesses failed, these loans fell into default and sub-contractors sued him for unpaid invoices during 2019 and 2020. In February 2020, Hawthorn Bank initiated foreclosure proceedings. Keilholz delayed the foreclosure proceedings and paid off these loans and other past due debts with fraudulent PPP loans.

The CARES Act established several new temporary programs and provided for the expansion of others to address the COVID-19 pandemic. Among these programs, the PPP authorized forgivable loans, guaranteed by the Small Business Administration, to small businesses to retain workers and maintain payroll, make mortgage interest payments, lease payments, and utility payments.

Keilholz received a total of $12,430,932 in PPP loans for his four businesses. In each of those loan applications, Keilholz admitted, he failed to disclose his ownership in the other three businesses, and made materially false and fraudulent claims in the loan applications and supporting documentation. Keilholz falsely stated the businesses were in operation on Feb. 15, 2020, and eligible for PPP loans. He inflated the income of those businesses and claimed payrolls for employees who did not exist or no longer worked for him. Additionally, Keilholz applied for a $7,818,705 PPP loan for TRK Valpo but the loan was denied by the bank.

Keilholz received a $1,706,260 PPP loan for TRK Construction, a $3,618,815 PPP loan for TL Builders, a $3,903,857 PPP loan for Project Design, and a $3,202,000 PPP loan for TRK Valpo.

Keilholz admitted that he used PPP loan proceeds for unauthorized purposes other than legitimate payroll, lease and mortgage interest, and utilities as required by the PPP. Keilholz, through TRK Construction, had accrued substantial and delinquent indebtedness to a number of lenders, and all or part of these debts were satisfied by PPP loan proceeds.

The conviction for aggravated identity theft is related to Keilholz’s use of a former TRK Construction employee whose name and Social Security number were used without his knowledge or authorization on wage reports in connection with a fraudulent PPP loan application for TRK Valpo.

Under the terms of his plea agreement, Keilholz must forfeit to the government any property involved in, or derived from the proceeds of his bank fraud scheme, including a money judgment of $12,430,932, two properties in Jefferson City, one property in Valparaiso, one property in La Porte, Ind., four vehicles (a 2020 Chevrolet Silverado, two 2021 Chevrolet Silverados, and a 2019 BMW X5), a 2020 John Deer ZTrak, a 2020 John Deere Tractor, a Kubota Compact Track Loader, a Gents 43mm IWC Schaffhausen Perpetual Chronograph wristwatch, two Gents stainless steel Rolex Sea-Dweller self-winding automatic diver’s watches, and a Gents Citizen Eco-Drive Radio-controlled world time self-winding automatic watch with sapphire crystal.

This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael S. Oliver. It was investigated by the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System, Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, Office of Inspector General; the Small Business Administration, Office of Inspector General; the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration; the FBI; and IRS-Criminal Investigation.

MIL Security OSI –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Pierceland — Pierceland RCMP investigating sudden death

Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

On October 16, 2024, at approximately 6:20 p.m., Pierceland RCMP received a report of a sudden death at a residence on the Mudie Lake First Nation. Officers immediately responded and located the individual, who was declared deceased by EMS at the scene.

Pierceland RCMP continue to investigate this sudden death with the assistance of the Saskatchewan Coroners Service.

Currently, the investigation has not identified a risk to public safety. Updates will be provided when available.

MIL Security OSI –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Craik — Craik RCMP: motorists can expect delays on Highway #2

Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

Craik RCMP are currently at the scene of a serious collision on Highway #2 west of Chamberlain, approximately one kilometer north of the Highway #2 and Highway #733 junction.

Both southbound and northbound lanes are currently closed.

Detours are in place but motorists should expect delays in the area. Please follow the instructions of emergency personnel on scene.

Please visit the Highway Hotline for road closure updates. Further details will be provided as possible.

MIL Security OSI –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Fifteenth Defendant Sentenced for Prison Drug Conspiracy

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

Gulfport, Miss. – A Long Beach, Mississippi man was sentenced to 99 months in federal prison for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute a controlled substance.

Johnson Tran, 47, was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Gulfport.

According to court documents and information presented to the Court, in 2018, agents with the DEA received information from the Bureau of Prisons (BOP) that drug laced letters and greeting cards were being sent to inmates in the Bureau of Prisons from the Southern District of Mississippi. The drug laced letters and cards were intercepted at prisons in Illinois, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey.

DEA and BOP officials were able to determine that inmates were ordering the drug laced letters and cards from Johnson Tran via prison email accounts and jail calls. The inmates would typically order the drugs using coded language. The letters or greeting cards were laced with FUB-AMB and 5F-MDMB-PICA, which are Schedule I controlled substances and synthetic cannabinoids. Many of them were sent through the postal service in Gulfport, Mississippi, and Tran’s base of operation was Harrison County, Mississippi.

Agents were also able to determine through the review of financial records that Tran would ultimately receive payment for the drugs that he sent into prison via U.S. Department of Treasury checks drawn from the inmate’s prison accounts and/or peer-to-peer money transfers from associates or family members of the inmates. When Tran’s associates would receive funds on Tran’s behalf, Tran would give them a portion of the funds they received as payment for their services.

In addition to Johnson Tran, fourteen other defendants have now been sentenced in the case:

Chaze Lowery and William Hernandez previously pled guilty to conspiracy to commit money laundering. Lowery was sentenced to 48 months in prison and Hernandez was sentenced to 87 months in prison. Jermaine Jones pled guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute a controlled substance and was sentenced to 62 months imprisonment.

Jorge Pena, Trae Short, Bobby Huneycutt, Clarence Plato, Ryan Douglas, Salomon Ayala, Stanley Spriggs, Corderius Trammell, Jonathan Estrada, Marcus Thames, and Allen Butler all pled guilty to conspiring to commit an offense against the United States by conspiring to introduce contraband to a federal correctional facility. Their sentences ranged from time served to 52 months in prison.

Two additional defendants have pled guilty and are awaiting sentencing:

Ryan Schmittaur pled guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute a controlled substance. He will be sentenced on October 22, 2024, and faces a maximum of 20 years in prison. Ashley Magee pled guilty to engaging in an unlicensed money transmission business by accepting and transferring money on behalf of Johnson Tran and the inmates. She will be sentenced on January 7, 2025, and faces a maximum of 5 years in prison.

U.S. Attorney Todd Gee of the Southern District of Mississippi and Assistant Special Agent in Charge Anessa Daniels-McCaw of the Drug Enforcement Administration made the announcement.

The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan Buckner.

This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor- led, intelligence driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

MIL Security OSI –

January 24, 2025

MIL-OSI USA: FEMA Extends Renewal Period for Flood Insurance Policyholders in Florida Affected by Hurricane Milton

Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

Headline: FEMA Extends Renewal Period for Flood Insurance Policyholders in Florida Affected by Hurricane Milton

FEMA Extends Renewal Period for Flood Insurance Policyholders in Florida Affected by Hurricane Milton

Extension follows grace period announcement last week for seven states affected by Helene

WASHINGTON – While renewal dates have passed for some National Flood Insurance Program policyholders in Florida who were affected by Hurricane Milton, these policyholders may be able to take steps that will renew their policy and receive coverage for flood damage.

Certain NFIP policyholders in Florida affected by Hurricane Milton now have additional time to renew their policies without a lapse in coverage. These policyholders now have until Dec. 10, 2024 to renew their policies. This is a significant extension from the standard 30-day renewal grace period.

“I’m sensitive to the fact that our policyholders are dealing with many obstacles during this period of extensive recovery in the wake of Hurricane Milton,” said Jeff Jackson, the interim Senior Executive of the NFIP. “Extending the grace period for policy renewals is one way to show our customer that we care about what they’re going through.”

Policyholders should be sure to ask their insurance agent or company about advance claims payments to help start their recovery. Advance payments may be available of up to $20,000 prior to a visit from an adjuster.

FEMA previously announced an extended grace period for policyholders in seven states affected by Helene, including Florida. Due to Hurricane Milton, this grace period will be extended for Florida policyholders based on the below schedule.

If the policy term ended on:	The grace period would have ended:	But now runs until:
Aug. 28, 2024	Sept. 26, 2024	Dec. 10, 2024
Sept. 26, 2024	Oct. 25, 2024	Dec. 10, 2024
Oct. 15, 2024	Nov. 13, 2024	Dec. 10, 2024
Nov. 1, 2024	Nov. 30, 2024	Dec. 10, 2024
Nov. 15, 2024	Dec. 14, 2024	Dec. 14, 2024

Policyholders whose NFIP policy renewal date is within this range should contact their agent or insurance company.

For example, if the original policy expiration date was Aug. 28, 2024, the policy may be renewed on or before Dec. 10, 2024. Holders of active policies can file claims for damage received from Milton if premium is paid.

Other Actions to Help Policyholders

The NFIP has extended the proof of loss requirement for policyholders who suffered flood damage from Hurricane Milton from the standard 60 days to 120 days from the date of loss.

The NFIP also authorized its Write Your Own insurance company partners and the NFIP Direct to pay claims based on the adjuster’s report without requiring policyholders to sign a proof of loss. When a policyholder seeks additional payment for any reason or disagrees with the adjuster report, they may still submit a signed proof of loss to the insurer along with supporting documentation. This can include a contractor’s estimate, bills, receipts, photographs and other related documents.

Anyone affected by Milton who has an NFIP flood insurance policy and has suffered flood damage should begin filing their claim now. Evacuated policyholders can still start their claim and provide specifics later once local officials say it’s safe to return home.

Policyholders who wish to take advantage of the grace period should contact their agent or insurance company. Those who don’t have their insurance agent or company’s contact information should call 877-336-2627 for assistance.

FEMA also encourages NFIP policyholders affected by Milton to apply for federal disaster assistance. The three ways to apply are visiting disasterassistance.gov, calling 800-621-3362 or using the FEMA App. Survivors may receive funds to help with essential items like food, water, baby formula and other emergency supplies. Funds may also be available to repair storm-related damage to homes and personal property, as well as assistance to find a temporary place to stay.

To learn more about how to file a flood insurance claim visit floodsmart.gov.

amy.ashbridge
Thu, 10/17/2024 – 21:36

MIL OSI USA News –

January 24, 2025

MIL-OSI USA: Warner Announces Launch of Ashanti Alert Website

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Commonwealth of Virginia Mark R Warner
WASHINGTON – With National Crime Prevention Month underway, U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA) today announced the launch of the Ashanti Alert website administered by the Department of Justice. The Ashanti Alert, created by a Warner-authored law, seeks to notify the public about missing or endangered adults, ages 18-64, and assist by way of a national communications network. The public website unveiled today provides information about the law and the National Ashanti Alert Network, and it includes links to state missing person programs and other resources.
“Having fought for the passage and nationwide implementation of the Ashanti Alert nationwide, I’m very proud to announce the launch of a public website that will help the public better understand how to report a missing person,” said Sen. Warner. “I’ve been proud to work closely with the Department of Justice on the launch of these resources as we continue to honor Ashanti’s legacy and save lives.”
The Ashanti Alert Law, championed by Sen. Warner in 2018, was named after Ashanti Billie – a 19-year-old whose body was discovered in North Carolina, 11 days after she was first reported missing in Norfolk, Va. At the time of Ashanti’s abduction, she was too old for an AMBER Alert and too young for a Silver Alert.
In 2023, the FBI’s National Crime Information Center (NCIC) reported 546,097 entries for missing individuals – 34 percent of whom were over 18 when reported missing. This data underscores the urgency of addressing missing adult cases, given that missing person reports for adults do not always receive the same mandatory attention as those involving juveniles.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Brown Announces That East Palestine Selected to Receive Nearly $16 Million To Build a New Public Safety Complex

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Ohio Sherrod Brown

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown (D-OH) announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture has selected East Palestine to receive a major investment of nearly $16 million to build a new public safety complex that will host the city’s fire, emergency services, and police departments, along with its 911 call center.

“East Palestine knows all too well how important well-equipped first responders are to protecting Ohioans. We’re continuing to work to make this community whole by securing a new facility for East Palestine police officers, firefighters, and emergency personnel. I’m proud to have worked with the East Palestine community to deliver this essential facility for them,” said Brown.

Brown secured a provision in the government funding package that made USDA Rural Development Community Facilities Disaster Assistance available to the Village for building this new public safety complex. Brown aggressively advocated to ensure that the Village was selected for this investment.

Last year’s train derailment brought to light East Palestine’s serious need for updated public safety infrastructure. The Village’s firehouse is located just 40 feet from the railroad tracks. Had the derailment occurred half a mile sooner, the fire station would have been inaccessible and unable to respond to the disaster. Making matters worse, every public safety building in the Village is within the 1-mile evacuation zone for railroad incidents. When the derailment happened, the Village’s dispatch center was forced to relocate, and the fire and police personnel ended up operating out of a city garage.

A fully functional dispatch center is essential for effective emergency responses. The establishment of a well-located public safety building is critical to public safety. This new complex would not only serve the Village but also assist the county as a back-up 911 call center.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: PHOTO RELEASE: Tuberville Leads Forestry Tour Across South Alabama

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Alabama Tommy Tuberville
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) led a forestry tour across Alabama this week in partnership with the Alabama Forestry Association and the Alabama Forestry Commission. Along the way, Sen. Tuberville saw many aspects of the forestry industry and forest products supply chain. He heard about how rising inflation is hurting businesses.
“This week, we’ve been traveling the state where we have over 23 million acres of forestland,” said Senator Tuberville. “Along the way, we heard about sky-high costs of energy and gas, crippling EPA regulations, and unfair trade deals that are hurting Alabama businesses. Our foresters and Ag producers are some of the best conservationists we have, yet Joe Biden and Kamala Harris are trying to regulate them out of business. Under the Biden-Harris administration, it is more difficult for some of our foresters to thrive and contribute to Alabama’s economy. We need to lower inflation, get red tape out of the way, and enter trade deals that put American and Alabama businesses first.”
The Senator visited a logging site in Monroe County, forest land in Fulton County, Harrigan Lumber Company in Monroeville, Westervelt Lumber in Thomasville, SmartLam North America in Dothan, and Peak Renewables Bioenergy in Dothan. He discussed various forest land management practices, such as prescribed burning and thinning, soil types, proper harvesting practices, and various pests and diseases, which impact timber and the forestry sector. Overall themes of the trip included overregulation by the federal government, the need for land stewardship and voluntary conservation practices, and how various rising input costs are hurting foresters’ and producers’ bottom lines.

BACKGROUND:
As a member of the Senate Agriculture committee, Sen. Tuberville is committed to cutting red tape to enable the forest products industry to continue to prosper and boost Alabama’s rural communities.
Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, and HELP Committees.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Klobuchar, Smith Working to Secure Funding for Projects for Duluth and Floodwood in Year End Budget
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn)

The Senate and House Appropriations Committees Advanced Funding Bills with Resources for Minnesota Projects Backed by Klobuchar, Smith

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Tina Smith (D-MN) announced that Fiscal Year 2025 federal budget bills that passed the Senate and House Appropriations Committees include projects to benefit Duluth and Floodwood. These projects would invest in public infrastructure and child care. On September 26, the Senate and House agreed to avoid a shutdown and continue to negotiate on a final budget proposal. Klobuchar and Smith will fight to ensure these projects are included in that final year-end bill.

“From upgrading critical infrastructure to investing in expanding child care options for families, we worked with local leaders to secure resources important to Duluth and Floodwood,” said Klobuchar. “Once completed, these projects will improve quality of life for Minnesotans.”

“Those closest to an issue have the best solutions, and these projects were developed and designed to fit the specific needs of the Duluth area,” said Smith. “From streamlining law enforcement and emergency data or fixing the Duluth Aerial Lift Bridge, to updating our water infrastructure or investing in affordable childcare, these projects will help strengthen our communities and I look forward to working with Senator Klobuchar to get them passed and signed into law.”

Klobuchar and Smith have successfully secured the following projects in the Appropriations Committee-approved bill:
- $2,000,000 for the Northern Minnesota Counties Records System Collaborative. This project between nine Minnesota counties will allow for seamless data sharing of 9-1-1 communications records, jail records, and law enforcement data.
- $500,000 for repairs on the Duluth Aerial Lift Bridge.
- $1,000,000 for the City of Duluth to make improvements at the Lakewood Water Treatment Plant. Klobuchar and Smith requested the funding along with U.S. Representative Pete Stauber (R-MN).
- $1,500,000 for the City of Floodwood’s Infrastructure & Accessibility Improvements Project. The project consists of upgrading infrastructure including water, sewer, storm water and ancillary street reconstruction/curb/sidewalks.
- $674,000 for the Duluth Lincoln Park Restoration Project.
- $136,000 for supporting Divine Konnections’ child abuse prevention, recovery, and healing services for young moms.
- $50,000 to operate the Polar Cubs Child Care Center in Floodwood.
Klobuchar and Smith have been actively involved in securing this federal funding for projects benefiting communities across the state through a process called “Congressionally Directed Spending” (CDS). During the CDS process, Klobuchar and Smith have considered project proposals and advocated for funding in close coordination with leaders from across the state.

The projects are expected to pass the Senate over the next several months.
MIL OSI USA News –
January 24, 2025

Category: AM-NC

ENDS

Notes to editors

Share this page

Updates to this page

Other Actions to Help Policyholders

Notes to editors  