NewzIntel.com

Category: AM-NC

  • MIL-OSI USA: Representative Omar and Senator Smith Reintroduce No Shame at School Act

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Ilhan Omar (DFL-MN)

    WASHINGTON– Today, U.S. Senator Tina Smith (D-MN) and U.S. Representative Ilhan Omar (D-MN) announced the reintroduction of the No Shame at School Act, a bill aimed at ending lunch shaming practices in schools nationwide.

    The No Shame at School Act would prohibit school districts from publicly identifying or shaming students who are unable to pay for school meals. It also bans schools from hiring debt collectors to recover unpaid school meal debt.The legislation requires schools to attempt to directly certify children with unpaid meal debt for free or reduced-price meals and allows schools to be retroactively reimbursed for meals served to these children.

    “No child should have to go through the experience of being shamed at school for an unpaid lunch bill,” said Senator Smith. “I’m so proud of the work Minnesota has done to address this issue through universal school lunches, but there are too many places around the country where we still see this happening. We need to set our children up for success in school, and making sure kids get the school lunches they need without being made to feel ashamed or embarrassed is an important part of that success.”

    “In Minnesota, we have already implemented universal school meals and are leading the charge to remove school lunch shaming,” said Rep. Omar, a member of the Committee on Education and Workforce. “It’s time for the rest of the nation to follow suit. Every child deserves to learn and grow without the pangs of hunger or the fear of being singled out for their family’s financial circumstances.”

    “I’m proud to support Congresswoman Omar’s and Senator Smith’s No Shame at School Act,” said Valerie Castile. “My son Philando was a school supervisor at Robbinsdale Cooper High School in New Hope. He knew all of the children he served by name and routinely paid for students’ lunches from his own pocket if they did not have enough money. No child should be deprived of a healthy meal because their family can’t afford it. Congresswoman Omar’s leadership in the fight against child hunger, including her work on the Education and Labor Committee, ensures our community has a voice on these critical issues.”

    The bill comes at a time when many families are already struggling with rising costs of living expenses and many schools across the country have singled out students for not being able to pay for their school lunch. By addressing the issue of school meal debt, the No Shame at School Act aims to alleviate financial pressure on families while ensuring that all students have equal access to nutritious meals during the school day.

    Current co-sponsors in the House include Nanette Barragan, Sanford Bishop, Jamaal Bowman, Julia Brownley, Andre Carson, Troy Carter, Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick, Yvette D. Clarke, Lou Correa, Danny K. Davis, Adriano Espaillat, Jahana Hayes, Jonathan Jackson, Sara Jacobs, Pramila Jayapal, Henry C. “Hank” Johnson, Robin Kelly, Ro Khanna, Barbara Lee, Jenn McClellan, James McGovern, Gwen Moore, Grace Napolitano, Eleanor Holmes Norton, Scott Peters, Chellie Pingree, Mark Pocan, Ayanna Pressley, Linda Sanchez, Jan Schakowsky, Melanie Stansbury, Mark Takano, Rashida Tlaib, Nydia Velazquez, Susan Wild, and Nikema Williams.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: House Passes Pappas’s Bipartisan Bill to Increase Opportunities for Veterans, Address Trucking Shortage

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Chris Pappas (D-NH)

    Yesterday the House passed Congressman Chris Pappas’s (NH-01)Veteran Improvement Commercial Driver License Act of 2023 with bipartisan, unanimous support. This bipartisan legislation will eliminate red tape that excludes veterans from accessing commercial driver-education programs using their GI Bill benefits. It has passed the Senate and is headed to the President’s desk for his signature.

    The legislation would exempt new branches of established commercial driver-training facilities from the statutory two-year waiting period to accept GI Bill benefits if the primary training facility has already been approved by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and state approving agencies to receive those benefits.

    “Removing an arbitrary two year wait for veterans to use their GI benefits to obtain a commercial driving license is common sense and will help address the current truck driver shortage,” said Congressman Pappas, member of House Veterans’ Affairs Committee. “This bipartisan legislation will cut red tape for veterans to acquire a commercial driving license, increasing opportunities for veterans and supporting our supply chains and economy. I urge the President to sign it into law quickly.”

    Background:

    • The statutory “two-year rule” requires new branches of an already-approved training facility to wait two years before accepting GI Bill benefits.
    • Veterans who want to obtain their commercial driver licenses (CDLs) can face barriers to attending a commercial driver-education program, particularly if they live in a rural area, as they may have to travel long distances or wait two years to attend the closest training facility so that they are able to use their GI Bill benefits.
    • The Veteran Improvement Commercial Driver License Act of 2023 requires the new branch of a training facility to teach the same curriculum as the already-approved facility and to meet annual reporting requirements during the two-year exemption period. The VA secretary is also authorized to revoke the exemption from the facility at any time.

    This bipartisan legislation is endorsed by the following Veteran Service Organizations (VSO): the American Legion, Moving Veterans Forward, Student Veterans of America, the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Great Plains Chapter of Paralyzed Veterans of America, and Nebraska Military Officers Association of America. It is also endorsed by the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, Werner Trucking, the American Trucking Association, the Commercial Vehicle Training Association, the Nebraska Trucking Association, and the Truckload Carriers Association.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: CONGRESSWOMAN CLARKE ISSUES STATEMENT ON MAYOR ERIC ADAMS

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Yvette D Clarke (9th District of New York)

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

    September 26, 2024

    MEDIA CONTACT: 

    e: jessica.myers@mail.house.gov

    c: 202.913.0126

    Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke (NY-09) issued the following statement:

    “Today marks a solemn chapter in the history of New York City. In time, Mayor Adams will confront a jury of his peers. As we ready for their verdict, we must not fail to remember that every American, from working people to public officials, are entitled to the presumption of their innocence when accused of wrongdoing. And so, I pray the Mayor faces a fair trial, and I pray its judgment is centered in justice.

    “New Yorkers are defined by our resilience and ability to persevere through any obstacle that has come our way. I am certain that, like all the rest, this too shall pass.”

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Latta Joins House Colleagues in Urging Full Reauthorization of the Farm Bill

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Bob Latta (R-Bowling Green Ohio)

    Congressman Bob Latta (R-OH5) today joined his House colleagues in sending a letter to House Leadership urging for full reauthorization of the Farm Bill before the end of the 118th Congress. Latta’s district, Ohio’s Fifth Congressional District, is the largest agriculture income producing district in the state of Ohio. 

    In the letter, the lawmakers write,”Farmers and ranchers do not have the luxury of waiting until next Congress for the enactment of an effective farm bill. Inflation has driven production costs to the highest on record, meanwhile commodity prices across the board have fallen precipitously, creating a severe margin squeeze on farm and ranch families. A $34 billion projected loss in crop cash receipts is expected to result in the sharpest two-year decline in net cash income in our nation’s history: 31% ($69.2 billion). Farm debt, $540 billion, is the highest ever, both nominally and when adjusted for inflation. These factors show no signs of abating for all major commodities. Yet, despite the overwhelming increase in production costs, declining commodity cash receipts, and the record-breaking decline in net cash income, without intervention, federal support provided to agriculture in 2024 is projected to reach its lowest level since 1982, a year that presaged the farm financial crisis of the mid-1980s.” 

    Read the full letter here and below:

    Speaker Johnson, Majority Leader Scalise, Majority Whip Emmer, and Conference Chair Stefanik: 

    As you are all aware, agriculture is among the most vital industries to the United States of America, and the farm bill—omnibus legislation that establishes policies affecting all sectors of the agriculture industry for a five-year period—expires this year. 

    Since the enactment of the 2018 Farm Bill, which was extended last December to cover 2024, the agriculture sector has faced numerous headwinds. A combination of catastrophic factors including illegal retaliatory tariffs on agricultural products, supply chain disruptions from the COVID-19 pandemic, extreme weather events, crippling inflation, and high interest rates continue to fuel an impending financial crisis in farm country. 

    Farmers and ranchers do not have the luxury of waiting until next Congress for the enactment of an effective farm bill. Inflation has driven production costs to the highest on record, meanwhile commodity prices across the board have fallen precipitously, creating a severe margin squeeze on farm and ranch families. A $34 billion projected loss in crop cash receipts is expected to result in the sharpest two-year decline in net cash income in our nation’s history: 31% ($69.2 billion). Farm debt, $540 billion, is the highest ever, both nominally and when adjusted for inflation. These factors show no signs of abating for all major commodities. Yet, despite the overwhelming increase in production costs, declining commodity cash receipts, and the record-breaking decline in net cash income, without intervention, federal support provided to agriculture in 2024 is projected to reach its lowest level since 1982, a year that presaged the farm financial crisis of the mid-1980s. 

    The 118th Congress has an opportunity to do right by producers, other agriculture stakeholders, rural communities, and taxpayers by putting more “farm” back in the farm bill and by making responsible reforms and investments across all 12 titles, and the bipartisan H.R. 8467—The Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2024, which was advanced by the House Committee on Agriculture on May 24th of this year, does just that. This legislation is the product of input received at seven House Committee on Agriculture hosted listening sessions, and numerous round tables and town halls across the country, is reflective of the over 2,600 priorities submitted to the Committee on Agriculture by 172 members of the Republican Conference, is supported by hundreds of stakeholder organizations, and is worthy of our time, attention, and effort as the 118th Congress comes to a close. 

    The negative impacts of failing to act will not just stop at the farm gate, but will also hit Main Street businesses, rural communities, and the national economy. Among some commodities and regions, calamitous impacts in farm country, such as those felt during the crisis of the 1980s, are a genuine possibility. Therefore, we respectfully urge that the enactment of H.R. 8467, or similar legislation that makes meaningful investments in farmers, ranchers, and rural communities, is among the top priorities of the Republican Conference and that this be considered a “must-pass” item in the lame duck session of the 118th Congress. 

    The Biden-Harris Administration and Democratic Congressional Leadership have failed to appreciate the dire situation in farm country and have stood in the way of progress on a highly effective farm bill, however we remain hopeful that after election year politics have run their course, they will join in a bipartisan fashion to do what’s right for the country. All Americans, particularly our rural constituents, deserve nothing less and we stand ready to assist in this endeavor as the end of the year approaches. 

    Thank you for your strong support of agriculture and rural America. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Death of an inmate from the Regional Treatment Centre (Pacific Institution)

    Source: Government of Canada News

    On September 24, 2024, Gerald Leslie Dolman, an inmate from the Regional Treatment Centre (Pacific Institution), died while in our custody.

    September 26, 2024– Abbotsford, British Columbia – Correctional Service Canada

    On September 24, 2024, Gerald Leslie Dolman, an inmate from the Regional Treatment Centre (Pacific Institution), died while in our custody.

    At the time of death, the inmate was 72 years old and had been serving an indeterminate sentence since December 1, 2017.

    As in all cases involving the death of an inmate, the Correctional Service of Canada (CSC) will review the circumstances. CSC policy requires that the coroner be notified.

    -30-

    Heather Kelly
    Assistant Warden, Management Services
    Pacific Institution and Regional Treatment Centre
    604-870-7703

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Smith Announces Upcoming Staff Outreach Events

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE)

    Washington, D.C.– Constituents of Third District Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) are invited to meet with a member of his staff during the month of October in the communities of Osceola, Fairbury, and Central City.

    A staff outreach event is an opportunity for constituents to meet directly with a member of Smith’s staff about federal issues, receive assistance with a federal agency, or take advantage of the services available through his office.

    Smith, who has offices in Grand Island, Scottsbluff, and Nebraska City, will provide a staff member at the following times and locations:

    Tuesday, October 1st

    Polk County Courthouse
    400 Hawkeye Street, Osceola
    10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. CT

    Tuesday, October 15th

    Jefferson County Courthouse
    411 4th Street, Fairbury
    10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. CT

    Tuesday, October 22nd

    Merrick County Courthouse
    1518 18th Street, Central City
    10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. CT

    For additional information, please contact Smith’s Grand Island office at (308) 384-3900, his Scottsbluff office at (308) 633-6333, or his Nebraska City office at (402) 874-6050.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: Fact sheet: Fourth Ministerial Meeting on the Los Angeles Declaration on Migration and  Protection

    Source: The White House

    On June 10, 2022, President Biden launched the Los Angeles Declaration on Migration and Protection with leaders from across the Western Hemisphere to tackle together the challenge of migration and forced displacement. Under this framework, the United States has worked with partner countries to collaboratively reduce irregular migration and advance a safe, humane, and orderly approach to migration across the hemisphere. Over the last two years, the 22 endorsing countries have achieved substantial progress across the Los Angeles Declaration’s three core pillars:

    1. addressing root causes and supporting the integration of migrants to foster long-term stabilization;
    2. expanding lawful pathways for migration and protection; and
    3. strengthening humane enforcement.

    On September 25, 2024, Secretary of State Antony Blinken hosted the fourth Los Angeles Declaration Ministerial with White House Homeland Security Advisor Dr. Liz Sherwood-Randall, White House Coordinator for the Los Angeles Declaration Marcela Escobari, and foreign ministers and senior representatives from the other 21 endorsing countries.

    On behalf of the United States, Secretary Blinken announced more than $686 million in new humanitarian, development, economic, and security assistance to support partner countries to respond to urgent humanitarian needs, strengthen humane enforcement efforts, expand lawful pathways, and facilitate the regularization and integration of migrants within the region. With this announcement, the United States has now committed over $1.2 billion under the Los Angeles Declaration framework in 2024 alone, reflecting the Biden-Harris Administration’s unwavering commitment to collaboratively addressing this hemispheric challenge.

    The United States also announced expanded enforcement partnerships to deter irregular migration, including a removal pilot program with the Government of Panama and new visa restrictions against travel agencies and tour operators that prey on vulnerable migrants. These actions aim to hold accountable those who exploit migrants for profit and to dissuade migrants from attempting dangerous irregular journeys.

    Endorsing countries agreed to further institutionalize the Los Angeles Declaration through the establishment of a Secretariat, which will be managed by the Pan American Development Foundation and the Organization of American States and will ensure that coordinated progress on migration management is sustained into the future under this framework. The Government of Colombia formally announced that it will assume the role of rotating Country Chair over the next year and will host the fifth Los Angeles Declaration Ministerial in 2025.

    The endorsing countries presented progress toward their commitments under the Los Angeles Declaration and announced the following new initiatives:

    Strengthening Humane Enforcement

    • On June 4, 2024, President Biden announced executive actions to bar migrants who cross the U.S. Southern border unlawfully from receiving asylum during times when high levels of encounters exceed our ability to deliver timely consequences.  Since June 4, encounters between ports of entry have dropped by more than 50% and remain at their lowest level in years. Encounters in July and August 2024 dropped to the lowest levels since September 2020.
    • Panama is implementing a U.S.-funded removal program that has resulted in the removal of hundreds of foreign nationals who did not have a lawful basis to remain in Panama, after they were screened for protection needs.
    • The United States continues to take steps to impose visa restrictions on executives of travel agencies and charter air and maritime transportation companies around the globe that are facilitating irregular migration to the United States. On September 24, 2024, the State Department imposed additional visa restrictions against multiple executives of travel agencies operating in Europe, Africa, and the Middle East that are knowingly facilitating illegal migration.
    • Partner countries reaffirmed their commitment to stem extracontinental irregular migration through the strategic use of entry and transit visas and passenger vetting. In total, Los Angeles Declaration endorsing countries have taken over 300 new visa policy actions to restrict travel intended solely for irregular migration.
    • The United States has mobilized resources to increase investigations, arrests, and prosecutions of human smuggling and trafficking networks, including in partnerships with other Los Angeles Declaration countries.  In August, for example, Guatemalan law enforcement—in an investigation supported by the Departments of Justice and Homeland Security— dismantled a human smuggling network based in Guatemala that was responsible for the deaths of 53 migrants in a tractor-trailer in San Antonio, Texas in June 2022.
    • Under the Biden-Harris Administration, the United States has sanctioned eight human smuggling networks, including over 30 individuals and entities, to hold accountable those responsible for the exploitation of migrants.  On September 24, 2024, for example, the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) sanctioned five Colombian nationals and two Mexican-based businesses, including two individuals affiliated with the Clan del Golfo transnational criminal organization, who are responsible for the control of migrant flows through the Darien Gap. Colombian authorities are offering a reward of 50 million Colombian pesos for the capture of both wanted criminals.
    • The United States has enhanced biometric sharing capabilities throughout the region, enabling law enforcement actions against criminal actors before they enter any of our countries. Guatemala, with support from the United States, announced a new biometric program at La Aurora International Airport to cross-reference travelers with U.S. security databases in near-real time in order to identify high-risk arriving passengers.

    Expanding Lawful Pathways for Migration and Protection

    • The Biden-Harris Administration has rebuilt the United States’ refugee resettlement program and led a historic expansion of lawful pathways to the United States and partner countries. The United States is now on track to welcome 100,000 refugees from around the world this fiscal year, the largest number in three decades.
    • Under the U.S. Government’s Safe Mobility Initiative, over 23,000 refugees from within the Western Hemisphere have been resettled safely and legally in the United States in Fiscal Year 2024, a four-fold increase over FY 2023.
    • The United States is incorporating Labor Neighbors as part of the Safe Mobility Initiative to refer migrants to more lawful pathways and help match labor demand to labor supply across the hemisphere.
    • Belize announced it is establishing a seasonal migrant worker program focused on agriculture and construction.
    • Canada seeks to support labor mobility through its Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot.
    • Ecuador is launching a new labor mobility unit with U.S. support.
    • As part of the Safe Mobility Initiative, the United States continues to provide migrants and displaced persons with information and resources though the Safe Mobility Offices in Guatemala, Costa Rica, Colombia, and Ecuador.
    • Costa Rica and the United States announced that the Safe Mobility Offices in Costa Rica will be extended until December 2025. Costa Rica will also expand eligibility criteria to include nationals from eligible countries who were present in Costa Rica on or before September 15, 2024.
    • Canada began receiving referrals from the Safe Mobility Offices in the hemisphere and expects arrivals to Canada starting in 2025.
    • The Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela (CHNV) parole processes have helped reduce irregular flows from these four countries, enabling migrants to apply from where they are for lawful entry to the United States.

    Addressing Root Causes and Supporting the Integration of Migrants to Foster Long-term Stabilization

    • A significant portion of the United States’ $686 million in new funding announced on September 25, 2024 will support regional efforts to respond to urgent humanitarian needs, like basic food, shelter, and health care for migrants and displaced persons, including nearly 8 million Venezuelans. U.S. funding also supports regional partners’ efforts to absorb and integrate migrants, promoting migrants’ financial inclusion and labor market insertion, and supporting host communities. 
    • More than half of Los Angeles Declaration endorsing countries have implemented policies that provide regular status and help migrants integrate and rebuild their lives in Latin America and the Caribbean, stemming further displacement and reducing migrant vulnerability. Their combined efforts have enabled 4.4 million Venezuelans to attain legal status to date. The following countries took new actions since May to provide regular status and help integrate more migrants:
    • Argentina announced a special admission and regularization program that allows Venezuelans with expired identity documents (within the last 10 years) to seek residency in Argentina, and to verify identity or criminal record through a sworn statement in the absence of documents.
    • Canada announced a new Francophone minority community student program that will give program participants access to settlement services while they are studying to help them integrate successfully into their communities.
    • Colombia announced the signing of a regularization plan that could benefit an estimated 600,000 undocumented parents and legal guardians of children with valid Colombian Temporary Protective Status.
    • Ecuador extended its regularization process until April 2025, allowing approximately 100,000 Venezuelan migrants to gain legal status. Separately, Ecuador committed to renew nearly 95,000 two-year visas previously issued to regularized Venezuelans. As part of the U.S. funding announcement, the U.S. is helping Ecuador unlock additional World Bank lending to support Ecuador’s Social Safety Net project that contributes to stabilizing and integrating the 450,000 Venezuelan migrants currently in the country.
    • Mexico committed to opening a Multi-Purpose Processing Center in Chiapas to streamline the processing of migrants seeking refuge and to provide them integration support through access to financial, health, and education services. 
    • Panama announced the intent to begin a process that would allow migrants currently living in Panama irregularly to apply for legal status and obtain work authorizations.
    • Peru, working closely with United Nations implementing agencies, announced plans to prioritize documenting migrant children and adolescents in the public education system. Through these efforts, Peru will provide protection and basic services to minors and their families.
    • Uruguay approved two decrees to grant legal status to approximately 25,500 non-citizens living in Uruguay with pending asylum claims who likely would not qualify for asylum. 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Readout of the Secretary-General’s meeting with H.E. Mr. Faustin Archange Touadera, President of the Central African Republic [scroll down for French version]

    Source: United Nations secretary general

    The Secretary-General met with H.E. Mr. Faustin Archange Touadera, President of the Central African Republic. The Secretary-General and the President discussed efforts to advance the peace process, including through strengthening the cooperation on disarmament, demobilization and reintegration. The Secretary-General reaffirmed the solidarity and continued support of the United Nations to the Central African Republic.

    ***

    Le Secrétaire général a rencontré S.E. M. Faustin Archange Touadera, Président de la République centrafricaine. Le Secrétaire général et le Président ont échangé sur les efforts visant à faire avancer le processus de paix, notamment en renforçant la coopération en matière de désarmement, de démobilisation et de réintégration. Le Secrétaire général a réaffirmé la solidarité et le soutien continu des Nations Unies à la République centrafricaine.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Chairman Rosendale Fights for More Efficient Veteran Care Appointment Scheduling

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Matt Rosendale (Montana)

    Chairman Rosendale Fights for More Efficient Veteran Care Appointment Scheduling

    Washington, September 26, 2024

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Chairman Matt Rosendale (MT-02) of the House Veterans Affairs Committee, Subcommittee on Technology Modernization led a hearing titled: “Ensuring Timely Access: Challenges in VA Scheduling.”

    Chairman Rosendale focused on how the current leaders of the Department of Veterans Affairs are seemingly intentionally hindering the implementation of scheduling software that makes it easier for veterans to get timely appointments with community care providers.


    “I have serious concerns that the current leaders of the Department of Veterans Affairs might be intentionally undermining WellHive—and making veterans’ health care slower and more difficult—out of a political hostility to community care,”     said Rep. Rosendale. “Today we are going to dig into these decisions and the thought process behind them. Because veterans’ appointment scheduling is too important, and the status quo is too broken, to let any of the projects we are discussing today slip into failure or neglect.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Soldiers at Shariki bond with Japanese neighbors at traditional festival

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    TSUGARU, Japan  –  

    An annual festival held here that marks the end of the summer season in Japan included participation from U.S. Soldiers stationed at a nearby installation who took part in the festivities.

    Soldiers assigned to the 10th Missile Defense Battery at the Shariki Communications Site in Aomori participated in Tsugaru’s Umaichi Matsuri, or Horse Market Festival, held there in late August. As part of the celebration, they marched in a parade alongside a horse-shaped float, sharing in the tradition and community spirit with their Japanese neighbors.

    The festival originated in the early 1900s, when the area was crowded with farm horse auctions. As agriculture became more mechanized, the necessity for the auctions declined over time. Around the mid-1970s, the festival evolved into a celebration of the city’s traditions and gratitude toward the horses that were vital to the early days of farming.

    Approximately 1,800 participants, including the 10th MDB Soldiers, Japan Air Self-Defense Force members and Tsugaru residents participated in the festival. Some dressed in costumes as they pulled the ornate horse floats through the city streets. Many in the crowd gave enthusiastic cheers as the vibrant and celebratory parade passed by.

    Sgt. 1st Class Randy Bergman, assigned to the 10th MDB, was one of about a dozen Soldiers from his unit who participated in the festival and pushed their float along the parade with help from their JASDF partners.

    Bergman said he and the Soldiers enjoyed seeing the crowd waving and smiling at them, taking it as a sign that people were enjoying themselves.

    “I think it’s going really well,” Berkman said during the parade. “We love experiencing the culture [of Japan, and seeing] the differences between our two cultures. It’s just great fun and a great experience for everybody.”

    Bergman said he and the 10th MDB Soldiers try to participate in and support local events as often as they can. It is important not only to their mission to be good stewards of the U.S. military in Japan, he said, but also to enhance their partnership with the JASDF as well as their relationship with their local community.

    Tsugaru Mayor Hiroaki Kuramitsu said he welcomes the U.S. military’s participation in the city’s festivities throughout the year and that it is a great joy to be able to celebrate together.

    While Tsugaru citizens are aware of the U.S. military base in their community, Kuramitsu said, the Umaichi Festival provides a unique opportunity to interact directly with the Soldiers, which in turn promotes an understanding of each other’s cultures and helps everyone bond as a community.

    “It is important to remember that the Soldiers stationed here are human beings, just like us,” Kuramitsu said. “We all share this planet, and I believe that [through events like this], we can overcome any differences we may perceive and view the U.S. military as being part of the Tsugaru community.”

    Capt. Henry Etchberger, commander of the 10th MDB, said he and his Soldiers had a great time at the festival, and likewise said the Tsugaru residents seemed to be enjoying themselves.

    “We’re very lucky and very privileged to be here,” Etchberger said. “I want [the Soldiers] to be enthusiastic about embracing Japanese culture. We need to demonstrate that we have a very strong relationship with both our community and our bilateral counterparts.”

    As the sun set, the festival culminated with the Shinden Fire Festival, in which the horse floats were set ablaze as a symbolic ritual to send the horses’ spirits to heaven.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Lankford’s Effort to Prevent Fraud Advances in Senate

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Oklahoma James Lankford
    WASHINGTON, DC — Senator James Lankford’s (R-OK) Taxpayer Resources Used in Emergencies (TRUE) Accountability Act, which would require agencies to develop plans to prevent fraud in the event of an emergency or crisis, passed out of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee. Lankford is joined on the bill by Senator Gary Peters (D-MI), Chairman of the Committee.
    “Federal agencies’ unpreparedness resulted in billions of dollars in fraud during the COVID pandemic. Rather than waiting on Congress to write safeguards into specific emergency funding bills in the future, this legislation requires agencies to be ready to proactively to put controls in place. Fraud within federal programs is theft from American taxpayers, and these safeguards are essential to better stewarding their hard-earned dollars,” said Lankford.
    The Government Accountability Office (GAO) reported earlier this year that between 2018 and 2022, the federal government lost between $233-521 billion annually to fraud. This legislation would require safeguards to prevent against fraud in case of national crises.
    Lankford has long been an advocate of spending oversight and fraud prevention. He joined the Stop Secret Spending Act and Safeguarding the Transparency and Efficiency of Payments (STEP) Act which also passed out of committee this week. His Taxpayers Right-to-Know Act became law in 2021, and he has continued to follow up on inadequacies in the way agencies track, manage, and report spending programs.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: FBI Houston Seeks Persistent “Plaid Pillager” for Fifth Bank Robbery

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (c)

    HOUSTON, TX—FBI Houston’s Violent Crime Task Force is asking for the public’s help in identifying and locating a man dubbed the “Plaid Pillager” who committed his fifth bank robbery in Houston last week. Crime Stoppers of Houston is offering a reward of up to $5,000 for information leading to the identification and arrest of the robber.

    The most recent robbery occurred at approximately 2:10 p.m. on Friday, September 20, 2024, at the Bank of America located at 5348 Westheimer Road in west Houston. During the robbery, the suspect entered the bank, approached the counter, and handed the teller a threatening note demanding money. He fled the bank with an undisclosed amount of money southbound on foot across Westheimer Road. No one was physically hurt during the robbery.

    Previously, the “Plaid Pillager” robbed the following banks:

    • Wells Fargo Bank located at 11152 South Gessner in southwest Houston on Friday, July 22, 2022
    • Chase Bank located at 10411 Westheimer in west Houston on Friday, February 3, 2023
    • Bank of America located at 5348 Westheimer in west Houston on Friday, February 10, 2023
    • Cadence Bank located at 3754 Westheimer in west Houston on Monday March 6, 2023

    The robber is described as a balding white male in his late 50s, approximately 6’0” tall, with a heavy build and a white stubble beard. During the robbery he wore a blue fishing shirt, blue jeans, sneakers, a medical mask, and a ballcap with the Texans logo. He carried a camo-colored backpack, and upon fleeing the bank he took off his ballcap and mask before putting on sunglasses. A witness stated the suspect had an older black or green tattoo on the left side of his head.

    Photographs of the suspect from the most recent robbery can be found on FBI Houston’s Twitter account.

    Crime Stoppers of Houston, a non-governmental organization, is offering up to $5,000 for information leading to the identification and arrest of this robber. If you have any information, please call the Crime Stoppers tip line at 713-222-TIPS (8477) or the FBI Houston Field Office at (713) 693-5000. Tips may also be submitted to Crime Stoppers through their website, http://www.crime-stoppers.org, or the Houston Crime Stoppers mobile phone app which can be downloaded for both iPhone and Android devices. All tipsters remain anonymous.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Nashville Man Sentenced to 16 Years in Federal Prison for Multiple Armed Robbery and Firearms Convictions

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (c)

    NASHVILLE – Terrell Stevenson, 35, of Nashville was sentenced to 16 years in federal prison today, announced United States Attorney for the Middle District of Tennessee Henry C. Leventis.

    Within 40 minutes on Halloween night 2018, Stevenson robbed a Dollar General Store and a Mapco gas station in Nashville, brandishing a semi-automatic pistol and pointing it at the head of the clerk working at the Dollar General Store. Stevenson and his accomplice were arrested by police officers after fleeing from a traffic stop. Stevenson was charged by a federal grand jury in January of 2020 with two counts of Hobbs Act Robbery, two counts of brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, and one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. He was convicted on all charges following a jury trial in September 2023.

    This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Rachel Stephens and Kathryn Risinger 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.

    # # # # #

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Air National Guardsman Pleads Guilty in Murder-for-Hire Scheme

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (c)

    NASHVILLE – Josiah Ernesto Garcia, 23, of Toledo, Ohio, formerly of Hermitage, Tennessee, has pleaded guilty to federal charges after meeting with an undercover FBI agent to finalize a deal to murder an individual for payment, announced United States Attorney Henry C. Leventis for the Middle District of Tennessee.

    Garcia pleaded guilty to using interstate commerce facilities in the commission of murder-for-hire.

    According to court records, Garcia needed money to support his family and in mid-February 2023 began searching online for contract mercenary jobs and found the website http://www.rentahitman.com. Originally created in 2005 to advertise a cyber security startup company, the company failed and over the next decade it received many inquiries about murder-for-hire services. The website’s administrator then converted the website to a parody site that contains false testimonials from those who have purported to use hit man services, and an intake form where people can request services. The website also has an option for someone to apply to work as a hired killer.

    Garcia submitted an employment inquiry indicating that he was interested in obtaining employment as a hit man and that he had “military experience, and rifle expertise.” Garcia followed up on this initial request and submitted other identification documents and a resume indicating he was an expert marksman and had been employed in the Air National Guard since July 2021. The resume also provided that Garcia was nicknamed “Reaper” which was earned from military experience and marksmanship. Garcia continued to follow up with the website administrator indicating that he wanted to go to work as soon as possible. 

    An FBI undercover agent spoke with Garcia by phone then met him in person to discuss his application. Both conversations were recorded. The agent then met with Garcia at a park in Hendersonville, Tennessee, and provided him with a target packet of a fictional individual, which included photographs and other information about the individual to be killed, and a down payment of $2,500. After agreeing to the terms of the murder arrangement, Garcia asked the agent if he needed to provide a photograph of the dead body. Garcia was then arrested by FBI agents, who in a subsequent search of his home, recovered an AR style rifle.

    Garcia is scheduled to be sentenced on February 7, 2025. He faces up to 10 years in federal prison.

    This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Nashville Resident Agency, Memphis Field Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brooke K. Schiferle prosecuted the case.

    # # # # #

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Chamcook — RCMP seeking public’s assistance following two break, enter and thefts

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    The St. Stephen RCMP detachment is seeking the public’s assistance following two break, enter and thefts in Chamcook, N.B.

    The first break, enter and theft occurred during the early morning hours of September 19, 2024, at a camp on Access Road 2B, near Frye Road in Chamcook. An individual or individuals forcibly gained entry to the camp and an outbuilding, and stole a number of items including electronics. The interior of the camp was also vandalized.

    The second break, enter and theft is believed to have occurred between September 16 and September 19, 2024, near the 500 block of Frye Road, also in Chamcook. Police believe the same individual or individuals forcibly gained entry to two trailers and stole a kayak, a leaf blower and a chainsaw.

    Both residences were unoccupied at the time of the incidents.

    If you were in the area at the time and witnessed the incident, or if you have information that could help further the investigation, please contact the St. Stephen RCMP at 506-466-7030. Information can also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers by calling 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), by downloading the secure P3 Mobile App, or by Secure Web Tips at http://www.crimenb.ca.

    The investigation is ongoing.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Iqaluit — Nunavut man charged in 1986 Iqaluit cold case

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Iqaluit, Nunavut
    File: 2006-84716
    Date: 2024-09-26

    The Nunavut RCMP Major Crimes Unit arrested Jopey Atsiqtaq in the murder of 15-year-old Mary Ann Birmingham, who was found deceased in Frobisher Bay, Northwest Territories (Iqaluit, Nunavut), on May 28, 1986.

    The Nunavut RCMP Major Crimes Unit worked alongside the Public Prosecutions Services Canada’s, Nunavut Regional Office to secure a Second-Degree Murder Indictment. The Indictment was signed by the Director of Public Prosecutions and Deputy Attorney General of Canada on September 19, 2024.

    On September 24, 2024, RCMP members from Nunavut RCMP Major Crimes Unit arrested Mr. Atsiqtaq in Ottawa, Ontario on a Canada Wide Warrant, with the assistance of the Ottawa Police Service.

    On September 25, 2024, Mr. Atsiqtaq was transported to Iqaluit, Nunavut, and appeared before the Nunavut Court of Justice. He was remanded into custody and his next court appearance is scheduled for October 29, 2024.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: St. Croix Man Indicted After Threatening to Murder Federal Agents

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (c)

    St. Croix, VI – United States Attorney Delia L. Smith announced today that a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Jamoi Weekes, 30, of St. Croix, with making threats to assault and murder federal and local law enforcement officers.

    “Heinous threats of violence that target our partners in law enforcement will not be tolerated,” said U.S. Attorney Smith. “Law enforcement officials must be free to perform their duties without fear or intimidation, and as evidenced in the case against Weekes, we will steadfastly prosecute threats against public servants and aggressively seek penalties against those who engage in such abhorrent crimes.”

    According to court documents, on August 31, 2024, Weekes attempted to board a flight at the Henry E. Rohlsen Airport in St. Croix. Weekes was referred to Customs and Border Protection for a secondary inspection before boarding his flight. Weekes then became extremely irate and combative and began threatening to murder and retaliate against the officers if he ever saw them again. Weekes was then determined to be unsuitable to board his flight and was ordered to leave the airport. While exiting the airport, Weekes encountered two Virgin Islands Port Authority officers who he also threatened to murder. Rather than leave the airport, Weekes then followed two Customs and Border Protection officers from the airport terminal to the parking lot and again threatened to murder the officers.

    The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Evan Rikhye.

    United States Attorney Smith reminds the public that an indictment is merely a formal charging document, and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Readout of Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III’s Meeting With United Kingdom Secretary of State for Defence, John Healey

    Source: United States Department of Defense

    Pentagon Press Secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder provided the following readout:

    Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III met today with his UK counterpart, Secretary of State for Defence, John Healey, on the margins of the AUKUS Defense Ministers Meeting in London. The discussion included the situation in Middle East, support to Ukraine, and continued defense cooperation.

    The two leaders reaffirmed their unwavering commitment to continue supporting Ukraine’s efforts to defend itself against Russian aggression and reiterated the importance of stopping the escalation of violence in the Middle East. Secretary Austin reiterated his thanks for continued defense cooperation with the UK on a wide range of operational and capability development efforts.

    Both leaders look forward to continued coordination and cooperation between our two militaries.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Attorney and FBI Charge Man for Drive-By Shooting in Zuni

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (c)

    ALBUQUERQUE – A Zuni Pueblo man was charged by criminal complaint with federal firearms violations following a drive-by shooting that occurred on the Pueblo of Zuni Indian Reservation.

    Devin Wyaco, 33, an enrolled member of the Pueblo of Zuni, appeared before a federal judge today and will remain in custody pending trial, which has not been scheduled.

    According to the criminal complaint, on September 19, 2024, John Doe and his girlfriend were riding their bikes in Zuni, New Mexico when they noticed a white sedan with tinted windows drive past them, going in the same direction as them. The sedan then did a U-turn and stopped before driving back towards them. As the vehicle passed them, one shot was fired from the passenger side, striking John Doe in his abdomen.

    John Doe was transported via ambulance first to Zuni Hospital, then to University of New Mexico Hospital. When he was later interviewed by investigators, John Doe identified the vehicle as belonging to Wyaco’s girlfriend.

    Investigators executed a federal search warrant on Wyaco’s girlfriend’s residence. There, they spoke to Wyaco’s girlfriend, who stated she had been in the vehicle with Wyaco at the time of the shooting. Wyaco’s girlfriend told investigators that he had fled and was still in possession of the firearm.

    If convicted, Wyaco faces a minimum of 10 years in prison.

    U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez and Raul Bujanda, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.

    The Gallup Resident Agency of the FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Zuni Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Zachary C. Jones is prosecuting the case.

    A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    # # #

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: About 140,000 children displaced by Israeli airstrikes in Lebanon, many arriving in shelters severely distressed

    Source: Save The Children

    Save the Children staff walking with a girl in a school used as a shelther, South Lebanon [Imad Achkar / Save the Children]

    BEIRUT, 26 September 2024 – About 140,000 children have been forced from their homes in southern Lebanon in the past four days, with many arriving at shelters showing signs of severe distress, according to Save the Children staff. 

    Over 400,000 people have been displaced since the start of Israeli airstrikes on Sunday in the latest escalation in cross-border violence, with numbers expected to increase in the coming days. 

    This brings the total number forced from their homes in Lebanon in nearly a year of cross-border violence to 500,000, or nearly 10% of the population, including 175,000 children. According to media reports, about 60,000 Israelis have been displaced from their homes in northern Israel. 

    Latest figures from Lebanon’s Ministry of Health report nearly 600 people have been killed in Lebanon this week, including 50 children, while nearly 1,800 have been injured. 

    Save the Children has this week distributed mattresses, blankets, pillows, water and other essential items to nearly 5,000 people in 30 shelters across the country, including in the north, the south, the Bekaa area and Mount Lebanon. 

    Save the Children staff have reported growing concern over the psychological impact on children, many of whom are showing signs of severe distress due to the displacement and constant shelling.  

    Mahmoud, a Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) Promotion Technician described the chaotic scenes he witnessed at one of the shelters supported by Save the Children in Beirut. He said: 

    “I’ve seen many in tears, completely devastated.  One woman was carrying her child along with several bags. Another woman’s child fell from her arms. The situation was tragic, and simply heartbreaking. People are still arriving, there are families sitting on the floor, waiting to be organised between different rooms. 

    There was also an incredible mobilisation by the community, with volunteers showing up to support, bringing pillows, bags, anything they could to help others.” 

    All schools in Lebanon have been closed, impacting all of the country’s 1.5 million children, with Lebanon’s already critical mental health crisis worsening as the hostilities continue to escalate.  

    Jennifer Moorehead, Save the Children’s Country Director in Lebanon said: 

    “Children are telling us that it feels like danger is everywhere, and they can never be safe. Every loud sound makes them jump now. Many children’s lives, rights and futures have already been turned upside down and now their capacity to cope with this escalating crisis has been eroded.   

    “It is still possible to avert a humanitarian catastrophe, but we must act now. We urge all parties to immediately de-escalate tensions and for international actors to pressure all parties to comply with international humanitarian law. This must happen now to prevent further suffering for children and their families.” 

    Save the Children has been working in Lebanon since 1953. Since October 2023, in response to the escalating cross-border situation, we’ve been scaling up our response in southern Lebanon, supporting children and families displaced by the violence. This includes displaced Lebanese, Syrian and Palestinian children and families. Since October 2023, we’ve supported 60,000 people, including 25,000 children with cash, blankets, mattresses and pillows, food parcels, water bottles and kits containing essential hygiene items. 

    Note to Editors:

    • At least 500,000 people have fled their homes as a result of the increasing insecurities in recent months, according to Lebanon’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. For the week of September 23, around 400,000 people were displaced in a matter of days, including an estimated 140,000 children.   

    For further enquiries please contact: 

    Randa Ghazy, Regional Media Manager for North Africa, the Middle East and Eastern Europe: Randa.Ghazy@savethechildren.org; 

    Our media out of hours (BST) contact is media@savethechildren.org.uk / +44(0)7831 650409 

    Please also check our Twitter account @Save_GlobalNews for news alerts, quotes, statements, and location Vlog

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ERO Washington, D.C. arrests Venezuelan national charged with malicious wounding, DWI, hit and run, firearms crimes in Virginia

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    WASHINGTON — Enforcement and Removal Operations Washington, D.C. apprehended an unlawfully present 30-year-old Venezuelan noncitizen charged in Virginia with malicious wounding, DWI, hit and run, and numerous firearms crimes. Officers with ERO Washington, D.C.’s Special Response Team arrested Yohandri Roger Mosquera-Rosas Sept. 12 in Springfield, Virginia.

    “Yohandri Roger Mosquera-Rosas’ charges render him a significant threat to the residents of our Northern Virginia neighborhoods,” said ERO Washington, D.C. Field Office Director. “Mosquera allegedly committed numerous firearms crimes, including one that apparently endangered a child. ERO Washington, D.C. will continue to prioritize the safety of our public by apprehending and removing egregious noncitizen offenders from our Washington, D.C. and Virginia communities.”

    U.S. Border Patrol encountered Mosquera Oct. 11, 2022, after he unlawfully entered the United States near El Paso, Texas. Officials issued Mosquera a record of arrival and lawfully paroled him into the United States. However, Mosquera violated the terms of his lawful admission.

    Fairfax County Police arrested Mosquera Jan. 1, 2023, and charged him with malicious wounding, reckless handling of a firearm, leaving a firearm loaded — endangering a child less than 14 years of age, and using a firearm in commission of a felony. Later that day, ERO lodged an immigration detainer against Mosquera with the Fairfax County Adult Detention Center. However, the detention center refused to honor ERO’s immigration detainer and released Mosquera from custody on an unknown date.

    Fairfax County Police again arrested Mosquera June 22, 2023, and charged him with using a firearm in commission of a felony. Later that day, ERO Washington, D.C. contacted the Fairfax County Adult Detention Center to lodge an immigration detainer, but Mosquera had already been released from custody.

    Fairfax County Police twice arrested Mosquera on Feb. 18 and again on May 2 and charged him with driving while intoxicated and hit and run with property damage. After each arrest, ERO lodged immigration detainers against Mosquera with the Fairfax County Adult Detention Center. On both occasions, however, the detention center refused to honor ERO’s immigration detainers and released Mosquera from custody without notification to ERO Washington, D.C.

    Officers from ERO Washington, D.C.’s SRT arrested Mosquera Sept. 12 in Springfield, Virginia. Mosquera remains in ERO custody.

    Detainers are critical public safety tools because they focus enforcement resources on removable noncitizens who have been arrested for criminal activity. Detainers increase the safety of all parties involved — ERO personnel, law enforcement officials, removable noncitizens and the public — by allowing an arrest to be made in a secure and controlled custodial setting as opposed to at-large within the community. Because detainers result in the direct transfer of a noncitizen from state or local custody to ERO custody, they also minimize the potential that an individual will reoffend. Additionally, detainers conserve scarce government resources by allowing ERO to take criminal noncitizens into custody directly rather than expending resources locating these individuals at-large.

    ERO conducts removals of individuals without a lawful basis to remain in the United States, including at the order of immigration judges with Department of Justice’s Executive Office for Immigration Review. The Executive Office for Immigration Review is a separate entity from the Department of Homeland Security and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Immigration judges in these courts make decisions based on the merits of each individual case, determining if a noncitizen is subject to a final order of removal or eligible for certain forms of relief from removal.

    Members of the public can report crimes and suspicious activity by dialing 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or completing the online tip form.

    Learn more about ICE’s mission to increase public safety in your community on X, formerly known as Twitter, at @EROWashington.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Manitoba Government on Track to Hire 1,000 Net New Health-Care Workers

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    September 26, 2024

    Manitoba Government on Track to Hire 1,000 Net New Health-Care Workers

    One year into its first term and six months into its first provincial budget, the Manitoba government is over halfway to its goal of hiring 1,000 net new health-care workers, Premier Wab Kinew and Health, Seniors and Long-Term Care Minister Uzoma Asagwara announced today at Grace Hospital. 

    “Manitobans told us clearly they want more nurses, doctors and health-care professionals working in our province,” said Kinew. “We made an ambitious promise to add 1,000 net new people into our system and today we’re proud to say we’re more than halfway to that goal. Setting big goals like this is exactly what government is for. When we work together, we can get things done that aren’t possible on our own.” 

    The premier noted the staff means Manitoba is making progress on the government’s commitment to hire hundreds of specific professions over the four-year term. From April 1 to Aug. 31, 873 net new health-care workers have been added, of which 116 are physicians, 304 are nurses, 290 are health-care aides and 87 are allied health. Staff has come into the system across the province, with increases in staffing in every region and at CancerCare Manitoba. 

    “Every new health-care worker in our province takes us one step closer to repairing the damage done by the previous government,” said Asagwara. “With staff at our side, we can make progress on shortening wait times and delivering the best quality care. “We’ve left no stone unturned when it comes to adding more staff into the system and we’re going to keep going so we can start to turn the corner on some of the most important priorities in health care. To every person who decided to pursue a career in health care, or came back to the system, thank you.” 

    The plan laid out steps taken to recruit new health-care workers, entice staff back into the system from private health care, expand opportunities for new graduates and reset the relationship with health-care staff after years of disrespect under the previous government, noted the premier. 

    The government has:

    • taken steps to change the culture in health care including sending letters to every new graduate, holding five listening tour town halls and working to hire every new graduate into the system;
    • improved safety measures for staff at major hospitals;
    • increased seats in training programs for medicine, physician assistants, occupational therapy, physiotherapy and nursing;
    • increased the number of training spots for internationally educated medical graduates;
    • launched a new Healthcare Retention and Recruitment Office focused on helping internationally educated health-care professionals find jobs or training in Manitoba;
    • changed the requirements to make it easier for nurses to return to practice; and
    • increased flexibility for nurses joining the provincial float pool.

    “Growing up watching my mom work as a nurse for over 36 years guided me to this profession that I am so fortunate to be a part of,” said Tiana Wyryha, a newly graduated nurse working in Children’s Emergency, Health Sciences Centre. “I’m so glad to work in Manitoba’s health-care system because Manitoba is my home and I strive to give back to those within my community.” 

    “Manitoba has given a lot to me. I grew up here and attended the University of Manitoba for undergrad, med school and residency,” said Dr. Matthew Buchok, psychiatrist, Health Sciences Centre. “I’m grateful to have the opportunity to stay and practice in Manitoba and have a positive impact on our community.” 

    The premier noted the numbers are a result of the government’s investments in retaining, recruiting and training more health-care workers including adding new training seats, streamlining licensing for internationally educated health-care workers and emphasizing community recruitment. The premier and minister have also sent a letter to every recent graduate to welcome them to Manitoba’s health-care system. 

    – 30 –

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: RELEASE: REPS. HILL AND GOTTHEIMER INTRODUCE BILL TO PROTECT CREDIT SCORE OF AMERICAN HOSTAGES OR WRONGFUL DETAINEES

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman French Hill (AR-02)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. French Hill (R-AR) and Rep. Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ) introduced the Fair Credit for American Hostages Act to safeguard the credit score of American hostages or wrongful detainees. Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) and Senator Chris Coons (D-DE) recently introduced similar legislation in the Senate.

    Rep. Hill said, “Americans held hostage or wrongfully detained abroad already have so much to worry about when they arrive home after this unimaginable situation. I thank my colleague Rep. Gottheimer for joining me in leading our legislation that makes it easier for these Americans to get their lives back on track and some sense of normalcy.”

    Rep. Gottheimer said, “After being held for days, weeks, and months by terrorists and our adversaries, facing unimaginable horrors, and making it home, the last thing Americans should have to worry about is a hit to their credit score. That’s why I’m proud to lead the Fair Credit for American Hostages Act with my colleague Congressman French Hill.”

    Sen. Tillis said, “It’s crazy to think an American held hostage in a foreign nation could return to a ruined credit score and financial turmoil because of their inability to make timely payments. This commonsense legislation ensures that Americans wrongfully detained abroad can move forward without worrying about how a poor credit score impacts their financial future.”

    Sen. Coons said, “Americans who have been wrongfully detained or held hostage abroad shouldn’t have to worry about their credit score when they come home, and the Fair Credit for American Hostages Act will ensure they don’t have to. I applaud Representatives Hill and Gottheimer for introducing this critical, bipartisan legislation in the House, and I’ll continue to support American hostages and their families when they come home.”

    Further Background:

    H.R. 9830 – Fair Credit for American Hostages Act: This legislation stipulates that if a former detainee or hostage provides authenticated documentation of their detention, then the credit bureaus must strike adverse information from the time of their detention. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: RI Delegation Announces $11.36 Million in State Opioid Response Grants

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Seth Magaziner (RI-02)

    WASHINGTON, DC – In an effort to save lives and better connect Rhode Islanders struggling with opioid use disorder to treatment, recovery, and prevention services, U.S. Senators Jack Reed and Sheldon Whitehouse and U.S. Representatives Seth Magaziner and Gabe Amo today announced $11,363,011 for Rhode Island through the federal State Opioid Response (SOR) grant, administered by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).

    SOR funding supports evidence-based practices to help states strengthen prevention, treatment, recovery, and harm reduction programs in their communities.  Rhode Island may use the federal grant to fund a wide range of action, including expanding access to the opioid overdose-reversal drug naxolone — better known by its brand-name Narcan — along with recovery support for those struggling with addiction.

    The three–year grant aims to connect more people to services and help prevent opioid addiction statewide; reduce the number of prescription drug/opioid overdoses; and increase access and reduce unmet needs through prevention, treatment, and by gathering data on addiction treatment and recovery resources.  The state has also used federal funding to improve data collection and tracking mechanisms to gauge the effectiveness and reach of its initiatives, creating a public dashboard at PreventOverdoseRI.org (PORI). 

    PORI provides the public with up-to-date resources for overdose prevention supplies, access to treatment, and public events.  According to PORI, using data collected from the Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH), accidental overdose deaths in Rhode Island have been trending downward in recent years, from 436 in 2022 to 164 so far in 2024.

    “Too many families have lost loved ones to overdoses and opioid addiction has shattered too many lives.  This federal funding will strengthen the state’s coordinated response to combat addiction, reduce overdose rates, and put recovery within reach for more Rhode Islanders.  It will better connect people in need to services across the continuum of prevention, harm reduction, treatment, and recovery.  This is a needed investment in saving lives, healthier communities, and helping residents affected by opioid addiction get the care and treatment they need,” said Senator Reed, a senior member of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor-Health and Human Services (L-HHS), who helped include $1.575 billion for State Opioid Response Grants in the 2024 appropriations law, as well as $2 billion for the Substance Use Prevention, Treatment, and Recovery Services Block Grant.

    “The opioid crisis has taken a heartbreaking toll on families from all walks of life in every corner of our state.  We need to ensure treatment, prevention, and recovery services are reaching the Rhode Islanders who need them,” said Senator Whitehouse, author of the Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act, the federal law guiding the federal response to the opioid epidemic.  “This federal funding will help ensure that support is available to anyone seeking out the long, noble road of recovery.”

    “Opioid addiction has impacted far too many Rhode Islanders, and we need to ensure treatment and support is readily available to those struggling with substance use,” said Rep. Seth Magaziner. “This federal funding will save lives by expanding access to services for people in recovery and overdose prevention medication like naloxone.” 

    “Opioid use disorder has impacted countless Rhode Island families,” said Congressman Gabe Amo. “Today, I’m proud to stand with my delegation colleagues as we announce more than $11 million dollars in federal funding to expand prevention, treatment, and recovery programs in our state. Let’s keep going.”

    America’s overdose crisis has been fueled by the presence of fentanyl, a dangerous synthetic opioid that has been linked to a number of overdose fatalities in Rhode Island and nationwide.  Fentanyl, which is mixed with other substances like cocaine or heroin, is dangerously potent.  Last year, 85 percent of overdoses involved any opioid, including fentanyl, while 78 percent involved fentanyl, according to RIDOH. 

    Deaths from accidental overdoses decreased by 7.3 percent last year in Rhode Island (from 436 in 2022 to 404 in 2023), the first time in four years that the number has gone down, according to the Governor’s Overdose Task Force.  Rhode Island’s decrease in overdoses was over twice the national average, with America experiencing a 3 percent decrease in accidental overdose deaths in 2023.

    The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevent (CDC) credits Rhode Island for taking steps to streamlined naloxone distribution: “Based on an assessment of community need, Rhode Island increased the availability of naloxone kits and launched a new central online ordering system to better coordinate the distribution and tracking process. This multi-agency effort streamlined naloxone procurement and distribution across the state. 

    Since 2018, Rhode Island has received over $63.2 million in SOR funding to combat opioids. 
     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: President Erdoğan’s Address to the 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly

    Source: Republic of Turkey

    ADDRESS TO THE 79TH SESSION OF THE UNITED NATIONS GENERAL ASSEMBLY
    by
    THE PRESIDENT of the REPUBLIC of TÜRKİYE,
    H.E. RECEP TAYYİP ERDOĞAN
    (24 SEPTEMBER 2024, NEW YORK)

    Mr. President, 
    Distinguished Heads of State and Government,
    Mr. Secretary General,
    Esteemed Delegates,
    I greet you with my most heartfelt feelings and respect on behalf of myself, my country and my nation.
    I am very pleased to have the opportunity to address the United Nations General Assembly once again today.
    I wish the 79th General Assembly to be beneficial to our countries and to all humanity.
    I would like to congratulate Mr. Dennis FRANCIS, who has completed his Presidency of the General Assembly, and I wish success to Mr. Philemon YANG, who assumed this duty.
    I would like to express our pleasure in seeing the Representative of the friendly and brotherly Palestine in the place he deserves among the member states, after lengthy struggles.
    I wish this historic step to be the last stage on the way to Palestine’s membership in the United Nations.
    I also invite other states, that have not yet done so, to recognize the State of Palestine as soon as possible and take their place on the right side of history at this very critical period.
    Distinguished Delegates…
    We are living through and trying to manage the crises minute by minute that most of my friends here watch on TV screens.
    Therefore, I am addressing you today as the leader of a country that is not far from the tensions, but right in their epicentre.
    Even if some feel uncomfortable, even if some will once again criticize us, I wish to speak out certain truths openly today, in the name of humanity, from the common rostrum of humanity.
    Let’s consider… the United Nations, under whose roof we are now, was established to maintain international peace and security after the Second World War, during which millions of people lost their lives.
    With the establishment of the United Nations, expectations for global stability, peace and justice blossomed again, and hopes for peace revived.
    However, we observe with regret that in recent years, the United Nations is struggling to fulfill its founding mission and is gradually turning into a dysfunctional, unwieldy and inert structure.
    We need the values represented by the maxim “THE WORLD IS BIGGER THAN FIVE”, more and more nowadays.
    We witness that international peace and security are too important to be left to the arbitrariness of the “privileged five”.
    The most dramatic example of this is the massacre that has been going on in Gaza for 353 days.
    More than 41 thousand Palestinians have lost their lives in the ongoing Israeli attacks since October 7.
    41 thousand people, 41 thousand lives brutally taken away, most of whom are children and women.
    Similarly, the whereabouts of more than 10 thousand Gazans, most of whom are children, is unknown.
    In the same way, about 100 thousand people have been injured and become disabled.
    172 journalists have been killed while trying to do their job under difficult conditions.
    More than 500 paramedics working to save lives have been killed.
    Humanitarian aid workers and more than 210 United Nations personnel, who rushed to the rescue of the people of Gaza struggling with hunger and thirst, have been killed.
    They hit 820 mosques and 3 churches that should be protected even at war.
    They hit tens of hospitals, hundreds of schools, and more than 130 ambulances carrying patients.
    By tearing down the Charter of the United Nations at the United Nations rostrum, they shamelessly challenged the whole world, all the conscientious people right from here, from this rostrum.
    Friends…
    The leaked images from the prisons that Israel has turned into “concentration camps” indicate very clearly what kind of persecution we are facing.
    As a result of the Israeli attacks, Gaza has become the largest cemetery for children and women in the world.
    More than 17 thousand children have been the targets of Israeli bullets and bombs.
    HİND RAJAB was only 6 years old.
    Their vehicle was hit by Israeli forces while she was searching for a safe place with her relatives.
    Her uncle, aunt-in-law, and cousins all died, only she survived.
    For 12 days she waited desperately to be rescued.
    She waited for a helping hand to reach out to her for 12 days, saying, “WILL YOU COME TO PICK ME UP? I AM SCARED!”
    Despite the level of development which our world has reached, despite the technology at our disposal; despite our organisations with huge budgets employing thousands of personnel under their roofs, unfortunately, as humanity of 8 billion, we have not been able to save a 6-year-old girl, an injured sparrow fluttering in front of our eyes.
    Hundreds of Gazan children have died so far because they were not able to find a bite of dry bread, a sip of water or a bowl of soup, and they are still dying.
    Not only children are dying in Gaza; the United Nations system is also dying, the truth is dying, the values that the west claims to defend are dying, the hopes of humanity to live in a fairer world are dying one by one.
    I am asking you frankly from here…
    HUMAN RIGHTS ORGANISATIONS!
    Are the ones in Gaza, the ones in the West Bank not human beings? 
    The children in Palestine, do they not have the right to study, live, and play in the streets?
    INTERNATIONAL PRESS ORGANISATIONS!
    The journalists that Israel massacred on live TV, whose offices were raided, are they not your colleagues?
    THE UNITED NATIONS SECURITY COUNCIL!
    What are you waiting for to prevent the genocide in Gaza and to say “stop” to this cruelty, this barbarism?
    What more are you waiting for to stop the massacre network that endangers also the lives of its own citizens along with the Palestinian people and drags the entire region into war for the sake of its political prospects?
    AND THOSE WHO UNCONDITIONALLY SUPPORT ISRAEL!
    For how long will you continue to bear the shame of looking on this massacre, of being accomplices in this atrocity?
    Distinguished Friends…
    While children are dying in Gaza, Ramallah, Lebanon, and babies are dying in incubators, unfortunately, the international community has also given a very bad account of itself.
    What is happening in Palestine is an indicator of a huge moral breakdown.
    I believe that all the peoples of the world, leaders, international organisations should reflect on this painful picture.
    I also want to hereby express a truth loud and clear.
    Ignoring basic human rights, the Israeli government, is practicing ethnic cleansing, an overt genocide against a nation, a people, and occupying their territory step by step.
    Palestinians, whose freedom, independence and the most basic rights have been usurped, are very rightly exercising their “LEGITIMATE RIGHT OF RESISTANCE” against this occupation and these ethnic cleansing activities.
    The rightful resistance of the Palestinian people against those who occupy their land is too noble, honourable, heroic to be portrayed as illegitimate.
    From here, I wholeheartedly salute once again my Palestinian brothers who defend their country at the cost of their lives.
    The only reason for Israel’s aggression against the Palestinian people is the unconditional support of a handful of countries to Israel.
    The countries that have an influence over Israel are openly becoming accomplices of this massacre with the policy of “run with the hare, hunt with the hounds”.
    Those who are supposedly working for a ceasefire in the limelight continue to send weapons and ammunition to Israel behind the stage, so that it can continue its massacres.
    This is inconsistency and insincerity.
    Please consider … there’s a document that has been going back and forth since May.
    HAMAS has repeatedly declared its acceptance of the ceasefire proposal.
    However, the Israeli government has very clearly indicated that it is the party that does not want peace by continuously hampering the process, constantly finding excuses, perfidiously killing the interlocutor it negotiated with at a time when the ceasefire was closest.
    There should be no more credit given to Israel’s distraction and deception moves.
    In an environment where United Nations Security Council Resolution 2735 is not being implemented, coercive measures against Israel should be put on the agenda.
    Israel’s attitude has once again shown that it is essential for the international community to develop a protection mechanism for Palestinian civilians.
    Just as HITLER was stopped by the alliance of humanity 70 years ago, Netanyahu and his murder network must be stopped by the “alliance of humanity”.
    We believe that the power of the General Assembly to make recommendations on the use of force, as it exists in the “Uniting for Peace Resolution dated 1950”, should definitely be considered in this process.
    An immediate and permanent ceasefire should be achieved, a hostage-prisoner exchange should be carried out, and humanitarian aid should be delivered to Gaza in an unhindered and uninterrupted way.
    We have to extend a helping hand to the people of Gaza trying to survive, especially before winter when conditions will deteriorate.
    Please consider, 70 percent of the water resources and 75 percent of the ovens in Gaza have been destroyed until now.
    95 percent of health centres have been partially or completely damaged.
    150 thousand houses were completely destroyed, 200 thousand houses were partially destroyed, 80 thousand houses became uninhabitable.
    Infectious diseases, especially polio and hepatitis, are gradually increasing.
    The people of Gaza can only reach a quarter of the amount of aid they need.
    As Türkiye, we have maintained and are continuing to maintain our humanitarian aid activities for our Palestinian brothers since the first day.
    With the amount of aid exceeding 60 thousand tons, Türkiye is the country that sends the highest amount of aid to Gaza. 
    In the same way, by stopping commercial transactions with Israel, we have demonstrated our sensitivity on this issue.
    We also stand with the people and government of Lebanon, where Israel has stepped up its attacks in recent days.
    Now we can all see this truth:
    Our conscience cannot be at peace until those who massacred 41 thousand people are held accountable for the crimes they committed, from the person who gives the order to the ones who pull the trigger, and drop the bomb.
    The bill for the billions of dollars of damage at the destroyed, wiped out, demolished cities must and will definitely be compensated by the perpetrators.
    We support the lawsuit filed by the Republic of South Africa at the International Court of Justice to ensure that the crimes committed by Israel do not go unpunished.
    We will take all necessary steps to ensure that justice is served in this case in which we have applied for intervention.
    We will make every legal struggle to find justice for our daughter Ayşenur Ezgi Eygi, who was shot in the head by Israeli soldiers during a peaceful protest in Nablus.
    Although there is an urgent need for a ceasefire in Gaza, the main issue is the occupation of Palestinian territories by Israel.
    Creation of an independent, sovereign and geographically contiguous Palestinian State on the basis of the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital can no longer be delayed.
    I would like it to be known that we are also closely following the increasing attacks against our first Qibla, Al-Masjid al-Aqsa and Al-Haram Al-Sharif.
    While saying all this as Tayyip Erdoğan, I never speak with empty words from this rostrum.  
    Here, I am speaking with the courage that I get from my history and the conscientious and fair stance of my ancestors. 
    Because we are a nation that has always been on the side of the oppressed and stood against oppressor and tyranny throughout history.
    We had welcomed the Jews who escaped from the inquisition 500 years ago and the Jews who escaped from Hitler’s concentration camps.
    I tell it frankly; as a country and as a nation, we have no hostility towards the people of Israel.
    We are against ANTI-SEMITISM in the same way that we are against the targeting of Muslims just because of their beliefs.
    Our problem is with the policies of massacre of the Israeli government.
    Our problem is again with the oppressor and tyranny, just as it was 5 centuries ago.
    Everyone should know that we do not refrain from crying out the truth.
    Even if some feel uncomfortable, we are not afraid to tell the truth.
    Insha’Allah, we will continue to stand by the righteous until the end and speak of what we know as truth, even if it is harsh. 
    Hereby, I would also like to thank all the brave people who show solidarity with the Palestinian people without distinction of faith, country, language or religion, and raise their voice against the massacre in Gaza by filling the streets almost every week.
    Distinguished Delegates…
    Unfortunately, in the 14th year of the conflict, Syria is also still far from stability.
    The economic and humanitarian situation in the country, which is in the grip of terrorist and separatist organizations remains dire.
    We hope that the political process will be advanced and national reconciliation will be achieved on the basis of United Nations Security Council Resolution 2254.
    We are determined to maintain our position in favour of a realistic dialogue with sincerity.
    While our neighbour Iraq continues its struggle against terrorism, it is taking decisive steps towards development, reconstruction and reintegration with the region.
    The international community should support these efforts of Iraq.
    It is important in this context to implement initiatives that will benefit the entire region, such as the Development Road Project.
    The success of all these efforts depends on the elimination of the terrorist threat in Iraq, especially from the PKK.
    We believe that taking steps towards reviving the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action with our other neighbour Iran will contribute to the establishment of the environment of trust and stability in the region. 
    As the third year of the war in Ukraine comes to an end, we are still far from reaching a just and lasting peace.
    As the armament race accelerates, the field of diplomacy is gradually narrowing.
    We will further increase our support to the efforts to end the war through diplomacy and dialogue, on the basis of Ukraine’s territorial integrity and sovereignty.
    In this process, we will continue to meticulously implement the Montreux Convention.
    We support the peace process between Azerbaijan and Armenia, and we hope that the work will be completed with good news as soon as possible.
    We are also taking mutually positive steps on the Türkiye-Armenia track.
    The developments that can be achieved in the Azerbaijan-Armenia peace process will also have a positive impact on the Türkiye-Armenia normalization process.
    Esteemed Friends…
    We play a constructive role for the prosperity and peace of the Balkans, of which we are an integral part, and act in close cooperation with all actors in the region. 
    As a member of the Steering Board of the Peace Implementation Council, we emphasize the importance of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s sovereignty, political unity and territorial integrity on every platform, and we continue to contribute to the EUFOR-ALTHEA Operation.
    We successfully continue the KFOR command that we assumed last year and support the Belgrade-Prishtina Dialogue process.
    We want to see the Aegean Sea and the Eastern Mediterranean as a region of stability and prosperity where the legitimate interests of all parties concerned are respected.
    The limitation of maritime jurisdiction areas in accordance with international law, freedom and safety of navigation, and the development of cooperation, especially on maritime trade issues, are to the common interest of the entire region.
    Türkiye is ready for constructive cooperation on all issues, especially energy and environment.
    We expect the same approach from our neighbours.
    As the country with the longest coastline in the Eastern Mediterranean, Türkiye’s key role is undeniable.
    Türkiye has rights to the north and west of the Island of Cyprus in the declared continental shelf and Turkish Cypriots have rights all around the Island.
    It has been 50 years since the Cyprus Peace Operation and 61 years since the Cyprus issue emerged as a result of the usurpation of the partnership state by Greek Cypriots.
    From that day to this, peace and tranquillity have prevailed on the Island.
    It has always been the Turkish Cypriots and Türkiye that have shown a sincere will to bring about a just, permanent and sustainable solution to the Cyprus issue.
    The federation model has now completely lost its validity.
    There are two separate states and two separate peoples on the island.
    The sovereign equality and equal international status of the Turkish Cypriots, which are their inherent rights, should be reaffirmed, and the isolation should now come to an end.
    Today, I once again call on the international community to recognize the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus and establish with it diplomatic, political and economic relations.
    We provide active support to the establishment of stability in Libya and the preservation of the unity and integrity of the country.
    We call on all states to take a sincere stand by Libya during this sensitive period and to contribute to the establishment of trust between the parties.
    We need to exert more efforts to end the conflicts in Sudan.
    We all have a responsibility to deliver humanitarian aid to millions of Sudanese displaced due to conflicts.
    Africa has a very huge potential with its young and dynamic population, rich natural resources and fertile extensive lands.
    On the basis of the principles of equal partnership and mutual respect, we support the Continent’s peace, stability and development efforts with the African peoples.
    We will continue to be in full solidarity with our African brothers and sisters.
    We are deepening our engagement with regional organizations, such as the Indian Ocean Rim Association, the Pacific Islands Forum and particularly ASEAN.
    We maintain our will to develop our relations with BRICS, which brings together emerging economies.
    We share a deep-rooted history with the Central Asian countries; we further strengthen our cooperation on bilateral and multilateral grounds.
    Our Organisation of Turkic States is increasingly turning into a centre of attraction.
    The Organisation is becoming an exemplary model of cooperation, also with the contributions of observer members Hungary and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus.
    As the Turkic world, we will further strengthen our unity and solidarity.
    Within the framework of respect for China’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, we are in close dialogue with China to protect the fundamental rights and freedoms of the Uighur Turks, with whom we have strong historical, cultural and human ties.
    We are trying to advance the friendly ties we have established with all the countries in Latin America and the Caribbean to a further stage.
    Distinguished Delegates…
    We are obliged to work together to eliminate global injustice.
    The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals’ notion of “leave no one behind” is a guide for these efforts.
    As one of the countries that provide the highest aid in proportion to its national income, Türkiye’s activities contribute to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals.
    We support the activities that will ensure fair, inclusive growth and development on all international platforms, especially within the G20.
    We believe that all nations should benefit equally from the transformative power of emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence.
    The United Nations Technology Bank for the Least Developed Countries that we host is a concrete manifestation of our efforts in this direction.
    The “cyber terrorist attacks” perpetrated against Lebanon last week demonstrated how these technologies can at the same time turn into a fatal weapon.
    We address climate change with a similar approach.
    No country can cope with the emission reduction and adaptation process to climate change alone.
    The most important issues for developing countries are financing, technology transfer and capacity building.
    I believe that the COP29 Climate Summit to be held in Baku will contribute to the solution of these issues.
    With the vision of a more sustainable and cleaner world, we have carried the Zero Waste Movement, which we launched under the auspices of my Spouse, Mrs. Emine Erdoğan, to a global level with the resolution co-sponsored by 105 countries and adopted unanimously at the United Nations General Assembly.
    Hereby, I invite all countries, international organisations and non-governmental organisations to become partners in our movement.
    We see that Islamophobia, xenophobia and racism are enveloping the world like a poison ivy.
    Hardly a day goes by that we do not witness attacks on mosques and our holy book, the Holy Quran.
    In the middle of Europe, people’s houses are being set on fire; their lives are being targeted; their most fundamental rights are being usurped because of their ethnic and religious identities.
    No one can ignore this growing danger any longer.
    As stipulated in the resolution adopted on 15 March 2024, we expect the appointment of a “Special Envoy for Combating Islamophobia” at the United Nations as soon as possible.
    Distinguished Friends…
    Today I would like to draw your attention once again to a danger that I raised at this rostrum last year.
    The attacks against the family institution, which is the basic pillar of society, are intensifying.
    The disgrace staged at the opening of the 2024 Olympic Games has revealed the dimensions of the threat we face as humanity.
    A sports event followed by innocent children and hundreds of millions of people of all ages and faiths has been used, in a very ugly manner, for degenderization propaganda.
    Those wicked scenes have deeply wounded not only the Catholic world, the Christian world, but also Muslims and everyone who respects the sacred.
    The issue of desexualisation is now turning into a global imposition rather than a “preference”, literally a war against the sacred and the creation.
    Anyone who raises a voice against this destruction project and shows the slightest reaction is silenced and becomes the target of lynching campaigns.
    Türkiye is determined to break this siege and resist this climate of fear at all cost.
    For this purpose, we became a member of the United Nations Group of Friends of the Family.
    Insha’Allah, we will not hold back from defending the family, the human being and the creation in solidarity with other member states.
    I invite the countries that share the same concerns with us to support this struggle.
    With these thoughts, I wish that the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly will be beneficial for all humanity.
    I salute you all once again with affection and respect.
    May you all remain in good health…

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: U.S. House Passes Sinema-Backed Bipartisan Building Chips in America Act

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Kyrsten Sinema (Arizona)
     Senator’s legislation streamlines semiconductor manufacturing projects funding from Sinema’s CHIPS and Science law
    WASHINGTON – The U.S House of Representatives passed the Building Chips in America Act — bipartisan legislation Arizona senior Senator Kyrsten Sinema introduced with U.S. Senators Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Todd Young (R-Ind.), Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.), and Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.). The legislation streamlines lengthy National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) review requirements that would severely delay the completion of semiconductor manufacturing projects funded through Sinema’s CHIPS and Science law. 
    “In order to remain globally competitive in semiconductor manufacturing, we must cut red tape to fuel the completion of critical facilities and projects. I’m thrilled our bipartisan bill passed the U.S. House — and I look forward to it being signed into law,” said Sinema. 
    Last year, Sinema and a group of nearly 120 bipartisan, bicameral lawmakers called for the inclusion of the Building Chips in America Act in the annual bipartisan defense legislation. The Building Chips in America Act cleared the Senate as part of the annual bipartisan defense legislation with broad, bipartisan support. In their letter, Sinema and her colleagues urged the Armed Services Committees leaders to maintain the commonsense bill in the final version of the annual defense legislation. After not passing as part of the House’s annual defense legislation it was passed unanimously by the Senate in December. 
    Sinema worked for nearly two years to negotiate and champion the CHIPS and Science Act, a $52 billion plan to boost domestic microchip manufacturing. Thanks to her leadership, Arizona is well positioned to become a global hub for microelectronics research, development, testing, manufacturing, and packaging. With new semiconductor facilities being constructed in Maricopa County, Arizona workers are already feeling the impact of this historic law.
    In June 2020, Sinema first introduced the CHIPS for America Act with Senators John Cornyn (R-Texas) and Mark Warner (D-Va.) to bring semiconductor manufacturing back to the United States. The CHIPS and Science Act included the funding to make Sinema’s CHIPS in America Act operational. Sinema was instrumental in passing the bipartisan CHIPS and Science Act into law, partnering with Republican Senator Todd Young (Ind.) to prevent the legislation from partisan collapse on the Senate floor.
    Since the passage of the CHIPS and Science Act, more than $60 billion in private investment for 38 semiconductor industry projects have been announced in Arizona.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kennedy, Coons introduce resolution celebrating wildlife, Louisiana wetlands

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator John Kennedy (Louisiana)
    MADISONVILLE, La. – Sens. John Kennedy (R-La.) and Chris Coons (D-Del.) introduced a bill designating Oct. 13 through 19 as National Wildlife Refuge Week. The resolution praises the benefits of national wildlife refuges and recognizes their role in promoting hunting, fishing and conservation.
    “Louisiana is home to more than 23 refuges that help protect our state’s unique species and make us the sportsman’s paradise. This Wildlife Refuge Week, I am grateful for the opportunity to promote America’s natural environment as we preserve these ecosystems for future generations to revel in and enjoy,” said Kennedy. 
    “For over 100 years, the National Wildlife Refuge System has protected our wildlife and ecosystems in Delaware and across the nation while strengthening local economies. Wildlife refuges like Bombay Hook and Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuges, which collectively cover over 10,000 acres, maintain a healthy ecosystem, local aesthetics, and recreational opportunities in the First State. I am proud to lead the bipartisan National Wildlife Refuge Week resolution alongside Senator Kennedy as we continue to support and conserve biodiversity,” said Coons. 
    The National Wildlife Refuge System generates more than $3.2 billion for local economies and supports 41,000 jobs.
    The resolution is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kennedy secures flood insurance, disaster aid wins for Louisianians

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator John Kennedy (Louisiana)
    MADISONVILLE, La. – Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.), a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, helped secure an extension of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) as part of the recent government funding package. Kennedy also helped secure language in the bill to help provide urgent disaster aid to Louisiana in the wake of Hurricane Francine.
    “Our state is still picking up the pieces that Hurricane Francine left behind, and our communities need all the help they can get. I’m thankful we’ve delivered Louisianians additional disaster aid and protected their flood insurance so that the program doesn’t expire in the middle of hurricane season,” said Kennedy.
    Kennedy helped prevent the NFIP from expiring on Sept. 30 by securing an extension of the program until Dec. 20, 2024. 
    Kennedy also helped secure disaster relief in the continuing resolution that will help Louisianians recover from Hurricane Francine by allowing the Federal Emergency Management Agency to provide aid for future storms. 
    These disaster funds can provide Louisiana with emergency shelter, food and medical assistance, as well as long-term recovery efforts such as rebuilding public infrastructure, housing assistance and supporting small businesses. The funds may also cover mitigation measures to reduce the risk of future disasters and help communities become more resilient.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: UPDATED: Man charged with murder of man in Haringey

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Detectives investigating the murder of a man, whose body was found in a Haringey flat, have charged a man.

    Police were called at about 21:45hrs on Friday, 20 September, following concerns for the occupant of an address in Moselle Avenue, N22.

    Officers attended and forced entry into the flat, where they discovered the man deceased.

    He has been named as 40-year-old Marvin Dickson. His family have been informed and are being supported by specialist officers.

    On Sunday, 22 September a 36-year-old man, Dante Forrest (15.09.88), of Moselle Avenue, N22, was arrested in the Edmonton area on suspicion of murder.

    He was charged with murder on Wednesday, 25 September and will appear in custody at Highbury Corner Magistrates’ Court on Thursday, 26 September.

    Detectives from the Specialist Crime Command are leading the investigation. A special post-mortem examination held on Sunday, 22 September, found Martin’s cause of death to be blunt force trauma.

    Anyone with information that can assist the investigation is asked to call police on 101 and quote reference CAD 8320/20Sep. To remain anonymous, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or visit crimestoppers-uk.org.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: State Parks Closures Due to Hurricane Helene, Including Monarch Festival Cancellation

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: State Parks Closures Due to Hurricane Helene, Including Monarch Festival Cancellation

    State Parks Closures Due to Hurricane Helene, Including Monarch Festival Cancellation
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    Due to expected impacts of Hurricane Helene, Gorges State Park and Mount Mitchell State Park will be closed Thursday and Friday, Sept. 26-27.

    The Mountain Monarch Festival at Gorges, scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 28, has been cancelled.

    The Blue Ridge Parkway expects to be closed for the next several days. Mount Mitchell State Park will reopen when the Parkway reopens.

    The N.C. Division of Parks and Recreation will continue to monitor the situation over the next few days. Closures may be extended or added in western North Carolina as the storm moves through the region. Visitors should check the park pages on ncparks.gov for the most up-to-date status of facilities and parks. Parks and facilities will reopen when staff can confirm that conditions are safe to do so.

    About the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources
    The N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR) manages, promotes, and enhances the things that people love about North Carolina – its diverse arts and culture, rich history, and spectacular natural areas. Through its programs, the department enhances education, stimulates economic development, improves public health, expands accessibility, and strengthens community resiliency.
    The department manages over 100 locations across the state, including 27 historic sites, seven history museums, two art museums, five science museums, four aquariums, 35 state parks, four recreation areas, dozens of state trails and natural areas, the North Carolina Zoo, the State Library, the State Archives, the N.C. Arts Council, the African American Heritage Commission, the American Indian Heritage Commission, the State Historic Preservation Office, the Office of State Archaeology, the Highway Historical Markers program, the N.C. Land and Water Fund, and the Natural Heritage Program. For more information, please visit www.dncr.nc.gov.
    Sep 26, 2024

    MIL OSI USA News –