NewzIntel.com

Category: AM-NC

  • MIL-OSI USA: Overturning the Biden-Harris De Facto EV Mandate

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Bruce Westerman (AR-04)

    Exactly six months ago, the Biden-Harris Administration’s EPA announced its overreaching and unrealistic vehicle tailpipe emissions rule, which is essentially a de facto ban on the sale of gas-powered and traditional hybrid vehicles, forcing automakers to produce and sell more electric vehicles (EVs). This tone-deaf rule was just another attempt by the Biden-Harris Administration to cater to extreme climate activists.

    Not only are EVs proven less reliable than vehicles with internal combustion engines, but they can also present major financial challenges for consumers in rural areas, like much of the 4th District. This is a reality that can’t be ignored. To make matters worse, scientific data shows that the Biden-Harris Administration’s preposterous push for electrification may actually do more harm than good for our environment.

    If all U.S. passenger cars and light-duty trucks were magically converted to EVs overnight, global greenhouse gas emissions would [theoretically] only be reduced by less than 1% (0.89%), according to data from the U.S. Government. That statistic doesn’t even consider the embedded carbon in EVs due to the massive amounts of mining and mineral processing required to build EVs, nor does it consider the added electricity generation required to meet the needs to power that many EVs. On top of all this, we’re handing the keys to China to produce EV batteries, while taxpayers foot the bill for hundreds of billions of dollars to fund it. This is not only flawed science and lousy policy but would also result in devastating environmental outcomes and economics.

    While EVs are an innovative technology that may be right for some consumers, they are not the solution for long-term and meaningful emissions reductions. They certainly should not be forced onto the American consumer by the federal government, nor should taxpayer dollars fund their production under the false guise of saving the planet.

    I am committed to standing up to onerous rules like this that threaten Americans’ consumer rights. I’m proud to share that this week, the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.J. Res 136, a Congressional Review Act (CRA), that I cosponsored to overturn the EPA’s asinine tailpipe vehicle emissions rule. CRAs are tools that Congress can utilize to protect Americans from overreaching rules issued by federal agencies, such as this one. H.J. Res 136 will be a major step in safeguarding our environment and defending Americans’ consumer choice. With the Passage of this CRA, we’re ensuring that American consumers – not the Biden-Harris EPA – decide for themselves what vehicle works best for their families.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Emergency Conflagration Act invoked for Service Fire in Wheeler County

    Source: US State of Oregon

    span dir=”ltr”>The Oregon State Fire Marshal mobilized resources to the Service Fire in Wheeler County overnight as the fire, pushed by gusty winds and critical fire conditions, rapidly grew Monday. The lightning-sparked fire is estimated to be 15,000 acres as of Monday night. The Wheeler County Sheriff has issued levels 1, 2, and 3 evacuation notices. You can find the latest on evacuations here.

    Over the weekend, two task forces assigned to the Shoe Fly Fire were reassigned to the Service Fire through Immediate Response. Two additional task forces from Marion and Clatsop counties arrived Monday night, bringing the total to four task forces.

    The OSFM will coordinate structural protection resources with the Oregon Department of Forestry Incident Management Team 2, which is managing the Service Fire.

    “We are anticipating cooler weather over the next week and that should decrease fire behavior. The OSFM continues to use every tool at our disposal to protect people, property, and critical infrastructure from wildfire,” Oregon State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz-Temple said. “This has been a challenging summer for our hardworking firefighters, and we encourage everyone to remain vigilant.”

    A community meeting for the Service Fire is planned for Wednesday, September 11 at the Fossil Elementary School Gymnasium at 6:30 p.m. Please use the west entrance.

    This is the 17th time the Emergency Conflagration Act was invoked this year.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri Delivers Remarks at the Society of Corporate Compliance and Ethics 23rd Annual Compliance & Ethics Institute

    Source: US Justice – Antitrust Division

    Headline: Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri Delivers Remarks at the Society of Corporate Compliance and Ethics 23rd Annual Compliance & Ethics Institute

    Thank you for inviting me to speak at the Society of Corporate Compliance and Ethics (SCCE). The work you do at SCCE supports compliance and ethics professionals across industries. I’m so pleased to be here with the practitioners virtually who work every day to establish and maintain effective corporate compliance programs that help prevent misconduct before it begins.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Davis Celebrates House Passage of His Bipartisan Bill to Reform Child Welfare to Protect America’s Children

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Danny K Davis (7th District of Illinois)

    Bill Would Increase Guaranteed Funding for Key Child Welfare Services for the First Time Since 2006

     

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, Danny K. Davis (D-IL) celebrated the passage by the House of Representatives of his bipartisan legislation with Rep. Darin LaHood (R-IL) to reauthorize and reform child welfare programs under Title IV-B of the Social Security Act. The bipartisan Protecting America’s Children by Strengthening Families Act passed the House by a vote of 405 to 10 as part of H.R. 9076, Supporting America’s Children and Families Act, as amended”.  The bill  reauthorizes Title IV-B and delivers the first increase in guaranteed funding since 2006. With approximately 369,000 children currently in foster care, this legislation offers vital assistance to help strengthen and keep families together and support the safety and well-being of children in foster care.  

    The Protecting America’s Children by Strengthening Families Act encompasses policies from 16 different pieces of legislation from both Republican and Democrat members of the Ways and Means Committee. The bill follows the Committee’s extensive, year-long review of the nation’s child welfare programs to identify areas where these programs could better serve children and families.

    Rep. Danny K. Davis (D-IL) said, “I am proud to join with Chair LaHood in leading this important bill that will increase guaranteed funding for the MaryLee Allen Promoting Safe and Stable Families program for the first time since 2006. In addition to providing essential new funding for both state and tribal agencies to strengthen families, this bill includes significant investments and policy updates to improve child safety and well-being. For example, it invests in aiding kinship caregivers in finding needed resources, in evidence-based programs that successfully help parents overcome substance use disorders to safely care for their children, and in independent legal representation to address racial inequities in child welfare. This bill also provides for new demonstration projects to promote meaningful relationships between foster youth and their incarcerated parents, powerful relationships that support both parents and youth.”

    Key policies included in the Protecting America’s Children by Strengthening Families Act:

    • Reauthorizes Title IV-B for five years and makes reforms to modernize the program.
    • Reduces paperwork and data reporting for state agencies and caseworkers by at least 15 percent.
    • Strengthens support systems for the 2.5 million grandparents and relatives providing kinship care for children who would otherwise enter foster care.
    • Improves access for Indian tribes by streamlining funding, as well as monitoring state engagement with the Indian Child Welfare Act.
    • Addresses the caseworker crises by ensuring caseworkers have access to technology and training that support a strong workforce.
    • Improves outcomes for youth transitioning from foster care, including by allowing foster youth up to age 26 to be eligible for services and incorporating lived experience in the state planning of child welfare plans.
    • Supports the expansion of evidence-based services to prevent child abuse and neglect and ensures children are not separated from parents solely due to poverty-related neglect.
    • Supports adoption services by evaluating the effectiveness of pre- and post-adoption services available under Title IV-B to adopt the more than 65,000 children waiting to be adopted.

    The bill is supported by 228 national, state, and local organizations, including:  American Academy of Pediatrics; American Psychological Association Services, Inc.; American Public Human Services Association; Bolder Horizon; Child Welfare League of America; Children and Family Futures; Children’s Defense Fund; Children’s Trust Fund Alliance; Family Focused Treatment Association; FosterClub; Generations United; National Association of Counsel for Children; National Association of Counties; National Association of County Human Services Administrators; National Child Abuse Coalition; National Family Resource Coalition; National Indian Child Welfare Association; Prevent Child Abuse America; Think of Us; Voice for Adoption; and Zero to Three.

    A summary of the Protecting America’s Children by Strengthening Families Act is available here; a section-by-section of the bill is here.

    Representative Davis serves on the House Committee on Ways and Means as the most senior Democrat on the Subcommittee with jurisdiction over child welfare.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: WHAT THEY’RE SAYING: National Groups Applaud Graves-Spanberger Discharge Petition Reaching 218 Signatures

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Garret Graves (6th District of Louisiana)

    Following the discharge petition led by U.S. Representatives Garret Graves (R-LA-06) and Abigail Spanberger (D-VA-07) reaching the 218 signatures necessary to force a vote in the U.S. House of Representatives on their bipartisan Social Security Fairness Act to eliminate both the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and the Government Pension Offset (GPO), several organizations representing the interests of America’s public servants celebrated this progress, applauded the lawmakers who led and supported this effort, and urged swift votes in the U.S. House and U.S. Senate.

    Earlier this month, Graves and Spanberger filed a discharge petition to force a vote on their bipartisan legislation that would eliminate both the WEP and GPO. These two provisions unfairly reduce or eliminate earned Social Security benefits for approximately 2.8 million Americans who’ve devoted much of their careers to public service — including police officers, firefighters, educators, and federal, state, and local government employees.

    After this major milestone was reached, the National Fraternal Order of Police, International Association of Fire Fighters, National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association, American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees, National Association of Letter Carriers, National Rural Letter Carriers’ Association, National Treasury Employees Union, Senior Citizens League, American Federation of Teachers, National Education Association, American Federation of School Administrators, Peace Officers Research Association of California, and California Retired Teachers Association shared their strong support.

    “For 40 years, millions of public servants have seen their benefits stolen by a grossly unfair system. Now, the ‘Social Security Fairness Act’ is guaranteed to receive a vote on the floor on the U.S. House of Representatives. If the bill passes, we will be one step closer to the full repeal of the Windfall Elimination Provision and Government Pension Offset. I want to thank the bill’s sponsors, Representatives Garret N. Graves (R-LA) and Abigail D. Spanberger (D-VA), for their instrumental roles in helping get us to this point. It is a momentous occasion,” said Patrick Yoes, National President, National Fraternal Order of Police. “We need the vote in the House and then we need to get time on the Senate floor.”

    “For decades, Social Security benefits have been stolen from retired fire fighters simply because they chose a career in public service. We are excited to see a majority of House Members clearly demand that we stop this shameful denial of benefits. The success of this discharge petition is a historic event and sends the message that our nation values retired fire fighters and fairness,” said Edward A. Kelly, General President, International Association of Fire Fighters. “We now turn our focus to the House Floor to demand the passage of H.R. 82. The IAFF also applauds Representatives Spanberger and Graves for their courageous and bipartisan leadership to ensure our retirees have a dignified and secure retirement.”

    “WEP and GPO penalize hardworking Americans for serving their communities, states, and country, simply because they earned a pension through that service. With 218 signatures on the discharge petition to bring H.R. 82, the Social Security Fairness Act, to the House floor, public servants will finally get the vote they deserve,” said William “Bill” Shackelford, National President, National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association. “I would like to express heartfelt appreciation to every member of the House who signed the petition. You give voice to the millions to public servants impacted by these penalties. I would also like to thank the legion of grassroots advocates from NARFE and other allied organizations who engaged with their members of Congress to make sure they heard the views of their constituents on this issue. Your efforts made this achievement possible.”

    “For too long, countless public service workers and their families have unjustly been denied the Social Security benefits they earned. And too often, they’ve been forced to work well into their golden years to survive,” said Lee Saunders, President, American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees. “We celebrate the progress made on bringing the Social Security Fairness Act to the front of the agenda, and we urge the House and Senate to move quickly and vote to pass this critical, bipartisan legislation. After a lifetime of strengthening our communities, our nation’s public service workers deserve what they sacrificed for – the freedom to retire with dignity.”

    “The National Association of Letter Carriers appreciates Rep. Graves and Rep. Spanberger’s leadership on this issue that affects many retired letter carriers. We are grateful to every single member who signed the discharge petition and look forward to their support when the bill comes to the House floor for a vote,” said Brian Renfroe, President, National Association of Letter Carriers. “For far too long, letter carriers and our fellow retired public servants have been robbed of their hard-earned retirement benefits. We are closer than ever to righting this wrong, and NALC is committed to continuing our advocacy to finally get this bill signed into law.”

    “The NRLCA applauds Rep. Graves and Rep. Spanberger for their leadership on repealing the Windfall Elimination Provision and the Government Pension Offset,” said Don Maston, President, National Rural Letter Carriers’ Association. “We would also like to thank all the Members who signed the discharge petition to end the unjust penalties that impact many of our retirees by reducing their hard-earned retirement benefits.

    “NTEU appreciates all of the hard work Reps. Graves and Spanberger have done leading on H.R. 82 and we want to thank every Member of Congress who signed on to the discharge petition,” said Doreen Greenwald, National President, National Treasury Employees Union. “We look forward to seeing the full House finally vote to repeal the Windfall Elimination Provision and Government Pension Offset.”

    “The discharge petition for H.R. 82, the Social Security Fairness Act, with the necessary 218 signatures, is applauded by The Senior Citizens League. This bipartisan petition and its signers are helping to restore faith in government among those affected by the WEP and GPO,” said Shannon Benton, Executive Director, The Senior Citizens League. “This effort demonstrates that the government can take meaningful action, cares about its public servants impacted by this issue, and is committed to making a difference. The league looks forward to the bill getting to the House floor for a vote!”

    “For far too long educators, school support staff and public employees have seen their Social Security benefits decimated by the Windfall Elimination Provision and the Government Pension Offset. Yesterday, because of the ceaseless organizing of activists from across the country, 218 members of Congress signed a discharge petition demanding that a bill repealing WEP and GPO be voted on, so hardworking folks and retirees aren’t subject to benefit reductions that impact their ability to afford basic necessities,” said Randi Weingarten, President, American Federation of Teachers. “This is a historic milestone in the fight for economic dignity in retirement, and it’s time for Congress to get the job done and finally pass the Social Security Fairness Act (H.R. 82).”

    “Educators dedicate their lives to public service, but when it’s time to retire, far too many find that they have been stripped of Social Security and retirement benefits due to an unjust and morally wrong penalty. Not only do the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and Government Pension Offset (GPO) exclusively punish educators, firefighters, and police officers, but these laws discourage people from pursuing public service careers,” said Becky Pringle, President, National Education Association. “Today marks a major milestone brought forth by the tireless advocacy of educators and other public servants. On behalf of the 3 million members of the National Education Association, I urge Congress to bring up the bipartisan Social Security Fairness Act as soon as possible because this bill would help eliminate the unfair penalty for retirement benefits. Record levels of Americans are demanding a change to these archaic and punitive laws. The time to act is now because everyone should be able to retire with dignity and receive the benefits they earned through a lifetime of public service.”

    “The American Federation of School Administrators (AFSA) fully endorses the Social Security Fairness Act because repealing the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and Government Pension Offset (GPO) is essential to restoring fairness for educators and other public employees. For decades, these dedicated workers have been unfairly penalized in retirement. It’s time to eliminate these unjust penalties and restore the retirement security of those who have devoted their careers to serving the public and their communities,” said Len Pugliese, President, American Federation of School Administrators. “The bipartisan support for this legislation shows widespread recognition that public servants have been disproportionately harmed by these provisions. Representatives Spanberger and Graves deserve high praise for their leadership in overturning decades of harmful policy.”

    “We are witnessing a historic moment as the Social Security Fairness Act (H.R. 82) secures enough signatures on a discharge petition allowing Congress to vote on this issue, which has been debated for more than forty years. As a police officer with 24 years of service, I have seen firsthand how the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and Government Pension Offset (GPO) has penalized the retirement security of those dedicated to public service,” said Brian R. Marvel, President, Peace Officers Research Association of California. “These provisions have unjustly slashed benefits of peace officers and public employees they’ve earned simply because they receive a government pension. This landmark achievement brings us closer than ever to restoring fairness and financial stability for our nation’s heroes. I am deeply grateful to Representatives Graves and Spanberger, all those who cosponsored and signed this discharge petition, and our coalition advocates who have fought tirelessly to right this long-standing wrong.”

    “As President of the California Retired Teachers Association (CalRTA), I’m thrilled to announce that the discharge petition for H.R. 82 has reached the 218 signatures needed, marking a significant step in our fight to repeal the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and Government Pension Offset (GPO). I want to extend my deepest gratitude to Congressman Graves, Congresswoman Spanberger, and all California Congress members who supported HR 82. Some missed the chance to sign today before the petition was locked, but their commitment remains unwavering,” Suzie Dixon, President, California Retired Teachers Association. “This victory is a testament to the relentless efforts of numerous organizations working together non-partisanly. Together, we contacted officials and stood firm in our cause. I am incredibly proud to work such a dedicated group of advocates who have demonstrated the power of unified action in repealing these unjust penalties. THE TIME IS NOW.”

    BACKGROUND

    Graves and Spanberger reintroduced the Social Security Fairness Act in January 2023 at the start of the 118th Congress. In November 2023, Spanberger and Graves urged the U.S. House Ways and Means Committee to hold a hearing on reforms to the WEP and GPO — and a hearing was held later that month in St. George, Louisiana. In March 2024, the lawmakers urged the Committee to take the next step to eliminate the WEP and GPO by holding a markup on their bipartisan Social Security Fairness Act. Graves and Spanberger have consistently pushed for a vote on the bill.

    Currently, the WEP reduces the earned Social Security benefits of an individual who also receives a public pension from a job not covered by Social Security. For example, educators who do not earn Social Security in public schools but who work part-time or during the summer in jobs covered by Social Security have reduced benefits, even though they pay into the system just like others. Likewise, the GPO affects the spousal benefits of people who work as federal, state, or local government employees — including police officers, firefighters, and educators — if the job is not covered by Social Security. The GPO reduces by two-thirds the benefit received by surviving spouses who also collect a government pension.

    The WEP currently impacts approximately 2 million Social Security beneficiaries, and the GPO impacts nearly 800,000 retirees.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: 09/23/2024, 18-09 (Moscow time) the values of the upper limit of the price corridor and the range of market risk assessment of the ABIO security (iARTGEN ao) were changed.

    MIL OSI Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Moscow Exchange – Moscow Exchange –

    09/23/2024

    18:09

    In accordance with the Methodology for determining the risk parameters of the stock market and deposit market of Moscow Exchange PJSC by NCO NCC (JSC), on September 23, 2024, 18:09 (Moscow time), the values of the upper limit of the price corridor (up to 118.26) and the range of market risk assessment (up to 137,889 rubles, equivalent to a rate of 75.0%) of the ABIO security (iARTGEN ao) were changed.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    https://www.moex.com/n73343

    EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and or sentence structure not be perfect.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Coldbrook — RCMP investigates fatal crash in Coldbrook

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Kings District RCMP is investigating a fatal crash that occurred in Coldbrook.

    On September 22, at approximately 2:15 p.m., Kings District RCMP, fire services, and EHS responded to a report of a single-vehicle crash on Highway 101 near Exit 14. Officers learned that a Volkswagen GTI was travelling west and veered off the road on the north side of the highway.

    The driver, a 39-year-old Dartmouth man, reported minor injuries. The passenger, a 34-year-old woman from Dartmouth, was ejected from the vehicle and transported to hospital, where she was pronounced deceased.

    An RCMP collision reconstructionist attended the scene and the investigation is ongoing.

    Hwy. 101 was closed in both directions between exits 13 and 14 for several hours, but has since reopened.

    Our thoughts are with the victim’s loved ones at this difficult time.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: Three Federal Treasury deposit auctions will take place on 09/24/2024

    MIL OSI Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Moscow Exchange – Moscow Exchange –

    Application selection parameters
    Date of the selection of applications 09.24.2024
    Unique identifier of the application selection 22024484
    Deposit currency rubles
    Type of funds funds of the single treasury account
    Maximum amount of funds placed in bank deposits, million monetary units 289,000
    Placement period, in days 2
    Date of deposit 09.24.2024
    Refund date 09.26.2024
    Interest rate for placement of funds (fixed or floating) FIXED
    Minimum fixed interest rate for placement of funds, % per annum 18.14
    Basic floating interest rate for placement of funds –
    Minimum spread, % per annum –
    Terms of conclusion of a bank deposit agreement (fixed-term, replenishable or special) Urgent
    Minimum amount of funds placed for one application, million monetary units 1,000
    Maximum number of applications from one credit institution, pcs. 5
    Application selection form (open or closed) Open
    Application selection schedule (Moscow time)
    Venue for the selection of applications PAO Moscow Exchange
    Applications accepted: from 09:30 to 09:40
    Preliminary applications: from 09:30 to 09:35
    Applications in competition mode: from 09:35 to 09:40
    Formation of a consolidated register of applications: from 09:40 to 09:50
    Setting a cut-off percentage rate and/or recognizing the selection of applications as unsuccessful: from 09:40 to 10:00
    Submission of an offer to credit institutions to conclude a bank deposit agreement: from 10:00 to 11:00
    Receiving acceptance of an offer to conclude a bank deposit agreement from credit institutions: from 10:00 to 11:00
    Deposit transfer time In accordance with the requirements of paragraph 63 and paragraph 64 of the Order of the Federal Treasury dated 04/27/2023 No. 10n
    Application selection parameters
    Date of the selection of applications 09.24.2024
    Unique identifier of the application selection 22024478
    Deposit currency rubles
    Type of funds funds of the single treasury account
    Maximum amount of funds placed in bank deposits, million monetary units 20,000
    Placement period, in days 182
    Date of deposit 09.24.2024
    Refund date 03/25/2025
    Interest rate for placement of funds (fixed or floating) FLOATING
    Minimum fixed interest rate for placement of funds, % per annum –
    Basic floating interest rate for placement of funds RUONmDS
    Minimum spread, % per annum 0.00
    Terms of conclusion of a bank deposit agreement (fixed-term, replenishable or special) Urgent
    Minimum amount of funds placed for one application, million monetary units 1,000
    Maximum number of applications from one credit institution, pcs. 5
    Application selection form (open or closed) Open
    Application selection schedule (Moscow time)
    Venue for the selection of applications PAO Moscow Exchange
    Applications accepted: from 12:30 to 12:40
    Preliminary applications: from 12:30 to 12:35
    Applications in competition mode: from 12:35 to 12:40
    Formation of a consolidated register of applications: from 12:40 to 12:50
    Setting a cut-off percentage rate and/or recognizing the selection of applications as unsuccessful: from 12:40 to 13:00
    Submission of an offer to credit institutions to conclude a bank deposit agreement: from 13:00 to 14:00
    Receiving acceptance of an offer to conclude a bank deposit agreement from credit institutions: from 13:00 to 14:00
    Deposit transfer time In accordance with the requirements of paragraph 63 and paragraph 64 of the Order of the Federal Treasury dated 04/27/2023 No. 10n

    RUONmDS = RUONIA – DS, where

    RUONIA – the value of the indicative weighted rate of overnight ruble loans (deposits) RUONIA, expressed in hundredths of a percent, published on the official website of the Bank of Russia on the Internet on the day preceding the day for which interest is accrued. In the absence of a publication of the RUONIA rate value on the day preceding the day for which interest is accrued, the last of the published RUONIA rate values is taken into account.

    DS – discount – a value expressed in hundredths of a percent and rounded (according to the rules of mathematical rounding) to two decimal places, calculated by multiplying the value of the Key Rate of the Bank of Russia by the value of the required reserve ratio for other liabilities of credit institutions for banks with a universal license, non-bank credit institutions (except for long-term ones) in the currency of the Russian Federation, valid on the date for which interest is accrued, and published on the official website of the Bank of Russia on the Internet.

    Application selection parameters
    Date of the selection of applications 09.24.2024
    Unique identifier of the application selection 22024479
    Deposit currency rubles
    Type of funds funds of the single treasury account
    Maximum amount of funds placed in bank deposits, million monetary units 100,000
    Placement period, in days 35
    Date of deposit 09/25/2024
    Refund date 10/30/2024
    Interest rate for placement of funds (fixed or floating) FLOATING
    Minimum fixed interest rate for placement of funds, % per annum –
    Basic floating interest rate for placement of funds RUONmDS
    Minimum spread, % per annum 0.00
    Terms of conclusion of a bank deposit agreement (fixed-term, replenishable or special) Urgent
    Minimum amount of funds placed for one application, million monetary units 1,000
    Maximum number of applications from one credit institution, pcs. 5
    Application selection form (open or closed) Open
    Application selection schedule (Moscow time)
    Venue for the selection of applications PAO Moscow Exchange
    Applications accepted: from 15:30 to 15:40
    Preliminary applications: from 15:30 to 15:35
    Applications in competition mode: from 15:35 to 15:40
    Formation of a consolidated register of applications: from 15:40 to 15:50
    Setting a cut-off percentage rate and/or recognizing the selection of applications as unsuccessful: from 15:40 to 16:00
    Submission of an offer to credit institutions to conclude a bank deposit agreement: from 16:00 to 17:00
    Receiving acceptance of an offer to conclude a bank deposit agreement from credit institutions: from 16:00 to 17:00
    Deposit transfer time In accordance with the requirements of paragraph 63 and paragraph 64 of the Order of the Federal Treasury dated 04/27/2023 No. 10n

    RUONmDS = RUONIA – DS, where

    RUONIA – the value of the indicative weighted rate of overnight ruble loans (deposits) RUONIA, expressed in hundredths of a percent, published on the official website of the Bank of Russia on the Internet on the day preceding the day for which interest is accrued. In the absence of a publication of the RUONIA rate value on the day preceding the day for which interest is accrued, the last of the published RUONIA rate values is taken into account.

    DS – discount – a value expressed in hundredths of a percent and rounded (according to the rules of mathematical rounding) to two decimal places, calculated by multiplying the value of the Key Rate of the Bank of Russia by the value of the required reserve ratio for other liabilities of credit institutions for banks with a universal license, non-bank credit institutions (except for long-term ones) in the currency of the Russian Federation, valid on the date for which interest is accrued, and published on the official website of the Bank of Russia on the Internet.

    Contact information for media 7 (495) 363-3232PR@moex.com

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    https://www.moex.com/n73339

    EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and or sentence structure not be perfect.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: DoD leaders discuss future of Air Force nuclear deterrent systems

    Source: United States Strategic Command

    NATIONAL HARBOR, Md. (AFNS)  –  

    Under Secretary of the Air Force Melissa Dalton and other Department of Defense leaders hosted a panel discussion on modernizing the Air Force’s nuclear deterrent systems during the Air and Space Forces Association’s Air, Space and Cyber Conference on Sept. 18. 

    Dalton discussed the Air Force’s replacement program for its Minuteman III land-based intercontinental ballistic missile system, the LGM-35A Sentinel ICBM System, describing the complex upgrade from Minuteman III to Sentinel as essential. 

    “The United States today is fielding the most powerful military the world has ever seen, but our national defense is underpinned by one crucial thing: our nuclear deterrent,” Dalton said.  

    Bussiere and Cotton expounded on the concept of the U.S. nuclear triad, describing the triad’s role as the most effective and proven way to achieve successful strategic deterrence across the globe. 

    “Since Oct. 27, 1962, there’s been ICBMs on alert,” Bussiere said. “For 54 years, the Minuteman III weapon system has been standing the watch. Today … our Airmen — operators, maintainers and defenders — are making sure our way of life is secure.” 

    Panelists also spoke about the unique challenge of modernizing the nuclear Triad. 

    “We have an obligation to the nation to maintain full operational capability while we transition from legacy to new,” Bussiere said. “That’s going to be a very difficult, complex and complicated task, but we have no other option. We have to do it.” 

    As the DAF continues to modernize the deterrent fleet, Dalton continuously reinforced that in an era of Great Power Competition, successful nuclear deterrence requires a holistic approach.  

    “We tend to focus on the missile or the bomber when we talk about modernization,” Dalton said. “It’s incredibly important that we get that right. But arguably, just as important are the other elements of the equation that enable that weapon system … and it really comes down to three things: people, infrastructure and partnerships.” 

    Adding to the discussion, Cotton addressed the importance of industry in triad modernization. 

    “To my industry partners, you have to produce so I can present,” he said. “My job is to present forces to the president of the United States. You have to produce.” 

    Cotton also discussed how the nuclear triad contributes to stability around the globe. 

    “Our allies and partners are counting on us more than ever, and [they rely on] the assurance and deterrence we do daily,” Cotton said. Strategic deterrence “is a national imperative. It’s national policy and the foundation of what we hold dear. The framework of that is nuclear deterrence.” 

    The panel also mentioned the Air Force’s B-21 Raider program, a dual-capable penetrating strike stealth bomber currently in testing that will be capable of delivering both conventional and nuclear munitions, supporting the bomber-based component of the U.S. nuclear triad. 

    Throughout the event, panelists referred to the integral roles Air Force Airmen and Space Force Guardians currently play in nuclear deterrence and the support they will continue to provide as future systems come online. 

    “We have a commitment to the American people and to our nation’s defense to provide a nuclear deterrent that will underpin everything,” Dalton said. “We have a commitment to our allies and the extended deterrence commitments that we’ve held for the past 70 years, and we have a commitment to our Airmen and Guardians … We have once in a generation opportunity to get this right, and we cannot fail.” 

    The Space Force’s role in nuclear deterrence was also discussed. 

    “Our Space Force operates our satellite constellations that are absolutely crucial to our nuclear posture,” Dalton explained. “Our Guardians are standing watch, 24/7, 365, to provide indications and warnings for potential launches. They may well be our first alert of an adversarial launch.” 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: PV/BV 24-4 concludes at Minot AFB

    Source: United States Strategic Command

    MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, N.D.  –  

    Airmen assigned to the 2nd and 5th Bomb Wings participated in Prairie Vigilance/Bayou Vigilance 24-4, a training operation designed to test the wings’ readiness to conduct deterrence and combat operations here, Sept. 4-8.

    “The purpose of ‘Prairie Vigilance’ is inherent in the name itself: vigilance,” said Col. Jesse Lamarand, 5th Bomb Wing commander. “It’s how the 5th Bomb Wing ensures the safety, security and reliability of not just the weapons on base, but the human weapons systems that are involved in maintaining, sustaining and executing our president’s nuclear options.”

    These training operations enable crews to maintain a high state of readiness and proficiency, and validate the always-ready, global strike capability. The VIGILANCE series also enhances the safety, security, and reliability of the bomber leg of the U.S. nuclear triad.

    “Col. Lamarand says all the time that even though this is for practice, people are watching,” said Chief Master Sgt. Wayne Sharp, 5th Bomb Wing command chief. “These training operations let our adversaries and allies know that we operate in safe and reliable conditions, and we’re ready to go at any given time.”

    PV/BV 24-4 once again demonstrated Air Force Global Strike Command’s airpower and capabilities, ensuring Team Minot and Team Barksdale Airmen are prepared and ready to execute such a vital mission. Hundreds of Airmen including aircraft maintainers, security forces, and aircrews from two wings were tested and have shown their superior response efforts in support of deterring and, if necessary, responding to strategic attacks against the United States and its allies and partners.

    PV/BV operations are regularly planned and are not scheduled or conducted in response to any specific geopolitical conditions or situations. These training missions are routine and occur multiple times per year.

    This training operation not only demonstrates the wings’ ability to stand alert if needed to deter or respond to an attack, but it demonstrates their ability to project lethal combat power across the globe.

    This was the third iteration of PV/BV for 2024.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Ohio Man Sentenced to Prison on Felony and Misdemeanor Charges for Actions During January 6 Capitol Breach

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

                WASHINGTON – An Ohio man was sentenced to prison after he was previously found guilty of felony and misdemeanor charges related to his conduct during the Jan. 6, 2021, breach of the U.S. Capitol. His actions and the actions of others disrupted a joint session of the U.S. Congress convened to ascertain and count the electoral votes related to the 2020 presidential election.

                William Dunfee, 59, of Frazeysburg, Ohio, was sentenced on Sept. 19, 2024, to 30 months in prison, 36 months of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $10,000 fine and $2,000 in restitution by U.S. District Judge Reggie B. Walton. Judge Walton sentenced Dunfee on one felony offense of civil disorder and a misdemeanor offense of entering and remaining in a restricted building or grounds.

                Dunfee was convicted of two felony offenses of obstruction of an official proceeding or aiding and abetting and civil disorder and the misdemeanor offense of entering and remaining in a restricted building or grounds following a bench trial before Judge Walton on Jan. 22, 2024.

                According to court documents, Dunfee, a pastor of the New Beginnings Ministry Warsaw, in Warsaw, Ohio, posted a video to social media on Dec. 27, 2020, via the Ministry’s Facebook page, telling his congregation that “The Government, the tyrants, the socialists, the Marxists, the progressives, the RINOs, they fear you. And they should. Our problem is we haven’t given them reason to fear us.” Later he stated, “As I said earlier in another previous sermon is this, they used to tell us, you know what, you settle your differences at the ballot. How did that work out for us? It’s not over.” He added, “January 4th through 6th … Are you ready?”

                On Jan. 6, 2021, Dunfee illegally entered the Capitol grounds and, using a bull horn, he repeatedly exhorted the crowd. In a video filmed at the Capitol, Dunfee tells the mob: “This election has been stolen right out from underneath of our noses and it is time for the American people to rise up. Rise up. Rise up. Today is the day in which it is that these elected officials realize that we are no longer playing games. That we are not sheeple that are just going to be corralled according to their whims and their wills.” Later in the video, Dunfee stated, “We will stand up for our country. We are standing up for our freedoms. We are standing up for our president. And today is the day these elected officials, these senators and these congressmen, understand that we are not going to allow this to continue any longer.”

                At 1:35 p.m., Dunfee announced: “Mister police officers, we want you to understand something. We want you to understand something. We want Donald Trump and if Donald Trump is not coming, we are taking our house. We are taking our house.”

                Minutes later, at 1:44 p.m., Dunfee pushed a metal barricade against officers with the U.S. Capitol Police, who were attempting to hold the line. He pushed against the barricade a second time at approximately 1:58 p.m. He moved to the front of a crowd of rioters at the East Front entrance to the Capitol. Dunfee walked away from the East Front doors as others moved into the building, but he remained in the area. As rioters exited the building, one stated, “We did it. We shut ‘em all down. We did our job.” Dunfee responded, “Hallelujah,” and told the crowd, “Mission accomplished.”

                Surveillance cameras captured Dunfee’s actions that day. Videos and images show Dunfee physically resisting U.S. Capitol Police by pushing against a metal barricade and subsequently entering the restricted areas of the U.S. Capitol grounds. This case was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia and the Department of Justice National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section. Valuable assistance was provided by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Ohio.

                This case was investigated by the FBI’s Cincinnati Field Office. Valuable assistance was provided by the FBI’s Washington Field Office, the U.S. Capitol Police, and the Metropolitan Police Department.

                In the 44 months since Jan. 6, 2021, more than 1,504 individuals have been charged in nearly all 50 states for crimes related to the breach of the U.S. Capitol, including more than 560 individuals charged with assaulting or impeding law enforcement, a felony. The investigation remains ongoing.

                Anyone with tips can call 1-800-CALL-FBI (800-225-5324) or visit tips.fbi.gov.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Texas “Proud Boy” Found Guilty of Felony and Misdemeanor Charges for Action During January 6 Capitol Breach

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

             WASHINGTON – A Texas man and member of the Proud Boys was found guilty of felony and misdemeanor charges on September 18, 2024, related to his conduct during the January 6, 2021, breach of the U.S. Capitol. His actions and the actions of others disrupted a joint session of the U.S. Congress convened to ascertain and count the electoral votes related to the 2020 presidential election.

             Jeffrey David Reed, 49, of Rosanky, Texas, was found guilty of a felony offense of civil disorder and misdemeanor offenses of entering or remaining in a restricted building or grounds, disorderly or disruptive conduct in a restricted building or grounds, disorderly conduct in a Capitol building, and parading, demonstrating, or picketing in a Capitol building.

             Reed was convicted by U.S. District Chief Judge James E. Boasberg following a bench trial in District Court for the District of Columbia. Chief Judge Boasberg will sentence Reed on December 20, 2024.

             According to evidence presented during the trial, Reed, a member of the Proud Boys’ Hudson Valley chapter in New York, participated in the January 6, 2021, events in Washington, D.C., as part of the group’s organized efforts. Specifically, Reed was part of the group who broke through metal bike rack barriers, and snow fencing with “Area Closed” signs, to push through a line of officers at the first breach of the restricted perimeter near the Peace Circle.

             This forced police officers, overrun by the numbers of the crowd, to run back up the Pennsylvania Walkway toward the Capitol and regroup, forming a second police line between rioters and the Capitol. As the crowd advanced, Reed ran up to the front of the mob and reached the next set of barricades, consisting of metal bike racks. Capitol Police had erected these barriers to protect the Capitol and keep the crowd at bay. Reed grabbed one of the bike racks with both hands, lifted it, and moved it aside, clearing a path for thousands of rioters to push forward toward the Capitol building. The overwhelmed police officers, outnumbered by the advancing mob, were forced to retreat on the West Plaza.

             Reed continued onward toward the Capitol, confronting a third police line formed by officers behind a metal railing that was part of the construction for the Inaugural Stage. At this point, still at the front of the crowd, Reed was face to face with officers—yelling and pointing at them. Despite law enforcement’s efforts to hold the line for over an hour, they were ultimately overrun. The mob, emboldened by their numbers, surged forward once again, overpowering the police and advancing onto the Capitol’s West Plaza. During the crowd’s efforts to stop the crowd from gaining access to a critical access point—the Southwest staircase—Reed physically pulled another metal bike rack with both hands, using his body weight to try to yank the bike rack away from a police officer. This struggle ended in an officer falling to the ground. The crowd, including Reed, stormed the Southwest staircase and the Inaugural Stage before breaching the Capitol building itself.

             At approximately 2:26 p.m., Reed entered the Capitol through the Senate Wing Door, stepping over broken glass and into the chaos. Once inside, he made his way to the Speaker’s Lobby, just outside the House Chamber. Reed exited the Capitol approximately 16 minutes later, through the East Rotunda Door, at around 2:49 p.m. Once exiting the Capitol, Reed remained on Capitol grounds in the restricted area on the East front—climbing on top of law enforcement vehicles and ripping up a “Police Lives Matter” flag on the East steps of the Capitol.

              This case is being prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia and the Department of Justice National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section. Valuable assistance was provided by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Texas.

             This case is being investigated by the FBI’s San Antonio and Washington Field Offices, as well as the New York Field Office. Valuable assistance was provided by the United States Capitol Police and the Metropolitan Police Department.

             In the 44 months since January 6, 2021, more than 1,504 individuals have been charged in nearly all 50 states for crimes related to the breach of the U.S. Capitol, including more than 560 individuals charged with assaulting or impeding law enforcement, a felony. The investigation remains ongoing.

             Anyone with tips can call 1-800-CALL-FBI (800-225-5324) or visit tips.fbi.gov.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Four Men Sentenced for Actions During January 6 Capitol Breach

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

              WASHINGTON – Four men from Kentucky, North Carolina, Texas, and Virginia were sentenced to various terms after they were convicted of multiple felony and misdemeanor charges related to their conduct during the Jan. 6, 2021, breach of the U.S. Capitol. Their actions and the actions of others disrupted a joint session of the U.S. Congress convened to ascertain and count the electoral votes related to the 2020 presidential election.

              Sentenced on Sept. 19, 2024, by U.S. District Judge Jia M. Cobb are Stephen Chase Randolph, 34, of Harrodsburg Kentucky; James Tate Grant, 31, of Cary, North Carolina; Jason Benjamin Blythe, 28, of Fort Worth, Texas; and Paul Russell Johnson, 38, of Lanexa, Virginia.

              Randolph was sentenced to 8 years in prison, 36 months of supervised release, and ordered to pay $2,000 in restitution.

              Grant was sentenced to 36 months in prison, 36 months of supervised release, and ordered to pay $2,000 in restitution.

              Blythe was sentenced to 30 months in prison, 36 months of supervised release, and ordered to pay $2,000 in restitution.

              Johnson was sentenced to five years of probation, conditions of which include, intermittent confinement on the weekends for the first year, followed by two years of home and ordered to pay a $25,000 fine and $2,000 in restitution. 

              A fifth defendant, Ryan Samsel, 40, of Bristol, Pennsylvania, will be sentenced on February 4, 2025

              All five defendants were convicted of civil disorder. Ryan Samsel and Steven Chase Randolph were found guilty of assaulting Officer C.E. with a deadly or dangerous weapon and inflicting bodily injury (a metal crowd control barrier). James Tate Grant, Paul Russell Johnson, and Benjamin Blythe were found guilty of assaulting Officer D.C. with a deadly or dangerous weapon (a metal crowd control barrier). Randolph was convicted of an additional felony charge of assaulting, resisting, or impeding Officer D.C. Samsel was convicted of additional felony charges of civil disorder, assaulting, resisting, or impeding certain officers; and assaulting, resisting, or impeding certain officers using a dangerous weapon (a wooden plank).

              According to evidence presented during the trial, the group participated in the first breach of the restricted Capitol grounds on Jan. 6, 2021, and led the initial attack on United States Capitol Police (USCP) officers. Their attack paved the way for thousands of rioters to storm the Capitol grounds.

              At approximately 12:40 p.m., the five men joined with other rioters at the Peace Circle, across from the Capitol grounds. Here, the sidewalk at the edge of the Capitol grounds across the street from the Peace Circle was blocked by linked bike-rack barricades. A second set of bike rack barricades, with signs that read “Area Closed By Order of the United States Capitol Police Board” and reinforced with snow fencing and zip ties, barred the way up the Pennsylvania Walkway, a footpath that runs from the Capitol to the sidewalk across the street from the Peace Circle.

              At about 12:50 p.m., Samsel approached the first barricade, opened a section, entered the restricted grounds, and approached the Capitol via the Pennsylvania Walkway. This marked the first breach of the restricted perimeter. Grant followed closely behind Samsel and waived the crowd forward onto the restricted grounds. Defendants Johnson, Blythe, Randolph, and others in the crowd followed Grant and Samsel past the first barricade and walked toward the officers standing behind the second barricade. At around that same time, Johnson shouted a series of exclamations, including “Let’s go!” “We pay your bills!” and “You back the f— off!” over his megaphone.

              Samsel and Grant then began to forcibly push and pull on the second barricade while officers held it in place. Samsel stopped pushing long enough to remove his denim jacket, hand it to someone off-camera, and turn his red “Make America Great Again” hat around backward. Johnson handed off his megaphone and backpack to someone behind him in the crowd. Randolph began to forcibly push and pull on the fence directly across from USCP officers. Johnson, Grant and Samsel joined Randolph in lifting the linked metal bike rack barricade off the ground. Blythe moved forward and grabbed the barricade with the other four defendants, and the five drove the metal bike rack barricade into a line of USCP officers.

              As they drove the metal bike rack barricade at the police line, one officer was struck in the face. The force of the strike threw the officer backward and caused the officer to slam their head twice: first against a metal handrail, then against the stairs. The officer lost consciousness and suffered a concussion. Another officer was driven several feet backward by the metal bike rack barricade until the back of their body ran into the stairwell and handrail behind them.

              After the five defendants pushed the metal bike rack barricade into the USCP officers, Randolph jumped over the barricade and grabbed an officer. By this point, the barricades were down, and the officers outmanned. The defendants and the rest of the rioters quickly overwhelmed the police line, and the USCP officers retreated backward toward the Capitol building. The rioters, including the five defendants, then walked to the Capitol building.

    Each of the five men continued to fuel the riot on January 6th. Samsel assaulted other officers, Johnson incited the crowd over a megaphone, and Grant entered the Capitol building, while Blythe and Randolph climbed to the Upper West Terrace. The five remained at the Capitol for hours. Samsel’s additional assaultive and destructive conduct included grabbing the riot shield of a law enforcement officer while rioters were attempting to overtake police, tearing through the tarp in the scaffolding on the Capitol grounds, waving a flag in the officers’ faces, and taking a 2×4 plank of wood from the scaffolding and throwing it at a group of Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) officers as they struggled to maintain a police line.

              Defendant Grant climbed through one of the broken windows next to the Senate Wing door and into the Capitol building at approximately 2:50 p.m. He then stormed the halls with other rioters and was recorded with others inside Senator Merkley’s office. Blythe stayed on the Capitol grounds for hours. He climbed the media tower at the steps of the Capitol and joined others in resisting officers who were attempting to clear rioters.

              Johnson moved with rioters to the West Plaza. Using his megaphone, Johnson loudly and continuously shouted commands to the crowd, alerted them to what he perceived to be happening inside the building, and encouraged them to take action to stop the Congressional proceedings from taking place. Randolph also remained on Capitol grounds for hours, eventually climbing onto the Upper West Terrace, where he observed law enforcement engaged in a struggle with rioters inside and outside the inaugural archway, also known as the Tunnel.

              This case was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia and the Department of Justice National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section. Valuable assistance was provided by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, Eastern District of North Carolina, Eastern District of Virginia, Eastern District of Kentucky, and the Northern District of Texas.

              This case was investigated by the FBI field offices in Philadelphia, Charlotte, Norfolk, Louisville, Dallas, and Washington, D.C. Valuable assistance was provided by the United States Capitol Police and the Metropolitan Police Department. Samsel was identified as BOLO #51, Grant #50, Johnson #49, Randolph #168, and Blythe #52 on the FBI’s seeking information photos.

              In the 44 months since Jan. 6, 2021, more than 1,504 individuals have been charged in nearly all 50 states for crimes related to the breach of the U.S. Capitol, including more than 560 individuals charged with assaulting or impeding law enforcement, a felony. The investigation remains ongoing.

              Anyone with tips can call 1-800-CALL-FBI (800-225-5324) or visit tips.fbi.gov.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former Susanville Nurse Practitioner Charged in Superseding Indictment with Additional Counts of Sexual Crimes Against Children

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime News

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. — A federal grand jury returned a superseding indictment today against Bradley Earl Reger, 68, of Susanville, charging him with seven additional violations of transportation of a minor with intent to engage in criminal sexual activity, travel with intent to engage in illicit sexual conduct, and coercion and enticement, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.

    According to court documents, Reger sexually abused more than a dozen victims under the guise of conducting purported medical examinations at his nursing clinic in Susanville, and in hotel rooms and camp sites all over the world. Reger was a licensed nurse practitioner with the California Board of Registered Nursing from 2003 until Oct. 18, 2023, when the Board of Registered Nursing revoked his license.

    This case is the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Homeland Security Investigations, and the California Department of Consumer Affairs. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Christina McCall and Roger Yang are prosecuting the case.

    If convicted, Reger faces a maximum statutory penalty of life in prison for the most serious charged count and a $250,000 fine per count, plus up to a lifetime of supervised release. Any sentence, however, would be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables. The charges are only allegations; the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

    The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Sacramento Division and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) are seeking to identify potential victims of Bradley Reger. If you believe that you and/or your minor dependent(s) were victimized by Reger at any time, in the United States or abroad, or have information relevant to this investigation, please complete the online form available at: www.fbi.gov/RegerVictims. Additionally, if you know of someone else who may have been victimized by Bradley Reger, please encourage them to complete the form.

    This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute those who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. Click on the “resources” tab for information about internet-safety education.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Last Two Defendants in the Violent Kennedy Street Crew Case Plead Guilty to Narcotics and Firearms Counts

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

    The KDY Crew Operated Open-Air Drug Markets in Northwest Washington D.C.

               WASHINGTON – Khali Ahmed Brown, 23, Keion Michael Brown, 21, members of the violent Kennedy Street Crew (KDY), pleaded guilty today to narcotics and firearms charges for their roles in a massive drug trafficking organization that operated open-air markets in Northwest Washington D.C. 

               Khali Brown, aka “Migo Lee,” of Washington D.C., who many view as the face of KDY, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute 100 kilograms or more of marijuana, fentanyl, and oxycodone. He also pleaded guilty to charges of possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense and assault with a dangerous weapon for his role in a November 18, 2022, shooting just outside Jackson-Reed High School.

               His brother, Keion Michael Brown, of Washington D.C., pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute 100 kilograms or more of marijuana and oxycodone and a charge of possessing a firearm during a drug trafficking offense. U.S. District Judge Beryl A. Howell scheduled sentencing on December 12, 2024, for both men. 

               The sentences were announced by U.S. Attorney Matthew M. Graves, FBI Acting Special Agent in Charge David Geist of the Washington Field Office Criminal and Cyber Division, DEA Special Agent in Charge Jarod Forget of the Washington Division, ATF Special Agent in Charge James VanVliet of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives – Washington Division, and Special Agent in Charge Kareem Carter, of the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Washington D.C. Field Office.

                “The prosecution targeted leaders and key members of the KDY street crew–one of the largest, oldest, and most violent street crews in our city,” said U.S. Attorney Graves. “With these guilty pleas, every defendant charged in connection with this investigation has now pled guilty to charges that will ensure that they will be removed from, and no longer driving violence in, our community.”

                “DEA’s top operational priority is combatting the current fentanyl crisis and the drug-related violence that is devastating the very foundation of our community and family structures,” said Jarod Forget, Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Washington Division.  Today’s guilty plea clearly shows that Mr. Brown, aka “Migo Lee,” and his associations with violent criminal drug trafficking networks like the Kennedy Street Crew showed little respect for the wellbeing of the community.  We are taking a strong stance and implementing strict measures to protect every city neighborhood.”

               According to court documents, KDY members operated open-air drug markets on an 11-block stretch of Kennedy Street in Northwest Washington, D.C., as well as surrounding streets. Like many drug trafficking organizations (DTOs), KDY armed itself with fire power to facilitate its drug trade and defend its territory from rival crews. During the charged conspiracy, from June 2019 to June 2023, on KDY territory there were five homicides, resulting in the deaths of seven and the wounding of six additional individuals, one assault with intent to kill with three wounded, and 19 assaults with a deadly weapon.

               Khali Brown was among the charged defendants who played a key role in smuggling bulk quantities of marijuana from the West Coast to the DMV area, which allowed the crew to sell at significant profits and thereby fuel its operations.

               Both defendants maintained stash houses of KDY’s controlled substances and fire power.  By way of illustration, on January 26, 2023, law enforcement conducted an interdiction at Baltimore-Washington International Airport (BWI) in anticipation of several KDY members, including Khali Brown, smuggling marijuana back to the Washington, D.C. Metropolitan Area through BWI via an overnight flight from LAX. During the interdiction, law enforcement seized five of the checked bags containing 39.2 kilograms of marijuana, but Khali Brown and his co-defendant Herman Signou evaded law enforcement with some of their luggage and  traveled to a stash house at the 1700 block of D Street NE.

               Hours later, law enforcement executed a search warrant at the residence, where officers found Khali Brown, Keion Brown, and co-defendants Tristan Ware, Jovan Williams, and Herman Signou, among other KDY associates. Inside, law enforcement seized ten firearms (including two machine guns), assorted ammunition, 21 kilograms of marijuana, 39.5 grams of fentanyl-laced pills, and oxycodone pills in suitcases consistent with those taken from the airport during the BWI interdiction. Among the firearms recovered was the Glock 17 9mm firearm that Khali Brown and his co-conspirators had used in the November 18, 2022, shooting outside Jackson-Reed High School.

               When Khali Brown and two co-defendants were arrested on June 26, 2023, at yet another stash house in the 1300 block of 5th Street NW, inside the residence were approximately 3.5 kilograms of marijuana, $2,710 in cash and five machine guns, and one firearm. 

              Keion Brown was a wanted fugitive when, on November 17, 2023, officers tracked him and his associates, including Jovan Williams, to a laundry room on the 4700 block of Benning Road NE. Law enforcement arrested Keion Brown, Jovan Williams, and an associate and found four firearms concealed within the laundry room, including Keion Brown’s machine gun.

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

               It was investigated by the Metropolitan Police Department, the DEA’s Washington Division, ATF’s Washington Field Division, with assistance from FBI’s Washington Field Office, and the IRS-Criminal Investigation Washington, D.C. Office.

               It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Matthew W. Kinskey and Sitara Witanachchi, of the of the Violence Reduction and Trafficking Offenses Section of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia. Valuable assistance was provided by former Special Assistant United States Attorney Brian Lynch.

    DEFENDANTS

    NAME

    AGE

    CHARGES
    Kenneth Ademola Olugbenga 27 Pleaded Guilty 9/15/2024, to Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with the Intent to Distribute 500 Grams or more of Cocaine Base, and a Detectable Amount of Marijuana; and Possessing a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Offense.
    Khali Ahmed Brown, aka “Migo Lee” 23 Pleaded Guilty 9/20/2024, to Conspiracy to Distribute 100 Kilograms or More of Marijuana, Fentanyl, and Oxycodone; Possessing a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Offense; Assault with a Dangerous Weapon.
    Miasiah Jamal Brown, aka “Michael Jamal Crawford” 21 Sentenced 8/16/2024, to 60 Months for Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Offense.
    Keion Michael Brown 21 Pleaded Guilty 9/20/2024, to Conspiracy to Distribute Marijuana and Cocaine Base; Possessing a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Offense.
    Tristan Miles Ware, aka “Greedy” 23 Pleaded Guilty 7/11/2024 to Conspiracy to Distribute 100 Kilos of Marijuana and Possession of a Firearm During a Drug Trafficking Offense.
    Jovan Williams, aka “Chewy” 19 Pleaded Guilty on 9/5/2024, to Conspiracy to Distribute 100 Kilos of Marijuana and Armed Carjacking.
    Herman Eric-Bibmin Signou, aka “Herman Signour” 23 Sentenced 3/22/2024, to 40 Months for Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with Intent to Distribute 100 Kilograms of More of Marijuana.
    Cameron Xavier Reid 26 Sentenced 5/31/2024, to Five Years for Conspiracy to Distribute 100 Kilograms of More of Marijuana.
    Aaron DeAndre Mercer, aka “Curby” 27 Sentenced 9/13/2024, to 120 Months for Conspiracy to Distribute 400 Grams or More of Fentanyl, Marijuana, and Cocaine Base.
    David Penn, aka “Turtle” 30 Pleaded Guilty 6/27/2024, to Conspiracy to Distribute 40 Grams of Fentanyl and Possessing a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Offense.
    Ronald Lynn Dorsey, aka “Ron G” and “HBGeezy” 29 Sentenced 9/13/2024, to 30 Months for Conspiracy to Commit Money Laundering.
    Antonio Reginald Bailey, aka “Boy Boy,” and “Fellow King” 22 Sentenced 2/8/2024, to 24 Months for Receiving a Firearm While Under Indictment.
    Anthony Trayon Bailey, aka “Fat Ant,” and “Bizzle” 27 Sentenced 4/26/2024, to 15 months for Conspiracy to Distribute 100 Kilograms or More of Marijuana, 400 Grams or More of Fentanyl, and a Mixture and Substance Containing a Detectable Amount of Cocaine Base.
    Angel Enrique Suncar, aka “Coqui” 29 Pleaded Guilty 6/12/2024, to Possessing a Firearm During a Drug Trafficking Offense.
    Warren Lawrence Fields, III, aka B-Dub 26 Sentenced 5/16/2024, to 90 Months for Possessing a Firearm During a Drug Trafficking Offense and for Conspiracy to Commit Money Laundering.
    Juwan Demetrius Clark, aka “Juan” and “Squirrel” 28 Pleaded Guilty 9/17/2024, to Conspiracy to Launder Monetary Instruments.
    Adebayo Adediji Green 30 Sentenced 8/16/2024, to 60 Months for Possessing a Firearm During a Drug Trafficking Offense.

    Defendant Cameron Reid is from Falmouth, VA. Green is from Hyattsville, MD. All remaining defendants are from Washington, D.C.

    23cr0202

     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: St. John’s — RCMP NL is looking to establish a Diversity Advisory Committee

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    The Commanding Officer of the RCMP in Newfoundland and Labrador is working to establish a diversity advisory committee. Assistant Commissioner Pat Cahill is seeking community-based volunteers to join him on the Commanding Officer’s Diversity Advisory Committee (CODAC). Promoting and ensuring equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) in the RCMP is important for both the employees and the communities we serve in and live in.

    Our collective work on the committee will be guided by the goals of promoting fairness, increasing understanding, reducing barriers, and driving meaningful change.

    The committee is being established to:

    • Provide a safe space for members of the committee to discuss barriers and the impacts of implicit bias and discrimination.
    • Engage and collaborate with external partners and subject matter experts who can assist in the achievement of these goals.
    • Promote and support effective communication between diverse communities and the RCMP.
    • Strengthen the understating of diverse groups and create stronger working relationships between the RCMP and our communities.
    • Help identify learning opportunities for all.

    If you have lived experience in diverse communities and would like to help drive meaningful change, please indicate your interest by Tuesday, October 8th in an email to BDiv_Community_Policing@rcmp-grc.gc.ca .

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Mount Pleasant — Mount Pleasant man arrested on child pornography charges

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    The Nova Scotia RCMP’s Provincial Internet Child Exploitation (ICE) Unit has arrested a Mount Pleasant man for child pornography offences.

    On September 11, ICE and RCMP Digital Forensic Services, assisted by Cumberland County District RCMP and the Cumberland Integrated Street Crime Enforcement Unit, executed a search warrant at a home in Mount Pleasant.

    Investigators were directed to the residence after an electronic service provider notified law enforcement that child pornography was being shared using their service.

    As a result of the search and subsequent investigation, Winston Kechego, 31, has been charged with two counts of Transmitting Child Pornography and three counts of Possessing Child Pornography.

    Kechego was released on conditions and is scheduled to appear in Amherst Provincial Court on November 4.

    In Nova Scotia, it is mandatory for citizens to report suspected child pornography. This means that anyone who encounters child pornography material or recordings must report it to police. Failure to report could result in penalties similar to failure to report child abuse under the Child and Family Services Act. The RCMP encourages citizens to be a voice for children who are victims of sexual exploitation by reporting suspected offences to their local police or by using Canada’s national tip line: www.cybertip.ca.

    File #: 2023-1855956

    Note: The Cumberland Integrated Street Crime Enforcement Unit includes members of the Cumberland County District RCMP and the Amherst Police Department.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: Anderson relieves Ishee as Commander, U.S. Sixth Fleet

    Source: United States Navy

    Adm. Stuart Munsch, Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa (NAVEUR-NAVAF) and Commander, Allied Joint Forces Command Naples, presided over the ceremony. Adm. Munsch outlined Vice Adm. Ishee’s extensive accomplishments as 6th Fleet commander.

    “You led thousands of Sailors from 15 different countries, hundreds of ships, submarines and aircraft effectively, and advanced our warfighting advantage at every opportunity,” Munsch said. “You, together with your incredible teams, have built combat power, deepened our relationships with allies and partners, improved our posture, sharpened our readiness to fight and pressed the envelope in employing new technologies.”

    As 6th Fleet Commander, Ishee presided over a wide array of naval and joint operations across two continents.  The fleet has effectively deployed ready forces in the Black Sea and elsewhere postured for any contingency, and has remained the preferred partner for maritime forces operating in Europe and Africa. Naval assets assigned to the 6th Fleet have supported partners and allies during challenging humanitarian crises and natural disasters, including critical support provided to Turkish earthquake victims in 2023.

    Additionally, Ishee stood up Joint Task Force 406. JTF 406 is the U.S. European Command’s (EUCOM) maritime crisis response and contingency command. JTF 406 maintains situational awareness, plans, coordinates, and as directed, executes the employment of forces to maintain mission readiness, build working relationships with our Allies and partners, protect U.S. citizens and U.S. interests, and deter hostile forces in the European theater.

    “The U.S. 6th Fleet proudly stands as an independent and adept force, capable of projecting power across the maritime domain,” Ishee said. “I can say with complete confidence that the Fleet and STRIKFORNATO stand as lethal and professional as ever.”

    Anderson, former Director of Operations for U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, spoke of his appreciation for the team he will lead, while outlining his vision and goals for the command.

    “All eyes are on U.S. Sixth Fleet, and the challenges facing the region will test us on a daily basis,” Anderson said. “We will continue to rely on our alliances and partnerships to remain the most combat credible and capable maritime force in theater, and will meet every challenge with strength, resolve, and confidence to enhance security and stability across the region.”

    U.S. Sixth Fleet, headquartered in Naples, Italy, conducts a full spectrum of joint and naval operations, often in concert with Allies, in order to advance security and stability in Europe and Africa.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Readout of the Secretary-General’s meeting with H.E. Mr. Gustavo Petro Urrego, President of the Republic of Colombia [scroll down for Spanish]

    Source: United Nations secretary general

     
    The Secretary-General met with H.E. Mr. Gustavo Petro Urrego, President of the Republic of Colombia.  They discussed Colombia’s peace initiatives.  The Secretary-General reiterated his strong support for Colombia’s efforts to fully implement the 2016 Final Peace Agreement and its dialogue efforts to further consolidate peace.  He praised Colombia’s leadership on climate and environment, notably its hosting next month of the COP16 on Biodiversity.
     

    ***
     
    El Secretario General se reunió con el Excelentísimo Señor Gustavo Petro Urrego, Presidente de la República de Colombia.  Hablaron sobre las iniciativas de paz en el país.  El Secretario General reiteró su firme apoyo a los esfuerzos de Colombia para implementar plenamente el Acuerdo Final de Paz de 2016 y sus esfuerzos de diálogo para consolidar aún más la paz.  Elogió el liderazgo de Colombia en cuestiones de cambio climático y medio ambiente, en particular su organización el próximo mes de la COP16 sobre Biodiversidad.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Secretary-General’s remarks to High-Level Side Event: Ways to Include Women in the Future of Afghanistan [as delivered]

    Source: United Nations secretary general

    The women and girls of Afghanistan face a deep crisis of gender-based discrimination and oppression.

    The new law enacted last month formalized the systematic erasure of women and girls from public life.

    Afghan women and girls are largely confined to their homes, with no freedom of movement and almost no access to education or work.

    They are even banned from singing or raising their voices in public.

    The law is the latest in a series of edicts and decrees that strip Afghan women and girls of their rights and freedoms across the board.

    At the same time, Afghan women suffer high rates of gender-based violence, so-called honour killings, and rising maternal mortality.

    They have told the United Nations that they feel unsafe, isolated and powerless as they lose the ability to provide for their families or contribute to their communities.  

    Many Afghan women speak of losing hope and living like shadows, moving around silently in the darkness, and always fearing punishment.

    Dear friends,

    Extreme gender-based discrimination is not only a systematic abuse of women and girls and a violation of human rights conventions and laws.

    It is self-harm on a national scale.

    It completely undermines the de facto authorities’ stated objective of economic self-reliance.

    Educating girls is one of the fastest ways to kick-start economic development and improve the health, wellbeing and prosperity of communities and entire societies.

    Women’s participation and leadership has proven benefits for peace and security, social protection, environmental stability and more. 

    Afghanistan faces serious challenges in all these areas.

    Without educated women, without women in employment, including in leadership roles, and without recognizing the rights and freedoms of one-half of its population, Afghanistan will never take its rightful place on the global stage.
     
    Countries and organizations around the world, including the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, have called strongly for respect for the fundamental rights of Afghan girls and women.

    I join them in demanding that the de facto authorities remove all discriminatory restrictions against women and girls immediately, and reopen schools and universities to girls beyond grade six.

    Dear friends,

    The United Nations continues to engage with Afghan women and women’s groups, to preserve the space for them to operate, and to serve as a conduit for dialogue with the de facto authorities.

    Afghan women show remarkable courage in demanding and pursuing their rights, running businesses in difficult conditions, delivering humanitarian aid, and in online campaigns.

    The international community stands in solidarity with them.

    We will continue to amplify the voices of Afghan women and call for them to play a full role in the country’s life, both inside its borders and on the global stage.

    We will never allow gender-based discrimination to become normalized anywhere in the world.

    What is happening in Afghanistan can be compared with some of the most egregious systems of oppression in recent history.

    I thank the Permanent Missions of Ireland, Qatar, Indonesia and Switzerland and the Women’s Forum on Afghanistan for convening these important discussions on how women and girls can play a full role in Afghanistan’s future.

    Thank you.
     

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: Statement from President Joe  Biden on Record Declines in  Crime

    Source: The White House

    When Vice President Harris and I took office, our nation had just seen the highest increase in murders ever recorded under the previous Administration. Immediately, we got to work – passing the American Rescue Plan that led to the largest ever federal investment in public safety. Today, new data submitted to the FBI confirms again that Americans are safer than when we took office. In 2023, according to the data, our nation saw the largest ever one-year decrease in the homicide rate, which is now 16% below its level in 2020. Violent crime also declined again and is at a near 50-year low. In 2024, this progress is continuing, with notable decreases in crime.

    None of this happened by accident. Vice President Harris and I invested in public safety and took action to stop the illegal flow of guns into our communities. Our American Rescue Plan – which every Republican in Congress voted against – helped deliver over $15 billion in public safety funding that enabled over 1,000 state, city, and county governments to avoid cuts to police budgets, invest in community violence interventions, and take other essential steps to keep communities safe. I took more executive action on guns than any other President and signed the most significant gun violence legislation in nearly 30 years, which is keeping guns out of dangerous hands by expanding background checks and cracking down on gun traffickers. I established the first-ever White House Office of Gun Violence Prevention, which is overseen by Vice President Harris, and is making incredible progress in just its first year.

    We’re not stopping now. The only way to continue this progress is by investing in what works. That’s why I will continue to urge Congress to fund 100,000 additional police officers and a strong ATF, invest in community violence intervention programs, and make commonsense gun safety reforms, including a ban on assault weapons.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Statement attributable to the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General – on the situation in Lebanon and Israel

    Source: United Nations

    The Secretary-General is gravely alarmed by the escalating situation along the Blue Line and the large number of civilian casualties, including children and women, being reported by the Lebanese authorities, as well as thousands of displaced persons, amidst the most intense Israeli bombing campaign since last October.  The Secretary-General is also gravely alarmed by the continued strikes by Hizbullah into Israel.  He expresses grave concern for the safety of civilians on both sides of the Blue Line, including UN personnel, and strongly condemns the loss of lives.

    The Secretary-General notes the ongoing efforts by UNSCOL and UNIFIL to reduce tensions and reiterates the urgent need for an immediate de-escalation and that all efforts be devoted to a diplomatic solution.

    The Secretary-General reiterates his call for all parties to protect civilians and civilian infrastructure and ensure they are not put in harm’s way.          

    He also reminds all actors of their responsibility to ensure the safety and security of all UN personnel and assets.  

    The Secretary-General urges the parties to recommit to the full implementation of Security Council resolution 1701 (2006) and immediately return to a cessation of hostilities to restore stability. 

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Province Partners with Rick Hansen Foundation for Accessibility Training

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on September 23, 2024

    The Government of Saskatchewan is partnering with the Rick Hansen Foundation to deliver education and training on accessibility to public sector bodies and government employees, investing up to $160,000 as announced in the 2024-25 provincial budget. 

    “Our government is dedicated to fostering strong, inclusive communities and securing a brighter future by removing barriers that limit the full participation of individuals with disabilities,” Social Services Minister Gene Makowsky said. “Through our partnership with the Rick Hansen Foundation, we will raise awareness in the public sector and work to identify and address accessibility challenges.”

    The Accessible Saskatchewan Act and regulations, which came into effect on December 3, 2023, designate certain organizations as public sector bodies. Public sector bodies are organizations funded by the Government of Saskatchewan that provide or oversee services for citizens. Under the Act, government is also moving forward with its accessibility plan, which will be publicly posted by December 3, 2024.

    The Rick Hansen Foundation is committed to improving accessibility and inclusion for persons with disabilities by raising awareness, dismantling barriers, and promoting universal access. Through accessibility ratings, educational initiatives, and advocacy, the Foundation strives to create a society where people of all ages and abilities can fully participate.

    “We are pleased to partner with the Government of Saskatchewan’s Ministry of Social Services and grateful for their continued leadership and commitment to improving accessibility in the province through accessibility training,” Rick Hansen Foundation CEO Doramy Ehling said. “With almost 30 per cent of people in Saskatchewan identifying as having a disability and our aging population, the need to ensure our communities are barrier-free is more important than ever. Education is key to changing design culture and this funding will go a long way toward empowering change.”

    For more information about The Accessible Saskatchewan Act and related regulations, visit the Accessible Saskatchewan website.

    -30-

    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Luzerne County, PA FLIPS RED

    Source: US National Republican Congressional Committee

    The following text contains opinion that is not, or not necessarily, that of MIL-OSI –

    September 23, 2024

    Luzerne County, Pennsylvania — one of the swingiest counties in Pennsylvania and in the heart of toss-up Matt Cartwright’s district— just FLIPPED RED.

    Luzerne County Voter Registration by the Numbers:

    2016: Democrats + 33,317
    2020: Democrats + 18,992
    2024: Republicans + 83 

    “Pennsylvania’s eighth congressional district is a battleground within a battleground, and it’s crystal clear that Pennsylvania voters are rejecting extreme Democrats’ failed policies. Congressman Cartwright is shaking in his boots knowing he’s too far left for Northeast Pennsylvania and that Luzerne County is ground zero for Republicans to flip this seat red.” — NRCC Spokesman Mike Marinella

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: DHS Announces $279.9 million in Grant Funding for the Fiscal Year 2024 State and Local Cybersecurity Grant Program

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: DHS Announces $279.9 million in Grant Funding for the Fiscal Year 2024 State and Local Cybersecurity Grant Program

    DHS Announces $279.9 million in Grant Funding for the Fiscal Year 2024 State and Local Cybersecurity Grant Program

    WASHINGTON – Today, the Department of Homeland Security announced the availability of $279.9 million in grant funding for the Fiscal Year (FY) 2024 State and Local Cybersecurity Grant Program (SLCGP). Now in its third year, this program provides funding to state, local, and territorial (SLT) governments to help reduce cyber risk and build resilience against evolving cybersecurity threats. Established by the State and Local Cybersecurity Improvement Act, and part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the SLCGP provides approximately $1 billion in funding over four years to support SLT governments as they develop capabilities to detect, protect against, and respond to cyber threats.  

    “In the modern threat landscape, every community can — and too often does — face sophisticated cyberattacks on vital systems like hospitals, schools, and electrical grids,” said Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas. “The Department of Homeland Security’s State and Local Cybersecurity Grant Program empowers key intergovernmental partners with the tools and support necessary to increase resilience and better secure critical infrastructure. Our message to communities everywhere is simple: do not underestimate the reach or ruthlessness of nefarious cyber actors — apply for State and Local Cybersecurity Grant Program funding today.” 

    The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) jointly administer this program. CISA provides expertise and guidance on cybersecurity issues while FEMA manages the grant award and allocation process. Award recipients may use funding for a wide range of cybersecurity improvements and capabilities, including cybersecurity planning and exercising, hiring cyber personnel, and improving the services that citizens rely on daily. 

    “These cyber grants are an investment in the security of our nation’s infrastructure, helping to ensure that communities across the country have the tools they need to defend against cyberattacks,” said CISA Director Jen Easterly. “CISA is proud to offer the SLCGP, helping governments lay a solid foundation for building a sustainable and resilient cybersecurity program for the future.”  

    “FEMA is committed to helping our partners address and withstand cybersecurity threats to both infrastructure and systems,” said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. “Thanks to funding from the Biden-Harris Administration, state, local, tribal and territorial governments will be able to build their capacity to better protect themselves from evolving cyber threats.” 

    Eligible entities have from Sept. 23 until Tuesday, Dec. 3, 2024 at 5 p.m. ET to apply for funds, via FEMA GO. For more information and helpful resources on the State and Local Cybersecurity Grant Program, visit CISA’s webpage: cisa.gov/cybergrants.  

    erika.suzuki

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Statement attributable to the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General – on the situation in Lebanon and Israel

    Source: United Nations – English

    he Secretary-General is gravely alarmed by the escalating situation along the Blue Line and the large number of civilian casualties, including children and women, being reported by the Lebanese authorities, as well as thousands of displaced persons, amidst the most intense Israeli bombing campaign since last October.  The Secretary-General is also gravely alarmed by the continued strikes by Hizbullah into Israel.  He expresses grave concern for the safety of civilians on both sides of the Blue Line, including UN personnel, and strongly condemns the loss of lives.

    The Secretary-General notes the ongoing efforts by UNSCOL and UNIFIL to reduce tensions and reiterates the urgent need for an immediate de-escalation and that all efforts be devoted to a diplomatic solution.

    The Secretary-General reiterates his call for all parties to protect civilians and civilian infrastructure and ensure they are not put in harm’s way.          

    He also reminds all actors of their responsibility to ensure the safety and security of all UN personnel and assets.  

    The Secretary-General urges the parties to recommit to the full implementation of Security Council resolution 1701 (2006) and immediately return to a cessation of hostilities to restore stability. 

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI USA: New poll: Nick Begich takes the lead over Mary Peltola

    Source: US National Republican Congressional Committee

    The following text contains opinion that is not, or not necessarily, that of MIL-OSI –

    September 23, 2024

    A new poll found Nick Begich surging into the lead against Democrat Mary Peltola. Begich leads Peltola by four points on the first-choice ballot, maintaining his lead in subsequent rounds.

    Fueling the momentum is Democrat Peltola’s plummeting favorability: “In summary, the more voters learn about Peltola’s record, the less they like. Mary Peltola is taking on water despite her initial spending advantage, driven in large part by Republican ads highlighting her support for the Biden agenda and votes against Alaska’s veterans and those actively serving in uniform.” Read the full memo here.

    “Alaskans fed up with Democrat Mary Peltola voting for the Biden-Harris agenda and against veterans and military troops are choosing Nick Begich.” – NRCC Spokesperson Ben Petersen

    In case you missed it…

    POLITICO Playbook: First in Playbook I
    POLITICO
    Rachel Bade, Eugene Daniels and Ryan Lizza
    September 23, 2024

    FIRST IN PLAYBOOK I — A new NRCC poll has serious warning signs for Democratic Rep. MARY PELTOLA in Alaska: Republican NICK BEGICH leads her 44 percent to 40 percent on the first-round ballot, and would clinch victory after redistribution of ranked-choice votes in the GOP survey. They find Peltola’s favorability declining as voters increasingly hear more negative information about her. The polling memo

    Read more here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: Statement from Vice President Harris on Record Declines in  Crime

    Source: The White House

    Every American in every community should have the freedom to live safe from violence, harm, and fear. Yet before President Biden and I took office, too many families were experiencing crime as our nation witnessed the highest increase in murders in recent history. That is why we immediately got to work to get our counties, cities, and local police departments the resources they need.
     
    As a former District Attorney who prosecuted homicide cases, I was proud to walk into the U.S. Senate and cast the tie-breaking vote on the largest ever federal investment in fighting and preventing crime. Our American Rescue Plan – that every single Republican in Congress voted against – helped deliver over $15 billion to cities and states to fund public safety and violence prevention strategies, hiring and keeping police officers on the beat while investing in community violence intervention and taking other critical steps to keep our families safe. As someone who got illegal firearms off the streets as Attorney General of California, I also worked alongside President Biden to enact the most significant gun safety legislation in nearly 30 years – expanding background checks, investing in mental health supports in our schools, and helping states implement red flag laws. 
     
    Today’s new data submitted to the FBI confirms that our dedicated efforts and collaborative partnerships with law enforcement are working; Americans are safer now than when we took office. Last year, we saw the largest ever one-year decrease in the homicide rate, which now stands 16 percent below its 2020 level. Violent crime is at a near 50-year low. Our progress is continuing this year and builds on substantial decreases during the previous years of our administration.
     
    While we have made great progress, we are not stopping now. I am committed to continuing our work to support local law enforcement, invest in proven crime prevention and community violence intervention, and address gun violence with commonsense gun safety laws. As a former courtroom prosecutor who took on perpetrators of all kinds, I will always work with anyone, anywhere, anytime to keep our children, families, and communities safe.

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Secretary-General’s remarks to High-Level Side Event: Ways to Include Women in the Future of Afghanistan [as delivered]

    Source: United Nations – English

    he women and girls of Afghanistan face a deep crisis of gender-based discrimination and oppression.

    The new law enacted last month formalized the systematic erasure of women and girls from public life.

    Afghan women and girls are largely confined to their homes, with no freedom of movement and almost no access to education or work.

    They are even banned from singing or raising their voices in public.

    The law is the latest in a series of edicts and decrees that strip Afghan women and girls of their rights and freedoms across the board.

    At the same time, Afghan women suffer high rates of gender-based violence, so-called honour killings, and rising maternal mortality.

    They have told the United Nations that they feel unsafe, isolated and powerless as they lose the ability to provide for their families or contribute to their communities.  

    Many Afghan women speak of losing hope and living like shadows, moving around silently in the darkness, and always fearing punishment.

    Dear friends,

    Extreme gender-based discrimination is not only a systematic abuse of women and girls and a violation of human rights conventions and laws.

    It is self-harm on a national scale.

    It completely undermines the de facto authorities’ stated objective of economic self-reliance.

    Educating girls is one of the fastest ways to kick-start economic development and improve the health, wellbeing and prosperity of communities and entire societies.

    Women’s participation and leadership has proven benefits for peace and security, social protection, environmental stability and more. 

    Afghanistan faces serious challenges in all these areas.

    Without educated women, without women in employment, including in leadership roles, and without recognizing the rights and freedoms of one-half of its population, Afghanistan will never take its rightful place on the global stage.
     
    Countries and organizations around the world, including the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, have called strongly for respect for the fundamental rights of Afghan girls and women.

    I join them in demanding that the de facto authorities remove all discriminatory restrictions against women and girls immediately, and reopen schools and universities to girls beyond grade six.

    Dear friends,

    The United Nations continues to engage with Afghan women and women’s groups, to preserve the space for them to operate, and to serve as a conduit for dialogue with the de facto authorities.

    Afghan women show remarkable courage in demanding and pursuing their rights, running businesses in difficult conditions, delivering humanitarian aid, and in online campaigns.

    The international community stands in solidarity with them.

    We will continue to amplify the voices of Afghan women and call for them to play a full role in the country’s life, both inside its borders and on the global stage.

    We will never allow gender-based discrimination to become normalized anywhere in the world.

    What is happening in Afghanistan can be compared with some of the most egregious systems of oppression in recent history.

    I thank the Permanent Missions of Ireland, Qatar, Indonesia and Switzerland and the Women’s Forum on Afghanistan for convening these important discussions on how women and girls can play a full role in Afghanistan’s future.

    Thank you.
     

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NSF and philanthropic partners invest more than $18M to prioritize ethical and societal considerations in the creation of emerging technologies

    Source: US Government research organizations

    Awardees will contribute to the responsible advancement of emerging technologies to promote the public’s well-being and mitigate potential harms

    The U.S. National Science Foundation announced an inaugural investment of more than $18 million to 44 multidisciplinary, multi-sector teams across the U.S. through the NSF Responsible Design, Development and Deployment of Technologies (NSF ReDDDoT) program. NSF ReDDDoT invests in the creation of technologies that promote the public’s well-being and mitigate potential harms by seeking to ensure that ethical, legal, community and societal considerations are embedded in the lifecycle of technology’s creation and use. NSF launched this program in collaboration with leading philanthropic partners including the Ford Foundation, the Patrick J. McGovern Foundation and Siegel Family Endowment.

    “NSF is committed to creating mutually beneficial research collaborations among diverse partners who contribute their expertise and resources to accelerating technology innovation that positively addresses pressing national, societal and geostrategic challenges,” said Erwin Gianchandani, assistant director for Technology, Innovation and Partnerships. “Through a robust public-private partnership with philanthropies, NSF’s investment in ReDDDoT aims to ensure that TIP advances the design, development and deployment of new technologies responsibly. This investment is consistent with the ‘CHIPS and Science Act of 2022,’ in which Congress called upon TIP to invest in exactly this approach when pursuing the key technology areas listed in that law.”

    NSF awarded 30 teams Phase 1 funding: 21 teams will receive planning grants of up to $300,000 each for up to two years to facilitate collaborative transdisciplinary and multi-sector activities to plan for submission of larger proposals, while an additional nine teams will receive Phase 1 funding of up to $75,000 each to plan and host workshops designed to raise awareness and identify relevant approaches and needs in the key technology areas identified in the “CHIPS and Science Act of 2022.”

    Additionally, NSF awarded Phase 2 funding to 14 teams that demonstrated maturity in artificial intelligence, biotechnology, or natural and anthropogenic disaster prevention or mitigation, key technology areas in the statute that TIP emphasized for ReDDDoT funding. Each Phase 2 team will receive up to $1.5 million over three years to expand upon their identified experience in use-inspired and translational activities in responsible design, development and deployment of innovative technology.

    The ReDDDoT program invited proposals from teams that examined and demonstrated the principles, methodologies and impacts associated with ethical, legal, community and societal considerations of technology’s creation and use, especially those specified in the “CHIPS and Science Act of 2022.”NSF anticipates issuing a second ReDDDoT funding opportunity in the future that will build on this round of funding to ensure ethical, legal, community, and societal considerations are embedded in the lifecycle of technology’s creation.

    NSF ReDDDot Awardees

    Awardees are grouped by award type and then listed in alphabetical order by organization. The full award list can be found on NSF Award Search webpage.

    Planning grants:

    • Carnegie Mellon University: Responsible AI Across the Transportation Sector (NSF award 2427699).
    • Case Western Reserve University: Designing a Responsible AI-enabled Digital Service Ecosystem in Finance and Healthcare (NSF award 2427505).
    • Data & Society: Assessing Environmental Impacts of AI Through Participatory Methods (NSF award 2427700).
    • DePaul University: AI-Enabled Support Services for Transplanted Populations: A Community-Centered Design and Development Approach (NSF award 2427713).
    • Georgetown University: Piloting a Framework to Measure the Impacts of Artificial Intelligence Tools for Government Agencies (NSF award 2427748).
    • Harvard Medical School: Piloting an Impact Accelerator Model for Cultivating Equity and Ethics in Genetics Innovation (NSF award 2427533).
    • Michigan State University: Supporting Culturally Centered Artificial Intelligence Literacy through Community-Engaged Partnerships (NSF award 2427697).
    • New York University: Collaborative award: AI Summer Institute on Communities (NSF award 2427677).
    • North Central College: Collaborative award: AI Summer Institute on Communities (NSF award 2427678).
    • Northeastern University: An AI toolkit for Designing Inclusive Digital Activities for Older Adults (NSF award 2427714).
    • Pennsylvania State University: Prioritization of Housing & Behavioral Health Services to Individuals and Families (NSF award 2427737).
    • Rutgers University: Writing Education through Design-Oriented AI (NSF award 2427646).
    • TERC Inc.: Alternative Systems for Human Waste Management (NSF award 2427679).
    • Texas Tech University: Building Community-Driven Resilience and Empowerment through Adaptive Manufacturing Technologies (NSF award 2427747).
    • University of Akron: Materials Advancement through a Precede-Proceed framework for Safety (NSF award 2427693).
    • University of California Santa Cruz: Destigmatizing Disfluencies in Speech AI with Grassroots Stuttering Communities (NSF award 2427710).
    • University of Florida: Treatment Technologies for Phosphorus Mitigation (NSF award 2427542).
    • University of Michigan: Bridging Past and Future: Fostering Community-Researcher Synergy through Planning NSF award 2427332).
    • University of Wisconsin: Novel Cellular Technologies in Ecosystem Preservation: Ethics, Data Sovereignty and Implementation (NSF award 2427636).
    • Vanderbilt University: Towards Responsible Design, Development, and Deployment of a GenAI-Enabled System for Dispatcher Training in Emergency Response (NSF award 2427711).
    • Virginia Tech: Facilitating Responsible, Ethical, and Explainable Ergonomic Exposure Assessments When Using Artificial Intelligence Methods (NSF award 2427599).

    Workshops: 

    • Arizona State University: Indigenous Approaches to Computational Futures (NSF award 2427641).
    • Association of Science-Technology Centers: Exploring Roles of Science and Technology Centers and Museums in Facilitating Public Collaboration in Artificial Intelligence (NSF award 2427449).
    • Case Western Reserve University: Employing Public Interest Technologies to Promote Access in Education and Employment for People who have Physical Disabilities (NSF award 2427587).
    • Michigan State University: Generative AI Ethics Module Design Sprint for STEM Educators (NSF award 2427666).
    • Texas A&M University: Artificial Intelligence and Biosecurity: Technologies and Policy Options to Leverage Opportunities and Mitigate Risks (NSF award 2427760).
    • UC Berkeley: Workshop Towards the Promise of Open-Source AI Models – A Workshop to Co-Create a Vision for Responsibility and Corresponding Research Roadmap (NSF award 2427618).
    • UCLA: Responsible Quantum Innovation (NSF award 2427775).
    • University of California, Davis: Responsible Artificial Intelligence to Promote Sustainability, Climate Resilience, and Equitable Access to Healthy Food in US Food Systems (NSF award 2427769).
    • Virginia Tech: Situating Network Infrastructure with People, Practices, and Beyond (NSF award 2427606).

    Phase 2:

    • Columbia University: Collaborative award: Enabling Participatory Privacy Protections for AI Training Data (NSF award 2429841).
    • Columbia University: Leveraging Urban AI as a Communal Tool for Connection and Exchange in Harlem (NSF award 2429672).
    • Development Gateway: The Digital Governance Design Project (NSF award 2429815).
    • Fred Hutchison Cancer Center: Collaborative award: Enabling Participatory Privacy Protections for AI Training Data (NSF award 2429840).
    • Georgetown University: Collaborative award: Enabling Participatory Privacy Protections for AI Training Data NSF award 2429838).
    • Indiana University: Collaborative award: Inclusive American Language Technologies (NSF award 2429338).
    • Iowa State University: Empowering Resilience: Innovations in Rural Electric Network Disaster Preparedness and Response (NSF award 2429602).
    • Louisiana State University: Climate-Informed Flood Risk Mitigation Sandbox (NSF award 2429888).
    • Michigan State University: Collaborative award: A User-Centered Platform for Digital Content Integrity (NSF award 2429836).
    • Mozilla Foundation: Collaborative award: Inclusive American Language Technologies (NSF award 2429337).
    • Rice University: Responsible Multi-Modal AI Systems for Multi-Hazard Resilience and Situational Awareness (NSF award 2429680).
    • Rochester Institute of Technology: Collaborative award: A User-Centered Platform for Digital Content Integrity (NSF award 2429835).
    • The University of Mississippi: Collaborative award: A User-Centered Platform for Digital Content Integrity (NSF award 2429837).
    • University of Maryland: Collaborative award: Enabling Participatory Privacy Protections for AI Training Data (NSF award 2429839).

    About NSF ReDDDoT

    The NSF ReDDDoT program is a collaboration with philanthropic partners and crosses all disciplines of science and engineering. The program seeks to ensure ethical, legal, community and societal considerations are embedded in the lifecycle of technology’s creation and use. The program supports research, implementation and education projects involving multi-sector teams that focus on the responsible design, development or deployment of technologies.

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